Navrang India

''Paramapads vassal'' templesinindiainfo.com

Goddess Hemavati kills demon Muran. gayathrifoodbytes.blogspot.com

Have you any idea about the legend behind the Vaikuntha Ekadashi festival that falls betweenmid December and mid January (Tamil month of Margazhi). It is important to understand the significance of Vaikuntha Ekadashi, a temple festival mostly associated with Sri Vishnu temples. As you may be aware, that most of Hindu festivals have a mythological story related to them and it conveys a relevant moral message to the humanity so that people can lead a meaningful, peaceful and contended life with strong spiritual orientation. This will help them face the life's long and tedious journey with confidence, determination, faith and commitments.

To understand the origin of Vaikuntha Ekadashi, we have to turn the pages of Padma Purana. The legend has it that Devas (celestial), having fed up with the atrocities and tyranny of demon Muran', sought the help of Trinity God Shiva, who advised them to approach another Trinity God Sri Vishnu. Being sympathetic to their pain and suffering, Sri Vishnu declared war on the demon, When the war was on, Sri Vishnu realized he was facing a powerful and ferocious warrior and his weapons were not enough to defeat demon Muran. Sri Vishnu retired to a cave of goddess Haimavati in Badarikashrama for rest and to come up with a powerful weapon to slay the demon. Realizing the impending danger to his life, demon Muran followed Sri Vishnu to the cave to kill the lord. No sooner had Muran tried to slay the lord, who was fast asleep, than the female power emerged from Vishnu and burned Muran to ashes with her fiery look. When Vishnu woke
up he realized that he had been saved by the female power. Pleased as he was, with her timely action, he named the goddess'Ekadashi'and asked her what she wanted. Upon which she requested the lord that people who observed a fast on that day should be freed of their sins. Vishnu thus declared that people who observed a fast on the Ekadashi day and worshipped the goddess, would attain Vaikuntham - the abode of God Vishnu (salvation; free from the cycles of birth and death). This way the first Ekadashi-Dhanurmasa Shukla Paksha Ekadashi came into being.

Here, if you go to the bottom of this mythology, you will realize what the lord of the world is trying to portray to humans in all Yagas by his divine acts. The god subtly conveys the demon Muran stands for the Rajasic and Tamasic qualities- all bad qualities
lust, passion, arrogance, evil mindedness, abuse of power, etc.These bad qualities will ultimately take him to the path of annihilation. Ultimately, no purpose is served. Satva is the most indispensable one for attaining moksha and this can only be archived if one gets rid of Rajasic and Tamasic qualities - all bad traits in us that will, one stage, take us to abysmal depth from which redemption is impossible. Purity of mind and action is to be inculcated that will take us to the path of self-realization. Fasting, keeping awake whole night, meditating on God or engaging in Bhajans, etc., will balance our wavering mind and put a strong hold on it. This way you can concentrate on your family duties by being detached from those transient worldly, materialistic pleasures. At the same time you should chase your goals and aspirations in your life without having to deviate from Dharmic path.

Vaikuntha Ekadashi fasting, keeping vigil whole night, meditation, special prayers are essential for our mental well being to improve concentration and focus. Fasting here implies just taking only lunch. Visiting the Vishnu temple in the wee hours of the morning on the Ekadashi day has been vogue for centuries. Taking the Prathakshana path and going through the Vaikuntha Vassal (paramapada Vassal) in the temple is done by devotees. At Srirangam Ranganathar temple, a few lakhs devotees, on this auspicious day, walk through the paramapada vassal with religious fervor strong faith that the almighty will absolve them of their sins, guide them in th right direction here on and ultimately give them a place under his divine shadow in his abode upon leaving this mortal body.

https://templesinindiainfo.com/about-vaikuntha-ekadashi-legend-significance-fasting/
http://gayathrifoodbytes.blogspot.com/2017/12/vaikunta-ekadashi-also-known-as-mukkoti.html

The annual Vaikuntha Ekadashi fesival, that is celebrated on a grand style during mid december and mid January at famous Vishnu temples is a popular one in South India, in particular, Tamil Nadu and Andhra states. It is not a big religious function in Kerala in comparison to Tamil Nadu where the historical temples steadfastly follow centuries-old rituals, etc. These rituals still remain unbroken and are bring followed with more vigor than ever before. Though the Indian states, language-wise, stand apart, culturally and religiously, as far as Hindu festivals are concerned, they are quite similar and Hindu temples in the respective states, follow more or less same rituals sans format and style of presentation of some festivities.
Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala:

Padmanabha Swamy Temple,Thiruvananthapurm, Kerala,Alamy com

Sri Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple in the prime locality, close to the Thiruvananthapurm Central railway station, Kerala is one of the most famous Vishnu temples in south India and is the world’s richest temple. The temple has vast treasures in the form of gold coins, gold jewelry, diamonds, valuable gemstones, gold idols, etc., worth more than US $ 25 billion stored in the under ground vaults. Mind you, the antique value of the old treasures on the present international market is not taken into account and it many add up atleast 4 times more than the present estimate.

Padmanaba swami templeVishnu, view thru' thee doors epuja.co.in

The main deity of this temple has Ananthasayanam posture, the reclining posture on the coiled bed of the serpentAdisesha. The Moolavar is visible through three main doors before the savtum. The head of the deity and the serpent Adisesha is viewed through the first door, the naval of the deity and the gold idols used for daily anointing and poojas is seen through the second door and the patham (Feet) of the deity is noticeable through the last door. The important fact is, in the case of worship at Vaishnavite temples, Patha dharsanam - worship of the divine feet of the lord, is fore maost important and it is symolic of surrender to the Almighty (sranagathi). The deity, being a big one, is made up of 12,008 Saligramams (a sort of fossilized stones found in the sedimentary rocks of the Paleozoic period in the Himalayan mountains) collected from the Gandaki River of Nepal. Hindus have a strong belief that the whorls (chakra image) in the stone symbolize Sri Vishnu and you will find the Saligrama stones in all Hindu households. Devout Hindus, both Vaishnavites and Shavites do pujas to them frequently.

In Kerala Vaikunta Ekadashi festival is called Swargavathil, meaning Passage to Heaven and is observed in the Malayalam month of Dhanu. As in Tamil Nadu, the processional deities from the sanctum -Srikovil are taken reverentially in a procession through the Vaikuntha Dwara ( similar to Paranapada vassal). It a colorful and vibrant event here and people in thousands walk through the Vaikuntha Dwara in the belief, Namperuman will

bestow them good health, welfare and most importantly peaceful life. This festival is not an elaborate one as in Tamil Nadu where the temple priests are vaishnavite Brahmins - Bhattachariars. Here, at this temple, the priests are Namboothiri Brahmins and the chief one are called Nambies.

https://www.southtourism.in/blog/vaikuntha-ekadashi-festival-2019-2020/
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Sita Ramachandra Swamy temple, Bhadrachalam, Andhra Pradesh:

Sita Ramachandraswamy temple, Bhadrachalam, AP.exploretemples.in

At Sita Ramachandra Swamy temple, Bhadrachalam, Andhra Pradesh, the presiding deity is Sri Rama, seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu. Located on the banks of the Godavari River, this historical temple (associated with Bhakta Ramadas, a great devotee of Sri Rama) is one of the Divya Kshetrams and is also known as Dakshina Ayodhya. Vishnu appeared to Meru’s child Bhadra as Sri Rama and overlooked that Rama was a mortal human and showed up as Vaikuntha Sri Rama with four hands. There are idols of Rama's consort Sita and brother Sri Lakshmana as moolavars in the sanctum.

Sri Ramachandra swamy temple, Badrachalam, AP. Pinrest.com

Vaikunta Ekadashi festival is the most popular one here.
The temple with presiding deities as Lord Rama, his consort Goddess Sita and brother Lakshmana is a popular center of pilgrimage in Andhra Pradesh. On the day of Vaikunta Ekadashi festival, the utchava deities of Lord Rama, consort Sita and brother Lakshmana are taken out in a religious procession through the Vaikunta Dwara, quite similar to the temple tradition being followed in Tamil Nadu and elsewhere. Quite interesting is the fact that the Vaikuntha Ekadashi celebrations held here are based on the traditions of Srirangam Ranganathar temple, TN.

As per the Bhadradri Kshetra Mahatyam (Importance of Bhadradri) in the Brahma Purana, devotees who visit the temple here and seek the blessings of Vaikuntha Rama on the annual festival day of Vaikuntha Ekadashi, shall be granted Vaikuntha propthi - salvation in the shadow of Sri Vishnu's abode. The Agama text Paramapurusha Samhita has mentioned that the devotees should pray to Sri. Vishnu seated on the Garuda Vahana while taken with reverence and devotion in the procession through the Vaikunta Dwara - North gate to fulfill their wish of gaining salvation. On the day of Vaikuntha Ekadashi in the early morning, the utsava idols of Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana on the Garuda vahanam will be carried by the Vaishnavites through the Vaikuntha Dwaram- Sorgha vassal. Later devotees are allowed to pass through the Vaikuntha Dwaram.

Yet another event as part of prelude to Vaikuntha Ekadashi, is Teppotsavam (the float festival) that is celebrated with pomp and religious fervor. A boat shaped like swan named Hamsa vahanam is used for the procession of the utsava murthies (idols) on the waters of the near-by Godavari River. During the Teppotsavam the entire place is well-lit, using flood lights for the benefit of devotees to enjoy this annual event and there will be fascinating, colorful fire-works at night The decorated boat carrying the idols makes five long circles in the water and normally about 26 devotees, including temple priests accompany the float procession. As at Srirangam temple, the festivities last for 21 days and Goda Kalyanam and Rathotsavam (the chariot festival) form important activities of the annual celebrations; the latter event coincides with the Makar Sankranti festival. This unique festival draws people in thousands from near-by districts as well.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sita_Ramachandraswamy_temple,_Bhadrachalam
https://www.southtourism.in/blog/vaikuntha-ekadashi-festival-2019-2020/

Fasting. mythoreligio.com/fasting-in-various-religions

.cartoonstock.com

Many religions do encourage their followers to go fasting as part of religious activities and in the Hindu religion (actually Hinduism is a way of life), fasting is emphasized in many religious festivals, though it is not mandatory. Nor is it a moral obligation on the part of followers to go on a fast. But it is looked upon as a ritual duty with an aim to purify the body and mind, a sort of self-spiritual cleansing.. Fasting may also be part of a religious ritual during certain popular festivals such as Mahashivaratri or Vaikuntha Ekadashi. Normally, Ekadashi, comes twice a month on the eleventh day of each ascending and descending moon and, on these days, devout Hindus observe fasting. During the months of July and August, tradition has it, many Hindus strictly follow a vegetarian diet and fast on Mondays and Saturdays till the evening. Many Hindu women fast on Mondays to invoke God's blessings to be bestowed with a good husband. Some Hindus fast as part of pilgrimage to places of worship, A good example is the annual pilgrimage to Sabarimala temple in Kerala during the Mandala season (November - January). Similarly, devotees of God Muruga (Karthikaya), during Panguni uthiram festival observe fasting as part of their padayatra carrying Kavadi. Yet another interesting fact is Indian Christians follow this Hindu tradition of fasting when they undertake long barefoot walk -padayatra to attend the famous annual festival in August at the Velankanni Church, near Nagapatnam town, Tamil Nadu, covering more than 90 km. The church, originally built by the Portuguese sailors centuries ago (16th century), is dedicated to ''Virgin Mary'' (Our Lady of Good Health).

cartoonistsatish.blogspot.com

Fasting is defined as abstinence or very much limiting food, drink, or both, for a specified period of time on one's own will. A total fasting is abstinence from food and liquid for a well-defined period. In some cases fasting may be limited to one meal in the morning as preferred by elders. Some people may use discretion and eliminate rice, wheat, barley and lentils and replace them with vegetables or salads. Some may fast for 8 hours or more and then go for a simple meal. Choice may vary among people,

From Physiological point of view, frequent fasting is good for the health as it achieves a beneficial metabolic status of a person owing to fasting previous night because this promotes complete digestion and absorption of food. Normally, metabolic changes of fasting state begin after absorption of a meal ( about 3–5 hours after eating).

Mohandas Gandhi (1869-1948), who advocated non-violence and satyagraha - total civil disobedience during freedom struggle against the oppressive British rule using fasting as a tool against the foreign power says to him, it is a religious conviction - a way of freeing oneself of the constraints of the body to achieve purity of mind. This will result in better focus.
The point I would like to make here is fasting, as part of Indian religions - Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism, has been around for centuries. Our forefathers way back knew well that fasting was good for the health and promote regular body functions as we give rest to our body frequently by fasting. A research study done by one Mark Mattson, Neutro scientist at the Johns Hopkins University, USA has stated that intermittent fasting may provide many health benefits like controlling of blood sugar level and this may be conducive to better life-style. The diet of intermittent fasting may fall under two groups: daily time-restricted feeding and what is called 5:2 intermittent fasting. The first one suggests eating 4-8 hours per day and the second one (5:2 fasting) promotes moderate meal two days each week. According the review published in the New England Journal of Medicine, alternating of times of eating and fasting is good for the over all health as this improves the health of the body cells.. The advantage is, according to the scientist, this metabolic switch is a must and it improves blood sugar regulation in our body. Further, it improves resistance to stress and and suppresses inflammation.
This study is in agreement with the religious fasting as advocated by our saints and sages in ancient India.

https://navrangindia.blogspot.com/2016/05/fasting-and-hinduism-some-facts.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fasting
The New Indian Expree (Tiruchy edition). dated Dec. 27, 2019: "Intermittent fasting may be good for you"'

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Vivekananda Rock Memorial in 2016 en.wikipedia.org

158th (2019) birth centenary, Sri Vivekananda imedia.chennaimath.org

The birth centenary of great spiritualist Sri Vivekananda and the Vivekananda Kendra is coming up in January, 2020. The Vivekananda Rock Memorial at the southern most tip of peninsular India just off the coast of Kanyankumari town, Tamil Nadu draws tens of thousands of tourists a year to this coastal town. This well-known memorial to one of India's most reputed spiritualists and Vedantists Sri Vivakananda, stands majestically on one of two rock outcrops about 500 meters off the mainland of Vavathurai. During the last 48 years or so, more than 50 million visitors have visited this memorial that is located at the confluence of three seas - the The Arabian sea on the west, the Indian ocean toward the south and the Bay of Bengal on the east.

last 46 years, over 5 crore visitors from world over have visited this memorial https://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Hyderabad-Tab/2016-11-21/Every-obstacle-is-an-opportunity-says-Eknath-Ranade/264869

https://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Hyderabad-Tab/2016-11-21/Every-obstacle-is-an-opportunity-says-Eknath-Ranade/264869

Built in 1970, the reason why this particular rock outcrop was chosen by the followers of Sri Vivekananda and other like-minded people like socialist Sri Eknath Ranade was it was, here swamiji meditated on God and attained enlightenment. Further, according to the legend, Goddess Kumari performed Tapas - penance on God Shiva to remarry him. Though the initiative was taken way back in January, 1962, on the occasion of Swami Vivekananda’s birth centenary by his admirers during the Congress ministry in Madras (now Tamil Nadu) led by K. Bhaktavasalam, their efforts were stalled for a few years by the local Catholic Christian fishing community who wanted to install a 'Cross'on the same rock. The judicial probe as ordered by the Madras (now Tamil Nadu) government pointed out in unequivocal terms that the rock was Vivekananda Rock, and that the Cross was a trespass.

Vivekananda Rock Memorial famousplacesinindia.in

Despite the judicial findings, the memorial got delayed due to communal ramblings. After long deliberations with the state government and with the support of more than 300 MPs, the roadblock was finally removed. The credit goes to Eknath Ranade, a spiritualist and social activist, late Sri Lal Bhahadur Sastry (former PM), the Sri Ramakrishna Mission and the late Paramacharya of Kanchi mutt (who knew the then Madras CM Bhaktavachalam personally well) for taking the mammoth project forward, after clearing all the impediments on the way. Nobody can forget the sustained and dedicated role played by Sri Ranade who sought public subscription from common people across India to meet the financial costs. Within a short period of 6 years, the Vivekananda memorial was opened in 1970 and dedicated to the nation. The Vivekananda Kendra was, at last, officially founded on 7 January 1972 (the 108th birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda). Memorial, a fine mix of West Bengal and Tamil Nadu architecture - the design of Sri Ramakrishna Math, Belur, West Bengal, stands as a great monument to Swami Vivekananda whose trip to Chicago was financed by none other than the great Maharajah of Ramnad. Swamiji, upon his return from the US after his successful foreign mission landed in the same state - the Madras Presidency.

''Every problem has a solution, every obstacle is an opportunity,” said Eknath Ranade, who was born on November 19, 1914 and whose birthday is named ‘Sadhana diwas’. The unique feature of the design of the meditation hall (Dhyana Mandapam) also attached to the memorial for visitors to meditate here, is it showcases different types and styles of temple architecture from all over India and here you find an impressive statue of Vivekananda whose aura is irresistible and his statue is facing Sripada mandapam, yet another structure made of garbha graham, inner prakaram, outer prakaram and outer platform. These two main structures form the memorial.

It was late Sri Eknath who then founded Vivekananda Kendra - a service organization dedicated to spirituality. Today, it is serving in all the states of India and has more than 68 schools, four hospitals and over 800 activity centers. Some centers, besides value based education and many charitable activities, the importance of yoga and its value in modern life is emphasized.

http://www.famousplacesinindia.in/Monuments/Vivekananda-Rock-Memorial.aspx
https:// en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vivekananda_Rock_Memorial

Tiruvalangadu Shiva temple tamil.webdunia.com

old Banyan tree. Tiruvalangadu Shiva temple upload.wikimedia.org

The places where God Shiva, performed The ''Dance of Bliss''or''the Ananda Tandavam'' are called Pacha Sabhaigal - meaning - pancha -five; Sabai - dance hall. This Shiva's distinct dance style and posture has scientific connotation - a symbolism of five divine acts of creation, sustenance, dissolution, concealment and blessing with his divine grace. Nature's cycles of creation and destruction of land lives, etc., and of formation of new lands and life, etc., maintaining a balance between these two acts so that the rest will be sustained, fed and protected for their existence represent Shiva's dance, his sabha - theater being the firmament.

The dance of Shiva' motif in metal idol is a famous one - a legacy of Chola art that exixted more than 1000 years old. Five of the important Sabhas (Pancha Sabhai) are at Chidmbaram (Kanaka Sabhai, the hall of gold), Madurai (Rajata Sabhai, the hall of Silver), Tiruvalangadu near Chennai (Ratnasabhai, the hall of rubies), Tirunelveli (Tamrasabhai, the hall of copper) and Chitra Sabhai, hall of art near Kutralam. Other equally famous dance hall Adri Sabhai (the Himalayas), Aadi Chitsabhai (Tiruvenkaadu near Chidambaram) and Perur Kanakasabhai (Patteeswarar temple at Perur near Coimbatore).

The Tiruvalangadu Shiva temple, a 2 -hour from Chennai, and also from Kancheepuram, is famous for the Ratna Sabha or the hall of rubies. It is said to be the 15th of the 32 Tevara Stalams in the Tondai region of South India. This historical old village was earlier called Pazhayanur and the place where this temple is located was called Alangadu. In the Devara Hymns, this place is mentioned as “Pazhayanur Alangadu”.

Urdlwa Tandava`fearful dance,Thiruvalankadu. .templesonnet.com

Every Hindu temple has a mythological story and this one has no exception. The legend has it that at the request of Naradar, to save the earthly beings from the sustained rage of Kali that had not yet come down, after killing demons Sumban and Nisumban in the banyan forest in this region, Shiva agreed to a dance duel with her (his consort Goddess Parvati - Kali). This was to subdue her fury. Initially, the latter gave a far better performance than God Shiva himself. In order to prove his expertise in nuances of dancing, at last, Shiva performed what is called the `Tandava` dance also known as the `Chanda (terrific) tandava` and as part of it, he lifted his leg up above his head. Upon this unique Oordhvatandavam posture, Goddess, being a woman, could not imitate this posture and, out of modesty, then, accepted her defeat. Lord Nataraja won the contest but he also declared that Kali was second to none except himself in dance. At this temple, one can see Urdlwa Tandava` terrifying, fearful dance frozen in alloyed metal with eight arms (iyempon). So is the idol of Kali with eight-arms.

This is the 15th of the 32 Tevara Stalams in the Tondai region of South India. The lord is known as “Sri Vadaranyeswarar” (Vadam meaning banyan tree, Aranyam meaning forest and the Eswar represents Lord Shiva). The celestial gods (Devas) are said to have worshiped the lord of this temple, hence he is also referred to as “Sri Devarsingaperuman”. Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested). This temple has a well- constructed 100-pillars hall where Lord Natarajar’s abishekam is performed periodically. There are two Shiva lingams - one made of Spadigam ( pure quartz crystal) and the other one made of Maragatham ( superior quality emerald).
In Lord Natarajar’s shrine in this temple. Saint Pattinathar sang in praise of Lord Shiva of this temple, so was Saint Arunagirinadhar in praise of Lord Murugan of this temple in his revered Thirupugazh.

This is a big temple with many halls - mamdepams and there
is a stone image of Karaikkal Ammayar, a devotee of the lord
and a famous Tamil poetess in the shrine to Oordhvatandavamurthy Here, she rendered her “Mootha Thirupathigam” about Lord Shiva. Her jeeva samadhi (tomb) is at the end of Lord Natarajar’s hall (Sabha). There is yet another image of Nataraja, housed within the sanctum of Vadaranyeswarar. A huge banyan tree is the Stala Vriksham (temple tree). The inscriptions mention about grants byRajendra Cholan, son of great Raja Raja Chola II) for the upkeep of the temple. They date back to the 5th century. Pallava dynsaty made their contribution to this temple. The Rajagopuram with five tiers here is a tall one and the towers and temple boundary walls , adjacent to the temple courtyards, date back to the 12th and the 13th centuries. During the reign of Kulottunga Chola I, the temple complex was enlarged (1075 - 1120)
Besides, Shiva Ratri, the Margazhi Tiruvadirai celebrations related to Shiva"s ''dance of bliss'' are held with devotion and attract lots of devotes

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_Vadaranyeswarar_Temple
https://www.dharisanam.com/temples/sri-vadaranyeswarar-temple-at-thiruvalangadu
https://temple.dinamalar.com/en/New_en.php?id=115

Cosmic dance of Shiva. wikimedia.org

Above image: The above bronze idol of God Shiva, the cosmic dancer is on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, NYC. Shiva ; Chola period (880-1279), ca. 11th century Tamil Nadu, India Copper alloy; H. 26 7/8 in. (68.3 cm); Diam. 22 1/4 in. (56.5 cm) Gift of R. H. Ellsworth Ltd., in honor of Susan Dillon, 1987 (1987.80.1)...............................
'' If a single icon had to be chosen to represent the extraordinarily rich and complex cultural heritage of India, the Shiva /Nataraja might well be the most remunerative candidate. It is such a brilliant iconographic invention that it comes as close to being a summation of the genius of the Indian people as any single icon can. Sculptures of Shiva dancing survive from at least as early as the fifth century, but it was under the rule of the great Chola dynasty of southern India (880-1279) that the world-famous iconographic type evolved. The setting of Shiva's dance is the golden hall of Chidambaram, at the center of the universe, in the presence of all the gods. Through symbols and dance gestures, Shiva taught the illustrious gathering that he is Creator, Preserver, and Destroyer. As he danced, he held in his upper right hand the "damaru," the hand drum from which issued the primordial vibrating sound of creation. With his lower right hand he made the gesture of "abhaya," removing fear, protecting, and preserving. In his upper left hand he held "agni," the consuming fire of dynamic destruction. With his right foot he trampled a dwarf like figure (apasmara purusha), the ignoble personification of illusion who leads mankind astray. In his
dance of ecstasy Shiva raised his left leg, and, in a gesture known as the "gaja hasta," pointed to his lifted leg to provide refuge for the troubled soul. He thus imparted the lesson that through belief
in him, the soul of mankind canbe transported from the bondage
of illusion and ignorance to salvation and eternal serenity. Encircling Shiva is a flaming body halo ("prabhamandala," or surrounding effulgence) that not only establishes the visual
limits of this complex and dynamic composition but also symbolizes the boundaries of the cosmos.'' .........................(https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:India_statue_of_nataraja.jpg)

creation and destruction of lands, Plate tectonics courses.lumenlearning.com

crustal destruction due to collusion. Convergent boundary .weebly.com

The concept of Cosmic dancer of Hindu God Nataraja is a unique one, covering the realms of divinity, spirituality and cosmology. It subtly covers the unsurpassed rhythm, beauty, power and grace of Nataraja. His dance of bliss ' represents the interplay of dynamic as well as static energy flow operating for aeons on this earth - the creation of new land mass on one side of the mantle of the earth and destruction of land in the subduction zone (creating earthquakes, tsunamis, etc) on the other side as postulated in the theory of ''Plate Tectonics''Divergent boundaries

creation of plates. Divergent boundary. weebly.com

. His dance posture, lifting one leg and resting the other leg on the demon is symbolic of maintaining balance between

destruction and formation of lands on the earth. Plate tectonics. sciencedirect.com

creation and destruction. This balancing act represents the dynamics of creation and destruction in the world, accentuated further by the dancer's composed face in the center of the two hands in which the polarity of creation and destruction is dissolved and transcended. Philosophically, his leg resting on the demon symbolizes his act of removing arrogance, ego and ignorance in us, for these traits take us no where. God Shiva represents Pancha Bootha, five essential elements that the living creatures need to live on this earth. The five principles of eternal energy — creation, preservation, destruction, illusion and emancipation govern the denizens on this earth. Shiva's fierce dance called ‘Rudra Tandava’ or the 'dance of destruction' in an aureole of fire, creating wild thunder storms all around the universe, volcanic eruptions and

generation of Tsunami. tsunami-alarm-system.com/

even elimination of the Sun, the Moon and stellar bodies with his matted hair represents an integral natural process going on within the earth and in the atmosphere. The hour-glass- shaped drum that he is holding in his lower right hand, marks male-female union needed for propagation of lives on this earth. The continuous pulsating sound of the drum - 'dumroo' epitomizes the continuous creation process going on in this planet and others. The crawling of snakes over his arms, legs, and braided hair depicts egotism that has to be done away with. The 'Abhaya mudra' of his upper right hand suggests his blessings to us to "Be fearless" and get rid of ego and pride. It is the sign of 'do not fear' symbolizing composure and peace. The remaining left hand pointing down to the uplifted foot personifies release from the spell of maya. The skull on his head depicts conquest over death. The presence of Goddess Ganga on his hairdo (jadamudi) represents the holy river (water). His third eye called Gnakkan represents insight and enlightenment. When in rage, it is like a terrible inferno, engulfing everything in the aureole of fire! His body in blue color is symbolic of the sky. His vast dancing theater, sabha being the entire firmament.
The gentle dance of bliss ''the ‘Lasya’known as ‘Aananda Tandavam’ is linked with the creation of the world, and this dance takes place in the Shiva temple at Chidambaram (which represents the sky).
Shiva is the symbol of ‘Brahman’, the universal consciousness and he has the cosmic serpent called ‘Kundalini’ crawling over his body. It is said, it is mystically present in all creations. The awakening of the seven hidden energy centers is archived through the practice of meditation and concentration at a focal point on the forehead and this is done by the ‘kundalini’ yoga - that teaches how to trigger the energy centers within us.

It is a basic fact the humans fall under three groups of Gunas - mental-make-up. They are satvic, tamasic and rajasic. Likewise, the divine entity is divided into nine, of which 8 can be achieved by human intellect - earth, water, fire, air, ether, mind, intellect and pride. The ninth one is a riddle, it is the mystery of creation.

Dancing Nataraja, the cosmic dancer .fritjofcapra.net

Above image: A special plaque next to the Shiva statue at CERN explains the significance of the metaphor of Shiva’s cosmic dance with several quotations from The Tao of Physics.

The European Centre for Research in Particle Physics in Geneva-CERN had installed in 2004 the two meter-tall statue of dancing Nataraja, representing the cosmic cycles of creation and destruction and also dynamics of subatomic particles. One must recollect the comments made by the famous Physicist Fritjof Capra, in his book ‘The Tao of Physics’ (1975): “Every subatomic particle not only does an energy dance, but is also an energy dance; a pulsating process of creation and destruction...without an end.''
'' Modern physics has shown that the rhythm of creation and destruction is not only manifest in the turn of the seasons and in the birth and death of all living creatures, but is also the very essence of inorganic matter,” and that “For the modern physicists, then, Shiva’s dance is the dance of subatomic matter.”
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Cosmic-dance-of-Shiva/articleshow/10485316
https://www.fritjofcapra.net/shivas-cosmic-dance-at-cern/

https://navrangindia.blogspot.com/2017/01/hindu-god-shivas-mysterious-cosmic-dance.html

New Year greetings. indiatvnews.com

Migraine. pinrest.com.

Sleep problems are global and are said to be most self-defeating symptoms of migraines. Lack of sleep may cause migraines or it may be other way round!! The frustrating thing is migraines, that may last from a few hours to a few days, are, actually, a severe headache that may put the suffer out of action for sometime, and she or he will take refuge in the comfort of a soft, cozy bed. It may vary from throbbing, moderate to severe head pain across the head or confined to one side. Reports say there are 35 million sufferers in the US, mostly women. This is true of countries like India where heat and humidity are serious problems. Many sufferers would go after quick-fix rather than a permanent remedy. They buy over the counter medication and do not see a doctor to get to the bottom of their sleeplessness or migraine.

The symptoms of migraine are sensitivity to light or flashes of light (often described as auras), blurred vision, vomiting and pain in the tummy, lack of appetite and vertigo. The suffers should check with an eye doctor if they have any vision problem or increase in power of their eye-glasses. Doctors are at a loss to understand the real cause of migraines. They claim they are more related to neurological problems. Migraines tend to run in families but can also be brought on by environmental factors like changes in weather, altitude, travel and sleep. Snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) have both been linked with migraines Mind you it is a first warning sign, and both may lead to less restful sleep that eventually becomes sleep deprivation, which triggers migraines. It is reported that nearly half of migraines are known as“awakening headache” meaning it occurs between 4 and 9am in the morning and about 71% of migraine sufferers experience this type of headache. When it does occur regularly, it is quite obvious that it’s often a sign of a sleep disorder.

.cartoonstock.com

According to the American Migraine Foundation, migraine sufferers are likely to suffer sleep disorders 2 to 8 times. In the case of insomniacs, due to sleep deprivation, they experience irritation, and lack of concentration during the day. Anxiety and stressful regimental daily life may trigger a headache. Many research studies point out there is a positive link between lack of sleep and incidence of migraines.

The largest prospective study using objective measures of sleep to evaluate its links with neurological diseases observed that sleep disorders or disturbance might trigger migraine headaches. This new study may come up with better interventions for treating the condition. This research study was published in the Neurological Journal, USA in the third week of December, 2019. The study observed that sleep fragmentation - time spent in bed but not asleep was linked to the onset of migraine not on the next day, rather the following day after that - this seems to be a new revelation regarding the incidence of migraine headache that affects large chunk of the population. Neither sleep duration nor self-reported
low- quality sleep was associated with high risk of migraine over the next day or day after. The researchers did not find any correlation between them.
The real causes of migraine and its association with sleep disturbances are not yet firmly established so far. Co-author Suzanne Bertisch of Brigham Women's Hospital, Utah reported that many patients came to her clinic for treatment of insomnia. But, the research work on this particular study is not clear about what kind of sleep intervention is helpful to reduce the risk of migraine headache.
If you wake up regularly with headaches or feel tired during the day due to lack of sleep previous night or feel depressed and irritable or experiencing lack of focus during the day, and if you have one of the above symptoms, it is likely that you may have sleep disorder. Be cool, and it is not the end of the world, every problem has a remedy.

Follow the following simple methods to mitigate your migraine/ sleep disorder problems:
01. The first step to bring your sleep back is to get to the bed at night and get up from the bed in the morning at the right time on a regular basis.
02. Let your bedtime be a relaxing and quiet one to calm your mind and nerves.
03. Nice to go for a warm bath and explore meditation before retiring to bed. Besides, set aside some time for meditation or yoga and focus your mind on something that pleases you very much.
04. It is said inhaling lavender essential oil, in particular, will reduce migraine symptoms and induce sleep.
05. When it comes to dinner, watch out. What you eat is essential for your body and mind. The more you eat, the more you may feel uncomfortable at midnight. Be careful about flatulent stomach.
06. As much as possible avoid fatty, greasy and sugary food loaded with fat. Say no no to 'fast food'.
07. Avoid watching either TV or touch phone videos. Reduce its brightness to a comfortable level, if need be.
08. It is a good idea to avoid alcohol and caffeine later in the day. Both of them may interfere with sleep.

Never fail to bear in mind that a healthy, but controlled diet will go a long way to promote healthy sleep so is prolonged viewing of cellphones, etc.

https://www.tuck.com/migraines-and-sleep/https://www.tuck.co/migraines-and-sleep
The New Indian Express (Tiruchy edition,TN) dated December 18, 2019; page:16:: ''Low sleep quality triggers migraine''

Patriot, Champaran. Rajkumar Shukla. en.wikipedia.org

Among Indian patriots who fought against the British Raj, there are many unsung heroes. One among them is Raj Kumar Shukla, the man who provided a veritable space for Gandhiji to launch his very first Satyagraha movement. He made a seminal contribution culminating in the launch of the Champaran Satyagraha in 1917 by Mahatma Gandhi. Being the first civil disobedience agitation of India, it saw Gandhi’s popularity taking off to new dizzy heights.

Chanparan Stayagraha Gandhiji and others thewire.in

Indigo farmers Champaran, Bihar. en.wikipedia.org

Raj Kumar Shukla, son of Kolahal Shukla who owned several acres of farming land in Murli Bharahwa, another village in Champaran, district, Bihar was quite disillusioned by the plight of farmers like him who were cultivating indigo. Born in 1875 at Satwaria village, in Champaran, his ancestors lived for 200 years. The farmers of this district were poorly paid for their indigo crops and the landlords happened to be mostly British. Being poor, they were afraid to revolt against the unscrupulous, greedy British and their cohorts. Being content with hand to mouth living, despite their toil on the lands for hours together under the sun, they were living in the shadow of fear and threats. If they refused to plant indigo and go against the British, they faced another hurdle in the form of heavy taxes. The custom had been that the merciless oppressive landlords enforced this system through local their agents, called gumasta, who who would treat them brutally under the very nose of their British masters. The British forced the farmers to raise Indigo on conditions of providing loans in collusion with local rulers, Nawabs and landlords. It was a money-spinning business for the colonists and the money lenders reaped a lot by squeezing poor farmers. It was a sort of a vicious circle and the victims were cultivating farmers.
To add insults to injuries, the poor farmers were not allowed to raise food crops much needed for their families including children during off-season. This artificially created famine-like situation due to poor availability of food grains like rice and pulses for their daily needs. They stoically brooked untold miseries and pain. Upon his return from South Africa in 1915, Gandhiji established the Sabarmati Ashram in Gujarat. Then he undertook a long journey across India to understand the various problems being faced by the natives and he did it on the advice of his mentor, Gopal Krishna Gokhale. He traveled widely and met with lots of people and leaders.
It was Rajkumar Shukla, a representative of farmers from Champaran, who met Gandhiji during the 31st session of the Congress in Lucknow in 1916. He requested Gandhiji to visit his village and other places to see for himself the precarious conditions of the Indigo ryots (tenant farmers) there and the famine like situation prevailing there. At that point of time, Gandhiji had no idea whatsoever about either the Indigo plantation or the miseries of farmers there. On 17 April 1917 Gandhiji was greeted at the Mothari railway station by Shukla and a large gathering of farmers. When infuriated Gandhiji Gandhiji visited another near-by village, the police arrested him and he told the Magistrate, “This cannot be, I came here to render humanitarian services to the people of this region. I shall make Champaran my home and not leave till I have helped these suffering people''.Raj Kumar Shukla, diligently approached the right person to expose the atrocities of the British rule under the Crown. Their lousy treatment of Indians was as much disgusting and repressive as it was under the unjust East India company rule that plundered many parts of India and Indian resources as much as they could until 1857 that culminated in the ''Great Rebellion''. Shukla found a savior in Gandhiji and made him aware of the plight of the poor cultivators in Champaran and persuaded him to visit the villages in Bihar. He was an Indigo cultivator of the area as well as a money lender from village Murli Bharahwa near Narkatiaganj in West Champaran, earning, according to his own statement before the enquiry committee set up by the provincial government, a sum of Rs.2000 a month from interest
Gandhi later wrote in his autobiography, “I must confess that I did not then know even the name, much less the geographical position, of Champaran, and I had hardly any notion of indigo plantations.”

Rajkumar Shukla, Champaran hero. currentriggers.com

Above image: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Communications and Minister of State for Railways Manoj Sinha released a Commemorative Postage Stamp on Champaran Satyagraha hero Rajkumar Shukla on December 18th 2018 at New Delhi in the presence of Dr. Sanjay Jaiswal, MP (West Champaran) and Satish Chandra Dubey, MP (Valmikinagar)..................
Anyway, Sri Rajkumar Shukla provided an opportunity for Gandhiji to experiment his concept of Satyagraha as a tool to fight against the tyrannical British Raj. So, the Champaran Satyagraha of 1917 happened to be the first Satyagraha movement inspired by Gandhi and a major revolt in the Indian Independence Movement that gave a new directions to the freedom fighters. It was a farmer's effective uprising that took place in Champaran district of Bihar, India during the British colonial period that formed the solid platform to go ahead with his new tool with vigor and vitality. http://champaransatyagrah.org/2017/01/17/how-champaran-transformed-gandhi-india/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raj_Kumar_Shukla

Chini Ka Rauza, in Agra, near Delhi. en.wikipedia.org

Chini Ka Rauza, in Agra.travelogyindia.com

Chini ka Rauza a funerary monument, rauza is in Agra city near Delhi, India. It has the the tomb of Allama Afzal Khan Mullah, a scholar and poet who was the Prime Minister of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Built in 1635, Chini ka Rauza is about one kilo meter north of Itmad-Ud-Daulah Tomb, on the eastern bank of Yamuna river in the same city; the last resting place of Mulla Shukrullah Shirazi (Allama Afzal Khan Mullah of Shiraz). The distinctive feature of this monument is its glazed tile work in the facade of the building that used to be called kashi or chini in Mughal era structures. The interior is equally inspiring. It is quite obvious the builders paid more attention to the fine glazed work than on the overall design of this tomb. The tiles, it is said, were brought from China specifically for use in this structure.

Chini Ka Rauza, in Agra, Delhi. flicker.com

Afzal Khan, a Persian poet during the reign of Jahangir became the wazir during Shah Jahan's reign. He was a man of erudition and scholarship and held in great esteem in the mogul court. After his demise in Lahore (in Pakistan) in 1639, his body was brought back to Agra and gave a decent burial with reverence. His tomb is built facing the city of Mecca; the tomb also goes by the name of China Tomb. It is actually a mausoleum built to honor the poet.

amazing interior. Chini Ka Rauza, in Agra,outlookindia.com

The structure's architectural style is not a complex one and is quite simple with no embellishments. As plain as it can be, it is unusual Mogul era structure containing a sultanate style non-proportional dome. The various enamel colors on this historical building show signs of wear and tear that resulted in the loss of sheen on the tiles, etc and the main contributing factor, it is said is seasonal climate, extreme hot in the summer and very cold weather in the winter months. In the facades, the builders diligently used earthenware pots and it was done with a view to reducing the weight of the concrete filling as was followed in Rome and Egypt.

Chini Ka Rauza, in Agra, tripadvisor.in

The tomb has two main gates, one in the South and other in the North. The tower is a three-story structure in octagonal shape. Owing to poor upkeep, many parts of the monuments are in ruins today and they need immediate attention of the ASI. The balconies of the tomb have inlay works and China tiles.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chini_Ka_Rauza

https://www.travelogyindia.com/agra/chinni-ka-roja.html

The chief gate of Vitthal's temple, facing the Bhima River. wikipedia

Considered as an important pilgrimage center for the Hindus, Pandharpur in Solapur district of Maharastra is on the banks of Bhima river. The major attraction here is the Vithoba temple and it is said, that during the major yatra in the month of Ashadh (June–July) more than half a million Hindu pilgrims visit this city (also known as as Pandhari). ''Vitthal'', "Pandurang" and "Pandharināth" are other names of the presiding deity who is a form of Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Here, his consort is Rakhumai or Rukmini. The Pandharpur temple, being a big complex, has six gates to get in. The eastern gate is known as the "Namdev Gate".

Panduranga (sri Krishna) and Rukmani. you tube.

This temple is a sanctified place of worship as it was centuries ago visited by great and pious saints of repute like Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, Sri Tukaram, Sri Namdev, Sri Eknath, and Sri Muktabai. Chaitanya Mahaprabhu is said to have spent seven days at the Vithobha Temple engaged in meditation and worship.

Pandharpur MH, India .researchgate.net

On Mahadwar ghat there is temple of bhakta (devotee) Pundlik. Legend has it God Vitthal came here to meet his ardent disciple bhakta Pundlik who was busy serving his elderly parents that time as part of his daily duty. He offered brick ( vit) for Vitthal to stand for some time. Since then Vithal has been standing and it is said, 28 yuga is gone by - too long a time to explore. So, when Aarati is shown before the deity as part of Puja, pundits mention " yuge atthavis (28), vithevari ubha. From it, we can infer that this temple is a pretty one - as old as the main Vitthal-Rukmini Mandir in Isbavi area of Pandharpur known as Wakhari Va Korti Devalayas and also known as Visava Mandi.
Most of the tourists here are Hindu pilgrims as there are four yatra's every year. Among them, the annual Yatra to the famous Vithoba Temple at Pandharpur known as Pandharpur Wari or Ekadashi and Pandharpur Ashadi Ekadashi Wari, Ashadhi and Karthikai yatras are popular and bring in lots of people from all over Maharashtra and neighboring states. Pilgrims with overwhelming devotion and commitments, usually undertake barefoot walk covering hundred of miles all the way from their hometown to get to the temple. The purpose is to get blessed by the lord and their wish fulfilled. This shows how much such devout Hindus repose trust in the Almighty - Lord Sri Krishna

Vihoba (sri Krishna) temple, Maharastra. pinrest.com

and his divine power. After their visit to the temple, having fulfilled their religious undertaking, they get back home with revitalized energy and confidence to face future challenges. In Maharastra, this place is referred to as South Khasi.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pandharpur
/www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERGzg2czQzc
http://www.padayatra.com/all-india-padayatra-at-pandharpur-maharashtra/

Ashadhi Ekadashi, Pandharpur, MH resultshub.net

Pandharpur Padyatra, MH .padayatra.com

Padyatra (Sanskrit, lit. journey by foot) is of two types. The journey (may be long or short) on foot with sandals on is undertaken by politicians or prominent citizens to a specified place. The purpose is interaction with different communities to expose a cause and educate people about certain social issues and gather their support. Nowadays invariably politicians across the country, with exceptions, undertake this padayatra for publicity bonanza to hog the limelight. Nowadays they go for padayartra to create misvhief to the ruling parties by creating law and order problems. Among power-hundry Indian politicians, unfortunately Padayatra that was made popular by freedom fighter Mahatma Gandhiji, it has become a wrong tool in the past decade or so.

On the other hand Pada Yatras or 'Foot pilgrimages' are mostly Hindu religious pilgrimages undertaken to certain sacred/ sanctified temples during certain holy periods of the year. The pilgrims walk barefoot to far off places, some times covering more than 100 kms from their home. This religious undertaking is done by them with intense devotion and bhakti to have their wish fulfilled by the almighty and before that they have to strictly follow certain austerity measures.

padayatra to Vitthal temple punebuzz.com

The well known padayatras by the Hindu pilgrims are: In the western Maharashtra state of India Varkaris / pilgrims practice a regular walk to religious places like Dehu, Alandi and Pandharpur. Ashadhi Ekadashi, Kartiki Ekadashi, Maghi Ekadashi and Chaitra Ekadashi are some of the popular days when pilgrims reach Pandharpur to worship Vithoba. Mantralaya Paadayatra - to worship saint shri Raghavendra Swamy, Shri Datta Paadayatra to worship lord Dattatreya, Murgod Paadayatra to shri Shiva Chidambar swamy from Dharwad city of Karnataka state.
In Tamil Nadui the padayatra to the Palani Muruga(Dandayudhapani; Subramanya and Karthkaya) temple during Thaipusam (Jan-February) is a famous one as the idol in the temple on the holy Palani hill was consecrated by a great Siddhar Bhogar (one of the Eighteen Siddha Purushas).
As for Padayatras to Pandharpur Lord Vitthal temple, over a million pilgrims a year walk barefoot for several days and it is said to be one of the world’s biggest pilgrimages or varies, This 800- year-old tradition has been around since the time of saint Dnyaneshwar, founder of the Bhagvat sect. Subsequently many great saints of Maharastras like Saint Tukaram and Saint Eknath, et al popularized this vari/pilgrimage tradition to inculcate bhakti and religious commitments for good causes. The unique feature is the pilgrims reverentially carry the padukas - replica of wooden sandals of holy saints representing the four famous saints who promoted Bhakti tradition to the abode of Lord Vitthal in Pandharpur and to attain salvation (free from the cycles of birth and death) - the ultimate religious goal of the Hindus.

Normally such padayatras are a tough religious undertaking and senior citizens above 65 avoid them as they have to walk long distances. Mostly, they walk between 5 am till 10 am and then from 3 or 4 pm till 8 pm. On the way, they get free accommodation at choultries (free lodging) if they are available.
There are many groups or dindis (groups of varkaris) in major cities in Maharastra and they take care of food and accommodation of the yatrikas upon registration. In this state to become a a varkari - pilgrim, there are neither pre-conditios nor rituals. No caste, gender or class barriers. They follow the simple message of saint Tukaram : “All you need is a heart full of love....” There are women and children in every dindi. Most dindis charge nominal fees. Towns Alandi and Dehu are about 25 km from Pune. If you want to join a Dindi to undertake the pilgrimage contact the Saint Dnyaneshwar Samadhi Mandir at Alandi for additional information.
The pilgrims form groups and undertake the long arduous journey from distant places like Tamil Nadu, Andhra, Karnataka, Gujarat, etc waking more than 40 days. Duration of walks depends on the age of the pilgrims. A sea of humanity will converge at the
Vitthal temple on Ashadhi Ekadashi (in July), a holy day according to the Hindu calendar. Senior citizens normally undertake this journey in part by walk and in part by motor vehicles. Chanting relevant mantras, pilgrims, as a tradition, follow the routes undertaken by the great saints Dnyaneshwar (from Alandi) and Tukaram Vari (from Dehu). They will have rendezvous at the Varkari village near Pandharpur, and from there walk together to the temple, being their final destination.

Wari has gone through many changes over the past 700 or 800 years since its inception and, today, media reports mention that it is a fine model example of crowd Management every year.
In the 1820s, the pilgrimage underwent many changes initiated by the descendants of Tukaram and Haibatrav Baba Arphalkar, a devotee of Dnyaneshwar and a courtier of the Princely state of Gwalior kingdom. It is said that saint Dnyaneshwar’s father, Vitthalpant used to visit Pandharpur in the month of Ashadha and Kartik prior to the 14th century. However, another record says that Saint Dnyaneshwar in the 13th century and Saint Tukaram in the 17th century started long journey to Pandharpur on foot to pray at the Vitthal temple. It was Narayan Maharaj, son of Saint Tukaram who promoted the the tradition of carrying the padukas of the Saints in 1685. Tukaram Maharaj (17th century ) was born in Dehu village near Pune and his devotional hymns known as Abhangs were devoted to Lord Vithoba. His ''Bhakti Movement'' played a vital role in Maharajah Shivaji’s rise and gave him inspiration to courageously fight against the treacherous foreign invaders.
https://www.ixigo.com/what-is-the-significance-of-the-pandharpur-yatra-fq-2008551

https://punebuzz.com/pandharpur-yatra-ekadashi-pandharpur-wari/
http://palani.org/palani_pada_yatra.htm

Lal Darwaza (Ruby Gate) Mosque, Jaunpur, UP.jaunpuronline.in

Lal Darwaza (Ruby Gate) Mosque, Jaunpur, UP en.wikipedia.org

The city of Jaunpur in the state of Uttar Pradesh, is known for its beautiful mosques of great antiquity, fine architecture and design that date back to several centuries. The city of Jaunpur has many tourist attractions. Among the interesting sites is Lal Darwaza Masjid.
Also called Ruby Gate or red Gate mosque, it was built in 1447 by Queen Rajye Bibi and dedicated to Sayyid Ali Dawood Kutubbudin a saint. It is in the palace of Bibi Raji, who was the Queen of Sultan Mahmood Sharqi, a ruler of the Sharqi Dynasty. The Lal Darwaza Masjid, Jaunpur was formed to serve as a private mosque for the Queen. It is in the suburb called Mohalla Laldarwza or Begum Ganj.

lal Darwaza Masjid (Red gate mosque ), Jaunpur, varanasivideos.com

Bibi Raji, being a pious woman, established a religious school (Madrasa) in the area around the Lal Darwaza in Jaunpur for all the local Muslim residents and was named Jamia Hussainia. It is still functioning.


UP: lal Darwaza Masjid (Red gate mosque), Jaunpur, jaunpuronline.in

The mosque was dedicated to Maulana Sayyid Ali Dawood Kutubbudin, a well-known saint (Maulana) of Jaunpur, and, it is said, his descendants still live in the Mohalla Bazaar Bhua Pandariba Jaunpur and Mohalla Namaz Gah laldarwaza. The latter was named by Bibi Rajye, who also built here a monastery and a College. It is mentioned a school for women education was founded far way back in 845/1441 at Jaunpur by Queen Bibi Rajye and it shows her keen desire in women's education and their progress in society.
Lal Darwaza (Ruby Gate) Mosque has its origin in the vermilion-painted lofty gateway of Bibi Rajye’s royal palace, that is near-by. Among the three gates, the eastern one - main gate way is the largest and most important. This mosque could be dated back to those of Jama and the Atala Mosquses. Despite its simple architecture, this unique Mosque is made of stones nicely blended with bricks as well. The mosque has distinct interior as well as exterior.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lal_Darwaza_Masjid,_Jaunpur
http://varanasivideos.com/2019/01/07/lal-darwaza-mosque-jaunpur/

Darjeeling, a famous hill resort town (altitude 6,710 ft ) of the state of West Bengal, is part of the lower Himalayan mountain ranges and attracts lots of tourists every year in the summer season. There are countless picturesque places around the town. If you travel farther, you will run into innumerable scenic spots that make you forget the madding crowd and urban din that you have left behind on the plains. So are the gently undulating tea plantations on the hill slopes, set in the serene and beautiful locations near by. Tea plantations here, as you may be aware, produce the best and superior quality premium tea in the world. The nearest airport is Bagdogra and the nearest major railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP). There are many heritage colonial buildings and churches in this colonial town that still carry the vestiges of past colonial rulers who encouraged the growth of tea estates by European settlers, hospitals and sanatorium for the soldiers. They also encouraged the missionaries to have churches built to meet the spiritual and religious needs of the European settlers and military people. Lt. General Lloyd of the East India company takes the credit of having discovered the potential of Darjeeling hill site, a place for the British soldiers to relax and recuperate in the cool weather prevailing on the hill. This nice hill station has more tourist spots than vistas of tea plantations on the hill slopes.

Darjeeling, west bengal, India. touristplacesinindia.com

Listed below are some of the historical colonial churches in Darjeeling:

St. Jude Catholic Church, Darjeeling :

St. Jude Catholic Churchtraveltriangle.com

There are some colonial churches in Darjeeling that are still functional. St. Jude Catholic Church is said to be one of the oldest churches built in 1892. The impressive clock tower was built in 1883. The church came into being with a view to catering to the spiritual needs of British India military and the Catholic community settled on this hill. In the wake of India's independence from the British rule in August 1947, the Church activities declined with the departure of many European families. The church continued to remain non-functional for a long time. The local Indian catholic community put in a lot of efforts to get the church opened for regular services and prayer.

St. Andrews Church, Darjeeling:

St. Andrew's Church, Darjeeling.tourmyindia.com

St. Andrew's Church, an old Anglican Church on the Mall Road in Darjeeling town, was built in 1844 and the foundation was laid in 1843. Named after the patron saint of Scotland St. Andrew, it was a fine piece of architecture built in Gothic Style that was widely followed in Europe. The Gothic origin of this architecture is believed to date back to 12th century AD. The church, having been damaged earlier due to an earthquake, was rebuilt in 1873. In the colonial period, it was the primary church for the soldiers of Scottish decent and tea planters on the hill. The seating capacity of the church was about about 200 persons. There is a small brass plaque in memory of Charlotte Countess Canning, wife of the Governor General of that time -1847.

Interior. St. Andrews, Darjeeling, WB mohkum.aminus3.com

The fine features include the pointed arch, the ribbed vault and the flying buttress, most of which is found in the St. Andrew's Church.

It is close to the railway station just 1.5 km.

Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Darjeeling:
Immaculate Conception CathedralDarjeeling, traveltriangle.com

Located on Loreto convent road, in Chauk bazaar, the Immaculate Conception Church was built in 1892. Earlier Sunday services were conducted in the chapel of Loreto Convent until 1884. The first foundation stone for a public place of worship was laid on 19th May 1884 near St. Joseph’s seminary, Sunny Bank, by the Capuchin fathers. Its foundation ceremony was conducted by Archbishop Goethals in the same year of construction - 1892. The dimension of the church is 113 feet X 28 feet with fine oratories (private prayer places) on both sides of the sanctuary. This church was under the care and management of Belgium Jesuits till 1947. After India's independence, the Canadian Jesuits of the Catholic Mission of Darjeeling, Fr John Prendergast was the first Canadian Jesuit installed as the Parish Priest. Ms. Agnes Margaret was the one who was first baptised on 3rd November 1846 by Fr John McGirr after just 24 days of his coming to Darjeeling, according to Church records. Fr Alphonse Scharlaeken, a Belgium Jesuit, not only learned the Lepcha script but also took interestin the tribes living there and later attracted the Nepalese to Catholic faith.

St. Columbas Kirk, Darjeeling:

Located in Limbugaon, St. Columbas Kirk is yet another Scottish church in Darjeeling built in 1894. Close to the railway station just

St. Columbas Kirk, Darjeeling, WB traveltriangle.com/

St. Columbus church, Darjeeling, India .trekearth.com

uphill, it is known for its fine structure set in a quiet environment and the stained glass windows in the church enhance the beauty of this place of worship that was associated the family of Peterson Lennox Black-wood. No doubt, the quiet surrounding place endowed with nature's beauty will calm your mind and create a suitable atmosphere to engage in prayer and meditation.

https://www.darjeelingdiocese.com/parish/the-immaculate-conception-church-darjeeling/
https://www.trawell.in/west-bengal/darjeeling/st-andrews-church

https://www.tourmyindia.com/blog/places-to-visit-catholic-tourists-in-india/
http//www.darjeeling-tourism.com/

Dancing Ghost lights, chir Batti, pinrest.com

Ghost light, chir Batti in the Banni Grasslands,the Rann of Kutch,Gujarat,India

There are many mysterious and eerie places in India and one being in Gujarat called Chir Batti and the other one is in West Bengal referred to as Aleya. If you go to the bottom of these strange mysterious dancing lights that occur only at certain places and at night, you may find a simple explanation for the mystery that hunts lots of farmers and villagers or fishermen who visit these places.
Chir Batti, Gujarat, India:
The Banni Grasslands Reserve in the Rann of Kutch, Gujarat is a seasonal marshy grasslands, and the media reported a few mysterious dancing lights in them as witnessed by the locals; they named them Chir Batti. Local villagers refer to them as Chir Batti in their Kutchhi-Sindhi language, with Chir meaning ghost and Batti meaning light. It is reported that these thin to thick lights of various shapes quite visible at night are as bright as a mercury lamp and also change color from blue, red, yellow to a pear- shaped moving ball. This strange light phenomenon has been around here for centuries and, according to local folklore, these lights have been a part of life in the Banni grasslands and the adjoining Rann of Kutch. They are sometimes known to move fast in any direction and sometimes may remain in the same place for a while and then may disappear. Many visitors, including a team of local and US ornithologists and the Indian soldiers of Border Security Forces ( BSF) posted near the troublesome India-Pakistan border say that the light sometimes appeared as if to follow them.
Many witnesses claim these lights that change colors in a jiff frequently may here and there and can be seen can only after 8 pm on dark nights. They are are mostly 2 to 10 feet above the ground and, if by chance, if you follow them you may miss your way and get lost midway in the grassland or in thorny jungles or desert of the salt flats of the Rann.
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Aleya, West Bengal, India:

Ghost light, Aleya, West bengal. realunexplainedmysteries.com

In West Bengal these lights are called Aleya (or marsh ghost-light) and they are reported by fishermen of West Bengal and Bangladesh in the marshes. The sightings of these lights scare the local fishermen who mistake them for some kind of paranormal activities or apparition. Some times they become so shocked that they lose their bearing that my lead to drowning. Some local fishing communities in the region believe that these strange fast moving marsh-lights are actually the ghosts of fisherman who died accidentally while fishing. Many bodies were reported to have been washed ashore on these swamps in the past and the locals believe that the death was caused by Aleya lights.

Scientists are of the view that there is nothing mysterious about them and these thin moving lights are caused by oxidation of methane from the decaying plants, etc in the marshes. It is a common feature in agricultural fields where farmers prepare natural fertiliser - manure from the compost with decaying trash, plants, tree leaves, stems, etc., and is commonly called will-o'-the-wisp. The glowing lights are due to methane production of methane gas on a low level in such places. The life of lights is dependent on the amount of methane gas availble.
http://www.boydom.com/2012/12/22/top-10-mysterious-places-in-india/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chir_Batti
Marshy, desolate wetlands -

Srirangam paramapada vaasal (Closed)southtourism.in

Vishnu (namperuman) emerging from Paramapada vaasal. thhindu.com

All most ever day there will be some kind of festival or ritual at Sri Ranganathar temple of Srirangam. Among the festivals, the long one is Vaikunta Ekadasi, a yearly festival that is celebrated with religious fervor. It falls in the month of Margazhi (15th Dec to 14 Jan). Today (6th January) being the annual Vaikunta Ekadasi festival, people in lakhs descended on Srirangam town, near Tiruchi, Tamil Nadu to be part of this major annual event at Srirangam Ranganathar temple dedicated to God Sri Vishnu.

Sri Ranganathar temple, Srirangam, TN. pirest com

Unable to resist the benign grace and charm of the lord on this occasion, devotees had been waiting in the pretty long serpentine line since last night itself to get into the temple. The state government provided special security management to control the huge crowd and to avoid mishaps or any threats, etc lots of police personnel were posted inside as well as outside this sprawling temple. More then 200 sanitation workers and innumerable Health deptt. personnel were on duty for medical aid and to check the quality of drinking water being supplied there. Besides, numerous big LED displays were placed at vantage points for the benefit of devotees to watch the main event -''Soorgavaasal Thruappu''(opening of Heaven's gate). The paramapada vassal would be opened around 4- 30 am in the morning (6th of January, 2020) and the devotees wanted to see the lord cross the 'gate of Heaven'. This popular temple complex, very closely associated with the Vaishnava sect of Hinduism, is the first of the ''108 Divyadesam shrines'' sung in praise of the lord by the Tamil Vaishnava saints Azhwars. The reason why Hindu devotees throng the Vishnu temples on this day is this Ekadshi is called Mokshada Ekadasi, - the one that will bestow you with salvation (free from tedious birth and death cycles). On this day in the early morning Lord Vishnu emerges from his inner abode - garbagriha (sanctum) and passes through the Paramapada vaasal or Swarga vaasal (gate of Heaven) to bless the humanity with peace, prosperity and moksha (salvation). The paramapada vaasal on the north side of the temple opens once a year on this particular auspicious day and devotees pass though the gate only after the lord has crossed it earlier. The belief is all positive things will happen here on and all negative forces will get lost while passing through the paramapada vassal. It will be kept open for the devotees from 5.30 am till 10 pm.

Sri Ranganathar temple, Srirangam, TN. 123rf.com

On this day the main tower, Rajagopurm finely decorated by flower garlands, etc donated by the florists in this town. This festival is a long-drawn one - 21 long days (the Adhyayana Utsavam) non-stop. Today raapathu (Irapatthu) (10 nights) rituals begin and there will be Moolavar Muthangi seva (cloth woven with pearls) for the main deity (Moolavar), and Namperumal Rathnangi seva for Namperumal and the idol will be in the Thirumamani Asthana Mandapam around 8 am. Same night begins the second half of the ritual - recitation of remaining 3000 devotional hymns from Nalayera Divyaprabandham. This is done by a sect of Vaishnavites called Ariyars who engage in rhythmic dancing and singing before the deity (Utchavar). Ayriyar sevai, first initiated by Nathamuni (10th century), has been in place at this temple for centuries and they have unbroken tradition. This is a Punya shetram where 11 azhawars had their Mangalasanam. As for Madurakavi Azhwar, he sang in praise of his Guru Namazhwar. ''Namazhwar Moksham'' (reaching heavens) is a great final event on the 21st day. All the rituals in this temple are being followed as devised by saint Sri Ramanujar and they have around for more then 900 years.
http://navrangindia.blogspot.com/2018/12/some-interesting-facts-on-vaikunta.html
https://www.123rf.com/photo_95345232_tiruchirappalli-india-november-20th-2017-srirangam-rajagopuram-a-monumental-entrance-decorated-with-html
ttps://tamil.indianexpress.com/lifestyle/srirangam-vaikuntha-ekadashi-2020-sri-ranganatha-swamy-temple-srirangam-sorgavasal-thirappu-2020-date/


Srivilliputhur Goddess Andal temple.dharsanam.com

Paramapada vasal (Gate of heaven, sri Villiputhur Andal temple.you tube.

Srivilliputtur Andal temple at Srivilliputhur town, one of the 108 divya desams of Lord Sri Vishnu is interwoven not only with Lord Vishnu but also with the great Tamil saint Periyalwar and his adopted daughter Andal. It was here ‘Tiruppavai’ of Andal and ‘Tirupallandu’ of Periyalvar- the hymns on Lord Vishnu in chaste Tamil were composed. Being a highly sanctified place of worship, no doubt, the Tamil hymns – Tamil Vedam-Aahwar pasurams - are part of temple worship here and being recited everyday at this temple.

Srivilliputhur Mural art. agefotostock.com

Goddess Andal temple tower 1300 ADagefotostock.com

The 192 feet tall Rajagopuram/tower of this temple is one among the tallest temple towers in south India and it is the emblem of Government of Tamil Nadu. The presiding deity is Goddess Andal,

Srivilliputhur Sri Andal temple, The Aadi Pooram car festival. timescontent.com

consort of Vishnu and and the lord is referred to as Rangamanner. In the month of Thai (Feb- March) Mangala sasanam for Manavala Mamunigal takes place. In the month of Aani, Periazhvar utchavam - a 10 day event takes place with devotion. In the Tamil month of panguni Sri Andal Mannar Thirukalyanam will be a great 10- day festival and the wedding of Andal with Sri Vishnu commonly takes place on the 9th day of the festival.
Like Srirangam Sri Ranganathar temple near Tiruchi, Vaikuntha Ekadasi is celebrated on a grand scale here and the Thiru Adyayana utsavam includes Pagal patthu and Rapatthu. Yet another interesting tradition here is Ariyar sevai during the 21- day long festival, the last day being Nammazhvar Moksham - the poet reaching the abode of Sri Vishnu..

Srivilliputhur Goddess Andal and God Rangamannar (Vishnu).divyadesam.com

Vaikunta ekadasi, Ariyar sevai, Srivilliputhur, TN sk-sk.facebook.com

Today - 6th January, 2020, the paramapada vasal was opened around 7 am in this temple in the early morning through which Periya Perumal emerged followed by Goddess Andal and God Rangamannar. Devotees chanted Gopala, Govinda when the idols were crossing the gate. Today is the beginning of rapatthu so in the early morning around 3 am Thirumanjanam was performed by the temple priests to the idols of Andal, Rangamannar and Periya Perumal followed by special floral decorations and pujas. After the idols had crossed the paramapada vasal, Mangala sasanam seva was done and, for this purpose, the idols of saints Periazhvar, Ramanujar Nammazhwar, Thirumangai Azhwar and Vedanta Desikar were brought before the swarga vasal. This interesting age- old ritual was witnessed by a large gathering of devotees, including several VIPs.

Following this ritual, idols were taken to the rapatthu mandapam for the next half of the festival that will continue for 10 more days. This complex has two main parts, one dedicated to Goddess Andal and the other is Vetapatrasayee. Perazhwar shrine is part of this

Murals, Sri Villiputhur temple, TN agefotostock.com

complex. In this temple that is about 80 km from Madurai city and close to Virudhunagar town, worship protocol is based on Thenkalai (the other subsect is Vadakalai) tradition or samprathayam and six kaala puja (six times a day) is being followed and importance is given to three temple festivals, one being Vaikuntha Ekadasi.
Tit-bits:

Sri Venkatachalapathy Temple, Sattur, Virudhunagar, TN. www.justdial.com

In this district Virudhunagar, close to Virudhunagar town lies a historical Venkatachalapathy temple at Sattur made entirely of granite stones and it is said to be 500 years old. Here, the lord's consort is Boomi Devi. As this place is part of Sastha temple, the deity is referred to as Satturappan. .

In this temple this year today the swarga vasal -paramapada vasal was opened around 7, 40 am and the idols of both god and goddess were reverentially taken around the Maada streets in a procession in which lots of devotees participated.
https://www.maalaimalar.com/devotional/worship/2017/12/29130448/1137315/srivilliputhur-andal-temple-vaikunta-ekadasi-sorgavasal.vpf
http://navrangindia.blogspot.com/2016/01/sri-andal-temple-recent-consecration.html

glasbergen.com

That obesity has been a global public health problem in the last one decade or two with increasing consumption of fast foods that give better taste than health benefits, is a known fact. The researchers at the university of Toronto, Canada in their comprehensive analysis of the effect of obesity on routine blood tests in a large community of young children recently has come up with a new interpretation that 'obesity ' in children may hinder correct interpretation of the blood tests. This is based on the study of 1300 children and teens in the Greater Toronto Area and they say 24 routine blood tests are affected by obesity including liver function tests, inflammation marks, lipids and iron. (Vide: Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism; December, 2019 issue), It is reported 70% of children are affected by obesity.

glasbergen.com

Obesity is known to increase the risk factor for both cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Some research studies have concluded that obesity may be conducive to damage not only the body but also the brain. Many detailed studies point out that there is a link between obesity and performance on intelligence tests. Studies show that obese children and adults have lower intelligence quotients (IQs) than lean subjects . The results imply these findings have been interpreted to suggest that obesity may impact brain and harm key regions and functions that support the IQ.“Extreme obesity in tots is linked to low IQ” and can lower their IQ”. So, it is quite obvious that the casualty is teens' ability to think on their own, study suggests”.
The US researchers studied the link between body fat and intelligence. They have found less muscle more body may affect how flexible human thinking gets with age, possibly due to alterations in parts of the immune system. The study covering a huge sample of 4000 middle aged to older UK Biobank participants - both men and women, published in the ''Journal Brain, Behavior and Immunity''. The team studied the measurements of lean muscle mass, abdominal fat and subcutaneous and how they were related to changes in fluid intelligence over six years. The discovered that those in their mid 40s and 50s with high amount of fat in their mid-section had worse fluid intelligence as they grew older.

Way back in the past the research, conducted by French scientists over a period of five years, covering more than 2,200 adults claimed to have found a link between obesity and a decline in a person's cognitive function (Journal of Neurology, October, 2006). The researcher concluded that people with a Body Mass Index (BMI)– a measure of body fat – of 20 or less could recall 56 per cent of words in a vocabulary test, while those who were obese, with a BMI of 30 or higher, could remember only 44 per cent.

Scientists say, ''The greater your weight, the lower your IQ''. Obesity causes intellectual decline in the first half of the life course and may persist after that period.

Regular physical exercise is a good bet to control weight problem. In the case of women who have less muscle mass than men, resistance training is a must, researchers concluded. As mush as possible avoid fast food, food loaded with fat. Say no no to carbonated drinks with high sugar content or artificial sweeteners available on the market. Do nor ever develop sedentary habits. While working take a break every one hour and walk briefly. Between meals, avoid munching snacks. More importantly eat less at night to avoid adding more calories to your body.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3813310/
The New Indian Express (Tiruchi Edition) dated: December 19, 2019:: ''More body fat hampers your intelligence''
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/1531487/The-greater-your-weight-the-lower-your-IQ-say-scientists.html

Brihadeeswarer temple, Thanjavur, TN, pinrest com

As a prelude to the 'Kumbabishekam (consecration) to be held in February 2020, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) had already begun chemical cleaning of the ‘ towers' /'gopurams’ including the tall one one right above the sanctum (garbagriha) of the world famous Big temple, a ''Unesco'' recognized world heritage site. This 1000 plus year old temple (built between 1003 and 1010 AD), entirely made of granite stones is dedicated to God Shiva who is known as Brihadeeswara . Inquiries reveal that the ASI does periodic chemical cleaning every five years and the present cleaning work coincides with the proposed ‘Kumbabishekam.

old kalasams, atop the tower dismantled Ht. 10 4 feet.maalaimalar.com/d

brass pots to be kept in Yagasala, presentlyin Sri Natarajar shrine. .maalaimalar.com

It was in 1998, the 'Kumbabishekam of this temple was held and since then, it has not taken place. The consecration was postponed due to millennium celebrations of the temple that were held on a grand scale in September, 2010 in which 1000 Bharata Natyam dancers from many parts of India performed at the same time on the temple premises under the direction of Bharata Natyam exponent Padma Subramanium (daughter of famous Vintage Tamil Movie director Sri. K. Subramanium) right before the former CM late Thiru Karunanidhi and his entourage, and a huge audience.
Owing to vagaries of weather, and alternating hot and cold seasons normally temple towers fade or turn black. This is true of many historical temples. The entrance tower to the temple called ‘Maratta entrance’ was cleaned by men from ASI to its original pinkish color. This one was followed by second entrance called ‘Keralandhagan Gopuram’ and this one was cleaned as well.

The workers had already began the tedious task of cleaning the 216 feet tall Rajagopuram called Rajarajan Gopuram including the cupola atop the tower. The towers of other shrines were cleaned as part of periodic upkeep by the ASI.

As for systematic cleaning process, according to the ASI officials: “Moss and lichens growth is the major problem in the Gopurams of Big temple. First, they are cleaned with coir pith brush, then ammonia liquid is used to clean them and finally chemical coating is given to prevent moss and lichens growth,”

As the ‘Kumbabishekam’ has to be done soon, the ASI, State's HR and CE department and Palace Devasthanam headed by Sri Babaji Rajah Bhonsle, senior prince and hereditary trustee of ‘Palace Devasthanam’ have announced the date. It will be held on the 6th of February, 2020 (after a lapse of 24 long years), by the time chemical cleaning and other urgent works will be over.

The chola rulers were great builders of temples. This temple was built by Raja Raja I. The other Unesco world heritage sites under “Great Living Chola Temples”are Iravatheswara Swamy temple at Darasuram near Kumbakonam built by Raja Raja-I, and Gangaikonda Cholapuramtemple built by Rajendra Chola, son of Raja Raja-I in Perambalur district. "King Raja Raja was also known as Sivapada Sundaran which means a man devoted to the feet of Shiva," according to expert Mr Nagasami. The brick flooring is also going to be replaced in the prakara, etc at big temple for which Rs 50 lakh had been sanctioned, ASI officials said.

Brihadeeswarer temple, Thanjavur, TN, pinrest com

On 02 December 2019 special rituals - Palalayam, etc were done after that the sanctums of all shrines were closed. Later, Thilakappu (anointing with herbal oil) was done to the ''Thirumanis'' (divine deities) - tall Shiva Linga, the stone idol image of lord's consort Periya Nayaki Amman and other deities, images of Vinayagar, Murugan, Valli, Devaayai, 252 Shiva lingas all along the prakara , etc (a total of 388 divine images. Repair works, etc are going on in Siddhar Karoorar shrine right behind the Rajagopuram. These rituals were witnessed by Govt. officials including District Judge. Strenuous Scaffolding work and fixing of wood planks, etc., are going on all around the tower with meticulous care, covering the entire height to facilitate temple pundits physically to carry the holy water from the Yogasala to the top of the vimana to be poured on the 12 ft and 4 inches tall gold-plated kalasam (pot). After doing special initiation puja to Sri Vinayagar, they removed the old kalasam part by part and brought it down. It will be replaced with a new one of same size in which dhanyas will be stored as per temple Agama Sastra. The kalasams on other shrines will be replaced. This work is undertaken

by expert sthapathis from Madurai and Coimbatore who will refix them atop the big and small towers before the officials.

Poorvanga Puja will begin on the morning of 27th of January at 9 am and will conclude on and the first of February 2020 around noon; same evening first Yagasala puja will begin by the Veda Pundits - Sivacharyas. Yoga sala Pandal work is going on in the near-by 'Bethannan Kalaiarangam' in the Sivaganga Park.
After a pretty long gap this consecration ceremony is to take place and the devotees and admirers of this temple across Tamil Nadu and India anxiously look forward to this great event.
https://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/current-affairs/230918/thanjavur-big-temple-cleaning-taken-up-in-big-way.html
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/trichy/big-temple-facelift-speeded-up-for-kumbabishekam/articleshow/71605303.cms
https://www.maalaimalar.com/devotional/devotionaltopnews/2019/11/29101238/1273761/Big-Temple-kumbabishekam-work-start.vpf

Indian wife with a broom. drunk husband.hindustantimes.com

Ever since many of Indian states became wet soon after independence in 1947, despite Gandhiji's protest at that time not to encourage alcoholic drinks in any state, drinking problems among the Indian population, in particular among the very poor, has become a menace to the society. Alcohol is banned in some parts of India such as Manipur and Gujarat, but it is legally consumed in the majority of states. It is said 62.5 million people in India either drink or occasionally drink alcohol just for fun. Since 1970s alcoholic consumption has shown a dramatic change. After 1995, it has increased markedly - a 106.7% increase in the per capita (this means per individual in the population) consumption. Globally, India has become one of the largest producers of alcoholic beverages. This fact already drove many international breweries to move into this country as the market potential was and is way high. and they could make a bundle. India produces 65% of alcoholic beverages in South-East Asia. Most urban areas have witnessed an explosion in the number of bars and nightclubs that have opened in recent years for the middle and upper class groups. Drinking has also given rise to many social problems on the side lines, the foremost being domestic violence - beating or abusing wife followed by drunk driving, etc.

Husband and wife brawl. tamil.samayam.com

With regard to ill-treatment of women in the house who are engaged in all kinds of chores whole day- cooking, doing laundry, etc., a day's rest will give her relaxation. It is not so because of drunk husbands. Gone are those days when wives silently suffered all the abuses, threats and physical violence committed by their husbands at home. Driven to the edge of exasperation and tolerance, in many households, women have mustered enough courage to face such abusive men and their perversion by protecting themselves not through legal action or police complaints, rather giving them back in their own language - a sort of vigilante justice. Described below is a weird incident in an Indian village in Bihar in which the drunken men were thrashed by their better halves if they would get into the house fully loaded.

Western scenario Argues wife to alcoholic husband 123rf.com/photo

In May 2013, 35 year old Baleshwar Pasi, a poor man and an alcoholic addict, upon entering his run-down hut in a drunken stupor, fired a volley of abuses at his hard working wife. In the last 15 years his wife Munni had to be patiently submissive to his nasty behavior. Her patience wore thin as she had to take care of her growing children. One day Pasi had a different reception at home and it was a different one. In a drunken state, he instigated the devil in his otherwise quiet wife, who happened to be part of 150 strong all women vigilante group recently formed in this part of the village. Armed with sturdy brooms and bamboo sticks, she took the avatar of fierce looking Goddess ''Badra Kali'' who won't spare evil-minded people, heavily drunk and unable to stand steady on his shaky feet, Pasi fell on his knees and begged his wife mercy to spare his life.

The impact on him was so nasty and bad after that he never touched the brew and whenever he went past the liquor shops, he won't even take a look at them and would recollect the lousy treatment given to him by his wife. Besides, he would see the virtual image of his wife with blood-shot eyes and broom and stick in both hands ready to thrash him in the hour and on the hour. The sight was so scary and nightmarish that it would give him the runs.

Named after the Hindu goddess "Durga Vahini" who is known to slay demons/Assuras (evils), the group symbolizes women's power and their rights in the society. This group banned consuming alcohol in the village and also the entry of anybody in a drunken state.

According to another villager one Doma Ansari, 25, ''these women mean business," because he too was a recipient of the ''broom - stick'' treatment meted out by his angered wife when he caused a ruckus in a tipsy condition in the village during the same time; he moved like a male mad elephant experiencing musth. He tasted the trash and its effect on him and he never wanted to take a glance at the liquor bottle. The men in the village had no craving for the alcoholic brew, not even its odor. No temptation; if they had some kind of itching for the brew, they knew they would be pulverized by these emboldened women.

Banauli, Rohtas district of Bihar is a small village a 150-house settlement, inhabited by , very poor Dalits and some Muslims as well. The media reports point out poor women's all-out war on their drunk husbands that had a domino effect on them and others in this area. This new development changes the social fabric of this place and offers the affected women to breathe and give respite from ill treatment. It will help them take their lives forward to give a decent future to their aspiring kids. The District Magistrate gives a full support to the anti-alcohol campaign by these maverick women.
https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/drunk-husbands-taste-women-power/story-6OYdLaQvf7oQ8hsyH8XYTM.html.


India: husband getting clobbered. .dailyhunt.in

Domestic violence. entertales.com

Accustomed to hearing ill-treatment and torture of Indian wives in the media, the news of a group of men approaching a counseling center in Uttar Pradesh to report their being tortured by their wives may give you either a good laugh or make you become tongue-tied. If you are looking for a prospective bride, you may shiver!! Domestic violence and abuse of wives in households is a global problem and have been around in India for several decades. In the case of men, their drinking problem is the root cause of domestic violence. As for women, their perpetual torture in the hands of men drives them to desperation and retaliation. Way past the Indian media never gave coverage to crime against women because family members were afraid to go to the police for the simple reason this would give a woman a bad name and face criticism'. Men in those days took advantage of holes in the Indian laws with respect to women. In the modern scenario, in the light of woman empowerment, active media reporting and easy Internet access, wrongs committed against women get easily exposed in a jiff.


Indian wife chasing her husband with a broom. entertales.com

pinrest

Things are changing now, so is the attitude of women toward their husbands. The harassment of daughter-in-law by in-laws and husband is overshadowed by violence against men in India. The Indian law is backing women and what is happening is just opposite. Now, beleaguered Indian women hog the limelight and find a third place in a list of violence against men by wives. They have a force to reckon with and there is no stopping them. Even in the rural villages of countless places across India where drinking liquor among men is a haunting problem, women folks fight them back to kick the habit. The incidence of men facing woman's wreath at home has gone up in this country to some extent and, it may impact widely talked about subject - women's empowerment. In recent years, physical violence against men by wives spiked. The trauma may be the same, but the methods of inflicting abuse vary. A social researcher Anil Kumar says “Men are stronger and hit their wives, but women, in many cases, ask another man — their brother, father, friend or hired goons — to assault their husband.,”

In the case of male victims of torture by wives, it is not very much covered in the Indian media, unlike western media because for the males: ''As a man, to be beaten by your wife is desperately humiliating and, in a way, shameful.” Further, the Indian (or any other western) society is not sympathetic toward harassed men. They are subject to carping criticism, mockery and jokes. If they speak up publicly, they are tagged as ''unmanly'' According to Rukma Chary, general secretary, Save Indian Family Foundation : “Domestic violence against men in India is not recognized by the law. The general perception is that men cannot be victims of violence. This helps women get away scot-free.”

But women taking to thrashing chauvinistic erring husband, it seems, has become a new approach in the past decade or so. If a husband does go to the police, he may be slapped with a false dowry harassment case, etc., to shut him up. Besides, it is difficult to shake off the social stigma such innocent men may carry for a long time.
In the capital city of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh a youth, in a complaint to the Police Counseling Center, pleaded help to save him and his family members from his devilish wife whose forte was to torture his entire family. In the wake of this incident, several male members approached the Police counseling center about the unruly wives in their families.

pinrest.com

In another complaint in Faizullaganj, UP a man mentioned that his wife who had been living with him for about married 21 years had gone berserk and suddenly turned hostile, triggering verbal brawls, fights and chaos in the family. One night she broke my hand and ill-treated elders in the family, husband complained. His primary concern was about his ageing father.

According to Babita Singh, in-charge of the Counseling Center the crux of the problem was often the newly married woman never listened to her husband and sometimes threatened to get divorced, not respecting the solemn vows of matrimony.

The UN statistics taken in 2016 with respect to domestic violence -

abuse and beating husband came up with a shocking revelation that India took the third place. Egypt grabbed the first place followed by, hold your breath, the UK. Tools used by wives to beat their husband were mostly kitchen tools such as rolling pin. The data in India reveal that the women who harass and beat their better half file false dowry cases on in-laws to gain sympathy from the police. Consequently innocent people poignantly suffer.

By the same token, there are women who really suffer due to bad marriage and they refuse to go the court to avoid bad name and stigma on their character/family. Many people are of the view that men are suffering now because of their forefathers past sins - 'ill-treatment of their wives way back in the past when they were confined to the four walls of the house. ''Karma'' holds a firm grip on those who hurt others, be they humans or animals. The old quote ''marriages are made in heaven''is true of most cases. If you are bestowed with a good wife/husband, it is well and good and if it is on the contrary, you have to be submissive to the Karma and accept life as it comes.
https://m.dailyhunt.in/news/india/english/vice+daily-epaper-viceden
https://www.entertales.com/indian-wives-beating-husbands/

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/relationships/love-sex/when-husbands-are-victims-of-domestic-violence/articleshow/26031858.cms

The legend of Vaikuntha Ekadashi festival and importance of fasting

Vaikuntha Ekadashi at Padmanabha swamy temple, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala and at Badrachalam Sri Rama temple, Andhra

Intermittent fasting controls blood sugar level, says scientist, The Johns Hopkins University, USA

Great spiritualist Swami Vivekananda' - his 159th birth anniversary is coming up in January, 2020

The Tiruvalangadu Shiva temple and God Shiva's ''Urdlwa Tandava'' (dance), Tamil Nadu`

Dynamics of Hindu God ''Dancing Shiva'', a symbol of endlss flow of energy

Poor sleep quality may cause migraine - simple ways to mitigate it!!

Rajkumar Shukla, a patriot who helped Gandhiji launch his very first ''Satyagraha'' movement in Champaran, Bihar

Chini ka Rauza, a funerary monument of Mogul era, Agra, a simple, but inspiring structure

''Vitthal'' temple, Pandharpur, Maharastra, popular Sri Krishna temple

Popular Pandharpur Padayatra to the Vitthal temple, Maharastra -a strenuous religious undertaking!!

Lal Darwaza (Ruby Gate) Mosque, Jaunpur, UP - an attractive Muslim monument

Historical and colonial churches of Darjeeling, West bengal, India

Mysterious and eerie ''Ghost lights'' of the Rann of Kutch and West Bengal, India!!

Gates of Heaven opened, Srirangam Ranganathar temple, TN - an age old festival

Vaikuntha Ekadasi festival at Srivilliputhur Goddess Andal temple, TN - January,2020

Does more body weight hamper your intelligence?

Big Temple, Thanjavur, TN getting ready for 'Kumbabishekam (consecration) in February, 2020

Courageous wives of Bihar, India and drunk husbands

Indian wives hold the third place in the world in thrashing husbands!!