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Monday, October 25, 2010

Madhurai Rameshwaram Trip

Me with my friend Satya and two of his colleagues Amit & Yogesh started on 22rd Oct night 9:30 bus from Madiwala(Bangalore) to Madhurai.



It was 23rd Oct Morning, woke up at 6 AM then the bus was at Dindigul which is 67kms far from Madhurai, so started playing venkateswara suprabhatham followed by vishnu sahasranaamam in my phone as it was a Saturday and enjoying the journey to Madhurai.

We reached Periyar Bus Station Madhurai at 7:30 AM and took a room at Hotel Sethu which is very near to the Meenakshi Amman Temple for getting ready to goto Rameshwaram. Chella Pandi is the cab person we booked by the reference of my friend Vijay came on time around 8:30 AM.

We had our breakfast at Murugan Idly a very famous restaurant in Tamil Nadu and started to Rameshwaram around 9:30 AM, On the way to Rameshwaram we were passed from some important districts of Tamil Nadu like Siva Ganga, Ramanathapuram where famous people like Kamal Haasan, Vadivelu and P.Chidambaram were born.

Around 20 kms before Rameshwaram we were passed through a Bridge to The Pamban Island where actually The Rameswaram is situated and from the Bridge the view towards the sea, a village near by and also a Railway bridge parallel to the roadway bridge which can be separated when big ships comes on that lane are amazing to see.



We reached Rameshwaram by 1 PM but, at the that time the main temple will be closed so, we went to Dhanushkodi which was a bigger town than Rameshwaram on the Pamban Island but, after the Tsunami 2004 it was left out with a small area. The Color of the sea is blue mixed green and the sand around it also in the color nearer to white.




We took some nice photographs over there and started back to Rameshwaram, Around 2:30 PM we reached Rameshwaram and had our Lunch at Ganesh Mess which is opposite to the west Gopuram of the Rameshwaram Temple. After having Lunch went to Sri Ramvari Padam temple which is approximately 2 Kms from the Main Temple.



As the name says Lord Rama came to his place and watched Lanka Island which is very near to this place (Around 18 kms). Now also we can have a look at the Sri Lankan lights at night from here. In this temple We met a just married couple came from France and their names are Joe and Julie, They were in a discussion with some Indian girls who are explaining something to them, later we went and asked what was that discussion regarding? They told that Julie is interested in wearing anklets and Joe gifted her a pair and she is wearing them, everyone is staring at her as if she has done something odd and the girls explained them like it is only for Hindus, and not for any other religions. We said that what they told is a bullshit and its just a women ornament. We took couple of snaps with them and started back to the Main Temple.



We reached the main temple at 4 PM and before going to the main temple, we have went to the sea shore opposite to the temple and cleaned our foot and palms there, after that we visited the temple. Temple was very old and very nice in terms of architecture, It is known as Southern Kaasi Of India. Took some photos to the 1000 Pillar Coridor which is surrounded by the temple.





After this we visited Hanuman Temple where we can find the stones used to build Ramsethu which will be floating on the surface of the water without sinking.

Came Back to Madhurai and rested for a while, Later went to Hotel Vasantham near by Periyar Bus Station in-order to have our dinner. After dinner came to the Hotel Sethu and had our sleep.

It was 24th Oct 5:45 AM, i woke up and was waiting for my alarm to ring which was set on to ring at 6 AM. By 7 AM everyone was ready, me and Satya planned to go to the temple in a typical tamilian getup and went to a near by tea stall to have coffee. Around 7:30 AM we were at the temple premises which is a 5 minutes walk from the Hotel which we resided.



As We entered into the temple premises, An Elephant welcomed us. We kept our chappals at a stall where we purchased the pooja items. Entered into one of the Biggest Temples in India and were spell bounded by seeing the architecture, art, paintings..etc.









We took some pictures of the architecture of the temple and later entered into the main temple where photography is prohibited and took special darsanam tickets and got the Darshanam of The Madhurai Meenaxi Amman within 15 minutes.Later went to the Siva Temple for "ayyavari" darsanam. Coming out of the Shiva temple we found many big sculptures in and around a big hall. After passing this hall we found an Elephant which blesses all the pilgrims. We took many snaps over here with elephant, three americans came to visit Madhurai and also to the external architecture of the temple and the mind blowing Gopuram's.







Around 9:30 AM had our breakfast at Hotel Modern located opposite to the temple street, and later went to the Hotel back to change our clothes, back to normal casuals and hired a seven seater auto to cover famous places in Madhurai. On the part of this we covered Murugan Temple, Alwar Raj Museum, Mariyamman Temple and the Tank in front of this temple.After this had our lunch at Vasantham hotel again and back to the Hotel Sethu to rest for a while around 2 PM.







Had a nap till 4 PM, me and satya planned to visit the temple again. We were there in the temple at 5:30 PM but the temple was so rush, this time the queue for special darshanam is also very long. We were discussing outside on what to do, a person from the trust came to us and took us to the Sheegra Darshanam section by charging Rs100 per head, but there we were very close to the Devi Idol had our darshanam more than 20 minutes, felt very happy and also visited the rest of the temple includuing Lord Siva, Ganesh, Murugan, Dhakshinamurthy, Kala Bhairava...etc.

Around 6:30 PM we completed everything in the temple and later visited surrounding streets in Madhurai came back to the Hotel Sethu and Started Back to the Return Trip to Bangalore around 8PM.

Friday, August 6, 2010

Creativity is what cannot be teached in the Institutions...


A thought which provokes us to do a thing individually and implements it successfully is Creativity. Today in our world there are many teaching institutions where people are trained on creative jobs, for Eg: Web Designing, Painting, Music, Photography..etc. But, the actual thing is they only teach you the way how to go forward..Finally, The Designer should design what the client is required. and the painter should paint individually what comes in his mind to draw. I have seen many people who can draw paintings without any guidance and people who compose songs without learning the basics of the music. That is what is creativity...which comes from our birth and will be there until our death. In Film Making there are some artists who will draw the basic designs of the graphics work which needs to be done for the film, a director narrates the scene that he wants something like this and that, accordingly the artist will give a good design. In our software field also people we see who spend their time infront of the computer doing code and developing something or the other. There are people who manage by learning something which dont have the ability or skill to do that also, Their work will be no where compared to a person who actually does the thing with creativity.

Sunday, July 18, 2010

Madharasapattinam Review

Starring: Arya, Amy Jackson, Nasser, VMC.Haneefa, M. S. Bhaskar, Cochin Haneefa.
Direction: A L Vijay
Music: G V Prakash Kumar

Production: Kalapathi S. Aghoram

Release Date: 09-07-2010


Plot: The story starts with the death of an old english ladies husband at london, she becomes unconscious after his funeral. Doctors recommends her to undergo a surgery to her brain within a span of a week but, the chances are half to save her. That was due  a major injury at her head in the past. She demands her grand children to take her to India to visit Madharasapattinam. Here the story starts with a flashback in 1945. Why she wanted to go to Madharasapattinam and What has happend in the past makes rest of the story.



Performances: Arya's performance is too good as a typical Madras youth whose job is to wash the clothes and is a very good "kushthi" player.

Nasser acted well as the father of Arya. 

Amy Jackson makes a debut with her outstanding performance, she is cute, beautiful and also suits well her role.

Cochin Haneefa rocked his performance as a translator for British people.



Technical Departments: Director Vijay has done his job perfectly and he is  successful in showing Chennai at Britishers time and also taking couple of very good love scenes which are  not coming in movies these days. Even though there are some shades of Titanic and Lagaan are there Vijay took care to make this a unique flick. Photography and VFX are like Visual Treat. Music and Background Score By G.V.Prakash Kumar is outstanding. My Favorite Tracks in the movie are "Vamma Dorai Amma", "Pookal" and "Meghame".


Favorite Scenes: 

1. Old Madras Scenes are too good.

2. Hero's Reaction when British People Announces Independence Day.

3. Death of Villain falling from the Clock Tower.

4. Heroine leaves Hero in-order to save him under a bridge.

5. Climax The old lady founds Hero.


My Rating: 3.75/5


Friday, June 18, 2010

Raavan Review

Raavan is not Modern Ramayana

Film: Raavan (Hindi)
Banner:
Madras Talkies
Cast: Abhishek Bachchan, Vikram, Aishwarya, Priyamani, Govinda, Ravi Kishan, Nikhil Dwivedi, Tejaswini Kolhapure and others
Music: A R Rahman
Dialogues: Vijay Krishna Acharya
Editing: Sreekar Prasad
Cinematography: Santosh Sivan, Manikandan
Story, screenplay, direction: Mani Ratnam
Producers: Mani Ratnam, Sharada Trilok
Release date: 18/06/2010

I will not compare Raavan with Ramayana beacause, Ramayana has great characters which cant be compared. Coming to the Plot of Raavan, Beera (Abhishek) a Leader of some downward caste and hates police men and starts punishing them like anything.

On the Process, he kidnaps the Wife of local SP Dev (Vikram) and her name is Raagini (Aish).
Dev starts the search for his wife, on the way he gets the help of Sanjeevani (Govinda) and will he succeeded in getting her wife back makes the rest of the story.

Even though story is simple, Maniratnam makes his mark in narrating it. Cinematography by Santosh Sivan and Manikandan are extraordinary. we cant see these kind of visuals in a normal Indian Cinema. Locations are outstanding with thick forests and large waterfalls. Music and Background score by A R Rahman are excellent.

Coming to the performances Aishwarya has more scope to perform and she did an outstanding job. Abhishek did a good job as Beera, he has peculiar mannerism like "Bak Bak Bak...".
Vikram and Govinda are good in their roles. Priyamani gave her best in her role, even though her role is limited but the key role for the movie.

Highlights :
1. Performances of Aish and Abhi
2. Cinematography
3. Music
4. Locations

Don't Expect a movie before seeing it, cause everyman has his own thinking..but finally, only one man will direct the movie.

My Rating: 3.5/5

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Raajneeti Review

Raajneeti is Modern Mahabharatha

Director has inspired the whole story on the characters of Mahabharatha

Here is a List of characters who are inspired from Mahabharatha:

Ajay Devgan : Karna

Nikhila Trikha : Kunthi

Naseeruddin Shah : Lord Surya

Manoj Bhajpai : Dhuryodhan

Ranbir Kapoor : Arjun

Nana Patekar : Lord Krishna



Storyline: A War Between cousins to attain political power.There will be two brothers elder one is present chief minister candidate and younger one is party president. Suddenly, elder brother will be attacked with cardiac arrest and suddenly there will be hulchul in the political party. Younger one's children are Arjun Rampal and Ranbir Kapoor. Elder one's son is Manoj Bhajpai.The elder brother gives the control to his brother and Arjun Rampal. From here starts the rivalary between Manoj Bhajpai and Arjun Rampal. Both play's several games for winning the political power before elections. Ranbir comes from US and sees the present situations and plays a key role in supporting his brother. Who wins in the election and becomes CM is the rest of the story.

Performances : Arjun Rampal did a great job with his bold voice and natural performance.
Ajay Devgan has less scope to perform and Ranbir's characterization is more interesting than his performance. Katrina gave an outstanding performance in 3 shades (Bubly Girl, House Wife and Political Leader).Nana Patekar has done a cool job as his character is limited. Manoj Bhajpai also done a very good job.

Technical Team : Cinematography is good and Background score is also very nice. Screenplay and direction are very good. Dialogs also have a good impact while watching the film. Art and costumes department also done a good job.

My Rating : 3/5

Sunday, June 6, 2010

Hanuman Jayanti

About Hanuman Jayanti



Yatra yatra raghunatha kirtanam;
Tatra tatra kritha masthakanjalim;

Bhaspavaari paripurna lochanam;

Maarutim namata raakshasanthakam


Meaning : "We bow to Maruti, Sri Hanuman, who stands with his palms folded above his forehead, with a torrent of tears flowing down his eyes wherever the Names of Lord Rama are sung".

Sri Hanuman is worshipped all over India-either alone or together with Sri Rama. Every temple of Sri Rama has the murti or idol of Sri Hanuman. Hanuman is the Avatara of Lord Shiva. He was born of the Wind-God and Anjani Devi. His other names are Pavanasuta, Marutsuta, Pavankumar, Bajrangabali and Mahavira.

He is the living embodiment of Ram-Nam. He was an ideal selfless worker, a true Karma Yogi who worked desirelessly and dynamically. He was a great devotee and an exceptional Brahmachari or celibate. He served Sri Rama with pure love and devotion, without expecting any fruit in return. He lived to serve Sri Rama. He was humble, brave and wise. He possessed all the divine virtues. He did what others could not do-crossing the ocean simply by uttering Ram-Nam, burning the city of Lanka, and bringing the sanjeevini herb and restoring Lakshmana to life again. He brought Sri Rama and Lakshmana from the nether world after killing Ahiravana.

He had devotion, knowledge, spirit of selfless service, power of celibacy, and desirelessness. He never boasted of his bravery and intelligence.

He said to Ravana, "I am a humble messenger of Sri Rama. I have come here to serve Rama, to do His work. By the command of Lord Rama, I have come here. I am fearless by the Grace of Lord Rama. I am not afraid of death. I welcome it if it comes while serving Lord Rama."

Mark here how humble Hanuman was! How very devoted he was to Lord Rama! He never said, "I am the brave Hanuman. I can do anything and everything."

Lord Rama Himself said to Sri Hanuman, "I am greatly indebted to you, O mighty hero! You did marvellous, superhuman deeds. You do not want anything in return. Sugriva has his kingdom restored to him. Angada has been made the crown prince. Vibhishana has become king of Lanka. But you have not asked for anything at any time. You threw away the precious garland of pearls given to you by Sita. How can I repay My debt of gratitude to you? I will always remain deeply indebted to you. I give you the boon of everlasting life. All will honour and worship you like Myself. Your murti will be placed at the door of My temple and you will be worshipped and honoured first. Whenever My stories are recited or glories sung, your glory will be sung before Mine. You will be able to do anything, even that which I will not be able to!"

Thus did Lord Rama praise Hanuman when the latter returned to Him after finding Sita in Lanka. Hanuman was not a bit elated. He fell in prostration at the holy feet of Lord Rama.

Lord Rama asked him, "O mighty hero, how did you cross the ocean?"

Hanuman humbly replied, "By the power and glory of Thy Name, my Lord."

Again the Lord asked, "How did you burn Lanka? How did you save yourself?"

And Hanuman replied, "By Thy Grace, my Lord."

What humility Sri Hanuman embodied!

His birthday falls on Chaitra Shukla Purnima (the March-April full moon day).

On this holy day worship Sri Hanuman. Fast on this day. Read the Hanuman Chalisa. Spend the whole day in the Japa of Ram-Nam. Sri Hanuman will be highly pleased and will bless you with success in all your undertakings.

Glory to Hanuman! Glory to his Lord, Sri Rama!

Shri Hanuman Chalisa

Shri Guru Charan Saroj Raj After cleansing the mirror of my mind with the pollen
Nij mane mukure sudhar dust of holy Guru's Lotus feet. I Profess the pure,
Varnao Raghuvar Vimal Jasu untainted glory of Shri Raghuvar which bestows the four-
Jo dayaku phal char fold fruits of life.(Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksha).
Budhi Hin Tanu Janike Fully aware of the deficiency of my intelligence, I
Sumirau Pavan Kumar concentrate my attention on Pavan Kumar and humbly
Bal budhi Vidya dehu mohe ask for strength, intelligence and true knowledge to
Harahu Kalesa Vikar relieve me of all blemishes, causing pain.
Jai Hanuman gyan gun sagar Victory to thee, O'Hanuman! Ocean of Wisdom-All
Jai Kapis tihun lok ujagar hail to you O'Kapisa! (fountain-head of power,wisdom
and Shiva-Shakti) You illuminate all the three worlds
(Entire cosmos) with your glory.
Ram doot atulit bal dhama You are the divine messenger of Shri Ram. The
Anjani-putra Pavan sut nama repository of immeasurable strength, though known
only as Son of Pavan (Wind), born of Anjani.
Mahavir Vikram Bajrangi With Limbs as sturdy as Vajra (The mace of God Indra)
Kumati nivar sumati Ke sangi you are valiant and brave. On you attends good Sense
and Wisdom. You dispel the darkness of evil thoughts.
Kanchan varan viraj subesa Your physique is beautiful golden coloured and your dress
Kanan Kundal Kunchit Kesa is pretty. You wear ear rings and have long curly hair.
Hath Vajra Aur Dhuvaje Viraje You carry in your hand a lightening bolt along with a victory
Kandhe moonj janehu sajai (kesari) flag and wear the sacred thread on your shoulder.
Sankar suvan kesri Nandan As a descendant of Lord Sankar, you are a comfort and pride
Tej pratap maha jag vandan of Shri Kesari. With the lustre of your Vast Sway, you are
propitiated all over the universe.
Vidyavan guni ati chatur You are the repository of learning, virtuous and fully accom-
Ram kaj karibe ko aatur plished, always keen to carry out the behest's of Shri Ram.
Prabu charitra sunibe ko rasiya You are an ardent listener, always so keen to listen to the
Ram Lakhan Sita man Basiya narration of Shri Ram's Life Stories. Your heart is filled with
what Shri Ram stood for. You therefore always dwell in the
hearts of Shri Ram, Lakshman and Sita.
Sukshma roop dhari Siyahi dikhava You appeared before Sita in a Diminutive form and spoke to
Vikat roop dhari lanka jarava her in humility. You assumed an awesome form and struck
terror by setting Lanka on fire.
Bhima roop dhari asur sanghare With over-whelming might you destroyed the Asuras
Ramachandra ke kaj sanvare (demons) and performed all tasks assigned to you by Shri Ram
with great skill.
Laye Sanjivan Lakhan Jiyaye You brought Sanjivan (A herb that revives life) and restored
Shri Raghuvir Harashi ur laye Lakshman back to life, Shri Raghuvir (Shri Ram) cheerfully
embraced you with his heart full of joy.
Raghupati Kinhi bahut badai Shri Raghupati (Shri Ram) lustily extolled your excellence and
Tum mam priye Bharat-hi sam bhai said: "You are as dear to me as my own brother Bharat."
Sahas badan tumharo yash gaave Thousands of living beings are chanting hymns of your glories;
Us kahi Shripati kanth lagaave saying thus, Shri Ram warmly hugged him (Shri Hanuman).
Sankadik Brahmadi Muneesa When prophets like Sanka, even the Sage like Lord Brahma,
Narad Sarad sahit Aheesa the great hermit Narad himself, Goddess Saraswati and Ahisha
(one of immeasurable dimensions).
Yam Kuber Digpal Jahan te Even Yamraj (God of Death) Kuber (God of Wealth) and the
Kavi kovid kahi sake kahan te Digpals (deputies guarding the four corners of the Universe)
have been vying with one another in offering homage to your
glories. How then, can a mere poet give adequate expression
of your super excellence.
Tum upkar Sugreevahin keenha You rendered a great service to Sugriv. You united him with
Ram milaye rajpad deenha Shri Ram and he installed him on the Royal Throne. By heeding
Tumharo mantra Vibheeshan mana your advice, Vibhishan became Lord of Lanka. This is known
Lankeshwar Bhaye Sub jag jana all over the Universe.
Yug sahastra jojan par Bhanu On your own you dashed upon the Sun, which is at a fabulous
Leelyo tahi madhur phal janu distance of thousands of miles, thinking it to be a sweet
luscious fruit.
Prabhu mudrika meli mukh mahee Carrying the Lord's Signet Ring in your mouth, there is
Jaladhi langhi gaye achraj nahee hardly any wonder that you easily leapt across the ocean.
Durgaam kaj jagat ke jete The burden of all difficult tasks of the world become light
Sugam anugraha tumhre tete with your kind grace.
Ram dware tum rakhvare, You are the sentry at the door of Shri Ram's Divine Abode.
Hoat na agya binu paisare No one can enter it without your permission,
Sub sukh lahai tumhari sarna All comforts of the world lie at your feet. The devotees enjoy all
Tum rakshak kahu ko dar na divine pleasures and feel fearless under your benign Protection.
Aapan tej samharo aapai You alone are befitted to carry your own splendid valour. All the
Teenhon lok hank te kanpai three worlds (entire universe) tremor at your thunderous call.
Bhoot pisach Nikat nahin aavai All the ghosts, demons and evil forces keep away, with the
Mahavir jab naam sunavai sheer mention of your great name, O'Mahaveer!!
Nase rog harai sab peera All diseases, pain and suffering disappear on reciting regularly
Japat nirantar Hanumant beera Shri Hanuman's holy name.
Sankat se Hanuman chudavai Those who remember Shri Hanuman in thought, words and deeds
Man Karam Vachan dyan jo lavai with Sincerity and Faith, are rescued from all crises in life.
Sub par Ram tapasvee raja All who hail, worship and have faith in Shri Ram as the Supreme
Tin ke kaj sakal Tum saja Lord and the king of penance. You make all their difficult tasks
very easy.
Aur manorath jo koi lavai Whosoever comes to you for fulfillment of any desire with faith
Sohi amit jeevan phal pavai and sincerity, Will he alone secure the imperishable fruit of
human life.
Charon Yug partap tumhara All through the four ages your magnificent glory is acclaimed far
Hai persidh jagat ujiyara and wide. Your fame is Radiantly acclaimed all over the Cosmos.
Sadhu Sant ke tum Rakhware You are Saviour and the guardian angel of Saints and Sages and
Asur nikandan Ram dulhare destroy all Demons. You are the angelic darling of Shri Ram.
Ashta sidhi nav nidhi ke dhata You can grant to any one, any yogic power of Eight Siddhis
Us var deen Janki mata (power to become light and heavy at will) and Nine Nidhis
(Riches,comfort,power,prestige,fame,sweet relationship etc.)
This boon has been conferred upon you by Mother Janki.
Ram rasayan tumhare pasa You possess the power of devotion to Shri Ram. In all rebirths
Sada raho Raghupati ke dasa you will always remain Shri Raghupati's most dedicated disciple.
Tumhare bhajan Ram ko pavai Through hymns sung in devotion to you, one can find Shri Ram
Janam janam ke dukh bisravai and become free from sufferings of several births.
Anth kaal Raghuvir pur jayee If at the time of death one enters the Divine Abode of Shri Ram,
Jahan janam Hari-Bakht Kahayee thereafter in all future births he is born as the Lord's devotee.
Aur Devta Chit na dharehi One need not entertain any other deity for Propitiation, as
Hanumanth se hi sarve sukh karehi devotion of Shri Hanuman alone can give all happiness.
Sankat kate mite sab peera One is freed from all the sufferings and ill fated contingencies of
Jo sumirai Hanumat Balbeera rebirths in the world. One who adores and remembers Shri Hanuman.
Jai Jai Jai Hanuman Gosahin Hail, Hail, Hail, Shri Hanuman, Lord of senses. Let your victory
Kripa Karahu Gurudev ki nyahin over the evil be firm and final. Bless me in the capacity as my
supreme guru (teacher).
Jo sat bar path kare kohi One who recites Chalisa one hundred times, becomes free from the
Chutehi bandhi maha sukh hohi bondage of life and death and enjoys the highest bliss at last.
Jo yah padhe Hanuman Chalisa All those who recite Hanuman Chalisa (The forty Chaupais)
Hoye siddhi sakhi Gaureesa regularly are sure to be benedicted. Such is the evidence of no less a
witness as Bhagwan Sankar.
Tulsidas sada hari chera Tulsidas as a humble devotee of the Divine Master, stays perpetually at
Keejai Das Hrdaye mein dera his feet, he prays "Oh Lord! You enshrine within my heart & soul."
Pavantnai sankat haran, Oh! conqueror of the Wind, Destroyer of all miseries, you are a
Mangal murti roop. symbol of Auspiciousness.
Ram Lakhan Sita sahit, Along with Shri Ram, Lakshman and Sita, reside in my heart.
Hrdaye basahu sur bhoop. Oh! King of Gods.

Telugu Version:


Download PDF: Hanuman Chalisa

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Yanam Trip

Prince Mahesh Says That His Movie will be releasing this August



Most Awaiting Trivikram - Mahesh Combo is going to release this August and he never got a problem with trivikram because he is one of his closest friends. Mahesh Say's that his son Gautham is four year old and he can speak four languages(Telugu, Marathi, Hindi & English). Recently Mahesh Created a Twitter account and his id is urstrulyMahesh to interact more with his fans and all the above information is through his tweets...

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

Invitation to My Brother Murugan's Thread Ceremony on 31-March-2010 8.30am

You are cordially invited to grace the occasion of my brother Murugan's "Upanayanam" or "Thread Ceremony". I request the pleasure of your presence and blessings for this auspicious occasion. Date: 31-March-2010 8.30am Venue: 3-2-119, Opp. Venkatarama Theatre, College Road, Amalapuram.



To know the history of "Upanayanam" Click on:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Upanayana

Murugan Maruvada
Mobile : +91 - 9849564536

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Sri Rama Navami



Whenever the evil forces reign supreme, the Lord will come to the rescue and set things right. Accordingly Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the Universe (according to the Hindu mythology) has taken 9 "Avatars" or incarnations to eradicate the evil forces and establish goodness and prosperity. (Lord Vishnu is yet to take his 10th Avatar - "Kalki). Of these incarnations, the seventh is the Sri Rama Avatar. Sri Rama Navami marks the birth of Lord Rama. From Ugadi for the next 9 days, we celebrate the Vasantha Navarathri. It concludes with Sri Rama Navami. It is celebrated on the day when "Navami" (9th day after the new/full moon day) and the star "Punarvasu" occur together in the Telugu month of "Chaitra". Thus it is also known as Chaitra Masa Suklapaksha Navami, and marks the end of nine-day Chaitra Navaratri celebrations.



Some highlights of this day are:

Kalyanam (Ceremonial wedding performed by temple priests) at Bhadrachalam (A famous temple of Lord Rama) on the banks of the river Godavari in Khammam district in Andhra, India.



For Sri Rama Navami, the "Prasadams" offered are Panakam, Vada Pappu and Panchaamrutham. These items are also prepared at the temples and distributed as prasadams to the devotees who come to seek the blessings of God. All the above mentioned foodstuffs can be taken to bring down the body heat. They also make up for the loss of body fluids due to the excessive perspiration. Apart from the above, in olden days, there was a custom to gift hand-made fans to other people. Since there was no electric fans then, to reduce the effect of the heat, these hand-operated fans were very useful during the summer months. It was indeed a thoughtful gesture.



Panakam in Sanskrit means sweet drink. It is a main neivedyam at all the temples and houses on this day in India.



Ingredients

2-3 cups of water (depends on the no. Of serving)
½ tsp ginger powder or 1tbsp grated fresh ginger
2-3 tbsp grated jaggery (depends on how sweet you want it to be)
½ tsp crushed peppercorns
1 crushed cardamom

Preparation

Dissolve the grated jaggery in water and add fresh chopped ginger or dry ginger powder to it. I prefer fresh ginger to the dry powder as it gives more fresh taste and zing to the drink. The dry ginger loses some properties of fresh ones. Boil the mixture and filter it. Add crushed cardamom and peppercorns to it. Now its ready for Neivedyam.

Food facts

Jaggery or Gur, is pure, Unrefined whole sugar, containing the natural goodness of minerals and vitamins inherently present in sugarcane juice.
Ginger and its extracts aid digestion, help relieve stomachaches, flatulence, and promote circulation.
Powdered ginger is very effective in treating motion sickness. It’s especially given to kids for proper digestion. Fresh mashed ginger root, when applied to burns, eases the pain.
The combination of Pepper, ginger along with honey or cane sugar relieves sore throat, cough and cold.

Vada pappu (Soaked Split yellow moong dal)

Ingredients

1 cup moong dal
2-3 tbsp grated coconut
chushed green chillies(optional)
1tbsp lemon juice (optional)
Salt to taste.
Fresh chopped cilantro to garnish.

Preparation

The moong dal should be soaked in warm water for about half an hour and drained.
To this, add all the other ingredients and mix well.
This dal is eaten raw and uncooked.



Chalimidi

Ingredients

1cup raw rice
2-3 tbsp chopped coconuts
1tbsp ghee
½ cup sugar or jaggery.
Water for syrup
½ tsp crushed cardamom.

Preparation

There are 2 methods for making this chalimidi. One is called the Pachi chalimidi (Raw or uncooked chalimidi). For this the raw rice is soaked for 2-3 hours in warm water.
The rice is then drained and dried in a dry cloth untill completely dry and powdered coarsely.
This rice powder is then mixed with sugar or jaggery adding 1-2tsp water. Add grated coconut and crushed cardamom.
Mix well to make a dough. See the picture. This is the basic recipe. I used ready-made rice powder and it came out very well. There are lot of variations from this one.

The second method is the cooked chalimidi where the rice powder is added to the warm sugar or jaggery syrup and cooked in low heat to form the dough.
It is very carefully stirred so that no lumps are formed. Then the rest of the ingredients are added.
But the traditional way to make it is the very first method.

Thursday, March 11, 2010

Interview with Gautham Vasudev Menon

Gautham Vasudev Menon, an engineer by education, a director cum script-writer by profession is now making ripples in South Indian Cinema. His approach to project the love in a different angle makes him stand different in the crowd. His recent film in Tamil ‘Vinnaithaandi Varuvaaya’ and its remake in Telugu, an Indira Productions’ film, ‘Ye Maya Chesavo’, are running houseful shows leading to very high expectations from this genius in his future projects. I was fortunate to steel a few moments from this promising director who also has been a rare recipient of a whole-hearted appreciation letter from none other than a legend like K Balachander. The few experts are:


What inspired you to direct a film like YMC?

Honestly, no inspiration. The first lines I wrote when I decided I will write my next script was, ‘Of all the women in the world, why did I fall in love with Jessie'. I stared at that line for more than half an hour and then I started writing. I finished the first draft of the screenplay sitting in Hyderabad in one week.


How did you conceptualize the character Jessie?

Jessie is like most of ‘any other girl' category girls. Mind you, she is not confused. She very clearly knows what she wants. She wants to be with Karthik but is torn between what she wants and what she knows her father will want for her. I saw her in my mind, the way she spoke, the clothes she wears and what goes in her mind, I saw all that. Jessie is imaginary. I don't know anybody like Jessie personally but I think there are many girls like her out there.


You are an engineer who pursued a career in films. And in YMC also the hero has same ambitions coming from same background. Well! Any resemblance!

No resemblance. When I wrote Karthik, I thought an angle like that, an engineer wanting to be a filmmaker was a new angle to a character in film. And I was sure there are many guys like him out there.


How did you find directing Naga Chaitanya compared to Simbhu who did the same role in Tamil?

Both performances were different. Simbu was a little more intense and that went with his age. Chai was more subtle and boyish and younger. It's also unfair to compare because it's only Chai's second film. Having said that I must say that Chai did a very good job. He took some time to settle down with me and by the end of the first week of filming he knew what it was that I was looking for. He is a good guy and has a good head on his shoulders.


Your debut film ‘Cheli’ (Minnale in Tamil) and now ‘Ye Maya Chesavo’ (Vinnaithaandi Varuvaaya in Tamil) depict love in different angles contrast to mundane approach. How do you get these ideas?

A filmmaker can’t be bogged down by the same genre of film. He has to come up with different stuff to keep the audience interest alive. I strive to do that without putting in too much of an effort. Looking back, Cheli was very immature. YMC is very mature and that's a good sign.


Why did you not decide dubbing of the successful Tamil film ‘Vinnaithaandi Varuvaaya’? Also you have considered new faces in Telugu contrary to the Tamil version. What was your thought process?

I don't believe in dubbing a film. I produced the Tamil version which is the original and I would never have dubbed it. I feel dubbing is only a money making angle and anybody with a passion for films should never dub a film into another language. I did the Tamil version with known actors to suit a commercial format and for a little more money to come into the making of the film. But the script was originally meant for actors without an image, new faces. So I went ahead with that concept for theTelugu version.


You seem to be giving more weightage to heroines’ roles in your films. Why do you stick to this line when many films are hero dominating?

I can't write a script without a strong female character. Even in an action film, i need to have a girl and a love angle or at least a strong female character. Just like in life, there is no man without a woman.


Same way your importance to music is also very high. Do you by any chance have any musical background?

I am not a musician. I love music. I write my songs into the screenplay. I have a visual in my head about the songs even before I start filming the script.


How did you manage AR Rahman’s time inspite of his busy schedules after Oscars?

I did not push him to give me songs and didn't fix any deadlines. I knew he was really busy and music can't be forced and brought out. It has to come naturally. He is a master and a genius. I love the music of YMC


Romance as well as action has succeeded in your hands equally. What is the mantra?

A good realistic film that the audience can identify with will always work. Even if it's an action film, if the audience can see themselves in those characters, the film will work. That's what I try to do. Make it work for the audience.


Any horror films on the cards?

Yes, I would love to do a horror film. I am making a thriller now.


Why do we find classes appreciating your movies but masses take time to understand?

That's a thought creation of the media and not necessarily the audience'. Which person would like to say he's not a class audience kind of a person? The audience is the same. And even if you insist that there is a whole bunch of so called mass audience, I believe in makinga film out of what the script demands only. And these mass audience are moving over to the other side with the production of good films.


Mr K Balachander’s open appreciation vides a letter pours undisputed compliments to you and your work. He also addressed you as a new icon in SouthIndian Cinema. What are your comments on this?

I am overwhelmed and touched by the letter. He is a brilliant filmmaker and was known was for his powerful women characters. I have admired his films and till recently seen every film of his on the opening day and earlier watched all his earlier films on video while I was growing up as a filmmaker myself. To receive a letter from his just reminds me that Life throws up some unbelievable things at you now and then. It's a letter and words of appreciation that I will cherish and remember for the rest of my life.


Your both films in Telugu, ‘Gharshana’ and now ‘YMC’ are hits. Are there any more films on the cards?

I would love to do many more Telugu films.

Monday, March 1, 2010

Aaromale Lyrics From Ye Maya Chesaave with English Translation

Movie : Ye Maya Chesave
Music : A.R.Rahman
Vocal: Alphonse (Music director of 4 students)



Mamalayeri Varum Thennal
(A breeze, which blows in through the mountains.)
Puthu Manavalan Thennal, ...
( A breeze, which is decked up like a bridegroom)
Palli Medayae Thottu Thalodi Kurushil Thozhuthu Varumbol,
(When it arrives after worshipping the cross at the altar..)
Varavelpinu MalayalaKara Manasammatham Choriyum,
( This land of Kerala will grant permission for a warm welcome )

Aaromalae, Aaromalae, Aaromalae, Aaromalae....
(O Beloved....O Beloved...O Beloved.....O Beloved...)

Swasthi Swasthi Su Muhurtham,
( This is a very auspicious occasion )
Sumungali Bhava, Manavatti
(O Bride, may you be blessed with a long wedded life)
Swasthi Swasthi Su Muhurtham,
( This is a very auspicious occasion )
Sumungali Bhava Manavatti
(O Bride..,May you be blessed with a long wedded life)

Shyama Rathri Than Aramanayil,
( In the inner sanctum of the dark night )
Mari Nilkayo Tharakame,
(O Star..why are you keeping away ? )
Pulari Manjillae Kathiroliyay,
(Like a ray of light in the morning mist,)
Akalae Nilkayo Penmaname,
( Are you standing afar, my lady ? )

Chanju Nilkuma Chillayil Nee, Chila Chilambiyo Poonkuyilae
(On the bough which is bent, O cuckoo bird, did you sing sweetly ? )
Manchiragile, Marayoliyae Thediyathiyo Poorangal
(Did the festivities come in search of the everlasting flame in the earthern lamp ?)

Swasthi Swasthi Su Muhurtham,
(This is a very auspicious occasion )
Sumungali Bhava Manavatti
(O Bride..,May you be blessed with a long wedded life)

Aaromalae... Aaromalae....
(O Beloved....O Beloved....)

Kadalinae, Karayodiniyum Padan Sneham Undo ?
(Does the sea still possess the love to serenade the shore ?)
Mezhukuthurikalayi Urukan Iniyum Pranayam Manasil Undo ?
(Is there still love in the mind..to be melted like candle wax ?)

Aaromalae.. Aaromalaeee.. Aaromalaee
(O Beloved....O Beloved...O Beloved.....O Beloved...)
Aaromalae.. Ohh.. Ho ! - (O Beloved....)