life of Nesa Nayanar Nesa Nayanar (Tamil: நேச நாயனார்), also known as Sivanesa Nayanar, Neca Nayanar (Necha nayanar), Nesanar, Nesar and Nesan (Necan), was a Nayanar saint, venerated in the Hindu sect of Shaivism. He is generally counted as the FIFTY-NINTH (59TH), in the list of 63 Nayanars. Nesa Nayanar is described to be a weaver, who was always engrossed in remembering his patron god Shiva and gifting clothes he knit to devotees of the deity. Life:- The life of Nesa Nayanar is described in the Periya Puranam by Sekkizhar (12th century), which is a hagiography of the 63 Nayanars. Sekkizhar devotes five stanzas describing the life of the Nayanar saint. Nesa Nayanar was born in Kampili (Kambili). Kambili is now situated in Bellary district of the Indian state of Karnataka. Nesa Nayanar is said to have been born in Kampili, but shifted to Koorai Nadu in modern-day Mayiladuthurai, now situated in state of Tamil Nadu. Nesa Nayanar was a Saliyar, a member of the Saliya caste. His family as well as Nesa Nayanar practised the traditional occupation of weaving. He was a devout devotee of Shiva, the patron god of Shaivism. His mind is said to always be concentrated on Shiva. Nesa Nayanar used to continuously chant the Panchakshara mantra in honour of Shiva. He wove clothes, cut-pieces as well as Kowpeenams (loin-cloth). Though he was not wealthy, Nesa Nayanar used to generously donate clothes to devotees of Shiva. His deeds resulted in the favour of Shiva. By his grace, Nesa Nayanar reached Kailash, the abode of the god after death. Swami Sivananda cites Nesa Nayanar to explain the importance of the practice of Japa, which involves repetition of a mantra or a name of a chosen deity. Sivananda also suggests that the Nayanar practised the Yoga of Synthesis, which involves combining four types of yoga: karma (actions), bhakti (devotion), jnana (knowledge) and Raja yoga (form of meditation) - as a means to achieve God. Remembrance :- The images of the Nayanars are found in many Shiva temples in Tamil Nadu. One of the most prominent Nayanars, Sundarar (8th century) venerates Nesa Nayanar in the Tiruthonda Thogai, a hymn to Nayanar saints. Nesa Nayanar is worshipped specially in the Tamil month of Panguni, when the moon enters the Rohini nakshatra (lunar mansion). Weavers of Koorai Nadu in Mayiladuthurai especially worship him on this day. A temple in Koorai Nadu is said to have images of Shiva's sons Ganesha and Kartikeya, which were brought by Nesa Nayanar to the place. In depictions as part as of the Nayanars, Nesa Nayanar is depicted with folded hands (see Anjali mudra). In individual depictions of his life, the Nayanar is depicted distributing garments to devotees of Shiva or as engrossed in weaving. He receives collective worship as part of the 63 Nayanars. Their icons and brief accounts of his deeds are found in many Shiva temples in Tamil Nadu. Their images are taken out in procession in festivals. NESA NAYANAR CHARANAM

Nesa Nayanar

Nesa Nayanar (Tamil: நேச நாயனார்), also known as Sivanesa Nayanar, Neca Nayanar (Necha nayanar), Nesanar, Nesar and Nesan (Necan), was a Nayanar saint, venerated in the Hindu sect of Shaivism. He is generally counted as the FIFTY-NINTH (59TH), in the list of 63 Nayanars. Nesa Nayanar is described to be a weaver, who was always engrossed in remembering his patron god Shiva and gifting clothes he knit to devotees of the deity.

Life:-

The life of Nesa Nayanar is described in the Periya Puranam by Sekkizhar (12th century), which is a hagiography of the 63 Nayanars. Sekkizhar devotes five stanzas describing the life of the Nayanar saint.

Nesa Nayanar was born in Kampili (Kambili). Kambili is now situated in Bellary district of the Indian state of Karnataka. Nesa Nayanar is said to have been born in Kampili, but shifted to Koorai Nadu in modern-day Mayiladuthurai, now situated in state of Tamil Nadu.

Nesa Nayanar was a Saliyar, a member of the Saliya caste. His family as well as Nesa Nayanar practised the traditional occupation of weaving. He was a devout devotee of Shiva, the patron god of Shaivism. His mind is said to always be concentrated on Shiva. Nesa Nayanar used to continuously chant the Panchakshara mantra in honour of Shiva. He wove clothes, cut-pieces as well as Kowpeenams (loin-cloth). Though he was not wealthy, Nesa Nayanar used to generously donate clothes to devotees of Shiva. His deeds resulted in the favour of Shiva. By his grace, Nesa Nayanar reached Kailash, the abode of the god after death.

Swami Sivananda cites Nesa Nayanar to explain the importance of the practice of Japa, which involves repetition of a mantra or a name of a chosen deity. Sivananda also suggests that the Nayanar practised the Yoga of Synthesis, which involves combining four types of yoga: karma (actions), bhakti (devotion), jnana (knowledge) and Raja yoga (form of meditation) - as a means to achieve God.

Remembrance    :-

The images of the Nayanars are found in many Shiva temples in Tamil Nadu.
One of the most prominent Nayanars, Sundarar (8th century) venerates Nesa Nayanar in the Tiruthonda Thogai, a hymn to Nayanar saints.

Nesa Nayanar is worshipped specially in the Tamil month of Panguni, when the moon enters the Rohini nakshatra (lunar mansion). Weavers of Koorai Nadu in Mayiladuthurai especially worship him on this day. A temple in Koorai Nadu is said to have images of Shiva's sons Ganesha and Kartikeya, which were brought by Nesa Nayanar to the place.

In depictions as part as of the Nayanars, Nesa Nayanar is depicted with folded hands (see Anjali mudra). In individual depictions of his life, the Nayanar is depicted distributing garments to devotees of Shiva or as engrossed in weaving. He receives collective worship as part of the 63 Nayanars. Their icons and brief accounts of his deeds are found in many Shiva temples in Tamil Nadu. Their images are taken out in procession in festivals.  NESA NAYANAR CHARANAM

Kottai Darwaja Sri Veera Anchaneya Temple, Thiruppathur.

Kottai Darwaja Sri Veera Anchaneya Temple, Thiruppathur.

Kottai Darwaja Sri Veera Anjaneya Swami Temple is located at Tirupattur (Vellore District) which is surrounded by hills in all the directions The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman (The Monkey God). The temple has a very interesting story behind its origin.

The Temple is over 500 years old and dedicated to Lord Anjaneya. The 12 feet tall deity is made out of one single stone. Kottai Darwaja Sri Veera Anjaneya Swami temple is situated in the main entrance of Kottai Sri Gajendra Varadharaja Perumal Temple (‘Kottai’ in english means ‘Fort’) and Sri Brahmeshwarar Temple (Lord Brahma has worshipped Lord Siva here).


MEANING OF DARWAJA:


The name ‘Darwaja’ means ‘Entrance’ in Hindi. As Sri Veera Anjaneya Swami is located at the main entrance of Kottai Sri Gajendra Varadharaja Perumal Temple and Sri Brahmeshwarar Temple, He is called as Kottai Darwaja Sri Veera Anjaneya Swami.

SPECIAL FEATURES OF MOOLAVAR:


Sri Vyasaraja followed unique features in the Hanuman idols he installed. You can identify the idol by keen observation of the following features.

One hand of the idol opens towards the sky or the devotee.
The other hand holds a flower called Sowgandhi
The tail of the idol goes over the head, makes a semi-circle and the end resembles like a circle
A bell hangs at the end of the tail

TEMPLE ADMINISTRATION:

The temple is managed and administered hereditarily by the HINDU RELIGIOUS AND CHARITABLE ENDOWMENTS DEPARTMENT and Sri Siriya Thiruvadi Kainkarya Trust (R) & Sri Darwaja Veera Anjaneya Swami Kaingarya Trust (R).

HISTORY:
It is said that Sri Veera Anjaneya Swami temple was built by the 15th century saint cum guru Sri Vyasaraya Swamigal (1447-1539 AD) who was also the guru of the Vijayanagara empire of those days. He was the royal preceptor of the King Krishnadevaraya, one of the most enlightened and benevolent ruler of vijayanagara empire.


APPEAL:
The noble hearts are always welcomed for their able donations to the welfare and maintenance of the temple and for 'annadhanam' and 'special poojas' that take place in the temple premises regularly.

Sri Siriya Thiruvadi Kainkarya Trust
# 5th Cross, Dharmaraja Koil Street, Tirupattur, Vellore Dist, Tamilnadu - 635601
Mobile : +91 98946 53566 | Email :nanthutpt. JAI ANJANEYA, JAI ANJANEYA, JAI ANJANEYA, JAI ANJANEYA, JAI ANJANEYA!

Madhura Kali Amman Temple, Siruvachur, Perambalur district.

 Madhura Kali Amman Temple, Siruvachur, Perambalur district.


Main Deity : Sri Madhura Kali Amman

Holy Water : Thirukkula

Temple Tree : Marudha maram

Prominence of the Shrine : Aadhi Sankara offered worship here. This Kali has the power to cure the deaf and dumb. She can relieve people under the evil influence of ghost, evil spirit, witchcraft. Except Mondays and Fridays, Ambal is said to dwell in the nearby Periyasamy hill.

Temple History : As per the tamil literature ‘Silapathikaram’, Kannagi burnt down Madurai for the injustice meted out to her innocent husband and she was wandering without mental peace reached this shrine and found tranquility. The Kali of Madurai who burnt down Madurai through Kannagi settled down here on her own accord it is said. The presiding deity of Siruvachur is Selli Amman. A magician bought her under his control with his magical powers and used her for his evil acts. Annai Madhura KaliAmman came here on a Friday night. As she wanted to stay with Selli Amman, she sought her consent. Selli Amman told her about the magician who was troubling her. Madhura kali told her that she would find a way for it. That night she encountered the magician and destroyed him. Seeing the might of Madhura kali, Selli Amman requested her to stay at Siruvachur temple and grace the devotees and she herself would go to the nearby periyasamy hill. However Selli Amman wanted that she should be honoured first at Siruvachur Temple. Madhura kali accepted it and stayed at the temple. Selli Amman went to Periyasamy hill and stayed at the Temple there. Madhura kali who came here on a Friday graces devotees on Mondays and that is why the temple at Siruvachur is open on Mondays and Fridays according to accounts going round here. The temple is also open on other important days. The other days Madurai kali Amman stays with Selli Amman at Periyasamy hill. The name Madurai kali Amman became Madhura kali Amman. Madhura kali who came here in an infuriated mood, on reaching here became tranquil and she also graces pleasant to the devotees and thus she got the name Madhura kali Amman. As Selli Amman wanted first honour to her, the Deeparathana is done towards the hill first and then only it is done to Madhura kali Amman.

Temple Timings : Open on Mondays and Fridays only from 6.30 am to 9.00 pm  .On full moon days and new moon days also worship is offered.

Pooja Details : Three times a day.
Abhishegam 11.00 am to 1.00 pm.
Maha deeparthanai 1.00 pm.
Sandana kappu. Alankaram-5.00 pm.

Temple Festivals : Poochoridhal is celebrated on the first Tuesday after the Amavasai in Chithrai. The following Tuesday ‘kappu’ is tied and the big festival goes on for 13 days.

Nearest Town : Perambalur

Address : Sri Madhura kali Amman Temple
Siruvachur , Perambalur dt.

Telephone Number : 04328-225333, 04328-291375. SRI SIRUVACHUR MADHURA KALI AMMA CHARANAM!

The Swetha Vinayagar Temple ( Vellai Vinayakar)

The Swetha Vinayagar Temple ( Vellai Vinayakar).

It is situated in the village of Thiruvalanchuzhi  four kilometres from Kumbakonam near Swamimalai. The presiding deity is Kapardiswarar,with ambaal Brihannayaki. Though the moolavar is Kapardiswarar the importance here is for Ganesha, known as Swetha Vinayagar.

According to puranas (epics), there are ten important abodes for Ganesha in India.

Swetha Vignesa puram

Mayuresa puram

Raja Sadhanam

Kandageepuram

Sidhasramam

Bowmapuram

Manipuram

Kasi (Varanasi)

Chintamani puram

Prayagai

Thiruvalanchuzhi known in purana as Swetha Vignesa puram is in Tamil Nadu and other nine being in North India in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh

As per mythology ,devas and asuras were trying to churn the Thiru Parkadal using Mandhra mountain as the churn and the serpent Vasuki as the rope to extract the 'amudham', Vasuki spewed out venom thus polluting the ocean and poisoning the living beings. Unable to bear the heat generated due to the venom, devas and Asuras rushed to Lord Siva. Siva said that they are facing hardships because they had started the task without first getting the approval of Ganesha.

They scooped out the white foam and made a Ganesha figure and this was worshipped by Sri Parameshwaran, Parvathi at Kailash and later by Mahavishnu and Mahalakshmi at Vaikundam, and by Brahma nad Saraswathy at Sathya logam, by turns during different yugas such as Kridhayugam,Thredha yugam. Later during Kaliyugam, Swetha Vinayagar was worshipped by Devendran and Indrani at Indra logam.

Once Devendran was cursed by Akalya and to remove the curse, he had to visit the Siva kshetrangal in the boo logam (earth). He brought this Swetha Vinayaga in a golden plate along with him. He reached Thiruvalanchuzhi and wanted to worship Sri Kabartheeswarar. As he wanted to bathe in the Jada theertham, he was looking for some one to hold the Swetha Vinayagar idol, as Sri Maha Vishnu had told Indra that this should not be put down in the earth.

Sri Kabartheeswarar appeared as a boy and offered to hold it for him on a condition that he will call Indra thrice and if does not appear, he will keep the idol down. Indra agreed and went to bath. Immediatel Kabartheeswar in the disguise of a boy called Indra thrice and he Indra could not hear him he placed the idol in a raised platforn near his sanctum.

When Indra came back, he could neither see the boy nor remove the idol. He gave up after several futile attempts and finally called Viswakarma ( the great architect) and constructed a beautiful Indra Vimanam (a vehicle) with intrinsic art so that he can pull it back to Indra logam with his white elephants.

At that time a voice from the Heaven asked Indra not to remove the idol and Swetha Vinayagar will stay in this blessed place to protect the human kind and will be fulfilling devotees wishes. Indra was asked to visit this place during every Ganesh chaturthis, which will be equivalent to doing pooja every day. Indran was delighted at this and every Ganesh Chaturthi, he would come and perform an elaborate pooja ( This is referenced in Swetha Vigneswarar Mahatmiyam of Bavishyotra Puranam in slokas 1 to 50)

As per legends, river Cauvery circumbulated Lord Kabartheeswarar while entering and also exits clockwise, it came to known as Thiru Valam Chuzhi (going around in a right circle).

The Temple: The temple faces east with a majestic five tiered gopuram. As you enter you can see the beautiful temple tank called Jada theertahm.



The sanctum where Swetha Vinayagar presides is beautifully architected in granite with intricate works. The entrance on both its sides has large panes carved out of stones (could be granite or some soft granite like stone).

The Swetha Vinayagar idol is pure white and is placed in a silver and gold mandap. No abhisheka orflowers are offered to the deity,obviously as the idol is made up of soft white foam like material. Every decoration and splendour is for the surrounding frames alone. The only offering is Pachai Karpooram (Borneal Flakes - edible form of camphor derived from plants and extensively used in sweets), which is finely crushed and sprinkled over the idol.



The stone pane in front of Swetha Vinayagar is called as 'Karungal Palagani' (Stone window) which is beautifully carved and has four pillars and hundred and eleven holes. This has many religious and spirtual meanings which is beyond the scope of writing. It is said whenever Kanchi Maha swami (Paramacharyal) used to visist this temple he used to sit beside this Karungal Palagani and admire its beauty each time.


The mandapam next to the sanctum is called Gayathri Mandapam, with 24 beautifully carved pillars with intricate designs, depicting the 24 akshars of the Gayathri manthram. It is beleived that sitting in this mandap and chanting Ganesha gayathri mantra will bring you releif from all the difficulties in the life, and you will be blessed by Ganesha with all prosperity.

Another interesting factor is that in the sanctum of Kabartheeswarar, we can see Suryan (Sun) and Sani (Saturn) are facing each other which is very rare


Festivals

Daily pujas to the deities are performed four times a day.

Monthly sankatahara chaturthi,krithigai,Pradosham are celeberated. Needless to say, Ganesh Chaturthi is celeberated in a grand manner for 10 days and the whole village participates. It is said that even Lord Indra participates in the Ganesha Chaturthi festivals.

Temple Timings It is normally open from 5 am – 12:00pm and 4.30pm- 8:00pm.

How to reach?

The temple is located at 4 Kms from Kumbakonam. Plenty of local buses,cabs and auto rickshaws are available from Kumbakonam.

Where to Stay?There are plenty of budget and semi deluxe hotels are in Kumbakonam.
Where to Eat?There are many good restaurants in Kumbakonam
Places nearby Kumbakonam is a place with many famous temples and Oppiliappan temple, Patteeswaram Durgai, Darsuram, Thirubhuvanam,Swamimalai are very nearby.

Contact :-
Sri Tiru Valanchuzhi Temple, Tiruvalanchuzi-612 302
Phone: +91 435 2454421, 2454026.  SWETHA VINAYAGA CHARANAM!

SRI BRAHMA PUREESWARAR TEMPLE OR Thirukadaiyur Mayanam.

SRI BRAHMA PUREESWARAR TEMPLE OR
Thirukadaiyur Mayanam.
It is situated at a distance of about 2 kms from Thirukadaiyur.

Thirukadaiyur is situated at a distance of about 22 kms from Mayiladuthurai on the Mayiladuthurai to Karaikkal route.

Other Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalam near this place are – Thirukadaiyur, Thirunallaru, Dharumapuram, Thiruvettakkudi and Thiruthelichery.

General Information

Moolavar

Sri Brahmapureeswarar, Sri Peruman Adigal

Ambal

Sri Aamla Gujambikai, Sri Vaadamulai Ammai, Sri Malarkuzhal Minnammai

Theertham (Holy water)

Brahma Theertham / Asvathi Theertham

Sthala Vriksham (Sacred Tree)

Kontrai tree / Vilva tree

Pathigam (Hymn) rendered by

Saint Thirugnanasambanthar, Saint Thirunavukarasar (Appar) and Saint Sundaramurthy Nayanar


This is one of the 276 Devara Paadal Petra Shiva Sthalams and 48th Shiva Sthalam on the Southern bank of the river Cauveri in Chozha Nadu (Thenkarai).

Lord Shiva in this temple is a Swayambumurthi (self-manifested).

This is one of the 44 Paadal petra sthalams where the “Moovar” (the three saints - Saint Thirugnanasambanthar, Saint Thirunavukarasar (Appar) and Saint Sundaramurthy (Sundarar) have rendered their Pathigams.

This temple is one of the 55 west facing Shivasthalams in Tamil Nadu.

There is no main tower (Rajagopuram) in this temple. However, there is a 3-tiered second tower. This temple has two corridors.

The last consecration ceremony (Kumbabishekam) took place on 10.09.2014.

History of the Temple

As per Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva destroyed and created Lord Brahma five times at five different places. Each such incident took place at an interval of “one karbam”. One karbam consists of hundreds of thousands of years. These 5 places are known as “Mayaanam” (“Mayaanam” means burial ground in Tamil). They are - Kasi Mayaanam, Kachchi Mayaanam (Kanchipuram), Thirukkadavur Mayaanam, Kazhi Mayaanam (Sirkazhi) and Veezhi Naalur Mayaanam.  Since this place is very near to Thirukkadavur, this Mayaanam gets the name “Thirukkadavur Mayaanam”.

The historical names of this place are Brahmapuri, Vilvaranyam, Siva Vedapuyri and Thirumeignanam.

Legend

In this place, Lord Shiva is believed to have first burnt Lord Brahma and then remade him as holy water – hence the name Mayaanam. Since Lord Brahma is the creator god in Hinduism, after his death the process of creation came to a standstill.  The celestial gods came to this place and requested Lord Shiva to reinstate Lord Brahma. Lord Shiva then revived Brahma and reinstated him and bestowed upon him the duty of creation. It is believed that this is third such Mayaanam. It is also believed that Lord Shiva further taught Brahma the “Shiva Gnanam” here. Hence this place is also known as “Thiru Meignanam”.

Another legend is that Lord Shiva created a well here with water from the Ganges for Sage Markandeya to perform his pooja. This well is located next to the holy water of this temple “Brahma Theertham”.  Water is taken from this well to Thirukadaiyur temple for daily ablution (abhishekam) of Sri Amirthakateswarar. It is believed that no other water is being used for abhishekam of Sri Amirthakateswarar. Also, water from this well is not used for other deities.

It is believed that once a king tried to perform abhishekam for Lord Brahmapureeswarar using the water from this well. However, as soon as the water was poured on the lingam, a crack appeared on it. This crack can still be seen on the lingam.

Another legend associated with this temple is that of the Chalukya King Emakeridan. He was defeated in battle by another king and was thrown out of his kingdom. Since he was a Shiva devotee, he visited many temples asking Lord Shiva for his blessings. He came to this temple and prayed to Lord Singaravelar (Murugan) and sought his help. It is believed that Lord Murugan took the form of this king and went to his kingdom along with his army. The lord defeated the enemy king and later asked Emakeridan to take control of his country. The king is believed to have donated 53 acres of land to this temple. These lands are still be called as “Singaraveli”.

As per the “Sthala Puranam”, a few more legends are associated with this temple – A Chola king, who had leprosy, visited and prayed to the lord here and got cured of his ailment. A Vedic scholar Somadevasarma was relieved from his “Brahmahathi dosham” after worshiping the lord here; and a brahmin by the name of Sivasarma from Pandiya Nadu, was cured of his curse which had made him take the form of a crow. He later obtained salvation in this temple.

It is believed that Ganges visited this temple’s holy water on Aswini star day in the Tamil month of Panguni. Every year, on this day, procession idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathy are taken to this well and “Theerthavari” festival is celebrated in a grand manner.

Deities in the temple

Apart from the shrines of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathy, shrines and idols of lords Sidhi Vinayakar, Murugan with his consorts, Natarajar, Dakshinamurthy, Nardana Vinayakar, Lingothbavar, Brahma, Kalyana Sundarar, Nalvar, Mahavishnu as Sri Pillai Perumal, Vishnu Durgai, Gajalakshmi, Chandikeswarar, Chandikeswari and Sri Pitchana Bairavar can be seen in the corridors.



Salient Features

The uniqueness of the procession idol of Lord Singaravelar (Murugan) is that he holds a bow and arrow in his hands, wears a “Rudraksha” garland and also wears footwear.

Lord Dakshinamurthy is seen here with his six disciples – “Sanakaatha” rishis.

All the stone sculptures in this temple are exquisitely carved. The idol of Sri Pitchana Bairavar is especially beautiful.

Usually Lord Vinayakar is depicted with a pot belly. However, in this temple he is seen with a flat belly. He is worshipped as “Sri Pranava Vinayakar”.

It is said that Pambatti Siddhar, one of the revered 18 Siddhars, lived in this place.


Greatness of this temple

Since the lord of this temple is believed to have taught “Shiva Gnanam” to Lord Brahma, devotees worship the lord here to gain knowledge and wisdom.

Important Festivals

Some of the major festivals celebrated in this temple are –

Skantha Sashti in the Tamil month of Aippasi (Oct-Nov);

Thirukarthikai in the Tamil month of Karthikai (Nov-Dec);

Thiruvadhirai in the Tamil month of Margazhi (Dec-Jan);

Shivarathri in the Tamil month of Maasi (Feb-Mar); and

Theerthavari on Aswini star day in the Tamil month of Panguni (Mar-Apr).

Pradosham is also observed regularly.

Temple Timings

From 06:30 AM to 12:00 Noon and from 04:00 PM to 07:30 PM.

Temple Address

Sri Brahmapureeswarar Temple,
Thirumayanam, Aadhi Kadavur,
Thirukadayur Post,
Tharangambadi Taluk,
Nagapattinam District,
Tamil Nadu – 609 311.

This temple's priest, Sri M.K.Ganesa Gurukkal can be contacted at: +91- 4364 - 287999, 287222, 94420 12133.
OHM NAMA SIVAYA, OHM NAMA SIVAYA, OHM NAMA SIVAYA, OHM NAMA SIVAYA, OHM NAMA SIVAYA!

Arulmigu Shanmuganathar Temple, Kunnakudi.

Arulmigu Shanmuganathar Temple, Kunnakudi.

The Kundrakudi Murugan temple is 1000 - 2000 years old.It is a small hill temple in the region of Karaikudi.The presiding deity is Arulmigu Shanmuganathar with his beautiful consorts Valli and Deivanai gracing individually on the peacock. Sri Thenattru Nathar graces here as 'Swayambumoorthy' in the east.The temple was sung by 'Arunagirinathar' in Thirupugazh.The historical name of the place is "Arasavanam".

Kundrakudi temple is a hill temple.The hill appears as peacock shaped structure.As peacock is the vehicle of Lord Muruga,got relieved of its curse here called Mayil Malai(peacock hill).The presiding deity Lord Shanmuganathar graces here majestically with six heads and twelve hands with his beautiful consorts Valli and Deivanani. Sri Thenatrunathar graces on the banks of Thenaru river as Swayambumoorthy in the east side of the temple.Lord Muruga who graces here is also known in many names like Kundrai Murugan,Thenattrunathar,Mayilkalai Kandhan,Kundrayur Udayaan,Chetty Murugan,Mayuragirinathar.Sage Agasthyar Worshipped here.Not only Sage Agasthiyar, but also Lord Kannapiran,Lord Brahma,Naradha,Grauda,Sages Vashishtar and Viswamithirar,Devaloga Indiran,Sun God and Manmatha had worshipped in this temple.The Sthala Vruksha is Bodhi tree(Arasamaram).Other than Thenaru, Saravana Poigai and Mayil Theertham are said to be the springs of the temple.From Kalinga, Idumba carried kavadi to this temple and got his stomach pain cured.The temple is so powerful and believed wishes of devotees are blessed.Wishes like free from illness,long life,child birth,education,high yields in farms are blessed.Carrying Kavadi is very famous in this temple to get rid of from the evil things.There is a popular saying that a 'devotee carrying kavadi will not be let down in any circumstances'.


History:

Once Demons wants to take revenge on Devas,told Peacock,the vehicle of Lord Muruga that Garuda the vehicle of Lord Vishnu and Swan (Annam) were egoistic that they could fly faster than Peacock.Believing this was true,peacock got angry on them and swallowed .Lord Vishnu and Indira appealed about this problem to Lord Muruga.At that time peacock was cursed to become a hill.The peacock realised its mistake and penaced Lord Muruga.Peacock got relieved from Lord Muruga in this hill.

Festivals:

The two great festivals celebrated here are Panguni Uthiram for 10 days in the month of March-April and Thaipoosam in January-February.The other festivals celebrated here are Paal peruku vizha,Vaigasi visagam,Aani mahabishegam,Aadi tirupadi and Aavani moola pittu.Arrow festival and Skandha shashti and Thirukarthigai are celebrated grandly.

Offerings:

Kavadi is the main offering during festives.Milk pots,Angapradhakshana,adipradhakshana and shashti fasting are done.It is believed that offering Pepper&salt in Saravana poigai and in Idumba shrine gives remedy for skin diseases.Grains are also contributed by the farmers to get high yields in farms.Devotees even offers Cocks and Cattles.Ear piercing and head shaving are also done here for devotees who wish.

Address:

Arulmigu Shanmuganathar temple,

Kundrakudi Adheenam, Kundrakudi,

Sivagangai district.

Nearest landmark: Pillayarpatti and karaikudi.

Ph.no:04577 - 264227.

How to reach:

Plenty of buses are available from Karaikudi,Thiruppatur,sivagangai,madurai and Trichy.

Nearest Railway station is Karaikudi.

Nearest airport is Trichy and Madurai.

MURUGA CHARANAM, MURUGA CHARANAM, MURUGA CHARANAM, MURUGA CHARANAM, MURUGA CHARANAM!

నరసింహావతారం Narasimha avatharam

నరసింహావతారం      Narasimha avatharam

పూర్వం హిరణ్యకశిపుడనే రాక్షసుడు బ్రహ్మను గూర్చి తపస్సు ప్రారంభించి అనేక సంవత్సరములు గడిచాయి. అతని తపోదీక్షకు సర్వలోకాలలోను మంటలు వ్యాపించి దేవతాదులందరు బ్రహ్మదేవ్ఞని వద్దకు పరుగెత్తి, అతని తపోదీక్ష మానిపించమని వేడుకున్నారు. ఎట్టకేలకు బ్రహ్మ ప్రత్యక్షమై, దానవేంద్రా! నీ తపస్సుకు మెచ్చాను. ఏంకావాలో కోరుకో! అన్నాడు. హిరణ్యకశిపుడు ఎంత బలవంతులైనా వరబల సంపను్నలైనా, తన పూర్వీకులైన రాక్షసులందరిని శ్రీహరి ఏదోవిధంగా చంపుతున్నాడని శ్రీహరి మాయోపాయాలకు లొంగని విధంగా ఉండేలా విచిత్రమైన వరాలు కోరాడు. అవి తాను నరులచేతగాని, పగలుగాని, రాత్రిగాని, ఇంటిలోగాని, బయటగాని, ఆకాశంలోగాని, భూమిపైగాని ఎవరిచేతా మరణం లేకుండా ఉండాలని కోరాడు. అలవాటుగా బ్రహ్మ తథాస్తు అని మాయమైపోయాడు. ఆ వరబల గర్వంతో విర్రవీగుతూ దేవతలను, సర్వలోకాలను వేధించసాగాడు దానవ్ఞడు. ఎవడురా మీకు దిక్కు, ఎక్కడరా శ్రీహరి. ఏడిరా చూపండి, అంటూ భక్తులను,మునులను వేధిస్తూ యజÑయాగాదులు ధ్వంసం చేయిస్తూ ఎల్లరకు కంటనిద్రలేకుండా చేయసాగాడు. కన్న కుమారుడైన ప్రహ్లాదుని సైతం హరిభక్తి మాను లేదా ఉంటే ఆ హరిని చూపమంటూ వేధించసాగాడు. హిరణ్యకశిపుడు హాహాకారాలకు  దిక్కులకు అధిపతులైన దేవతలు దిక్కుతోచక తలోదారి పరుగులెత్తారు. వైకుంఠం చేరి శ్రీహరిని చూసి, హిరణ్యకశిపుని బారి నుండి మమ్ములను రక్షింపమని వేడుకున్నారు. నారదుడు సమయం దొరికినప్పుడల్లా హిరణ్యకశిపుని కనిపించి రాక్షసాధిపా! ఆ శ్రీహరికి నీకుమారుడు ప్రహ్లాదుని మీద నీకంటే కూడా ఎక్కువ ప్రేమ. తరచు అతడు నీకుమారుని దర్శించటానికి ఇక్కడికే వచ్చి నీ నగరంలోనే ప్రహ్లాదుని ముందు ఉంటాడు. అతనికోసం నీవ్ఞ ఎక్కడెక్కడో చూడక్కర్లేదు. ఇక్కడే నీ నగరంలోనే దొరుకుతాడు. నువ్ఞ్వ కన్న కుమారుడన్న ప్రేమ వదలి నీ కుమారుని దండించినట్లయితే ఆ శ్రీహరి జాడ నీకు ప్రహ్లాదుడే చెబుతాడు అంటూ పురి ఎక్కించసాగాడు. ఒకనాడు అలా శ్రీహరి పై ద్వేషంతో కన్న కుమారుడిని దండిస్తూ, ఎక్కడరా, శ్రీహరి ఇక్కడ ఉన్నాడా, అని ఎదుటనున్న స్తంభాన్ని గద ఎత్తి గట్టిగా మోదాడు హిరణ్యకశిపుడు. ఆనాటితో హిరణ్యకశిపుని ఆయుర్థాయం ముగిసిపోవడంతో ఆ స్తంభం పడదోసుకుని, పగలు కాని, రాత్రిగాని సంధ్యాసమంలో సగం నరుడు, సగం మ]గంగా రూపుదాల్చి జూలు విదుల్చుకుని నరసింహుడుగా మారి గర్జిస్తూ శ్రీహరి వింతరూపంతో ప్రత్యక్షమయ్యాడు. హిరణ్యకశిపుని చేతులతో పట్టి పైకి ఎత్తి లోపలా బయటా కాకుండా గుమ్మం మీద కూర్చుని భూమి మీద ఆకాశంలో కాకుండా తొడలమీద పరుండబెట్టుకొని గోళ్లనే ఆయుధములుగా చేసుకుని పొట్ల చీల్చి చంపివేశాడు. శ్రీహరి ఆ దుష్టరాక్షసుని మరణంతో దేవతలు, మానవ్ఞలు, సర్వజాతులు, లోకాలు ఆనందంతో పొంగిపోయాయి. శ్రీహరిని వేనోళ్లతో కొనియాడారు. శ్రీవారి మీద పుష్పవర్షం కురిపించారు. అలా బ్రహ్మ వరాలకు భంగం రాకుండా హిరణ్యకశిపుని సంహరించి లోకాలకు మేలు కలుగజేశాడు శ్రీహరి. హిరణ్యకశిపుని చంపటానికి శ్రీహరి ఎత్తిన అవతారమే నరసింహం. అతడే నరుడూ-నారాయణుడు.

Narasimha Avatar is the Half-Man Half-Lion Incarnation of Hindu God Sri Hari Vishnu. The story of Narasimha Avatar is associated with Vishnu’s incarnation as the boar or Varaha. To uphold dharma and save the Vedas, Varaha had killed the brother of demon Hiranyakashipu.  To avenge his brother’s death, Hiranyakashipu performed intense austerities and was able to please Hindu God Brahma. When Brahma appeared before him he asked for immortality. But Brahma said he could not grant him the boon of immortality. So Hiranyakashipu played a trick on Brahma and asked a series of boons all of which indirectly tried to avoid death. Hiranyakashipu demanded the following boons – He will not die in any type of residence or outside. He will not die during day or night. He will not die on earth or sky He will not be killed by any weapon He will not be killed by a human being of animal After earning the boons, Hiranyakashipu defeated demigods and rulers on earth and announced that he was God and all prayers should be directed to him and not to Sri Hari Vishnu. The entire kingdom followed his commands but not his young son, Prahlad. The little boy Prahlad worshipped Sri Hari Vishnu. Hiranyakashipu tried all means to make the boy worship Him. But all this efforts failed. Then the demon tried to kill his sons but each time the little boy was rescued by Vishnu. Fed up with his son’s Vishnu worship, Hiranyakashipu demanded to him to show him his Vishnu who is present everywhere. In a fit of anger pointing to a pillar, Hiranyakashipu asked whether Vishnu is present in it. Young Prahlad said yes and Hiranyakashipu took out his sword to cut the pillar.  Suddenly, Narasimha broke opened the pillar and appeared before Hiranyakashipu. Narasimha then dragged him to the doorway of the palace and when the twilight period approached put him in His lap and killed him with His finger nails. Thus the boons failed to protect Hiranyakashipu.

Thekkady in Kerala State , India 's largest wildlife sanctuary is a dream destination for any tourist visiting India . The 120 years old 'Surki' dam built across Peryiar, Poorna in Vedic parlance, is a major tourist attraction. This sanctuary is spread over an area of 777 Sq.Kms, surrounded by an artificial lake over an area of 25 Sq.Kms. The Country's sole Tiger reserve, Thekkady, with its bountiful treasures of tropical flora and fauna is the ultimate reservoir of many an endangered species and a rich tribal culture. Thekkady is a pleasant heaven on earth for those who love nature in its wild manifestations.

Thekkady in Kerala State

Thekkady in Kerala State , India 's largest wildlife sanctuary is a dream destination for any tourist visiting India . The 120 years old 'Surki' dam built across Peryiar, Poorna in Vedic parlance, is a major tourist attraction. This sanctuary is spread over an area of 777 Sq.Kms, surrounded by an artificial lake over an area of 25 Sq.Kms.

The Country's sole Tiger reserve, Thekkady, with its bountiful treasures of tropical flora and fauna is the ultimate reservoir of many an endangered species and a rich tribal culture.

Thekkady is a pleasant heaven on earth for those who love nature in its wild manifestations.

Photos taken on tour to Thekkady

My holiday tour to Leh

The security check at Delhi for the morning flight from Delhi to Leh by Jet Airways was a little bit more serious . The flight took off exactly at scheduled time. The sight of Himalayas aboard the plane was breath taking with snow clad mountains and with barren lands at some places. It was told that Leh is cut off from the main land for a period of six months in a year because of heavy snow.
The snow is cleared only just before the month of may. Even the travel by flight from Delhi to Leh was fantastic and the pilot was good enough to show the beautiful wild nature below by bringing the flight to a lower altitude. At one stage we saw the mountains before the flight and we were afraid that unless the altitude is increased the flight may go and hit the mountains. But the pilot increased the altitude at the right time and we were all above the mountains Even the4 landing of flight at Leh was a pleasant one. The airport hidden among tall mountains all around the and the barren lands without much plantation was really something new to look at. Though it was small airport it still took some time to come out after the4 claiming the baggage. After coming out the agents of the travel agency welcomed us by holding the placards wearing our names. A separate vehicle was arranged for us for transportation to Hotel Bijoo. Thought it is a small town, the roads are congested enough making it a little difficult even for two vehicle4s coming in opposite directions. It is very much necessary at Ladakh to get yourself acclimatized and so the first day of stay in Leh should b spent in the hotel just relaxing and doing nothing. If you feel normal or better by noon you may venture out to the market place. It was told that in Sept 2008,

Trip to Leh

Trip to Leh

These are the photos taken in Ladakh region:

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Leave letters that are funny

This is a collection of leave letters and applications written by people in various places of India ...


1. An employee applied for leave as follows:
Since I have to go to my village to sell my land along with my wife, please sanction me one-week leave.

2.From an employee who was performing the "mundan" ceremony of his 10 year old son: "as I want to shave my son's head, please leave me for two days.."

3. Leave-letter from an employee who was performing his daughter's wedding: "as I am marrying my daughter, please grant a week's leave.."

4. "As my mother-in-law has expired and I am only one responsible for it, please grant me 10 days leave."

5. Another employee applied for half day leave as follows: "Since I've to go to the cremation ground at 10 o-clock and I may not return, please grant me half day casual leave"

6. An incident of a leave letter: "I am suffering from fever, please declare one day holiday."

7. A leave letter to the headmaster: "As I am studying in this school I am suffering from headache. I request you to leave me today"

8. Another leave letter written to the headmaster: "As my headache is paining, please grant me leave for the day."

9. Covering note: "I am enclosed herewith..."

10. Another one: "Dear Sir: with reference to the above, please refer to my below..."

11. Actual letter written for application of leave: "My wife is suffering from sickness and as I am her only husband at home I may be granted leave".

12. Letter writing: "I am in well here and hope you are also in the same well."

13. A candidate's job application: "This has reference to your advertisement calling for a ' Typist and an Accountant - Male or Female'...As I am both (!!) for the past several years and I can handle both with good experience, I am applying for the post.

The importance of tradition and transformation

The importance of tradition and transformation

Tradition means an inherited, established, or customary pattern of thought, action, or behavior (as a religious practice or a social custom); a belief or story or a body of beliefs or stories relating to the past that are commonly accepted as historical though not verifiable. Transformation means an act, process, or instance of transforming or being transformed which in turn means to change in composition or structure or to change the outward form or appearance or to change in character or condition.

In today’s world, it is the right time to talk about the importance of tradition and transformation which have a perennial impact on human life. The recent fallout of globalization which saw America had an impact of total transformation where the economy had gone bust and the world renowned banks and financial institutions fell like a pack of cards. Strangely India did not undergo this unwanted transformation only because of the great visionaries sitting in the central bank of the country that is the Reserve Bank of India. This is only because India has followed the golden median of tradition and transformation.

Going by these words, we can find an Indian techie well versed in all the latest languages of the computers having the picture of a god and a goddess as a screensaver on his desktop. But at the same time, we also can see a poor fisherman or a laborer using the mobile phone for the sake of communication. This is a beautiful example of tradition and transformation in India. Indian agriculture over a period of time has followed only a tradition and did not undergo transformation. The reason for this can be discussed at a different forum. But it is true to say that Indian agriculture is undergoing the doldrums only because it did not undergo the transformation needed for its development. Hence we can see still the bullock carts in the villages which have been the backbone of Indian agriculture some hundred years ago. The leaders of the country did not see a vision in development of agriculture and if the same thing continues it may not be a surprise that India may have to import food grains from foreign countries for feeding its huge population. It is for sure if the latest agricultural techniques are implemented in the field of agriculture, we can have another green revolution having its impact for the next hundred years. This is a great example of the importance of the median between the tradition and transformation.

It is said that India lives in its villages. But, the policy makers sitting in the power corridors without understanding the importance of agriculture in Indian economy have of late gone for SEZ (special economic zones) for converting the agricultural lands for establishing industries, the future of which is not definite which has been a cause for social skirmishes and thereby causing unwanted social disturbances. A livid example for this is Nandigram in west Bengal. If there are more Nandigrams like this there will be more skirmishes in the rural areas permanently spoiling the required peace and tranquility in the rural areas.

Even in personal life if somebody follows the tradition and undertakes the transformation that is required for development, he can never be a failure. In Indian tradition, gold is supposed to be the best investment and today you can see even the best financial consultant suggesting you to invest in gold or gold bonds or any other instrument that is laced with gold. The economy may go bust, the stock market may turn bearish, the bubble of sub prime lending may burst, but, the tradition of investing in gold will never make you loose.

More than 70% of India’s population lives in its 6 lakh villages.

चैक ट्रंकेशन

चैक ट्रंकेशन

हम सब जानते हैं कि समय के साथ साथ बैंकिं्रग का स्वरूप भी बदलता जा रहा है। उदारीकरण तथा भूमंडलीकरण ने बैंकिंग के प्रक्रियागत स्वरूप व बैंकिंग संकल्पना को एक नया मोड प्रदान किया और नित्य परिवर्तनशील सूचना व प्रौद्योगिकी ने तो बैंकिंग की मूल अवधारणा, उसकी परंपरागत सोच और उसकी क्रियाविधि में क्रांतिकारी परिवर्तन लाया है।

इसी संदर्भ में चैक ट्रंकेशन प्रणाली बैंकिंग का एक अद्यतन विषय है। निकट भविष्य में भारतीय बैंकिंग उ़द्य़ोग में समाशोधन के संबंध में चैक ट्रंकेशन प्रणाली का बहुत अधिक महत्व होनेवाला है। बैंकिंग के इस नए आयाम के बारे में आम तौर पर यही कहा जा सकता है कि इस प्रणाली का मुख्य उद्देश्य चैक के आहरणकर्ता द्वारा जारी किया गया भौतिक चैक आहरिती शाखा को भेज दिए जाने की प्रक्रिया को समाप्त करना है। इसके कारण चैक का समाशोधन एक ही दिन में संभव होगा। चैको के समाशोधन व निपटान के लिए बैंकों द्वारा कागजी चैक नहीं किंतु उनकी प्रतिकृति ;इमेजद्ध भेजी जाएगी।

चैक ट्रंकेशन एक ऐसी प्रक्रिया होती है, जिस में किसी बैंक में या बैंकों के बीच या बैंकों और समाशोधन गृह के बीच चैकों का भौतिक चलन कम किया जाता है या बंद किया जाता है तथा आगे के संसाधन और प्रसारण के लिए उन्हें उनकी विषयवस्तु को पूर्ण रूप से या आंशिक रूप से प्रतिस्थापित किया जाता है। अतः चैक ट्रंकेशन का मतलब यही है कि चैकों को उनके भुगतान के लिए एक बैंक से दूसरे बैंक में भौतिक रूप से भेजने के बदले अब सिर्फ उनकी प्रतिकृतियां संगत सूचना के साथ भेजी जाएंगी। इससे चैक संसाधन में अपेक्षित समय कम हो जाएगा, जब कि परंपरागत समाशोधन प्रणाली में इसके लिए 2 या 3 दिन लग जाते हैं। कुछ मामलों में तो स्थानीय चैको को छोड कर बाहरी चैको के लिए तो एक सप्ताह या उससे अधिक समय भी लगता है।

उदाहरण के लिए यदि इंडियन बैंक की मैलापूर शाखा में आप का एक बचत बैंक खांता है और आप को अपने दोस्त से केनरा बैंक का एक चैक प्राप्त हुआ है। अपने दोस्त द्वारा दिए गए चैक को आपने इंडियन बैंक की मैलापूर शाखा के अपने खाते में जमा किया है। इंडियन बैंक की मैलापूर शाखा अपनी तरफ से समाशोधन की प्रक्रिया में चैक का ट्रंकेशन करेगी। अपने दोस्त से प्राप्त केनरा बैंक का चैक इंडियन बैंक की मैलापूर शाखा में ही रहेगा। इंडियन बैंक की मैलापूर शाखा आप के चैक की प्रतिकृति लेगा और अपनी सेवा शाखा या समाशोधन गृह के जरिए अन्य संगत विवरण के साथ उसको भारतीय रिजर्व बैंक को भेजेगी। भारतीय रिजर्व बैंक केनरा बैंक से राशि वसूल करेगा और इंडियन बैंक को भेजेगा। अंत में चैक की राशि आपके खाते में जमा की जाएगी।

इससे बैंको के चल निधि समय में कमी तो जरूर होगी, लेकिन बैंको के लिए इससे बहुत फायदे होंगे। बैंको की चैक समाशोधन प्रणाली में काफी दक्षता हासिल की जाएगी व इस से संबंधित कार्य समय कम हो जाएगा। चैक ट्रंकेशन के कारण ग्राहक सेवा में वृद्धि होगी, चैकों की वसूली लागत में कमी होगी,, लेखा समाधान समस्या कम हो जाएगी तथा लाजिस्टिक्स की समस्या दूर होगी,। इस के कारण समाशोधन प्रणाली से संबंधित धोखेबाजी को भी कम किया जा सकता है। सेवा शाखा में या इन क्रियाकलापों को चलाने वाले स्टाफ की अपेक्षित संख्या कम हो जाएगी। इस प्रक्रिया में आटोमेशन या स्वचालन के कारण बैंक के लिए परिचालन लागत भी कम होगी।

भारत में चैक ट्रंकेशन एक अनोखा प्रयोग होगा, क्यों कि यहां चैकों का परिमाण बहुत अधिक होता है। वार्षिक तौर पर देश में 1़ण्2 बिलियन लिखतांे का संसाधन होता है। भविष्य में बडी कंपनियां और सरकारी अभिकरण जो बडी संख्या में चैकों में लेनदेन करते हैं, अपने बैंकों से एक गठबंधन कर सकते हैं तथा भौतिक चैंकों को भजने के बजाए, वे संबंधित शाखा को स्कैन की गई प्रतिकृतियां भेज सकते हैं, जो उन्हें भारतीय रिजर्व बैंक को उनके निपटान के लिए अग्रेषित करेंगे।

इसके अलावा, एटीएमों में भी चैक ट्रंकेशन किया जा सकता है। ग्राहक मशीन में चैक रख कर उसकी प्रतिकृति भेज सकता है। चैक को समाशोधन व निपटान के लिए संबंधित सेवा शाखा को भेज दिया जाएगा और ग्राहक को इसकी रसीद प्राप्त होगी।

भारतीय रिजर्व बैंक ने राष्ट्रीय राजधानी क्षेत्र दिल्ली में पाइलट आधार पर इसे आरंभ किया है। उन्होंने चैक ट्रंकेशन प्रणाली की सफलता को देखते हुए देश के अन्य केन्द्रों में इसका विस्तार करने का निर्णय किया है। वर्तमान के राष्ट्रीय राजधानी क्षेत्र दिल्ली में 70 प्रतिशत चैकों का समाशोधन चैक ट्रंकेशन प्रणाली के जरिए किया जा रहा है। आगे चेन्नै में चैक ट्रंकेशन प्रणाली का कार्यान्वयन आरंभ होनेवाला है।

आशा है कि निकट भविष्य में भारत के सभी स्थानों में चैक ट्रंकेशन प्रणाली का कार्यान्वयन किया जाएगा तथा बैंक व बैंक ग्राहक इसका भरपूर लाभ उठाएंगे।

आज के किसान की स्थिति

आज के किसान की स्थिति

अभी भी हमारे अधिकतर किसान अपेक्षित सिंचाई सुविधा के अभाव में वर्षा पर आधारित रहते हैं। लेकिन इसका नतीजा ऐसा होता है कि वर्षा अधिक होती है तो फसल नष्ट होती है वर्षा कम होती है तो भी फसल कम होती है और वर्षा सामान्य रूप से होती है और फसल काफी मात्रा मे होती है तो भी उसकी स्थिति में कोई फर्क नही पडता क्योंकि बाजार में दर गिरने से उनको अपेक्षित लाभ नहीं होता। इसलिए किसान को हमेंशा कर्ज में ही रहना पडता है।

Check list for Travel

Check list

1. Ticket confirmation Both onward and return and noting the timimgs
2. Ticket copy – Check the ticket details like spelling of name
3. Identity card necessary for e-ticket
4. Identity card necessary for training etc
5. House key
6. Money required
7. Type of suitcase
8. Dresses Formal according to the no. of days of stay
9. Dresses casual including hand kerchiefs
10. Dresses inner clothes
11. Soap and other toiletry
12. Tooth Brush and Paste
13. Towels
14. Food packs for the journey onward and return
15. Water
16. Footwear – Formal and bathroom
17. Confirmation of route map and familiarity with the same
18. Arrangements for pickup at Railway station and drop
19. Material required for the trip like Study material, pen drive if it is for
training
20. Reaching the Railway station or bus stand at least by 30 minutes before
departure
21. Auto or Train and the timings thereof
22. Count the no of luggages being carried
23. Mobile phone and Charger

Tamil Nadu Government Holidays for the year 2011

Saturday the 1st of January New Year’s Day **
Saturday the 15th of January Tamil New Year's Day / Pongal **
Sunday the 16th of January Thiruvalluvar Day **
Monday the 17th of January Uzhavar Thirunal
Wednesday the 26th of January Republic Day
Wednesday the 16th of February Meelad-un-Nabi
Friday the 1st of April Annual Closing of Accounts for Commercial and Co-operative Banks *
Monday the 4th of April Telugu New Year’s Day
Thursday the 14th of April Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's Birthday
Saturday the 16th of April Mahaveer Jayanthi **
Friday the 22nd of April Good Friday
Sunday the 1st of May May Day **
Monday the 15th of August Independence Day
Sunday the 21st of August Krishna Jayanthi **
Wednesday the 31st of August Ramzan
Thursday the 1st of September Vinayakar Chathurthi
Friday the 30th of September Half yearly Closing of Accounts for Commercial and Co-operative Banks *
Sunday the 2nd of October Gandhi Jayanthi **
Wednesday the 5th of October Ayutha Pooja
Thursday the 6th of October Vijaya Dasami
Wednesday the 26th of October Deepavali
Monday the 7th of November Bakrid
Tuesday the 6th of December Muharram
Sunday the 25th of December Christmas **
** Though the New Year's Day (1st January 2011), Tamil New Year's Day and Pongal (15th January 2011), Thiruvalluvar Day (16th January 2011), Mahaveer Jayanthi (16th April 2011), May Day (1st May 2011), Krishna Jayanthi (21st August 2011), Gandhi Jayanthi (2nd October 2011) and Christmas (25th December 2011) fall on Saturdays and Sundays, they have been indicated in the above list for easy reference.
* Applicable only to Commercial Banks including Co-operative Banks in Tamil Nadu

Andhra Pradesh Government Holidays for the year 2011

Andhra Pradesh Government Holidays for the year 2011

1. Bhogi : 14.01.2011 (Friday)
2. Sankranti/Pongal: 15.01.2011 (Saturday)
3. Republic Day: 26.01.2011 (Wednesday)
4. Mild-Un-Nabi : 16.02.2011 (Wednesday)
5. Mahasivaratri: 02.03.2011 (Wednesday)
6. Holi: 19.03.2011(Saturday)
7. Ugadi: 04.04.2011 (Monday)
8. Babu Jagjivan Ram's Jayanthi : 05.04.2011 (Tuesday)
9. Srirama Navami : 12.04.2011 : (Tuesday)
10. Dr. BR Ambedkar's Jayanthi : 14.04.2010 (Thursday)
11. Good Friday: 22.04.2011 (Friday)
12. Independence Day: 15.08.2011 (Monday)
13. Sri Krishna Ashtami : 23.08.2011 (Tuesday)
14. Ramjan : 31.08.2011 (Wednesday)
15. Vinayaka Chavithi : 01.09.2011 (Thursday)
16. Durga Ashtami : 04.10.2011 (Tuesday)
17. Vijaya Dasami (Dasara) : 06.10.2011 (Thursday)
18. Diwali (Deepavali): 26.10.2011 (Wednesday)
19. Bakrid (Id-Ul-Zuha) : 07.11.2010 (Monday)
20. Mohram: 06.12.2011 (Tuesday)

Festivals Occurring On Sundays in 2011:

1. Gandhi Jayanthi: 02.10.2011
2. Christmas: 25.12.2011

List of Optional Holidays in 2011:

1. New Year's Day: 01.01.2011 (Saturday)
2. Arbayeen : 25.01.2011 (Tuesday)
3. Sri Panchami: 08.02.2011 (Tuesday)
4. Yaz Dahum Shareef : 17.03.2011 (Thursday)
5. Mahaveer Jayanthi: 16.04.2010 (Saturday)
6. Syed Mohd. Juvanpuri Medi Ma'ud Jayathi: 20.04.2011 (Wednesday)
7. Basava Jayanthi: 06.05.2011 (Friday)
8. Budda Purnima : 17.05.2010 (Tuesday)
9. Hazrath Ali Birthday: 16.06.2011 ( Thursday)
10. Shab-E-Meraz : 30.06.2010 (Thursday)
11. Varalakshmi Vratam: 12.08.2011 (Friday)
12. Parsi New year : 19.08.2011 (Friday)
13. Jamat-Ul-Vida : 26.08.2011 (Friday)
14. Mahalaya Amavasya : 27.09.2011 (Tuesday)
15. Maha Navami : 05.10.2011 (Wednesday)
16. Kartika Purnima / Gurunanak Jayathi: 10.11.2011 (Thursday)
17. 9th Muharram : 05.12.2011 (Monday)
18. Eid-E-Gadeer : 16.12.2011 (Friday)
19. Christmas Eve: 24.12.2011 (Satruday)
20. Boxing Day: 26.12.2011 (Monday)

Festivals Occurring on Second Saturday and Sundays:

1. Kanuma : 16.01.2011 (Sunday)
2. Rath Yatra: 03.07.2011 (Sunday)
3. Shab-E-Barath : 17.07.2011 (Sunday)
4. Rakhi Purnima : 13.08.2011(Saturday)
5. Shab-E-Qadar : 28.08.2011 (Sunday)

Youth and moral values

Most of the young people are living in the future. Their values, attitudes and behavior are more in line with the way the world will work in future, than the way it works today. Their ideas are changing as we move from an industrial to a modern world. But, the final shape of the future is far from clear.
The generation which is now between the age of 18 and 30 were all born in 1980 or later. Their teens and adult life have occurred since 1980 and as a result their values and attitudes have been shaped and influenced by the events which have occurred since then. They lived in an age of many technological developments and economic changes. As a result, they live in a world which is more complex than at any earlier times.
The world in 1980 was a very different place: we had no PCs, mobile phones, Sony Walkmans, Cd's, satellite TV, or MTV not to mention the Internet. These and other technologies have become commonplace, bringing the world to them.

In the 1980s, assassinations and terrorism became more widespread and this brought violence and a sense of vulnerability and threat to our doorsteps. During the 1980s and 1990s a whole range of issues which cross boundaries between public and private domains, national and international spheres have become part of our daily lives engaging their hearts, minds and activities in new ways.
The youth have grown up with these changes. What is new to the older people is routine for the youth. They are starting from a very different baseline in almost any area of life.
Just as the world they have grown up in is fundamentally different, so are the values they have developed in response to it. We have moved from a world where everything was certain to a world where the unthinkable can happen. Because of all these changes the shift in moral values has taken place.

Young people's behavior, attitudes and approach to life regularly receive a lot of criticism from the elder people. The values gap and the resulting criticism and misunderstandings are the result of the shift in values and priorities from generation to generation, especially in this latest generation. The older generations, the organizations they have developed and the mental models they rely on are anchored in values which have been shaped by a very different world.
The younger generation is more aware of its own individuality. As a result of their own greater emphasis on individuality combined with the apparent failure of many of the traditional institutions of society - Temple, family, politics, the law, the nation state - young people are turning away from convention and finding new ways of expressing and acting on their beliefs and ideals. The result is a change from a society where an agreed single set of norms were adhered to and maintained through the auspices of core institutions, to one where the personal ethics of the individual and the rules of a whole host of smaller communities prevail.
Creativity and self expression are a way of life for this generation and enable them to combine and move between all aspects of their lives in a seamless transition. Music, art, video, film, VR, animation - all provide the opportunity to explore their own identity while also enabling them to be seen and heard. This generation have the confidence and the technology to liberate their creative .
The opportunities to form relationships and the resulting range and nature of those relationships are almost unlimited. Meeting and talking to friends across the world on the Net is rapidly taking over form talking to friends from school. With the new technologies come new possibilities to from a completely new perspective.
Developing new skills, new services and new approaches to old problems will be critical. Relying on tradition to define your life and make decisions requires much less effort than taking control of your own destiny. To make choices and thrive, not just survive, people will need new forms of stability. Stability that comes not from external structures and clearly defined routes forward, but from inner strength and awareness and moral values such as respecting elders, compassion, humanity, empathy, emotional stability.
The teachers should give a greater emphasis on life skills, the ability to form relationships, to communicate effectively, to negotiate and cope with transitions and change. Young people are already very good at these areas of skill. Their disaffection with the education system as it stands may in large part be the clash between old style emphasis on content and control, versus anew values emphasis on emotional intelligence. What we are witnessing is are definition of the knowledge base: a move away from the traditions of formal and explicit knowledge as the primary if not only focus of education, to the inclusion of and increasingly greater emphasis on the intangible in all its guises.
The ability to continue to develop a range of skills continuously is one of the essential characteristics of the future. Life long learning is necessary to maintain employability.
I'll do it my way - This is increasingly the byword of the younger generation. They are more likely to want to work for themselves, have their own company and be their own boss than previous generations. Young people are also more likely to look to their own age group for advice and help than go to conventional institutions. Whereas the older generations are talking about downshifting, the desire to find more time, a greater sense of meaning in their lives, more balance between living and working: the younger generation are doing it, and starting out with that in mind.

Top 10 Reasons to Turn Off Your TV

Top 10 Reasons to Turn Off Your TV
Turning off your television will gain you, on average, about 4 hours per day. Imagine if you took that time to exercise, give your brain a workout and develop strong relationships. Not only would you be adding years to your life, you would become more interesting, energetic, and fun. So take the plunge and try not watching TV for a week. At first it will be strange and awkward, but stick with it and soon you will love all the extra time.
1. Television Eats Your Time
The average U.S. adult watches more than 4 hours of television a day. That's 25 percent of waking time spent every day. Imagine if you suddenly had 25 percent more time -- that's three extra months per year! You could get in all your exercise, cook your meals from scratch and still have time left over to write a novel.
Over a lifetime, an 80-year-old person would have watched 116,800 hours of television, compared to only 98,000 hours of work. As a nation, adults watch 880 million hours of television every day or 321 billion hours per year. Whew! Imagine what could get done if we all just stopped watching TV.
2. Television Makes You Stressed
With the average of four hours a day gone, it's no wonder everyone is feeling stressed out and overwhelmed. We put aside paying bills, finishing projects, making phone calls and cleaning our homes to watch TV. We feel overwhelmed because of all the things we should be doing (exercising, spending time with family, eating right) go undone.
And when we feel overwhelmed, tired, and exhausted we don't have energy to anything but -- you guessed it -- watch TV. It is a dreadful cycle. So take a break from TV for a week and see what happens to your life.
3. Television Makes You Overweight
Eating while distracted limits your ability to assess how much you have consumed. According to Eliot Blass at the University of Massachusetts, people eat between 31 and 74 percent more calories while watching TV.
This could add, on average, about 300 calories extra per TV meal. Now consider that at least 40 percent of families watch TV while eating dinner. It becomes clear that TV is a big part of the obesity epidemic in the country and that TV, in fact, makes you gain weight.
4. Television Makes You Uninteresting
Many people have whole conversations that are recaps of TV programs, sporting events and sitcoms. When asked about their real lives, there is little or nothing to report and no stories to tell (except the TV shows they have watched).
Life is too interesting and wonderful to spend your time either watching TV or recapping television to your friends. Find something interesting to do: volunteer, read, paint -- anything but watch more TV.
5. Television Ruins Your Relationships
A television is turned on an average of 7 hours and 40 minutes per day in many U.S. households. With the TV on that much, there is little time for you and your significant other or children to spend time together, share experiences, and develop deeper relationships.
Sitting together and watching TV does not grow a relationship. Turn that TV off and find something to do together -- cooking, exercising, taking a walk, anything.

6. Television is Not Relaxation
TV is the opposite of exercise. If you are watching TV you are usually sitting, reclining or lying down. You are burning as few calories as possible. All that extra food you eat while watching TV does not get burned off. Your brain goes into a lull.
But you are not relaxing -- your mind is still receiving stimuli from the TV, you are processing information and reacting emotionally. Have you ever found yourself thinking about TV characters? Do you ever dream about TV shows? These are signs that the brain is working hard to process all the TV you have been watching.

7. Television Loses Opportunities
If you are sitting and watching TV, nothing new or exciting is going to happen to you. New opportunities and ideas come from being out in the world, talking to people, and reading interesting things.
Watching TV isolates you. Nothing is going to change in your world if you are watching TV. Turn off the TV, go out into the world, talk to people, and see what happens.
8. Television is Addictive
Television can become addictive. Signs of TV addiction include:
• using the TV to calm down
• not being able to control your viewing
• feeling angry or disappointed in how much TV you watched
• feeling on edge if kept from watching
• feeling a loss of control while watching
If the idea of giving up TV for a week is horrifying, you may be addicted to television. Luckily, TV addiction is a habit and not a physical addiction like smoking. You should be able to control it once you are aware of the problem and make a decision to change.
9. Television Makes You Buy Things
You will be viewing several lakhs of commercials. Your knowledge of products and brands comes from these TV commercials. Your perception of what you need also comes from these commercials. It will tempt you to buy some unwanted things also.Our perception of need is determined by what we see. Need less by watching less TV.
10. Television Costs Money and spoils children's education
You have to pay for a basic cable package and many packages cost much more also.. For that much money you could buy a gym membership, buy a nice bicycle, invest it every year for 10 years at 10 percent interest and have more money.