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.
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..
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
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
