Onam - POOKKALAM

 Pookkalam ( Floral Rangoli ) is one of the most prominent aspects of the Onam festival. It’s the creation of intricate and colorful designs, Malayalees decorate at the entrances of their homes with beautiful patterns made from various types of flowers. Each day of the festival, the size and complexity of the Pookkalam increase, reaching its pinnacle on the tenth and final day ending with Onam. 

Pookkalams showcase rich social and cultural heritage and hold significant symbolism, in addition to their captivating beauty. Its design conveys the DNA it shares with other floral designs found in other parts of India like rangoli carpets, showcasing its rich historical heritage. Furthermore, Pookalams are followed by the cleaning of homes, they bring together multiple people, and are also symbolic of being one with nature – therefore, it is heavily associated with the prosperity, sanctity, and harmony of families and the community as a whole. 

The tradition of laying the Onam Pookalam (floral carpet) begins, marked by Atham Nakshatram in the month of Chingam on the Malayalam calendar. ( Chingam 21, this year 1200 on the Malayalam calendar), and culminates on the 10th day of Tiruvonam. This year Onam is celebrated between the 6^th  to 15^th of September 2024.

 Day 1: Kashumala**

 The first day’s floral design marked by Atham Nakshatra is inspired by the Kashumala necklace, a cherished piece of jewelry symbolizing grace and heritage passed down through generations. 

Kashumala is believed to represent Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, prosperity, and good fortune. "Kashu" refers to the gold coins used to craft the necklace.

 

Day 2: Mani Mala**

On the second day of Onam, marked by Chithra Nakshatra the Pookkalam (floral carpet) is offered in reverence to Lord Ganesha on the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi. 

The featured jewelry is the Mani Mala, a simple yet elegant necklace made of gold ball-shaped beads. Traditionally worn by women in Kerala, this timeless piece adds grace to everyday attire, symbolizing beauty in simplicity. In  Pookkalam, the Mani Mala is displayed as the crown of Lord Ganapathy.

 

Day 3 : Pathakkam / Addil*

The third day of Onam festivities falls on Chothi Nakshatram and  Pookkalam is themed on another traditional necklace called Pathakkam or Addil.

Addil is a traditional necklace women wear in Kerala, especially during important cultural and religious occasions.

 The Addil typically consists of a central pendant known as the "Pathakkam", which is often large and intricately designed, surrounded by a chain of smaller gold or gem-encrusted elements.

Day 4 : Thalikkoottam 

Vishakham Nakshatram falls on Day 4 of the Onam festivities.  Pookkalam (floral carpet) is laid with local flowers that are traditionally plucked from the wild during the Onam season. The flowers used today are Chembarathi (hibiscus), thechi (Ixora), chembakam (frangipani), and manja arali (yellow bell flower).  To suit this local practice, a very traditional ornament called Thalikoottam is presented.. Thali means the Mangalsutra pendant and Koottam means grouping. Thalikoottam thus means a necklace formed by a group of Thalis strung together to form an exquisite piece of jewelry.  The Thalikoottam is displayed in an Uruli (traditional brass round bowl).

 Day 5: Jhimikki*

Anizham Nakshatram marks the fifth day of Onam celebrations.

 Pookkalam is themed around *Jhimikki* (also known as *Jhumka* in Hindi), a beloved piece of traditional jewelry. Fun fact: the *Jhimikki* gained widespread fame through the popular song "Ente Ammede Jhimikki Kammal" (My Mother’s Jhimikki Earring)! 😄

A *Jhimikki* is a traditional Indian earring, often large, ornate, and dangling. These earrings are typically worn by Malayali women as part of traditional South Indian attire. They come in various designs and are commonly crafted from gold, silver, or other metals, often embellished with gemstones or pearls.

Day 6: Nagapadam*

Triketta Nakshatram marks the sixth day of the grand Onam celebration. As the festival draws closer to its culmination, Kerala is filled with a palpable sense of joy and jubilation.

 *Pookkalam* (floral carpet) features the iconic *Nagapadam* necklace, a traditional piece of jewelry often paired with the classic off-white and gold *Mundu Veshti*( Traditional Kerala Dress ).. This lovely combination takes center stage in the floral design symbolizing the deep-rooted traditions of Kerala.

The *Nagapadam* derives its name from the serpent’s hood (*naga*), with the centerpiece shaped like a cobra’s hood, representing protection and power. Adorned with green gemstones, this exquisite necklace is typically worn during special occasions, signifying auspiciousness and prosperity.

Day 7: Palakka*

Moolam Nakshatram marks the seventh day of the 10-day Onam festival, a day rich in tradition and devotion.

 Showcased here is the Palakka necklace, famously worn by Baby Krishna, or Unnikannan, the revered deity of Guruvayur.

According to folklore, the origins of Palakka jewelry trace back to the Dwapara Yuga, when Lord Krishna walked the earth. The design is believed to be inspired by the Pala tree (Milkwood Pine), with the necklace’s signature leaf-shaped motifs resembling the tree’s leaves.

The highlight is the Vyaali Palakka, where the mythical Vyaali—an emblem of power and protection—takes center stage. This fierce, lion-like figure is intricately carved and embossed into the heart of the Palakka design, making it both a symbol of beauty and strength.

 Day 8: Mullamottu*

The eighth day of Onam, marked by the Pooradam Nakshatram, is when King Mahabali is traditionally invited to visit the homes of his people.

For this day’s Pookkalam (floral carpet), the theme is inspired by the Mullamottu Mala (which means "Jasmine Buds Garland"). The jasmine buds, represented by white flowers, symbolize purity and simplicity and are central to today's floral design.

A "Mullamottu Necklace" refers to a jewelry design inspired by the arrangement of jasmine buds in a garland-like fashion. Known for its intricate craftsmanship, this design mirrors the delicate and graceful appearance of jasmine flowers, offering a blend of elegance and natural beauty.

 Day 9: Navaratna Mothiram (Ring)*

Uthradam is the ninth day of the 10-day Onam festival known as the Onam Eve. It is a day of preparation for the grand Onam festival, for the last day.

Today's Pookkalam is inspired by the Navaratna Mothiram, believed to bring four-fold blessings: Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha. According to Vedic astrology, women wear the ring on their left hand, and men on their right.

The Navaratna Mothiram features nine gems, each representing a celestial body in Vedic astrology, and is said to bring good fortune and balance planetary energies.

Onam 2024 – Day 10 – Thiruvonam is the last day of the 10-day Onam festival which culminates on Thiruvonam Nakshatram on the Malayalam calendar.  A few traditional pieces like Poothali, Ilakkathali, Puliyamothiram, and Kazhuthila are missed here. On Thiruvonam a traditional Pookkalam with the Thrikkakkara Appan deity in the centre. Thrikkakara Appan is the presiding deity at the famous Thrikkakara temple in Ernakulam, which is closely associated with Onam. It is believed that Vamana had sent Mahabali to this place where the holy feet (Trikkaal) of  Maha Vishnu were touched – and thus this spot.

ONAM is a festival of joy and happiness. May your home remain filled with prosperity and happiness

 throughout the year. HAPPY ONAM TO ALL MY READERS!

COURTESY: KNSS, Bangalore, for the input and pictures 

Staying true to the Path

Staying True to the Path: A Spiritual Journey

A young man on a righteous mission recently sought clarification from his Guru.

Question: We were a group of young people involved in a spiritual mission. Some of them have left us for some reason. Not only have they left, but they are also working against us.

What should we do? To do nothing in return?

Answer: Suppose it is raining in the morning when you need to go home in an emergency. You take an umbrella and continue your journey, right? That's all you need to think. No goal comes easily. If we accept this, it means we are lost or our goal is not true.

Therefore, when going on important missions, we should focus on something other than who is with us but focus on being true to ourselves rather than straying from our goal. Always look within and be convinced that you are on the right path with God.

Q: Swamiji, those who left were so necessary. But the problem is, how can you work against them?

A: No one is separated from anyone. It is only that all are established in Him. Even if a horse has run a long distance to take us to our destination, if we have to cross a river on the way, it cannot run through water. It doesn't matter if it's misquoted or misrepresented. If we force ourselves to enter the water, it will happen to us. Is it okay to ask how can you behave like this after being with me for so long? It doesn't even understand your language. Gratefully leaving it to graze on the river bank, the traveler finds a boat or swims across to the other side.

The registration fee for tug of war is the same as for the conflict in our minds. If there is a conflict, we have paid the fee for the tug-of-war competition. If you pull the rope, you will win, expending all your energy, leaving no spare time to walk towards the goal. So let go of enmity.

God is the source of goodness for everyone. If someone claims to have separated from you, it's best to let go and move forward. Just like a tug-of-war rope, if no one is on the other side pulling, there's no reason to continue holding on. Each person can live their life independently and in their own way.

Q: Swamiji suggests that we should proceed while thinking of Bhagavan.

A: Once they realize that we are correct, won't they come with us? Our way is the right way. Whoever reaches the goal is right. It is to be measured in the final reckoning. Leave it be. That measurer is above us. Let him do it. Right and wrong are relative. Only truth is eternal. Don't let go of the truth. It doesn't matter who comes along. It can only be said that those who are supposed to come will succeed.

Q: Swamiji, our goal is to bring the maximum number of people to Bhagavan.

 A: That's great. But first, let's seek blessings. Then, follow His command and act. That's the best way to achieve the goal.

🙏🌹🙏

Source: Unknown 

Lord Ganesha and his lessor known sister

 "OM GANAPATHAYE NAMAH "

Lord Ganesha's influence goes beyond temples and rituals, reaching into the daily lives of his followers. His images are frequently seen in homes, workplaces, and even vehicles, constantly reminding him of his divine guidance and protection.

People often begin their activities by invoking Ganesha’s blessings, seeking his assistance in overcoming obstacles, and ensuring success in their endeavors. From simple tasks to significant milestones, Ganesha is believed to grant his devotees the strength and wisdom necessary to navigate life’s challenges.

Ganesha is widely revered as the remover of obstacles. His elephant head represents wisdom, intelligence, and foresight, while his human body signifies strength and adaptability. Devotees believe that by seeking Ganesha’s blessings and guidance, they can overcome physical and spiritual challenges in their lives.

Most of us are familiar with Ganesha's familial relationships, including his parents, Lord Shiva, and Goddess Parvati, and his brother Lord Kartikeya.

But did you know Lord Ganesha also had a sister who is less known but is equally significant?

In Hindu mythology, amidst a plethora of gods and goddesses, there are often overlooked tales and stories that exist in the shadows of more prominent deities. One such tale is that of Ashokasundari, the sister of Lord Ganesha—a mysterious and enchanting story deeply embedded in the mythological tapestry.

The story of Ashokasundari begins with her illustrious parentage. She is considered to be the daughter of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, two of the most revered deities in Hinduism. Born in the celestial abode of Kailash Parvat, her existence is shrouded in mystique.

Goddess Parvati, known for her grace and beauty, often found herself longing for companionship during Lord Shiva’s prolonged absences. Shiva, the ascetic deity who frequently left Kailash Parvat to engage in battles against demons and meditate in seclusion, was not always by her side. In her solitude, Parvati yearned for a companion who would fill the void in her heart.

During a moment of solitude, Parvati and Shiva found a wish-fulfilling tree called the Kalpavriksha. This extraordinary tree was believed to have the power to grant any wish, and it captivated the divine couple. Filled with longing, Parvati made a heartfelt wish to the Kalpavriksha, asking for a daughter who would bring joy and companionship into her life. In response to Parvati’s earnest plea, the divine tree granted her wish. Thus, Ashokasundari came into existence, a manifestation of the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

The name "Ashokasundari" holds great significance, as is often the case with names in Hindu mythology. "Ashoka" translates to "without sorrow," and it was given to her because she embodied joy and happiness, erasing the sorrow that had once plagued Parvati's heart. "Sundari" means beautiful, reflecting the extraordinary beauty that graced the divine girl. Curiously, despite her divine lineage and the significance of her birth, Ashokasundari remains a relatively mysterious figure in Hindu mythology. The scriptures offer scant information about her, leaving her story veiled in obscurity.

However, she is mentioned in the Padma Purana, one of the ancient texts that narrate her tale.

Ashokasundari's role is mentioned in a few events, one of them being the tragic incident involving Lord Ganesha's beheading. Ashokasundari witnessed the frightening event when Lord Shiva beheaded Ganesha. Frightened by her father's actions, she sought refuge behind a sack of salt, trembling with fear. As the divine drama unfolded, and Lord Ganesha’s head was severed, Goddess Parvati was consumed by anger and grief. In her rage, she not only demanded the restoration of her son’s life but also cursed Ashokasundari. The curse cast upon her was unique and unusual—she was to become a part of the salt itself.

The association of Ashokasundari with salt carries great symbolic significance in Indian culture. In Indian cuisine, salt is considered an essential ingredient as it enhances the flavors of every dish. Without salt, food is often perceived as tasteless and incomplete.

Once Lord Ganesha’s head was miraculously restored by Lord Shiva and the family’s anguish was assuaged, they lovingly restored life to their daughter. Ashokasundari returned to her divine form, her beauty and grace unscathed, and she was once again a source of boundless joy and happiness.

In a world where the stories of gods and goddesses abound, Ashokasundari stands as a reminder that every character, no matter how briefly mentioned, has a role to play in the grand tapestry of mythology. Her story, though shrouded in mystery, is a testament to the enduring power of joy, companionship, and the love that binds a divine family together.

Ashoksundari, the forgotten daughter of Lord Shiva, may not occupy the central stage in Hindu mythology, but her story is a testament to the diversity and richness of the ancient Indian religious tradition.

**

Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated on 7th Sept 2024.

ULLOZHUKKU ( INFLOW )

 

 Kuttanadu, in Kerala, is a small village surrounded by picturesque backwaters that often feature on lists of “India’s most beautiful spots”. The story is of the two natives, Leelamma and Anju who live here. The less said of the living, the better. They are stranded on their island home in the backwaters with flood waters rising, and the country boat is their only link to the outside world. 

Anju and her mother-in-law Leelamma are in a life not of their choosing. One has come to terms with it, tempered by the struggles of family life, and even yearns to protect that way of living, while the other still has some spirit left to fight her way out of it.

While Leelamma reminisces about her joyful early years with her family, Anju is still adjusting to her new home in the backwaters of Kuttanad and coping with her husband, Thomas Kutty's illness. Her only solace is when she can leave the house to meet Rajeev, her fiancé. However, she becomes extremely distressed when she discovers that she is pregnant with her lover's child. To make matters worse, her husband's illness worsens, and he passes away.

As the two women struggle with their turmoil - one having lost her son and the other carrying a baby that isn’t her husband’s - they are pushed into a situation where they are almost fighting for their survival. As a result, they start turning on each other.

Anju discovered that Leelamma had not been honest about Thomaskutty's illness when the marriage proposal was made. She felt like a victim of her mother-in-law's selfishness. Anju also realized that her parents had wanted to marry her off against her wishes to put an end to her relationship with Rajeev once and for all.

Leelamma, grieving the loss of her stillborn baby, sees the child as the only ray of light in her life. She is determined to bequeath her house and properties to Anju and to any future children Anju may have.

But one doesn't need to be taught to see things from Anju's point of view by making the other person look bad. Sometimes, there's no need for justification for why people behaved the way they did. She finally tells Leelamma that the child in her womb is not her son's! They were just two women driven by love. Will the two women learn to look beyond betrayal and accept that true love is about forgiveness?

Leelama and her daughter-in-law Anju have lived for too long on a foundation of lies. The man who connects them both lies in a mortuary, and they must wait for the floodwaters to subside to bury him. As the wait continues, the intricate web of lies around them is exposed, unraveling the essence of human emotions and relationships. 

Relative right and wrong hold no significance in the ebb and flow of human emotions and thoughts. The trajectory of the human mind's ebb and flow is so unpredictable, regardless of its outward calm.

Meanwhile, Rajeev, who is well aware of Anju's situation, reveals his true nature. It seems that greed has taken precedence over his love for her. He encourages her to expedite the property transaction so that they can settle outside the control of their respective families.

It can be said that Anju's emotions are more complex than Leelamma's. They do not follow a linear path and tend to build up like steam in a pressure cooker.

Once the body of her son was prepared for the final journey, Leelamma only had to offer frankincense at her son's gravesite. Drained of energy after years of weeping, she had become speechless.

Anju struggles to face the future following her mother-in-law, either out of love for Leelamma or a sense of defiance in light of the betrayal of her fiancee.

Yes, you are right. The story mentioned above has been adapted into a captivating film titled "Ullozhukku," which was recently screened in theaters.

Urvashi, as Leelamma, and Parvathy Thiruvothu, as Anju, deliver outstanding performances that are the backbone of the film. "Ullozhukku" is a slow-building drama that offers a character study of Leelamma and Anju. It provides different perspectives and leaves questions of right and wrong open for the audience to explore.

Notably, the film explores the emotional dimensions of its characters and delves deeply into their socio-religious backgrounds and the unique geography of their land.

Movie: Ullozhokku

Directed by: Christo Tomy

Starring: Urvashi (Leelamma), Parvathy Thiruvothu, (Anju ) Prashant Murali (Thomas Kutty), Arjun Radhakrishnan Rajeev), Alencier Lopez (Father of Anju)  and Jaya Kurup (Sister of Leelamma)

Shyam's music, and particularly Shehnad Jalal's camerawork, take it up a notch.

NB: In 2024, Smt. Urvashi won the Kerala State Film Award for Best Actress, for the portrayal of Leelamma in"Ullozhukku:

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 The Power of Honesty.

When we embrace honesty in life, a climate of trust develops, leading to healthy attitudes and relationships. Honesty provides an environment for courageous living, free from the time and energy resistance caused by doubts and fears about others.

 "No amount of money can be used to maintain a good name. No matter how well we do, the reward may not come quickly, but if we act with honesty, if we do good in society, we will live on even after we die."

Can honesty be rewarded in the current world situation? Imagine going shopping with a shopkeeper who is always rude to you. You bought some items worth Rs. 70 from there. Then you give him Rs. 100. In return, he gives you Rs. 40 instead of Rs. 30. You didn't notice that at the time. After walking a few steps, you realize that you have received an extra 10 rupees. Now you have two choices - keep the 10 rupees and decide to spend it on yourself, in which case you will feel guilty, or realize that he gave you Rs. 10 by mistake. You decide to go back and give him his money back. This time, things are different. You give the rude shopkeeper his money back, knowing that he will be happy to see you not just once, but all the time. After this, every time you go to his shop, he will greet you with a beautiful smile. This will give you some inner satisfaction. It may be small, but you are happy.

Honesty and wisdom are equally important in life. Being honest does not mean being easily influenced or manipulated. When combined with wisdom, honesty will be beneficial in the long run. Honesty means having a clear and pure heart, filled with love.

Once, in Europe, there was a story of a father and his daughter Sara. As the father lay waiting for death, Sara expressed her disappointment. She told her father, "Daddy, it's unfortunate that you will leave this world without having saved any money. We even live in a rented apartment. You didn't plan for our future at all. Other fathers, whom you call corrupt, manage to save something for their children. But you, Daddy? It's hard for me to look up to you." After saying this, her father passed away, leaving them forever.

Three years later, Sarah went for a job interview at a multinational company. All the key people in the company were present, but the committee chairman interviewed her first.

"Which Smith are you..?"

Sarah replied, "I'm Sarah Smith. My dad is the late Tom Smith.

"Oh my god, are you Tom Smith's daughter?.

Then, he turned to the other members who were with him and said, "Tom Smith is the one who signed my membership form at the Institute of Administrators, and I am here because of his recommendation. He didn't know me, he had never met me, but he did everything for me for free. That's it. He was a good man." After saying this, he said to Sarayotai, "I have no more questions to ask you. Consider yourself hired."Come tomorrow, and I'll wait for you to start the job." He had selected Sarah Smith as the company's corporate affairs manager. In addition to allowances and other expenses, the company provided her with a monthly salary of $75,000, a lovely bungalow to live in, two cars, and a driver to drive them.

After two years in her role, the managing director of the company traveled to the United States to announce her resignation, citing a need for a person with high integrity. The company's consultant recommended Sarah Smith for the managing director position.

Then she had to attend an interview as the company's managing director. The first question they asked her was.

"What is the secret of her success?"

She tearfully replied, "My father made this oatmeal for me. Only after his passing did I realize he was financially poor but rich in discipline and honesty."

In the interview, they asked her again, "It's been years since your daddy died. Why are you still crying like a little child?"

She said, "I hurt my dear father before he passed away. I hope he can forgive me despite the things I said."