THREE IN ONE .....

CLEAN – LUBRICATE - PROTECT

During my Merchant Navy days in the seventies, the term “two in one” was being lavishly used  in electronics circles. It was the lay man’s perception of a radio cum tape recorder. I had purchased a National Panasonic ‘two-in-one’ from Yokohama or Osaka way back in 1973 – 74. A wise investment, I must say for I had used it extensively for recording songs from the radio, live concerts from AIR and Madras-2, especially during the December season. After I was happily married in 1977, and had my two sons Hari & Shyam, the instrument served its purpose to record their songs, conversations etc. The gadget was in fact a three in one because it had 2 compartments for inserting the cassettes of sizes M30, M60, M120 etc. (M indicating the play duration in minutes on each side of the cassette, of course).

We had a good stock of 3-in-1 oil cans and ‘mollycoat’ (used for freeing the bolt/fastner threads at various locations like equipment/machinery base frames, doors, huge valve handles, etc., etc.) in the ships. The paste should have inherited its brand name from ‘mollycoddling’ which means over protection / pampering. After I left the ships and took up a career as shop floor engineer, I got a real 3-in1 oil can for my personal do-it-yourself jobs at home. The oil smell was really good – something like the fragrance you get near any automobile paint shop. Having made the superfluous introduction, let me come back to the content or rather contents of this blog. I have spread the blog into 3 segments or rather, 3 incidents, each different in its own way.

1.         HOW “MURPHY’ ONCE AGAIN TARGETTED ME AND ME ONLY  ….….

You would recall that my most favourite topic is Elliots Beach and I get the skeleton for many of my earlier blogs spanning some 7 years, during my walk along the beach side in the wee hours. Even if I am able to retain 10% of what flashes through my head then, I think it’s a good bargain.

This also is one such incident that happened few months back. Wife was away at Bangalore, enjoying the company and hospitality of our sons. I had just finished my quota of 50 to 60 minutes of brisk walk through the stretch of the beach, I was about to de-stand or un-stand (?) my Scooty Pep. I had opened the ‘dicky’ to take out my goggles because I prefer to put it on while driving to prevent dust entering my eyes or sometimes as a sun screen to escape from the Madras scorch.

I was kind of biting the scooter key bunch since both my hands were engaged. Just then, an acquaintance called me out and wished good morning. Being a good listener, and a better responder, I too wished him back “Very Good Morning, Sir..” Call it fate or whatever, before I could complete ‘very…’ the key bunch fell inside the box. Surprisingly, I was not much bothered, and instead compared myself with the proverbial crow holding the onion vada between the beaks and the cunning dwarf fox (kulla nari) below telling the poor, innocent crow how mellifluous his voice was, and praising his musical knowledge, requesting him to sing just one song for him. You know the rest of the story, how the crow gladly obliged etc.

However, my sense of utmost complacency didn’t last very long. In the malee that followed, the seat cover dropped down over the dicky. And, look at the turn of events. During normal times, I have to bang the seat 3 or 4 times before it is securely locked with a click sound. I am sure, my dear friend Murphy must have been lurching around somewhere nearby. The damn latch of the seat cover perfectly got locked with the unbelievable click sound, which in normal times would have been pretty much of a relief and musical to my ears..….. !!

Now, I can’t unlock the two-wheeler, let alone start her, without the (ignition) key. I tried to open the dicky using keys of other scooties parked nearby, but without any success. To-day is going to be a real bad day, I told myself. I had three options.

1.       Wait for 3 hours and get a mechanic to sort out the problem.

2.       I remembered there was a spare key somewhere at home. I could go home and bring the car, and take the scooter. But I had to find someone to drive one of the vehicles. Unfortunately, by then everyone had left after their morning strolls, and jogging.

3.     I decided to go home and try my luck if I could locate the spare key and come back to take the scooty back.

To cut a long story short, much to my relief, I was able to locate the spare key, and brought the two-wheeler back.

2.         THE STORY OF THREE HUGS….

The great Sidhu once again…

This time, he says, the dream of Kartarpura corridor is becoming a reality only because of his recent (in) famous hugging of Pakistan Army Chief. Now that he is once again invited by his friends in Pakistan, someone was suggesting that this time he hugs the Pakistani Navy Chief so that cross border firing from across the LOC by Pak will stop. And, maybe next time he hugs the Pak Air Force Chief and ‘tamaar padaar’ – all terrorist guns go to silent mode…..

As far as I can recollect, there are only two other historical ‘hugs’, the earliest known hug being from Dhritarashtra. Unable to digest the killing of Duryodhana, by Bheema, (irrespective of his sons’ naïve attitude towards Pandavas right since childhood), he wanted to take revenge, and  calls for a get together of Pandavas along with Krishna. He tells Krishna to take him to Bheema to hug him because he too was like his son. Knowing the evil intentions of the old blind man, Krishna takes him to a concrete pillar or some pillar of such strong ingradients. Dhritarashtra hugs “Bheema” so hard, and to the horror of all onlookers, the pillar disintegrates to thousands of pieces because of the impact of the hug.

The more recent hug, or in other words, the hilarious ‘kattipudi’ vaithiyam suggested by Kamal haasan as a panacea for all diseases in “Vasool Raja…” is another classic example for the hidden powers of hugs. I was in total agreement with this type of treatment, (with no malicious intentions, of course), till very recently. Now, I am not too sure.

TAIL PIECE:

Couple of weeks back, while walking at the beach front along with my dear wife, she points out to a somewhat good looking female, and tells me that the lady was suffering from an attitudinal problem. “How?” -  I ask her.

Seems when she wishes this particular lady, on some days she would wish back, and at other times, she would look the other way…. Being an ardent fan of Kamal Haasan, I asked my wife very very innocently whether I shall try to treat the lady using the proven Kattipudi Vaithiyam?

And, next thing I knew was that I was in a cozy bed at Malar Hospital with half a dozen stitches on my beautiful nose. Now, I am discharged after a week’s stay there, and believe me, that’s why I am allergic to hugs, these days 😍😍😍…..

                                    

3.         THE INCREDIBLE TRAIN JOURNEY (as told by my wife)….

SORRY DEAR ONES….

ONLY TWO EPISODES FOR NOW. WHETHER BJP COMMITS A DATE FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF RAM MANDIR, AS DEMANDED BY SHIV SENA, VHP ETC., I PROMISE YOU THAT I WILL COMMIT A DATE FOR THE PUBLISHING OF THIRD EPISODE – POSITIVELY BY THE FIRST WEEK OF DECEMBER, 2018.

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 ​​

Friendship isn't about who you have known the longest.

 ​It's about who come and never 

leave your side

 

 

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"SENIOR CITIZENS" DAY' RAMAYANA MONTH etc.....

SENIOR CITIZENS, RAMAYANA MASA ETC....

Someone said today is “Senior Citizens’ Day” – well, every dog has its day, after all, I thought !! And only apt and logical that the day falls during the ‘dog’ days of “Adi” month. Elsewhere in this blog page, I have told in detail some 5 years back about the ‘dog days’ – you may read, if you are interested. Here is the link..

http://anandforever-anand.blogspot.com/2013/05/musings-at-madras-during-dog-days.html

Let us put the dog in the manger or elsewhere for a while.

The month ‘Adi’ or “Kataka” (‘Karkidakam’ in Malayalam) is considered very inauspicious for more than one reason. The weather is bad - while too hot and sultry in Tamil Nadu, raining cats and ‘dogs’ in many other parts of India, like Kerala, Maharashtra, and many northern states. And while there are floods and misery in many parts, it’s time for epidemics and sun strokes elsewhere. As usual, people look at Him for sparing them from the resultant miseries, and so undertake pilgrimages, conduct special pujas at temples, particularly in Devi temples everywhere.

The month is called ‘Ramayana month’ in Kerala. I was born in a tiny Palakkad village called Manjapra (with two gramams – ‘Big’ village, and ‘Small’ village). I am from Big village – earning the name because of its higher width and length, so also the number of houses. Music, rituals, merging with and be part of nature etc., came naturally to us. I had seen my dad reciting ‘Ramayana’ every day during the month. I remember there were some 10 or 12 volumes of the epic, each thick bound book almost 2 inches thick, with more than 1500 – 2000 pages…… One, or may be two books constitutes one of the seven ‘Kandas’ – chapters in a broader sense. They were written by Valmiki, and had the verses in Sanskrit as well as Malayalam, with meanings of each sloka. One of my childhood ambitions was to read them all when I grew up. I don’t know where the books are now. Dad most probably left them there back when we sold our 3 – storey house of about 3000 plus square feet with a sprawling two ground open space that housed all kinds of trees like jack fruit, tamarind, coconut etc., for a paltry 5000 rupees way back in 1965. The Ramayana books might have found their way to the ‘old paper wallah’s shop’. I was telling about the seven different ‘kandas’ of epic Ramayana – they are Bala Kanda, Ayodhya Kanda, Aaranya Kanda, Kishkinda Kanda, Sundara Kanda, Yudha Kanda, and of course, Uthara Kanda. Opinion, however, differs as to whether the last Kanda can be part of Ramayana at all, because it mainly deals with Lava and Kusha, the two sons of Rama.

A visit to the 4 temples dedicated to the 4 brothers of Ramayana, Rama, Bharatha, Lakshmana, and Shatrugana during the ‘Ramayana’ month is a MUST for many devotees of Kerala. In fact, there are these 4 temples, or Naalambalam (Naalu, meaning four + Ambalam meaning temple) in four different districts / localities of Kerala (Thrissur & Ernakulam, Kottayam, Kottayam & Ernakulam, and Malappuram). Thus there are 4 x 4 = 16 temples in Kerala, dedicated to the royal family. For the detailed descriptions, photographs, background history etc, click the link below.

http://www.vaikhari.org/nalambalams.html

You will be interested to know, that one of my muslim friends (junior at the engineering college) is sending audio clippings every morning starting with the segment for each day of the Ramayana month. He had sent the 9th segment today morning – hopefully, he sends the remaining 22 segments at the rate of one per day. I listen to some of the segments (5 – 7 minutes duration) but skip those which are longer like 30 or 40 minutes. However, I do what is the next best thing to do – forward the clippings every day to our ‘Srilanka Ramayana’ whatsup group created in October last year, for the participants of the 7-day Srilanka Ramayana yatra undertook by some 30 of us.!!! Elsewhere in these pages, you can see my English translation of our experience at that time, originally penned beautifully in Tamil by the senior most member of our group. See the link for the introduction of the blog on our Srilanka Ramayana trip…

http://anandforever-anand.blogspot.com/2018/02/the-seven-day-srilankan-adventure.html

Time to go to the ‘Ratnagireeswarar’ temple in Besant Nagar (today being ‘Pradosham’). So, see you guys later……

Let us take back the dog from the manger… or the tail, to be more precise.

‘TAIL’ piece:

One of my friends whom I met at the Elliots beach this morning looked very happy. I asked him what was the reason.

                                                                                                     

He said “it is ‘Adi’ month no?”

                                                                                                    

I said, “Arre, this month is considered inauspicious, and what is there to be so happy about it?” 

“Oh, come on, don’t you know that you have ‘Adi thallupadi' (discount) sale everywhere? We make the best use of it, dresses, house hold gadgets or whatever….”

That, I thought, was ‘lateral’ thinking..! or, seeing things differently, rather than seeing different things……

KALPATHY – DOWN MEMORY LANE (2) - STORY

KALPATHY –

DOWN MEMORY LANE (2) - STORY

It is exactly after 30 years, I am touching the soil of Kalpathy (A small village in Kerala) - Today is 14th of November, 2006.

The time is 4.00 AM. In a few hours from now, the climatic three-day extravaganza of the nine day festivities, - what lakhs of Keralites, irrespective of caste or creed - in and around Palakkad and nearby towns and villages in particular - eagerly look forward, will unfold. “Kaasiyil Paathi Kalpathy…,” (Kalpathy is 50% of Varanasi) they say. In a sense, even I am here for a wholesome dip to wash off my sins, (paapa), and for making amends (parihaara!)

The Kalpathy River, however, flows in its usual majestic splendour. It was on a similar night three decades back, I bade good bye to this soil. In fact, two of us – Radhika and myself. Poor girl, she never got the chance to feel and smell the proverbial “Ther Kaattu” (Chariot Breeze) again! She left last year, leaving me to silently endure the sufferings. The end was sudden and unexpected………... … How I wish she was with me till my last breath! Such a solace she was, and I could bury all my pangs of sorrow on her caring shoulders!

Appa and Amma must have been shattered. I was a coward. I never dared to face them, and handle things properly. And, at no point of time did Radhika ever question whatever I did. Now, after thirty years, I wish better sense prevailed. But then, it is too late……Radhika would always say, “What you sow, so you reap...” God! And how we reaped!

UDAY. That was our son. When he was born, our joy knew no bounds. Bharani was his birth star. ‘He is going to rule the world’, they said, “Bharani, dharani aalvaan, nee vena paathukko”.. (you just wait and see, “Bharani” will rule the world) It was Radhika’s idea to name him so. “He will bring us lots of luck, see”, she said. And, luck, he got us aplenty, indeed. All the fortunes we built in the Mahanagar that is Bombay, was after Uday arrived. Both of us were civil engineers from NSS, Palakkad. While I took to construction, she confined herself to design.

Our career graph started growing upward, and very rapidly, at that. Those were the years when there was a severe dearth for civil engineers. Every one aspired to be only mechanical engineer, or chemical engineer, no takers for civil! There was no Electronics, or other branches, as we have now. There were only three basic streams, civil, electrical & mechanical. Trivandrum & Trichur offered chemical also. But very limited seats. The net result was that by the time we came out of college in 1975, the demand for civil engineering graduates far exceeded the supply. 

When Uday was three, we decided to have another child. We didn’t want our son to suffer from single child syndrome. I was the only child for my parents. And I knew what it is being a single child, though realization dawned much later in life. My dad probably didn’t realize the hazards then, and the pangs this would bring me later. Perhaps he felt he couldn’t afford a second child. Anyway, much to our delight, Sandhya was born. Magam was the star. “Magam piranna Manga”, (The girl born on Magam star) we all rejoiced. I suggested the name, and she agreed, “Assthikkoru Aaan, Aasaikkoru Ponn”, (a son to inherit your wealth and a daughter to fondle) I said. “No more experiments!” Being from Palakkad, she was able to understand most of our typical usages, though she could not get the more intricate ones!

Our growth was phenomenal. Uday and Sandhya were also growing. Both were good at studies, and when other parents would take leave and sit with their children even for class exams, we hardly knew how the kids were doing. The reports, however spoke for themselves. Again, we were too busy with our jobs, or ‘career’, as the management jargon goes. Uday got into engineering, “Triple – E” which was the fad at that time. Sandhya was very clear about her priorities, “commerce is my cuppa tea”, she would say, and the brilliant girl that she was, she cleared CA in her maiden attempt, again with rank. We were “Neighbours’ envy, and Owners’ pride.” We had everything. But then destiny had different plans. After 30 years, I realize the full significance of ‘Vinai vithaithavan’ (One who has sown hatred) ………… Yes, the “aruvadai naal” (harvesting day) came - with a real bang!

Uday wanted to do his MS, and got his admission with internship at Carnegie Mellon University and we were literally in cloud nine. He went on to complete his doctorate also in his favourite “Robotics” at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Getting into a good organization was no problem for him. Everything was too nice and too good until one day the bomb exploded. He sent a mail saying that he is deeply “on a bondage” with an American girl, and he ‘is’ intending to marry her. Apparently, they were on a ‘living in’ relation for the past six months. I sincerely wished he sought our views, but that was not to be. Radhika was willing to accept everything, a Christian, non-Indian of diametrically opposite cultural background and food habits – anything. But a girl almost 5 years elder to him! That was beyond her wildest perception. As if to add insult to injury, he posed a very valid question, “Appa mattum enna panninel?” (What did you do Dad..?) and, that was the proverbial last straw. Or, why blame him? In a way, he is very right! You reap only what you sow.

Yes… !  Let me take you down memory lane…………..

Appa was 70 when I passed my PU. I do not know much about him.  He wasn’t of a talking kind. Most of our communications, I remember, were through body language. His look would speak volumes. In fact, I had strict instructions to be back home by 7.00 at any cost. You play, swim or whatever. But be back at the stroke of seven. That was the order. And my schedule was very clear, and specific. 7.00 to 7.30 PM, wash, and Naamajapam. Amma would recite, and I repeat. Each day of the week had specific slokas, on Siva on Mondays, Durga on Fridays etc! Have dinner at the stroke of eight, study till 9.00 and sleep. There were no peer pressures, or parental pressures to perform and be expert in everything! Times were very different! Crèche, KG, Pre-KG, Dyslexia, Remedial classes etc., were unheard of. Schooling starts after the child completes 5 years. Till such time he or she thoroughly enjoys the childhood times. 

My day would start at 5.30 in the morning. After brushing the teeth with “umikkari” (fried skin of paddy peels) (or ‘mukkeri’ in local terminology!), I start off for Kalpathy puzha for a hearty swim and bath, washing of clothes etc. Morning rituals are carried out on the river bank itself! After Sandhya Vandanam, I would return home by 8.30 or so. (My ‘Upanayanam’ was conducted just as I completed seven years) Amma would feed me whatever is there, Arisi adai, (Rice cake) most of the times. There will be iddlies occasionally. Dosa was a luxury, because oil was costly! It was much later that I came to know that she was starving most of the days! I could feel the ball gliding through my throat now!

Go to school, which was 3 miles away. All of us would walk. Very few houses. Mostly mangoe groves. Pluck whatever is within reachable height, run away when the caretaker chased us with a stick! What a life, that was! In school, it was a different story. HM-cum-owner, Mr. Sharma was very strict. Always seen with a long cane, he must have been replacing the ‘weapon’ at least thrice a week. I myself have seen it breaking couple of times. Twice or thrice, I too have felt the ‘heat’. “Chutta pedai kedachaa thaan neengal ellam uruppaduvel…” (You will flourish later, only if you taste the hot caning from me now) - His standard dialogue! But being a fairly brilliant student, I was generally spared of his wrath.

Appa was a disciplinarian to the core. On the other hand, Amma was very compassionate, and understanding. She could talk convincingly - on any subject! I learnt many a mantras from her which I can recite even today, and several keerthanas, varnams, my God! So many values she had planted in my tiny brains - values which helped me quite a bit in the latter part of my life.

She used to sing very well, but Appa wasn’t particularly enthusiastic about music! (You don’t relish the finer aspects of life when stark realities are staring at your face, perhaps! These finer aspects are most often overlooked, wantonly or otherwise!)

In fact, quite a few girls of the village used to come to my mother to learn a new song, or a new mantra. It is still a terrific puzzle to me to understand how she managed to learn new songs like “Bhavayami Raghuramam” and all that much before they became popular! Our neighbour had a radio, and perhaps amma would be listening to the kutcheries being broadcast, (all houses had a single partition wall and the happenings around – the arguments, the ‘oodals’ of day time, and the ‘koodals’ after the sunset – in the neighbour’s house were for free public entertainment!) and the records played during festivals, especially Navaratri. She had a tremendous memory, and grasping power. I could have inherited them, partly, at least!

After PU, I was getting ready to go to Bombay to try my fortune as a stenographer or PA to some executive in a private firm. But Amma was very adamant, “Ore pullai thane, chamathu, nannaa padikkarathu. Eppidiyaavathu mela padippikkalaam”. (He is our only son – and very smart; studying well also. Somehow we will make him study further) She wanted to see her son as Engineer. Whatever meagre income Appa brought through upaadhyaayam was just enough to run the family. She would make pickles and sell them, do all kinds of odd jobs like stitching petticoats, gowns, blouses and all that. By God’s grace, I got a scholarship for fees waiver, and mess allowance, but then the other expenses were heavy. It is still a mystery to me how Amma managed! Five years at NSS rolled off just like that!

When I passed in first division, she must have been the happiest person. Appa just gave a wry smile, when I showed him my registration number in tiny black letters under the heading ‘first class’ in “Mathrubhumi” newspaper! Surely, they must have hoped that this guy will now take care of them for the remaining days. As destiny would have it, the sparkle in Radhika’s eyes was much more powerful than the hopes and expectations of my parents at that point in time! Not that I have much regrets. I only wish I did not act in an utterly cowardice manner as I did!  Rather than facing the situation boldly, both of us decided to run away, fearing chaos. Radhika was Ezhava, and I was from a highly orthodox Brahmin family. Society was not as permissive and understanding as it is today. Both families would have come down heavily on us, and we were really scared of our lives! Radhika’s two elder brothers were local ‘dadas’ and I am sure they would not have taken things kindly. They would have made a pulp of me when they came to know. Everything seemed insignificant at that time. And it was on a similar foggy Ther eve, we fled and took the train to Bombay.. Rest, as the saying goes, is history.

After Uday totally severed all connections with us, we were pinning all our hopes on Sandhya. Money we had in plenty. But at some point in life, you yearn for something else. Sandhya gave us no clue till the last moment, and on a fine Saturday evening, she came home with a boy and introduced him as her husband! “Meet Mathew Varghese, my husband”, she said, “We got married at the Registrar Office this afternoon. And tomorrow is the formal wedding at Byculla CSI church”. Both were colleagues, apparently. The earth was literally caving in under our feet at that moment !

Next morning Radhika had a heart attack. Though she survived, her health was going from bad to worse. Exactly after 10 months, she left for her abode leaving me high and dry. Old age without the support of your wife is terrible, let me tell you. I would call Radhika a dozen times every day, realizing with a shock that she is no more with me. But then, she was living at every inch of our palatial bungalow. I never bothered to find out about Uday or Sandhya. It is after all their life, and they have every right to live it the way they want. God bless them!

Later, I met my close friend Venkittu at VT by chance. He told me about the pathetic end of Appa and Amma. I wept like a 3 year old when I learnt that mother died soon after I ditched every one. And, there was only father to light her pyre. Seems he collapsed after lighting it and breathed his last! Apparently, it was the talking point for all the nearby villages for a very long time.

Here I am, standing alone, on the banks of Kalpathy river, or what is popularly known as “Neela” river, (Neela in Sanskrit means fish) flowing without any emotion, or care for all the happenings around. I don’t know how much water has flown through since that fateful night few decades ago. Pretty much, must be!

The sun is slowly showing up, and the villages are getting active for the grand finale. Another three days, everyone would forget everything; the only thought is the celebrations, and taking good care of the guests. After the Theru, (Chariot festival) I will be going to the Govindarajapuram village to register my name in the society which deputes Brahmins for Sapindeekaranam (10th day function after the death of someone in the family) wherever there is a need. All the wealth me and Radhika amssed, I have donated to a charitable society in Matunga which takes cre of the education of brahmin children. I am very clear about the noble path I will be treading for the rest of my life. It is a strong conviction and I have chosen my path for the rest of my life. What better way to amend for the pangs of sorrow I had inflicted on my parents...... !

PS:

                       

The story is out and out a figment of imagination; any resemblance to the characters – living or dead – is somewhat intentional..! To an extent, the content summarizes my childhood experiences, observing the happenings around, and most importantly, bits of information gathered by listening to people, and the ocean of knowledge they gave me.

Please do not ask me what is the ‘moral’ of the story, ’coz there isn’t any!

If any one feels hurt after reading this, well it is your problem!

For more insight into the “history” part of Kalpathy the ‘chariot festival’, & origin of Kerala Brahmins (‘Pattars’ as they are popularly known!) please read PART 1 – ‘(HISTORY)’by the same author

http://anandforever-anand.blogspot.com/2016/11/kalpathy-down-memory-lane-1-history.html

Anand

SRILANKA TRIP - CONCLUDING PART & EPILOGUE BY RADHA MADAM

SRI LANKA TRIP – FOURTH DAY

20.1.2018

Sangathaanai Bhairavaswamy Kandaswamy temple

As usual, woke up at 5 o’clock itself and got ready. Today’s specialty is the tricolor – Geetha on Saffron color saree, Amirdha in white, and me in Green … !

Breakfast at 7.00 sharp – iddlies with vada and chutney and sambar for side dish. OK. Both the vans speeding at full throttle on the road to Thirukkoneswar.  En route, darshan at the Bhairava Kandaswamy Murugan temple located at Sangathanai.

Darshan of ‘moolavar’ and in the sannidhis at the circle. Idol of Narayana with devis. Deeparadhana etc.

At this place we saw a government school for children (Pre-school). The premises seem to have been renovated recently and was being maintained neatly. Children come in all kinds of vehicles like auto, bike, car etc. no class difference – all people put their children in govt. schools only. We could see the statues of Saraswati, and Tiruvalluvar installed atop the main building. And, many of the school we saw on our way, had the name board “Padasalai’ written, and had the statue of Saraswati.

On the road towards Thirukoneswaran

Travel via Kilinochi. The entire area is now under the control of the Srilankan army. Many of the buildings damaged during the fighting are now being renovated. Also new buildings are coming up. ‘Asagamina’ – one of the Srilankan soldier covered himself with bombs and blocked the attackers – there was a memorial for him. Also we saw a memorial for an Indian soldier.

Long journey…. Again another round of ‘Anthakshari’ – dancing, singing, and shouting throwing all inhibitions. Full of life and energy. Songs in all languages for the selected titles like ‘mother’, brother’, sister’, flower’ etc, flowing incessantly. Padma’s rendering of Ramayana sloka (with action) was really enjoyable. All got down at a place called ‘Peyadu Palam’ (Gandhathiraigai) and had tender coconut. The nearby nursery with so many lovely flowers and plants was real treat to our eyes.

Around1.00, we reached a Buddhist monastery. Rest room facilities were availed. Enjoyed the garma garm ‘thayir sadhom’ – Manivannan’s own preparation, along with vada, pickles, and mixture. Took the lunch sitting in one of the class rooms there. I made out a poem instantly on the curd rice of Manivannan, and read out for everyone. Everyone appreciated the poem so also the creator - Manivannan – for the curd rice. How about tasting it once again?

தயிர் சாதம் - மணிவண்ணன் கைவண்ணம்

   

மகத்தான தயிர்சாதம்                                       magathaana thayir sadhom

பொன்மன புத்தர் ஆலயம்                              Ponmana Budhar aalayam 

          புனிதஇடம் எம் உணவகம்                             Punitha idam em unavagam

          வெண்மை தயிர்சாதமிதில்                           venmai  thayir sadhom ithil

வட்டமிட்ட பழவகைகள்                               vattamitta pazha vagaikal

           எண்ணத்தையும் இனிக்க வைக்கும்         eNNathaiyum inikka vaikkum

           என்றும் மறக்க இயலாத                              enrum marakka iyalatha                 தயிர்சாதம்.                                                      THAYIR SADHOM

Manivannan took snaps and video. The journey continued. Suddenly I realized that my dairy was missing ..!  Ransacked the bags of both of us, but lo! it wasn’t there. I was so sad and upset – all my jottings and recordings were in the diary. I was at a loss as to how I could retrieve all those thoughts. I could see all the members were at the same state of mind – maybe I had left the diary at the monastery after reading the poem……. Oh my God! What language could not convey, perhaps our body language spoke…

(by the way, talking about ‘Body Language’, that’s  my favorite topic – and I dwell almost half a day on this, in my sessions on ‘Soft Skills’ training, usually – about all that, may be later…)

Coming back to the effect of our body language, the driver ‘Reggi’ coolly reversed the van and drove to the Buddhist joint. Unfortunately, we could not locate the ‘treasure’ there also. I was almost in tears. All were telling that I had carried it back, and Soorya was 100% sure that I had safely kept it back in my bag… once again searched the bag lying in my ‘throne’, and it sprung out from one of the inner compartments ….  To cut a long story short, the sigh of relief from me as well as others could be heard for several miles.. ! Thanking for the co-operation of all, Amirdha promised ‘ice cream’ treat to everyone.

The journey continued (after meeting the other van which was waiting for us, worried as to what happened) towards ‘Vavuniya’ on the ‘Trinkomalee’ ghat sector.

            

 ‘Kanya’ hot water springs

 Around 2 o’clock, we reached the springs. It was like a tank of size 100 X 100 at a depth of around 30 feet. You get down and find 5 square shaped wells, all having hot water inflow. Legend has it that Ravenna pierced these 5 places with his arrow, generating hot springs and did the final rites for his mother. ‘Gokarnam’ was close by. As the years went by, Buddha vihars started coming up. One could see the bombed temples scattered everywhere.

Amirdha and Geetha went down and sprinkled the hot water on their heads, brought some for me too. Took their snaps from atop. We could see several people offering prayers here, taking bath at the springs. Several shops were lined up there, selling art materials made of cane, glass, beads etc. I postponed buying such curios for a later time – only to realize the big mistake I was making! However, Amirdha go some crystal idols of Budha.

                      Lakshmi Narayana Temple

Reached Lakshmi Narayana temple after two hours drive. This is a newly constructed temple. All ten avatars of Mahavishnu can be seen here. All the deities, paintings, sannidhis etc give a rich look. Slokas suprabhatams etc., are being played continuously. Photography was allowed only outside and we took few photos.

Left the place around 5.30.                                                   

Thirukkoneswaram temple

It took about 30 minutes to reach this temple. Took an auto from where the van stopped. This ancient temple, situated on the sea shore, dates back to the sixth century.

The story goes that while on his way with the Siva linga for his mother, Ravana could not complete the mission, thanks to the mischief of Ganesha. Full of rage, Ravana was supposed to have come back and split the old Thirukkoneswaram temple with his sword. One of the Pancheswaran temples, there is a huge concrete idol of Siva (Thirkkoneswara) in the new Temple. There is a cave outside, and you go inside, you can see the damaged remains of the old temple. And you have come out of another exit. (Manivannan didn’t allow me to go inside, however, Amirdha and Geetha went) the whole temple and the premises are under the control of the army.

Kaliamman Temple

Belonging to the 11th century, you can see massive concrete idols, so also lovely paintings on the ceiling. Various forms of kali, epics, etc., etc. Awesome concrete statues, causing fear in your minds, border art forms, the entire space is full of art work – not an inch of free space.. However, there are no records or details available to connect many of the statues with the respective puranas.  

Several devotees were squatting and meditating. Some of the members from our group also joined. Evening harathi for the deities on the ring, and finally the deeparadhana with the 5 lamps for the Kaliamman. Oh… What a rare sight! The deeparadhana with five lamps in slow motion one after the other in awesome sequence was something to be seen to describe. There was bakthi coupled with fear in the minds of all – I could see that. By now, it was dark, and hence no stop over at ‘Petti Kottai’ beach. And we returned to the hotel.

Night stay at Hotel ‘Apple Five’

We reqched the hotel qround8.00, had dinner ‘kutchery’ as usual – dosas, iddlies with the accompaniment of sambar and chutney… returned to respective rooms and fell asleep.

SRI LANKA TRIP – FIFTH DAY

21.1.2018

HOTEL APPLE FIVE HAPPENINGS

As usual, had bath at 5.30 – me got into blue saree, Amirdha on Yellow chudis, and Geetha on Blue choodis. Had a small walk outside. Vasantha – Manohari duo were standing at the balcony, and Amirdha promptly clicked her mobile shutter. Had breakfast – tasty pooris with masala, and dosas with chutney – specially prepared by Mani. Another round of walk outside the hotel. 

Sivaraman’s morning wishes, as usual. Today’s journey started off with the prayer song from Anand sir – ‘Alai payuthe kannaa’ on my part, I rendered ‘Aindu karathinai’ – the vinayaka sloka. On the way, saw a huge nice durgha at ‘Aandaankulam’ – nice architectural job…

Kanthale – Kodhamale reservoirs

The journey continued. Beautiful twin reservoirs ‘Kanthale’ and ‘Kodhamale’. The city gets its water supply from the former. Water from the latter was being used manufacture Masala material, ‘Rani’ soap, flavoured milk in the surrounding factories. On both sides of the road, we could see healthy cows, and buffalos.

Fresh, sweet curd was being sold in tiny mutkas at the roadside shops. Many such shops making good business. We got down and had a taste of the curd. Mixing honey with the curd is their specialty. Manivannan got enough quantity of curd from the shop owner of ‘Vishank’ – he took selfie with Mani – ‘valuable’ customer! Back to the bus, we were witness to some interesting scenes. 

Elsewhere, the slim Mr. Raman was busy taking selfie with the sales girls in the shops. Other gents were making jibes at him and heckling him – but Raman was full of concentration at his job. This, in fact prompted many to become creative – here are some samples….

பார்த்தால் நரம்பு, செய்வதோ குறும்பு          அமிர்தா

Paarthaal narambu seyvaatho kurumbu                    Amirdha

பார்க்கும் பெண் கரும்பு                                       மணிவண்ணன்

Paarkkum pen karumbu                                             Manivannan

கணவன் கை இரும்பு

இதுவே உன் வரம்பு     மீறினால் பிரம்பு        கீதா

Kanavan kai irumbu 

Idhuve un varambu meeRinaal pirambu                    Geetha

Everybody enjoyed and had a hearty laugh, really…

The driver for his part was ‘teaching’ us several ‘singala’ words as the journey continued. Mainly words like ‘Sthuthi’ (thanks), ‘Aayu buvan’ (Welcome), ‘Kiri’ (curd), ‘kose’ (tree) etc. we continued on the singiri road. Greenery everywhere. In between, here and there, few ‘villas’ – farm houses. There is a fort atop silgiri – made of natural rock. Trekking groups usually go on expedition to this fort. The place is called ‘dabaRana’. There was a tea shop by the road side – run by army. All had tea there. There was a lovely big water container shaped like a tea pot. Many took snaps at that spot. 

Buddha Temple - Tampale

Next destination was the Budhist temple at Tampale town. As soon as we entered the town, the top portion of the huge golden statue of Budha could be seen from house tops. More of Sinhalees population here. For a change, we could also see many foreign tourists here, unlike other places we had been passing through earlier. School students were found wearing the traditional Srilankan dress here. Mostly white colour.  The golden statue of Budha was situated at the apex point of the temple – in meditation posture.

Buddha museum

Beneath the huge Buddha statue is situated the beautiful museum exhibiting material connected with Buddha. You have to climb 50 steps roughly to reach there. Entrance fee was Rs. 200/- 

Many backed out initially. However in my zeal to see the place, I climbed the 50 steps chanting ‘Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa’ …. 12 of us from Nilwala II went inside, Nilwala I members all went to see ‘Spice garden’. Normal Buddha statues and golden models from different countries like Cambodia, Japan, Thailand, Myanmar, India, Korea Srilanka etc., were exhibited separately. In front of the statues were round lotus forms made of colorful cloth pieces. The entire wall was filled with the paintings and art forms depicting the life history of Buddha. 

Anand sir was explaining something to the young Israeli tourist girl for a long time (?) All of us took group photos.

Centuries old manuscripts etched out in special leaves were also exhibited. Detailed descriptions on how the manuscripts were prepared, age old stone inscriptions, statues of Buddha in stone, the ‘Oath of Office’ by the Buddha bikshus, elephants processions etc., were kept as statues as well as paintings. There were records showing the incidents concerning the geneology of ‘Rangiri Tambula Sangha’.  

‘Spice Garden’ – Herbal Park

Nilwala I set off by 1.00 towards ‘Spice Garden’. Huge tall trees right through the route – presenting the look of green tents as the trees on both sides of the road join together... our friend was playing Sinhalese songs – colourful flags in front of most of the shops. Several ads for different brands of tea.

Reached the park around 2.00 (apparently the other van reached just about 5 minutes back only). Benches were neatly arranged in hall resembling tent made of mud. All around huge tall trees. Felt like sitting at an air conditioned oasis. Sumptuous lunch by 2.15 – Sambar rice, curd rice with pickles, mixture etc (courtesy Manivannan’s kai vannam). Sambar rice was indeed nice, but not the curd rice. The cut pieces of Durboose, papaya, and Pineapple kept there tasted really good. The Nature cure doctor took us all to the herbal park (taking his ‘disciples’ also along with him), and explained in details each and every herbs, the medicinal values of the oil and cream extracted from them etc.Thereafter, all of us assembled at a place resembling class room. Enquiring about the ailments of each and every one ( joint pain, neck pain etc) and got his students to give ‘sample’ massage to men folk. I had severe leg pain, and hence had foot massage. It was quite soothing then. Then we were taken to another area where such oil, cream etc., were up for sale, only snag being that the price tags showed 3500, 2500, 1500 etc. all of us ‘escaped’ from there, without buying anything. Only Geetha and some others bought some medicines. The journey continued towards ‘Kandy’ via ‘Matharai’. Huge mariamman temple, saw from inside the van only.

PATTINIAMMAN TEMPLE

Went to this temple at 5.00 PM. Another name for this temple is ‘Kannaki temple’. Very tiny idol. The curtain is moved and the idol is shown ONLY after putting 10 rupees in the archana plate…. The premises is quite vast. It also houses a huge Buddha idol, Hanuman temple, and a church. Nice to see gods of all faith in one place – proof of true secular attitude. Devotees by and large visit places of worship wearing white dress. Lanterns are lit by devotees in a central location. There is a huge banyan tree – they call it Bodhi vriksha. One has to climb three tiers of steps to worship. People carry water in small plastic cans and sprinkle the water on the ‘Bodhi tree’. I didn’t want to risk climbing the steps, and so sat outside watching the public visiting the shrine. Nearby is another temple where the tooth of Buddha is preserved. Ticket cost was 600/- rupees and hence many didn’t venture.

Around 6.30, Amirdha and Geetha chanted the sloka (“Nam yogo Rango Giyo”), taught by Padma. It seems when you chant, the evil thought vanish from your mind, and gives so much of power and strength to your mind. Amirdha confirmed that she could experience the change after chanting this ‘mantra’.

All temples in the premises are controlled by Buddhists.

Night stay at Kandy

Reached Kandy after a tiring, but eventful day. Night stay was at ‘Hotel Charlton’. 5 ladies from Nilwala I stayed with us and others stayed in a different hotel.. as suggested by Mani, we walked upto a hotel by name “Balaji Dosa”. We had plain dosa, masala dosa, Pooris etc. the sambar was really tasty. However the chutney smelled of raw onion. Walked back to the hotel. Very mediocre hotel.

TV. Taps in the bathroom, AC etc., were not functioning. Even the bed was so hard. On top of all this, someone walking on the terrace and making noise throughout the night. Being very tired I slept off, but Amirdha and Geetha weren’t that lucky.

SRI LANKA TRIP – SIXTH DAY

22.01.2018

SELF-INTRODUCTION BY MEMBERS

The journey today started somewhat differently. Everyone was recollecting their life’s funny, interesting, and sweet experiences, travelling backwards. Mainly about how they got married etc. Anand started the narration with lot of imagination, and humour. Usha for her part recalled how she gave her consent at the time of ‘girl seeing’ by singing the ‘lucky’ family song ‘Karpagavalli nin….’…!

Next was my turn – I recalled how my grandmother, Chellammal, and mother, Kunjammal bravely faced life’s challenges… about their prudence, and ability to take bold decisions in such a social set up that prevailed then, about how she pursued her studies outside her home town, after losing her husband at the age of 20, leaving her children back, about her bravado and ability to study at Madurai Gandhigram, and her courage to join medical line and work with service mentality etc. also about the courage and selfless attitude of 35 year old Chellammaal, who brought up the children along with her own. I described them as the ‘modern’ woman as envisaged by poet Bharathi.

My daughter Amirdha on her part recalled her adolescent dreams, how she could not understand her husband initially, and how she understood his good qualities as days went by, and how she was able to gel with her in-laws and his other relatives. Hearing her account, an emotional and tearful Geetha recollected about her loving parents, and about the love and compassion of her brothers and how they took upon themselves the role of her parents and brought her up so well. .

Sivaraman – Saraswati couple recalled about how they met each other first time, and how she accepted him as her partner, instantly etc., in their own humourous style.

Soorya – Moorthy couple told about the marriage within the family acquaintance, how she got married soon after passing +2, continuing her studies, taking up teaching, Moorthy being professor in the finance area etc..

Those sitting next to them explained how Seetha and Mani described about how their wedding took place etc., in a hushed tone…

Next was Kasi’s turn. He was all pride when he said he is an RSS supporter, and associated with the media. While talking about Padma, he said how he liked her after seeing her boldness, so also her true and honest service mentality.

However, the climax came from Padma, when she confidently described about being pet to her parents, about how bold she was even as a young girl, about her own decision to love and marry Kasi, overcoming the stiff opposition from both families – absolute clarity in her matter of fact narration. She also dwelled into how she has devoted herself entirely in the service of destitute girls and women, and the aged, how she takes care of girls who were victims of sexual harassment, and those who were forcibly driven to the ‘oldest’ profession on earth etc. Also, she beautifully explained how as the CEO in the local branch of the Kasturba Gandhi National Welfare Trust, she is managing a school with about 1200 girls, how she helps them to support themselves after graduation, helping them to get married etc.

The same Padma to whom I got introduced at the Chennai airport on Day 1, stood tall like a colossus in our hearts of all of us, today

Next came our hero, Manivannan, who started off with a sober note on how he had to live with his mother who was deserted by his father, and how all their relatives disowned them etc. (Remember the Tamil film song, “En Soga Kathayai Kelu Thaikulame….)

How he mustered courage and wanted to prove a point – passed his engineering diploma, working part time in hotels to meet his expenses, how he climbed the success steps slowly but steadily, how he loved his neighbor Usha and married her with the full consent f his mother, how he left the well-paying permanent job, and took up this Travel agency, his experience of interacting with many people, and seeing many places and studying various cultures, how his wife motivated him, and was the force behind his success etc.  He was very proud to say that he is a crore pathi today owning a car and a house, also recalling how the relatives who scoffed at them once come in search of him today.

All were full of appreciation for he has come up in life because of sheer hard work and dedication. He was a son, or grandson, or elder brother, or younger brother to all the members – as genuinely expressed and congratulated by everyone.

The poet in me instantly made out a small couplet which I sang for the benefit of all..

கவிதை (poem)

கைவண்ணம் அங்குகண்டோம்           Kai vannam angu kandom 

செயல்வண்ணம் இங்குகண்டோம்     Seyal vannam ingu kandom

சொல்வண்ணம் இன்றுகண்டோம்      Sol vannam indru kandom

வாழி நீடுழி வளர்க வளர்க.                    Vazhee needoozhi, valarga, valarga

Thereafter, we crossed the vast Nuvar Elia reservoir – Giri kari reservoir. Due to paucity of time, we enjoyed the waters sitting inside the van only – though boats were seen on the bank. Padma continued to distribute ‘energy balls’ – made of dry fruits – treating all with murukku, sweet amla, kakra etc. at regular intervals.

SEETHAMMA TEMPLE

Entrance is of medium height gold-coated. All idols were female, in different forms and poses. Recently renovated temple, the utsav idols are of Rama and Seetha. ‘Sangu’ and ‘Chakra’ engraved at the entrance. Archanas done after you tell your name, Gothra, and birth star. Adjacent to the temple is a lovely stream and behind it is a dense forest. Legend says the forest is ‘Ashoka Forest’ which we are familiar in Ramayana. Hanuman met Seetha Devi here (called Seetha Elia), and gave her the ring sent by Rama. This incident can be seen at this palce (as concrete idol). Nearby are three huge holes looking like the foot prints of elepahnat – two are filled with water. While one version (by word of mouth, of course) is that these imprints are those of Ravana’s elephant, the other claims that they belong to Hanuman.

Next, we came to the nearby Budh Vihar. Unable to bear the pathos of the scandal about her, which even Rama believed, Seetha is supposed to have generated fir and jumped into that (Agni Pravesh). There is a note on this event at the particular spot also. The premises is maintained by Buddhists and the entrance fee is Rs. 25/- As of now, one could see Hindu deities in many such Buddhist-managed sites. The journey continued. While crossing a place called ‘Vellimada’, driver Reggie was all smiles when he said that was his native place…! I could also recollect the other driver Duvindu having messaged to his brother to wait on the way in his village while the van passed. That was to hand over the curd which he had bought earlier ……

Again ‘Idiappam’ for lunch – everybody pushed them inside with helping from the curd purchased en route. Thankfully, I had few slices of bread which I consumed with the curd. Amirdha’s vomiting was somewhat under control.

RAVANA WATERFALLS

Next was ‘Ravana Waterfalls’ – Huge lake. Some had tea at the nearby tea shop. Some were using the rest rooms. Amirdha was busy ‘clicking’ the tiny sparrow. She didn’t eat anything as a precautionary measure. Sivaraman and Manivannan, got us some bread. Nagaraj obliged us by taking several photos in the background of the stream.

Sella Kadirgamam Murugan

Next destination was ‘Sella Kadirgamam Murugan temple. Involved long walk. Usual flower shops etc., were found to be closed. Main deity is Vel (Spear). Saw ‘harathi’, went round and saw Ganesh sannidhis also. The pain was increasing, and I had to walk very slowly. Others had already left, and we could not follow the route. In fact, panic started creeping in, and with the help of cell phone torch we somehow reached the van. In the meantime, Moorthy was already coming in search of us. Everybody was relieved. We were worried that others may be waiting for us unnecessarily and wasting precious time. I thanked Lord Ayyappa for saving us from the embarrassment.

ELEPHANTS CROSSING THE ROAD – EN ROUTE

The Journey continued towards Kadirgamam. Both sides of the road were dense forest with Karuvelam trees. It was daily routine for the wild animals to cross the road after 6.30 PM. Therefore we had to cross the area before 6.30, and the drivers of both vans sped on full throttle. We could see sign boards mentioning the trespassing of  elephants, tiger, cheetah etc. duvendu by virtue of his previous experience had with him good stock of fruits like wood apple etc. in fact, we saw two elephants on the way, one standing a little inside, and the other on the road side enjoying the wood apple thrown by Duvendu…. Much as we tried, but could not take photos.

Kadirgamam

Upon reaching Kadirgamam, we dumped our baggage at Hotel Samwill, and immediately started for the temple which was to open at 7.15. The place is called ‘Katara gama’ in Sinhalese and ‘Kadir gamam’ in Tamil. Mammoth temple, with several Buddha idols. Right at the entrance, huge, sparkling red neon ‘vel’ (spear). Large compound wall. There was a Buddha temple outside, which was well lit and nicely decorated.

Went inside. There was no idol or vel. We could only see only a colourful curtain with the painting of Lord Muruga with 6 faces and 12 hands, flanked by Valli and Deivanai. Devotees were seen worshipping the curtain. Vibhuti Prasad was distributed by budhists clad in sparkling white dress. devotees could offer whatever amount they feel like, and the ‘archaka’ returns one currency – it may be more or it may be less than what you offered..! Similarly we prayed the ‘curtain’ vinayak also.

NIGHT STAY – SAMWILL HOTEL

On our way back to the hotel, we had dinner at the govt. owned vegetarian hotel – idles, dosa, two types of sambar, chutney etc. last night at hotel in Srilanka. So, packed our luggage suitably..

SRI LANKA TRIP – SEVENTH DAY

23.1.2018

SWIMMING POOL – SAMWILL HOTEL

All three of us were ready by 6.30 next morning. I was in Jamoon colour saree, Amridha in white colour designed kurta, and Geetha was in Blue colour saree. Men were having a ball at the swimming pool – Anand, Sreeram, Thangavel, Nagaraj etc. singing “Pon onru kanden, pen angu illai..”, and enjoying. Their better halves were heckling and making fun of them – but enjoying the sight all the same. We took selfies with the swimming pool in the backdrop. Later, Manivannan collected all the 26 members at the pool side and wanted to brief about the day’s program. As usual, it started with prayer song ‘Jaga janani’ from Anand. After the briefing, Mani profusely thanked each and every one for their excellent co-operation, some of the members also spoke on the occasion. Heeding to the request of others, Padma gave details about  her service organization in a nut shell.

My memories travelled back to those days and I tried to visualize how another similar service-minded gem of a lady by name Soundaram Ramachandran helped my mother to join Gandhigram at Madurai and to come up in life……

Next was the inevitable breakfast at the nearby vegetarian restaurant with the ‘proverbial’ idiappam and idlies with chutney, and of course tea. Responding to my request for recording their thought s about the trip, almost everyone barring one or two gave their notings to me, with their honest and sincere thoughts expressed neatly, and clearly. On my part, I too recorded my thoughts in the form of a poem, and read out for all. Padma recited a poem in Telugu describing all the members. Soorya translated it to English for the benefit of all.

OFF TO COLOMBO

The journey continued towards Colombo. Forest route, once again. For the last time, Anand as usual, started off with the prayer song, ‘Pullanguzhal kodutha moongilgale..’ and that being one of my favorite songs I too sang it for myself silently. The pleasant ride reminded all about the scenic natural beauty of Kerala.

The pangs of sorrow due to realization of the fact that we all will be parting company in a few hours, after a thoroughly enjoyable fraternal sojourn of the past one week, perhaps resulted in an eerie silence in the ambience, and the usual cacophony was conspicuous by its absence, no one wanted to show their pathos outwardly, though.

Suddenly all had a jolt when the front tyre of our van burst. The smart drivers immediately got all the people to get down (except me, of course!) and contacted the other van and took the help of the ‘big made’ driver, Periz. In no time, the three of them executed such a smart job of replacing the tyre in the shortest possible time.

In the meantime, other members went round the nearby resort. Also took snaps of the peacocks seen roaming about here and there. 


Once the van was ready, we continued our trip. On the one side of the road was the beautiful blue ‘Isaki’ reservoir and on the other side were the paddy fields, resembling a spread out emerald mat. It was indeed a feast for our eyes to watch the white cranes taking off, landing, standing at one place – overall giving the appearance of a blooming garden with hundreds of white flowers. We crossed towns like Diyunagara, Ambalappola etc., enjoying the pleasing sight of small streams following us…

DANDEESWARAM TEMPLE

We reached Dandeeswaram temple located at Devi Duwara, around 12.30. We could clearly make out how the Siva and Vishnu temples have been converted Budha vihaars. In the temple described as Siva temples, only a tiny Nandhi idol was seen. It was obvious was that the temple was very ancient for sure. The individual stone pillars neatly placed in a row give ample proof of the fact. A 50 feet cement Budha statue (in standing posture) was under construction outside the premises. 

At the former site of Vishnu temple, one could see the paintings on Vishnu and there is a cement idol of the Lord standing with spouses (made at a later date). One could see the gradual transformation of ancient Hindu temples taken over by Buddhists, at several places in Srilanka. 

Lunch at around 1.40. Madura St. Mary’s Convent right opposite to where we were sitting. On the other side, Children’s Park where kids were having a gala time, and the blue waves kissing the shore. A foreign tourist family with three small kids were enjoying their lunch at the park. 

As usual for the third time in a row, manivannan served his own preparation of Thayir sadhom, with a spread of apple, pineapple, grapes etc (but without pickles). However vadas purchased from some road side shop was served. Though curd rice was not as tasty as before, everyone ate silently. After the amazing experience of the past 6 days, nobody was in a mood to complain – reason could also be the feelings of sorrow, because of the realization that today will be the final day….

Amridha stood up to her earlier promise of treating all with ice cream – remember the ‘lost and found’ episode of my ‘diary’ earlier(?). Everyone enjoyed the cone ice cream. Lot of photos and videos were taken. Many were reminiscing that the park reminded them of the ‘Santhome’ beach at Mylapore

AT COLOMBO CITY

The ride continued towards Colombo. We saw a brand new huge green building surrounded by sea, like a lengthy trench… The drivers told us that that was the new Parliament building.  As soon as we entered Colombo city, the drivers started enthusiastically explaining each and every land mark. Lengthy, broad, and clean roads. It was indeed heartening to observe all drivers meticulously following traffic rules. We got down at a mall called ‘House of fashions’, which was fairly big with 4 or 5 floors and lot of items were up for sale. Friends from the other van also joined us. However, we didn’t feel like buying anything, because the items were very mediocre – there was not even anything worth buying as ‘gift’. Finally, we got something, - just to exhaust the left over Srilankan currency. All felt like having wasted precious hours.

Travel continued. Crossed Old Parliament house, Indian consulate, American consulate etc. we also trekked along some of the densely populated and heavy traffic localities. It was a fact that the disappointment of having not enough time to enjoy the rich, wealthy and prosperous face of Colombo, remained.

COLOMBO BY NIGHT

Dinner was at a place slightly away at a vegetarian joint by name ‘Saravana Hotel’ where we were told that good tasty food was available. All had dosa (resembling thick Uthappam, though), served by smart young girls. Also had ‘yogurt’ – similar to ice cream. Wading through the city roads once again - everybody shouting ‘Colombo by Night’ - reached the beach (harbour). Watching the line of shops at the shore with the sign board “Nana”. Took snaps though the light was very poor. Many were sitting on the steps and enjoying the evening breeze. Huge kites flying high reading advertisements for different products. Kite shops below. One could see dimly lit ancient buildings and orthodox style architecture at the bank, so also some new buildings with bright sparkling illumination.

We could also see ‘Hotel Galadari’ where our honourable Prime Minister Sri. Narendra Modi stayed during his visit to Srilanka. You all are aware that our dear PM has not only made us proud, and earned our utmost respect, but also created a niche for himself at whichever country he visited, and was rightfully showered with total love and respect of the leaders and people of those countries. We could physically feel and see the efforts he is taking to improve the relations and goodwill between the two countries, so also experience the amount of hope and love the common people of the country had on Sri. Modi. It really made us proud to see the photos of Modi and Abdul Kalam in many of the hotels there. We also saw the new harbor – China has taken upon themselves the construction of the harbour – as per the agreement between China and Srilanka.

TOWARDS CHENNAI (AT LAST..!)

The two vans then sped towards the final destination – the Colombo Airport… Sivaraman had collected some money from all of us to be given to the drivers as a token of appreciation for their sincere, and safe driving during the past one week. I was asked to give them the amount collected. I was aghast and thrilled at the extent of love and respect my co-passengers had given me…. May be it was His will. Reggi made the shyness-coated announcement that he was getting married in February – the decibels once again touched the roof of the van when all started wishing him happy married life….

And then… then, it was time to bid adios. All shook hands and reluctantly murmured ‘byeee…’. Everyone got down with their baggage. I couldn’t control my tears when the two drivers fell at my feet and sought my blessings. Everyone thanked them once again.  

As per the directions, we all went via gate no. 3, and underwent the usual security checks, scanning etc. collected our boarding passes and all of us assembled at one place. All were anxiously waiting for the 1.05 flight to Chennai, some were already half asleep. We went round the shops at the airport, and took snaps. All the items were too costly. We just got a few costly cards. Once again good bye to friends… and boarded the flight. I was feeling somewhat restless thanks to the leg pain. I didn’t take any of the snacks or drinks offered during the flight, since they were untimely. The journey was of one and a half hours duration. Touched the soil of our motherland, and passed through the routine checks. Thereafter, all took their own routes. The flock of 26 birds that were flying high happily for 7 days resumed their journey in different directions. Coming out of those 7 days when time literally stood still, all were returning to their own ‘real’ life. Sivaraman who was hitherto symbol of heckling, joking, and making fun of all, was in tears when he told me that we have moved as one flock like sisters, brothers, parents etc., and parting is really painful. It was then, it was at that moment that I realized that during the trip, I didn’t see places, but I was seeing hearts.

I think the feelings of Radha madam was akin to what I felt after returning to my Chennai home after three days being part of Kalpathy Radhotsavam some 12 years ago. This is what I wrote in my blog about ‘Kalpathy’ then ..….

Here I am, just back home and trying to get into reality after being transported to the past when time stood still and I am once again in my (more volatile) elements. Those wonderful three days, when the clock turned backwards, were history repeating itself. One had to be there in the midst of things to understand the feeling of exhilaration of time travel.  I shudder at the thought of almost having missed this wonderful re-enacting of all those joyous moments I enjoyed in that ethereal settings on the foothills of the misty Palakkad mountains.

Despite the pressures and commitments associated with our advanced years and the roller coaster ride that life is made of today, those that had made it, slipped into the mood with gay abandon, ensuring that their children, and in some cases, grand children were very much witness to the entire proceedings (my son who was quite reluctant to accompany me initially, said that we guys are extremely lucky!!! And, he wanted to know when we're visiting the place next??).  The comraderie and fellowship was beyond the realms of one’s wildest imagination. …………

Coming back,  Amirdha’s husband was already at the airport, and waiting. He took us home in his car. CHENNAI – ONCE AGAIN…..

For the list giving names of towns in srilanka please go the wiki page link given below

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

இனி!!!!!!!!!                                                     

III முடிவுரை

ஏழு நாள், ஏழு நொடிகளாக கரைந்து போன ஸ்ரீலங்கா ராமாயன சுற்றுலா மனதிற்கு புது உற்சாகத்தை அளித்தது என்பதுதான் உண்மை. பலநிலையில் எங்கெங்கோ வாழ்ந்த 26 பேர் ஒன்று கூடி ஒருவரரொடு ஒருவர் கூடி கலந்து ஒன்றாகிப் போன அனுபவம். புறப்படும் போது முகமறியாது இருந்தவர்கள்

பிரியும் போது ஒருதாய் மக்களாய்,ஒரு குடும்பமாய் உணரவைத்தது இப்பயணம்.

பயணத்தில் பார்க்கும் இடங்களைப்பற்றி ஒரளவு நெட்'ல் பார்த்து இருந்ததால் பார்த்த இடங்கள் பெருத்த ஏமாற்றத்தை அளிக்கவில்லை. சிறப்பான உணவு வகைகள் இல்லாது போனாலும், வேறுபல இடங்கள் பயணதிட்டத்ததில் சேர்த்திருக்கலாம் என்ற உணர்வு இருந்தாலும் அவற்றை மிகைப்படுத்தி உணர முடியவில்லை.அதற்கு உடன் பயணித்த பயணிகளின் உற்சாகம், அனுபவ முதிர்ச்சி,இனிமையாக எளிமையாக பழகும் தன்மை, பயணப் பொறுப்பாளரின் புன்னகையுடன் கூடிய உழைப்பு ஆகியவையே காரணம் எனில் அது மிகையில்லை.

ஒவ்வொறு நாளும் ஓவ்வொறு  நொடியும் புதுபுது அனுபவங்கள் எனது 80 வயதிலும்  பெற்றேன் என்பது தான் உண்மை. என் உடல் நிலை கண்டு அஞ்சாமல் என்னை உடன் அழைத்துச்செல்ல துணிந்த மகள் அமிர்தாவின் செயல் என்னை வியப்பில் ஆழ்த்தியது மட்டுமன்றி இதுவரை அவளிடம் காணாத நான் அறியாத குடும்ப வாழ்வின் அனுபவ முதிர்ச்சி, செயல்பாடு,மற்றவர் கவனத்தை ஈர்க்கும் தன்மை அகியவற்றை ஒரு சேர அறியும் வாய்ப்பை அளித்தது.

                                         

மிக படித்த மேதைகள்,வெவ்வேறு தனித்திறமை மிக்கவர்கள், பொது சேவையில் தன்னலமற்ற சேவையில் தம்மை ஈடுபடுத்திக் கொண்டவர்கள், சிறந்த பரம்பரியத்தோடு சிறப்பான நிலையில் உள்ள வாரிசுகளைப் பெற்றவர்கள் என ஒவ்வொருவரும் தம்மை பற்றி எத்தகைய ஆர்பாட்டமும் இன்றி எளிமையாக வெளிபடுத்திய இனிமை, கரும்பு தேன் கூட தரமுடியாத புதுமை என்பேன்.

நூல் நிலையத்துக்கு சென்று ஒரு நூறு புத்தகங்களை படித்து அறியக்கூடிய செய்திகள், அனுபவங்கள்,மனித நேயங்கள்,அகியவற்றை இந்த 'ஏழு நாட்கள்’ என்ற பயணம் தந்துவிட்டது. எத்தனையோ பயணங்கள் உள்நாட்டிலும், வெளிநாட்டிலும்,சுற்றத்தோடும்,பள்ளி மாணவ, ஆசிரியர்களோடும், நண்பர்களோடும், தனியாகவும் மேற்கொண்ட போதிலும் இந்த இலங்கை பயணம் ஒரு மறக்க முடியாத தனிப்பயணம் என்று அறுதியிட்டு கூறுவேன்.

இலங்கையில் கண்ட இடங்கள் பெரும்பான்மை அழிபட்ட சிதிலங்கள், இருப்பினும் புனர் நிர்மாணப்பணிகள் செயல்படும் வேகம் - நாட்டின் தூய்மை-இரு நாட்டு நல்லுறவு,நல்லிணக்கம்,தொடரவிரும்பும் எளிய பாமர மக்கள் அதை செயலாக்க வேகமுள்ள அரசுகள், பல தேவையற்ற எதிர்மறை எண்ணங்களை மனதிலிருந்து நீக்கி அந்நாட்டின் உணர்வுகளை நேர்முகமாக உணர வைத்தது இப்பயணம்.

ஏதோ ஒரு இடத்திற்கு மனமாற்றம், உற்சாகம் தேடி சென்று வருவோம் என்று நினைத்த பயணம்,இது போன்ற பல பயணைங்களை கண்டிப்பாக தொடங்க வேண்டும் என்ற கனலை என்னுள்ளே எழுப்பியது. நாம் சேர்த்து  வைப்பது பணம் மட்டும் அல்ல- தேவையும் இல்லை.பயண அனுபவங்கள் நமது தனி சொத்து.மற்றவரோடு பகிர்ந்து கொள்ள கல்வியை போல் "தொட்டணைத்து ஊறூம் கேணி" "அள்ள அள்ளக் குறையாத அட்சய பாத்திரம்".

இத்தகைய நேர்முக எண்ணங்களை  என்னுள்ளே எழச்செய்த பயணம் பற்றி சக பயணிகள் அனைவரும் தந்த ஒத்துழைப்பின் உதவியோடு எனது எண்ணங்களை இக்கட்டுரைமூலம் பதிவு செய்ய அருள் செய்த இறைவனுக்கும்,எனது இஷ்ட தெய்வம் தர்ம சாஸ்தா ஐயப்பனை நினைத்து தலைவணங்கி நன்றி கூறி நிறைவு செய்கிறேன்.

                                                                                  

 வணக்கம் நன்றியுடன்,

                                                                                               " ராதாகவி”

                                                                                                   கோவை