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Yoga Narasimha Perumal Temple-Narasingam

2012-02-25T22:02:00.000+05:30

Narasingam

The Village Narasingam is situated at a distance of 8 km from Madurai on the road to Melur. Near to this village, at the foot of the Yanaimalai hills there is a Cave temple of Yoga Narasinga Perumal.. This temple was constructed in 770 A.D. by Madurakavi alias Marankaari who was the minister of the Madurai King Paraanthaka Nedunchelzyan. There is a front Mandapam (court). The sculpture of Narasinga Perumal is carved out of the Yanaimalai Hill rocks. Since the hill is in the shape of an elephant, the name of the hill is called Yannaimalai.

This temple is a good example of the cave sculpturing of the Pandia Kingdom. In front of this there is a stone temple for the goddess Sri. Narasingavalli.

This place, though not a `Divyadesam' sanctified by Azhwars' hymns, is situated between two holy places — Azhagarkoil in the north and Thirumohur in the east.

Sthala Puranam

According to the Sthala Puranam of Madurai Koodal Azhagar Temple, known as Koodal Manmiyam, published 80 years ago, sage Romasa had installed the Narasimha idol in a cave in the hill. And the 87th chapter of the Uthara Kandam of the Brahmanda Puranam says the sage did penance on the banks of the tank called Padma Thadagam, as it was filled with lotus flowers, near the Gajagiri Kshethram (the present Yanaimalai) seeking progeny, and wanted the Lord to appear in His Narasimhavatara. The Lord appeared as Ugra Narasimha and the heat that emanated from Him was unbearable. Even the celestials were affected by it and they all came to Gajagiri Kshethram and prayed to the Lord to calm down. The Lord could not be pacified and then they sought the help of Prahlada, whose arrival quietened Him to some extent. They prayed to Goddess Mahalakshmi, who also took Her abode in Him as Narasingavalli, after which He became Yoga Narasimha. The Lord later granted the boon sought by the sage.

According to another legend, Lord Siva was afflicted by Brahmahathi Dosha after He plucked one of the five heads of Lord Brahma. He was relieved of it after He took bath in the holy water source here, also known as Chakra Theertham, and He worshipped Lord Narasimha. It is believed that taking a dip in the Chakra Theertham, which is near the temple, rids one of all sins.

The Thiruvilaiyadal Puranam, written first by Perumbatrapuliyur Nambi and later by Paranjothi Munivar, says that the Chozha king, who could not win the battle against the Pandya ruler, sought the help of Jains.

They created a giant elephant using their mystic powers and directed it to kill the Pandya king and destroy his capital. But the Pandya prayed to Lord Siva to save him and his capital. The Lord sent to him the `Narasinga Asthram,' which turned the elephant into a hill.

To commemorate this event, a stone elephant was installed in Madurai near the Vaigai facing the north, which is found near the Yanaikkal bridge even today. Inscriptions in the cave temple say that Maran Kari, the minister of the Pandya king, started the construction of the temple in 770 A.D., which remained unfinished, either due to his death or due to some other calamity, and was completed by his brother Maran Eyinan later. He also built the Muka Mandapam and consecrated the temple.

The fort around Azhagarkoil is also known as Iranyan Kottai, and even now a stone idol of Lord Yoga Narasimha is found atop its entrance. A big idol of Yoga Narasimha, found in the outerprakaram(closed precincts of a temple) of the Azhagarkoil temple, known as `Jwala Narasimhar,' is said to be ferocious. To pacify Him, regular Thirumanjanam is performed with gingelly oil. A hole is found in the ceiling above the idol which is believed to let out the fire emanating from it.

The foot of the hill, where the Narasimha temple is located is known as Narasingam or Hasthigiri or Gajagiri.

There are Mahamandapam, Garuda Mandapam and Mukhamandapam of the Pandya period. The shrine of Goddess Narasingavalli faces south, at the entrance. Inscriptions say that there was also an `agraharam' for Vedic Brahmins, but there is no trace of it now.

The temple bustles with activity during the Narasimha Jayanthi, and on Masi Makam day, when Sri Kalamega Perumal of Thirumohur visits this place for the `Gajendra Moksham' festival.

The temple is unique for its utsava idol of Narasimha in a standing posture with the Sudarsana and Panchajanya in His upper two hands while the left lower hand holds the Gathai and the right is in the Abhaya Hastha posture.

[edit]Inscriptions

The inscriptions at the temple are in ancient Tamil, Brahmi and Vattezhuthu. There are two inscriptions of Srivallabha Pandya, which speak about the gifts made to the temple. There are also inscriptions of later Pandyas and one of them, belonging to the rule of Sundara Pandya, (1216 A.D.) gives details about his conquest of the Chozha country. Another inscription says that land gifts were made at Iyakkimangalam village for conducting the festival in the Yanaimalai Temple.

Inscriptions belonging to the rule of later Pandyas, especially Maravarman Sundara Pandya I, are also available but most of them are incomplete. The Yoga Narasimha idol at the temple is six feet high, sculpted on the hill itself.

Uduppi Krishnan Temple

2012-01-15T07:30:00.000+05:30

Shree Krishna Temple Udipi is first among the seven places of pilgrimages. Thousands of pious devotees throng the Udupi Krishna temple all round the year to catch a glimpse of Lord Krishna. The unique feature of Shree Krishna Mutt temple is that the Lord is worshipped only through a window with nine holes called the Navagraha Kitiki. The window is exquisitely carved and silver - plated. It has been a tradition in this temple to worship the Lord only through this window. Read on to know more about the temple, the legends, the pujas & rituals and the festivals celebrated.

Udupi is a divine shrine in the coastal region of Western Ghats. Situated about 60 kms from Mangalore, it is a fairly large and upcoming town that was sanctum of Madhvacharya, the great Sanskrit Philosopher. The famous temple here, has a fascinating idol of Lord Krishna that is richly adorned with jewels. It is the center for education, social and religious activities in the district of South Canara. It is known for the famous Sri Krishna temple. The reasons for its fame are the statue of Sri Krishna installed by the great saint Sri Madhvacharya and the penance and influence of Sri Vaadiraja yathivarenya. Another attraction of this temple is the 'Kanakana Kindi' -a small window through which Krishna is believed to have given darshan to his ardent devotee, Kanakadasa.

There are three temples in Udupi; Chandreshwara, Anantheshwara and Sri Krishna temple. Chandreshwara and Anatheshwara are the most ancient temples of Udupi.Popular belief is that King RamaBhoja, an ardent follower of Parashurama installed the statue of Anantheshwara. Chandreshwara temple was built in the spot where Chandra (the moon) performed a penance, to get rid of the curse of Daksha Prajapathi. The place where Chandra meditated got to be called as Udupi. (Udu = a star and pa = follower) The usual practice in Udupi is to visit Chandreswara, Anantheshwara temples and then visit Sri Krishna temple. There is many interesting stories behind the installation of statue of Sri Krishna at Udupi.

In the 16th century, during Sri Vaadiraja 's rule, Kanakadasa, an ardent believer of God, came to Udupi to worship Lord Krishna. He was not allowed inside the temple since he was from a lower caste. Sri Krishna, pleased by the worship of Kanakadasa created a small hole in the back wall of the temple and turned to face the hole so that Kanakadasa could see him. This hole came to be known as KanakanaKindi.

The sight of the beautiful MudduKrishna is available to everybody through the Kanakanakindi.

Sri Krishna Temple in Udupi :- 0820-2520598

Sri Oppiliappan Temple, Tiruvinnagaram - Divya Desam

2011-12-29T21:51:00.000+05:30

In his ecstacy while praising the Lord, Nammalwar could not bear the separation with Oppiliappan. The Lord in His kindness, Himself embressed the Alwar, shared His happness with his devotee and decided to stay here permanently. This is how the Alwar's verses in praise of this Lord have been interpreted by ancient commentators.

Further, in 9 of his verses in Tiruvaimozhi in praise of this Lord, Nammalwar has highlighted that God is dwelling even in mutually conflicting objects and thereby the Lord harmonises mutually contradictory objects.

Tirumangai Alwar in his first decad eulogising the Lord here, observes that if only he can have the divine vision of the Lord, he would not desire family life here. He emphasises this point by repeating the same in 9 out of 10 verses.

Those who had divine vision of the Lord here were Garuda, Kaveri River, Dharma devata and sage Markandeya, according to Purana.

Vimanam:

It is named as Suddhananda, meaning "pure happiness". Devotees who worship this vimana (tower) derive immense and unalloyed happiness. Note that the vimana in Tirumala - Tirupati is named as Ananda vimana, whereas here it is Suddhananda Vimana.

Holy place:

Because of Markandeya's severe penance, the Lord appeared here and married Bhoomidevi, who also appeared here earlier and was brought up by Markandeya. Hence it is called Markandeya Kshetra. Since Bhoomidevi appeared here among the forest of Tulasi plants, It is also known as Tulasi Vanam.

Holy waters: (pushkarini)

The pushkarini (Temple Tank) here is known as "Ahoratra Pushkarini", meaning that bathing is specially permissible here both during day and night. Normally according to sastras, bating in holy waters is not permitted during nights. But nowadays bathing is permitted here, only when the n his ecstacy while praising the Lord, Nammalwar could not bear the separation with Oppiliappan. The Lord in His kindness, Himself embressed the Alwar, shared His happness with his devotee and decided to stay here permanently. This is how the Alwar's verses in praise of this Lord have been interpreted by ancient commentators is kept open for darsan.

Other holy waters:

Sarnga Tirtham, Surya Tirtham, Indra Tirtham and Brahma Tirtham are situated outside the temple according to puranas. These are now dry and not fit for bathing.

Rivers:

To the south of the temple, three holy rivers flow-known as Dakshina Ganga, Dakshina Yamuna and Dakshina Godavari.

The day Lord oppiliappan appeared:

It was at noon on the day of sravanam in the Tamil month of Panguni that Lord appeared to Markandeya here. As such a 9 day festival of Brahmotsavam is celebrated every year, with rathotsava (chariot) on the day of Panguni Sravanam.

Wedding Day:

Lord oppiliappan married Bhoomi Devi on the day of Sravanam in the Tamil month Aippasi. In celebration of this, a 12-day music and dance festival, is held every year, commencing with Tirukkalyanam (holy wedding) of the Lord with Bhoomidevi on Aippasi Sravanam. In his ecstacy while praising the Lord, Nammalwar could not bear the separation with Oppiliappan. The Lord in His kindness, Himself embressed the Alwar, shared His happness with his devotee and decided to stay here permanently. This is how the Alwar's verses in praise of this Lord have been interpreted by ancient commentators.

Those who had divine vision of the Lord here were Garuda, Kaveri River, Dharma devata and sage Markandeya, according to Purana.

Vimanam:

Holy place:

Holy waters: (pushkarini)

Other holy waters:

Sarnga Tirtham, Surya Tirtham, Indra Tirtham and Brahma Tirtham are situated outside the temple according to puranas. These are now dry and not fit for bathing.

Rivers:

To the In his ecstacy while praising the Lord, Nammalwar could not bear the separation with Oppiliappan. The Lord in His kindness, Himself embressed the Alwar, shared His happness with his devotee and decided to stay here permanently. This is how the Alwar's verses in praise of this Lord have been interpreted by ancient commentators.

Those who had divine vision of the Lord here were Garuda, Kaveri River, Dharma devata and sage Markandeya, according to Purana.

Vimanam:

Holy place:

Holy waters: (pushkarini)

Other holy waters:

Sarnga Tirtham, Surya Tirtham, Indra Tirtham and Brahma Tirtham are situated outside the temple according to puranas. These are now dry and not fit for bathing.

Rivers:

To the south of the temple, three holy rivers flow-known as Dakshina Ganga, Dakshina Yamuna and Dakshina Godavari.

The day Lord oppiliappan appeared:

Wedding Day:

The day Lord oppiliappan appeared:

Wedding Day:

Thiru Naraiyur - Nachiyar Kovil - Divya Desam

2011-12-29T21:16:00.000+05:30

Garudan (Kal Garudan)The beautiful stone idol of the Garuda, which gains weight stage when taken out for a procession and reduces back to its normal weight while coming towards the temple.

The excellent collection of copper idols of Various gods. Alwars and other important kings.

Moolavar:

The Moolavar of this sthalam is Thirunarayur Nambi. Also called as Srinivasan and Vasudevan. The Moolavar is giving his seva in standing posture being ready to marry the Thaayar, facing east (Kalyana thirukkolam). Prathyaksham for Medavi Munivar and Brahma devan.

Thayaar:

The Thayaar found in this sthalam is Vanjulavalli Naachiyar. She is found next to the Moolavar in Garbhagriham ( Moolavar Sannadhi ). No Separate Sannidi for Thayar)

Mangalasasanam:

Thirumangai - 110 Paasurams.

Pushkarani:

Mani mukthi Nadhi Theertham.
Aniruddha Theertham.
Pradhyumna Theertham.
Samba Theertham.
Sankarshana Theertham.

Vimanam:
Srinivasa Vimaanam.

Sringeri

2011-12-29T06:27:00.003+05:30

We visited Sringeri on 21st and 22nd od Dec 2011 and Got The Blessings of Jagathguru Sri Bharathi Tirtha Mahasamiji. It was a Blissful Visit to Sringeri Muth and Temples There. The Premises on Banks of River Thunga is showered with Divinity, Calmness, Quietness, and whole atmosphere is spiritually charged.

When AdiSankarachaya came to Sringeri, he saw an unusual sight on the banks of the Tunga. A cobra was seen spreading out its hood over a frog in labour pains, to give it shadow from the scorching mid-day sun. Struck with the sanctity of the place, which could infuse love between natural adversaries, the Acharya chose this very location to establish His first Math.Jagadguru Sri Adi Shankara Bhagavatpada established the first of the four Amnaya Peethams¹ at Sringeri more than twelve centuries ago to foster the sacred tradition of Sanatana Dharma.

Sri Kappe Shankara - A Shrine on the banks of the Holy Tunga river in memory to the
glorious sight witnessed by Sri Adi Shankaracharya; A serpent giving shade from the
scorching sun to a pregnant frog in labour pains

Today, the Sringeri Sharada Peetham bedecked with an unbroken chain of Acharyas continues to uphold the principles of Sanatana Dharma with the 36th Acharya Jagadguru Shankaracharya Sri Sri Bharati Tirtha Mahaswamiji acting as a treasure of spiritual wisdom and peace for all seekers.

Chandramouliswara Puja

The Linga of Sri Chandramoulishwara crystal linga, radiant like the moon, representing Jnana and bliss, is the principal idol of worship not only in Sringeri but also in the other three Amnaya Peethams - Badri, Dwaraka and Puri. Legend has it that this Sphatika linga, along with those of the other three Amnaya Peethams aswell, was handed over by Sri Adi Shankaracharya to his four disciples. Sri Adi Shankaracharya himself received the four lingas from Lord Shiva. Since then, the Lingas have been propitiated by the various Acharyas who have adorned the Peethams. Chandramouleeshwara linga is propitiated thrice a day, morning and evening with “Shodasha-Upachara” as ordained in the scriptures.

We had previlage of having a darshan of the Jagadguru worshipping the Chandramouleeshwara Linga in the night on 21st Dec. The Guru Sadan was reverberating Vedic Chants , including Rudram, Chamakam, Purusha suktham, Durga suktham,Sri sukhtham as The Jagadguru propiatiates Lord Chandramouleeshwara admidst rituals through the pooja.

To Be contd....

Chinmaya Tapovan Ashram - Sidhabari - Himalayas

2011-11-27T08:32:00.002+05:30

Chinmaya Tapovan Ashram

Chinmaya Tapovan is a modern day ashram situated at the foothills of the majestic Dhauladhar ranges of the Himalayas. It is about 10 km from Dharamsala, in Himachal Pradesh.
Situated on the banks of Bindu Saras, the ashram was founded by late Swami Chimayananda, a great exponent of the Gita. The ashram complex has a 9 m high image of Lord Hanuman, a Ram temple, a meditation hall, a school, and a health and recreation center.

Nestling in the spectacular Dhauladhar ranges of the Himalayas is the Chinmaya Tapovan Ashram, one of the many retreats of the Chinmaya Mission. Apart from its importance in being a center of the Sandeepany Vedanta course, camps, and the Chinmaya Rural Primary Health and Training Center, this ashram is special as this is also Swami Chinmayananda's last resting-place, who attained Mahasamadhi in August 1993 .

The ashram is named after the guru of Swami Chinmayananda, Swami Tapovan Maharaj. Located in the scenic Himalayan mountain ranges, with its cool climes and fresh air, far away from the madness of city life, the ashram provides the environment necessary for meditation, spiritual fulfillment and introspection. People in search for spiritual succor make their way to this ashram from all across the country and the world.

Lord Veera Hanuman - Consecrated on: 10th October 1982
We ~ 50 Members of CHYK (Chinmaya Tuka Kendra) Members from Madras , Lead by Mrs Padma Narasimhan (Then Director -TTK Group Of Companies) were invited by Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda as His Guests . We were fortunate to attend the Function and Gita Yagna Conducted by Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda. A large No Of Devotees gathered in the Ashram on this occasion . 1008 Kalasams Filled with Holy Water Were Purified with Traditional Japas Performed by Pandits. !008 Devotees Performed Abhishekam to Lord Hanuman, Lead by Gurudev who Performed abhishekam First with a Golden Kalasam. We have The Copper kalasam , with which I performed Abhishekam at our home even today. It was very Nice to Recall the events from the memory line and Share when I visited The ashram in May 2010 ( Ref Blog : http://bbjee.blogspot.com/2010/06/spiritual-sadhana-camp-at-sidhabari.html) . It is My Pleasure to Share some of the Photos taken in 1982 and 2010 in the Ashram

Lord Hanuman

Bhajan During Consecration Function

Swami Tejomayanandaji (Then Viveka Chaitanya) Leading Bhajans

Devotees carrying Kumbam Filled With Holy Water

Tents at the Back Drop , Where We stayed.

Construction of Hanuman Idol began in 1979 and as per Gurudev's Sankalpa, a Veera Hanumanji's idol was to be installed. The well-known sculptor, Sri Kashinath of Shimoga sculpted the cement concrete idol of Hanumanji in Veerasan posture. It is 25 ft tall and rests on a 7 ft granite pedestal. The idol was consecrated on 10th October 1982 by Pujya Gurudev.
Veera Hanumanji is seated at Sidhbari under the milky sky, open to the embrace of his father, Vayu, the Wind God. Hanumanji successfully keeps the damaging winds at bay. By worshipping the deity, one gains strength, courage, fame, alertness, eloquence and wisdom. As Swami Tejomayananda says, 'Lord Hanuman is the embodiment of all great divine qualities put together - Devotion, Dedication, Service, Dispassion, Strength, Humility, Knowledge and every other virtue!'
Once in five years a consecration ceremony (Mahamastakabhishekam) of the idol is performed for which devotees from all parts of the world gather.

Sita Ram Temple

Name of Deity: Vanavasi Lord Rama & Sita

Consecrated on: 22nd Oct 1983

The construction of Shri Rama Mandir began in March 1983 and the temple with Vanavasi Lord Rama & Sita was consecrated on 22nd October 1983. The architecture of the temple is unique in style - a Setu (bridge) between North & South Indian Culture, executed by skilled artists from Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

www.chinmayamission.com/temple-rama-mandir.php

The Samadhi of Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda is in Sidhabari.

Devotees from all corners of the globe come to meditate, worship, and bask in the presence of the master, whose mortal remains are buried under the sculpted image. The Bhu Samadhi of Pujya Gurudev was done on 9th August 1993.
Built in traditional Kerala style, the Samadhi Sthala houses Swamiji's ashtadhatu pratima, or sculpture made of eight metals. Worship and aarti is offered twice daily.

The Samadhi is the most revered and intense abode of silence and the focal point for ashram residents, Devotees and Students of Swamiji.

Inside the ashram is a huge discourse hall, ideal for lectures on the Geeta. Also located inside the campus is a bookshop, which sells prized literature on Hindu religion besides recorded music and discourses' cassettes.

How to reach Tapovan AshramThe nearest airport is the Kangra Airport about 20 kms from the ashram. From here one can avail of taxi services to reach the ashram.If you are traveling by rail, the nearest station is Pathankot or Chakki Bank, both of which are 90 kms from the ashram. From either of the stations, you can avail of the taxis that are available. You can also take buses that run between Pathankot station and Dharamsala, which is 8 kms from the ashram. From Dharamsala you can hire a taxi.
Direct buses are available to Dharamsala from Delhi (526 kms), Shimla (260 kms) and Chandigarh (242 kms).

For more information about the ashram, you can contact:
Chinmaya Tapovan Trust
Sandeepany Himalayas
Sidhabari
Himachal Pradesh 176 057
India
E-mail: sidhabari@chinmayamission.org or ctthm@vsnl.com

Also Visit
http://bbjee.blogspot.com/2010/06/spiritual-sadhana-camp-at-sidhabari.html

Sholingur Yoga Narasimhar

2011-11-19T21:44:00.034+05:30

Yoga Narasimha Temple is in Sholingur Tamil Nadu

Its original name was Kadikachalam or Chozhasimhapuram.

Sri Yoga Narashimha Swamy temple at sholingur in vellore District is a famous pilgrimage spot.It is believed traditionally that worshipping the lord at this temple would relieve the devotees from various ailments.Especially those who suffer from mental illness and evil spirits visits to this temple for special worship and many of them have experienced the relief from their sorrows.(Matrimonial Matching Success - Issueless(childless) Couples are blessed by the Lord) Sholingur village has two hills on which the temples are started.On the main hill,which has 1305 steps and is about 750 feet high,the temple of sri Yoga Narasimhar with goddess Amruthavalli is situated.There is also a Temple for Sri yoga Anjaneyar on the small hill, which is about 350 feet High. The temples will be Open between 8 am to 5.30 pm

மிக்கானை மறையாய் விரிந்த விளக்கை என்னுள்

புக்கானை புகழ்சேர் பொலிகின்ற பொன்மலையைத்

தக்கானை கடிகைத் தடங்குன்றின் மிசையிருந்த

அக்காரக் கனி"யை அடைந்துய்ந்து போனேனே - திருமங்கையாழ்வார்!

It is believed that Moksha is certain for those who stays for just 1 kadigai (24 minutes) at this place. Saptarishis desirous of having darshan of Nrisimha performed Tapas here and were rewarded within one kadigai. Hence this Kshetra is called Kadikachalam and Tirukadigai. This is an important prathana sthala. People come here for warding off evil spirits.e hill (500 ft) is Yoga Narasimhar (Akkaarakani) seen in seated posture facing east.

Thaayaar - Amruthavalli.

Theertham - Amrutha Theertham, Thakkan Kulam.

There is a popular belief that worhsip at this sthalam will rid devotees of diseases and mental disroders.

The utsavar at the foot of the hill is Bakthavatsala Perumal (Thakkan). There is a sannadhi for Adikesava Perumal behind the utsavar. There are also sanndahis for Andal, Erumbiyappa, Thottachariyar.

The Anjaneyar on the smaller hill is Yoga Anjaneyar with Changu & Chakram (four arms), Who is facing West - Worshiping Lord Narasimha.

Mangalasasanam : Thirumangai Azhvar - 1731,1736,2673,.
Peyazgvar : 2342.
Total Four Pasurams.

Some of the Photos Clicked When Visited the Shine on 19.11.2011, ( Worshiping Lord Nrasimha in the Month of Karthikai is Very Sacred. Devotees Visit in Thousands , Especially on Sundays in the Month Of Karthikai)

Yoga Anjaneya

At the end of the Rama Avataaram, Anjaneya wanted to join Raama in his abode at Vaikuntam. However, Rama had other thoughts and asked Anjaneya to go to Sholingur to protect the Rishis from Asuras. Rama provided Anjaney with Conch and Chakra.

Devoted as ever and always following Raama’s words, Anjaneya is said to have come here and demolished the asuras. Lord Narasimha appeared before Anjaneya and asked him to remain here, as Yoga Anjaneya, with the assurance that he would take Anjaneya into Vaikuntam during Kali Yugam.

There is a small opening on the wall of the Periya Malai Koil through which it is said that Yoga Anjaneya, from his place in Chinna Malai, has darshan of Lord Narasimha.

Abiding by the Lord’s wishes, Anjaneya is said to have remained here atop the small hill and is seen here with four hands( Chathurbhuja Anjaneyar) in a Yoga posture with Conch, Chakra, Japa Maalai and the fourth hand with a Japa Sankai( counting the Japam).

This is the only Divya Desam with such special prominence for Lord Anjaneya.

There is a Raama Sannidhi and Ranganatha ( Bala Sayanam ) Sannidhi inside the Yoga Anjaneya temple.

Also visit http://bbjee.blogspot.com/2011/08/srimushnam-bhoo-varaha-swamy.html

How to Reach Sholingur From Chennai - Please refer the Link
http://www.mustseeindia.com/driving-directions-from-Chennai-to-Sholingur/travel-direction

sholinghurnarasimhar

ஓங்கி உலகளந்த உத்தமன் Thiruppavai - Pasuram 3 - Oongi UlakaLaNtha Uththaman.

2011-10-27T20:03:00.023+05:30

3. ஓங்கி உலகளந்த உத்தமன்

ஓங்கி உலகளந்த உத்தமன் பேர்பாடி
நாங்கள்நம் பாவைக்குச் சாற்றிநீ ராடினால்
தீங்கின்றி நாடெல்லாம் திங்கள்மும் மாரிபெய்து
ஓங்கு பெறும்செந் நெல்ஊடு கயலுகளப்
பூங்குவளைப் போதில் பொறிவண்டு கண்படுப்பத்
தேங்காதே புக்கிருந்து சீர்த்த முலைபற்றி
வாங்க குடம் நிறைக்கும் வள்ளல் பெரும்பசுக்கள்
நீங்காத செல்வம் நிறைந்தேலோர் எம்பாவாய்.

Ongi UlakaLantha Uththaman - Vibhavam

In this Third Pasuram Andal sings of His Vibhava ( Avathara's) Form as she says

"Ongi UlakaLantha Uththaman"

Vibhava avatara is the third form of of Lord Vishnu. The literal meaning of the term Vibhava is the manifestation of the Supreme Lord by assuming bodies similar to those of human beings or other living beings. The vibhava avatara constitutes the most important doctrine. The Epics and the Indian Puranas have highlighted the importance of the various incarnations of Vishnu.

The number of such incarnations is considered to be infinite (ananta). However, the Sattvata Samhita which is the oldest Pancharatra text, enumerates thirty-nine as important avataras. This is also stated by the Ahirbudhanya Samhita. The Visvaksena Samhita mentions thirty-six avatars.

Thiruvikraman addressed as "Utthaman"

The salutation of the Lord as Utthaman deserves study .Utthaman is One who stands at a height , where Paapams can not touch Him . ChAndhOgya Upanishad called such a lofty personage as "UTH" . A Chethanan after SaraNAgathi and after leading the prescribed life after SaraNAgathi / Prapatthi can also become an "UTH " at Sri Viakuntam .The eternally liberated (Nithya Mutha Jeevans) like Garuda and VishvaksEna have a higher level than "UTH" and are revered as "Utthara". Even beyond them is the "Utthaman" or PurushOtthaman (Sriman Narayanan) celebrated in the upanishad of our Lord.

ANDAL depicts , Thrivikraman appeared as " Utthaman " and She addressed Him as " Ongi Ulahu-aLantha Utthaman " and She invited Her friends to sing about the glory of that Utthaman's Naamam ( Utthaman pEr Paadi) as an important part of the Paavai Nonbhu sankalpam to attain the desired fruits (Phalans)of the Vratham. The Importance Of Nama Sankirthanam is Emphasized.Thrivikraman is "PurushOtthaman" because His sacred feet touched devotees and enemies all alike (Samastha Janthus) during this avathAram and blessed them all with His anugraham.

Andal Confers a Special Title "Uththaman".
There are Three kinds Of Persons.
Athaman - He lives for himself some times at others Cost.
Madhyaman : He lives himself and Let Others live.
Uththaman: He lives for the welfare of others.
He undergoes sufferings for himself, for others well being.
Lord Comes as Vaman , a Tiniest figure and Gets a Title of Uththaman.Lord goes with a begging bowl for his devotee's Sake.

Its also to be noted that OnGki ulakaLandha uththaman is in nadandha thirukkOlam. Poigai Azhvar & Thirumangkai Azhvar have stated this in their pAsurams.
The specialty of nadandha thirukkOlam is that he walks for the welfare of his devotees. He walked to the forests of kANdavaprastham to give guhan mOksham, he walked upto the shores of rAmEshwaram where vibIshaNan came over there only walking a little distance from Srilanka but srIrAmar walked from ayOdhya to the seashore to give vibhIshaNan refuge. As srIkrishNar he walked for the pANdavas as pAndava dhUthar for negotiating with kauravAs.
So when he is in nadandha thirukkOlam he is Uththaman.

Ongi ULakaLaNtha Uththaman

This paasuram is dedicated to Ulagalandha perumal who is the presiding deity at Thirukovalur, a divya desam near Villupuram in TamilNadu. There are totally three paasurams that are dedicated to Ulagalandha perumal in Thiruppavai. Those include the paasuram numbers 3, 17 and 24. An interesting point to be noted here is that during the Thiruvikrama avataram, Shriman Narayanan measured the whole earth as well as the sky with His two feet. He placed His third feet on the head of Bali chakravarthy. Everyone craves to reach the Lotus feet of Shriman Narayanan. But Bali chakravarthy is so blessed that Shriman Narayanan himself, in Thiruvikrama avataram, has come to Bali’s kingdom and had placed His “Thiruvadi” on Bali chakravarthi’s head. Here, in Thiruppavai, Shri Andal gives moondru adi (three feet) to commemorate the events in “Vamanaavataram”.

உத்தமன்

Purushottama;(24)

He is purushottama:

He excels all three catogories ofJivas Baddhas,Mukthas, Nityas.He is different from all of them.

In gita Bhagavan says “ I am well known in the world and in the Vedas as Purushottama, because I am uttama, superior tothe ksara-purusa and aksara purusa and avyaktha.”He sustains them, but neither of them.Therefore, He issuperior to them being very adhishtana, the basis of them and hence Purushottama.

ஓங்கி உலகளந்த உத்தமன்

Vamana, Thrivikrama avathara is Glorified by Andal in Three pasurams.

As per Parasara Bhattar, In Vishnu sahasranama, Namas Starting From Vamana(154) to Yama: (164) are signifying Vamana Avathara.

Vamana: (154)

He, it was who took the Vamana avatara at the time of Bali’s Yajna, only to save Indra his throne.The Vedas Declare ’ He Vaman, grants pleasures to those who envision His form’.

The Lord Vaman is seated in the middle of the Heart, that is ,He is the one who obtainsin the Bhuddi.. Vamana also means that the one who is the most saught after, the one one who is to be recognised,understood and in whose gain everything is gained.The Kathopanishad says ‘ madhye vamanam aasinam visve devaa upaasathe’ – even the deva worship whome because of whose grace they are devas, the vaama is there in the heart, that is the bhuddi.
Pramsu: (155), The One Who is tall.

Himself became tall to measure the Tnree worlds and became Pramsu. Immediiatly, However, The Vamana rose tolofty heights as Trivikrama to scale the whole universe.The glory of the feat was proclaimed by the Veda, as if it were the drum to acclaim victory. The Lord is big, you cannot findout where His head is.This is Aadhidaivika. You cannot see head and feet because all that is here is only the Lord. The Lord inside the heart is Vamana and Everyting outside is Pramsu.

156 – Amogha:

None Who has resorted to the Lord will ever fall. His unsurpassable power is such that His devotee will not suffer any failure. The name explains how the Lord in Vamana avatara conferred protection to Indra and gave boon to Bali (Who is a Chiranjeevi). His grace was available to both Indra and Bali.

157 Suchi;

Pure and Holi. Pue and Purifier , He is because He grants favours to anyone, without expecting, and without getting any returns.

He is pavanatvat-because He purifies those who remember, and worship Him.At the same time He is the one who does not require to be purified , because He is ever pure.
158.Urjita: The one endowed with strength.

He is of established might in restraining the opponent, foe example He did this in case of Namuchi, the son of Bali.

The Lord says in Gita ‘balam, balavatam asmi’ (7.11) – I am the strength in the strong.

159 Atindra: Who is Greater than Indra.

Even when taking ant avatara as younger to Indra, He Excels Indra , (who borrows strength from Lord, ) in His over-command and Mastery, proving His superiority.

160 Sangraha:

He is Easily and Effortlessly Grasped by Bhaktas.

161 Sarga:

He is The Creator. The Creation and the the cause for Creation.For He creates Himself so as to subserve interests of devotees, As He did in Trivikrama avatara. Here He enabled all devotees sread over vast expanse of the land to get blessed by His foot.

162 Dhrtatma

He bears, suatains, elevates and helps, to reach salvation all souls.He gives Himself up to them.

163 Niyama:

He controles, even those like Bali who have the habit of tormenting others.

164 Yama:

He corrects, rectifies and brings to the right path all , including who always think of evil.

ஓங்கி உலகளந்த உத்தமன் பேர்பாடி

நாங்கள்நம் பாவைக்குச் சாற்றிநீ ராடினால்

தீங்கின்றி நாடெல்லாம் திங்கள்மும் மாரிபெய்து

ஓங்கு பெறும்செந் நெல்

Bhagavat Gita; Chapter 3. Karma-yoga TEXT 14

Lord Says

annad bhavanti bhutani

parjanyad anna-sambhavah

yajnad bhavati parjanyo

yajnah karma-samudbhavah

annat--from grains; bhavanti--grow; bhutani--the material bodies;parjanyat--from rains; anna--of food grains; sambhavah--are made possible; yajnat--from the performance of sacrifice; bhavati--becomes possible; parjanyah--rains; yajnah--performance of yajna; karma--prescribed duties; samudbhavah--born of.

Means

All living bodies subsist on food grains, which are produced from rains. Rains are produced by performance of yajna [sacrifice], and yajna is born of prescribed duties.

Food grains or vegetables are factually eatables. The human being eats different kinds of food grains, vegetables, fruits, etc., and the animals eat the refuse of the food grains and vegetables, grass, plants, etc. Human beings who are accustomed to eating meat and flesh must also depend on the production of vegetation in order to eat the animals. Therefore, ultimately, we have to depend on the production of the field . (தீங்கின்றி நாடெல்லாம் திங்கள்மும் மாரிபெய்து) . The field production is due to sufficient rain from the sky, and such rains are controlled by demigods like Indra, sun, moon, etc., and they are all servants of the Lord. The Lord can be satisfied by sacrifices; therefore, one who cannot perform them will find himself in scarcity--that is the law of nature. Yajna, specifically the sankirtana-yajna ( உத்தமன் பேர்பாடி) prescribed for this age, must therefore be performed to Bless us with Food.(ஓங்கு பெறும்செந் நெல்)

(To be Contd)

Also visit : http://bbjee.blogspot.com/2011/10/thiruppavai-pasuram-1-markazhi-thingal.html

http://bbjee.blogspot.com/2011/10/andal-thiruppavai.html

vaiyaththu - Thiruppaval Pasuram 2

2011-10-27T19:42:00.001+05:30

2. வையத்து வாழ்வீர்காள்

வையத்து வாழ்வீர்காள்! நாமும் நம்பாவைக்குச்
செய்யுங் கிரிசைகள் கேளீரோ! பாற்கடலுள்
பையத் துயின்ற பரமன் அடிபாடி,
நெய்யுண்ணோம்; பாலுண்ணோம்; நாட்காலே நீராடி
மையிட் டெழுதோம்; மலரிட்டு நாம் முடியோம்;
செய்யா தனசெய்யோம்; தீக்குறளைச் சென்றோதோம்;
ஐயமும் பிச்சையும் ஆந்தனையும் கைகாட்டி
உய்யுமா றெண்ணி உகந்தேலோ ரெம்பாவாய்.

Thiruppvai - PaRkadalil PaiyaththuyinRa Paraman

In this second Pasuram Andal depicts His Vituga Form as she says " Parkadalil PaiyaththuyinRa Paraman". ThiruppaRkadal - Second Holi shrine -Divya desam Sri Ksheerapthi Nathan . Kshreera sagara Sayanan

Macro Photography - Flowers

2011-10-23T12:33:00.001+05:30

Flowers appeal to all of us in many different ways, whether as a field of Garden Flowers, a vase with freshly cut flowers, giant yellow sunflowers reaching toward the sky, or the heady fragrance of lilies on the night air. Everyone likes to walk through the green blooming flower garden enjoying the aroma of Flowers and Plants

It allow the sights and smells of this floral haven to wrap around us like a comfortable blanket. Nature has the uncanny ability to talk to our souls. The fragrance of a rose, a butterfly landing on a lilac blossom, or the beauty of the morning dew can and should affect us deeply.

Every flower is a marvel hence my love of digital macro photography of flowers

Flowers and insects have a beauty all their own when you get really close to them.Few of photos are shown below for you to look into it and appreciate the natures gift of Beauty to us.

I tried my best to capture flowers of many kind and colors. Wherever i have traveled, within India and outside I have shot Flowers in close view. Flowers in Himachal always fascinate me. It is so interesting and enjoyable experience to capture a flower with an insect sitting on to it. Good patience and time sense can get you some lovely pictures.try capturing in early morning , and in best of the time you can get great shots with due drops on fresh morning flowers. Similarly try it immediately after rains.

Penseys , Lantanas of so many colors and hues sure to WOW one and all.

Point and shoot digital cameras often have a special macro setting that allows you to focus closer than normal,

One of the advantages of digital photography is that you can take as many shots as you like without wasting film, a feature that is very useful when it comes to macro photographs!

The closer you get, the less depth of field you will have. This term relates to how much of the photograph, from front to back, will be in focus. When you are really close to the subject of your photograph the depth of field can be measured in millimeters! A slight movement of the camera, or the flower itself in a gentle breeze, can be enough to spoil the shot.

Expect to take many shots to get one that is technically perfect.

Of course there is more to photographing flowers than just the technical aspect. You will need to develop an eye for a good photograph and the best way to do that is by practicing.

I request all interested ones to visit the my flicker sites, that has many colorful macros of Beautiful Flowers

http://www.flickr.com/photos/bbalaji/

மார்கழித் திங்கள் - Markazhi ThingaL- Thiruppavai - Pasuram 1

2011-10-23T08:40:00.017+05:30

1. மார்கழித் திங்கள்

மார்கழித் திங்கள் மதிநிறைந்த நன்னாளால்;

நீராடப் போதுவீர்! போதுமினோ, நேரிழையீர்!
சீர்மல்கும் ஆய்ப்பாடிச் செல்வச் சிறுமீர்காள்!
கூர்வேல் கொடுந்தொழிலன் நந்தகோபன் குமரன்,

ஏரார்ந்த கண்ணி யசோதை இளஞ்சிங்கம்,
கார்மேனிச் செங்கண் கதிர்மதியம் போல்முகத்தான்

நாரா யணனே, நமக்கே பறைதருவான்,
பாரோர் புகழப் படிந்தேலோ ரெம்பாவாய்.

Param

Markazi Thingal - Paramapadham

In this First Pasuram Andal Invokes Sriman Narayanan who is in Paramapadham or Vaikundam , when she says ' NarayaNane Namakke paRai Tharuvan)

Pramapadham :

This Divyadesam is said to be the place where all the Aathmas finally get the Mukthi. To this divyadesam also, we cant enter along with our body, but only our Aathmas can enter. This divyadesam doesnt exists in Earth. Paramapadham means all the Jeeva Athmas that attain and mingle along with Paramathma and their by attaining Mukthi (Salvation).

Explaination on Pramapadham :
This Pramapadham divyadesam is also called as Vaikundam, Thirunadu, Perumilam, Vinnagam, Naranan Ulagu etc. After crossing the good and evil, one can attain this Divyadesa perumal. (ie) Our Jeevathmas will be surrounded by lots of good and as well as evil (or) sinful aspects. By crossing these, we can attain the Pramathma only if we perform lots of good aspects in our life.

In Paramapadham, all the times are the same, there is no morning, evening and night and if one attains Paramapadham, he will not feel hungry (or) rather than to sleep.

Our human body is made up of Panja Bhoothams, (ie) 5 different particles we can say. After death, our Aathma escapes out from the body made of Panjabhoothams to attain Mukthi. This Aathma tht comes out from the body is referred to as "Nith Soorigal". They could not be destroyed by any earthquakes, typhoons (or) Pralayam.

Emperumaan is found along with Lakshmi piratti beside him and Bhoomi piratti is bearing all the Aathmas, which finally merges into the divine foot of Sriman Narayanan and Neela devi, who gives all her help towards the perumal is also found.

Periya pirattiyaar is the hamsam of Thiruvarul of the Emperumaan. Bhoomi piratti is the hamsam of Enjoy and help.

So, the perumal along with Periyapiratti, Bhoomipiratti and Neeladevipiratti is found in this Paramapadha divyadesams.

Let us also study Vishnu Sahasranama and His Namas Refererred in Thiruppavai Pasurams:

Narayanah (VS 245)

The ultimate goal of all beings

It is His Unique name. Upanishads proclaim His greatness and super lordship.

The jiva, a human being is called nara because na riyate,he never dies. If the jiva knows himself as the limitless unborn atma then he is timeless. If he does not know , then he continues in some form or other until he knows. And so, he never perishes. That which is the ayana, the ultimate end of every nara is Narayana. Lord Narayana is the ultimate end of every jiva because He is you. You are Narayana, the nara is Narayana.

Nara means the atma. Those that are born of, that is, the products of nara , such as akasa, vayu, and so on, are called nara. Narani ayate – in the form of their cause, the Lord pervades all of them. Therefore, they are His ayana, abode as it were.. Hence He is called Narayana.

Sankara Quotes here a few verses from sruti, smriti, purana and Mahabharatha toshow that the subtle elements are referred to nara and Lord is their ayana.

As all naras, jivas, merge into Lord during pralaya, He is Naranam ayanam, their abode and Hence Narayana. The Name Narayana is considered very sacred as it is Ashtakshara manthra.

In This pasuram : நாராயணனே

Lohitakshah (VS 58):

He is Lohitaksha because His eyes are Lohita, Reddish in colour. The Lord is manifest as our Solar system also and hence rising sun which is red in colour , as is His eyes. ( Saksho Surya ajayathah ). Upanishads say,”may the Loed as the red eyed sun protect me.”

His eyes are red like a blossomed lotus flower, in a natural way.The sense of rejoicing from an activity blossoms out in an enhanced tinge and flowering. Thus He aquires the name Lohitaksha.

In This pasuram : செங்கண் கதிர்

Bhanu: (VS284)

The One who shines.

He is the lender of dazzling radiance of the sun too. The sun has obtained a small fraction of the Lords effulgence. The real sun is therefore, the Lord. “the sun shines by borrowing from the Lord (veda)

The Lord- bhati , shines, and is hence Bhanu. Bhanu the sun lights up all objects but it is lighted by eyes. Without the eyes the sun cannot be seen.The eyes are lighted up by the mind and the mind is by atma. The atma is not lighted up by anything but Svayam bhati, is self shining and also self-revealing. The Lord as the atma, is Bhanu.

In This pasuram : கதிர்

Chandramsuh (VS 281)

The One in the form of the rays of Moon.

Bhagavan is like the Chandramsuh, the ray of the moon, which is cooling to those, whose minds are scorched by the taapa, heat of samsara.

He functions like the cool moonlightto bestow relief from heat- to those who meditate on Him.

In This pasuram : மதியம்

Simhah (VS 200 , 488)

The Destroyer of our papas. He removes, destroys all the papas of beings, who merely remembering Him sincerely.

The one who is like a Lion. Because of His valour like the lion, The Lord is Simha.

The Lord as Narasimha. (His avathara)

In This pasuram : சிங்கம்

Parjanya: (VS 810)

The One who Blesses like cloud.

Parjanya is the rain bearing cloud . In the form of these clouds, He blesses the earth with rains and cools the earth and hence Parjanya. He is parjanya as He rains on us the various desirable karmaphalas , which are of the nature of sukha and fulfils the desires of people.

The rain brings down the heat so too Lord brings down the taapaas, the heat of our three fold afflictions, Aadyathmika, Aadhidaivika and, Aadhibautika. By granting true Jnanam about His own self, He behaves like a Cloud removing all thee kinds of Sultriness and sufferings.

In This pasuram : கார்

(To Be Contd)

Andal Thiruppavai

2011-10-17T07:06:00.004+05:30

Andal

About Andal

Andal was a 10th century Tamil poet who is revered as a saint in the southern parts of India. Infact, she is considered as one of the twelve Alvars (saints) and the only woman Alvar (saint) Alvars She is also believed to be an incarnation of Sri Bhumi Devi, the Divine Consort of Sriman Narayana (a manifestation of Lord Vishnu). Andal Thiruppavai, the compilation of devotional poems sung by her, is still recited by devotees during the month of Margazhi.

Early Life

The life history of Andal tells us that a person named Vishnucitta found her, as a little baby girl, under a Tulsi plant in the temple garden of Srivilliputtur. (in southern TamilNadu) He gave her the name of Goda, meaning 'the gift of Earth'. Vishnucitta brought her up in an atmosphere of love and devotion towards the Lord. The intensity of her love and dedication towards the Lord grew so much that she decide to marry Sri Ranganatha, a form of Lord Vishnu.

Unusual Offering

As per Andal biography, as she grew, her determination to marry Lord Ranganatha also increased. She also started making a unique offering to the Lord. She used to wear a flower garland first herself and then offer it to God. As an explanation, she said that first wanted to see whether the garland looked good or not by wearing it herself and looking in the mirror. Only after she was convinced that the garland looked nice, did she offer it to God.

One day, her father saw her doing this and admonished her from repeating this act. Goda made a new garland for the Lord. It is said that the same night, Vishnucitta received a vision from the Lord, who told him that He heartily accepted Goda's offerings. From that day onwards, Goda came to be known as "Andal", the girl who "ruled" over the Lord.

Marrying the Lord

As Andal reached the marriageable age of 15, her father asked her to get married. She replied that she would marry only Sri Ranganatha. It is believed that after this incident, Vishnucitta again received a divine vision, in which the Lord instructed him to send Andal to Sri Ranganatha Temple. At the same time, the priests at Sri Ranganatha Temple also received a vision where the Lord ordered them to prepare for the marriage. It is said that after reaching Sri Ranganatha Temple, Andal married the Lord.

ThirukkalyaNam by Visaka Hari

Thiruppavai and Nachchiyar TirumoZhi

Andal composed two poetic works in her lifetime, both in Tamil. Even though she compiled the poems in her teenage years, they display a high level of literary and religious maturity. Her first work is known as Andal Thiruppavai. It is compilation of thirty verses, in which she imagines herself to be a cowherd girl who longs to serve Lord Krishna. The second compilation is known as Nachchiyar Tirumozhi, consisting of 143 verses. Through this poem, she disclosed her passionate yearning for Lord Vishnu.

திருப்பாைவ THIRUPPAVAI

Andal, like Sita Piratti was born at Rangamannar’s nandavanam, just like the

ethereal fragrance of the tulasi growing nearby. After she attained a

marriageable age, when Periyazhwar was searching for a groom, Andal said, “If

you get me married to mere mortals, I shall not wish to live, I shall not allow

you to do so, I shall get wed to Paraman alone”. Whenever Azhwar used to sing

the glories of the Perumals of the hundred and eight divya deshams, and

whenever he mentioned about Arangan, His divine form and the beauty of His

thirumeni, she used to feel mesmerized and shed tears of joy and at the same

time feel thrilled. She, like the gopikas of Nandagokulam, decided to get

married to Kannan alone and adorned Herself with attire similar to that of the

Gopis and would talk hours together like them and observed the “Paavai” nombu

or festival. These actions were sung by her as Thiruppavai. This is also

referred to as Godai Tamizh that is “

ஒரு ெபண்ணின் தமிழ்” a girl’s tamizh.

The Tamizh sung by those born as a female. Other divyaprabandhams are

tamizh, which have been basically sung by Azhwars who were male with naayaka

naayakibhavam or bridal mysticism.

Thiruppavai can give one a divine experience of unity with Bhagavan.

மதுைரயில் சங்கப்பலைக ஏற்றுக்ெகாண்ட பாக்கைளக் ெகாண்டது” – It is based

on those pasurams which were accepted by the changa palakai at Madhurai,

that is Thiruvaimozhi. Kodai says “

சங்க தமிழ் மாைல முப்பதும் தப்பாேம”, one

who sings this garland of pasurams in changattamizh, shall definitely get the

divine blessings of Thirumal. There are certain periods for Vedam, when it

should not be recited, but for a few days, Thiruppavai can be recited at all

other times. The shastras taught to us by our parents are two in number. The

first one being Geethai taught by our father Kannan. The other one being

taught to us is by our mother, which is Thiruppavai. Its glory is said thus

“

ேவதம் அைநத்துக்கும் வித்தாகும்”, that is Vedam is the basis for everything.

And so it is said that one who does not know these (5 +( 5 x 5) = 30) thirty

pasurams of Thiruppavai is a burden to the earth. There are six main topics in

Thiruppavai –

1. Paavai nombu – The observance of paavai festival

2. Going together for observing the paavai nombu

3. Awakening Kannan

4. Singing the glories of Kannan

5. Preaching

6. Sharanagathi or Self surrender

Andal talks about the above in the same order mentioned.

Andal becomes an acharya to Bhagavan for having taught him of his own duties.

The shastras proclaim that a pupil can eat the left overs of his acharya. It is

for the same reason as to why Rangamannar wishes to adorn the flower garland

of Andal after her having worn it. This is conveyed by her name “

சூடிக்ெகாடுத்த நாச்சியார்”. Just like Gopis, Andal takes all her friends and others to observe

the festival of paavai and having preached them the ultimate truths, helps

everyone to perform sharanagathi at the lotus feet of the Lord to attain the eternal bliss of moksham.

Andal composed 30 Verses of Thiruppavai in a Structured Manner. First Five Pasurams Tells about Five Forms of Lord Vishnu - Param , viyuham, Vibhavam, Antharyamithvam , Archai.

(For blessing the bhaktha’s with His dharshan He takes His abode in five different places, Param, Vyuham, Vibavam, Antharyamithvam, Archai.)

In Next 10 Pasurams 10 of Her Friends are woken up to join their Holy mission. Next 15 Pasurams tell about Their Mission Of Meeting Lord Krishna.

(5 + (5 x 5) = 30) thirty pasurams of Thiruppavai are Eloborations of First 5 pasurams in the following 25.

Andal Vaibhavam

Sri Villiputhur

Search Engine Submission - AddMe

Ragam Hindholam

2011-10-16T08:45:00.003+05:30

Hindolam

Let Me share The Beauty Of Raga Hindolam which I Like Very Much. Long Ago When i was listening to Chennai All India Radio Music Concert in a Quite Night ( They used to Air a Full Concert of an artist in FM Channel) For an hour. It was Namagirippettai Krishnan rendering a Melodius number in Nathaswaram, and immediately Recorded using my National Panosonic Tape Recorder.It was Mysore VauDevachar's " Mamavthu Sri Sarawathi " in Hindolam. That is how i was attracted to this charming Hindolam. Then I got Tarangini Cassette that had a live Recording of Jesudas Presenting , now famous

'Samaja vara gamana' of Thyagaraja in the Raha Hindolam.Jesudas in his mesmerizing beautified Hindolam with Alapana , Kirthanai and Niraval. Later at the advent of TV, Chennai DD ( Single Channel days) There was a Jugalbandhi by Lalkudi Jayaraman in violin and And Amjad Ali Khan in Sarod. It was a lively concert and entire Program was devoted to Hindolam and Malkouns.I recorded the audio part of it.

I have a huge collection of Cassettes, CDs , Videos, ,Book On Music specifically on Hindolam.

In the Present Net connected i gadget days, a lot of detailed information in many forms are available.I have Tried put together some of it for the benifit of Music lovers and Hindolam lovers who Read my Blogs.

Structure and Lakshana

Hindolam scale with shadjam at C

Hindolam is a symmetric rāgam that does not contain rishabham and panchamam. It is a pentatonic scale (audava-audava rāgam ^[1]^[2] in Carnatic music classification - audava means 'of 5'). Since pentatonic scales can be found in other world music such as Chinese music, shades of Mohanam and Hindolamcan sometimes be traced in Chinese and east Asian music. Its ārohaṇa-avarohaṇa structure (ascending and descending scale) is as follows (see swaras in Carnatic music for details on below notation and terms):

ārohaṇa : S G2 M1 D1 N2 S
avarohaṇa : S N2 D1 M1 G2 S

This rāgam uses the swaras sadharana gandharam, shuddha madhyamam, shuddha dhaivatham and kaisiki nishadham. Hindolam is not a melakartarāgam, since it does not contain all the seven swaras.

Experts in Carnatic music hold differences of opinion on the janaka rāgams (rāgams of origin) that should be attributed to Hindolam. It is widely accepted that 20th melakarta, Natabhairavi is the parent rāgam of Hindolam, but some would like to associate it with 8th melakarta,Hanumatodi.^[1]^[2] It can be derived from both, by dropping the rishabham and panchamam.

Hindolam in Karnatak music corresponds to Malkauns in the Hindustani system. The notes taken by this meditative ragaare shadja, sadharana gandhara, suddha madhyama, suddha dhaivata and kaisiki nishada. The madhyama is the swara that lends charm to it and thedhaivata and nishada are the jiva swaras, those that impart soul. Dikshitar says “Gauri Hindola dyuti heera mani maya abharaney” in the kritiNeerajakshi Kamakshi. In concerts, the most often sung Hindolam kriti is certainly Samaja vara gamana of Thyagaraja. Mamavathu Sri Saraswati of Mysore Vasudevachar, Nambikettavar by Papanasam Sivan and Chintayami Jagadamba are other favourites in Hindolam.TM Soundararajan sang the hugely popular devotional piece Karpanai endraalum in a private album in Hindolam.

Man tadpat Hari darsan ko from Baiju Bawra, in Naushad's music and sung by Rafi, is a masterpiece in Malkauns. It is said that Mohammad Rafi did not accept any remuneration for this song; he was so happy to sing for Naushad.Tu chhupi hai kahan in the voices of Manna Dey and Asha Bhonsle from the film Navrang, in C Ramchandra's music, is yet another memorable Malkauns melody. The soulful Aye sur ke panchi aye sung by Rajan-Sajan Mishra in the film Sur Sangam bears the unmistakable Malkauns stamp.

Saamaja vara gamana by the maestro Thyagaraja is the most popular composition in Hindolam. Mamavathu Shree Saraswathi by Mysore Vasudevachar is another popular composition. Here are some more kritis composed in Hindolam.

Govardhana girisam smarami by Muthuswami Dikshitar

Sama gana lolane by G. N. Balasubramaniam

Nambi kettavar evar by Papanasam Sivan

Maa Ramanan by Papanasam Sivan

Govardhana Giridhari, Samaja vara gamana by Thyagaraja

Padmanabha Pahi by Swathi Thirunal

Deva Devam Bhaje by Annamacharya

Kondalalo Nelakonna by Annamacharya

Maa Mavathu Shree by Mysore Vasudevachar

I list Some Interesting Links On Hindolam:

Hindolam - Isai Payanam by Ms Charulatha Mani

Raga Bhavam _ Hindolam

Sri Kunnakudi presents-Raghavaibhavam-Hindolam

Samaja Varagamana - Yesudas

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQG7uZcRYwc

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SitddgqnONM

ragasinfilmmusic.- HINDOLAM

Raga Alapana - TN Seshagopalan

"Man tadpat Hari darsan ko" In Malkouns byMd. Rafi

Pachai Ma Mali Pol Meni Azhvar Paruram Sung By Unni Krishnan

Subham

Navarathri 2011

2011-10-07T21:52:00.003+05:30

Navarathri 2011

The festival of Navrathri is called Kolu or Navratri Golu, where women set up decorated Steps in the house and decorating it with dolls which are collected over the years. The origin of the word Kolu can be traced to Tamil Kolu or Telugu Koluvai, which means a sovereign sitting in his royal durbar. As per belief the concept of arranging these Navrathri dolls is to depict that Goddess Mahishasuramardini is sitting in her Kolu, prior to the slaying of the demon Mahishasura.

The dolls are only decorated during these ten days but the collection of dolls may have started over years. These dolls can be very simple to very complicated ones as per ones likes. Every year women enthusiastically arrange these dolls as per their tastes. They either re modify the existing dolls with some new additions or they add couple of new dolls to the existing stacks to decorate the plank every year.
various Gods are arranged here. The kumbham or the ceremonial jar for holy water, which is a conical vessel, is filled with fresh water. A silk cloth covers the mouth of the vessel, a coconut and mango leaves are placed on top of it. This is kept on the first step.

These Navratri dolls are arranged in several tiers. Maximum no of tiers in which dolls are arranged are 9 depending on time and space constraints.

Kolu Festival at Our Home This Year.

We Bought a New 5 Steps Slotted Angle Assembly from KhadiCraft. Kolu Was Arranged on Amavasya Day. We have a large Collection of Dolls Saved over period of Time. Some of The dolls are more than 100 Years old , and Preserved for Display in Every Year's Kolu. Dolls Included Ashtalakshmis, Azhvars,Kailayam, Aarupadai Veedu, Brindavanaththil Kannan Arranged as Sets.

Arranging Navrathri Kolu is also an event in itself it means inviting neighbors, friends and other relatives to visit your home and view the Kolu decorated. Search For This years Gift Lead us to T Nagar , and a Circulat Box with Floral Design Was Chosen. This Box with a small mirror, turmeric, comb, beetle leaves with supari was given to Friends and Relatives as Small Presentation to mark the Occasion.
Highlight of this Years Kolu was a Music Concert by My Music Guru Thepperumanur Ramachandran on Sunday 2nd Oct 2011. Br. Pavithraji Graced The occasion. We had an invited audience of 40Plus Friends and Close Relatives.
I am Happy to Share some Photos and Videos taken on this occasion.

Photos in Face Book

Thepperumanallore Sri Ramamoorthi ', Music Performance Held in our Home On the occation of Navarathri 2011

Video Of Music Program

Balaji's Page: Vittal Das Bhajans

2011-10-02T08:53:00.005+05:30

VittalDas Bhajans

Divyanam Bhajan

Ayodya Ke Raja

Shyama Shyama

Sithapathi Rama Chandra Ki jai

Thirupathi Venkata ramana
Prabho Ganapathe
kuzhandaiya,
Nagara sankirthanam - Chennai
Pandu Ranga
Jaya Jaya Krishna
Radha Kalyanam

Srimushnam Bhoo Varaha swamy

2011-08-21T09:54:00.002+05:30

Srimushnam Bhoo Varaha swamy
Located 35kms West of Chidambaram in the Kattu Mannar Koil Taluk is the historical Bhoo Varaha Swamy temple in Sri Mushnum. Unlike typical moolavar deities in Vishnu temples, the Lord here is in the form of a small idol signifying the Varaha Avataaram. A visit even once to this temple and sincere prayers to Lord Bhoo Varahaswamy is said to help attain moksham in this lifetime, such is the power of Bhoo Varahar.
We worshiped PerumaL on 14th August 2011.

The main deity is not a sculpted idol but an udbhavamurthy of saligrama shilai. It is said that lord vishnu resides in this particular place in three forms. One in the form of tree outside the temple, as the banks of the sacred tank (nithya pushkarni) and in the form of Bhoovaraha Swamy.

Varaha

Varaha (Sanskrit: वराह) is the third Avatar of the Hindu Godhead Vishnu, in the form of a Boar. He appeared in order to defeat Hiranyaksha, a demonwho had taken the Earth (Prithvi) and carried it to the bottom of what is described as the cosmic ocean in the story. The battle between Varaha andHiranyaksha is believed to have lasted for a thousand years, which the former finally won. Varaha carried the Earth out of the ocean between his tusks and restored it to its place in the universe. Vishnu married Prithvi (Bhudevi) in this avatar.

Varaha is depicted in art as either purely animal or as being anthropomorphic, having a boar's head on a man's body. In the latter form he has four arms, two of which hold the wheel and conch-shell while the other two hold a mace, sword or lotus or make a gesture (or "mudra") of blessing. The Earth is held between the boar's tusks.

The avatar symbolizes the resurrection of the Earth from a pralaya (deluge) and the establishment of a new kalpa (cosmic cycle).

The Varaha Purana is a Purana in which the form of narration is a recitation by Varaha.

Prarthana Sthalam
This is a Prarthana Sthalam for childless couples. Ladies, who have bath in the Nithya Pushkarani, go around the Arasa tree 12times, offer milk and fruits to small kids and recite the Varaha Kavacham are said to be blessed with Children.Santhana Gopalan positioned at uthsavamoorthy.This is also a prarthana sthalam for the unmarried.

While BhooVarahar is a Swayambu idol, the temple here in Srimushnum is said to have been constructed by Four Nayak kings- Achuthappa, Ananthappa, Govindappa and Kondappa Nayak.Beautiful Front mandapam has depiction of Dasavatharas, Boovarahaswami, Ambujavallithayar in Huge paintings.

Also Visit http://bbjee.blogspot.com/2011/11/sholingur-yoga-narasimhar.html
http://prtraveller.blogspot.com/2009/11/srimushnam-bhoo-varahaswamy.html
http://wikimapia.org/716826/Arulmigu-Bhoovaragaswamy-Temple-Srimushnam

Sri Vittal Rukmani Temple - Govindapuram

2011-08-21T08:23:00.002+05:30

Sri Vittal Rukmani Temple
The Temple is the result of Untiring Effort of Sri Vittal Das, Who has Constructed this Great Temple of This age, by Performing Namasankirthanam in many parts of India. This Temple in Govindapuram Village (Dhakshina Pandari Puram) , about 15 Kms from Kumbakonam, in Thanjavur District.The Gopuram (main tower) of the Temple is 132 ft tall. The sight of the huge Gopuram is a divine treat to watch.A huge Kalasam crowns the Maha Gopuram. The Kalasam itself is 18 ft high.Mahamandapam, where Swamy’s Palli Arai (Sayana Mandapam) is constructed - is an unique structure, as it has an Artistic Dome, which is visible from inside too. The Dome is of South Indian architectural design.Vasantha Mandapam is a piller less huge hall, where Namasankeerthanam, Bhajans, Upanyasams and various uthsavams like Radha Kalyanam etc., will be held. This hall can accommodate more than 2000 Bakthas at a time . The ceiling of the vasantha Mandapm is decorated with fiber class Printing.The Mahadhwar (main entrance) of the Temple is of Maharashtrian style and is a 80 ft tall structural beauty, with a width of 62 ft..Large size of decorative depictions of 16 various Leelas (divine actions) of Lord Sri Krishna, sculptured in high quality wood are fixed inside the premises .
Devotees can go near the Deities of Vittal and Rukmani and Perform Padaseva. At behest of Sri Sri Vittaldas Maharaj, 100 Crore VITTAL Nama Pathram was kept right beneath the Lotus Feet of Sri Vittal & Sri Rakumayi .The Prethista of the same was done on Ashadi Ekadasi July11 2011 .The entire Temple is fully Air-conditioned for the convenience of the visiting devotees. The Kumbabhishekam of the Temple was performed in a grand manner on 15th July 2011. We worshiped in the Temple which is an Architectural marvel, on 15th August 2011.
There is a Well maintained Goshala. Protection of Cows Go Samrakshanam has become the need of the day to revive the nation from the downfall from these sinful deeds and restore prosperity, peace and harmony. Towards this noble cause, a Goshala is functioning inside Sri Vittal Rukmini Samsthan premises. A unique feature of this Goshala is that the Cows are of Sri Brindhavan, Sri Govardhan, Sri Dwaraka origin and descendants of cows grazed by Lord Sri Krishna Himself. Hence this Goshala is rightly named Sri Gokulam. Devoted food, shelter, water, electricity and medical facilities are made available for this Goshala.

We could see a huge surge of Visiting Devotees, who come from various parts including chennai, Andhra and other places of the Country. A lot f construction is on, within the premised. Also Cottage facilities for visiting devotees are being constructed. All can Enjoy bathing in the River Cauvery Flowing Nearby. Photography inside the Temple is not allowed. Food facility is not available nearby.
I Request the Rukmani Vittal Samasthan to create a beautiful Nandavanam with Flowering plants, and name it as Brindavanam.

Imposing Gopuram and Kalasam

Gokulam - GoShala

Sri Vittal Das

Also Visithttp://bbjee.blogspot.com/2011/10/balajis-page-vittal-das-bhajans.html

D xing - Short wave Radio Listening

2010-11-07T18:50:00.000+05:30

DXing is the hobby of tuning in and identifying distant radio or television amateur radio, citizens' band radio or other two way radio communications. Many DXers also attempt to receive written verifications of reception (sometimes referred to as "QSLs" or "veries") from the stations heard. The name of the hobby comes from DX, telegraphic shorthand for "distance" or "distant". D - distance X Unknown. signals, or making two way radio contact with distant stations in

Tuning to short wave radio stations broadcasting for far and wide all over the world is a very interesting and involved hobby. All you need is a Radio Transistor and time to involve in.

Shortwave listening (abbreviated as SWLing) is the hobby of listening to shortwave radio broadcasts located on frequencies between 1700 kHz and 30 MHz. ^[1] Listeners range from casual users seeking international news and entertainment programming to hobbyists immersed in the technical aspects of radio reception and DXing.

In some developing countries, shortwave listening enables remote communities to obtain regional programming traditionally provided by local medium wave broadcasters. Some estimates have placed the number of shortwave listeners worldwide in the millions.

The practice of long distance radio listening began in the 1920s when shortwave broadcasters were first established in the US and Europe. Audiences discovered that international programming was available on the shortwave bands of many consumer radio receivers, and a number of magazines and listener clubs catering to the practice arose as a result. Shortwave listening was especially popular during times of international conflict such as World War II, the Korean War and the Persian Gulf War.

Listeners use inexpensive portable "world band" radio receivers to access the shortwave bands, and some advanced hobbyists employ specialized communications receivers featuring digital technology designed for optimum reception of shortwave signals, along with outdoor antennas to enhance performance.

With the advent of the internet, many international broadcasters have scaled back or terminated their shortwave transmissions in favor of web-based program distribution, while others transition to digital broadcasting modes such as Digital Radio Mondiale that allow more efficient delivery of shortwave programming. The number of organized shortwave listening clubs has diminished along with printed magazines devoted to the hobby, however many enthusiasts continue to exchange information and news on the web.

I got interested into this hobby in late 70s and enjoyed it full. It was a simple Bush Transistor to start with for globe trotting thro medium of short waves. Then it was Philips multi - band set. To day i have sets world radio (Soni and other make) set including one with digital tuner. Many a time It used to be a nuisance to other family members who get irritated as you keep engrossed with radio and forgetting things around you.Some times it used to be late night tuning and you can guess the reaction of members at home.

You really feel delighted to tune and listen to various radio stations . I tuned to station like Radio Guam, some ham radio broad casts. I also tuned from Chennai to various radio broadcasts in languages other than English including Tamil , Sanskrit (A german radi had sanskrit Broadcast).

Listeners often obtain QSL cards from ham operators, broadcasters or utility stations as trophies of the hobby. Traditionally, listeners would send letters to the station with reception reports and requests for schedules. Many stations now accept E-mails or provide reception report forms on their Web sites. Reception reports give valuable information about propagation and interference to a station's engineers.

I have collected many QSL cards from Russia, Holland, Philippines, China, Canada, Guam , Radio Kiev, Radio Moscow and many other station.Postman was knocking the doors every day to deliver bunch of mails.

There are many associations within India and International dedcated to Dxing and shortwave listening.

There are very advanced radio receivers available today with loaded Technical Features and Functions.

Further Links

http://www.dxing.com
http://www.dxing.info
http://www.dxzone.com/catalog/DX_Resources/Clubs

Spiritual Sadhana Camp at Sidhabari (Himalayas).

2010-06-06T14:25:00.002+05:30

Chinmaya Mission Tuticorin organised a Spiritual sadhana Camp at sandipani Ahram in Himachal Pradesh, From 17.05.2010 to 23.10.2010. Br. Pavithra Chaitanya was Camp Acharya. Kapila Geeta and Hamsa geeta were covered during the camp in for Hourly Lecture sessions in Tamil.

The valley of the Siddhas, Sidhbari nestling in the lap of the Himalayas is an awe-inspiring showcase of nature & soul. Swami Chinmayananda chose Sidhbari as a suitable location for a Sandeepany in the Himalayas. Pujya Gurudev must have felt the divine vibrations of the place where Kapila Muni once lived.

As part of the Camp a Spiritual yatra was conducted covering nearby holi shines including Kapila cave , Jwalamuki , Kangda Devi , chamunda Devi and Bhuddist Monastry in Dharamsala.

Nearly 60 Delegates including 9 Balavihar children , from Chennai, Trichy, Tuticorin, Rajapalayam,Thirunelveli, Hydrabad and Mumbai and Pondicherry, joined this Camp. Sri Muthiaji (Affectionately known as ‘Thatha’) aged 80 , a long time Balavihar Sevek, attended and actively participated in the camp proceedings.

Delegates were divided in to Five Groups Named as Jeeelum Chenab, Raavi , Biyas and Sutlej . Every day Each Groups discussed on the Given Topic and made Interesting Presentations. Topics Included Viveka, Relationship and Aatma. Swamiji gave summary remarks and Specific observations.

Evening sessions included Presentations (On chosen Activity) and Bhajans by Balavihar Children. There was a Quiz on Ramayana and Mahabharata for the children. A slide show revived the memorable Hanumanji Consecration function held in Sidhbhari in 1983. Delegates and Children Visited CORD Campus situated close by to Tapovan ashram, and interacted with staff members to know the various activities of CORD.

The Camp was Concluded with Guru Paduka Puja on 23rd May 2010.

Lord Veera Hanuman - Consecrated on: 10th October 1982

Construction of Hanuman Idol began in 1979 and as per Gurudev's Sankalpa, a Veera Hanumanji's idol was to be installed. The well-known sculptor, Sri Kashinath of Shimoga sculpted the cement concrete idol of Hanumanji in Veerasan posture. It is 25 ft tall and rests on a 7 ft granite pedestal. The idol was consecrated on 10th October 1982 by Pujya Gurudev. I was fortunate to attend the Function and Gita Yagna Conducted by Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda.
Veera Hanumanji is seated at Sidhbari under the milky sky, open to the embrace of his father, Vayu, the Wind God. Hanumanji successfully keeps the damaging winds at bay. By worshipping the deity, one gains strength, courage, fame, alertness, eloquence and wisdom. As Swami Tejomayananda says, 'Lord Hanuman is the embodiment of all great divine qualities put together - Devotion, Dedication, Service, Dispassion, Strength, Humility, Knowledge and every other virtue!'
Once in five years a consecration ceremony (Mahamastakabhishekam) of the idol is performed for which devotees from all parts of the world gather.

Veera Hanuman

Camp Participants

Br. Pavithara Chaitanya

Himalayas

Also Visit : http://bbjee.blogspot.com/2011/11/chinmaya-tapovan-ashram-sidhabari.html

Rafting in Manali

2008-06-01T06:16:00.000+05:30

White water Rafting on River Beas - Manali

The magic behind River Rafting which is also referred, as White Water Rafting is the extreme and never-ending thrills in the untamed rivers. The rivers in the upper Himalayas are among the best in the world for river rafting sports, with many staircase rapids that challenge the body and spirit of the river runner. The river cuts against the rocky banks, crash into rocks, crevices and breaking into white water rapids, foaming, swirling, and falling in a thunderous din.

We experienced the Thrill and Excitement of River Rafting om Beas River in Manali on 26th May 2008

White water river rafting is done at a place “PIRDI” , about 4kms from Kullu on the river Beas,which flows out of the molten Snow/Glaciers from the Himalayas & hence the water is icy-cold even in Summer.The stretch was of 14kms in total.

We Gruop of Eight , Four of them were Youngsters put on our safety accessories - Life jacket, Helmet . Our instructor gave four members of young Brigade , the paddles & explained in short how to use them. These instructors are well experience and mostly from Tibet. They all speak Very good English.

Rubber boat was checked for Right Inflation Pressure, Ropes were Checked for Tightness. Our Rafting Trip started at around 10.30 AM in a sunny day. Three other rafting team followed us. There was a captain leading the rafts sailing at the front. He was on a one man fibre Boat. He guides the teams on routs , direction . Where there is a high swirl he ensures that all the boats cross the swirl and then moves towards front. The initial couple of kms were quite smooth actually. After 2-3 kms, the real fun started.

Rapids started coming in at a much faster rate. One big wave splashed on us and icy-cold Beas water made us remember that this isn’t as easy as it seems.Then we went to an even turbulent section. While we were paddling with vigor, the eddies became even more wider. The guide in our boat keep duiding with commands " Forward", "Forward again", "Backward", "Stop" and the young brigade followed these.

At exactly the mid-point , i.e. after 7 kms another river Parvati joins River Beas & it becomes the most difficult part since the water-depth also increases. There is a Bridge at 7th Km.

The last 7 kms , our instructor was literally shouting since the waves were coming really thick & fast and we couldn,t hear him.Our entire body had become numb due to the continuous cold water splashing in from Beas . Young Members had great difficulty in moving the paddles, many a time it was on to air rather than water. Whole body became wet due to continuous spashing of water. Water was splashed on us by the members of other boats that were following us closely.

The experience was awesome & though we got a little petrified honestly, we didn't want it to end. Each time negotiate a rapid there was a loud noise, cheers , exclamatory shouts - from young and old alike. It were the most adventurous 90 mins for each one of us as we have experienced the rafting for the first time. We also enjoyed watcing the natural scenin Beauty of mountains, Tall green trees thoughout the Trip.

This was momentous and memorable experience of Thrill , excitement, and Fun which will rewind and remain in memory for a long time

My only regret was that we couldn’t click any photos / videos of rafting experience as we were not allowed to carry Camara, digicam, or mobile.

On Browsing the net after the trip , I came to know of white water rafting locations , Rivers and facilities in India including Rishikesh, Uthranchal etc.

A Visit To Rohtang Pass

2008-05-31T11:26:00.000+05:30

Rohtang Pass is situated about 51 km from Manali town at an altitude of 4,111 meters (13,400 ft.) on the highway to Keylong, is Rohtang Pass. Here one sees the majesty of the mountains at its height and splendour. In place of the pinnacled hills, sheltered valleys and cultivated tracts, the eye meets a range of precipitous cliffs, huge glaciers and piled Moraine, and deep ravines. Almost directly opposite is the well defined Sonepani glacier, slightly to the left are the twin peaks of the Geypang, jagged pyramids of rock, snow streaked and snow crowned.

Rohtang Pass is the highest point, 4,112m, on the Manali-Keylong road, 51-km from Manali town. It provides a wide panoramic view of mountains rising far above clouds, which is a sight truly breath-taking. It offers only limited skiing opportunities, but trekking possibilities are immense.
The pass is open from June to September, although trekkers can cross the pass from May. Beyond Rohtang pass lies the remote and, perhaps, the stark and haunting landscape of predominantly Buddhist areas. The comparative inaccessibility of the place has helped preserve the pristine culture of the people of the region.

We Left Manali on 25th May 2008 , very early in the morning by a Tata Sumo. Our Team compraised 10 members. Rabi , the Driver of the Vehicle informed us that he has 20 years of Driving Experience. Driver stopped at a shop which is renting Winter robes including full apron, , Rubber Boots, a Cap, pair of Glouse and a Stick. Ladies can get dress of suitable sizes. We have seen a no of such shops on the way to Rohtang pass. Each shop is numbered , so that one can note the shop number to return the Dress on the way back.

The Entire route of 51 Hilly roadway is simply breathtaking. Only a highly skilled Driver can drive safely with confidance and ease. There was an army convoy of Supply vehicles (Presumably moving towards Leh) ahaed of us. So vehicles including ours had to stop for some time.

There were many Tiny shops Selling - Tea , coffee , Noodles, Corn, Soft Drinks. It was very nice to enjoy a cup of Hot Tea sitting in that snow peaks.

As nearing rohtang we can see patches of snow bedded mountains, Streams flowing from molten ice, and starting point of River Beas.Though this pass has earned the title of being a little obnoxious and dangerous due to its unpredictable snowstorms and high winds, every tourist yearns to visit Rohtang pass in Himachal Pradesh. Rohtang pass is considered as the world's highest jeepable road. The climate on the day was very pleasing, and no rains. It was sunny all the way.
Our Jeep stopped very close to Zero Point. Oh What a scene - White carpetted surface every where. Just started walking over the cool icy Surface with the support of walking stick. We felt the chillness inside the Rubber Boot - on the Heel and toes. Alraedy there were scores of Tourists - Children , adults and of all ages. Very colourful dresses as seen all over the snow bed.

Every one has a way and facility to enjoy with fun - Skating, Bike Skating, Horse skating, Push cart, Tube sliding. some of Our team members tried skating. There are many tibetian to help to learn basic skills of Each game.

Skiing in Himachal Pradesh is best enjoyed in the Rohtang pass which is covered by snow for nine months of the year. In fact, Rohtang pass in Himachal Pradesh is the only site in India, where one can indulge in skiing in the winters as well as autumn. The most important site for skiing in Rohtang pass is Sonapani glacier. Enjoy a holiday in Himachal Pradesh to enjoy the famous Rohtang pass attractions in Himachal Pradesh that involves the popular adventures in Rohtang pass.

At the top of the Rohtang Pass the air seems to glitter against the snow as you look down over herring boned ridges into the Lahaul Valley. There is a beautiful Doshohar Lake left to the pass, where pilgrims go every year on the auspicious day of 20th Bhadon. Rohtang Pass is the only access to Lahaul valley. The pass is open from June to September each year although trekkers can across the pass a little earlier. Rohtang pass is the gateway to Lahaul valley just as Zojila pass in between Kashmir valley and Ladakh.

The Beas river rises near the crest of Rohtang from a block of Mica-Schist. The pass normally opens for traffic after mid-June and officially closes in November. To its left, 200 metres higher, is the little lake of Sarkund (Dashair) visited by a number of people, the general belief being that a bath in these waters effects a cure of all bodily ailments-real or imaginary. 10 km before Rohtang is the barren-landscape of Marhi which hums with activity during summer and autumn months because almost everyone stops here for refreshments.

It is Very Enjoyable and Scenic Spot and ofcourse Photographer's Delight. It Was a pleascent , memorable Trip.

Some Tips :

- Start From Manali at early in the morning Before 6.00 AM ( Otherwise your vehicle can get caught in traffic jam and may nor get closet to Zero point.
- Carry Wollen dresses - Socks,Glouse, Sweatter, Wollen Trouser.
- Dark Cooling Glass is a must- To avoid Sun Glare.
- Persons with Breating problem, Asthma need to go prepared with madicines - Oxygen Level is low. Avoid Break fast while driving Uphill.
- Mobiles are of No use - No signal there.

Nature and We

2008-05-01T17:57:00.000+05:30

Nature manifest In many forms. Hinduism has always been an environmentally sensitive philosophy. No religion, perhaps, lays as much emphasis on environmental ethics as Hinduism. The Mahabharata, Ramayana, Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, Puranas and Smriti contain the earliest messages for preservation of environment and ecological balance. Nature, or Earth, has never been considered a hostile element to be conquered or dominated. In fact, man is forbidden from exploiting nature. He is taught to live in harmony with nature and recognize that divinity prevails in all elements, including plants and animals. The rishis of the past have always had a great respect for nature. Theirs was not a superstitious primitive theology. They perceived that all material manifestations are a shadow of the spiritual. The Bhagavad Gita advises us not to try to change the environment, improve it, or wrestle with it. If it seems hostile at times tolerate it. Ecology is an inherent part of a spiritual world view in Hinduism.

he rhythm of life is dictated by water and Hindus hold rivers in great reverence. India is a country that not only nurtures the resources nature has bestowed upon her, but also worships them for the all-round prosperity they bring in their wake. Rivers are one such gift which are considered highly sacred throughout the length and breadth of the country. This is primarily because these mighty rivers have perennially been a source of livelihood to millions of people living in areas lying along their courses. No wonder people see in them a manifestation of divine female power (shakti). "Sindhu in might surpasses all the streams that flow.... His roar is lifted up to heaven above the earth; he puts forth endless vigour with a flash of light .... Even as cows with milk rush to their calves, so other rivers roar into the Sindhu. As a warrior- king leads other warriors, so does Sindhu lead other rivers.... Rich in good steeds is Sindhu, rich in gold, nobly fashioned, rich in ample wealth.'' - Rig Veda "Ambitame, naditame, devitame, Sarasvati"- "O best of mothers, O best of rivers, O best of goddesses, Sarasvati"

About 4,500 years ago the Sarasvati was eulogized thus in the Rig Veda.One of the sad effects of progress is destruction of environment and with it nature.
Large-scale deforestation, pollution of air, introduction of toxic chemicals in rivers and
oceans and general march of our present technological progress is depleting biodiversity.
American heritage dictionary defines nature as “The order, disposition and essence of all
entities composing the physical universe” or in essence the biosphere. Some critics of
environmental movements contend that if some living species do get annihilated due to our
activities still we are part of nature. They also contend that our technological march is an
evolutionary process, which automatically allows reduction of biodiversity. Their argument
may carry weightage if our technological progress is environmentally sustainable but at
present we do not understand all the natural forces surrounding us and hence we are not
working in tune with them. Eventually we may, but till that time we need to conserve nature
and biodiversity. Hence we should be concerned about nature’s destruction for if we destroy
nature we will loose valuable genetic information and with that a possible mechanism to
evolve efficiently and sustainably.
How Nature