Happy 79th Independence Day!

Rakhi Festival at “Srilekha”, over the years!

“Sri Raghavam Dasharatha Athmajam” – Shloka, and its meaning

 

The Shloka "Sri Raghavam Dasharatha Athmajam" is a prayer to Lord Rama, praising his virtues and seeking his blessings. It describes Rama as the son of Dasharatha, the husband of Sita, and a great warrior who destroyed demons. The shloka is a way to invoke his divine presence and seek protection and guidance. 

The above video is the rendition of this Shloka by Smt. N. Lalitha Raghu

In essence, the Shloka translates to: "I bow to Sri Rama, the son of Dasharatha, the immeasurable, the husband of Sita, the jewel of the Raghu dynasty, having arms that reach his knees and eyes like lotus petals, the destroyer of demons."

The meaning of the Shloka in detail goes as follows:

Sri Raghavam: "To Sri Rama," the revered descendant of King Raghu.

Dasharatham: "Son of Dasharatha."

Atmajam: "Son."

Aprameyam: "Immeasurable, boundless, or infinite."

Sitapatim: "Husband of Sita."

Raghukulanvaya Ratnadipam: "The lamp (or jewel) of the Raghu dynasty."

Ajanubahum: "Having arms that reach to the knees."

Aravinda Dalayataksham: "Having eyes like lotus petals."

Ramam: "To Rama."

Nishachara Vinashakaram: "Destroyer of demons (or night walkers)."

Namami: "I bow down, I salute." 

With Mugs of Memories! Amidst Incessant Rain!

 

For three days, the rain has softly stayed,

Veiling skies in a dark shade.

The air is damp, the wind wears chill,

And coffee cups with family pics begin to fill.

Steam rises like a whispered tale,

Of warmer times in sunlit trails.

Each mug is a frame from days gone by,

Love and laughter frozen, spirits high.

Faces beam from ceramic gloss,

Moments held without time’s loss.

Family, friends in printed cheer,

Now warming hands when they’re not near.

These mugs don’t just hold caffeine,

They cradle echoes in between.

A sip, a smile, a thought of then,

Hope we all soon meet again.

Rainfall in Hyderabad

When rain falls hard in Hyderabad,

The streets become a watery bed.

Cars get stuck, and people run,

Their journey home, now barely begun.

But in my house, called 'Srilekha',

I'm warm and safe, no rain problem/Kasta/కష్టా 🙂

Hot food and drinks, a cosy cheer,

While outside, troubles reappear.

I watch the news, my heart feels low,

For those caught out in the rain's flow.

I wish them home, out of the plight,

Safe and sound, before the night.

Diamond Jubilee of Bhadrachalam Bridge.

It has been 60 years since the opening of the road bridge over the River Godavari to Bhadrachalam, the temple town. Until the bridge was inaugurated on 13 July 1965 by President Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, the only way to reach Bhadrachalam from Telangana and the surrounding towns and villages was by crossing the river using steamers, and in summer, by boats and steamers. From the Rajahmundry side, it was always by steamer, as the road connection was only available from Khammam, where this bridge is situated.

This bridge was a great gift to pilgrims visiting Sri Sitaramachandra Swamy temple, Bhadrachalam, and to the people of Bhadrachalam and villages, and towns on that side of the State.

The above photographs are of the ‘inauguration slab’ of the bridge and of my father, Sri N. Bhaskarachary, greeting the President with Namaskaram.

The Crescent That Connects Across Time 🌙

Over the course of a lifetime, from the innocence of childhood to the seasoned calm of the seventies, faces change, memories fade, and old acquaintances often drift into the fog of time. It’s natural. Most people, after long gaps, struggle to recognise familiar faces from the past. Names slip away, relationships grow distant, and time does its quiet work.

Yet, I have experienced something rather curious, something I’ve come to see as a quiet marvel. Despite the years gone by, people from different stages of my life often recognise me, not just by face, but by name and connection. This article is a reflection on that wonder, and perhaps the reason behind it, a reason etched, quite literally, onto my forehead.

I carry a prominent crescent-shaped birthmark (5 cm long) on my forehead, curved like a sliver of moonlight in a clear night sky. It has been with me since birth, an ever-present symbol, a quiet but visible part of who I am. Unlike marks that remain hidden, facial birthmarks are part of the immediate impression we give the world. They become intertwined with how we are remembered. And in my case, this distinct crescent has followed me through time as an ageless identifier.

Over the years, this mark has become more than a quirk of nature. It has become a companion, one that sparks curiosity, invites conversation, and connects me to stories far older than my own. People often stop and ask about it, especially when meeting me for the first time. Their interest opens the door to discussions on identity, belief, and the strange, beautiful ways in which the universe touches each of us.

While I don’t believe it holds any magical powers, I do find meaning in the symbolism it carries. In many cultures, and particularly in ancient Hindu lore, birthmarks are considered more than skin-deep. They are seen as divine imprints, fingerprints of fate. And when such a mark takes the shape of a crescent moon, it becomes something more: a talisman, a cosmic emblem.

In Hindu mythology, the crescent moon rests in the matted locks of Lord Shiva himself. It symbolises the cycle of time, the rhythm of creation, and the calming, eternal presence of the Mahadeva. I still remember how elders, upon noticing my birthmark, would pause thoughtfully and say with reverence, “That’s the mark of Shiva’s gaze. He’s watching over you.”

Whether that’s true or not, I hold the sentiment close. It brings comfort, a sense of connection to something vast and timeless. Perhaps it is this mark, this symbol of memory and divinity, that helps people remember me even after decades have passed.

So, here I am in my seventies, still greeted with familiarity, still called by name, and still carrying the crescent moon on my brow, my lifelong companion and silent storyteller.

🙏 Thank you, Lord Shiva, for your watchful gaze and for continuing to bless my family and me.

A Heartwarming Father's Day Celebration – 2025!

In our father’s quiet strength, we find our way,

A guiding light by night and day.

With every smile and every care,

A father's love is always there.

The Father's Day celebration (15th June 2025) was truly special for our family. We gathered at a cozy restaurant, surrounded by love, laughter, and some delicious food. It was a day to pause and celebrate the quiet strength, care, and guidance that fathers bring into our lives every single day. We were three fathers at the celebration, Sudhir, Srikanth and I.

Sharing stories, exchanging smiles, and simply being together made the occasion even more meaningful. The joy of family time was captured beautifully in the photos we took, each one a reminder of moments we’ll always cherish.

I take this opportunity to wish all fathers in the family a very Happy Father’s Day!

Our Visit to Sri Panduranga Swamy Temple, Chilakalapudi

 

While holidaying recently at a beach resort in Chirala, nestled in the Bapatla District of Andhra Pradesh, our family was unexpectedly blessed with an opportunity that turned our coastal holiday into a spiritually fulfilling journey. On the 6th of June, 2025, we made a serene visit to the sacred Sri Panduranga Swamy Temple at Chilakalapudi, located in the historic port town of Machilipatnam, Krishna District, 120 km from where we were holidaying. I visited this temple with my parents when I was around five years old. Although I have no recollection of the visit itself, the photographs clicked then, at the nearby Manginapudi beach, constantly remind me of our trip to Chilakalapudi.

For devotees of Lord Vitthala (Panduranga Swamy/Lord Krishna), this temple holds special significance. It is considered the second most revered shrine of Sri Panduranga Swamy, next only to the famous temple at Pandharpur in Solapur District of Maharashtra. What makes this temple especially divine is that the idol of the Lord here is Swayambhu (self-manifested). The presence of saints and devotees at the time of its manifestation adds to its mystical and spiritual aura. The temple also resembles the one at Pandharpur.

As we stepped into the temple premises, there was an unmistakable sense of peace and reverence in the air. The idol bears an uncanny resemblance to the deity at Pandharpur, standing tall, hands on hips, exuding compassion, patience, and infinite grace. We could feel the same divine energy that millions seek in Pandharpur, right here in Chilakalapudi.

The temple’s origin story added another layer of personal joy for us. We learned that it was constructed by Bhakta Narasimham, a devout Vishwabrahmin (Goldsmith) belonging to the Suparnasa Brahmarishi Gothram, the same lineage that we and Niranjan bava proudly belong to. This shared heritage stirred a deep sense of connection and pride. Knowing that someone from our own Gothram had the divine calling and devotion to build such a sacred space filled our hearts with immense gratitude and inspiration.

Our visit was brief but profound. We left with prasad in hand, peace in our hearts, and blessings that seemed to transcend words. This unexpected spiritual interlude reminded us that the divine often reveals itself in the most unplanned moments, when you're simply open and present.

We hope you'll enjoy these photographs I have attached, which capture the timeless grace of Sri Panduranga Swamy and the serenity of this lesser-known yet powerful temple. Whether you're a devotee of Vitthala or a seeker of quiet sanctity, this gem in Machilipatnam is worth a visit.

May Lord Panduranga’s (Lord Vitthala’s/Lord Krishna’s) blessings be with us all.

coming soon!

This is a timeless capture that warms the heart

Sometimes, the simplest joys come from traditions,

Crispy, flavourful snacks passed down through generations,

Perfect for any time of the day,

And in any season here, or any country far away.

This is a timeless capture that warms the heart.

Where golden crisps and laughter meet,

And age-old recipes whisper comfort sweet,

For every little hunger, and every big smile,

Tradition serves joy, stacked on a plate,

As beautifully as this moment.

Sudhiksha holds the plate just right,

While Lalitha beams with pure delight.

The snacks are crisp, the flavours deep,

But it’s their bond they’ll always keep.

Operation Sindoor: A Triumph of Justice and Resolve

 

In the face of unspeakable tragedy, India has risen, undaunted, unwavering, and united.

The brutal massacre of Hindu tourists at Pahalgam on 22nd April 2025 was not merely a terrorist attack. It was an assault on humanity, on faith, and the spirit of our Nation. Innocent lives were taken in cold blood, men executed before the eyes of their families. The grief that swept across the country was heavy, personal, and unforgettable.

But from that grief emerged a resolve stronger than ever before: ‘Operation Sindoor’.

The launch of Operation Sindoor has been a masterstroke, both in strategic precision and symbolic power. This is not just a military operation; it is a statement. A declaration that India will not bow to fear, will not tolerate terror, and will never forget the death of the innocent.

The name itself, Sindoor, is deeply emotional. In Indian culture, Sindoor is a sacred symbol of marriage, of a woman’s bond to her husband, of family, continuity, and life. To name this mission after it is to reclaim what the terrorists tried to destroy: love, sanctity, and peace. It is a tribute to the women whose lives were shattered, whose Sindoor was stained with blood, not by fate, but by the cowardice of those who kill from the shadows.

Operation Sindoor is our answer.

Executed with precision and unparalleled bravery, the mission has struck deep at the heart of the terrorist infrastructure. Camps have been decimated. Launchpads dismantled. The nation that shelters and breeds these enemies of peace has been given a lesson they will not forget. Our armed forces, intelligence agencies, and government have shown what it means to act with resolve and righteousness.

This mission is more than just retaliation, it is justice.

I salute our soldiers who, with courage in their hearts and duty in their veins, carried out this operation with brilliance and efficiency. I commend the leadership that greenlit such a bold and meaningful move. And I stand with every agency, every operative, every decision-maker who contributed to this proud moment.

Operation Sindoor is a reminder to the world: India is not a silent spectator. We value peace, but we are not afraid of war. We mourn our dead, but we do not surrender. We will protect our people, our culture, and our honour, no matter the cost.

Let every enemy of peace take note. This Nation does not forget. And this Nation will never forgive acts of terror.

Jai Hind!

Bharat Mata ki Jai!

May God continue to be with us.

May peace return, and may justice always prevail.

A Serene Encounter: Sun and Moon Together Over Hussain Sagar Lake

VIDEO:

On a tranquil evening, as the sun began its descent over the horizon, my wife and I found ourselves gazing at a mesmerising scene that felt almost surreal. The sun, in its full round shape, was setting over the serene waters of Hussain Sagar Lake, casting a golden reflection that danced on the surface. But what made this moment truly magical was the presence of the moon, positioned side by side with the sun, as if posing for a photograph. Both celestial bodies were in full round shape, creating a rare and captivating sight.

Hussain Sagar Lake, located in Hyderabad, is a heart-shaped lake known for its picturesque views and the iconic statue of Buddha standing tall in its centre. On this specific evening, the lake was bathed in the warm hues of the setting sun, with the sky painted in shades of orange and gold. The reflection of the sun on the water created a shimmering pathway that led the eye towards the horizon.

In the distance, the Indian flag stood proudly, fluttering gently in the evening breeze. The trees on the small projecting bank within the lake added to the natural beauty of the scene, their silhouettes creating a perfect contrast against the glowing sky.

The sight of the sun and moon together, both in full round shape, was a rare and enchanting moment. It felt as though nature had orchestrated this beautiful display just for us, allowing us to capture photographs and videos that would forever remind us of the serene beauty of Hussain Sagar Lake.

As we stood there, soaking in the tranquillity of the scene, we couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and gratitude for witnessing such a unique and harmonious alignment of the sun and moon. It was a reminder of the simple yet profound beauty that nature offers, and the importance of taking a moment to appreciate these fleeting wonders.