Indian Recepies & Travel Blog - Vankipuram, Gods Country

All about Sesame

noreply@blogger.com (lakshmi narsimhan) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 23:35:00 +0000

This has found its place in a mantra and so needless to say how important it is! Open sesame!

We are talking about our own sesame (ellu in tamil, till in hindi) – the seed that flavors Indian cuisine. In olden days when the fashionable sunflower oil or olive oil was little known, sesame oil and coconut oil where the oils primarily used for South Indian cooking. Why even today, cold pressed sesame oil remains the most preferred oil among many south Indians. Interestingly, in Tamil sesame oil is called “nallennai” which means “the good oil”. Nothing beats the combination of idli podi and sesame oil. Sesame seeds are also roasted and consumed – mixed with jaggery and shaped into little spheres, it makes the perfect “ellu urundai”. I do not know if the flower has any significance, except in one old Tamil song, where the heroine’s nose is compared to the beauty of sesame flower.

Studies show that sesame seed oil is a powerful antioxidant. In the tissues below the skin, it neutralizes oxygen free radicals. It penetrates into the skin quickly and enters the blood stream through capillaries. This helps maintain good cholesterol and a lower bad cholesterol.

Sesame oil is also known to reduce body heat upon external application – it is still a custom to take sesame oil bath once a week. Where to get in Chennai: Organic coldpressed sesame oil and sesame are available at Dhanyam organic super store.

For more information, please call 044-28157654 or email to info@dhanyam.in. Now you can buy organic groceries and vegetables online at http://www.dhanyam.in/onlinestore

Farm Produced Food Grains in India

noreply@blogger.com (lakshmi narsimhan) — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 06:50:00 +0000

There is an alarming scenario that is haunting the Indian Agriculture sector in production of food grains. According to the survey, 70% of the goods are transported by roadways and most of the rest through railways, then procured and stored in the cold storage and supplied to the retail stores like Walmart, Tesco, Metro and Carrefour apart from the Single-brand retail stores. Read the ehole story by click on the image below.

Do you agree that the future of farmers and food producers in India is at stake?

Treat for Indian Eyes

noreply@blogger.com (lakshmi narsimhan) — Sat, 01 Oct 2011 02:55:00 +0000

What is the time value of Money? Right, its the value that your money holds during a certain time. Numismatics is my hobby. Having said that, here is the display of my collection that I collected from my school days.

These coins are starting from 14th Centuary AD to till date that are used in India, Nepal and Pakistan.

These Coins are usually metal or a metallic material and sometimes made of synthetic materials, usually in the shape of a disc, and most often issued by a King or a Democratic government.

Coins are used as a form of money in transactions of various kinds, from the everyday circulation coins to the storage of large numbers of bullion coins.

Historically, a great number of coinage metals (including alloys) and other materials have been used practically, artistically, and experimentally in the production of coins for circulation, collection, and metal investment, where bullion coins often serve as more convenient stores of assured metal quantity and purity than other bullion.

These coins lose their value as the time passes by but their value is still high for the hobbyists.
Happy Hobby of Collecting Coins!

Parkour - Yasaswy Modukuru

noreply@blogger.com (lakshmi narsimhan) — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 02:54:00 +0000

Parkour (sometimes abbreviated PK) is a way of conditioning the body and the mind by learning how to overcome physical obstacles with speed and efficiency.

My nephew Yasaswy does Parkour with a great deal of passion. Today, I am thrilled by reading his article that appeared on The Hindu - Daily news paper of India.

This is an art originally developed in France, the main purpose of the non-competitive sport is to teach participants how to adapt their movements to their environment by vaulting, rolling, running, jumping, and a combination of agility and speed. Using their surroundings to their advantage, traceurs (parkour practitioners) train to be able to identify and utilize alternate or more efficient paths. Parkour can be practiced anywhere, but areas dense with obstacles offer many different training opportunities.

More Tongue Twister Rhymes for All

noreply@blogger.com (lakshmi narsimhan) — Sun, 26 Jun 2011 02:16:00 +0000

Dear readers. Keep the books aside and watch these tongue twisters videos like the Fox in socks from my earlier post:

Here are few more...

Cat in the Hat by Dr. Seuss:

Green Egg and a Ham by Dr. Seuss:

Love you All...

Sri Rama Temple - Mathuranthakam Vadaithi Utsavam 2011

noreply@blogger.com (lakshmi narsimhan) — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 10:54:00 +0000

It is the final day of Brahmotsavam at Madhuranthakam called Vadaithi at Sri Rama Temple in Mathuranthakam 75km from Chennai on the NH47. As I mentioned in my previous visits on my blog posts such as Vadaithi 2006, Vadaithi 2007, Vadaithi 2008 and Vadaithi 2009. But, I forgot to add Vadaithi 2010 pics.

However, I take a pleasure in this post adding a picture taken during Vadaithi Festival in Maduranthakam in 2010 and a picture during this year's occasion as on 21 June this year, 2011.

Feel the Feelings

noreply@blogger.com (lakshmi narsimhan) — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 06:57:00 +0000

This short video will tell you a few facts that many of us ignore. It is all about Meditation, finding inner peace and the power of visualization. Check it out and implement for the people around you, your family, friends, near and dear ones etc.

Thirukkovalur Brahmotsavam Schedule

noreply@blogger.com (lakshmi narsimhan) — Wed, 09 Mar 2011 08:49:00 +0000

It is time for Thirukkovalur Brahma-Utsavam in Thirukkovalur Temple and here is the schedule - March 10-23 - 2011. Below are the further details:

ThirukkOvalUr (also known as ThirukkOyilUr) is located 200 kilometers southwest of Chennai. The VaishNavaite temple in this town is called called TrivikramaswAmy (ulagaLandha PerumAL) temple. Its age has been recognized as dating to the early 10th century at which time it was a brick and mortar structure. During the reign of Rajendra sOzhan (11th century) granite structures were built.

Festivals: The annual Brahmotsavam is celebrated in the month of panguni (Mar-Apr) for 15 days. In addition, other festivals are mAsi makam (in Feb-Mar), pavitrOtsavam in Sep-Oct. Rama navami is celebrated usually in April, and tiruvADippUram (Jul-Aug) --ANDAL’s birthday—is another important festival.MangaLAsAsanam: This temple is claimed to be the very first one to be sung by the AzhwArs. PoigaiyAzhwAr (2 pAsurams), BhUdattAzhwAr (1 pAsuram), and ThirumangaiyAzhwAr (18 pAsurams) have sung about this temple. Let us look at one pAsuram by ThirumangaiyAzhwAr.

மஞ்சாடு வரையேழும் கடல்களேழும் வானகமும் மண்ணகமும் மற்றும் எல்லாம் எஞ்சாமல் வயிற்றடக்கி ஆலின்மேல் ஓரிளந்தளிரில் ண்வளர்ந்த ஈசன் தன்னை துஞ்சாநீர்வளம் சுரக்கும் பெண்ணைத் தென்பால் தூயநான்மறையாளர் சோமுச் செய்ய செஞ்சாலி விளைவயலுள் திகழந்து தோன்றும் திருக்கோவலூர் அதனுள் கண்டேன் நானே.

AzhwAr says: “The lord who kept the seven hills which rise up to the clouds, the seven seas, the heavens and the earth in his abdomen and then slept on the banyan leaf was witnessed by me in ThirukkOvalUr wherein the river “tenpeNNai” flows to the brim of its banks, where the Vedic scholars recite the Vedas, and where the paddy fields are so fertile”.

PerumAl: ThirukkOvalUr is associated with VAmana/Trivikrama avatars of Vishnu. PadmapurANam and BrahmANDapurANam mention this episode of Vishnu taking the form of a short-statured Brahmin seeking three steps of land from the demon-king MahAbali and subsequently changing the stature to a huge Trivikrama, measuring the earth and heaven with two steps and placing the third step on MahAbali’s head and destroying him. The sage MrikaND wanted to see the viswarUpam of Trivikrama and did immense penance. The lord obliged and he got the darshan. It is also believed that the first three AzhwArs (PoygaiyAzhwAr, BhUdattAzhwAr, and PEyAzhwAr) had an encounter with the Lord at this place. They visited this shrine and got caught on a stormy night. PoygaiyAzhwAr first sought shelter in MrikaND’s hermitage who directed PoygaiyAzhwAr to an ante-room wherein there was just enough space for him to lie down (oruvar paDukkalAm). Then BhUdattAzhwAr came knocking on the door. PoygaiyAzhwAr let him in saying two people can sit in that space (iruvar irukkalAm). Finally PEyAzhwAr sought shelter too and three of them had to stand to be accommodated (mUvar niRkalAm). Soon they were being crowded by another person. They noticed a shining light and recognized that it was the lord who came into the room to be with them.

Organic Food Part-2

noreply@blogger.com (lakshmi narsimhan) — Thu, 02 Dec 2010 06:46:00 +0000

As I have explored one my friend's Organic Food store in Chennai, here is Birke Baehr who wants us to know how our food is made, where it comes from, and what's in it. At age 11, he's planning a career as an organic farmer. This 11-year-old Boy presents his take on a major source of our food -- far-away and less-than-picturesque industrial farms. Keeping farms out of sight promotes a rosy, unreal picture of big-box agriculture, he argues, as he outlines the case to green and localize food production.

Ayodhya Verdict - Most Awaited

noreply@blogger.com (lakshmi narsimhan) — Fri, 01 Oct 2010 06:04:00 +0000

Ayodhya Verdict may be most awaited by the people in India. The verdict was calm and unexpected. This was a peaceful one soothing communial agitators of both the sides.

Everyone in the world and my dear blog reader, please remember that there is Ali in DeepawALI (Popular Hindu Festival of Lights) and Ram in RAMzan (Muslims one and only festival of fasting). Mix-n-match, Friendly, Lovable, blah blah blah...

People should know that when you love others and care for others you get the same from them. So, Enjoy and make this planet a peaceful one. Learn as if you were to die tomorrow, Live as if you were to live forever.

ENJOY!

Organic Food Store in Chennai

noreply@blogger.com (lakshmi narsimhan) — Sat, 14 Aug 2010 08:53:00 +0000

Most Indians would love to buy all organic if they really know about it. Sure, our readers probably do prefer organic food, but a surprising number of people don’t see any benefit to organics and might even prefer conventional food.

There is this article on Economic Times that reads ... "A software engineer and an IIM graduate, Madhusoodhanan K gaveup his plush corporate job to work with farmers across the country. His new organic store has just opened its doors to the Chennai city. Also, this really had opened my eyes.

Furthermore, Madhu's store is stocked with organic bags manufactured by women self-help groups near Pondicherry, and little terracotta horses and bells, baked to precision. Seems that this store also has organic rice from Thanjavur, jaggery and sugar from Mysore, ghee from Ahmedabad and so on. Are people ready to paymore for organic food?

I am sure Consumers of Organic Food will surely pick up in very fast pace. BTW, I shall check the Shop in T.Nagar today!

Thirukadaiyur - 9th Wonder of the World

noreply@blogger.com (lakshmi narsimhan) — Sun, 04 Apr 2010 13:20:00 +0000

That's right! Thirukadaiyur -must be a 9th Wonder of the World. B'cos it is dedicated to the couple. Similar to the 8th wonder - Taj Mahal.

Thirukadaiyur Temple is a massive construction by the ancient kings in Southern part of India is around 300 KMs away from Chennai.

This place is famous for Celebrations of the kind known as Sastabdhaporthy (60th birthday of the groom) and Sathabhishekam (80th birthday) .

This temple has a Swambhu Shiva lingam. There are decent hotels nearby and a very pleasant climate in the mornings and evenings.

Check it out to experience the place!

Vaikunta Ekadashi - Margali Masam

noreply@blogger.com (lakshmi narsimhan) — Sun, 27 Dec 2009 16:18:00 +0000

It is the festival during December every year called Margali Masam, famously known as month of festivals. Margali is a Tamil month. Margali month comes after Karthikai and before Thai which is the harvest season.

Most of the seasons in Tamil Nadu, are not as enchanting as it is from October to the end of December every year. It starts right from the Puratasi Masam which is auspicious for lord venkateswara, then starts the Karthigai auspicious for lord ayyapa, then starts the Margali masam where in almost each and every Hindu family is pro-active, singing bajans along the streets in the cool morning climate, temple opens up early in the morning, people are busy putting kolam in front of their houses, there are a plenty of stage shows and Carnitic music and Kuchepudi and Bharthanatyam concerts in almost every auditorium in Chennai.

Vaigunda Ekadasi Utsavam

Every year this festival is witnessed in three, most important and only Vishnava Piligrimages in India:

This is Vaigunda Ekadasi Utsavam falls on 28th of December 2009 is celebrated throughout the world. Here is a video on Vaikunta Ekadasi during 2007 in Utah.

Navarathri Festival Dassara

noreply@blogger.com (lakshmi narsimhan) — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 06:36:00 +0000

Navaratri festival means nine nights, is a famous festival celebrated by Hindus around the globe in the honor of devine goddess Durga. This festival is celebrated for ten days.

Navaratri is celebrated in the lunar month of Ashwin (usually in September or October) from the Shukla Paksha Pratipada (the next of the New moon day of Bhadrapada) to the Vijaya

Dashami or the tenth day of Ashwin. The first day of Aashwin of the bright fortnight is a festival that symbolizes the nine days of battle with asuras/rakshas (demons), while the tenth day named Vijayadashami means the victorious tenth day. It is considered the Godess Durga won the battle against the demons. The 9th day of Navaratri is one celebrated for Goddess Saraswathi (Goddess of knowledge).

Though all the days are celebrated with special poojas everywhere, from Calcutta (Eastern India) to Gujrat (Western India) and Kashmir to Kanyakumari.

People also celebrate Dussehra with a wide variety of expressions, ranging from worshipping the goddess Durga to exhibiting colorful toys.

Garba is an Indian form of dance that originated in the Gujarat region. Garba is performed during all the 9 nights of Navaratri in Gujarat and rest of the world. Here is a video on the kind of beauty and colors that a Garba dance festival has:

Tirumal Brahmotsavas:
The Brahmotsavam festival is one of the most important and auspicious functions in Tirupati. The Brahmotsava is performed over a nine-day period in the Tamil Month of Purattasi. Tirumala Brahmotsavas complement Navaratri festivals as these fall on the same period.

Swine Flu Influenza

noreply@blogger.com (lakshmi narsimhan) — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 09:03:00 +0000

SWINE FLU Do's and Dont's

Please kindly get to know about H1N1 flu and help stop its spread - help protect, save our near and dear ones.

The spread of swine flu is fast emerging as No 1 healthcare emergency not just in the country but the world over. Despite the issue being in the media for a long time, there continue to be ignorance and mis-information about the disease and how to handle it. Indian Medical Association, Nagpur Centre, has come up with a information dossier on the subject.

Swine Flu Condition and Symptoms
What is H1N1 (swine) flu?
H1N1 (referred to as "swine flu" early on) is a new influenza virus causing illness in people. This new virus was first detected in people in the United States in April 2009. Other countries, including Mexico and Canada, have also reported people sick with this new virus. This virus is spreading from person-to-person, probably in much the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread.

In late March and early April 2009, cases of human infection with swine influenza A (H1N1) viruses were first reported in Southern California and near San Antonio, Texas.

In the beginning it was difficult to predict the effect of this virus on general population. In seasonal flu, there are certain people who are at higher risk of serious flu-related complications. This includes people with 65 years of more age, children below five years, pregnant women, and people of any age with chronic medical conditions.

This virus is contagious but, at this time, it not known how easily the virus spreads between people. The symptoms of H1N1 swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhoea and vomiting associated with H1N1 swine flu. Severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and even deaths have been reported with H1N1 swine flu infection. Like seasonal flu, H1N1 swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic diseases.

In children, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

* Fast breathing or difficulty in breathing
* Bluish or gray skin colour
* Not drinking enough fluids
* Severe or persistent vomiting
* Not waking up or not interacting
* Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
* Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

* Difficulty in breathing or shortness of breath
* Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
* Sudden dizziness
* Confusion
* Severe or persistent vomiting
* Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

How do you catch H1N1 (swine) flu?
Spread of H1N1 (swine) flu can occur in two ways:

H1N1 virus appears to be transmitted the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing by people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

How can someone with the flu infect someone else?

Infected people can infect others right from day one even before they themselves develop any symptoms up to seven or more days after becoming sick. That means that one can pass on the infection to someone else before he/she even knows that he/she is sick, as well as while one is sick.

What can I do to protect myself from getting sick?

There is no vaccine available right now to protect against H1N1 (swine) flu. There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza. Take these everyday steps to protect your health:

* Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

* Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.

* Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.

* Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

* If you get sick with influenza, you should stay at home and not go for work or school and limit contact with others to prevent them from getting infecting by you.

* Reduce the time spent in the crowded settings.

* Improve airflow in the living space by opening the windows and proper ventilation.

* Practice good health habits including adequate sleep, eating nutritious food, and keeping physically active.

How long can influenza virus remain viable on objects (such as books and doorknobs)?

Studies have shown that influenza virus can survive on environmental surfaces and can infect a person for up to 2-8 hours after being deposited on the surface.
Germs can be spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth. Droplets

from a cough or sneeze of an infected person move through the air. Germs can be spread when a person touches respiratory droplets from another person on a surface like a desk, for example, and then touches his own eyes, mouth or nose before washing hands.

Are there medicines to treat H1N1 (swine) flu?

Yes, use of oseltamivir (brand name Tamiflu?) or zanamivir (brand name Relenza ?) for the treatment and/or prevention of infection with these H1N1 (swine) influenza viruses. Antiviral drugs are prescription medicines (pills, liquid or an inhaler) that fight against the flu by keeping flu viruses from reproducing in your body. If you get sick, antiviral drugs can make your illness milder and make you feel better faster. They may also prevent serious flu complications. For treatment, antiviral drugs work best if started soon after getting sick (within two days of symptoms).

Follow the advice of your local public health department regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other measures to reduce flu transmission. These measures will continue to be important after a novel H1N1 vaccine is available because they can prevent the spread of other viruses that cause respiratory infections.

What should I do if I get sick?

If you live in areas where people have been identified with new H1N1 flu and become ill with influenza-like symptoms, including fever, body aches, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, nausea, or vomiting or diarrhoea, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people, except to seek medical care. If you have severe illness or you are at high risk for flu complications, contact your health care provider or seek medical care. Your health care provider will determine whether flu testing or treatment is needed.

Antiviral drugs may reduce the symptoms and duration of illness, just as they do for seasonal influenza. They also may contribute to preventing severe disease and death. WHO is in touch with public health authorities and clinicians in affected countries and is gathering information about how effective the drugs are.

What about using a mask? What does WHO recommend?

If you are not sick you do not have to wear a mask. If you are caring for a sick person, you can wear a mask when you are in close contact with the ill person and dispose of it immediately after contact, and clean your hands thoroughly afterwards.

If you are sick and have to travel or be around others, cover your mouth and nose.

Using a mask correctly in all situations is essential. Incorrect use actually increases the chance of spreading infection.

How do I know if I have influenza A (H1N1)?

You will not be able to tell the difference between seasonal flu and influenza A (H1N1) without medical help. Typical symptoms to watch for are similar to seasonal viruses and include fever, cough, headache, body aches, sore throat and runny nose. Only your medical practitioner and local health authority can confirm a case of influenza A (H1N1). If they suspect any symptoms they will send your blood sample, throat swab and nasopharyngeal (nose to mouth) for testing to laboratories. Presently this facility is available only at certain specified government laboratories.

Sree Krishna Janmastami

noreply@blogger.com (lakshmi narsimhan) — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 03:17:00 +0000

☆ Sree Krishna Janmastami ☆

This is a festival is observed on the eighth day on Ashtami tithi, of the dark half or Krishna Paksha of the month of Shravana in the Hindu calendar- 13th and 14th of August this year, 2009.

This is an occasion that will be celebrated in all the temples and especially in ISKCON centers spread across the world. I have visited ☆ ISKCON in JR Mathre Road, Juhu, Bombay (Mumbai), ☆ ISKCON - Sri Radha Krishna-Chandra Temple, Hare Krishna Hill, Chord Road, Bangalore (Benguluru) and in ☆ ISKCON in Chennai on ECR road.

Here is a video song track sung by Vikam Hazarika of Art of living which I play the whole day on Sree Krishna Janmastami. I have covered more on this festive occasion in my previous post with a photo in Sree Krishna costume.

Raksha Bandhan

noreply@blogger.com (lakshmi narsimhan) — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 10:08:00 +0000

Raksha Bandhan is the bond of protection in Hindi, Punjabi, Oriya Assamese is a Hindu festival occasion, which celebrates the relationship between brothers and sisters. On this occasion people encompass the warmth shared between the siblings but now it goes way beyond it. Some people tie Rakhi to neighbours and close friends signifying a peaceful co-existence of every individual. Rakhi Utsav was first made understandable by Rabindranath Tagore, a famous Indian poet to promote the feeling of unity and a commitment to the whole society protection and that encourages a harmonious Social life.

Now-a-days, this day has a different view all together! The occasion involves a pledge of life-time practice of moral, cultural and spiritual values. mThe values and the sentiments attached to the rituals of this festival are worth inculcating by the whole huan race, the sentiments of harmony and peaceful coexistence.

Guru's Children got New Sacred Threads!

In South India this festival is also called Janjala Purnima (in Andhra) and Avani Aattam (in Tamil Nadu). People visit to the near by temples and take the blessings from their Gurus and change their Yajnopavita or the sacred thread is worn by the Brahmins. Avani Avittam or Upakramam or Avani Attam is a ritual followed by the Brahmins who read Yajurveda. It is most commonly celebrated in southern states of Tamil Nadu and Kerela, and states of Orissa and Maharashtra. It falls on the Shravan Purnima as on Raksha Bandhan.

Varalakshmi Vratam

noreply@blogger.com (lakshmi narsimhan) — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 11:03:00 +0000

Varalakshmi Vratam:

Varalakshmi Vratam is an important pooja performed by many people in the Indian sub-continent from states like Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka and some parts of Tamil Nadu. The traditional month of Sravanamasam / Aavani is considered to be very auspicious especially for women. Women perform the famous Mangalagouri vratam on Tuesdays and Mahalakshmi puja on Fridays during the month. Varalakshmi Vratam is the most important of festivals of them all.

The vratam will be performed on the Friday before the Full Moon Day or the Poornima day in Sravanamasam. This is a festival to make peace with Shri Varalakshmi (Mahalakshmi ) the wife of Lord Vishnu. This is an auspicious ritual considered to bring wealth to their home.

There are special poojas are observed in Temples of South India. The glory of performing the VARALAKSHMI VRATAM, narrated directly by Lord Shiva Himself, is elaborately discussed in the Skanda Puranam.

Varalakshmi is normally interpreted in two ways. One, Varalakshmi is one who grants desirable state in a family. In another, she is the Goddess who is invited into the home and honored. The different types of benefits that will accrue thanks to performing the Varalakshmi puja are Dhanam (Money), Dhanyam (Gains or Food), Arogyam (Health), Sampatha (Property), Sathsanthanam (Virtuous offspring) and Dheerga Saumangalyam (Longevity of the husband).

Here is a video on Gopikas performing Varalakshmi Puja:

Aeri Katha Ramar Temple

noreply@blogger.com (lakshmi narsimhan) — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 01:57:00 +0000

Sri Kodhanda Ramar Koil, Maduranthakam
It is Vadaithi Vuthsavam at Maduranthakam, once again this year on11th July' 09. This annual occassion is the last day of Brhamotsavam and this vuthsavam is performed to Srinivasa Perumal (Karunakarn), at Sri Kodanda Ramar Koil also known as Aeri Katha Ramar Koil (temple) at Maduranthakam.

This last day is a special day for "Vankipuram family" as per tradition. This is the third consecutive year that the 5th generation (Madhav) of Vankipuram dynasty is witnessing the occasion at Maduranthakam.

Here are my previous posts on this topic as Vadaithi Vuthsavam year 3, year 2 and year 1 covered in this blog. Check the photographs taken on this occasion, during this time.

Akshaya Tritiya

noreply@blogger.com (lakshmi narsimhan) — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 21:15:00 +0000

Akshaya Tritiya: An auspicious occasion celebrated by Hindus. Akshaya Tritiya is the day when Veda Vyaasa and Lord Ganesha are believed to have started writing Mahabharata, has arrived. This is also believed to be the day for investing on Gold and also to kick start something new, like a business to enroll in a course and few other reasons.

Gold on Akshaya Tritiya: Gold is used as money for transacting business from ancient times for its versatility besides being rare. There are typically two main reasons for gold being considered as a good investment option - the profits it fetched as it price increases over a period of time and the fact is that it helps withstand any economic, political and social crisis.

Since gold derives its value from its demand and supply, the price of gold fluctuates with time. During this season, Gold shops are believed to run out of stock and on this day in particular. However we could buy 10 grams as a tradition and performed Lakshmi pooja.

These reasons make Gold as a precious metal was also been prompted by Thomas Fuller, a british writer to say "It is much better to have gold in your hand than in the heart". However as a frequent buyer, I feel that we should have Gold both in hand and in heart :)

Tamil Panguni Uthsavams Temple Rituals

noreply@blogger.com (lakshmi narsimhan) — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 11:34:00 +0000

Panguni Uthsavams
Sri VaishNavAs:: adiyEn namaskArams: Here is the schedule for Panguni Uthsavams. Rituals started from April 4th 2009 Saturday.

There were many scheduled important uthsavams at various divyadesams. AdiyEn requests all devotees in and around the divyadesams to witness and receive the divine blessings of
divyadampathis (sacred couples).

April 4th 2009 Saturday

1) Naachiyaar Koil - Eve: KAL GARUDA SEVAI

April 5th 2009 Sunday

1) Thirup PuLLANI - 7.30 - 9.00 PM THIRU KALYANAM
2) Thiru Kovalur - 9.00 PM : GARUDA SEVAI
3) Sri Rangam - NamperumAL URAIYUR SERTHI sEvai

Apart from the above, PANGUNI BRAHMOTSAVAM is
happening at THIRUVALI - THIUNAGARI divyadesam

April 7th 2009 Tuesday

THIRUVALI - THIRUNAGARI
THIRUMANGAI AZHWAR THIRU VEDUPARI UTHSAVAM

April 8th 2009 Wednesday

SRI RANGAM --- PRANAYA KALAGAM, SERTHI SEVAI
PANGUNI UTTHIRAM , GATHYA THRAYAM GHOSTI

April 9th 2009 Thursday

SRI PARIMALA RENGA NATHAR --- THIRU INDHALUR
MAHA SAMPROKSHANAM

April 10th 2009 Friday

Sri Parthasarathy Swamy - Thiru AllikEni BrahmOtsavam
starts from 10th April 2009 - Friday
12-April-09 (Sunday) - Sri PArthasarathy swamy GARUDA SEVAI

April 20th 2009 Monday

Sri PERUMBUDUR - Srimath RAMANUJAR thiru avathAra mahOtsavam
BEGINS
25-04-09 - Udaiyavar VeLLai sAthupadi
28-04-09 - Thiru thEr
29-04-09 - SAtthumaRai ( THIRUVADHIRAI)

All devotees can participate in the Uthsavams (rituals) held
in nearby divyadesams in large scale and receive the BLESSINGS.

Sri Rama Navami Maduranthakam Ramar Temple

noreply@blogger.com (lakshmi narsimhan) — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 05:17:00 +0000

ஸ்ரீராமநவமிமதுராந்தகம் ராமர் கோயில் - Sri RAAM NAVAMI (Râm-Noimi) Sita Rama Kalyanam Celebrations - LORD RÂMA CHANDRA'S (Wedding Celebrations). Shri Râmas Cosmic Descendence, a dedication to Lord Rama.

This occasion takes place in all temples of Lord Rama including the other temples having Lord Rama's Idol.

Here is the video of Sri Rama Navami with Slokas:

Ramayana is a celebrated epic of Hindu mythology composed by Sage Valmiki. However, there are many sthalas and sthala puranas for each one of Rama Temples in India from Ayodhya to BhadraChala Ramar to Rameshwaram, from North India till down south.

Here in Tamil Nadu, we attended the Celebrations of Sri Rama Navami at Maduranthakam Ramar Koil (Temple) on the Grand Southern Trunk (GST) road on NH-45. As I already covered about the peculiarity of Eri Katha Ramar Koil in my previous posts, written about the only two uthsavaas that happen to the Lord Rama, every year. Lord Rama along with Sita and Lakshmana are said to be swayambhu (self incarnation), holding hand of Sitamma (Janakavalli tayaar).
One occasion celebrated is Vadayithi uthsavam, performed on Lord Karunakaran (also known as Srinivasa Perumal) uthsava Moorhty, on the last day of Madurantaka ramar Brahamotsavas and other is Sri Rama Navami, performed on Lord Rama's uthsava moorhty.

Also, in some parts of the Indian sub-continent, like in Bhadrachalam, Andhra Pradesh, Sita Rama Kalyanam was performed the next day as on 4th of April, because the Navami thithi ends on the 4th Morning.

There are NRIs in the west (UK, USA etc.) who may have to perform on 4th of April that may coincide the occasion. Sometimes I feel that "Two sides of one wall: over there sits yesterday. Here sits tomorrow. So, I call tomorrow to wish the loved ones.

Linga Ashtakam

noreply@blogger.com (lakshmi narsimhan) — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 04:46:00 +0000

Brahma Murari Sura architha Lingam,
Nirmala bashitha Shobitha Lingam,
Janmaja dukha vinasaka lingam.
That pranamami sada shiva lingam.

I bow before that Lingam, which is the eternal Shiva,
Which is worshipped by Brahma, Vishnu and other Devas,
Which is pure and resplendent,
And which destroys sorrows of birth.

Deva Murari pravarchitha Lingam,
Kama dahana Karunakara lingam,
Ravana darpa vinashana lingam,
That pranamami sad shiva lingam.

I bow before that Lingam, which is the eternal Shiva,
Which is worshipped by great sages and devas,
Which destroyed the god of love,
Which showers mercy,
And which destroyed the pride of Ravana.

Sarva sukandhi sulepitha lingam,
Budhi vivarthana karana lingam,
Siddha surasura vandhitha lingam,
That pranamami sada shiva lingam.

I bow before that Lingam, which is the eternal Shiva,
Which is anointed by perfumes,
Which leads to growth of wisdom,
And which is worshipped by sages, devas and asuras.

Kanaka mahamani bhooshitha lingam,.
Panipathi veshtitha shobitha lingam,
Daksha suyagna vinasana lingam,
That pranamami sada shiva lingam.

I bow before that Lingam, which is the eternal Shiva,
Which is ornamented by gold and great jewels,
Which shines with the snake being with it,
And which destroyed the Yagna of Daksha.

Kunkuma chandana lepitha lingam,
Pankaja hara sushobitha lingam,
Sanchitha papa vinasana lingam,
That pranamami sada shiva lingam.

I bow before that Lingam, which is the eternal Shiva,
Which is adorned by sandal paste and saffron,
Which wears the garland of lotus flowers,
And which can destroy accumulated sins.

Deva Ganarchitha sevitha lingam,
Bhavair bakthi pravesa lingam,
Dinakara koti prabhakara lingam,
That pranamami sada shiva lingam.

I bow before that Lingam, which is the eternal Shiva,
Which is served by gods and other beings,
Which is the doorway for devotion and good thought,
And which shines like billions of Suns.

Ashta dalopari veshtitha lingam,
Sarva samudbhava karana lingam,
Ashta daridra vinasana lingam,
That pranamami sada shiva lingam.

I bow before that Lingam, which is the eternal Shiva,
Which is surrounded by eight petals,
Which is the prime reason of all riches,
And which destroys eight types of poverty.

Suraguru sura vara poojitha Lingam,
Sura vana pushpa sadarchitha lingam,
Parathparam paramathmaka lingam,
That pranamai sada shiva lingam.

I bow before that Lingam, which is the eternal Shiva,
Which is worshipped by the teacher of gods,
Which is worshipped by the best of gods,
Which is always worshipped by the flowers,
From the garden of Gods,
Which is the eternal abode,
And which is the ultimate truth.

Lingashtakam, Idam Punyam padeth Shiva Sannidhow,
Shivalokam avapnothi shive na sahamodathe.

Any one who chants the holy octet of the Lingam,
In the holy presence of Lord Shiva,
Would in the end reach the world of Shiva, ,
And keep him company.

Temples in Mayavaram - Mayiladuthurai

noreply@blogger.com (lakshmi narsimhan) — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 10:55:00 +0000

Temples near Mayavaram
Saturday Morning we started from Chennai (Madras), Tamil Nadu travelled towards south of India to cover Shaktipeethas, Navagrahas and few among 108 Divya Desams. It was a pleasant drive towards Mayiladuthurai, also known as Mayavaram that is 280 KMs from Chennai is considered to be an epicenter to all these popular/famous temples in South India. Drive was on Wagonr and Innova cars.

LingAsthakam was all the time in our ears, during the journey. Here, you can listen to Linga Ashtakam, along with the transcript and translation of Linga Astakam. Lingastakam Removes worries of all types and gives peace and tranquillity.

Mayiladuthurai (Tamil: மயிலாடுதுறை, formerly Mayuram or Mayavaram) is a city and a municipality in Nagapattinam district in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The town is located in the historic Thanjavur area on the banks of river Cauvery. Mayiladuthurai is a well known railway junction and the town is well-connected with other major towns in the region, such as Tiruchirappalli, Thanjavur, Kumbakonam and Tiruvarur. Mayiladuthurai is a Lok Sabha constituency.

Sthala Puraanam - Name and significance Legends say that due to a curse, Goddess Parvathi took birth as peacock in Mayuram and worshiped Lord Shiva in his form of Mayuranathar. Mayuram means peacock in Sanskrit and it was later translated as Mayiladuthurai in Tamil language. According to the book Mayiladuthurai Mahaangal (Saints of Mayiladuthurai), several saints lived and attained their final peace (samadhi) in and around Mayiladuthurai. Many siddhars also have lived here. Even today there is a village called Sidharkaadu in the western outskirts of Mayiladuthurai. Legends also tell that it was a part of Tharukavanam.

Temples around Mayiladuthurai

Mayooranathar Temple - The Mayooranathar Temple, also called the 'big temple' is a temple dedicated to Shiva where Thevaram is recited.
Vallalar Temple - Vallalar Temple in the northern bank of river Cauvery is a famous Shiva temple known for its Guru shrine.

Ayyarapper Temple - Ayyarapper Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva is located at the center of the city. ThulA Festival is famous in this temple and it is celebrated in the month of October.

Parimala Ranganathar temple - Parimala Ranganathar temple, the Vishnu temple in Thiru-Indalur suburb is one among the 108 Dhivya Desams.

Gangai konda Cholapuram, a more than 1000 years old temple is just 40Km from mayiladuthurai. It is a must-see historic place.

Navagraha temples are situated around this town. There are many famous temples in Mayiladuthurai's vicinity, most important amongst which is Vaitheeswarankoil. The temple complex is known to house many astrologers employing a method of fortune telling called NADI Jyothidam. The town also has a Medhaa Dakshinamurthi temple.

Other temples of importance include the Sukran Temple and a temple in TirukkaDavUr is dedicated to Lord AmirthakaDEswarar and Goddess Abirami.

One of the institutions that was formed for the flourishing of Saivam and Tamil, Dharmapuram Adheenam (Mutt) is in the eastern part of Mayuram.
It is the most important location for "Tula snaanam", in the river Kavery in the Tamil month of "Aippasi".

Moovalur Markasagaya shiva temple constructed by Kulothunga cholan is 4Km away from Mayiladuthurai.

Senthangudi Durga Temple - Durga Temple is also famous and is 2 Km from Mayiladuthurai.

Tirupambupuram Temple - Tirupambupuram is a very ancient Shiva temple. It is known as Dakshina Kalahasti. It is located near peralam (7km west).

Thirumanancheri Temple - Thirumanancheri Temple is very famous very near from mayiladuthurai.

Kannagi Temple - The Kannagi Temple is in Melaiyur which is located around 24 km from Mayiladuthurai. Poompuhar is 4km from Melaiyur.

Punugiswarar Temple - The Punugiswarar Temple is dedicated to Lord Siva & consort santha nayaki.Situated at koranad.Workshipped by civet cat.

First of all, we reached Chidambaram by 12:45 PM. Chidambaram is 11 km from the coast and 240 km south of Chennai, is a major pilgrimage site for Shaivites as the temple there houses the Akasha Lingam of Shiva and is one of the greatest Shiva Temples of Tamilnadu.
The temple closes for devotees by 12:30 and we couldn't see Akasha Lingam (the main diety). But were able to go around and see those massive temple walls and its archetecture including wall paintings.
However, we could see the glimpse of Akasha Lingam while returning back home on the third day. On Saturday night we could cover three temples in the vicinity. We checked into the PAMS hotel which is affordable with a decent double bed room, costed us Rs. 2000 per day. That afternoon and got fresh and headed toward Oppiliappan Koil (TiruvNNagaram).

Oppiliappan Koil: is one of the famous Divya Desams located at Thiru Nageswaram near Kumbakonam in the Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu. On the same evening we could cover Thiruadhanur, Thirupullambhuthangkudi, Thirukkavithathalam temples. The Chakrapani, Sarangapani and Ramaswamy temples, which are located in the town of Kumbakonam, were covered in one evening.

We shall be posting the pleasure trip to more temples Surya Naryana Koil, Gharba Rakshambika koil, Ambika Amman Koil and Kethu Sthalam as on the day two.

Tirumala Sevas - TTD

noreply@blogger.com (lakshmi narsimhan) — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 08:22:00 +0000

Tirumala Sevas - at TTD (Tirumala Tirupati Devastanam)
During the start of this month we had a long drive from Chennai to Tirumala Hills of the shrine Srinivasar, also know as Balaji or Venkateshwara Swamy. This drive was exciting and more attractive view in my car (Wagonr) is the Vinayaka sitting on the dash board.

We could get the tickets for Nija Paadha Seva and also an oportinuity to perform Kalyanothsavam (Kalyana Vothsavam) on a single day, which was on 6th of June 2008. Moreover that was the Sudha and I got married in the 2004 at Tirumala Hills.
That next evening we could attend Voonjal Seva, that is now-a-days happening in a auditorium due to the recent mishup that took place at the previous location as a fire broke-out due to the candles litWell the Voonjal Seva was for Kodhanda Ramar moorthy.

Due to lot of crowd on the hills for dharshan, TTD authority had arranged alternatives to manage the crowd that come every day. It is said that it was massively crowded (2 Lac people) a day after we had darshan.
Further more, the TTD authorities claim that they can provide darshan for not more than 65 Thousand people per day. We also could get the Tirupati Laddu that are very famous ones and are about to get a Geographical Indication (GI) for its uniqueness.

However, the best way one can get the glimse of the lord Sri Venkateshwara is very simple and easy if one can book their tickets in advance at TTD Website online from any location in the world.
Finally, I request you to click on the image on the left to check the sevas that are offered by TTD at Tirumala. Good Luck and happy journey!