Petrol and diesel prices slashed:
In order to usher a feel-good factor dovetailed with the fiscal impetus package to be announced on Saturday, the UPA Government has decided to cut the price of petrol by Rs 5 per litre and diesel by Rs 2 per litre from Saturday, leaving cooking gas LPG unchanged."The cuts were decided in principle today after consulting Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Congress chairperson Sonia Gandhi. It has the approval of former Finance Minister P Chidambaram whom Petroleum Minister Murli Deora met Wednesday night," said our sources.
The respite would put extra money into people's pockets so that the net income effect could spur demand in a slowing economy. It would also reduce the inflationary pressure on the wholesale price index where Fuel, Power, Light & Lubricants Group has a weight of 14.23 percent. Since September, crude Oil prices have started sliding and are now at 2005 levels of $44 but the government could not revise prices downwards as the Model Code of Conduct for elections bars it from making any announcement that could be seen as appeasing voters. State-run oil marketing companies started earning extra returns from November with current month profit on petrol at Rs 14.89 a litre and on diesel at Rs 3.03 per litre. However, the three OMCs continue to lose Rs 17.26 per litre on kerosene and Rs 148.32 on a cylinder of LPG.
In June, the government raised the price of petrol by Rs 5 per litre, diesel by Rs 3 per litre and domestic LPG by Rs 50 per cylinder due to the high international prices of crude oil which touched a peak of $147 a barrel mid-July.
Friday, December 5, 2008
STATES MAY CUT SALES TAX
The long debated issue of a hike in fuel prices has come to an end. The government has finally announced the inevitable hike on Wednesday. Petrol prices have been hiked by 5 Rs while diesel will be dearer by 3 Rs. LPG will also cost Rs 50 more per cylinder. However, the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs, which approved the price hike, has not announced a hike in kerosene prices.
Congress party president Sonia Gandhi has asked chief ministers in party-ruled states to also cut sales tax on petroleum products. The Maharashtra government, led by the Congress party, has already indicated a likely cut.
Nearly half of retail auto fuel prices in India comprise of duties and taxes, with sales tax, which varies in different states, ranging from 10 percent to 30 percent.
Prices eased earlier, weighed by India and Malaysia's move on Wednesday to raise retail fuel prices. They joined a growing number of Asian nations no longer able to afford big subsidies in the face of record oil prices.
India raised retail petrol and diesel fuel prices by about 10 percent and Malaysia hiked petrol prices by 41 percent. Taiwan, Sri Lanka and Indonesia reviewed their subsidies last month.
*
Government raises fuel rates were based on international crude price of $135 per barrel. The previous steep hike was in September 2006.
*
Government cuts 5% customs duty on crude, bringing the rate to 0% customs duties on petrol and diesel to 2.5% and ATF and naphtha for non-fertiliser use to 5 per cent.
*
Excise on petrol cut by Re 1 a litre to Rs 13.45, and on diesel to Rs 3.60.
*
Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum and Hindustan Petroleum would have suffered a loss of Rs 2,45,305 crore. Hike will give them Rs 21,153 crore, government will forego Rs 22,660 crore.
*
Inflation may go beyond 10% because of the impact of the hike.
We are helpless. There was no other option as the losses of the oil companies were huge, ‘he petroleum minister, Mr Murli Deora, said at a press conference while announcing the hikes. The price of kerosene, the so-called poor man’s fuel, was untouched. The Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs, which met in the morning, gave its approval. After the hike, petrol in New Delhi will cost Rs 50.56 per litre, diesel Rs 34.80 per litre and LPG Rs 344.75. The public sector oil companies will save about Rs 21,000 crores. All Opposition parties criticise hike. Left demands review, calls for agitation.
West Bengal, ruled by the central government’s communist allies, has cut sales tax on auto fuels by about 5 percent, in an effort to reduce the impact of Wednesday's fuel price increase.
West Bengal said it will incur a 5-billion-rupee loss by cutting sales tax on petrol to 20 percent from 25 percent earlier, and sales tax on diesel to 12.5 percent from 17 percent.
The benefit to consumers will range between 1.4 rupees to 2.1 rupees a litre, the government said in a statement.
Opposition-ruled Bihar has also cut sales tax on diesel by 1.64 percentage points to 18.36 percent and on petrol by 2.5 percentage points to 24.5 percent, nearly negating the fuel price hike.
Another communist-ruled state, Kerala, has also agreed in-principle to cut sales tax, but is expected to announce the change next week, a government official said.
India raised petrol and diesel prices by about 10 percent on Wednesday, its biggest increase in 12 years, as pressure of near-record high crude prices forced the government to cut back the mounting subsidy bill.
The move, which has already stirred political protests, is expected to drive inflation to a 13-year high of over 9 percent, analysts said.
Congress party president Sonia Gandhi has asked chief ministers in party-ruled states to also cut sales tax on petroleum products. The Maharashtra government, led by the Congress party, has already indicated a likely cut.
Nearly half of retail auto fuel prices in India comprise of duties and taxes, with sales tax, which varies in different states, ranging from 10 percent to 30 percent.
Prices eased earlier, weighed by India and Malaysia's move on Wednesday to raise retail fuel prices. They joined a growing number of Asian nations no longer able to afford big subsidies in the face of record oil prices.
India raised retail petrol and diesel fuel prices by about 10 percent and Malaysia hiked petrol prices by 41 percent. Taiwan, Sri Lanka and Indonesia reviewed their subsidies last month.
*
Government raises fuel rates were based on international crude price of $135 per barrel. The previous steep hike was in September 2006.
*
Government cuts 5% customs duty on crude, bringing the rate to 0% customs duties on petrol and diesel to 2.5% and ATF and naphtha for non-fertiliser use to 5 per cent.
*
Excise on petrol cut by Re 1 a litre to Rs 13.45, and on diesel to Rs 3.60.
*
Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum and Hindustan Petroleum would have suffered a loss of Rs 2,45,305 crore. Hike will give them Rs 21,153 crore, government will forego Rs 22,660 crore.
*
Inflation may go beyond 10% because of the impact of the hike.
We are helpless. There was no other option as the losses of the oil companies were huge, ‘he petroleum minister, Mr Murli Deora, said at a press conference while announcing the hikes. The price of kerosene, the so-called poor man’s fuel, was untouched. The Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs, which met in the morning, gave its approval. After the hike, petrol in New Delhi will cost Rs 50.56 per litre, diesel Rs 34.80 per litre and LPG Rs 344.75. The public sector oil companies will save about Rs 21,000 crores. All Opposition parties criticise hike. Left demands review, calls for agitation.
West Bengal, ruled by the central government’s communist allies, has cut sales tax on auto fuels by about 5 percent, in an effort to reduce the impact of Wednesday's fuel price increase.
West Bengal said it will incur a 5-billion-rupee loss by cutting sales tax on petrol to 20 percent from 25 percent earlier, and sales tax on diesel to 12.5 percent from 17 percent.
The benefit to consumers will range between 1.4 rupees to 2.1 rupees a litre, the government said in a statement.
Opposition-ruled Bihar has also cut sales tax on diesel by 1.64 percentage points to 18.36 percent and on petrol by 2.5 percentage points to 24.5 percent, nearly negating the fuel price hike.
Another communist-ruled state, Kerala, has also agreed in-principle to cut sales tax, but is expected to announce the change next week, a government official said.
India raised petrol and diesel prices by about 10 percent on Wednesday, its biggest increase in 12 years, as pressure of near-record high crude prices forced the government to cut back the mounting subsidy bill.
The move, which has already stirred political protests, is expected to drive inflation to a 13-year high of over 9 percent, analysts said.
India cuts petrol, diesel prices to rein in inflation
The Indian government, battling a galloping inflation, Thursday said it was cutting the prices of petrol and diesel by Rs.2 and Re.1 a litre respectively, aided by the decline in international crude oil prices.
The move followed some high-level talks Petroleum Minister Murli Deora had over the past week with ruling United Progressive Alliance (UPA) chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Finance Minister P. Chidambaram.
Sonia Gandhi and Manmohan Singh were reportedly in favour of ensuring that since global crude prices had dropped, the burden on the common person should be eased to whatever extent possible, especially since inflation had risen to new peaks.
The reduction was to take effect midnight Thursday, with Deora indicating further cuts in the coming weeks. 'The finance ministry will decide the reduction of customs and excise duties in crude oil,' he said.
Petrol will now cost Rs.42.85 a litre in the national capital while diesel will retail for Rs.30.25 - in line with an IANS report last week. In June 2006, the government had hiked the prices of the two fuels by Rs.4 and Rs.2, respectively.
The decision has also left consumers happy.
'I have a budget of Rs.2,500 per month for petrol. Now, I'll be able to drive a little more,' said Moses Phillip, who works as a sales engineer in an electrical and electronics company.
'On Sundays, when I would ask my husband to take me out, high petrol cost was an excuse he would normally use. Now that there is some reprieve, I hope he doesn't find some other alibi to deny my kids and I some weekend outings,' said Swapna Gupta, a homemaker in east Delhi.
Thursday's decision also followed some tight monetary policy measures taken in the past weeks by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) where the cash reserve ratio (CRR) and the repurchase rate on government securities were hiked.
According to petroleum ministry officials, while the cut in prices of diesel will mean a loss of Rs.2-Rs.2.5 a litre on diesel, the revised rate for petrol will mean a no-profit-no-loss exercise.
'The burden of this price reduction will be met partly by the revenue inflows and partly through oil bonds that have already been approved,' Deora told a press conference here.
He said out of Rs.283 billion worth of bonds approved earlier, Rs.191.5 billion had already been issued.
'We have kept our promise that if international crude oil prices come down, we will bring down retail prices. In fact, we hope to bring it down further to June 2006 levels,' Deora said.
In June 2006, when the last price increase was announced, the Indian oil basket was at $67 per barrel, which jumped to $75 by August. But since then there has been a consistent dip in the Indian basket pricing, down to $52 per barrel in recent weeks.
On the other hand, the annual rate of inflation based on the official wholesale price index moved up to 6.73 percent for the week ended Feb 3, from a level of 3.98 percent a year ago.
The petroleum ministry had done a study based on the refinery transfer price in the second week of January, which called for a cut of Rs.3.60 per litre in petrol, and Re.0.36 in diesel in the capital.
But officials said that even at the current global crude price of $56 per barrel, state-run oil marketing firms were incurring heavy under-recoveries on subsidised kerosene and cooking gas.
The move followed some high-level talks Petroleum Minister Murli Deora had over the past week with ruling United Progressive Alliance (UPA) chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Finance Minister P. Chidambaram.
Sonia Gandhi and Manmohan Singh were reportedly in favour of ensuring that since global crude prices had dropped, the burden on the common person should be eased to whatever extent possible, especially since inflation had risen to new peaks.
The reduction was to take effect midnight Thursday, with Deora indicating further cuts in the coming weeks. 'The finance ministry will decide the reduction of customs and excise duties in crude oil,' he said.
Petrol will now cost Rs.42.85 a litre in the national capital while diesel will retail for Rs.30.25 - in line with an IANS report last week. In June 2006, the government had hiked the prices of the two fuels by Rs.4 and Rs.2, respectively.
The decision has also left consumers happy.
'I have a budget of Rs.2,500 per month for petrol. Now, I'll be able to drive a little more,' said Moses Phillip, who works as a sales engineer in an electrical and electronics company.
'On Sundays, when I would ask my husband to take me out, high petrol cost was an excuse he would normally use. Now that there is some reprieve, I hope he doesn't find some other alibi to deny my kids and I some weekend outings,' said Swapna Gupta, a homemaker in east Delhi.
Thursday's decision also followed some tight monetary policy measures taken in the past weeks by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) where the cash reserve ratio (CRR) and the repurchase rate on government securities were hiked.
According to petroleum ministry officials, while the cut in prices of diesel will mean a loss of Rs.2-Rs.2.5 a litre on diesel, the revised rate for petrol will mean a no-profit-no-loss exercise.
'The burden of this price reduction will be met partly by the revenue inflows and partly through oil bonds that have already been approved,' Deora told a press conference here.
He said out of Rs.283 billion worth of bonds approved earlier, Rs.191.5 billion had already been issued.
'We have kept our promise that if international crude oil prices come down, we will bring down retail prices. In fact, we hope to bring it down further to June 2006 levels,' Deora said.
In June 2006, when the last price increase was announced, the Indian oil basket was at $67 per barrel, which jumped to $75 by August. But since then there has been a consistent dip in the Indian basket pricing, down to $52 per barrel in recent weeks.
On the other hand, the annual rate of inflation based on the official wholesale price index moved up to 6.73 percent for the week ended Feb 3, from a level of 3.98 percent a year ago.
The petroleum ministry had done a study based on the refinery transfer price in the second week of January, which called for a cut of Rs.3.60 per litre in petrol, and Re.0.36 in diesel in the capital.
But officials said that even at the current global crude price of $56 per barrel, state-run oil marketing firms were incurring heavy under-recoveries on subsidised kerosene and cooking gas.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Three Major FM in Madurai
Radio Mirchi and Suryan FM announced their entries into the markets of Madurai and Tuticorin over the week. While Suryan FM had two new stations launching in Tamil Nadu in the cities of Madurai and Tuticorin, Radio Mirchi launched its station in Madurai. Earlier, Hello FM had also announced its launch in three cities of Tamil Nadu -- Tuticorin, Madurai and Tirunelveli – for the first week of October.
Suryan FM, launched by Sun Network and Kal Radio, were launched on the same date, thus taking the tally of operational radio stations of the Sun Network to 11.
Suryan FM will wake up Madurai with ‘Sooryodhayam’ at 5 am, followed by ‘Kalai Thendral’ at 6 am. Other programmes on the channel include ‘Anbudan Suryan FM’ at 7 am, ‘Vanakkam Madurai’ at 8 am, ‘Blade No. 1’ at 9 am, ‘Chinathambi and periyathambi’ at 10 am, followed by ‘Ungalukkaga’ at 11 am. Another show ‘Oor Suthalam Vanga’ will be broadcast through OB vans, with the radio station’s RJ visiting several locations, meeting listeners and playing their requests. On the other hand, Suryan FM in Tuticorin will have a similar FPC like its Tirunelveli radio station.
Radio Mirchi FM launched its Madurai station, taking the total number of its stations to 24 across the country. The Madurai station has a mixed content that includes the early morning show ‘Filter Kaapi’, breakfast show ‘Hello Madurai’, as also ‘Ladies Colony’, ‘Kolly Udaans’, ‘Joot’, ‘Mirchi Nites’ and ‘Kadala Kadala’. Radio Mirchi will roll out eight more radio stations by the end of the year to complete a total number of 32 stations in the country.
Meow 104.8 FM, the radio initiative from the India Today Group, was officially launched in Kolkata on October 5. The FM station, with the tagline ‘Thodi Meethi, Thodi Catty’, will have a mix of programming for the ‘she’ listener.
Commenting on the Kolkata launch, Anil Srivatsa, COO, Radio Today Broadcasting Ltd, said, “We are really happy to bring Meow to Kolkata and I am hoping that the women of Kolkata will embrace Meow as a platform that afford them a voice in their lives. The Meow revolution has begun and we hope the women’s movement is a little more complete with us. We look forward to taking Meow to many more cities in the future.”
Suryan FM, launched by Sun Network and Kal Radio, were launched on the same date, thus taking the tally of operational radio stations of the Sun Network to 11.
Suryan FM will wake up Madurai with ‘Sooryodhayam’ at 5 am, followed by ‘Kalai Thendral’ at 6 am. Other programmes on the channel include ‘Anbudan Suryan FM’ at 7 am, ‘Vanakkam Madurai’ at 8 am, ‘Blade No. 1’ at 9 am, ‘Chinathambi and periyathambi’ at 10 am, followed by ‘Ungalukkaga’ at 11 am. Another show ‘Oor Suthalam Vanga’ will be broadcast through OB vans, with the radio station’s RJ visiting several locations, meeting listeners and playing their requests. On the other hand, Suryan FM in Tuticorin will have a similar FPC like its Tirunelveli radio station.
Radio Mirchi FM launched its Madurai station, taking the total number of its stations to 24 across the country. The Madurai station has a mixed content that includes the early morning show ‘Filter Kaapi’, breakfast show ‘Hello Madurai’, as also ‘Ladies Colony’, ‘Kolly Udaans’, ‘Joot’, ‘Mirchi Nites’ and ‘Kadala Kadala’. Radio Mirchi will roll out eight more radio stations by the end of the year to complete a total number of 32 stations in the country.
Meow 104.8 FM, the radio initiative from the India Today Group, was officially launched in Kolkata on October 5. The FM station, with the tagline ‘Thodi Meethi, Thodi Catty’, will have a mix of programming for the ‘she’ listener.
Commenting on the Kolkata launch, Anil Srivatsa, COO, Radio Today Broadcasting Ltd, said, “We are really happy to bring Meow to Kolkata and I am hoping that the women of Kolkata will embrace Meow as a platform that afford them a voice in their lives. The Meow revolution has begun and we hope the women’s movement is a little more complete with us. We look forward to taking Meow to many more cities in the future.”
Suryan FM
Sun TV Network Ltd, India’s second largest television network has launched its FM Radio Station at Siliguri under the brand 'S FM' through its Subsidiary South Asia FM Ltd.
The programs will cater to the audience of all age groups and the station can be heard at 93.5 MHz frequency at Siliguri.
With the launch of this FM Station, the total operational FM Stations of Sun TV goes up to 43 as it already operates at Chennai, Coimbatore, Tirunelveli, Visakhapatnam, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Bhubaneswar, Titupati, Madurai, Tuticorin, Lucknow, Bhopal, Pondicherry, Kozhikode (Calicut), Indore, Vijayawada, Varanasi, Tiruchy, Rajahmundry, Kanpur, Thiruvananthapuram, Thrissur, Mangalore, Kannur, Allahabad, Jabalpur, Mysore, Guwahati, Jamshedpur, Nasik, Vadodara, Rajkot, Aurangabad, Ahmedabad, Warangal, Nagpur, Kochi, Gulbarga, Asansol, Shillong and Pune.
Kalanidhi Maran-promoted media group Sun TV Network Limited holds licenses for 45 FM Radio Stations across India, and will be one of the largest radio broadcasters in India when all the remaining 2 stations become operational.
Kalanidhi Maran-promoted media group Sun TV today said it will launch two FM radio stations at Madurai and Tuticorin in Tamil Nadu from tomorrow.
"These Stations can be heard at 93.5 MHz frequency in Madurai and Tuticorin and the programs will cater to the audience of all age groups," Sun TV said in a communique to the Bombay Stock Exchange.
The two new stations would be launched under the brand 'Suryan FM' through a Sun TV subsidiary Kal Radio Ltd. With the launch of these two FM channels, the total operational FM stations of the group goes up to 11, Sun TV said.
Earlier, on August 24 the group had launched a FM radio station at Tirupati under the brand "S FM". Also, on August 30 Sun TV had bought 48.9 per cent stake in Red FM to strengthen its FM radio broadcasting business in northern, western and eastern regions of the country.
The media group already operates FM stations at Chennai, Coimbatore, Tirunelveli, Visakhapatnam, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Bhubaneswar and Tirupati.
Sun TV holds licences for 45 FM radio stations across India, and would be one of the largest radio broadcasters in India when all the remaining 34 stations become operational. (Agencies)
The programs will cater to the audience of all age groups and the station can be heard at 93.5 MHz frequency at Siliguri.
With the launch of this FM Station, the total operational FM Stations of Sun TV goes up to 43 as it already operates at Chennai, Coimbatore, Tirunelveli, Visakhapatnam, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Bhubaneswar, Titupati, Madurai, Tuticorin, Lucknow, Bhopal, Pondicherry, Kozhikode (Calicut), Indore, Vijayawada, Varanasi, Tiruchy, Rajahmundry, Kanpur, Thiruvananthapuram, Thrissur, Mangalore, Kannur, Allahabad, Jabalpur, Mysore, Guwahati, Jamshedpur, Nasik, Vadodara, Rajkot, Aurangabad, Ahmedabad, Warangal, Nagpur, Kochi, Gulbarga, Asansol, Shillong and Pune.
Kalanidhi Maran-promoted media group Sun TV Network Limited holds licenses for 45 FM Radio Stations across India, and will be one of the largest radio broadcasters in India when all the remaining 2 stations become operational.
Kalanidhi Maran-promoted media group Sun TV today said it will launch two FM radio stations at Madurai and Tuticorin in Tamil Nadu from tomorrow.
"These Stations can be heard at 93.5 MHz frequency in Madurai and Tuticorin and the programs will cater to the audience of all age groups," Sun TV said in a communique to the Bombay Stock Exchange.
The two new stations would be launched under the brand 'Suryan FM' through a Sun TV subsidiary Kal Radio Ltd. With the launch of these two FM channels, the total operational FM stations of the group goes up to 11, Sun TV said.
Earlier, on August 24 the group had launched a FM radio station at Tirupati under the brand "S FM". Also, on August 30 Sun TV had bought 48.9 per cent stake in Red FM to strengthen its FM radio broadcasting business in northern, western and eastern regions of the country.
The media group already operates FM stations at Chennai, Coimbatore, Tirunelveli, Visakhapatnam, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Bhubaneswar and Tirupati.
Sun TV holds licences for 45 FM radio stations across India, and would be one of the largest radio broadcasters in India when all the remaining 34 stations become operational. (Agencies)
Gyan Vani - Radio Madurai
A ‘Gyan Vani’ Frequency Modulation Radio Station for education broadcasting has been sanctioned for Madurai by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to be implemented through the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU).
An agreement was signed by the officials of the IGNOU and Madurai Kamaraj University recently. The radio station will be set up on university campus.
For Tamil Nadu, two more ‘Gyan Vani’ radio stations are to be announced soon for Bharathidasan University in Tiruchi and for Manonmaniam Sundaranar University in Tirunelveli, official sources here told The Hindu on Wednesday.
“The MKU will soon be joining a league of institutions such as Anna University by getting this facility to reach the unreached,” R. Karpaga Kumaravel, Vice-Chancellor of MKU, said here.
The Ministry would provide financial assistance of Rs.1 crore for this higher education initiative, he said.
The ‘Gyan Vani’ (Madurai) project will be implemented with the help of a local steering committee consisting of eminent educationists and personalities with experience in audio-video production besides the Vice-Chancellor.
While the Ministry of Telecommunications allotted frequencies, the Ministry of Human Resource Development has agreed to offer all support in running the stations, according to the MoU documents, which were signed on behalf of I. Singaram, Registrar.
“I am personally interested in technological empowerment of students and no stone will be left unturned to reach out to rural students. Gyan Vani broadcasting will be a powerful medium for us,” Dr. Karpaga Kumaravel said.
The MoU documents signed by Madurai Kamaraj university officials were now forwarded to the Electronic Media Production Centre of the IGNOU, which is the nodal agency for clearing FM stations.
According to K. Pannerselvam, Regional Director, IGNOU, there are right now two ‘Gyan Vani’ stations in the State, one in Chennai and another in Coimbatore.
An agreement was signed by the officials of the IGNOU and Madurai Kamaraj University recently. The radio station will be set up on university campus.
For Tamil Nadu, two more ‘Gyan Vani’ radio stations are to be announced soon for Bharathidasan University in Tiruchi and for Manonmaniam Sundaranar University in Tirunelveli, official sources here told The Hindu on Wednesday.
“The MKU will soon be joining a league of institutions such as Anna University by getting this facility to reach the unreached,” R. Karpaga Kumaravel, Vice-Chancellor of MKU, said here.
The Ministry would provide financial assistance of Rs.1 crore for this higher education initiative, he said.
The ‘Gyan Vani’ (Madurai) project will be implemented with the help of a local steering committee consisting of eminent educationists and personalities with experience in audio-video production besides the Vice-Chancellor.
While the Ministry of Telecommunications allotted frequencies, the Ministry of Human Resource Development has agreed to offer all support in running the stations, according to the MoU documents, which were signed on behalf of I. Singaram, Registrar.
“I am personally interested in technological empowerment of students and no stone will be left unturned to reach out to rural students. Gyan Vani broadcasting will be a powerful medium for us,” Dr. Karpaga Kumaravel said.
The MoU documents signed by Madurai Kamaraj university officials were now forwarded to the Electronic Media Production Centre of the IGNOU, which is the nodal agency for clearing FM stations.
According to K. Pannerselvam, Regional Director, IGNOU, there are right now two ‘Gyan Vani’ stations in the State, one in Chennai and another in Coimbatore.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Maduri Kamaraj Distance Education
1) Course Offered:
B.A., in History / Economics / Political Science / Social Science / English Literature / Tamil Literature / B.Sc.(Maths), B.Com., B.B.A.
Eligibility:
Completion of 18 years of age
M.A., in History / Economics /Political Science / Public Administration / English Literature / Tamil Literature / Gandhian Thought / Philosophy & Religion/Labour Management / Sociology / M.Com
Eligibility:
Completion of 21 years of age
Application procedure: Application cum Prospectus can be had from the Programme Officers of the following Information / Study Centres of the Directorate in Northern States on payment of Rs.50/- for all Degree and P.G. Courses. Send Demand Draft in the name of Programme Officer of the respective Centre. Postal Charges Rs.30/- extra.
Contact :
DR. T. JOHN SAHAYAM CHELLIAH
Director
MADURAI - 625 021
2) Course offered: MSc. genomics
Eligibility: Bachelor's degree in science with minimum 50% marks in any of the life sciences
Duration of the course: 4 semesters
Brochure and application forms: Available from the university on payment of Rs 600/- in person and Rs650/- by post through DD drawn in favour of the Registrar of the University, payable at Madurai
Date of entrance examination: July
Last date for submission of applications: Mid July
3) Courses offered: Various courses based on Information Technology, Professional, Postgraduate & Diploma Courses
Eligibility: Completion of 18 years of age as on 31 December of the same year and a pass in entrance examination
Application forms and Prospectus: Available in person or through post from the university on production of Demand Draft drawn in favour of the "Director" of the University
Last date for submitting applications: 30 April
Apply to: The Director, Madurai Kamaraj University, Palkalai Nagar, Mumbai - 625 021
For more details: email - ddemku@md3.vsnl.net.in
4) Courses offered: MCA, BCA, PGDCA and other IT related courses
Brochures and application forms: Available on payment of the requisite fees in person or by post in the form of a DD drawn in favour of the The Director, DDE, Madurai Kamaraj universityPalkalai Nagar,Madurai 625021
Last date for receipt of application forms: March
5) Courses offered : Various courses related to information, professional, post graduate, M.Phil, etc.
Eligibility : Completion of 21 years af age as on 31 December of the same year and a a pass in the entrance test.
Application forms and Prospectus : Can be obtained by sending Demand Draft of Rs. 280/- (M.B.A, & M.C.A), Rs. 130/- (M.Phil., B.C.A.), Rs. 80/- ( for others) drawn in favour of “ The Director, D.D.E., Madurai University, Palkalai Nagar, Madurai – 625021.
Last Date for submission of filled in application : March
Apply to : The Director, D.D.E., Madurain Kamaraj University, Palkalai Nagar, Madurai – 625021.
E-mail us at : ddemku@md3.vsnl.net.in
B.A., in History / Economics / Political Science / Social Science / English Literature / Tamil Literature / B.Sc.(Maths), B.Com., B.B.A.
Eligibility:
Completion of 18 years of age
M.A., in History / Economics /Political Science / Public Administration / English Literature / Tamil Literature / Gandhian Thought / Philosophy & Religion/Labour Management / Sociology / M.Com
Eligibility:
Completion of 21 years of age
Application procedure: Application cum Prospectus can be had from the Programme Officers of the following Information / Study Centres of the Directorate in Northern States on payment of Rs.50/- for all Degree and P.G. Courses. Send Demand Draft in the name of Programme Officer of the respective Centre. Postal Charges Rs.30/- extra.
Contact :
DR. T. JOHN SAHAYAM CHELLIAH
Director
MADURAI - 625 021
2) Course offered: MSc. genomics
Eligibility: Bachelor's degree in science with minimum 50% marks in any of the life sciences
Duration of the course: 4 semesters
Brochure and application forms: Available from the university on payment of Rs 600/- in person and Rs650/- by post through DD drawn in favour of the Registrar of the University, payable at Madurai
Date of entrance examination: July
Last date for submission of applications: Mid July
3) Courses offered: Various courses based on Information Technology, Professional, Postgraduate & Diploma Courses
Eligibility: Completion of 18 years of age as on 31 December of the same year and a pass in entrance examination
Application forms and Prospectus: Available in person or through post from the university on production of Demand Draft drawn in favour of the "Director" of the University
Last date for submitting applications: 30 April
Apply to: The Director, Madurai Kamaraj University, Palkalai Nagar, Mumbai - 625 021
For more details: email - ddemku@md3.vsnl.net.in
4) Courses offered: MCA, BCA, PGDCA and other IT related courses
Brochures and application forms: Available on payment of the requisite fees in person or by post in the form of a DD drawn in favour of the The Director, DDE, Madurai Kamaraj universityPalkalai Nagar,Madurai 625021
Last date for receipt of application forms: March
5) Courses offered : Various courses related to information, professional, post graduate, M.Phil, etc.
Eligibility : Completion of 21 years af age as on 31 December of the same year and a a pass in the entrance test.
Application forms and Prospectus : Can be obtained by sending Demand Draft of Rs. 280/- (M.B.A, & M.C.A), Rs. 130/- (M.Phil., B.C.A.), Rs. 80/- ( for others) drawn in favour of “ The Director, D.D.E., Madurai University, Palkalai Nagar, Madurai – 625021.
Last Date for submission of filled in application : March
Apply to : The Director, D.D.E., Madurain Kamaraj University, Palkalai Nagar, Madurai – 625021.
E-mail us at : ddemku@md3.vsnl.net.in
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Pillaiyarpatti - Karaikudi
Sri Karpaga Vinayagar Temple,
History of the Temple
Pillaiyarpatti is named after 'Pillayar' - the Tamil name for Ganesa, and this ancient temple houses rock cut images of Shiva, Lingodbhavar and others as well as several other shrines. Steeped in the tradition of Agamic texts the temple bears testimony to the vibrant temple culture of the Tamil people, passed down through centuries. Karpaka Vinayakar or Desi Vinayaka Pillaiyar is the presiding deity here, and he is portrayed with two arms and a trunk curled towards his right in the valampuri mode.
This 6 feet tall mammoth image of Ganesa is a bas-relief in an excavated cave, off of a hill in the precincts of the temple. Tiruveesar is a Shiva Lingam carved in a similar manner. Other deities in the temple include Marudankudi Eesar and his consort Vaadaamalar Mangai . Over 15 inscriptions on stones (kalvet) are found within the temple, which helps to establish the age of this temple. The history of the temple classifies the growth of this temple into three distinct stages. The first stage goes back in time by about 1600 years. During this period, the innermost rock cut shrines housing Karpaka Vinayakar and Tiruveesar came into being. The uniqueness of the image of Ganesa is one factor testifying this date. There are several inscriptions within this temple that dates back to the period between 1091 AD and 1238 AD,making it apparent that the Pillayarpatti Nagarattar became the custodians of the temple during the 13th century AD during the second growth of this temple, when Vimanams and Rajagopurams were built. The third phase of growth is much more recent and it involved the repair, rebuilding and refurbishment of the entire temple complex, including the renovation of the temple tank. The tank and the two Raja Gopurams provide an attractive approach to the temple.
Deities
Karpaka Vinayakar or Desi Vinayaka Pillaiyar is the presiding deity here, and he is portrayed with two arms and a trunk curled towards his right in the valampuri mode. This 6 feet tall mammoth image of Ganesha is a bas relief in an excavated cave, off of a hill in the precincts of the temple. Tiruveesar is a Shiva Lingam carved in a similar manner. Other deities in the temple include Marudankudi Eesar and his consort Vaadaamalar Mangai.
Location of the Temple
Sri Karpaga Vinayakar temple is situated in Pillayarpatti, Sivagangai district near Karaikudi of Tamilnadu, India. The rock cut Karpaka Vinayakar Shrine at Pillayarpatti is one of the oldest Cave Temples (Rock Cut) temples of Tamilnadu
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Festivals
Chithirai Festival
This festival is celebrated between the months of April and May (Chithirai - according to the Tamil Calendar), when the celestial marriage of Meenakshi to Sundareswarer is celebrated , Azhagar travels to Madurai. A gold processional icon called The Sundararajar is carried by devotees in procession from Azhagar Koil to Madurai for wedding ritual.
The Float Festival
Held in January - February, the float festival takes place in the Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam. The night comes alive as the specially constructed raft carried the deities around the lake. Brightly lit with flowers on all sides, not to mention the throng of people that gather to watch the fetivalm there is a sense of peace that this ritual seems to inspire. decorated with flowers and lights carries the deities around the tank.
The images of Meenakshi and Lord Sundareshwara are mounted on floats or rafts, and taken to the Mariamman Teppakkulam Tank. The illuminated rafts embellished with flowers are floated on the waters of the tank. The floats carry them back to the central shrine amidst chants and music.
Avanimoola Festival
Held in late August or early September, the Avanimoola festival marks the coronation of Sundareshwara (Shiva). The special feature of the festival is its series of plays based on the myths from the legend of the temple. The coronation of the deity and the procession of the images all form an integral part of this elaborate festival.
Panguni Festival
Panguni Festival is a 14-day annual event is held in the Tirupparankundram temple during April/May. The celebrations mark the coronation of Lord Subramanya and his marriage to Devyani, the daughter of Indra. The festivities involve elaborate coronation rituals, wedding ceremonies and grand processions. The deities from the Meenakshi temple actually travel in a procession to attend the wedding and return in the evening.
This festival is celebrated between the months of April and May (Chithirai - according to the Tamil Calendar), when the celestial marriage of Meenakshi to Sundareswarer is celebrated , Azhagar travels to Madurai. A gold processional icon called The Sundararajar is carried by devotees in procession from Azhagar Koil to Madurai for wedding ritual.
The Float Festival
Held in January - February, the float festival takes place in the Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam. The night comes alive as the specially constructed raft carried the deities around the lake. Brightly lit with flowers on all sides, not to mention the throng of people that gather to watch the fetivalm there is a sense of peace that this ritual seems to inspire. decorated with flowers and lights carries the deities around the tank.
The images of Meenakshi and Lord Sundareshwara are mounted on floats or rafts, and taken to the Mariamman Teppakkulam Tank. The illuminated rafts embellished with flowers are floated on the waters of the tank. The floats carry them back to the central shrine amidst chants and music.
Avanimoola Festival
Held in late August or early September, the Avanimoola festival marks the coronation of Sundareshwara (Shiva). The special feature of the festival is its series of plays based on the myths from the legend of the temple. The coronation of the deity and the procession of the images all form an integral part of this elaborate festival.
Panguni Festival
Panguni Festival is a 14-day annual event is held in the Tirupparankundram temple during April/May. The celebrations mark the coronation of Lord Subramanya and his marriage to Devyani, the daughter of Indra. The festivities involve elaborate coronation rituals, wedding ceremonies and grand processions. The deities from the Meenakshi temple actually travel in a procession to attend the wedding and return in the evening.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Royal Court
Rating:
Budget
Address:
No.4, West Veli Street,
Opp: Railway Station,
Madurai - 625 001
India
Accessibility:
10 kms from Airport and 3 kms from railway station.
Locational Advantage:
Royal Court is located in the heart of the shopping centre.
Hotel Description:
Royal Court is a well-known budget hotel in Madurai. The hotel is centrally located in the heart of the shopping centre and is close to the Meenakshi temple. The hotel staff is friendly and takes care of the needs of the guests. The Royal Court offers the first-class style and service to its guests.
Accommodation at Royal Court:
Royal Court offers a total of 70 centrally air-conditioned guest rooms. All the rooms are well equipped with contemporary amenities.
Amenities & Services at Royal Court:
Restaurant, Car Parking Available, Internet Access, Laundry, Bar, Security Lockers, Luggage Storage, Swimming Pool, Children Friendly, Telephone/Fax Facilities, 24 Hour Reception, Travel Desk/Travel Info, Key Card Access, Lift / Elevator, Bike Parking, Free Car Park, No Smoking, Free Internet Access, Taxes Not included in price, Gym, Smoking Rooms, 24 hours check in.
Budget
Address:
No.4, West Veli Street,
Opp: Railway Station,
Madurai - 625 001
India
Accessibility:
10 kms from Airport and 3 kms from railway station.
Locational Advantage:
Royal Court is located in the heart of the shopping centre.
Hotel Description:
Royal Court is a well-known budget hotel in Madurai. The hotel is centrally located in the heart of the shopping centre and is close to the Meenakshi temple. The hotel staff is friendly and takes care of the needs of the guests. The Royal Court offers the first-class style and service to its guests.
Accommodation at Royal Court:
Royal Court offers a total of 70 centrally air-conditioned guest rooms. All the rooms are well equipped with contemporary amenities.
Amenities & Services at Royal Court:
Restaurant, Car Parking Available, Internet Access, Laundry, Bar, Security Lockers, Luggage Storage, Swimming Pool, Children Friendly, Telephone/Fax Facilities, 24 Hour Reception, Travel Desk/Travel Info, Key Card Access, Lift / Elevator, Bike Parking, Free Car Park, No Smoking, Free Internet Access, Taxes Not included in price, Gym, Smoking Rooms, 24 hours check in.
Accomodation
While you are on your trip to Madurai, the temple city, you will not have a problem, finding a comfortable stay for yourself. The city has a number of accommodation options ranging from deluxe hotels to inexpensive guesthouses. You can choose from amongst a wide range of options, according to your need and pocket. Given below is some more information on the accommodation options in the Madurai city of India.
Hotels
There are a number of hotels in Madurai which can prove to be good accommodation options. Some of the good hotels in the city are:
* Best Western Germanus Hotel
It is a three-star business-class hotel and is located at a distance of 1 km from the railway station and the city bus stand and around 12 km from the airport.
* Hotel Sangam
It is located in the heart of the city and provides facilities like swimming pool, conference and banquet hall, restaurant, money exchange, travel agency, doctor on call, car rental, shopping arcade, etc.
* Hotel Taj Garden Retreat
This hotel is hundred years old and is located on the Pasumalai hill, at a distance of 15 km from the Madurai airport. The hotel provides a panoramic view of the Temple City and the Kodai hills. It is only 15-minute drive from the famous Meenakshi temple and city centre.
* Hotel Madurai Ashok
It is situated at a distance of 14 km from the airport and 4 km from the Madurai junction railway station. It provides facilities like restaurant, swimming pool, conference facilities, coffee shop etc.
Guesthouses
There are a number of guest houses in Madurai, which serve as a good option for staying. Here, you can avail both bed and breakfast for yourself, in reasonable price.
Hotels
There are a number of hotels in Madurai which can prove to be good accommodation options. Some of the good hotels in the city are:
* Best Western Germanus Hotel
It is a three-star business-class hotel and is located at a distance of 1 km from the railway station and the city bus stand and around 12 km from the airport.
* Hotel Sangam
It is located in the heart of the city and provides facilities like swimming pool, conference and banquet hall, restaurant, money exchange, travel agency, doctor on call, car rental, shopping arcade, etc.
* Hotel Taj Garden Retreat
This hotel is hundred years old and is located on the Pasumalai hill, at a distance of 15 km from the Madurai airport. The hotel provides a panoramic view of the Temple City and the Kodai hills. It is only 15-minute drive from the famous Meenakshi temple and city centre.
* Hotel Madurai Ashok
It is situated at a distance of 14 km from the airport and 4 km from the Madurai junction railway station. It provides facilities like restaurant, swimming pool, conference facilities, coffee shop etc.
Guesthouses
There are a number of guest houses in Madurai, which serve as a good option for staying. Here, you can avail both bed and breakfast for yourself, in reasonable price.
Hotel Sangam
Rating:
4 Star
Address:
Alagar Koil Road
Madurai-625 002
Tamil Nadu
Accessibility:
14 kms from Madurai Airport, 4 kms from Madurai Junction and 1.5 km from Main Bus Stand.
Locational Advantage:
Hotel Sangam is adjacent to Government Circuit House and is just 3 kms from famous Madurai Meenakshi Temple.
Hotel Description:
Hotel Sangam is one of the leading 4 Star hotels of Madurai. The hotel is adjacent to the Government Circuit House and is close to the famous Madurai Meenakshi Temple. The hotel provides the touch of modern day convenience and warm hospitality. Hotel Sangam is a perfect choice for the business and leisure travelers. It is a home away from home.
Accommodation at Hotel Sangam:
Hotel Sangam offers a total of 50 tastefully furnished rooms. The rooms are spacious and equipped with modern amenities.
Amenities & Services at Hotel Sangam:
24 hours Room Service, Swimming Pool, Safe Deposit, Car Rental, Money Changing, Shopping Arcade, Travel Desk, Cultural Programmes On Request, Doctor On Call, Secretarial Services, Business Centre, Spacious Parking Facility, An Amphi Theatre For Product Launches And Wedding Receptions, Village Theme Dinners On Request.
4 Star
Address:
Alagar Koil Road
Madurai-625 002
Tamil Nadu
Accessibility:
14 kms from Madurai Airport, 4 kms from Madurai Junction and 1.5 km from Main Bus Stand.
Locational Advantage:
Hotel Sangam is adjacent to Government Circuit House and is just 3 kms from famous Madurai Meenakshi Temple.
Hotel Description:
Hotel Sangam is one of the leading 4 Star hotels of Madurai. The hotel is adjacent to the Government Circuit House and is close to the famous Madurai Meenakshi Temple. The hotel provides the touch of modern day convenience and warm hospitality. Hotel Sangam is a perfect choice for the business and leisure travelers. It is a home away from home.
Accommodation at Hotel Sangam:
Hotel Sangam offers a total of 50 tastefully furnished rooms. The rooms are spacious and equipped with modern amenities.
Amenities & Services at Hotel Sangam:
24 hours Room Service, Swimming Pool, Safe Deposit, Car Rental, Money Changing, Shopping Arcade, Travel Desk, Cultural Programmes On Request, Doctor On Call, Secretarial Services, Business Centre, Spacious Parking Facility, An Amphi Theatre For Product Launches And Wedding Receptions, Village Theme Dinners On Request.
Shopping At Madurai
Though Madurai does not offer much to those who love to shop, but still shopping in Madurai can be adventurous. The city is famous for its textile industry since long. So, the best items to purchase here are readymade garments, fabrics and sarees. You will also find a number of tailors, along with the garment shops in the market. The city also has handicraft shops where people can buy some good art pieces for their house. The shopping places in Madurai are usually packed with people, especially during weekends and festivals.
You can enjoy the colorful shops and spend time bargaining for your favorite item. Since clothes are a specialty here, the most famous shopping items are cotton fabrics and Batik and Sungundi Sarees, providing a great deal of variety for the Indian woman wardrobe. The best market for cotton is the Prithu Mandapam. It is an old pillared hall inside the eastern entrance of Meenakshi temple. Here, you can buy good cotton and batiks, for which Madurai is famous. After shopping you can sit back and relax on the Pottramarai tank and feel the essence of the city.
For buying handicrafts, you can go to the Handicrafts Emporiums of Government situated here, which offer handicrafts from all over India. You can also visit the Government Poompuhar Handicrafts Shop, Cottage Arts Emporium and the Madurai Gallery. Here, you can get hand-woven silks and cottons, bell-metal lamps, bronze images, wood and stone carvings. Leading shopping areas of the Madurai city of Tamil Nadu are Chithirai, Avanimoola, Puthumandapam and Thevangu Chetty Choultry. You can also explore the following outlets for a nice shopping experience.
Fabrics & Sarees
* Hajeemoosa (East Chithirai Street)
* Kumaran Silks( Vengala Kadai Street )
* Rajmahal Silks (Vengala Kadai Street)
* Adams 88 & 89 (South Masi Street)
* Alankar Textiles -Sungudi Sarees (South Avani Moola )
* Ranee Sarees - Sungudi Sarees (South Masi Street)
* Selections (South Chithirai Street)
* Designs (Nethaji Road)
* Nellai Dresses (Vilakkudhun)
* Co-Optex Sales Emporium (West Chithirai Street)
* Khadi Emporium (Town Hall Road)
* Sri Krishna (West Tower Street)
* Benzers (Nethaji Road)
Handlooms
* Handloom House (East Veli Street)
* Co-Optex (West Tower Street)
* Co-Optex (South Chithirai Street)
Handicrafts
* Madurai Gallery Cottage Expo Crafts (North Chithirai Street)
* Cottage Industries Exposition Ltd (Nethaji Road,)
* Cottage Arts Emporium (North Chithirai Street)
* Poopahar Sales Emporium (East Avani Moola Street)
* Poopuhar Handicrafts (West Veli Street)
* Surabi Handicrafts (West Veli Street)
* Khadi Gramayog Bhavan (Town Hall Road)
* All India Hanidcrafts Emporium (Town Hall Road )
You can enjoy the colorful shops and spend time bargaining for your favorite item. Since clothes are a specialty here, the most famous shopping items are cotton fabrics and Batik and Sungundi Sarees, providing a great deal of variety for the Indian woman wardrobe. The best market for cotton is the Prithu Mandapam. It is an old pillared hall inside the eastern entrance of Meenakshi temple. Here, you can buy good cotton and batiks, for which Madurai is famous. After shopping you can sit back and relax on the Pottramarai tank and feel the essence of the city.
For buying handicrafts, you can go to the Handicrafts Emporiums of Government situated here, which offer handicrafts from all over India. You can also visit the Government Poompuhar Handicrafts Shop, Cottage Arts Emporium and the Madurai Gallery. Here, you can get hand-woven silks and cottons, bell-metal lamps, bronze images, wood and stone carvings. Leading shopping areas of the Madurai city of Tamil Nadu are Chithirai, Avanimoola, Puthumandapam and Thevangu Chetty Choultry. You can also explore the following outlets for a nice shopping experience.
Fabrics & Sarees
* Hajeemoosa (East Chithirai Street)
* Kumaran Silks( Vengala Kadai Street )
* Rajmahal Silks (Vengala Kadai Street)
* Adams 88 & 89 (South Masi Street)
* Alankar Textiles -Sungudi Sarees (South Avani Moola )
* Ranee Sarees - Sungudi Sarees (South Masi Street)
* Selections (South Chithirai Street)
* Designs (Nethaji Road)
* Nellai Dresses (Vilakkudhun)
* Co-Optex Sales Emporium (West Chithirai Street)
* Khadi Emporium (Town Hall Road)
* Sri Krishna (West Tower Street)
* Benzers (Nethaji Road)
Handlooms
* Handloom House (East Veli Street)
* Co-Optex (West Tower Street)
* Co-Optex (South Chithirai Street)
Handicrafts
* Madurai Gallery Cottage Expo Crafts (North Chithirai Street)
* Cottage Industries Exposition Ltd (Nethaji Road,)
* Cottage Arts Emporium (North Chithirai Street)
* Poopahar Sales Emporium (East Avani Moola Street)
* Poopuhar Handicrafts (West Veli Street)
* Surabi Handicrafts (West Veli Street)
* Khadi Gramayog Bhavan (Town Hall Road)
* All India Hanidcrafts Emporium (Town Hall Road )
God Marriage - Royal
The Royal couple brought up this child as their own and named her Tataatakai. An odd feature about the baby was that it had three breasts instead of two, and that a divine prophecy decreed that the third one would miraculously disappear, at the princess’s sight of her consort to be.
Tataatakai grew up to be a valorous queen; she was also known as Meenakshi, the one endowed with fish like eyes. Tataatakai embarked upon a DigVijaya or a tour of victory, across the length and breadth of the Indian subcontinent. In the course of her travels she came to Mount Kailash where she encountered Shiva; upon standing in front of Shiva her third breast disappeared and a valorous warrior princess transformed into a blushing bride.
Shiva directed Meenakshi to return to Madurai, and promised her that he would join her in eight days as her groom. Accordingly Meenakshi returned to Madurai, and at the appointed time, the divine wedding was celebrated with pomp and splendour. Maha Vishnu, believed to be the brother of Meenakshi is said to have given the bride away.
Legend has it that Meenakshi and Sundareswarar ruled over the city of Madurai for a long period of time. Sundareswarar also goes by the name Sundara Pandyan. Ugra Pandyan the son of the divine couple is believed to be none other than Subramanya.
The legend of Meenakshi Kalyanam brings together four of the six main streams in popular Hinduism i.e. the Saiva, Shakta, Vaishnava and Skanda faiths – and this grand culmination of faiths is still celebrated in great splendour today, in an enactment of Meenakshi Kalyanam each year, when images of Skanda and Vishnu are brought to the Madurai Meenakshi temple from Tirupparamkunram nearby. Also of significance is the grand procession of Kallazhagar towards Madurai from the Alagar Koyil temple in the outskirts of the city.
Tataatakai grew up to be a valorous queen; she was also known as Meenakshi, the one endowed with fish like eyes. Tataatakai embarked upon a DigVijaya or a tour of victory, across the length and breadth of the Indian subcontinent. In the course of her travels she came to Mount Kailash where she encountered Shiva; upon standing in front of Shiva her third breast disappeared and a valorous warrior princess transformed into a blushing bride.
Shiva directed Meenakshi to return to Madurai, and promised her that he would join her in eight days as her groom. Accordingly Meenakshi returned to Madurai, and at the appointed time, the divine wedding was celebrated with pomp and splendour. Maha Vishnu, believed to be the brother of Meenakshi is said to have given the bride away.
Legend has it that Meenakshi and Sundareswarar ruled over the city of Madurai for a long period of time. Sundareswarar also goes by the name Sundara Pandyan. Ugra Pandyan the son of the divine couple is believed to be none other than Subramanya.
The legend of Meenakshi Kalyanam brings together four of the six main streams in popular Hinduism i.e. the Saiva, Shakta, Vaishnava and Skanda faiths – and this grand culmination of faiths is still celebrated in great splendour today, in an enactment of Meenakshi Kalyanam each year, when images of Skanda and Vishnu are brought to the Madurai Meenakshi temple from Tirupparamkunram nearby. Also of significance is the grand procession of Kallazhagar towards Madurai from the Alagar Koyil temple in the outskirts of the city.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Madurai Symposium
Madurai is a place of great historical and cultural importance. Well known as a seat of learning since the Sangam periods dating back to 4th century B.C, it is famous for its cultural and scholarly pursuits. The city had an academy consisting of critics, poets and savants highly esteemed both by kings and commoners. It was in Madurai that three successful conferences of Tamil scholars called sangams flourished.
In keeping with this tradition, Madurai Symposium is envisioned to be a development arena, where all stakeholders of development-Community Institutions, Civil Societies, Government, NGOs, Financial Institutions and Academia converge at Madurai for the convention, conferences and carnival. Initiated as part of fiftieth year celebration of Ford Foundation, DHAN Foundation hosted two successful bi-annual Symposiums in 2003 and 2005. From this year, Madurai Symposium will be a common platform for the development stakeholders to come together to share and learn from each others experience and practices.
A host of development themes are being implemented for addressing poverty across the country. These interventions are promoted, nurtured and built around specific themes of these water and microfinance emerged as flagships of development interventions. In fact, globally, no other theme has dazzled and excited the development world as did / is being done by microfinance and water. Significant changes have been brought about in the lives of the poor. The local initiatives of communities are much pronounced in the development interventions and their achievements have been astounding. In setting and shaping the future agenda, it is paramount to promote better understanding and harmony among the contemporary development issues and identifying priorities for future.
National Symposium on development interventions in the country, will provide unique opportunity to highlight the seminal contributions of interventions with microfinance, water and other development themes besides significant achievements of women’s organisations, NGOs working in various contexts, rural, tribal, urban, coastal and desert, etc. The key mainstream stakeholders – banking institutions and various wings of the Government would also showcase their achievements. A series of conventions, conferences, seminars and rallies would mark the symposium.
Development film festival, business fairs and cultural shows, involving the traditional and modern performing arts, poster sessions and exhibition of crafts from various locations / groups from India would also form important part of the symposium.
In keeping with this tradition, Madurai Symposium is envisioned to be a development arena, where all stakeholders of development-Community Institutions, Civil Societies, Government, NGOs, Financial Institutions and Academia converge at Madurai for the convention, conferences and carnival. Initiated as part of fiftieth year celebration of Ford Foundation, DHAN Foundation hosted two successful bi-annual Symposiums in 2003 and 2005. From this year, Madurai Symposium will be a common platform for the development stakeholders to come together to share and learn from each others experience and practices.
A host of development themes are being implemented for addressing poverty across the country. These interventions are promoted, nurtured and built around specific themes of these water and microfinance emerged as flagships of development interventions. In fact, globally, no other theme has dazzled and excited the development world as did / is being done by microfinance and water. Significant changes have been brought about in the lives of the poor. The local initiatives of communities are much pronounced in the development interventions and their achievements have been astounding. In setting and shaping the future agenda, it is paramount to promote better understanding and harmony among the contemporary development issues and identifying priorities for future.
National Symposium on development interventions in the country, will provide unique opportunity to highlight the seminal contributions of interventions with microfinance, water and other development themes besides significant achievements of women’s organisations, NGOs working in various contexts, rural, tribal, urban, coastal and desert, etc. The key mainstream stakeholders – banking institutions and various wings of the Government would also showcase their achievements. A series of conventions, conferences, seminars and rallies would mark the symposium.
Development film festival, business fairs and cultural shows, involving the traditional and modern performing arts, poster sessions and exhibition of crafts from various locations / groups from India would also form important part of the symposium.
Hotel Madurai Residency
Madurai, the temple city is known for its hospitality and the only place where you can experience this is Hotel Madurai Residency. The ease of home and the effectiveness of office, all in one place where we make every effort to present you a room that is calm and hygienic, with a pleasant thoughtful service at a value conscious price.
Having won the hearts of many Indian and International guests, The Madurai Residency has earned a reputation providing the finest Quality of Hospitality in this region. Building upon this goodwill, the professionally qualified staff, educated in excellent hotel management and catering institutes in India and abroad are dedicated to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable.
Hotel Madurai Residency is perfectly located at the heart of the city very close to the Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple, Railway Junction, Periyar Bus Stand, the Madurai Bazaar and is just 12 kms away from the Madurai Airport.
Madurai is an ancient city, with its history dating back to 2,600 years. The Pandyan King Kulasekhara constructed this lotus shaped city around the Meenakshi temple on the banks of the river Vaigai.
Madurai had trade contacts with the Greeks and the Romans. Foreign travelers like Megasthenes, Pliny (77 AD), and Ptolemy (140 AD) have left a graphic account of the rule of the Pandyan Kings.
Madurai is known as the City of Festivals. Scholars and pious kings founded the first Tamil Academy here. The town has developed encircling the famous Meenakshi Temple, built in the Dravidian style, one for Shiva and the other for his spouse Meenakshi. It is believed that if you place a literary work in the tank of this temple, it will sink if it is worthless and float, it worthy.
This city was henceforth known as Madhurapuri. Madurai is famous for Jasmine flowers.
Mandapam:
The fully Air-conditioned Multicuisine Restaurant serves a display of buffet breakfast and delicious South Indian & Multicuisines for Lunch and Dinner. An ideal place for business chats along with a meal and a wonderful place for your family for an evening dinner. The Restaurant is open from 7 am to 11 pm.
MEGAM:
Be it a time with your loved ones or business friends, enjoy it under the moonlit sky at Madurai's highest Roof Top Restaurant with dinner and a sight of an amazing green city, which you cannot view from any where else. Serves a variety of delicious Indian, Chinese, Continental, Tandoori and Mughal Cuisines and is open from 7.30 pm to 11 pm.
MOHANAM:
A well sophisticated centrally air-conditioned bar tuned according to the harmony of your mind blowing expectations. Offers a wide range of Liquors and Cocktails and is a perfect atmosphere for a get-together of friends or an evening of pure relaxation. Open from 11 am to 11 pm.
The air-conditioned conference hall, well prepared with business oriented services makes it a perfect place for conducting your business meetings professionally. LCD Projectors, Facsimile, Xerox, Travel assistance and a host of other services are made available for business gatherings.
Extra person charge for Non A/c rooms is Rs.175/-
Airport pickup in Qualis (9Pax) A/c-Rs.575/- &
Non A/c-Rs.500/-
Dormitory free accommodation for Drivers.
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Culture Holidays
Madurai is one of south India's oldest cities and has been a centre of learning and pilgrimage for centuries. The Shree Meenakshi temple, in the heart of the old town, is a riotously baroque example of Dravidian architecture. The city is one huge non-stop bazaar, full ofshops, street markets, temples and restaurants. Excursions include Rameshwaram, a major pilgrimage centre, in South India;Kodaikanal, a popular hill station in the region; Tanjore, the ancient capital of the Chola kings and famous for metal, copper and bronze craft and the Kanya Kumari temple.
Meenakshi Temple
The temple is dedicated to Meenakshi, the consort of Lord Shiva. The original temple was built by Kulasekara Pandya, but the entire credit for making the temple as splendid as it is today goes to Tirumalai Nayak who brought back glory to this magnificent structure. Located at the heart of the city, the Meenakshi-Sundareshwar temple has long been the focus of both Indian and international tourist attraction as well as one of the most important places of Hindu pilgrimage. People of the city wake up to the chant of hymns at the temple, which is the very centre of their cultural and religious life.
Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam
This is a huge temple tank about 5 km east of the Meenakshi temple. The mandapam in the centre has an idol of Vigneshwara (Vinayaka). Discovered during excavation to build the Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal, the place was believed to be sanctified and was converted into a teppakulam (tank). This enormous temple tank is fed by water brought from the Vagai through an ingenious system of underground channels. It is the site of the temple's float festival.
Thirumalai Nayak Mahal
There is no other building in Madurai, which better illustrates the architectural style of the Nayaks. The palace of Tirumalai Nayak is about 1 km away from the temple. This Indo-Saracenic building was constructed in 1523 and was originally four times as large as it is today. This palace consisted mainly of two parts, namely Swargavilasa and Rangavilasa which house the royal residence, theatre, shrine, apartments, armoury, palanquin place, royal bandstand, quarters, pond and gardens. The most remarkable part of this palace is the dome of Swarga Vilasam, which lies beyond a huge courtyard and is a magnificent example of the engineering skill of its builders, rising as it does to a height of 20m without support of any kind.
Koodal Azhagar Temple
This ancient shrine has Vishnu in sitting, standing and reclining postures one above the other.
The Gandhi Museum
The Gandhi Memorial Museum is one of the distinct places to be visited in Madurai. This museum is one of the rare living memorials of "The Father of India" and has an elaborate historical account of India's struggle for independence.
Women's Craft Bazaar
WOMEN'S CRAFT BAZAAR - CELEBRATION OF CRAFTSWOMEN
Madurai, India
March 28, 2008 10:00AM to March 29, 2008 07:00PM
Hosted by MAriska Vanakaliyamma Ondrich-Vaithya
The event is organised by MA-Eco-spiritual Goddess Art (MAriska Vanakaliyamma Ondrich-Vaithya. M.Phil., Ph.D.scholar) in collaboration with Dr.P.V.Manoranjitham, reader, Mother Teresa Women’s Uinversity. R&E centre, Madurai. MAriska has joined the SWAN day project and organises a Women’s craft bazaar in Madurai. It is the aim to make craftswomen and their talents visible. The two day function will be a celebration of craftswomen whose talents are often not noticed, not valued and remain invisible. MA-Eco-spiritual Goddess art will also participate . 30 percent from each of her paintings are for her project – a home for homeless aged women with a Wild Herbal and Tree Garden, a school for village girls, an animal home, a sacred grove for the sacred immanent Mother-Goddesses – Earth and Nature Goddesses and a Nature centre for women only.
Madurai, India
March 28, 2008 10:00AM to March 29, 2008 07:00PM
Hosted by MAriska Vanakaliyamma Ondrich-Vaithya
The event is organised by MA-Eco-spiritual Goddess Art (MAriska Vanakaliyamma Ondrich-Vaithya. M.Phil., Ph.D.scholar) in collaboration with Dr.P.V.Manoranjitham, reader, Mother Teresa Women’s Uinversity. R&E centre, Madurai. MAriska has joined the SWAN day project and organises a Women’s craft bazaar in Madurai. It is the aim to make craftswomen and their talents visible. The two day function will be a celebration of craftswomen whose talents are often not noticed, not valued and remain invisible. MA-Eco-spiritual Goddess art will also participate . 30 percent from each of her paintings are for her project – a home for homeless aged women with a Wild Herbal and Tree Garden, a school for village girls, an animal home, a sacred grove for the sacred immanent Mother-Goddesses – Earth and Nature Goddesses and a Nature centre for women only.
Saturday, August 2, 2008
General Information
The temple towers are the beautiful features in any city. Sri Meenakshi amman temple tower is such a feature beautifying the artful Madurai City. There are several places that are worth seeing in this historically famous Madurai. To name a few ., Thirumalai Naicker Palace which is the oldest palace in India; the string of temples whereever you turn to see ; Sri Meenakshiamman Temple which is the biggest temple of South India ; the Vandiyur Teppakkulam with the central Mandapam which is one of the biggest tanks in South India ; Thirupparankundram, the first abode among the six "Padai Veedus" of Lord Muruga ; Palamudhir Solai, the last of the six Padai Veedus etc. We are proud to take you into the Website of our Madurai.
Madurai has several specialities among the series of World famous ancient cities. Similar to Athens of Greece, which had developed human culture on the banks of river, Madurai is also such a city on the banks of river Vaigai. Madurai city for more than two thousand years continuously has political history and literary history reflecting the culture of those times. Among the various ancient stone inscriptions that were found in India, the largest numbers were found only in Madurai and its surrounding places. In the entire history of the World, the Pandia Kings who ruled with Madurai as capital city get the distinction of having founded Tamil Sangams for enrichment of a Language.
Madurai has several specialities among the series of World famous ancient cities. Similar to Athens of Greece, which had developed human culture on the banks of river, Madurai is also such a city on the banks of river Vaigai. Madurai city for more than two thousand years continuously has political history and literary history reflecting the culture of those times. Among the various ancient stone inscriptions that were found in India, the largest numbers were found only in Madurai and its surrounding places. In the entire history of the World, the Pandia Kings who ruled with Madurai as capital city get the distinction of having founded Tamil Sangams for enrichment of a Language.
Monday, July 28, 2008
An Outlook of Madurai
Once the capital city of Pandyas, Madurai is today the second largest city in Tamil Nadu. It is famous for the Meenakshi Temple with its towering gopurams and rare sculptures. The city is said to have got its name from the drops of nectar (Mathuram) that fell from Shiva's locks when he came to bless its people for constructing a temple for him. Originally named Madhurapuri or the 'land of nectar', the name later got modified as Madurai.
Madurai lies on the banks of the river Vaigai. The temple and the old city are on the banks, while modern Madurai with its textile mills, engineering industries and large university sprawls around.
General Information
Area 22 sq. kms.
Population 1,093,702 (1991 census)
Altitude 101 meters above sea level
Climate
Max. Min.
Summer
37.1º c 25.0º c
Winter
29.0º c 20.0º c
Rainfall 85 cms average
Clothing Tropical
Season Throughout the year
Languages spoken Tamil, Sourashtra, English
STD Code 0452
Places of interest
Meenakshi Temple
Located at the heart of the city, the Meenakshi-Sundareswarar temple has long been the focus of both Indian and international tourist attraction as well as one of the most important places of Hindu pilgrimage. The temple is dedicated to both of Meenakshi of the limpid fish-shaped eyes, the lovely consort of Lord Siva: and to Lord Siva himself (Sundareswarar). For the people of Madurai, the temple is the very centre of their cultural and religious life.
Koodal Alagar Temple
This ancient shrine has Vishnu in sitting, standing and reclining postures one above the other. It has elegantly carved ornamental windows described as "miracles of the stone mason's art". There are also intricate wood carvings, including a panel of Lord Rama's Pattabhishekham (coronation).
Vandiyur Kanmoy Tourist Comlex
Located 6km from the Periyar bus stand, Vandiyur Kanmoy (Tank) is an ideal picnic spot . TTDC operates a Children's train and boating service. There is also a restuarant in the Tourist Complex.
Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam
This enormous temple tank is fed by the water brought from the Vaigai through an ingenious system of underground channels. The tank has a mandapam at the centre enshrining Lord Vigneshwara.
Gandhi Museum
The institution housed in a 300-year old palace is dedicated to Gandhiji and promotes study and appreciation of the Mahatma's teachings. There is picture gallery, personal memorabilia of the Mahatma, a library and an exhibition of South India handicrafts and village industries. The government Museum is also in this comlex.
Timings 10.00-13.00 hrs. and 14.00-17,30 hrs. Ph : 531060
Thirupparankunram
Located 8 Kms south of Madurai junction, the temple here is one of the six abodes of Lord Subramanya. Its innermost shrine is cut out of a solid rock.
Alagar Koil
Located 21 kms northwest of Madurai is a Vishnu Temple on a picturesque wooded hill. Here Vishnu presides as Meenakshi's brother "Azhagar'.
Excursions
Vaigai Dam (70kms)
This is famous picnic spot. Man-made gardens on one side of the dam contrast with the rugged terrain on the mountains. On sundays the dam is illuminated.
Kodaikkanal (120 kms.)
Kodai is a hill station 2130 m above sea level in the Western Ghats. Wooded hills, pleasant walks, picturesque waterfalls and a magnificent lake make Kodai one of the most beautiful hill stations in India. More Info
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (Thekkadi) (155 kms.)
The forests of this beautiful sanctuary slope down to a man-made lake. On motor launches from this lake , one can view wildlife in its natural habitat. Elephant, gaur, sambhar and even tigers which come to the lake.
Megamalai
Megamalai, 130kms from Madurai, lies 1500 m above sea level. One has to climb up from Chinnamanur side. There are many caradamon estates and tea plantations in the hills. Wild animals like Sambhar, Elephant, Tiger, Cheetah, Gaur and Spotted Deer are found amidst thick vegetation.
Vedanthangal (85 kms.)
Vedanthangal is one of the largest bird sancturies in India. It is a marshy, 30 hectare park with lake visited by over 1,00,000 migratory birds every year. The majority of these birds can be seen between November and February. The variety of birds include Herons, Darters, Spoonbills, Pelicans, Sandpipers, White Ibis, Cormorants,Blue winged teals and Swans. More Info
Suruli Falls
Suruli waterfalls lies 123 kms from Madurai on the way to Thekkadi via Uthamapalayam. The location of the falls, in a salubrious setting makes it a good picnic spot for domestic tourists.
Viraganur Dam
Viraganur Dam with a picturesque garden lies 8 km from Madurai adn far from Vandiyur Mariamman tank. This is a nice picnic spot.
Kumbakkarai Water Falls
It is 105 kms from Madurai and 6 kms from Periyakulam, Kumbakkarai water falls is an ideal picnic spot.
Festivals
Avanimoolom Festival August/September.
Float Festival January/February.
Madurai Chithirai Festival April/May
Govt. Chithirai Exhibition April/May.
Other Festivals
How to get there ?
Air
Madurai Airport is connected with Chennai, Bangalore and Tiruchirapalli.
Rail
Madurai is a major Railways Junction connected with important cities of Tamilnadu.
Road
It is connected with all important cities of South India.
Madurai lies on the banks of the river Vaigai. The temple and the old city are on the banks, while modern Madurai with its textile mills, engineering industries and large university sprawls around.
General Information
Area 22 sq. kms.
Population 1,093,702 (1991 census)
Altitude 101 meters above sea level
Climate
Max. Min.
Summer
37.1º c 25.0º c
Winter
29.0º c 20.0º c
Rainfall 85 cms average
Clothing Tropical
Season Throughout the year
Languages spoken Tamil, Sourashtra, English
STD Code 0452
Places of interest
Meenakshi Temple
Located at the heart of the city, the Meenakshi-Sundareswarar temple has long been the focus of both Indian and international tourist attraction as well as one of the most important places of Hindu pilgrimage. The temple is dedicated to both of Meenakshi of the limpid fish-shaped eyes, the lovely consort of Lord Siva: and to Lord Siva himself (Sundareswarar). For the people of Madurai, the temple is the very centre of their cultural and religious life.
Koodal Alagar Temple
This ancient shrine has Vishnu in sitting, standing and reclining postures one above the other. It has elegantly carved ornamental windows described as "miracles of the stone mason's art". There are also intricate wood carvings, including a panel of Lord Rama's Pattabhishekham (coronation).
Vandiyur Kanmoy Tourist Comlex
Located 6km from the Periyar bus stand, Vandiyur Kanmoy (Tank) is an ideal picnic spot . TTDC operates a Children's train and boating service. There is also a restuarant in the Tourist Complex.
Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam
This enormous temple tank is fed by the water brought from the Vaigai through an ingenious system of underground channels. The tank has a mandapam at the centre enshrining Lord Vigneshwara.
Gandhi Museum
The institution housed in a 300-year old palace is dedicated to Gandhiji and promotes study and appreciation of the Mahatma's teachings. There is picture gallery, personal memorabilia of the Mahatma, a library and an exhibition of South India handicrafts and village industries. The government Museum is also in this comlex.
Timings 10.00-13.00 hrs. and 14.00-17,30 hrs. Ph : 531060
Thirupparankunram
Located 8 Kms south of Madurai junction, the temple here is one of the six abodes of Lord Subramanya. Its innermost shrine is cut out of a solid rock.
Alagar Koil
Located 21 kms northwest of Madurai is a Vishnu Temple on a picturesque wooded hill. Here Vishnu presides as Meenakshi's brother "Azhagar'.
Excursions
Vaigai Dam (70kms)
This is famous picnic spot. Man-made gardens on one side of the dam contrast with the rugged terrain on the mountains. On sundays the dam is illuminated.
Kodaikkanal (120 kms.)
Kodai is a hill station 2130 m above sea level in the Western Ghats. Wooded hills, pleasant walks, picturesque waterfalls and a magnificent lake make Kodai one of the most beautiful hill stations in India. More Info
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (Thekkadi) (155 kms.)
The forests of this beautiful sanctuary slope down to a man-made lake. On motor launches from this lake , one can view wildlife in its natural habitat. Elephant, gaur, sambhar and even tigers which come to the lake.
Megamalai
Megamalai, 130kms from Madurai, lies 1500 m above sea level. One has to climb up from Chinnamanur side. There are many caradamon estates and tea plantations in the hills. Wild animals like Sambhar, Elephant, Tiger, Cheetah, Gaur and Spotted Deer are found amidst thick vegetation.
Vedanthangal (85 kms.)
Vedanthangal is one of the largest bird sancturies in India. It is a marshy, 30 hectare park with lake visited by over 1,00,000 migratory birds every year. The majority of these birds can be seen between November and February. The variety of birds include Herons, Darters, Spoonbills, Pelicans, Sandpipers, White Ibis, Cormorants,Blue winged teals and Swans. More Info
Suruli Falls
Suruli waterfalls lies 123 kms from Madurai on the way to Thekkadi via Uthamapalayam. The location of the falls, in a salubrious setting makes it a good picnic spot for domestic tourists.
Viraganur Dam
Viraganur Dam with a picturesque garden lies 8 km from Madurai adn far from Vandiyur Mariamman tank. This is a nice picnic spot.
Kumbakkarai Water Falls
It is 105 kms from Madurai and 6 kms from Periyakulam, Kumbakkarai water falls is an ideal picnic spot.
Festivals
Avanimoolom Festival August/September.
Float Festival January/February.
Madurai Chithirai Festival April/May
Govt. Chithirai Exhibition April/May.
Other Festivals
How to get there ?
Air
Madurai Airport is connected with Chennai, Bangalore and Tiruchirapalli.
Rail
Madurai is a major Railways Junction connected with important cities of Tamilnadu.
Road
It is connected with all important cities of South India.
Infrastructure of Madurai
Accessibiltiy :
Madurai is easily accessible from all parts of the country. Madurai is well- connected by Air, Rail and Road with major cities of India.
» Air - Madurai airport is 10 Kms from the city andis connected by air with Mumbai and Chennai.
» Rail - Madurai railway station has direct connections with Bangalore (385 Kms), Coimbatore (227 Kms), Cape Comorin(235 Kms), Chennai (444 Kms), Rameshwaram (152 Kms), Thanjavur (158 Kms) and Tiruchirappalli (142 Kms).
» Road - Madurai is connected with good motorableroads with all parts of South India.
The distance of important towns from Madurai are Bangalore (385 Kms),Chennai (444 Kms), Coimbatore (227 Kms), Cape Comorin (235 Kms), Kodaikanal(120 Kms), Periyar (160 Kms), Ooty (325 Kms), Rameshwaram (152 Kms), Tanjore(158 Kms), Trichy (142 Kms) and Trivandrum (264). From the city bus stands buses, taxis, auto rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are available to reach thetemple.
Accomodation :
The best place to stay are hotels across Madurai city.There are several hotels ranging from 5 star to budget hotel. The well equipped hotels offer a pleasant stay to guests. Famous hotels of Madurai are Taj Garden Retreat (5 Star), GRT Residency (3 Star), Hotel Germanus (3Star), Hotel Sangam (3 Star), Hotel International, Hotel Supreme and Hotel MR International etc.
Attractions :
»Meenakshi Temple
The world famous Meenakshi Temple is situated in Madurai, one of the oldest city of Tamil Nadu. The magnificent temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Meenakshi, is the perfect example of Dravidian architecture. The temple complex encircles the statues, which reflects the whole range of human emotions. The temple complex covers an area of 6 hectare and houses the structures date back to the 12th to the18th century. Originally the temple was built by Kulasekara Pandya, but the real credit for making the temple goes to the Nayaks. The Nayaks, who ruled over Madurai between the 16th to the 18th century, left a magnificent impression of their rule in the Meenakshi Temple.
» Mariamman Teppakulam - The tank is located at a distance of 5 km in the east of Meenakshi temple. It has an idol of Vinayakaor Vigneshwara stands on a plat form in the centre.
» Tirumalai Nayak Mahal - The palace of Tirumalai Nayak lies around 1 km from the Meenakshi temple. Built in 1523 the place is an example of Indo- Sarcenic buildings and also presents the architectural style of the Nayaks.
» The Gandhi Museum - The museum is located at the old palace of Rani Mangammal. The museum has a historical account of India's struggle for freedom.
» Thirupparankunram - Situated at a distance of 8 Kms, south of Madurai, the temple has Pandyan rock- cut shrines of the 8th century. A wide range of images of Hindu gods carved on the walls can be seen here.
Upgradation of Madurai airport
The project is expected to contribute to the development of industrial and marine-related activities in and around Tuticorin, attracting more business travel through the airport at Madurai.
It also pointed out to the efforts of Elcot to set up an IT park. Further, the rich culture and heritage of the city is bound to result in an increased tourist flow..
Madurai is easily accessible from all parts of the country. Madurai is well- connected by Air, Rail and Road with major cities of India.
» Air - Madurai airport is 10 Kms from the city andis connected by air with Mumbai and Chennai.
» Rail - Madurai railway station has direct connections with Bangalore (385 Kms), Coimbatore (227 Kms), Cape Comorin(235 Kms), Chennai (444 Kms), Rameshwaram (152 Kms), Thanjavur (158 Kms) and Tiruchirappalli (142 Kms).
» Road - Madurai is connected with good motorableroads with all parts of South India.
The distance of important towns from Madurai are Bangalore (385 Kms),Chennai (444 Kms), Coimbatore (227 Kms), Cape Comorin (235 Kms), Kodaikanal(120 Kms), Periyar (160 Kms), Ooty (325 Kms), Rameshwaram (152 Kms), Tanjore(158 Kms), Trichy (142 Kms) and Trivandrum (264). From the city bus stands buses, taxis, auto rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are available to reach thetemple.
Accomodation :
The best place to stay are hotels across Madurai city.There are several hotels ranging from 5 star to budget hotel. The well equipped hotels offer a pleasant stay to guests. Famous hotels of Madurai are Taj Garden Retreat (5 Star), GRT Residency (3 Star), Hotel Germanus (3Star), Hotel Sangam (3 Star), Hotel International, Hotel Supreme and Hotel MR International etc.
Attractions :
»Meenakshi Temple
The world famous Meenakshi Temple is situated in Madurai, one of the oldest city of Tamil Nadu. The magnificent temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Meenakshi, is the perfect example of Dravidian architecture. The temple complex encircles the statues, which reflects the whole range of human emotions. The temple complex covers an area of 6 hectare and houses the structures date back to the 12th to the18th century. Originally the temple was built by Kulasekara Pandya, but the real credit for making the temple goes to the Nayaks. The Nayaks, who ruled over Madurai between the 16th to the 18th century, left a magnificent impression of their rule in the Meenakshi Temple.
» Mariamman Teppakulam - The tank is located at a distance of 5 km in the east of Meenakshi temple. It has an idol of Vinayakaor Vigneshwara stands on a plat form in the centre.
» Tirumalai Nayak Mahal - The palace of Tirumalai Nayak lies around 1 km from the Meenakshi temple. Built in 1523 the place is an example of Indo- Sarcenic buildings and also presents the architectural style of the Nayaks.
» The Gandhi Museum - The museum is located at the old palace of Rani Mangammal. The museum has a historical account of India's struggle for freedom.
» Thirupparankunram - Situated at a distance of 8 Kms, south of Madurai, the temple has Pandyan rock- cut shrines of the 8th century. A wide range of images of Hindu gods carved on the walls can be seen here.
Upgradation of Madurai airport
The project is expected to contribute to the development of industrial and marine-related activities in and around Tuticorin, attracting more business travel through the airport at Madurai.
It also pointed out to the efforts of Elcot to set up an IT park. Further, the rich culture and heritage of the city is bound to result in an increased tourist flow..
India & Information Technology Industry
According to a NASSCOM-McKinsey report, annual revenue projections for India’s IT industry in 2008 are US $ 87 billion and market openings are emerging across four broad sectors, IT services, software products, IT enabled services, and e-businesses thus creating a number of opportunities for Indian companies. In addition to the export market, all of these segments have a domestic market component as well.
Foreign Companies & India
The door is wide open: Foreign private-equity investments in Indian companies doubled to $2.2 billion in 2005 from the previous year, then increased in the first nine months of 2006 to $5.4 billion, according to industry newsletter Venture Intelligence.
Foreign Companies & India
The door is wide open: Foreign private-equity investments in Indian companies doubled to $2.2 billion in 2005 from the previous year, then increased in the first nine months of 2006 to $5.4 billion, according to industry newsletter Venture Intelligence.
Next City in India for IT Industries
The Madurai district administration has identified two sites, one near the Madurai Kamaraj University at Nagamalai Pudukottai and the other on the city outskirts, for setting up the much-awaited IT Park. The Government has transferred 8.81 hectares at Ilandhaikulam and 16.02 hectares at Kinnimangalam (near Madurai Kamaraj University) to ELCOT. The Madurai Corporation has identified 29.93 acres of land for establishing the Tidel park in the city. The Tidel park will be an Elcot undertaking. NASSCOM, CII and MADITSSIA have joined hands to conduct the "Madurai.com", a move to showcause Madurai as an ideal IT destination. The government run STPI has plans to open its Madurai centre in the year 2007.
Madurai Hotels
The Madurai Residency, Madurai Rs. 960
The Madurai Residency, Madurai Hotel A popular hotel with corporate and business travellers, The Madurai Residency has 74 elegantly appointed rooms fitted with all possible amenities. It also has a choice of restaurants that serve South Indian and other delicacies. more...
Hotel Germanus, Madurai Rs. 2000
Hotel Germanus, Madurai Hotel One of the most-renowned hotels in Madurai, Hotel Germanus is a well-appointed city centre hotel. Its choice of 81 well-maintained rooms, restaurant and business facilities make it a popular choice with business and leisure travellers. more...
Hotel Supreme, Madurai Rs. 677
Hotel Supreme, Madurai Hotel A well-known hotel in Madurai, Hotel Supreme has 69 well-appointed and finely decorated rooms. The hotel has a multi-cuisine restaurant and several other facilities for a comfortable stay. more...
Hotel Park Plaza, Madurai Rs. 1,351
Hotel Park Plaza, Madurai Hotel Located close to the commercial region of Madurai, Hotel Park Plaza has 55 well-appointed rooms which are fully-furnished. Enjoy a session of fine dining at the restaurants. The hotel also has its own travel desk to help you arrange sightseeing tours. more...
The Madurai Residency, Madurai Hotel A popular hotel with corporate and business travellers, The Madurai Residency has 74 elegantly appointed rooms fitted with all possible amenities. It also has a choice of restaurants that serve South Indian and other delicacies. more...
Hotel Germanus, Madurai Rs. 2000
Hotel Germanus, Madurai Hotel One of the most-renowned hotels in Madurai, Hotel Germanus is a well-appointed city centre hotel. Its choice of 81 well-maintained rooms, restaurant and business facilities make it a popular choice with business and leisure travellers. more...
Hotel Supreme, Madurai Rs. 677
Hotel Supreme, Madurai Hotel A well-known hotel in Madurai, Hotel Supreme has 69 well-appointed and finely decorated rooms. The hotel has a multi-cuisine restaurant and several other facilities for a comfortable stay. more...
Hotel Park Plaza, Madurai Rs. 1,351
Hotel Park Plaza, Madurai Hotel Located close to the commercial region of Madurai, Hotel Park Plaza has 55 well-appointed rooms which are fully-furnished. Enjoy a session of fine dining at the restaurants. The hotel also has its own travel desk to help you arrange sightseeing tours. more...
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Madurai Real Estate
Sell Land in madurai / Buy Land for sale in Madurai ?
Madurai Real estate market is picking up. Especially after Tamil Nadu state Government announcement of installing the Tidel Park and Software City in suburbs. Madurai Corporation also revaluated the land price around Madurai. 100 Sqft now sells around 5-9 lakh around Meenakshi amman temple. Arrival of Alukkas Jewelry hiked the shopping place lands around Madurai Meenakshi amman temple. They bought 100 square feet for 22 Laksh on West Veli street.
Tidel Park:
There 1 cents sells nearly Rs 70,000 - 100,000. As per my knowledge no bulk land is available now. No one wish to sell at this moment as the land price and demands goes up every month. Most of the politician bought the lands, especially Mr. Alagiri (Tamil Nadu Chief Minister son) bought more than 112 acres land around that place. Mr. Baluchamy Arumugam(one of the associate of Madurai Real Estate) has some good contacts around that place as he was working there as Tamil Nadu government Village union Development Manager (Block Development officer or simply BDO). The foundation of Tidel Park has been done 2 months ago and I can see the Construction companies like PNC moving big machineries and setting up the local offices. The project will be completed within 3 years. Valayangulam.
As I have informed, whenever there is a news about proposed Tidel Park and IT Park in madurai the real estate rates are getting doubled. Local Brokers and Land Oweners are the reason behind land value hype in madurai. There is an news about project starting soon in both Madurai Tidel Park and IT Park in Dinamalar News Paper. Beleive me or not next day the land price has increased 10,000 - 20,000 per cents at Ilanthaikulam Tidel Park sorrounding and Vadapalanchi IT Park (software City Park). Given below the news cutting for your view.
Madurai IT Park
At vadapazhanchi 230 KV power plant has been planned to setup, so it can serve the power needed by IT companies. The water supply has been planned from Vaigai Dam and earthing the giant pipes are on the way. As per relied source the Elcot already paid the advance. For convenient, New railway station request has been submitted to Southern Railway Central on Madurai - Podi Train Track exclusively for Madurai IT Park.
As the IT Park is being constructed on Madurai - Cochin Highway new flyover road bridge may take place to connect the Madurai - Theni road and Madurai - Cochin Road. As per reliable source the Elcot already deposited money for that construction. HCL, Honeywell , Desolve and many more IT companies already bought land in that place.
After completion of IT Park and Tidel park project madurai will be the hub for new job openings and bring prosper to south Tamil nadu.
Madurai Real estate market is picking up. Especially after Tamil Nadu state Government announcement of installing the Tidel Park and Software City in suburbs. Madurai Corporation also revaluated the land price around Madurai. 100 Sqft now sells around 5-9 lakh around Meenakshi amman temple. Arrival of Alukkas Jewelry hiked the shopping place lands around Madurai Meenakshi amman temple. They bought 100 square feet for 22 Laksh on West Veli street.
Tidel Park:
There 1 cents sells nearly Rs 70,000 - 100,000. As per my knowledge no bulk land is available now. No one wish to sell at this moment as the land price and demands goes up every month. Most of the politician bought the lands, especially Mr. Alagiri (Tamil Nadu Chief Minister son) bought more than 112 acres land around that place. Mr. Baluchamy Arumugam(one of the associate of Madurai Real Estate) has some good contacts around that place as he was working there as Tamil Nadu government Village union Development Manager (Block Development officer or simply BDO). The foundation of Tidel Park has been done 2 months ago and I can see the Construction companies like PNC moving big machineries and setting up the local offices. The project will be completed within 3 years. Valayangulam.
As I have informed, whenever there is a news about proposed Tidel Park and IT Park in madurai the real estate rates are getting doubled. Local Brokers and Land Oweners are the reason behind land value hype in madurai. There is an news about project starting soon in both Madurai Tidel Park and IT Park in Dinamalar News Paper. Beleive me or not next day the land price has increased 10,000 - 20,000 per cents at Ilanthaikulam Tidel Park sorrounding and Vadapalanchi IT Park (software City Park). Given below the news cutting for your view.
Madurai IT Park
At vadapazhanchi 230 KV power plant has been planned to setup, so it can serve the power needed by IT companies. The water supply has been planned from Vaigai Dam and earthing the giant pipes are on the way. As per relied source the Elcot already paid the advance. For convenient, New railway station request has been submitted to Southern Railway Central on Madurai - Podi Train Track exclusively for Madurai IT Park.
As the IT Park is being constructed on Madurai - Cochin Highway new flyover road bridge may take place to connect the Madurai - Theni road and Madurai - Cochin Road. As per reliable source the Elcot already deposited money for that construction. HCL, Honeywell , Desolve and many more IT companies already bought land in that place.
After completion of IT Park and Tidel park project madurai will be the hub for new job openings and bring prosper to south Tamil nadu.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Tirupparankundram
Tirupparankundram, a hill five miles southwest of Madurai, is the fourth pilgrimage site of Muruga. A cave temple dedicated to the element of earth and mentioned in various classical Tamil texts as the 'Southern Himalaya' where the gods assemble, Tirupparankunram is also mentioned in legend as 'the place where the sun and moon abide'. Murugan was married to Devasena upon the hill and for many centuries the Tamil people have considered it the most auspicious place for their own marriages, especially during the time of the Pankuni Uttiram, the festival of marriage held in late March. Besides the fantastic temple to Murugan on the hill, there is also a Muslim shrine dedicated to 'Sekunder' (al-Sikandar or Alexander the Great) who is associated with Murukan by the Muslim pilgrims. "Sikandar was a friend of Murugan at the time when Murugan was King here," they say.
Tirupparankundram is situated three miles southeast of Madurai on the main railway line. It is one of the Aru Padai Veedugal or six sacred places selected by Lord Subrahmanya for his abode. The importance of this temple is that here was celebrated the marriage of Lord Subrahmanya with the daughter of Indra, Devayanai.
Long, long ago, when Lord Subrahmanya was staying at Kanda Verpu, the two daughters of Lord Maha Vishnu, Amrita Valli and Sundara Valli, cherished the desire of becoming the consorts of Subrahmanya. With this aim in mind they both went to Saravana Poigai and commenced austere penance to fulfil their desires.
Pleased with their prayer and worship, Lord Subrahmanya appeared before them and told Amrita Valli, "You will be brought up by Indra as his daughter and I shall marry you in due course." Her younger sister Sundara Valli was also graced with a similar blessing. She was born to sage Sivamuni and brought up by Nambi, the headman of Veddas.
Amrita Valli took the form of a female child and went to Mount Meru, the abode of Indra, and told him, "I am the daughter of Maha Vishnu and the responsibility of looking after me has been entrusted to you." On hearing this, Indra became very happy and directed Airavatam, his white elephant, to take care of the child.
The elephant with all love brought her up and affection and she attained the age of marriage in course of time. Hence she came to be known as Devayanai, one who was brought up by the heavenly elephant of Indra (yānai in Tamil means elephant).
The six sons of sage Parasara were cursed to become fishes in the Saravana Poigai. On request for redemption, these six boys were ordered to pray to Lord Subrahmanya.
When they got his darshan, they could get redemption. It was also made known to them that Lord Subrahmanya would come to Tirupparankunram after vanquishing the demon Surapadma. Anxiously they waited for the arrival of Subrahmanya.
When the mission of Subrahmanva to vanquish Surapadma was over at Tiruchendur, on his way, he came to this spot followed by all the devas and heavenly beings whom he had released from the untold miseries caused by Surapadma.
On his arrival at Tirupparankunram, the sons of Parasara received Subrahmanya and, at their request, he consented to stay there. He at once ordered Viswakarma to construct a beautiful abode for himself, for the devas and for others.
He also suggested to the heavenly architect to build roads and erect a city around them. Indra, the king of the angels, desired to get his daughter Devayanai married to Subrahmanya, as a mark of his gratitude for relieving him and the devas from the depredations of the demon Surapadma.
He expressed his desire to Brahma and Vishnu who were present there. They were only too glad to hear the proposal. When they communicated the desire of Indra to Lord Subrahmanya he readily agreed to it and said: "Devayanai has been praying at Saravana Poigai in the Himalayas for this happy marriage. Now the time has come for its being solemnised." As Subrahmanya agreed to this marriage, Indra sent a messenger to bring his wife Indrani and daughter Devayanai from Mout Meru.
The marriage took place at Tirupparankunram, after the victory of Subrahmanya over Surapadma. All arrangements for marriage were made and the marriage was performed at the Tirupparankunram Temple. All the devas, Siva and Parvati attended the marriage and blessed Subrahmanya and Devayanai. Since then, the temple has become a very famous abode of Subrahmanya.
Tirupparankundram is situated three miles southeast of Madurai on the main railway line. It is one of the Aru Padai Veedugal or six sacred places selected by Lord Subrahmanya for his abode. The importance of this temple is that here was celebrated the marriage of Lord Subrahmanya with the daughter of Indra, Devayanai.
Long, long ago, when Lord Subrahmanya was staying at Kanda Verpu, the two daughters of Lord Maha Vishnu, Amrita Valli and Sundara Valli, cherished the desire of becoming the consorts of Subrahmanya. With this aim in mind they both went to Saravana Poigai and commenced austere penance to fulfil their desires.
Pleased with their prayer and worship, Lord Subrahmanya appeared before them and told Amrita Valli, "You will be brought up by Indra as his daughter and I shall marry you in due course." Her younger sister Sundara Valli was also graced with a similar blessing. She was born to sage Sivamuni and brought up by Nambi, the headman of Veddas.
Amrita Valli took the form of a female child and went to Mount Meru, the abode of Indra, and told him, "I am the daughter of Maha Vishnu and the responsibility of looking after me has been entrusted to you." On hearing this, Indra became very happy and directed Airavatam, his white elephant, to take care of the child.
The elephant with all love brought her up and affection and she attained the age of marriage in course of time. Hence she came to be known as Devayanai, one who was brought up by the heavenly elephant of Indra (yānai in Tamil means elephant).
The six sons of sage Parasara were cursed to become fishes in the Saravana Poigai. On request for redemption, these six boys were ordered to pray to Lord Subrahmanya.
When they got his darshan, they could get redemption. It was also made known to them that Lord Subrahmanya would come to Tirupparankunram after vanquishing the demon Surapadma. Anxiously they waited for the arrival of Subrahmanya.
When the mission of Subrahmanva to vanquish Surapadma was over at Tiruchendur, on his way, he came to this spot followed by all the devas and heavenly beings whom he had released from the untold miseries caused by Surapadma.
On his arrival at Tirupparankunram, the sons of Parasara received Subrahmanya and, at their request, he consented to stay there. He at once ordered Viswakarma to construct a beautiful abode for himself, for the devas and for others.
He also suggested to the heavenly architect to build roads and erect a city around them. Indra, the king of the angels, desired to get his daughter Devayanai married to Subrahmanya, as a mark of his gratitude for relieving him and the devas from the depredations of the demon Surapadma.
He expressed his desire to Brahma and Vishnu who were present there. They were only too glad to hear the proposal. When they communicated the desire of Indra to Lord Subrahmanya he readily agreed to it and said: "Devayanai has been praying at Saravana Poigai in the Himalayas for this happy marriage. Now the time has come for its being solemnised." As Subrahmanya agreed to this marriage, Indra sent a messenger to bring his wife Indrani and daughter Devayanai from Mout Meru.
The marriage took place at Tirupparankunram, after the victory of Subrahmanya over Surapadma. All arrangements for marriage were made and the marriage was performed at the Tirupparankunram Temple. All the devas, Siva and Parvati attended the marriage and blessed Subrahmanya and Devayanai. Since then, the temple has become a very famous abode of Subrahmanya.
Courtallam In and Around
Courtallam is located at a height of about 167m in the chain of Western Ghats. It is one of the most prominent tourist spots noted for waterfalls in Tirunelveli District. In Tamil Literature, Courtallam is cited in various names such as Pithur Kanda Theerthapuram, Mukthiveli, Thirunagaram, Nannagaram & Vasanthaperur. 'Kutralakkuravanji' in Purananooru speaks of the beauties and specialities of this town.
Water Falls
There are about 9 falls in Courtallam which include Main Falls, Five Falls, Old Falls, Tiger Falls, Sittraruvi, Shenbaga Devi Falls, Honey Falls, Orchid Falls and Palaruvi. These falls receive water from the river Chittar. Since this river runs via thick woods of rare herbal flora before falling here, the water is said to have medicinal qualities and cure some diseases. Taking a bath in these waterfalls will rejuvenate our mind and body.
Main Falls(Peraruvi) - Among the nine waterfalls, only the Main Falls is in Courtallam falling from a height of about 60 m. Here the water pours down at varying velocities and forces as per the amount of rainfall in the Western Ghats.
Five Falls(Aintharuvi) - It is the most preferred falls by many people which separates into 5 branches as it reaches the ground. It’s about 4 kms away from Courtallam.
Old Falls(Pazhaya Courtallam) - This falls is about 6 kms away from Courtallam and is ideal for anyone to enjoy.
Honey Falls(Thenaruvi) - The name comes as honey can be obtained from this place. The falls is amidst the jungle up in the mountains. It can be reached only by walk and is risky. It takes almost 2 hrs to reach this spot and people are not allowed to bath here as it is very dangerous.
Shenbaga Devi Falls - This falls is on the way to the Honey Falls. The location is surrounded by Shenbaga trees which bears the fragrant Shenbaga flowers. Near this waterfalls is the Shenbaga Devi temple. People usually take bath here and worship the Goddess in the temple. It’s about 3 km from Courtallam up the hills.
Tiger Falls(Puliyaruvi) - It is situated about 2 kms from the Courtallam bus stand. The flow of water is smooth here and is perfect for children to enjoy waterfalls.
Little Falls(Sittraruvi) - This falls located is near the Main Falls and we have to pay to take a bath here.
Thirukutralanathar Temple
This temple is situated amidst mountains and is close to the Peraruvi(Main Falls). The deity here is Lord Shiva in the name “Thirukutralanathar” and the Goddess is “Kuzhalal VaiMozhi”. This temple has got its name in Devaram and legends say that the great sage Agasthiyar has worshipped here. The Isthala virutcham of this temple is the Jack Tree.
According to puranas, Lord Nataraja is said to have presented his dance in five Sabhas. One among them is in Courtallam and it is the Chitra Sabhai. Chitra Sabha is near the Kutralanathar temple and it exhibits various paintings of deities and puranas. This sabha is built using herbs.
Papanasam
Papanasam, a village surrounded by ghats is situated at a distance of about 45 kms from Tirunelveli and can be reached easily from Courtallam. There is a dam in Papanasam and hydroelectricity is generated here.
The river Thamiraparani (noted for its sweet water) before reaching the plains splits into many branches as falls. One among them is the Agasthiyar Falls in Papanasam which falls from a height of about 100m. People are not allowed to visit this falls after dusk because wild beasts around the jungles come here to drink water. Tourists could see a kind of langur here which can be found only in this part of Western Ghats. Other rare species of birds can also be cited here.
There is a Siva temple in Papanasam worshipped by sage Agasthiyar. The deity here is known by the name ‘Papa Vinasar’ meaning one who removes our sins. People have a faith that their sins will be removed if they take a bath in Agasthiyar Falls and worship Lord Papavinasar. A huge mass of people gather here everyyear on the full moon day of the Tamil month Chittirai.
Other places
The other temples that can be visited in Courtallam are Koothar Kovil, Courtalla Nangai Kovil and Thirugnana Sambandar Kovil.
Water Falls
There are about 9 falls in Courtallam which include Main Falls, Five Falls, Old Falls, Tiger Falls, Sittraruvi, Shenbaga Devi Falls, Honey Falls, Orchid Falls and Palaruvi. These falls receive water from the river Chittar. Since this river runs via thick woods of rare herbal flora before falling here, the water is said to have medicinal qualities and cure some diseases. Taking a bath in these waterfalls will rejuvenate our mind and body.
Main Falls(Peraruvi) - Among the nine waterfalls, only the Main Falls is in Courtallam falling from a height of about 60 m. Here the water pours down at varying velocities and forces as per the amount of rainfall in the Western Ghats.
Five Falls(Aintharuvi) - It is the most preferred falls by many people which separates into 5 branches as it reaches the ground. It’s about 4 kms away from Courtallam.
Old Falls(Pazhaya Courtallam) - This falls is about 6 kms away from Courtallam and is ideal for anyone to enjoy.
Honey Falls(Thenaruvi) - The name comes as honey can be obtained from this place. The falls is amidst the jungle up in the mountains. It can be reached only by walk and is risky. It takes almost 2 hrs to reach this spot and people are not allowed to bath here as it is very dangerous.
Shenbaga Devi Falls - This falls is on the way to the Honey Falls. The location is surrounded by Shenbaga trees which bears the fragrant Shenbaga flowers. Near this waterfalls is the Shenbaga Devi temple. People usually take bath here and worship the Goddess in the temple. It’s about 3 km from Courtallam up the hills.
Tiger Falls(Puliyaruvi) - It is situated about 2 kms from the Courtallam bus stand. The flow of water is smooth here and is perfect for children to enjoy waterfalls.
Little Falls(Sittraruvi) - This falls located is near the Main Falls and we have to pay to take a bath here.
Thirukutralanathar Temple
This temple is situated amidst mountains and is close to the Peraruvi(Main Falls). The deity here is Lord Shiva in the name “Thirukutralanathar” and the Goddess is “Kuzhalal VaiMozhi”. This temple has got its name in Devaram and legends say that the great sage Agasthiyar has worshipped here. The Isthala virutcham of this temple is the Jack Tree.
According to puranas, Lord Nataraja is said to have presented his dance in five Sabhas. One among them is in Courtallam and it is the Chitra Sabhai. Chitra Sabha is near the Kutralanathar temple and it exhibits various paintings of deities and puranas. This sabha is built using herbs.
Papanasam
Papanasam, a village surrounded by ghats is situated at a distance of about 45 kms from Tirunelveli and can be reached easily from Courtallam. There is a dam in Papanasam and hydroelectricity is generated here.
The river Thamiraparani (noted for its sweet water) before reaching the plains splits into many branches as falls. One among them is the Agasthiyar Falls in Papanasam which falls from a height of about 100m. People are not allowed to visit this falls after dusk because wild beasts around the jungles come here to drink water. Tourists could see a kind of langur here which can be found only in this part of Western Ghats. Other rare species of birds can also be cited here.
There is a Siva temple in Papanasam worshipped by sage Agasthiyar. The deity here is known by the name ‘Papa Vinasar’ meaning one who removes our sins. People have a faith that their sins will be removed if they take a bath in Agasthiyar Falls and worship Lord Papavinasar. A huge mass of people gather here everyyear on the full moon day of the Tamil month Chittirai.
Other places
The other temples that can be visited in Courtallam are Koothar Kovil, Courtalla Nangai Kovil and Thirugnana Sambandar Kovil.
How to become a Best Kisser
I’ve had my fair share of kisses over the years. Some, I admit, were horrible, and included things like braces, corn-chip breath, and games of tonsil hockey. But there have been some pretty sweep-me-off-my-feet kisses too, like: kissing under a sky illuminated with fireworks, a grown-up-game of spin-the-bottle (please land on green eyes—yes!), and scandalous kisses that never should have happened but felt so good. It’s no wonder, of course, that my girlfriends and I want more of the latter than the former. So listen up, guys, for some advice. Here, eight women kiss and tell…
Make sure she’s willing
“First off, does the date merit a kiss? Am I engaged in conversation with you? Am I smiling? If things seem like a go, a first kiss should be very soft. Please, no tongue! Just kiss my lips with yours. Nip at my bottom lip—just slightly tug it. Don’t be like my last first date, who licked my teeth and got my hair caught in his college ring (come to think of it—never wear a college ring on a date).”
—Alexis Derano, editorial assistant
Brush up
“I think hygiene is key. Before you attempt to kiss me ask yourself: Does your breath smell like pepperoni pizza? I don’t care if we just dined in garlic heaven—a pack of gum or tin of Altoids cost around a buck. Both fit in your pocket. Puh-lease, have fresh breath. I keep Tic-Tacs on me at all times (hint, hint)! If we go back to your place to cuddle and watch a DVD, there is nothing sexier than a guy that excuses himself to the bathroom and emerges smelling like Crest. I once kissed a guy that tasted like tuna fish. We did not go on another date.”
—Donna Tice, accessories buyer
Ration the love
“A little goes a long way, boys! A little lip, a little tongue, a little caressing of my cheekbone. For starters, give me a quick, sexy sweep. Then retreat—do not shove your tongue into my mouth. What I want now are your lips. I want long, solid smooches. Next, pull away and hold the back of my head in your palm. Look into my eyes. I’ll reciprocate—trust me.”
—Kristina Katsulous, account executive
Sneak a peck
“When just getting to know a guy, I like it when he goes in but doesn’t make it to my lips and rather dots my cheek and lip with a long, sweet, I-know-I-like-you peck. Then he pulls away and I likely blush, which is a good sign. On our next formal date, I expect full lip-on-lip contact.”
—Tina Jackson, student
Kiss me in the theater
“Take me to the movies and kiss me (just sweet pecks) at really touching moments, like when the main guy and gal realize they’re meant to be or the puppy gets saved from a burning building. It shows me you’re sensitive and totally tuned into my girly feelings. I’ll kiss you when your team scores a basket—promise.”
—Rachelle King, sales associate
Watch the hands
“Do not take my hands and put them in inappropriate places on your body while we are sharing a kiss. If I like you, my hands will be caressing your brow or tucked under your collar. And I love it if your hands are resting on my hips, holding the back of my head, sweeping my cheek with a soft, open palm, or holding my hands (personal favorite). It ruins a kiss if you take your hands and go rushing to different places. If I like you… we’ll get there.
—Willow Roberts, photographer
Sweep her off her feet—literally
“This is a little cheesy, but I love Hollywood kisses. Completely, over-the-top, theatrical kisses. Hold me, dip me, kiss me. It shows me you love to have fun (like me), and it’s so romantic. Hollywood kisses are also a great distraction from petty arguments, by the way.”
—Laura Gowzen, personal trainer
Just do it!
“My best advice is so simple: Go for it. If you get that urge, and I don’t seem that into it, who cares? Maybe I’m just zoned out for some reason, or maybe I am into you and you just aren’t picking up on my very subtle vibes. I’ve been sneak-attacked a lot with a kiss, and nine times out of ten, it turns me on!”
—Jaz Valte, publicist
Make sure she’s willing
“First off, does the date merit a kiss? Am I engaged in conversation with you? Am I smiling? If things seem like a go, a first kiss should be very soft. Please, no tongue! Just kiss my lips with yours. Nip at my bottom lip—just slightly tug it. Don’t be like my last first date, who licked my teeth and got my hair caught in his college ring (come to think of it—never wear a college ring on a date).”
—Alexis Derano, editorial assistant
Brush up
“I think hygiene is key. Before you attempt to kiss me ask yourself: Does your breath smell like pepperoni pizza? I don’t care if we just dined in garlic heaven—a pack of gum or tin of Altoids cost around a buck. Both fit in your pocket. Puh-lease, have fresh breath. I keep Tic-Tacs on me at all times (hint, hint)! If we go back to your place to cuddle and watch a DVD, there is nothing sexier than a guy that excuses himself to the bathroom and emerges smelling like Crest. I once kissed a guy that tasted like tuna fish. We did not go on another date.”
—Donna Tice, accessories buyer
Ration the love
“A little goes a long way, boys! A little lip, a little tongue, a little caressing of my cheekbone. For starters, give me a quick, sexy sweep. Then retreat—do not shove your tongue into my mouth. What I want now are your lips. I want long, solid smooches. Next, pull away and hold the back of my head in your palm. Look into my eyes. I’ll reciprocate—trust me.”
—Kristina Katsulous, account executive
Sneak a peck
“When just getting to know a guy, I like it when he goes in but doesn’t make it to my lips and rather dots my cheek and lip with a long, sweet, I-know-I-like-you peck. Then he pulls away and I likely blush, which is a good sign. On our next formal date, I expect full lip-on-lip contact.”
—Tina Jackson, student
Kiss me in the theater
“Take me to the movies and kiss me (just sweet pecks) at really touching moments, like when the main guy and gal realize they’re meant to be or the puppy gets saved from a burning building. It shows me you’re sensitive and totally tuned into my girly feelings. I’ll kiss you when your team scores a basket—promise.”
—Rachelle King, sales associate
Watch the hands
“Do not take my hands and put them in inappropriate places on your body while we are sharing a kiss. If I like you, my hands will be caressing your brow or tucked under your collar. And I love it if your hands are resting on my hips, holding the back of my head, sweeping my cheek with a soft, open palm, or holding my hands (personal favorite). It ruins a kiss if you take your hands and go rushing to different places. If I like you… we’ll get there.
—Willow Roberts, photographer
Sweep her off her feet—literally
“This is a little cheesy, but I love Hollywood kisses. Completely, over-the-top, theatrical kisses. Hold me, dip me, kiss me. It shows me you love to have fun (like me), and it’s so romantic. Hollywood kisses are also a great distraction from petty arguments, by the way.”
—Laura Gowzen, personal trainer
Just do it!
“My best advice is so simple: Go for it. If you get that urge, and I don’t seem that into it, who cares? Maybe I’m just zoned out for some reason, or maybe I am into you and you just aren’t picking up on my very subtle vibes. I’ve been sneak-attacked a lot with a kiss, and nine times out of ten, it turns me on!”
—Jaz Valte, publicist
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Palani Hills
Located at a distance of 122 km from Madurai, Palani Hills are of great religious importance for Hindus. The major attraction of the hills is a temple, dedicated to Lord Subramanya. The temple is situated on top of a hill, reached by a flight of 659 steps. It is one of the six abodes of Lord Muruga and devotees from across the country visit the place in huge numbers. There is an interesting legend about how the place came to be called as Palani. The story revolves around Narada Muni, a sage who visited the court of Lord Shiva and Parvati.
He brought a golden mango, known as Jnanapalam, along with him and gave the miraculous fruit to them. Lord Shiva announced that whoever amongst Lord Murugan and Lord Vinayakar completes a round of the earth first, will get the fruit. Lord Murugan immediately took for the journey on his peacock whereas Lord Vinayakar denoted his parents as the world and took a round around them. This is how Lord Vinayakar got the fruit. Murugan felt cheated, left his home and became a recluse.
He traveled to Palani Hills in anger, and then Lord Shiva called him as Pazham Nee i.e. the fruit itself. This is how the place came to be known as Palani. The deity of Lord Subramanya Temple is in the form of a sage, standing with a stick in his hand and is called Dandayudhapani. The statue was made by Muni Bhoga, by mixing Nine Poisons called Navapashanam in a specific proportion. The idol thus contains miraculous powers.
The abhishekam water and the sandal paste is said to cure diseases like asthma and leucoderma. Anything which comes in contact with the idol is said to be charged with divinity. Therefore, people flock to the temple to realize their dreams and to satisfy their desires. Devotees from all over the nation visit the temple with Kavadi, to please the Lord and to be blessed. A number of rare herbs of medicinal value also grow on the slopes of the Palani hills.
Owing to the divine powers of the idol, Palani is considered to be the most important place of worship of Lord Subramanya. The temple is one of the richest temples in South India. Huge contributions are made by the devotees in the Hundi. There are a number of other temples in the vicinity to be visited. The most striking feature of the temple is that the deity is also worshipped by the Muslims. It is because of the direction towards which the deity looks. So, one can say that the temple is a perfect example of unity in diversity.
He brought a golden mango, known as Jnanapalam, along with him and gave the miraculous fruit to them. Lord Shiva announced that whoever amongst Lord Murugan and Lord Vinayakar completes a round of the earth first, will get the fruit. Lord Murugan immediately took for the journey on his peacock whereas Lord Vinayakar denoted his parents as the world and took a round around them. This is how Lord Vinayakar got the fruit. Murugan felt cheated, left his home and became a recluse.
He traveled to Palani Hills in anger, and then Lord Shiva called him as Pazham Nee i.e. the fruit itself. This is how the place came to be known as Palani. The deity of Lord Subramanya Temple is in the form of a sage, standing with a stick in his hand and is called Dandayudhapani. The statue was made by Muni Bhoga, by mixing Nine Poisons called Navapashanam in a specific proportion. The idol thus contains miraculous powers.
The abhishekam water and the sandal paste is said to cure diseases like asthma and leucoderma. Anything which comes in contact with the idol is said to be charged with divinity. Therefore, people flock to the temple to realize their dreams and to satisfy their desires. Devotees from all over the nation visit the temple with Kavadi, to please the Lord and to be blessed. A number of rare herbs of medicinal value also grow on the slopes of the Palani hills.
Owing to the divine powers of the idol, Palani is considered to be the most important place of worship of Lord Subramanya. The temple is one of the richest temples in South India. Huge contributions are made by the devotees in the Hundi. There are a number of other temples in the vicinity to be visited. The most striking feature of the temple is that the deity is also worshipped by the Muslims. It is because of the direction towards which the deity looks. So, one can say that the temple is a perfect example of unity in diversity.
Yoga
1. What is Yoga?
The word yoga has originated from Sanskrit language and means union or merger. Yoga is the union of physical, mental and spiritual self. It is the realization of the union of the self and ultimately, the union of self with the divine. It is an art, a science and a philosophy that originated, perfected and practiced in India thousands of years ago. Yoga is a way of life aims at the attainment of the physical, mental and spiritual health. To achieve this, yoga uses movement, breath, posture, relaxation and meditation in order to establish a healthy, lively and balanced approach to life. The benefits of Yoga have rediscovered in modern world and it has become “the new age fitness mantra” but these days the focus is more on the down-to-earth benefits of Yoga, including improved physical fitness, mental clarity, greater self-understanding, stress control and general well being.
2. What was the History and origin of Yoga?
The history of Yoga can be divided into four main periods which are the Vedic period, pre-classical period, classical period and post-classical period.
Vedic Period – The word "Yoga" was mentioned first of all in the Rig Veda, the oldest sacred texts. The yoga practices in this period were focused on rituals, sacrifices, and ceremonies as people believed in a ritualistic way of life. Vedic masters were blessed with a vision of the supreme reality and their hymns speak of their marvelous intuitions.
Pre Classic Period - During the pre-classical period, the Yoga was developed by the Indus-Sarasvati civilization in the northern India. During this period the old practices of vedic period were studied and refined by yogis and collected in the form of Upanishadas. There are about two hundred texts that speak in detail about the self and ultimate reality. One of the most remarkable scriptures of the period is Bhagavad Gita which was composed around 500 B.C.
Classical Period - During the classical period, the first systematic presentation of yoga was made in the Patanjali's yoga sutras. Yoga Sutras are composed of 195 aphorisms and describes the Raja Yoga or the eight-fold path, which is known as "classical yoga". Patanjali is often considered as the father of yoga and his yoga-sutras still strongly influence all styles of modern yoga. The eight-fold path of Patanjali contains the steps to obtain the enlightenment.
Post Classical Period - During the post-classical period, the teachers of yoga started to probe into the hidden powers of the body. In the earlier periods the yoga practices was centered on meditation and contemplation but in this period the emphasis shifted to the practices that would rejuvenate the body and prolong its life. The yogis of the period rejected the teachings of the ancient Vedas and developed the Tantra Yoga, with various techniques to cleanse the body and mind. These practices further led to the creation of Hatha Yoga, which is presently practiced throughout the world.
3. What is Hatha Yoga?
Hatha Yoga is a type of yoga that emphasis on rejuvenation and health of body. There are various yoga postures that come under the definition of Hatha Yoga. It broadly consists of asanas (body postures), pranayama (body techniques) relaxation and cleansing techniques. Hatha yoga is the most commonly practiced form of yoga today. Hatha yoga refers to a set of physical exercises (known as asanas or postures) and sequences of asanas, designed to align the skin, muscles and bones.
4. What are the benefits of yoga?
Yoga is a complete science and art that not only emphasis on physical health but also ensures mental and spiritual health of an individual. Some of the general benefits of Yoga include:
*It Improves muscle tone, flexibility, strength and stamina
*It helps reducing excessive body fat
*It Improves circulation and stimulates the immune system
*It keeps one young and healthy
*It helps to lower the levels of lactate, cholesterol etc
*It maintains blood pressure
*It reduces stress and tension, anxiety, depression, irritability and moodiness
*It enhances self esteem and improves concentration and creativity
*It helps to heal old traumas and enhances emotional stability
*It increases brain wave coherence and improves comprehensive ability and memory
*It encourages interdependence between mind, body, and spirit and helps an individual to attain the union between a person's own consciousness and the cosmic consciousness.
5. How is Yoga helpful in our day-to-day life?
According to Yogic believe life is combination of the things that bring us peace, joy, contentment and open, loving awareness. But in modern days our day to day life is undergoing through different kinds of Stress. Stress can be summed up in the things that cause us to act against our basic human nature or that disturb the natural state of mind and body. We have job stress, family or relationship stress, health stress, money stress and many more. Along with this the changes in lifestyle and eating habits also disturbs the natural calm state of body. In such conditions we need some activity that tuned our mind and body and give us a real joy and contentment. Yoga helps us to achieve these things as it controls the working of mind and helps to improve many physical and mental disorders.
6. What are the preparatory steps which one should follow before starting the Yoga practice?
Like any other physical exercise or routine, it is required to follow some preparatory steps before starting with the Yoga practice:
*One should study each asana properly before practicing it.
*You need to put emphasis on breathing and should follow the breathing instructions carefully.
*Try to follow the instructions as much as you can, do not work beyond your comfort level as this
could led to injuries.
*Do not practice asana if your muscles are overloaded or you will suffer from severe pain anywhere in
the body later on.
*Maintain the full control over the movements of your limbs while performing asana otherwise you can
hurt yourself.
*Any time during your yoga session, you feel tired, practice Shavasana for few minutes to relax. *Release the asana posture if the steadiness is lost and your muscle starts vibrating.
*Before starting any yoga regimen do consult your doctor and trainer.
7. Can Yoga help me to lose weight?
Yes, yoga can help you to shed that extra fat you always want to get rid of. The yoga practices like Yogasana and Pranayama improve the digestion capacity of the body and helps to reduce excessive fat consumption of the body. Yoga assists you in two ways, it helps you to burn calories and also tones your muscles and improve your posture. The complete yoga regimen includes healthy diet also. That means you need to be conscious of the foods you eat, sticking with natural, fresh fruits and vegetables, grains, etc. as much as possible while limiting your intake of junk food and foods high in fat, like red meat. In order to reduce fat you need to practice the yoga daily (or at least 4-5 days a week). It is better if you do yoga under the supervision of a learned trainer but you can also take help from books and videos and websites. Ultimately Yoga makes you look and feel better and promises complete health.
8.What is the advantage of Yoga over the other Exercises?
In many aspects Yoga is better than other methods of exercise. Most of the physical exercises increase the strength and stamina of the muscles but Yoga works on complete body mind complex. It is perhaps the only form of physical activity that massages each and every gland and organ of the body. Unlike other forms yoga does not require expensive equipments or playgrounds etc. you can practice yoga asana at your home with a simple mat or blanket. It offers you complete health solution right at your doorstep. Apart from the physical benefits yoga helps to sooth your mind and spirits also. Thus it provides you complete physical, mental ,spiritual health.
9. Are there any special instructions for the women while practicing Yoga?
Yoga is equally beneficial for men and women. But there are certain asanas that should not be practiced by women. Women also need to have some precautions in yoga practices during the menstrual period and pregnancy. During menstruation any kind of inverting asana should not be practiced as they reverses blood flow. You must ensure that the stomach's muscles are not stretched if you practice some form of asana during menstruation.
10. Can Women practice Yoga during Pregnancy?
Yes you can practice yoga during pregnancy. Infact there are certain asana that help to ease pregnancy. But you need to consult a doctor before starting yoga after you get pregnant or want to practice yoga. You will need to take a few precautions during this period. Do not try to practice any asana on your own, always consult learned trainer and do yoga under experet instructions. You must also avoid certain exercises which can cause damage to your baby. This may spoil the chances of your pregnancy. The most important thing is to listen to your body.
11. How many times per week should one practice Yoga?
Yoga is wonderful exercise that yields results even if you only practice for one hour a week. The frequency of yoga sessions depends on the cause for which you are practicing it. Technically one should do it everyday as part of daily routine but usually it is not achievable. Initially start with two or three times a week, for an hour or an hour and a half each time. If you only practice for 2 times a week or 20 minutes daily you will certainly experience the desired benefits. But for maximum results you need to be regular. Always keep in mind that some yoga is always better than no yoga.
12. Which is the best time to perform Yoga?
Ideally yoga should be practiced early in the morning. But if it is not feasible, you can practice Yoga in the evening also. But remember that there should be at least four hours difference between your lunch and yoga session. Always practice yoga asana with empty stomach.
13. Why are you supposed to refrain from eating two to three hours before Yoga session?
It is always said that yoga should be practiced with empty stomach. The reason behind it that in yoga there are different asanas where you need to twist from side to side, turn upside down, and bend forward and backward. If you have not fully digested your last meal, you will find it difficult to practice such asana. You might experience cramps, nausea, or vomiting also. If you are a person with a fast-acting digestive system and are afraid you might get hungry or feel weak during yoga class, you can have a light snack such as yogurt, a few nuts, or juice about 30 minutes to an hour before the session.
14. Is there any age limit for performing Yoga?
Ideally, Yoga can be practiced by anybody who is between the age of 12 years to 60 years. But it can also be practiced at the age of 80 years if your body permits you. Similarly there are some specila yogas for children also. The only thing one need to consider is the that choose asanas that are suitable to your physical conditions.
15.What are Do’s and Don'ts while practicing Yoga?
Do’s
Time for practice
Yoga can be practiced anytime when your stomach is empty. But ideally the early morning time is most suitable. The evening time about 4 hours after lunch is also suitable for practice, provided no additional food is taken in between.
The sessions
Practice the sessions continuously, it means that do not split your yoga session in the morning and evening. Choose any suitable time and practice yoga at the same time daily.
Place
Yoga should be practiced in a clean, airy, spacious, pollution free, warm place with not so bright lights.
Accessories
Yoga is performed on plain floor that is leveled. You can spread carpet or mat on floor while performing asanas. You can also use folded blanket or towel during practice.
Position
It means the direction, according to the ancient texts, one should face either east or north while practicing yoga asanas.
Clothes
You should wear comfortable loose clothes, particularily around the waist so that you can breath and stretch freely. Tight clothes may restrict the circulation to some areas of the body and would beat one of the purposes of the asanas, that of increasing the circulation to various parts of the body.
Don’ts
*Never practice yoga asanas on a full stomach.
*Don't start practicing asanas immediately after getting out of bed, since your body will be
too stiff.
*Don’t practice the asanas before bed, as the stimulating effect of asanas may prevent you from getting to sleep easily.
*Don't take a hot shower or bath immediately after practicing yoga, since this draws blood away from
the internal organs and glands to go to the skin.
*Concentrate on your own pose and never ignore the indications of your body. Light physical exercises, followed by yogasana, pranayama and meditation is the ideal sequence.
16.What is Pranayama?
The term Pranayama has been coined from two Sanskrit words - Prana means life force and Ayama means control. Hence, in its broadest description, Prananyama would mean the control of the flow of life force. It is both the science and art of breath control and nadi purification. There are different breathing techniques that essentially work on three main things: regulation of breath, control of vital force and chanalisation of the Pranas (vital body force) in the right directions. Pranayama purifies the channels along which the life stream of ‘prana’ flows and helps to prevent and even cure a variety of physical and mental ailments. It also increases one’s overall immunity and resistance to disease.
17.What is Asana?
The literal meaning of the term Asana is seat in Sanskrit, but in yoga it refers to a steady and comfortable physical posture or pose.
Courtallam
One of the major excursions around Madurai is the city Courtallam. It lies 160 km from the temple city and is famous for its waterfalls. Popularly known as the 'Spa of the South', it is blessed with immense natural beauty. A panchayat town, it is situated on the Western Ghats of India, at a height of about 167 m. Rivers such as the Chittar, Manimuthar, Pachaiyar and Tambaraparani, originate from here. The pleasant climate, scenic beauty and breathtaking waterfalls make Courtallam a hot spot amongst the tourists.
Apart from being a tourist spot, the city is also a famous health resort. Its waterfalls are said to possess medicinal properties and bathing in these falls is one of the major tourist attractions. The water of the falls runs from the forest, consisting of herbs and medicinal plants. This provides the water its therapeutic value. It is said that the water cures physical ailments very rapidly and has a soothing effect on a person. Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation even provides boating facilities for tourists.
Some of the most important waterfalls at Courtallam are Peraruvi (Main Falls), Chitraruvi, (Small Falls), Shenbaga Devi Falls, Thenaruvi (Honey Falls) Aintharuvi (Five Falls), Puli Aruvi (Tiger Falls), Pazhaya Aruvi (Old Falls), Puthu Aruvi (New Falls) and the Pazhathotta Aruvi (Fruit Garden Falls). The best time to visit these falls is June to September. The climate is very pleasant here during this time. Courtallam water falls are lit during the night for the convenience of the visitors. There is a Hindu temple in the city, dedicated to Lord Siva, called the Kutraleeshwarar temple.
The Gopuram of the temple has inscriptions regarding Chola and Pandya Kings. There is also a small temple nearby called Chitra Sabha. It is supposed that Lord Nataraja performed the cosmic dance here. It is also believed that here, Sage Agastyar got the vision to see the wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati held at Mount Himalaya. Many people get married here to be blessed by the Lord. There are a number of deities present inside the temple including Lord Vishnu, Kasi Viswanathar, Kasi Visalakshi, Tenkasi Viswanathar Swamy and Ulagammai Ambikai, Madurai Meenakshi and Sundareshwarar Swamy, etc.
TAJ Garden Retreat
TAJ GARDEN RETREAT IS A SUPERIOR FIRST CLASS LOW RISE HOTEL SITUATED ON A HILL ABOUT 550 FEET ABOVE THE SEA. GUESTS CAN HAVE A PANAROMIC VIEW OF THE FAMOUS SHRI MEENAKSHI TEMPLE AND THE CITY OF MADURAI. SOME ROOMS ARE HOUSED IN A COLONIAL STYLE BUILDING. ALL OF THE GUEST ROOMS ARE COMFORTABLE AND NICELY EQUIPPED TO GIVE A FEELING OF BEING HOME WHILE AWAY FROM HOME. THE HOTEL ALSO HAS A VARIETY OF FACILITIES AND SERVICES THAT ARE SURE TO MEET THE NEEDS OF BOTH BUSINESS AND LEISURE TRAVELLERS.
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NUMBER 40 T P K ROAD, Madurai , India, Asia, 625004
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NUMBER 40 T P K ROAD, Madurai , India, Asia, 625004
காதலியை கவர சில வழிகள்
எப்பொழுதுமே ஆண் தான் தன்னிடம் முதலில் வந்து பேச வேண்டும் என்று நினைப்பவர்கள் பெண்கள்.
* ஒவ்வொரு பெண்ணும் வித்தியாசமானவங்க. சில பேருக்கு பிங்க் கலர்னா பிடிக்கும். சில பேருக்கு ஜீன்ஸ் டிரெஸ்னா பிடிக்கும். சில பெண்கள் குதிரைகள்னா ரொம்ப விரும்புவாங்க. இன்னும் சொல்லப் போனா.. சில பெண்கள் “நெய்ல் பாலிஷ்”-னா ரொம்ப விரும்புவாங்க. விருப்பங்களிலேயே இத்தனை வித்தியாசங்கள் இருக்கு. அதனால பொதுவான விஷயங்கள் எல்லாமே பெண்களுக்கு பிடிக்கும்னு நினைக்காதீங்க.
* காதலுக்கு உண்மையான சாவி எதுன்னா? அது உங்க காதலியைப் பத்தி நீங்க தெரிஞ்சு வைச்சுக்கறது தான். அதனால் வாழ்க்கையை பொருத்தவரைக்கும் உங்க காதலி விரும்பக்கூடிய விஷயங்கள் என்னென்ன? அப்படின்னு முதல்ல கண்டுபிடிக்க முயற்சி பண்ணுங்க…
* உங்க காதலி மேல் முழு நம்பிக்கை வைங்க. அதே சமயத்துல நீங்க ரெண்டு பேரும் எங்காவது “டேட்டிங்” போகும் போது அவங்க உங்க கூட இருக்கும் போது நீங்க எப்படி உணர்வீங்க அப்படின்னு அவங்க கிட்ட சொல்லுங்க.
* ஏன்னா சில பெண்கள் எல்லாரும் வாழ்க்கையில் அனுபவம் வாய்ந்தவர்கள் கிடையாது. அதனால இன்றைக்கு வரைக்கும் அவங்க தங்கள் கிட்ட இருந்தே பல புதிய விஷயங்களை வெளிக் கொண்டு வர முயற்சிப்பாங்க. அதனால எந்த நேரத்திலும் அவங்கள இன்சல்ட் பண்ற மாதிரி பேசாம நல்லா டைம் எடுத்துகிட்டு உங்க காதலியை முழுமையாக தெரிஞ்ச்சு வைச்சுக்கங்க.
* இன்னொரு விஷயங்க… தன் காதலன் மட்டும் தன்கிட்ட ரொமான்டிக்கா நடந்துக்கல, அப்படின்னா… அவங்க ரொம்பவே “டல்” ஆய்டுவாங்களாம். அதனால உங்களுடைய அன்பான பேச்சாலும் அரவணைப்பாலும் உங்க காதலை வெளிப்படுத்துங்க. உங்க காதல் பொன்னானதாக இருக்கணும்னா.. பொறுமையா காதுல வாங்கி அவங்களுக்கு பிடிச்சது விரும்புறது எல்லாத்தையும் புரிஞ்ச வைச்சு அதை செயல்படுத்துறதுக்கு தொடங்குங்க.
* என்னங்க! இப்பவே ரெடி ஆய்ட்டீங்க போல!!!
* ஒவ்வொரு பெண்ணும் வித்தியாசமானவங்க. சில பேருக்கு பிங்க் கலர்னா பிடிக்கும். சில பேருக்கு ஜீன்ஸ் டிரெஸ்னா பிடிக்கும். சில பெண்கள் குதிரைகள்னா ரொம்ப விரும்புவாங்க. இன்னும் சொல்லப் போனா.. சில பெண்கள் “நெய்ல் பாலிஷ்”-னா ரொம்ப விரும்புவாங்க. விருப்பங்களிலேயே இத்தனை வித்தியாசங்கள் இருக்கு. அதனால பொதுவான விஷயங்கள் எல்லாமே பெண்களுக்கு பிடிக்கும்னு நினைக்காதீங்க.
* காதலுக்கு உண்மையான சாவி எதுன்னா? அது உங்க காதலியைப் பத்தி நீங்க தெரிஞ்சு வைச்சுக்கறது தான். அதனால் வாழ்க்கையை பொருத்தவரைக்கும் உங்க காதலி விரும்பக்கூடிய விஷயங்கள் என்னென்ன? அப்படின்னு முதல்ல கண்டுபிடிக்க முயற்சி பண்ணுங்க…
* உங்க காதலி மேல் முழு நம்பிக்கை வைங்க. அதே சமயத்துல நீங்க ரெண்டு பேரும் எங்காவது “டேட்டிங்” போகும் போது அவங்க உங்க கூட இருக்கும் போது நீங்க எப்படி உணர்வீங்க அப்படின்னு அவங்க கிட்ட சொல்லுங்க.
* ஏன்னா சில பெண்கள் எல்லாரும் வாழ்க்கையில் அனுபவம் வாய்ந்தவர்கள் கிடையாது. அதனால இன்றைக்கு வரைக்கும் அவங்க தங்கள் கிட்ட இருந்தே பல புதிய விஷயங்களை வெளிக் கொண்டு வர முயற்சிப்பாங்க. அதனால எந்த நேரத்திலும் அவங்கள இன்சல்ட் பண்ற மாதிரி பேசாம நல்லா டைம் எடுத்துகிட்டு உங்க காதலியை முழுமையாக தெரிஞ்ச்சு வைச்சுக்கங்க.
* இன்னொரு விஷயங்க… தன் காதலன் மட்டும் தன்கிட்ட ரொமான்டிக்கா நடந்துக்கல, அப்படின்னா… அவங்க ரொம்பவே “டல்” ஆய்டுவாங்களாம். அதனால உங்களுடைய அன்பான பேச்சாலும் அரவணைப்பாலும் உங்க காதலை வெளிப்படுத்துங்க. உங்க காதல் பொன்னானதாக இருக்கணும்னா.. பொறுமையா காதுல வாங்கி அவங்களுக்கு பிடிச்சது விரும்புறது எல்லாத்தையும் புரிஞ்ச வைச்சு அதை செயல்படுத்துறதுக்கு தொடங்குங்க.
* என்னங்க! இப்பவே ரெடி ஆய்ட்டீங்க போல!!!
ஆண்களிடம் சொல்ல டாப் 10 `பெண்மொழி’கள்
பெண்களுக்காக செலவு செய்யாத ஆண்கள் உயிரோடு இருந்து என்ன பிரயோஜனம்?
ஆம்பிள்ளை என்று நிரூபிக்க உன்னிடம் வேறு எதுவுமே இல்லையா?
பெட் காஃபி வேண்டும் என்றால் சமையல் அறையில் தூங்கு!
தீய்ந்த வாசனை வருகிறதா? சமையல் ரெடி என்று அர்த்தம்!
ஆண்களுக்கும் உணர்ச்சிகள் உண்டுதான். ஆனால் அது அவர்கள் பிரச்னை!
நீ போய்த் தொலைந்தால்தானே நான் உன்னைப் பிரிந்து ஏங்க முடியும்?
செத்த பிறகு ஆண்கள் எல்லாரும் சொர்க்கத்துக்கும் பெண்கள் எல்லாரும் நரகத்துக்கும் போனால் என்ன ஆகும்? சொர்க்கம் நரகமாகும், நரகம் சொர்க்கமாகும்!
புத்திசாலி ஆண்கள் முட்டாள் பெண்களைக் காதலிப்பதுண்டு. ஆனால் புத்திசாலிப் பெண்கள் முட்டாள் ஆண்களைக் காதலிப்பதில்லை.
ஆண்கள் ஏன் பெண்களின் கண்ணைப் பார்த்து பேசுவதில்லை? ஏனென்றால் அவர்கள் பார்க்கும் இடத்தில் இருப்பவை கண்கள் இல்லை!
என் சமையலைக் குறை சொல்லாதே! அப்புறம் நான் உன்னிடம் `வேறு எதிலாவது’ குறை சொல்வேன்!
ஆம்பிள்ளை என்று நிரூபிக்க உன்னிடம் வேறு எதுவுமே இல்லையா?
பெட் காஃபி வேண்டும் என்றால் சமையல் அறையில் தூங்கு!
தீய்ந்த வாசனை வருகிறதா? சமையல் ரெடி என்று அர்த்தம்!
ஆண்களுக்கும் உணர்ச்சிகள் உண்டுதான். ஆனால் அது அவர்கள் பிரச்னை!
நீ போய்த் தொலைந்தால்தானே நான் உன்னைப் பிரிந்து ஏங்க முடியும்?
செத்த பிறகு ஆண்கள் எல்லாரும் சொர்க்கத்துக்கும் பெண்கள் எல்லாரும் நரகத்துக்கும் போனால் என்ன ஆகும்? சொர்க்கம் நரகமாகும், நரகம் சொர்க்கமாகும்!
புத்திசாலி ஆண்கள் முட்டாள் பெண்களைக் காதலிப்பதுண்டு. ஆனால் புத்திசாலிப் பெண்கள் முட்டாள் ஆண்களைக் காதலிப்பதில்லை.
ஆண்கள் ஏன் பெண்களின் கண்ணைப் பார்த்து பேசுவதில்லை? ஏனென்றால் அவர்கள் பார்க்கும் இடத்தில் இருப்பவை கண்கள் இல்லை!
என் சமையலைக் குறை சொல்லாதே! அப்புறம் நான் உன்னிடம் `வேறு எதிலாவது’ குறை சொல்வேன்!
காத்திருத்தல்… தவம். காதல்… வரம்
உன் தோளில் கிடக் கிற கர்வத்தில் வகுப்பறையின் வாசல்படியையே தள்ளி நிற்கச் சொல்லிவிட்டு, உன்னை உள்ளே அழைத்து வந்தது உன் துப்பட்டா.
நீ செய்யும் அட்டூழியம் இப்படி என்றால், உன்னைக் காதலிக்க ஆரம் பித்த பிறகு நான் செய்யும் அட்டூழியங்களைச் சொல்லி மாளாது.
நீ வந்ததும் வராததுமாக என் நண்பர்கள் உன்னிடம் ஓடி வந்து அம்மா தாயே… ரெண்டு நாளா லீவுங்கறதால, ?உங்கிட்ட பேச முடியாத வாயால் யார்கிட்டயும் பேசமுடியாது?னு சொல்லிட்டு, மௌனவிரதம் இருக்கிறானாம். வாயவே தெறக்காம கையைக் காலை ஆட்டி சைகை செஞ்சே, ஹாஸ்டல்ல இருக்கிற எல்லாரையும் கொன்னுட்டான் உன் ஆளு. ஆனா, மூணுவேளையும் சாப்பிட மட்டும் வாயத் தெறந்தான். ?அதுக்கு மட்டும் ஏண்டா தெறக்கிற??னு கேட்டா… ?நான் சாப்பிடலைனா என் தேவதைக்குப் பசிக்குமே!?னு எழுதிக் காட்டுறான் என்று என் அட்டூழி யங்களை எடுத்துவிட்டார்கள்.
நீயோ சிரித்தபடி, சும்மாவே ஏடாகூடமா பேசுவ நீ. இதுல சைகை பாஷை வேறயா… பாவம் பசங்க! என்றாய்.
?ஏடாகூடமாவா..? இன்னிக்கு எங்கிட்ட மாட்டினே..?? என்று நினைத்தபடி ?நேத்து உங்கப்பா அம்மாவோட உன்னைக் கடைவீதியில பார்த்தேனே…? என்று என் மௌன விரதத்தைக் கலைத்தேன்.
?அடப்பாவி… இதைத்தான் நேத்து மதியம் பூரா சைகையில சொல்லி எங்களக் கொன்னியா? என்று என்னை அடிக்க வந்தார்கள் நண்பர்கள்.
அதற்கும் நீ சிரித்தபடி என் கல்யாணத்துக்கு நகை வாங்கப் போனோம் என்று ஒரு குண்டைத் தூக்கிப் போட்டாய்.
?என்னது… கல்யாணத்துக்கா?ՠஎன்று கத்தினேன் நான்.
கத்தாத… எல்லா அப்பா அம்மாவும் அப்பப்ப தன் பெண்ணோட கல்யாணத்துக்கு நகை வாங்கிச் சேப்பாங்கல்ல… அதான் இது என்றாய்.
அப்பாடா என்று நான் அமைதியடை யும்போது ?என் கல்யாணத்துக் காக எங்க அப்பா அம்மா என்னெல் லாம் சேத்து வைச்சிருக்காங்க தெரியுமா… என்றாய்.
?உங்க அப்பா & அம்மா சேத்து வெச்சதெல்லாம் எனக்கு வேணாம். நீ சேத்து வெச்சிருக்கிறதே போதும் எனக்கு? என்று என் ஏடாகூடத்தை ஆரம்பித்தேன்.
?நான் ஒண்ணும் சேத்துவைக்கலியே? என்றாய் அப்பாவியாக.
?ஒண்ணும் சேத்து வைக்கலியா… தோ, ஒரு பெரிய கண்ணாடி இருக்கே… போய் அதுக்கு முன்னாடி நின்னு பாரு… நீ என்னென்ன சேத்து வெச்சிருக்கேனு தெரியும்? என்றேன்.
ச்சீ என்று அழகு காட்டி விட்டு எங்கடா கத்துகிட்ட இப்படி எல்லாம் பேச என்றாய்.
காதலிடம்! என்றேன் நான்.
உன் பாட்டியின் நினைவுநாளில்
நீ ஒரு சின்ன இலையில்
சாதத்தை வைத்துக் கொண்டு
கா கா என்று கத்துவதைப்
பார்த்ததும்
அட… குயில் காகான்னு கூவுதே
என்றேன்.
நீ இலையைக் கிணற்றுமேல்
போட்டுவிட்டு
மானைப்போல் ஓடி மறைந்தாய்.
உன்னைப் பார்த்தால்
எடை பார்க்கும் இயந்திரம் கூட
கவிதை எழுத ஆரம்பித்துவிடும் போல.
உன் எடையை அடிக்க வேண்டிய இடத்தில்
அழகு நீங்கலாக 50 கிலோ என்று
அடித்திருப்பதைப் பார்!
தபூ சங்கர்-
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