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.
Monday, July 28, 2008
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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Property Address
NUMBER 40 T P K ROAD, Madurai , India, Asia, 625004
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Property Address
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.
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தபூ சங்கர்-
கமலின் பார்ப்பனிய முகம்
தசாவதாரம் - பலராலும் பல விதமாக விமர்சிக்கப்பட்டு விட்டது. என்னுடைய பங்கிற்கும் தசாவதாரம் படத்தைப் பார்த்த பொழுது, பார்த்து முடித்த பின்பு எனக்கு ஏற்பட்ட சிந்தனைகளை பதிவு செய்யலாம் என்று நினைக்கிறேன்.
கமல் மீது எனக்கு எப்போதுமே ஒரு சந்தேகம் உண்டு. தம்மைப் முற்போக்குவாதிகளாக காட்டிக் கொள்கின்ற பார்ப்பனர்கள் ஒரு குறிப்பிட்ட வயதிற்குப் பின்பு தம்முடைய உண்மையான பார்ப்பனிய முகத்தை காட்டி விட்டுப் போயிருக்கின்ற வரலாற்றுப் பதிவுகள் கமலைப் பார்க்கின்ற பொழுது நினைவிற்கு வந்து தொலைக்கும்.
ஆரம்பத்தில் முற்போக்குச் சிந்தனைகளோடு கதைகளை தந்த சுஜாதா கடைசியில் திரைப்படத்துறைக்குள் காலடி எடுத்து வைத்த பொழுது பார்ப்பனிய சக்திகளுடன்தான் கைகோர்த்துக் கொண்டார். பார்ப்பன சங்கத்தில் முழக்கமிடவும் செய்தார்.
கடவுள் மறுப்புக் கொள்கையுடையவராக தன்னை அறிமுகம் செய்த மணிரத்தினம், பார்ப்பன இந்துத்துவ நலன் சார்ந்த திரைப்படங்களை எடுத்துக் கொண்டிருக்கின்றார். 39 வயதை அடைவதற்குள் இறந்து விட்ட பாரதி கூட ஆங்காங்கே தன்னுடைய பார்ப்பனிய சிந்தனைகளை வெளிப்படுத்தித்தான் இருக்கிறார்.
எம்மவர் என்று கருதப்பட்ட எழுத்தாளர் ஞானியும் தன்னுடைய பார்ப்பனிய முகத்தை வெளிப்படுத்தத் தொடங்கி விட்டாரா என்ற சந்தேகம் வருகின்ற அளவிற்கு அவருடைய இன்றைய எழுத்துக்கள் சில அமைகின்றன.
சுஜாதா போன்றவர்களின் சேர்க்கையால் ஏற்பட்ட விளைவோ தெரியவில்லை, கமலும் தன்னுடைய பார்ப்பனிய முகத்தை மெதுமெதுவாக வெளிப்படுத்தத் தொடங்கியிருப்பதாக அண்மைக் காலமாக நான் சந்தேகப்படுகின்றேன். தசாவதாரம் திரைப்படமும் அந்தச் சந்தேகத்தை வலுப்படுத்தியிருக்கிறது.
கமல் ஒரு சிறந்த கலைஞன் என்பதில் எனக்கு எந்தச் சந்தேகமும் இல்லை. தசாவதாரம் படம் மிகவும் விறுவிறுப்பாக படமாக்கப்பட்டிருக்கிறது. பல காட்சிகள் தமிழ் சினிமாவிற்கு புதிது. மீண்டும் ஒரு முறை பார்க்கலாம். கமல் கடைசியாக திரைக்கதை அமைத்த சில படங்கள் வெற்றி அடையாத போதும், தசாவதாரத்தின் மூலம் மீண்டும் தன்னை ஒரு சிறந்த திரைக்கதை அமைப்பாளராக கமல் நிரூபித்திருக்கிறார்.
சுனாமி வருகின்ற பொழுது கடற்கரையில் நிற்கின்ற ஜப்பானிய கமல் “சுனாமி மீண்டும் வருகிறது” என்று கத்துவார். ஒரு ஜப்பானியனைத் தவிர வேறு யார் அந்த இடத்தில் நின்றிருந்தாலும் இந்த வசனம் பொருந்தியிருக்காது. டிசம்பர் 2004 வரை தமிழர்கள் இலக்கியங்களில் வருகின்ற கடற்கோள்கள் பற்றி படித்திருக்கிறார்களே தவிர, சுனாமியை கண்டது இல்லை. (சுனாமி வருவதற்கு முன்பே கமல் தன்னுடைய “அன்பே சிவம்” படத்தில் சுனாமி பற்றி பேசியிருப்பார்.) ஜப்பானில்தான் அடிக்கடி சுனாமி வருவது உண்டு. “சுனாமி” என்ற சொல்லே ஜப்பானிய சொல்தான்.
சுனாமி வருவதை சொல்கின்ற ஜப்பானிய கமல் எவ்வித திணிப்பும் இன்றி, படத்தைப் பார்ப்பவர்களுக்கும் எவ்வித நெருடலும் ஏற்படாத வண்ணம் அங்கே வந்து சேர்கிறார். இப்படி படத்தில் வியப்பதற்கு பல விடயங்கள் உண்டு. முக்கியமாக கமலுடைய உடல்மொழியை சொல்ல வேண்டும்.
படத்தில் “மேக்அப்” படுமோசம் என்று படம் பார்த்த எல்லோரும் சொல்லி விட்டார்கள். முகமூடிகளை மாட்டியது போன்று இருக்கிறது. இந்தியன் திரைப்படத்தில் ஏற்பட்ட பிரமிப்பு தசாவதாரத்தில் ஏற்படவில்லை. சிரிப்புத்தான் வந்தது. முகமூடி போட்டது போன்ற “மேக்அப்” காரணமாக முகம் நடிக்க முடியாது போக, தன்னுடைய உடல்மொழி நடிப்பால் அந்தக் குறையை கமல் சமன் செய்கிறார். அமெரிக்க வில்லன், மனநலம் குன்றிய பாட்டி, தலித் தலைவர், ஜப்பானியர் என்று ஒவ்வொரு பாத்திரத்திற்கும் ஏற்றபடி கமலின் உடல்மொழி அமைகிறது. ஜப்பானிய கமல் சற்றுக் குள்ளமாக தெரிவதன் காரணம் கூட கமலின் நடிப்பே.
தசாவதாரம் படம் பற்றி எழுதுவதை விட கமலின் பார்ப்பனிய முகம் பற்றி எழுதுவதே என்னுடைய நோக்கம் என்பதால், படம் பற்றி எழுதுவதை குறைத்துக் கொண்டு விடயத்திற்கு வருகிறேன்.
கமல் பார்ப்பனிய சிந்தனைக்கு எதிரான ஒருவர் என்பதுதான் பலருடைய கருத்து. பார்ப்பனர்களை மறைமுகமாகச் சாடுகின்ற காட்சிகளை தன்னுடைய படங்களில் அவர் வைத்திருக்கின்றார். தேவர்மகன் படத்தில் கூட இரண்டு சகோதரர்களின் பகையில் வயிறு வளர்க்கின்ற ஒரு பார்ப்பனப் பாத்திரத்தை படைத்திருப்பார். நடிகர் மதன்பாப் செய்த அந்தப் பாத்திரம் இரண்டு சகோதரர்களின் பகையை அதிகரிக்கின்ற கைங்கர்யங்களிலும் ஈடுபடும்.
மகாநதியில் ஒரு பார்ப்பனர் (பூர்ணம் விஸ்வநாதன்) உலகில் நடக்கும் அக்கிரமங்களைக் கண்டும் பகவான் மேல் பாரத்தை போட்டு விட்டு பேசாது இருப்பார். அக்கிரமத்திற்கு எதிராக போராடுகின்ற குணத்தோடு கமல் தோன்றுவார். இப்படி வெளிப்படையாக இல்லையென்றாலும் பார்ப்பனர்களை மறைமுகமாக என்றாலும் தன்னுடைய படங்களில் கமல் தோலுரித்திருக்கிறார்.
ஆனால் என்ன நடந்ததோ தெரியவில்லை. திடீரென்று வசூல்ராஜா எம்பிபிஎஸ் திரைப்படத்தில் பார்ப்பனர்களுக்கு உதவுவதற்கு “நான் இருக்கிறேன்” என்று புஜபலத்தை காட்டியபடி வெளிப்படையாகவே வந்து குதித்தார் கமல்.
கமல்ஹாசன் தன்னை திராவிட கழகத்தை சேர்ந்த ஒருவராக பிரகடனப்படுத்தியிருப்பவர். அதனாலேயே அவரால் பல விமர்சனங்களில் இருந்து தன்னை காத்துக் கொள்ள முடிகிறது. பகுத்தறிவுவாதிகளும் “எம்மவர்” என்ற பாசத்தோடு கமல் என்ன செய்தாலும் அதற்கு அவர்களே ஒரு சமாதானத்தையும் சொல்லி விட்டு போய் விடுகிறார்கள்.
பார்ப்பனர் அல்லாத இயக்குனரான சங்கரை ஒரு பார்ப்பனியவாதியாக இனங்காண முடிந்த இவர்களுக்கு கமலைப் பற்றி ஒரு சிறு சந்தேகம் கூட வரவில்லை என்பது ஆச்சரியமான விடயம்தான்.
தமிழ் சினிமாவில் பார்ப்பனர்களை மிகவும் அப்பாவிகளாக காட்டுகின்ற ஒரு வழக்கம் பல ஆண்டுகளாகவே நிலவி வருகின்றது. பார்ப்பன சமூகத்தை சேர்ந்த தயாரிப்பாளர்களும் இயக்குனர்களும் தொடக்கி வைத்த பழக்கம் இன்று வரை தொடர்கிறது.
பார்ப்பனர்கள் ஆயிரம் ஆண்டுகளாக தமிழர்களை அடிமைப்படுத்தி வைத்திருக்கின்ற வரலாற்று உண்மையை உணர்ந்து தமிழ்நாட்டில் உருவான விழிப்புணர்ச்சி பெரும் திருப்பங்களை உருவாக்கியது. இந்த விழிப்புணர்ச்சியில் ஏற்பட்ட மாற்றங்கள் தமிழ்நாட்டின் அரசியலையே மாற்றியது. இந்த வரலாற்று உண்மைக்கு எதிரான முறையில் பார்ப்பனர்கள் உருவாக்க முனையும் மாய விம்பத்தின் ஒரு பகுதிதான் சினிமாக்களில் பார்ப்பனர்களை அப்பாவியாகக் காட்டுவது என்பது.
ஆதாவது ஒரு மக்கள் கூட்டத்தை கேவலப்படுத்தி அடக்கி வைத்திருந்த அடக்குமுறையாளர்களை “தனி மனித அப்பாவிகள்” என்று காட்டுகின்ற ஒரு அரசியல் இங்கே ஒளிந்திருக்கிறது.
சில ஆண்டுகளுக்கு முன்பு வரை பார்ப்பனர்களை “சூழ்ச்சி மிக்கவர்களாகவும்”, “சமூக அக்கறை அற்றவர்களாகவும்” சித்தரித்த கமல் தற்பொழுது பார்ப்பனர்களை தொடர்ந்து அப்பாவிகளாகவே சித்தரித்து வருகின்றார். இதனுடைய உச்சக்கட்டமாக வசூல்ராஜா திரைப்படத்தில் வந்த காட்சி அமைந்தது.
கமல் படிக்கும் மருத்துவக் கல்லூரியில் ஒரு அப்பாவி இளைஞனை மூத்த மாணவர்கள் “ராக்கிங்” (பகிடிவதை) செய்ய முனைவார்கள். அந்த அப்பாவி இளைஞனின் சட்டையைக் கழற்றி விட்டு அவனை நடனம் ஆடச் சொல்வார்கள். சட்டை கழற்றப்பட்ட அந்தப் அப்பாவி இளைஞனின் மேனியை பூணூல் அலங்கரித்திருக்கும்.
உண்மையில் அந்தக் காட்சியில் பூணூல் வர வேண்டிய எந்த அவசியமும் இல்லை. பூணூல் அணியாமல் கூட ஒரு அப்பாவி இளைஞனை சித்தரித்திருக்க முடியும். உண்மையான அப்பாவிகள் பூணூல் அணியாதவர்கள்தான். ஆனால் கமல் அங்கே பூணூலை திணிக்கிறார். கமல் வந்து தன்னையும் “ராக்கிங்” செய்யச் சொல்வார். மாணவர்கள் அமைதியாக இருப்பார்கள். “உருத்திராட்சக் கொட்டை அணிந்தவனை மட்டும்தான் ராக்கிங் செய்வீர்களா” என்று ஒரு கேள்வியைக் கேட்பார். பின்பு தன்னுடைய புஜபலத்தைக் காட்டி ராக்கிங் செய்த மாணவர்களையே ராக்கிங் செய்து விட்டு, பூணூல் அணிந்த அப்பாவியிடம் கமல் சொல்வார் “கவலைப்படாதே! நான் இருக்கிறேன்”.
வசூல்ராஜா திரைப்படத்தின் இயக்குனர் சங்கரோ, மணிரத்தினமோ இல்லை என்பதாலோ, இந்தப் படத்தில் கமல்தான் கதாநாயகன் என்பதாலோ இந்தக் காட்சி சொல்கின்ற செய்தியின் அர்த்தம் மாறிவிடப் போவதில்லை.
கமல் தயாரித்த நளதமயந்தியிலும் மாதவன் ஒரு அப்பாவிப் பார்ப்பனர்தான் என்பதையும் இங்கே கருத்தில் எடுத்துக் கொள்ள வேண்டும். கமல் கடவுளை நம்பாதவராக இருக்கலாம். ஆனால் பார்ப்பனியம் கொண்டிருக்கும் முகங்களில் பலவற்றை கமலும் கொண்டிருக்கிறார் என்பதுதான் இங்கு பிரச்சனை. கமலை ஒரு முற்போக்குவாதி என்று உறுதியாகச் சொல்பவர்கள் இதை மறுத்து பல உதாரணங்களைக் காட்டக் கூடும். கமல் பெண்கள், பாலியல் போன்ற விடயங்களில் முற்போக்காகச் சிந்திப்பவர் என்று பலர் கருதுகிறார்கள். “நாயகன்” திரைப்படத்தில் கமல் பாலியல் தொழில் செய்கின்ற ஒரு பெண்ணை திருமணம் செய்வதாக வருகின்ற காட்சியை உதாரணமாகச் சொல்பவர்கள் இருக்கின்றார்கள். “மும்பை எஸ்பிரஸ்” திரைப்படத்தில் வேறொருவருக்கு ஆசைநாயகியாக இருந்த ஒரு பெண்ணை கமல் திருமணம் செய்வது போன்று வரும்.
இப்படியான காட்சிகளின் மூலம் தமிழ் சினிமா கொண்டிருக்கும் உழுத்துப்போன பாரம்பரியங்களை உடைப்பதற்கு கமல் முயல்கின்றார் என்கின்ற கருத்து பலரிடம் உண்டு. ஆனால் இந்தக் காட்சிகளை நாம் சற்று ஆழமாகப் பார்க்க வேண்டும். இந்தக் காட்சிகள் பார்வையாளர்களின் மனதில் எவ்வித அதிர்வுகளையோ நெருடல்களையோ ஏற்படுத்தவில்லை. வெகு இயல்பாக பார்வையாளர்கள் இந்தக் காட்சிகளை ஏற்றுக் கொள்கிறார்கள். அதற்குக் காரணம் இருக்கிறது.
நாயகன் திரைப்படத்தில் பாலியல் தொழில் செய்யும் பெண்ணை திருமணம் செய்பவன் ஒரு தாதா. கடத்தல்களையும் கொலைகளையும் செய்கின்ற ஒருவன், அதாவது சட்டவிரோத தொழில் செய்கின்ற ஒருவன் சட்டவிரோத தொழில் செய்கின்ற ஒரு பெண்ணை திருமணம் செய்கின்றான். சோடிப் பொருத்தம் சரியாக இருக்கின்றது. பார்வையாளனும் இயல்பாக அதை ஏற்றுக்கொள்கிறான்.
மும்பை எஸ்பிரஸ் திரைப்படத்தில் கதாநாயகன் ஒரு திருடன். ஒரு திருடன் வேறொருவருக்கு ஆசைநாயகியாக இருக்கின்ற ஒரு நடனப் பெண்மணியை திருமணம் செய்வது பற்றியும் எந்தப் பார்வையாளனும் ஆட்சேபிக்கப் போவது இல்லை. கமல் தன்னை ஒரு “ஹீரோ” என்கின்ற வட்டத்தைத் தாண்டி படத்தில் வரும் பாத்திரமாக பார்வையாளர்களை ஏற்றுக் கொள்ளச் செய்ய வைப்பதில் வெற்றி பெற்று பல வருடங்கள் ஆகி விட்டது. ஆகவே ஒரு ஹீரோ பாலியல் தொழிலாளியை திருமணம் செய்கின்றான் என்ற காட்சியை விட, ஒரு கடத்தல்காரன் ; ஒரு பாலியல் தொழிலாளியை திருமணம் செய்கின்ற காட்சியே அங்கே முன்னிற்கிறது. இதில் எங்கே இருக்கிறது புரட்சி… இன்ன பிற?
கமல் தன்னை வித்தியாசமானவராகக் காட்டிக் கொள்ள முயன்றாலும், கடைசியில் பொதுமைப்படுத்தப்பட்ட சிந்தனையோடு சமரசம் செய்து கொள்கிறார். கமல் பலரால் போற்றப்படுவதற்கு காரணமான எத்தனையோ விடயங்கள் உண்மையில் அப்படி அல்ல என்பதை சுட்டிக் காட்டவே “நாயகன்”, “மும்பை எக்ஸ்பிரஸ்” போன்ற உதாரணங்களை கூறினேன். இப்பொழுது மீண்டும் பார்ப்பனியம் சார்ந்த விடயத்திற்கு வருவோம்.
தசாவதாரம் படத்தின் மூலம் பார்ப்பனிய நலன் சார்ந்த ஒரு அரசியலுக்கு கமல் துணை போகின்றார். பாபர் மசூதி இடிப்பிற்கு பின்பு திரைப்படத் துறையில் பார்ப்பனிய சக்திகள் அதிகரித்த வகையில் செய்து வருகின்ற இந்த அரசியலை கமலும் செய்கிறார்.
பார்ப்பனர்களை அப்பாவியாக சித்தரிக்கின்ற அரசியலுக்கு துணை போகின்ற கமல்ஹாசன் இந்துத்துவத்தின் இன்னொரு அரசியலுக்கும் தசாவதாரத்தின் மூலம் துணை போகின்றார். பாபர் மசூதி பிரச்சனைக்குப் பின் நடைபெற்றுவரும் இந்த அரசியலை சற்று சுருக்கமாகப் பார்ப்போம்.
“அறை எண் 305இல் கடவுள்” படத்தில் ஒரு காட்சி வரும். பிரகாஸ்ராஜ் ஒவ்வொரு மதத்தினதும் கடவுளின் வடிவத்தில் தோன்றுவார். இந்து மதத்தின் முறை வருகின்ற போது அங்கே விஸ்ணுவின் வடிவத்தில் பிரகாஸ்ராஜ் தோன்றுவார். இதுதான் அந்த அரசியல்.
சில பத்து ஆண்டுகளுக்கு முன்பு வெளிவந்த தமிழ் சினிமாவின் பக்திப் படங்களைப் பார்க்கின்ற போது விஸ்ணு ஒரு துணைப் பாத்திரமாகத்தான் இருந்தார். இரண்டு மூன்று வசனங்களுக்கு மேல் அவருக்கு இருக்காது. தெலுங்கிலிருந்து டப்பிங் செய்யப்பட்ட “பக்த பிரகாலதா” போன்ற ஒரிரு திரைப்படங்களைத் தவிர மற்றைய பக்திப் படங்கள் அனைத்தும் “சிவமயமாகவே” இருந்தன.
சில ஆண்டுகளுக்கு முன்பு வரை தமிழ்சினிமாவில் இந்துக்களின் முதன்மையான கடவுள் என்றால் அது சிவன்தான். இன்றைக்கு நிலைமை மாறி விட்டது. சிவன் பின்தள்ளப்பட்டு விஸ்ணு முன்னிறுத்தப்பட்டு வருகின்றார். அதுவும் பாபர் மசூதி விவகாரத்திற்கு பின்பு ராமர், விஸ்ணு, கிருஸ்ணர் போன்ற கடவுள்கள் முன்னிறுத்தப்படுவது அதிகரித்துள்ளது.
முன்பு தமிழ் சினிமாவில் நாமத்தோடு கூடிய முகங்களை வெகு குறைவாகத்தான் பார்க்கலாம். அப்படி வருகின்ற முகங்களும் அநேகமாக நகைச்சுவைப் பாத்திரமாகத்தான் இருக்கும். ஆனால் இன்றைக்கு கிராமத்தில் இருந்த வருவதாகக் காட்டப்படும் பாத்திரங்கள்தான் அநேகமாக விபூதியை பூசிக் கொண்டு வருகின்றன. நகரத்து நாயகர்கள் நாமத்தோடு வருகின்றார்கள். பார்ப்பனப் பாத்திரங்களைக் காட்டுவது என்றால் கிராமமோ, நகரமோ அங்கே நாமம்தான் இருக்கின்றது. கடந்த சில வருடங்களாக மெது மெதுவாக நடந்து வருகின்ற இந்த மாற்றம் தற்பொழுது யாரும் உணராத வண்ணம் உச்சக் கட்டத்தை எட்டியுள்ளது.
மிகவும் திட்டமிட்டுச் செய்யப்படும் நுண்ணியமான அரசியல் இது. ராம ஜென்ம பூமி விவகாரத்தில் பார்ப்பனிய இந்துத்துவ சக்திகள் விரும்பியது போன்று இந்துக்கள் என்று கருதப்படுபவர்களில் பெரும்பான்மையான மக்கள் ராமருக்காக கொதித்து எழவில்லை. இதற்கு தந்தை பெரியார் போன்றவர்கள் ஏற்படுத்தியுள்ள விழிப்புணர்ச்சி ஒரு காரணமாக இருந்தாலும் வேறு ஒரு காரணமும் இருக்கிறது.
தம்மை இந்துவாக கருதி இந்துக் கடவுள்களை வணங்குகின்ற எததனையோ பேர் ராமனையோ, விஸ்ணுவையோ வணங்குவது இல்லை. ராமனை ஒரு கதையின் நாயகனாக மட்டும் கருதுகின்ற கோடிக் கணக்கான இந்துக்கள் இருக்கின்றார்கள். இவர்கள் சிவன் போன்ற வேறு கடவுள்களை தமது முதற் கடவுளாக வணங்கி வருபவர்கள். இவர்களுக்கு மத நம்பிக்கை இருந்தும், ராம ஜென்ம பூமி விவகாரம் இவர்களிடம் பெரிய தாக்கம் எதையும் ஏற்படுத்தவில்லை.
இந்த நிலையில் விஸ்ணு சார்ந்த கடவுள்களை மக்களிடம் முன்னிறுத்துவதற்கு பல வழிகளில் இந்துத்துவ சக்திகள் முயன்று வருகின்றன. இந்த திட்டத்தின் ஒரு பகுதிதான் சினிமாக்களில் விஸ்ணு, ராமர் போன்றவற்றை இந்து மதத்தின் பெரும் கடவுள்களாக முன்னிலைப் படுத்துவது என்பது. இந்த வேலையை “தசாவதாரம்” திரைப்படம் மிகச் சிறப்பாகச் செய்கிறது.
மணிரத்தினத்தின் பம்பாய் திரைப்படம் இந்துத்துவத்திற்கு சார்பான படமாக சிலரால் விமர்சிக்கப்படுவது உண்டு. மணிரத்தினமும் “துலுக்கச்சி” போன்று சொற்களின் மூலம் தன்னுடைய உள்ளக்கிடக்கையை வெளிப்படுத்தியிருந்தாலும், “பம்பாய்” திரைப்படத்தை ஆழமாக ஆராயாது விட்டால், மணிரத்தினத்தின் இந்துத்துவ சிந்தனையை கண்டுபிடிப்பது மிகக் கடினமாகி விடும். அந்தளவிற்கு மணிரத்தினம் தன்னை நடுநிலையாளராகக் காண்பிக்கும் நோக்கோடு படத்தில் வரும் காட்சிகளை அமைத்திருப்பார்.
இஸ்லாமியர்கள் வன்முறையில் இறங்குகின்ற காட்சி வந்தால், அடுத்ததாக இந்துக்கள் வன்முறையில் இறங்குகின்ற காட்சி வரும். ஒரு இஸ்லாமியர் கொல்லப்படும் காட்சி வந்தால், அடுத்து ஒரு இந்து கொல்லப்படும் காட்சி வரும். இப்படி இரு தரப்பும் சமாமான முறையில் தாக்கப்படுகின்ற மற்றும் தாக்குகின்ற கட்சிகளை மணிரத்தினம் கவனம் எடுத்து உருவாக்கியருப்பார்.
இந்தக் குறைந்தபட்ச நடுநிலைமையைக் கூட கமல் தன்னுடைய தசாவதாரம் படத்தில் வெளிப்படுத்தவில்லை. முற்று முழுதாகவே வைணவ சார்பு நிலை எடுக்கின்றார்.
தசாவதாரம் திரைப்படத்தின் கதை எல்லோருக்கும் தெரிந்ததுதான். 12ஆம் நூற்றாண்டில் படம் ஆரம்பிக்கின்றது. சைவ மன்னனாகிய இரண்டாம் குலோத்துங்கன் பெருமாளின் சிலையை பெயர்த்து எடுக்கின்றான். அதை தடுக்க முயல்கின்ற வைணவப் பார்ப்பனராகிய ரங்கராஜன் நம்பி (கமல்) சைவ மன்னனாலும் சைவர்களாலும் துன்புறுத்தப்பட்டு பெருமாளின் சிலையோடு சேர்த்து கடலில் வீசி சாகடிக்கப்படுகின்றார்.
அந்தக் காட்சி முழுவதும் சைவர்கள் வில்லன்களாகத்தான் சித்தரிக்கப்படுகிறார்கள். “கல்லை மட்டும் கண்டால்” பாடலின் வரிகளும் சைவத்தை தாழ்த்தியும், வைணவத்தியும் உயர்த்தியும்தான் எழுதப்பட்டிருக்கின்றன. “பெருமாள் புராணம்” அத்துடன் முடிந்து விடவில்லை. படம் முழுவதும் பெருமாள் வருகின்றார். கடைசியில் சுனாமி உருவாவதற்கு காரணமாக இருந்து சில இலட்சம் மக்களை கொன்று கோடிக் கணக்கான மக்களைக் காப்பாற்றுகின்றார்.
இந்த இடத்தில் ஒன்றைச் சொல்ல வேண்டும். தசாவதாரம் பற்றி புளுகாங்கிதப்பட்டு விமர்சிக்கும் பகுத்தறிவு நண்பர்களும் உண்டு. கமல் மதத்திற்கு, கடவுளுக்கு எதிராக வசனங்களைப் பேசுகின்றார், பெருமாள் சிலையை சுடுகாடு வரைக்கும் தூக்கிக் கொண்டு ஓடுகின்றார், அதை தூக்கி எறிந்து விளையாடுகின்றார், “கடவுள் இருந்தால் நல்லா இருக்குமே” என்று வசனம் பேசுகின்றார் என்றெல்லாம் தமக்கு சார்பான விடயங்கள் பற்றி எழுதியும் பேசியும் தசாவதாரம் பகுத்தறிவைப் பறைசாற்றும் ஒரு திரைப்படம் என்று அடித்துக் கூறுகிறார்கள்.
ஆனால் இவர்களின் விமர்சனத்தில் அடிப்படையிலேயே ஒரு தவறு இருப்பதாக நான் கருதுகிறேன். படத்தின் நாயகனின் கோணத்தில் இருந்து விமர்சனத்தை செய்யக் கூடாது. பார்வையாளனின் கோணத்தில் இருந்துதான் ஒரு படத்தை விமர்சிக்க வேண்டும்.
பெருமாள் சிலை தூக்கி எறியப்படுவதைப் பார்க்கின்ற அதே பார்வையாளன்தான், அந்தச் சிலை ஒவ்வொருமுறையும் நிமிர்ந்த நிலையில் கம்பீரமாக பரவசப்படுத்தும் பின்னணி இசையோடு தரையில் வந்தமர்வதையும் பார்க்கின்றான். அப்பாவிக் கோவிந்து (கமல்) “கடவுளுக்கு” பக்கத்தில் தான் நிற்பதை அறியாமல் “கடவுள் இருந்தால் நல்லா இருக்கும்” என்று வசனம் பேசுவதையும் பார்க்கின்றான்.
சுனாமி வந்தது பற்றி கமல் செய்யும் தர்க்கங்களை கேட்கும் கடவுள் நம்பிக்கையுள்ள பார்வையாளன் சுனாமி வந்ததற்கு காரணமான சில விடயங்களை படத்தில் கவனிக்கின்றான். கோடிக்கணக்கான மக்களை காப்பதற்கும், தான் மீண்டும் வெளியில் வருதற்கும் சுனாமியை பெருமாள் கொண்டு வருகின்றார். ஆயினும் சுனாமியில் இலட்சக் கணக்கில் மக்கள் இறக்கின்றனர். அதற்கும் பார்வையாளன் சில காரணங்களை படத்தில் காண்கின்றான். பெருமாளை கடலில் வீசியதால் ஏற்பட்ட பாவத்தாலும், பார்ப்பான் ஒருவனை துன்புறுத்தி பெருமாளோடு கட்டி கடலில் வீசியதால் ஏற்பட்ட பிரம்மஹத்தி தோசத்தாலும் இந்த அழிவு நேர்ந்தது என்பது அந்தப் பார்வையாளனுக்குப் புரிகிறது. புரியாது போய் விடுமோ என்ற அச்சத்தில் ரங்கராஜ நம்பியும் பூணுலை உயர்த்தி வசனம் வேறு பேசி வைக்கிறார்.
பெரும்பான்மையான பகுத்தறிவாளர்களை தன்னுடைய கோணத்திலும், பெரும்பான்மையான கடவுள் நம்பிக்கையாளர்களை பார்வையாளனின் கோணத்திலும் படத்தைப் பார்க்க வைப்பதில் கமல் கண்ட வெற்றிதான், இன்றைக்கு இந்தப் படம் இப்படித் தாறுமாறாக வசூலைக் குவித்துக் கொண்டிருக்கிறது.
பகுத்தறிவாளர்களை திருப்திப்படுத்தும் படத்தின் வசனங்களும் காட்சிகளும் இருக்கட்டும். கடவுளை நம்புபவர்களின் மனதில் கமல் பெருமாளை பதிய வைத்து விட்டார். அதுதான் இங்கு கவனிக்கப்பட வேண்டிய விடயம். வெளிப்படையாகவே வைணவத்திற்கு போட்டியான சைவத்துடன் மோதி, கிளைமாக்ஸில் வைணவம் வெற்றி பெறுகிறது.
பாபர் மசூதி பிரச்சனைக்குப் பிறகு அதிகரித்த அளவில் வைணவம் சார்ந்த கடவுள்களை முன்னிறுத்தி நடத்தப்பட்டு வரும் பல்வேறு விதமான பரப்புரைகளுக்கு சினிமாவும் ஒரு கருவியாகப் பயன்படுத்தப்படுகின்ற நிலையில், அதற்கு கமலும் தன்னுடைய தசாவதாரம் திரைப்படம் மூலம் துணை போய்விட்டார்.
தொடரும்..
- வி.சபேசன்
The Origin of Virudhunagar District
The District was created on 15/03/1985 by carving out portion from Ramanadapuram district viz. Ramanadapuram, Virudhunagar & Sivaganga. Virudhunagar (Formally called by Virudhu patti) is the district headquarters.The first District collector was Sh.L.N.Vijayaraghavan IAS.
Physiographically the district consists of two distinct regions. The eastern slopes of the Western Ghats with an average elevation of 1500m and black soil plains to the east of the district.
VIRUDHUNAGAR town is the head quarters of the district of the same name. Located on the National Highway 47 from Madurai to Kanyakumari, this town was called “Virdhukkalvetti” during the British times. According to the local legend, around 400 years ago, a warrior, who was a in possession of a number of flags in token of having conquered many others, challenged the residents of this town. A resident accepted the challenge and in the ensuing fight, killed the warrior and seized the flags. From then onwards the town was known as Virudhukkalvetti. Virudhukkal means banners. This was changed to Virudhupatti in 1875. On 6th April 1923 the council named the town Virudhunagar. Its history as an important trading town goes back to the British times when merchandise from Virudhunagar was exported overseas through the ports of Kulasekarapattinam, Tuticorin, Vaippar, Devipattinam. etc.This town is the birth place of Shri.K.Kamaraj a freedom fighter and Ex-CM of Tamil nadu
This District gave birth to two Ex-CM's of TamilNadu namely ,Shri P.S.Kumarasamy Raja (7-4-1949 to 16-3-1952) Ex -CM of Chennai Provincy , Orissa Governor and Shri K.Kamaraj(13-4-1954 to 2-10-1963)
History and evolution of Town names
ARUPPUKOTTAI
Aruppukottai is said that this place was abundant in Jasmine buds and hence called Arumbukottai. Arumbu in Tamil means buds of garden plant bearing fragrant flowers and kottai means fort (Virappa Nayaka (1572-1692) who ruled over Madurai kingdom constructed a fort at Aruppukkottai) Aruppukkottai is corruption of Arumbukottai. This place was originally said to be known as “Thiru Nallur”. Aruppukottai is inhabited by weavers and this place is famous for handloom textiles.
KARIAPATTI
It is said that one Kathiyar Moopanar first settled here and a village grew around him. The place was then called as kathiapatty meaning village of Kathia ( Moopanar ). In due course it came to be known as Kariapatty. Kariapatty is a corruption of Kathiapatty.
RAJAPALAYAM
Rajapalayam is derived from the word ‘Raja’s Tamil synonym for Raju and Palayam in Tamil means ‘ a Cantonment or Fort ‘. Thus Rajapalayam means Rajus’ Fort. Rajapalayam is inhabited chiefly by people who came from the old Vijayanagaram State.
This town is famous for dogs of a special variety, highly useful for hunting. But this variety of dogs are now becoming extinct as they do not thrive in other parts of the country. This place is also famous for mangoes. Rajapalayam is also a growing industrial town. There are no. of spinning mills, Power loom factories, waste cotton plants & ginning factories. Rajapalayam is having a big share in Indian Surgical cotton manufacturing.
SATTUR
The name Sattur is said to be a corruption of Sathanur. The place was formerly a forest and there was a Sathan temple in it. Sathan temple is also known as a Ayyanar temple. A small village sprang near the temple and it came to be called as Sathanur after Sathan. In process of time it turned out to be Sattur. Sattur is an industrial town. There are match factories in the town and also famous for nib factories. Large wholesale business is transacted in chillies, black gram and coriander. The fountain pen industries, once a prominent industries of this place now becoming extinct as the arrival of ballpens
SIVAKASI
The name Sivakasi is found in a stone inscription in the temple at Tenkasi. It is stated that Arikesari Parakrama Pandiyan (1420-1462) constructed a temple at Tenkasi and went to Banares for fetching a Lingam for installation at Tenkasi. On his return he was unavoidably detained at Sivakasi which was a forest then. At the approach of the auspicious hour he installed the Lingam and constructed a temple at this place. The place takes its name from this incident. Sivakasi is an important industrial town. It is famous for lithographic and offset printing, match and fireworks industries.
SRIVILLIPUTUR
Srivilliputtur is drived from Sri ( Sanskrit – Holy) Villi (Tamil- bowman) Puthu ( Tamil – New ) and Ur (Tamil – place) means Holy bowman new town. Orgin is traced to a legend which has that two saints were born here on account of a curse as brother hunters by name Villi & Kandan. One day Kandan was killed by a tiger in a hunt, Villi not knowing this went in search of him and while asleep after a tiresome day, he was informed in his dream by God the fate of his brother and was directed to build a town on this spot. A new town sprang up and it was known after the hunter as Villiputhur and since Andal was born here, it came to be Srivilliputhur. This place is also known as “Nachiyar Koil” meaning maiden temple referring to Andal.
Srivilliputtur has been a center of religious learning. The epic Mahabharatham was rendered in poetic verses by Sarva Bhava Iyyengar known popularly as villiputhurar. Peria Alwar and Andal the famous Vaishnavite hymnists belonged to Srivilliputtur.
TIRUCHULI
At the end of Dwaparayuga a deluge occurred and the town was in danger of being drowned by flood, the king prayed God for protection, in response his prayer, the God made a circular hole in the earth ‘with his Sulam’ the trident of Siva and made all the water to sink through the hole and thus saved the town. Hence forth the place was called Tiruchuli . The gaint Sri. Ramana Maharishi was born in Tiruchuli
Virudhunagar -
Virudhunagar is a major business town and it is the capital of Virudhunagar District located at a distance of 45 Kms South-West of Madurai. This place was once referred to as 'Virudhupatti'.
In the beginning of 20th century A.D., Virudhupatti was one among the six important places of Ramanathapuram District. Due to the rapid growth in the field of Trade and Education, it was renamed as 'Virudhunagar' on 29th October 1923. The term 'Virudhu' means 'Award' in Tamil. Efficient Chief Minister (1954-63) and King Maker - Karma Veerar Kamarajar belongs to this town.It has very high end construction industry with low cost.
Sivakasi, a town famous for fireworks and printing press, match boxes is about 27 kilometers from Virudhunagar.
The great saint Ramana Maharshi was born in Tiruchuli, a place near Virudhunagar.
Apart from business, Virudhunagar is famous for its hotels & food delicacy, especially "Parotta/Parota/Purota/Paratha" There are many Hotels which serve delicious food. "Burma Kadai" is one of the best hotels. Lunch and the evening Parotta are very famous in hotels of Virudhunagar. You must see the way how "Virudhunagar Parotta" is prepared. It is quite different and it tastes the best. Nowadays health conscious people are avoiding frequent visit to these shops to prevent heart related ailments attacking young people.
“Mariamman Kovil”, Veghilugandha amman kovil are famous temples in Virudhunagar.
Every year during the Tamil month of “Panguni”, the famous “Panguni Thiruvizha” festival is celebrated in a special "annual Agni Thiruvizha" with several hundred thousands devotees taking up Fire Pot Procession as way of respect to Goddess Mariamman. Relatives and friends gather together during the processions for Water Deluge of Goddess Mariamman, Black and White dot smeared body adorned with neem leaves camaflouge dressing, Kairu Kutthu, Agni Chatti carrying by devotees plain palm and Temple Car (Theerottam) functions and they go around the town.
A big festival is organised for Veghilugandha amman during Tamil month Vaikasi. In the month of October to welcome the onset of monsoon, festivals are organised for Mother Goddess Kaliamman at various localities on every Tuesday and Wednesday nights. Karagam, Kolattam, Oyilattam and other lively programmes are organised on large scale at different streets during these weekly events in during September-October
“Virudhunagar Exhibition” conducted in the Kshathiriya Vidhya Sala School premises for the benefit of schools' educational fund during summer holidays attracts many people from the nearby towns and village. The exhibition also serves as a unique family convention centre for matrimonial match making arrangement facility for the aspiring grooms and brides.
During Dusserah celebration, a large procession with Tiger Dance and Tamil Martial art fencing is organised by several locality groups of Virudhunagar town. To participate and witness in this festival, nearly one lakh people assemble in one evening.
The other unique tradition about Virudhunagar is that, for the marriage function, the grooms offer prizes (parisam) to bride as per Tamil culture (saying no to varadhachanai), the bride and the groom will have a separate function/marriage hall so that the groom's family members do not pass to bride's family members any burden financial or otherwise any burden, Which you can't see anywhere in Tamilnadu. Several marriage functions are organised with the system emenating from Self-Respect Movement to adopt "Kural Vazhi Vaalvu" by the new couples and still this novel solemnising approach is widely accepted by youngsters of the Virudhunagar town.
Virudhunagar has one "theppam" (artificial pond to replenish ground water) in the center of the town. Now facilities have been done to maintain water in "theppam" through out the year. Around the theppam lots of parota hotels available.
People here are sports loving. There are indoor stadiums for badminton, many basketball and tennis courts. Children here are very talented but participation in tournaments outside is still less. Y's Men's Club of Virudhunagar is conducting Basketball Tournament for the past 20 years.
There are many yoga ,music, art classes .people liked to swim in wells in summer before now swimming pools are the most preferred.
There is a beautiful park on the college road with beautiful illuminations at night. There are several garden temples for kaval deivangal (guardian angels) in Aruppukottai Road, Sattur Road, Madurai Road and in chinnamoopanpatti village on the northern suburb of Virudhunagar. Festivals are celebrated during January, February in these garden temples in grand manner.
Education
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS in Virudhunagar
1. VHNSN College: http://www.vhnsnc.in/
2. VVV College: http://www.vanniaperumalcollegeforwomen.com/
3. VSVN Polytechnic: http://www.vsvnpolytechnic.in
4. Kamaraj College of Engineering and Technology: http://www.kcet.in/
5. CREED Industrial School-Govt. approved Catering & Hotel Management, Fashion Technology Courses
Engineering Colleges in Virudhunagar district
1. Kamaraj College of Engineering and Technology: http://www.kcet.in/
2. MEPCO Schlenk Engineering College (MSEC): http://www.mepcoeng.ac.in/
3. Arulmigu Kalasalingam College of Engineering: http://www.akce.ac.in/
4. P.S.R Engineering College
5. Sethu Institute of Technology: http://www.sethu.ac.in/
6. Sree Sowdambika College of Engineering
7. V.P. Muthaiah Pillai Meenakshi Engineering College for Women
SCHOOLS
1. S.S. Subbiah Nadar Government Hr Sec School
2. R.C. HR. SEC. SCHOOL mail to rchssvnr@yahoo.co.in: http://www.rchssvnr.edu/
3. K. Kamaraj Vidhya Sala Middle School
4. KVS (Kshatriya Vidhya Sala) Hr Sec School - Madurai Road
5. KVS Mat Hr Sec School - Soolakarai(k.v.s):http://www.kvsmat.in/
6. P.S.Chidambara Nadar Senior English School (PSC): http://www.pscschool.com/
7. Kshatriya Girls Hr Sec School
8. SDA Mat hr Sec School
9. Subiramaniya Vidhyasalai
10. Saraswathi Vidhyasalai
11. Thiruvalluvar Vidhyasalai
12. Dhamu Memorial Matriculation Secondary School
13. KKVS
14. H.P.S.M. Hr. Sec. School
15. Sri Sowdambigai higher Sec School
16. Noble Matriculation school
Websites
1. Website for Virudhunagar - http://www.virudhunagar.in/ , http://www.virudhunagar.info/
2. Government Website - http://virudhunagar.nic.in/
3. Website for Virudhunagar Hindu Nadar Devasthanam - http://www.vhnd.in/
4. Website of VHNSN College - http://www.vhnsnc.in/
5. Website of KVS Matriculation School - http://www.kvsmat.in/
6. Website of PSC School - http://www.pscschool.com/
7. Website of KVS 98 batch - http://kvs98.virudhunagar.in/
Culture
Unique `Mahamai' practice
The desire to progress and the unity of purpose in action without jealousy get best exemplified in the conduct of traders of Virudhunagar, the majority of whom belong to the Nadar community.
As traders during the British regime they felt the need to learn English for their business purpose and started a primary school in the town in 1889 and the expenditure was met through the collection of a handful of rice from every house.
The growth of the school and the increased expenditure were met through the financial contributions from the community. This gave rise to the evolution of a practice called `Mahamai' since 1900, by which, the community traders were required to set apart daily a stipulated amount as per the trade practised. This was collected daily and utilized for the public good of the community. The practice is still in vogue effectively and successfully.
The traders take pride in informing that most of the schools, temples, marriage halls etc. built in the town belong to the community as a whole and to no single individual. They claim that trade and mahamai are the two eyes of Virudhunagar.
There is an anecdote: When C.Rajagopalachari, as Chief Minister visited the town during the British regime to inaugurate the municipality's water supply scheme, he learnt about the `scheme of handful rice for public cause' giving an impetus to education in the town. He is said to have wondered as to how good it would be for all the traders in the state to contribute for the public good.
This resulted in the introduction of `sales tax' in 1937 to make good the revenue loss in lieu of the introduction of prohibition in the state then, the traders say.
Virudhunagar has been exemplary in community self-help, in that, it paved the way for rainwater harvesting long before, it is claimed.
The tank in the town has been so modelled to collect the rainwater during the season and it has never dried up over the years, they point out.
Theatres
1. Amirtharaj
2. Apsara
3. Rajalakshmi
4. Sriram
Temples
1. Sri Siva Temple
2. Sri AdiParasakthi Maariyaman Temple
3. Sri Veiluganda Amman Temple
4. Valasubramaniya Murugan Temple
5. Sri Renganathar Temple
6. Sri Rama Temple
Hangouts
-
Holy Places:
Thiruppugal Swami - Muthia Nadar of Kattunayakkanpatti, Kovilpatti Taluq who settled in Virudhunagar 2 centuries having worship centres at Virudhunagar and Kattunayakkanpatti is believed to have blessed the town for all around welfare town. It is believed that the famous tamil chants Aaho Aiyaho during Amman temples are introduced by Thiruppughal swami.
தசாவதாரம் - என் பார்வையில்
படங்களுக்கு சென்று கதை புரியாமல் வந்த கொடுமை உண்டு ஆனால் கதை கவனிக்காமல் வந்த கதை தெரியுமா உங்களுக்கு ? இரண்டு வாரங்களுக்கு முன்னால் தசாவதாரம் பார்த்த பொழுது கமலின் பத்து வேடங்கள்தான் நினைவில் நின்றன. கமலின் சிரத்தை கதை மட்டும் இல்லது திரைகதையிலும் நன்றாகவே தெரிந்தது.
பத்து பத்திரங்கள் இருந்தும் அமெரிக்க வில்லன் பிலேட்சேர் மற்றும் ரெங்கராஜ நம்பியை தவிர்த்து மற்றவர்கள் மனதில் நிற்க மறுக்கிறார்கள். கிருஷ்ணவேணி பாட்டி , ஜப்பானிய குங்பு வீரர், முசல்மான் கபிபுள்ள இவர்கள் காட்சிகளில் உள்ள காலி இடங்களை நிரப்பவே பயன்படிருகிறார்கள் . வின்சென்ட் பாத்திரத்தின் மூலம் குமரி மக்களின் யதார்த்தத்தினை பதிவு செய்திருக்கும் கமலுக்கு ஒரு தனி salute .
12- ஆம் நூற்றாண்டில் தொடங்கும் படத்தில் எப்படி சிவனுக்கும் விஷ்ணுவுக்கும் சண்டை வளர்கிறதோ அந்த நூலினை அழகாக 20- ஆம் நூற்றாண்டிலும் கொண்டுவந்திருப்பது ரசிக வைத்தது. அது மட்டும் இல்லது, சின்ன சின்ன விஷயங்கள் கமல் காப்பாற் பொது வைணவ சின்னம் பொருந்திய வாகனத்தில் வருவது, ஓடி தபிக்க நினைக்கும் பொழுது சிவ முத்திரை பொருந்திய வாகனங்கள் துரத்துவது என நிரைய சுவாரசியங்களை தந்திருக்கிறார்கள்.
படம் நன்றாகவே இருந்தது. அந்த பிரம்மண்டதிருகவது ஒரு முறை போய் பாருங்கள்.
Madurai Egg Kothu Parotta
You might have guessed it right. Kothu parotta is my next post. With parottas and chalna in hand what better dish can I think of? So, here you go ...the recipe of my all time favorite.
tasted my first Kothu Parotta this week. Before I go on about whether I liked it or not, let me give you a little background. Growing up in Canada, I never really had much of a chance to taste Indian street food. Though Toronto is one of the most multicultural places in the world today, the social climate 30 years ago was drastically different. It was in the small suburban, town of Oakville that my parents tried to Indian-ize their two young daughters. My father would grill us with questions like, "If someone asked you where you are from, what will you say?". The happy response from us would be "Canada, of course. We are Canadians!". My Father tried so hard to change that answer to India. It should be noted that in over 30 years of living in Canada, and hating many of the changes to his beloved Madras, my Father now proudly identifies himself as a Canadian.
My parents worked diligently to establish an Indian identity for their children in that foreign land filled with snow. I marvel at how they toiled to maintain the Tamil Brahmin traditions so far away from their home. My parents both worked, they did not have anyone living with them to help out, there were no Indian grocery stores near by, and no temples except of course the Pittsburgh Sri Venkateswara Temple. My mother tells us of the one Indian grocery store that used to open for a few hours on Saturday morning, and if you missed the window there would be no daal for the week. She recounts fond memories of going to Indian movies which were screened a few times a year and eating samosas they served there which you couldn't get anywhere else. You can see how much things have changed when I tell you that some convenience stores in Toronto now stock samosas, next door to the latest crop of 'plaza temples'! While we were growing up Savithri and I mainly enjoyed eating homemade bujji's, pakodas, and samosas. Eating channa bhatura and punjabi samosas at the Indian Bazaar on Gerrard St. during Deepavali or other festivals was a big treat for us. Experiencing street food in India was out of the question as our trips to visit grandparents were mostly spent with upset stomachs. My mothers remedy for that included eating only home cooked food, and drinking boiled water.
Now that I am married and thinking about how my future family will be two generations away from India, I deeply value the glimpses my parents gave us into that wonderful world of their homeland and wonder if I will be able to live up to their ideals. My parents have now lived in Canada longer than they lived in India, and yet they are still pillars of the Tamil Brahmin community to whom other immigrant Indian families look to for direction on how to survive amidst the snow.
Alright, back to the Kothu Parotta a famous Indian dish best eaten at a street-side stall. They are made with shredded flaky, buttery roti's called parotta's that are cooked with a medley of chillies, onions, tomatoes, and flavored with rich masala powders. It makes me happy that I am Married to a Desi who is now my direct connection to the motherland. Instead of just listening to my Dad expounding on the importance of the Lalitha Sahasranamam or learning Carnatic Music and Bharatha Natyam, my world is now filled with learning about authentic (and street) food, Tamil film music (mostly A.R Rahman), language (especially Tamil slang), and visiting my second set of parents in Madras. India is once again a whole new world for me, and would you believe it if I told you that I can sum it up in a Kothu Parotta? That's how good it tasted.
Ingredients:
cooked parotta- 3
onion- 1
ginger garlic paste- 1tsp
tomato-1
green chillies-3
turmeric- 1/4 tsp
curry leaves
eggs-2
chalna- 1 cup
Procedure:
Heat oil in kadai and fry pattai and cloves. Then add onions, ginger garlic paste, chillies,turmeric & curry leaves.When the onion gets cooked add tomato. saute for sometime. Then add parotta and fry for a minute. Now add eggs,salt and pepper. Blend everything together. When the egg is almost done add chalna and break eveything into small pieces using two spatulas. Check for seasonings. Finally add corriander leaves.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Kodaikanal - Overview
Kodaikanal is a place where every range of people love to visit.It relaxes our mind and helps us to be in peace.it creates a atmosphere to forget our sorrows and to admire the natures beauty.Kodaikanal (also known as Kodai) is a hill station on the southern tip of the upper Palani Hills in Dindigul District of the state of Tamil Nadu in southern India. There 32,931 inhabitants in Kodai (according to the 2001 census) on 21.45 km². The STD-code is +04542, the ISD-code +91. The languages spoken in Kodai are Tamil and English. The best time for traveling is April to June and September to October; however, the town can be visited throughout the year. The temperature is quite constant during the year: around 20°C in summer and 17°C in winter. On summer evenings you should wear light woolens, in the winter heavy ones. The average rainfall is 1650 mm. Kodaikanal is located at a latitude of 10°7' N to 10°20' N and a longitude of 77°16' E to 77°45' E. Kodaikanal is situated at an altitude of about 2,133 m. Kodaikanal is a popular tourist destination, having many Kodaikanal is the crown Jewel of mother Nature and the pride of South India. Kodaikanal nestles in the lush surroundings of the Western Ghats. In Kodaikanal the rolling hills with its lush green trees and flowers of rainbow hues, the pure mountain air with a hint of pine, and the babbling brooks are a feast for all your aesthetic senses. Kodaikanal one of Indias most beautiful hill station is endowed with 29 resorts / Hotels. each resort is enriched with amenties to delight you. Kodaikanal is nature's heavenly gift to earth a blissful blend of pristine beauty. One of a kind vacation land that greets you with surprices at Kodaikanal. Here you can find that every corner is discovered by God's gracefulness. And among the 29 resorts/hotels many resorts are nestled with beautiful hills and falls surrounding it. Staying in these types of resorts will flash in your inward eyes to open. kodaikanal is a popular tourist destination having many natural attractions such as
* Coaker's walk
* Green valley view
* Lake view
* Science museum
* pillar rock
* Gunna cave
* kurunji Andavar kovil
* Chettiar park
* Bryant park
* Silver cascade
* Silent vally view
BRYANT PARK
Any hill-station is incomplete without a botanical garden and that is exactly what Bryant Park is. The garden is a magnificent sight when the flowers bloom in brilliant shades of purple, red, orange, yellow, pink, white, blue petals, complimenting the lush green.
PILLAR ROCK
Another popular sight is the Pillar Rocks, so called because of three boulders, which are naturally arranged to resemble three majestic pillars. Sometimes pillar rocks are not visible to our eyes due to mist.They trigger an aura of dominance and power around themselves. The chamber between two pillars is called the Devil’s Kitchen.
COAKERS WALK
Coakers Walk gives us a pleasant walk with the wavering trees, dancing flowers, wrissling rain drops, gentle breeze, sweet fruits etc.It is a hill-edged, kilometre-long boulevard that exhibits a panoramic wide-angle view of Dolphin’s Nose, Pambar River, a bird’s eye view of Periyakulam and also Madurai city.
KURINJI ANDAVAR TEMPLE
Kurinji Andavar Temple is an abode of Lord Murugan. It is so named after the Kurinji flower which blossoms once in twelve years.
GREEN VALLEY VIEW
The Green Valley-View or Suicide Point gives a view of deep green valleys. Vendors trying to sell clothes, spices, accessories, showpieces and antiques dot the area.
BERIJAM LAKE
At Berijam Lake you can sit peacefully in the woods besides the lake and try your hand at catching a few fish. It is a neatly maintained area, which is probably because it is not open to the public. You have to get a special permit to visit the lake.
SILVER CASCADE
There is a falls named as silver cascade because the water falls looks like silver which is very clear.it keeps us still more chill and enjoyable.
KODAI LAKE
Lake is the important place at kodai. It is here where people like to spend hours together. They enjoy boating, horse riding, riding cycle, walking around the lake. There are a lot of stalls for coffee, tea , fruits , dresses, chocolates, ice creams etc around the lake. Couples are found ofen here to enjoy the beauty of nature. Apart from the 21.5 sq. kilometers of the Kodaikanal hill-station, there are other places nearby which are worth visiting. Many of these are small villages. One such village is Poombarai. The 40 kilometer drive from Kodaikanal to Poombarai is extremely picturesque. From Poombarai one can walk up to the Kukkal caves, which are actually overhanging slabs of rock. If you are lucky, you may get to see some bison. It is also a excellent place for shopping. We can get varities of medicinal products like Eucalyptus oil, Garam masala items, artificial flowers, chocolates, varity of fresh fruits and vegetables etc. There is no dearth of accommodation in Kodaikanal and you can choose from a range of five star hotels, resorts, lodges and inns. The climate can be enjoyed throughout the year, though May and June can get really crowded with visitors flocking to take the blessings of Sri Sathya Sai Baba at Sai Sruthi. Whether you are planning a family holiday retreat, honeymooning with your sweetheart or trekking in the pinewoods, kodai promises to be rewarding. The warmth of the sun, whisper of the wind, rustle of the trees, deafening silence makes you to feel as in paradise. The town’s attractions and beauty can be enjoyed in a week or a weekend and you could even go up in the morning and return by night. Do not leave without sampling some of the sweeter pleasures like the strawberries, plums, pears, cherries, butter-fruit, jamuns, apples, peaches and Malai Pazham, a variety of banana exclusively available in Kodaikanal. Pastry Corner is a nice place for a hot cup of coffee, natural ice creams and delicious cookies and pastries. Mesmerising natural beauty and a host of sights and attractions contribute to Kodaikanal’s magneticism, making this hill town a hotspot for nature lovers and other vacationers. Exotic sights, striking natural wonders, the luxury of solitude and serenity all makes " Kodai " in its true splendour. The lush green hill side, the magic beauty of clouds throwing their arms to embrace the hill tops, mild breeze carrying the scent of wild flowers makes Kodaikanal [Hill station] so exciting, so diverse you will make you visit again and again and admire Kodaikanal's beauty.
* Coaker's walk
* Green valley view
* Lake view
* Science museum
* pillar rock
* Gunna cave
* kurunji Andavar kovil
* Chettiar park
* Bryant park
* Silver cascade
* Silent vally view
BRYANT PARK
Any hill-station is incomplete without a botanical garden and that is exactly what Bryant Park is. The garden is a magnificent sight when the flowers bloom in brilliant shades of purple, red, orange, yellow, pink, white, blue petals, complimenting the lush green.
PILLAR ROCK
Another popular sight is the Pillar Rocks, so called because of three boulders, which are naturally arranged to resemble three majestic pillars. Sometimes pillar rocks are not visible to our eyes due to mist.They trigger an aura of dominance and power around themselves. The chamber between two pillars is called the Devil’s Kitchen.
COAKERS WALK
Coakers Walk gives us a pleasant walk with the wavering trees, dancing flowers, wrissling rain drops, gentle breeze, sweet fruits etc.It is a hill-edged, kilometre-long boulevard that exhibits a panoramic wide-angle view of Dolphin’s Nose, Pambar River, a bird’s eye view of Periyakulam and also Madurai city.
KURINJI ANDAVAR TEMPLE
Kurinji Andavar Temple is an abode of Lord Murugan. It is so named after the Kurinji flower which blossoms once in twelve years.
GREEN VALLEY VIEW
The Green Valley-View or Suicide Point gives a view of deep green valleys. Vendors trying to sell clothes, spices, accessories, showpieces and antiques dot the area.
BERIJAM LAKE
At Berijam Lake you can sit peacefully in the woods besides the lake and try your hand at catching a few fish. It is a neatly maintained area, which is probably because it is not open to the public. You have to get a special permit to visit the lake.
SILVER CASCADE
There is a falls named as silver cascade because the water falls looks like silver which is very clear.it keeps us still more chill and enjoyable.
KODAI LAKE
Lake is the important place at kodai. It is here where people like to spend hours together. They enjoy boating, horse riding, riding cycle, walking around the lake. There are a lot of stalls for coffee, tea , fruits , dresses, chocolates, ice creams etc around the lake. Couples are found ofen here to enjoy the beauty of nature. Apart from the 21.5 sq. kilometers of the Kodaikanal hill-station, there are other places nearby which are worth visiting. Many of these are small villages. One such village is Poombarai. The 40 kilometer drive from Kodaikanal to Poombarai is extremely picturesque. From Poombarai one can walk up to the Kukkal caves, which are actually overhanging slabs of rock. If you are lucky, you may get to see some bison. It is also a excellent place for shopping. We can get varities of medicinal products like Eucalyptus oil, Garam masala items, artificial flowers, chocolates, varity of fresh fruits and vegetables etc. There is no dearth of accommodation in Kodaikanal and you can choose from a range of five star hotels, resorts, lodges and inns. The climate can be enjoyed throughout the year, though May and June can get really crowded with visitors flocking to take the blessings of Sri Sathya Sai Baba at Sai Sruthi. Whether you are planning a family holiday retreat, honeymooning with your sweetheart or trekking in the pinewoods, kodai promises to be rewarding. The warmth of the sun, whisper of the wind, rustle of the trees, deafening silence makes you to feel as in paradise. The town’s attractions and beauty can be enjoyed in a week or a weekend and you could even go up in the morning and return by night. Do not leave without sampling some of the sweeter pleasures like the strawberries, plums, pears, cherries, butter-fruit, jamuns, apples, peaches and Malai Pazham, a variety of banana exclusively available in Kodaikanal. Pastry Corner is a nice place for a hot cup of coffee, natural ice creams and delicious cookies and pastries. Mesmerising natural beauty and a host of sights and attractions contribute to Kodaikanal’s magneticism, making this hill town a hotspot for nature lovers and other vacationers. Exotic sights, striking natural wonders, the luxury of solitude and serenity all makes " Kodai " in its true splendour. The lush green hill side, the magic beauty of clouds throwing their arms to embrace the hill tops, mild breeze carrying the scent of wild flowers makes Kodaikanal [Hill station] so exciting, so diverse you will make you visit again and again and admire Kodaikanal's beauty.
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