Giant Tiger Prawns! Exotic and Grand!

 

Amidst the whispers of the Bay's embrace,

Where River Godavari finds its grace,

Giant Tiger Prawns, a gift divine,

A feast from distant shores, a friend's design.

Raghu's hands, hold this treasure rare,

Not for sale, but meant for us to share.

From Yanam's heart, where waters blend,

Comes a taste of bonds that never end.

Invitation extended, an evening's delight,

To dine together under evening light.

Fried to perfection, or in curry's embrace,

Or any form that brings taste to grace.

In camaraderie, we shall eat with rice or bread,

With stories spun and laughter spread.

For in the sharing of this culinary delight,

Friendship's flavours find their height.

So let us gather, dear friend of mine,

To savour the prawns, to pour the wine.

In Raghu's gesture, a warmth you'll find,

A friendship banquet, one of a kind.

Revering and cherishing ‘Srilekha’

In Srilekha's embrace, our sacred dwelling,

A heritage spanning generations, compelling.

Named as Goddess Lakshmi's Letter, a blessing profound,

With grace from deities, a home where love is crowned.

Goddesses and Gods from diverse devotion,

A symphony of faith, a harmonious potion.

In Srilekha's halls, laughter takes flight,

A sanctuary of love, bathed in tranquil light.

Four generations' stories are etched on its walls,

Whispers of joy in every corridor it recalls.

From the threshold to corners, memories bloom,

A tapestry of life, Srilekha's sacred rooms.

On this Grihapravesham's anniversary glow,

Nostalgia swirls, like soft winds that blow.

Every room, every nook, a treasury of delight,

In Srilekha's haven, memories take flight.

Through the tapestry of our intertwined lives,

Srilekha, the keeper of cherished archives.

In its shelter, we've grown, we've become,

A legacy of love, brightly shining as the sun.

As we gather today, in reflection and prayer,

For happy times ahead, this moment we share.

May Srilekha's blessings echo through time,

For us and the generations, an eternal rhyme.

Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam

 

Pilgrimage to Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple – A Video:

The Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, also known as the Srirangam Temple, is one of the most prominent and revered Hindu temples in South India. It is located in the town of Srirangam, just 12 km from Tiruchirapalli (Trichy) in Tamil Nadu. The temple is situated on an island formed by the Twin Rivers Cauvery and Kollidam. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, a form of God Maha Vishnu. Lord Ranganatha is also known as Ranganathaswamy, Ranganathar, Sri Ranga, Rangan, Aranganathar, and Thenarangathan.

The temple is renowned for its Dravidian style of architecture and is one of the largest functioning temples in the world. It covers an area of about 156 acres, making it the largest temple in India. The temple complex is adorned with a series of impressive Gopurams (towers), which are monumental entrance towers. The Rajagopuram, the main entrance tower, is one of the tallest in Asia and is a major landmark. The temple has 7 Prakarams, a total of 21 Gopurams, each with intricate sculptures and carvings depicting various stories from Hindu mythology, 39 Mandapams and over 50 Shrines, including the main temple of Sri Ranganathaswamy and an equally grand temple with a golden Vimana (tower), of Goddess Ranganayaki, a form of Goddess Lakshmi Devi, consort of Lord Ranganatha.

The main shrine for Ranganatha is in the innermost courtyard. The sanctum has a golden Vimanam (crown tower over the sanctum sanctorum) which is plated with gold. Inside the sanctum sanctorum is a 20-foot edifice of Ranganathaswamy reclining on Adishesha - the coiled serpent, as Maha Vishnu. Lord Vishnu's head rests on a small cylindrical pillow and his right palm which faces upwards rests next to his head. A pendant containing Lakshmi Devi’s image is placed on Ranganatha's chest. Ranganatha's crown, hands and feet are plated with gold.

I and my wife recently visited Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple on 30th September 2023. This is our first visit to the temple together, and we are happy that we had a very comfortable and satisfactory Darshan at all temples in the complex, though there was a heavy rush of pilgrims, this was possible because we engaged the services of a temple guide. Earlier, over the years I visited the temple a few times when I went to Tiruchirapalli (Trichy) on official work, for commissioning and servicing of CNC Machining Centres which my Company supplied to Ordnance Factory Trichy. And my wife visited the temple before our marriage a few times as her mother is from Trichy and her father was there for a few years and continued to have business relations with the town for several decades even after returning to Hyderabad.

Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is the most illustrious Vaishnava temple in South India, rich in legend and history. Beyond the ancient textual history, the archaeological evidence such as stone inscriptions found refers to this temple, from late 100 BCE to 100 CE, making it one of the oldest surviving active temple complexes in South India. The deity finds a mention in the great Sanskrit epic Ramayana which is dated around 800 to 400 BCE which also pushes the existence of the deity to the same era. This shows that the temple is a minimum of 2500 to 3000 years old archaeologically and traditionally 30 lakh years old.

According to legend, after Lord Rama and Sita Devi returned to Ayodhya, Lord Rama was coronated King and he gave valuable gifts to Sugriva, Jambava, Hanuman, and the Vanaras who helped him in the war against Ravana and to the people of his kingdom. He also gave many gifts to King Vibhishana, brother of Ravana, who helped him in the war; and he also gave him his Kula Devatha Ranganatha idol as a gift. Vibhishana accepted it happily and left for Lanka. On the way to Lanka, Vibhishana passed through Thrishiragiri where river Cauvery was flowing and halted there to perform Sandhyavandanam (a daily worship/ritual).  He put down the idol to perform Sandhyavandanam and when he returned he was unable to pick it up. Then Lord Maha Vishnu appeared before him and said that he wished the idol to remain at this place as he loved this beautiful island place where the pious river Cauvery flows, like a garland around him. As Ranganatha idol was supposed to go to Lanka he said he would remain here facing towards the South, in the direction of Lanka. Vibhishana was pleased with the proposal and asked the local king Dharmavarma, to consecrate the idol facing in the South direction, eternally blessing him and Lanka. Hence, the deity (in a reclining posture) faces South, his body aligned to the east-west axis, head at the west and legs towards the east.

The temple is also mentioned in the Alvar literature. The Alvars are considered to have lived between 4200 BCE and 2700 BCE (traditionally), and by modern academics, the lifetime of the Alvars is between the 5th century and 9th century CE.

The temple also has a rich detailed recorded history that dates back to the 10th century. It was expanded and renovated by various dynasties, including the Cholas, Pandiyas, Hoysalas, and Vijayanagara rulers. The Srirangam temple has played an important role in Vaishnavism history starting with the 11th-century career of Ramanuja and his predecessors Nathamuni and Yamunacharya. The temple complex as it stands today is a result of centuries of construction and renovation.

The temple celebrates various festivals throughout the year, with the Vaikunta Ekadashi being one of the most significant. During this festival, it is believed that the gates of heaven are open, and devotees believe that passing through the Vaikunta Dwaram, a special North-facing entrance (Utthara Dwaram) will grant them salvation.

The temple has historical significance in the context of the philosopher-saint Sri Ramanuja (1077–1157 CE), who played a crucial role in the Bhakti movement and spent a considerable period at Srirangam temple. Ramanujar’s shrine is located inside the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple where his mummified body has been brilliantly preserved for centuries. Rather than chemicals, sandalwood paste and saffron are used to protect the mummy. A coat of Pacha Karpuram (camphor) mixed with Kumkum (vermilion) is applied twice a year which gives it an orange tint. This tradition has been followed for centuries, and it helped to keep Ramanjucharya’s mummy intact.

The temple is managed by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu. The administration follows strict rituals and practices, ensuring the smooth conduct of daily worship and various festivals.

 In essence, the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple at Srirangam stands as a testament to the rich cultural and religious heritage of India, attracting millions of devotees and tourists from around the world, not only as a place of worship but also as a masterpiece of architectural and sculptural brilliance.

The sanctity of marriage is a tale to be told…

 

In Hyderabad's bustling streets, it's wedding season now,

Where venues pulse with life, and traditions take a bow.

Opposite our house (Srilekha), processions proudly parade,

Amidst floral splendour, where joy never fades.

With music loud and colours bright, the atmosphere ignites,

As bride and groom, like royalty, step into the lights.

Amidst the heat, the noise, the jams, and polluted air,

Smiles and happiness abound, beyond all despair.

Marvellous decorations grace each wedding hall,

Feasts boasting, cuisines varied, pleasing to all.

Photography and videography, capturing every glance,

Creating memories eternal, in a joyous dance.

Competing in opulence, each venue shines,

A testament to modernity, in these grand designs.

Yet in villages, traditions stand, steadfast and true,

In a very modest celebration, the couple is unified.

It’s under a bower, artfully knit from coconut leaves,

Decorated with banana plants and jasmine blooms.

Amidst auspicious nature's lovely green and near and dear,

The couple is united and blessed to care for each other.

Dazzling or simple, the choice may unfold,

The sanctity of marriage is a tale to be told.

Whether grand or simple, in tradition or in trend,

Love's sanctity must prevail, enduring to the end.

Happy Chinese New Year of the Dragon! I was born in the Year of the Dragon, Seven Dragon Years ago!

 

Today is Chinese New Year Day, the first day of a magnificent and overwhelmingly happy and prosperous ‘Year of the Dragon’ – 10th February 2024 to 29th January 2025. In China, the Dragon is the imperial symbol; the sign of the erstwhile emperor and symbolizes the element Yang – Fast, Hard, Solid, Focused, Hot, Dry and Aggressive and is associated with Fire, Sky, Sun, Masculinity and Daytime. In the Chinese astrological cycle; the highly beneficial ‘Year of the Dragon’ comes once every twelve years.

It is strongly believed that people born in the Year of the Dragon carry a natural charisma and are gifted with power, health, wealth and luck. They are said to be egoistical and ambitious, almost to the point of megalomania, and will not stop at anything to get what they want. They can be successful as financiers, politicians, actors, singers, bankers and pharmacists and are quite comfortable in many other professions.  I was born in the ‘Year of the Dragon with Water element’! Seven Dragon Years ago! However, I do not wish to discuss now the influence of the Year of the Dragon on me and my life so far. I am writing this article to wish everyone including the lovely babies who will begin to arrive in record numbers starting from today! ALL THE BEST!

I sincerely wish this because Chinese astrologists believe the year of the Dragon is a good one for giving birth. Babies who arrive in the Year of the Dragon are believed to be destined for both good fortune and greatness. In his Chinese New Year message, the Singapore PM has urged couples to 'Add a Little Dragon' to their family.

Know your Chinese Zodiac Sign from this Chart:

Zodiac Signs and Personality Traits:

Ox

Birth years: 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021

Personality traits: Diligent, gentle, hardworking, reliable, patient, materialistic, stubborn

Tiger

Birth years: 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010

Personality traits: Confident, brave, magnetic, idealistic, thrill-seeking, arrogant, selfish

Rabbit

Birth years: 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023

Personality traits: Kind, sensitive, artistic, romantic, judgmental, timid, refined

Dragon

Birth years: 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024

Personality traits: Outspoken, energetic, generous, intelligent, perfectionistic, egocentric, impatient

Snake

Birth years: 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025

Personality traits: Clever, curious, alluring, wise, anxious, calculating, jealous

Horse

Birth years: 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026

Personality traits: Amusing, enthusiastic, independent, persuasive, irresponsible, moody, opportunistic

Goat/Sheep

Birth years: 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027

Personality traits: Easy going, empathetic, creative, cheerful, disorganized, impulsive lazy

Monkey

Birth years: 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028

Personality traits: Entertaining, intelligent, optimistic, sociable, fickle, secretive, unpredictable

Rooster

Birth years: 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, 2029

Personality traits: Adventurous, charitable, funny, loyal, argumentative, boastful, self-involved

Dog

Birth years: 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030

Personality traits: Helpful, honest, trustworthy, unselfish, pessimistic, anxious, timid

Pig

Birth years: 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031

Personality traits: Caring, generous, smart, outgoing, fearful, impatient, materialistic

PS - There are five types of Dragons: Gold Dragons, Earth Dragons, Fire Dragons, Water Dragons, and Wood Dragons. As I mentioned above the Chinese zodiac Dragon years come every 12 years as a cycle. The Dragon year with specific elements comes once in a 60-year cycle. 2024-25 is the year of Wood Dragons. I was born in 1952, the year of Water Dragons, and after 60 years I got to experience it in 2012!

Which of these 22 captions would you choose for this vintage photograph?

Ø A 1970 teenager enjoying the tunes of a gramophone in the great outdoors.

Ø Nature's symphony meets the gramophone's serenade.

Ø Immersing in music and nature, gramophone style.

Ø A moment of peace captured in a bygone era.

Ø Where nature's symphony meets the gramophone's song.

Ø Sunshine, solitude, and sweet sounds.

Ø Whispers of the past on a vinyl breeze.

Ø Lost in the timeless beauty of music and nature.

Ø Gramophone grooves and vintage tunes.

Ø Gramophone grooves and nature's lullabies.

Ø This teenager's got the right idea for the perfect unplugged afternoon escape.

Ø The ultimate escape with a touch of gramophone charm.

Ø A symphony of nature's whispers and the gramophone's lullaby.

Ø Time slows down here to the rhythm of a spinning record.

Ø Tranquil tunes and timeless vibes.

Ø Sunlight dappling through leaves, a gentle breeze, and the soothing sounds of a bygone era set the scene for a moment of pure relaxation.

Ø Lost in the melody, a teenager finds solace in a unique blend of modern comfort and vintage charm.

Ø Unwinding in an armchair oasis… where the rhythm of nature and the melodies of the past harmonize to create a haven of peace and tranquillity.

Ø A simple moment of quiet contemplation, fueled by the timeless beauty of nature and the soul-stirring notes of a gramophone.

Ø A symphony of silence and sound: In the stillness of nature, the music speaks louder, weaving a tapestry of emotions and memories that transcends time.

Ø Who needs Wi-Fi when you've got the wind in your hair and a gramophone spinning sweet melodies?

Ø Relaxation station amidst the beauty of nature, with a soundtrack provided by a vintage gramophone.

Portrayal of Lord Sri Rama by Narada Maharishi

 

On this historical and happy occasion of the inauguration of the grand Lord Sri Rama Temple today, at Ayodhya, I wish to narrate an excellent portrayal of Lord Sri Rama by Narada Maharishi, which is the basis of Valmiki Ramayana.

I came across this description from an English translation in PROSE; of the original Valmiki Ramayana in Sanskrit VERSE. The English translation I am narrating here is from the book titled Ramayana by Sri Manmatha Nath Dutt, published in the year 1891:

THE NARRATION – A VIDEO

Maharishi Valmiki asked the best of sages and foremost of those conversant with words, ever engaged in austerities and Vaidika studies, and also Narada Maharishi, “Who at present in this world is alike crowned with qualities, and endued with prowess, knowing duty, and grateful, and truthful, and firm in vow, who is qualified by virtue of his character, and who is ever studious of the welfare of all creatures? Who is learned, hath studied society, and knoweth the art of pleasing his subjects? And who alone is ever lovely to behold? Who hath subdued his heart, and controlled his anger, is endowed with personal grace, and devoid of malice; and whom, engaged in battle, do even the Gods, fear? Great is my curiosity to hear of such a person. Though canst, O Maharshi, tell me of a man of this description”.

Hearing Valmiki’s words, Narada, cognizant of the three worlds, said with alacrity, “Do thou listen! Rare as are the qualities mentioned by thee, I will, O sage, having duly considered, describe unto thee a person endued with them. There is one sprung from the line of Ikshwaku, known by the name of Rama. He is of subdued soul and exceeding prowess; effulgent; endowed with patience; having senses under control; intelligent; learned in morality; eloquent; crowned with grace; the slayer of foes; broad-shouldered; possessor of mighty arms, a conch-shaped neck, fleshy jaws, and a broad chest, a powerful bowman; the repressor of foes; having plump shoulder-blades; of arms reaching down under his knees; with a beautiful head; and a graceful forehead; and endowed with excellent might; having symmetrical limbs; and of a cool hue; and possessed of prowess; and having a well developed chest, with expansive eyes; crowned with auspiciousness and favourable marks; knowing duty; firm in promises and engaged in the good of his subjects; of accomplished renown; furnished with knowledge; pure in body and spirit; modest towards superiors; versed in self-knowledge; blest with prosperity; destroyer  of enemies, protector and supporter of all living beings, practising all the duties of this class; and preserving those cleaving unto him; versed in the profundity of Vedas and the Vedangas; accomplished in archery; gifted with a good memory; ascertaining with rapidity the truth of things; the darling of all; unreproved; unvanquished spirit; discerning; proficient in every branch of learning; ever resorted to by the good even as the ocean is, by the rivers; worthy of being honoured; having an equal regard for all; and capable of filling the heart with ever-new sensations. Crowned with every grace; he enhanceth the joys of his mother Kausalya; being like unto the sea in gravity and unto the Himavat in patience. In prowess, he is like Maha Vishnu. In anger he resembleth the fire raging at the dissolution of all; and in forgiveness, he is like unto the Earth. In giving away, he is unto Kubera the Bestower of riches, and in truth, he is like Dharma.”

And this prompted Valmiki Maharishi to write Ramayana.