CHH. SAMBHAJI NAGAR

Aurangzeb, the Mughal Emperor, lived in Aurangabad. One day, while walking in his palace gardens, Aurangzeb saw a group of pariya (fairies) relaxing by a peaceful lake. Enchanted by their beauty and the tranquil surroundings, the Emperor decided to build a magnificent lake to rival the one he had seen.

Aurangzeb summoned his best architects and engineers and tasked them with creating a lake fit for fairies. They worked tirelessly, using the finest materials and most intricate methods to build a masterpiece reflecting the Emperor's vision. As the lake was constructed, it became clear it was no ordinary body of water. The architects designed a unique water management system to maintain the lake's water levels throughout the year, even during droughts.

After the lake was completed, Aurangzeb invited the fairies to bathe in its crystal-clear waters. To his delight, the fairies accepted and began frequenting the lake, dazzling onlookers with their dance. The people of Aurangabad were amazed by the lake's beauty and the fairies that lived there. They named it the "Pariyon Ka Talab," or "Lake of Fairies," and it quickly became a beloved landmark in the city.

The ancient city of Paithan, situated on the banks of the Godavari River, was home to a family of master weavers renowned for their exceptional artistry and craftsmanship. For generations, they had honed their skills, weaving the most magnificent materials fit for their rajas.

The Paithani, a majestic and opulent sari considered suitable for the devis, was central to their trade. The weavers would spend months, if not years, meticulously constructing each Paithani, their skilled fingers moving across the loom, coaxing the silk and gold threads into exquisite patterns that appeared to come alive on the fabric.

One day, as the family's eldest son worked on a particularly elaborate Paithani, he observed a strange glow emanating from the threads. Intrigued, he drew closer and was surprised to discover that the threads were alive, shimmering and throbbing with an alien energy. The young weaver jumped back, startled, but as he did, he heard a gentle and harmonious voice murmur in his ear, "Do not be afraid, Paithan's child. The threads you weave capture the soul of our region, the beauty and enchantment that have been passed down through generations."

The weaver looked around but saw no one. "Who are you?" he said, his voice wavering.

"I am the spirit of Paithan," the voice said, "and I have chosen you to protect our precious Paithani. For the history of our people has been tied into these threads, and it is your responsibility to help ensure that this tradition continues." From that day forward, the young weaver worked with increased purpose, immersing his heart and soul into each Paithani he made. The colors became more brilliant, the designs more intricate, and the threads appeared to move with their life force.