Annai & Aurobindo - Part 5

Sri Aurobindo Ashram Darshan Messages :
"Darshan" in Sanskrit means "seeing". It refers here to seeing Sri Aurobindo and the Mother and to receive their blessings. After Sri Aurobindo retired from daily contact with his disciples, he saw them only a few times a year on what came to be known as the Darshan days. During Sri Aurobindo's lifetime, messages were given out only occasionally on the Darshan days; afterwards, they were issued regularly. Some of these were written expressly for the occasion, others were passages chosen from the works of the Mother and Sri Aurobindo. That tradition still continues today. The day starts with a meditation around the samadhi. During the day, sadhaks and devotees are allowed to visit either Sri Aurobindo's or the Mother's room, depending on the occasion. Message cards containing passages from their works are distributed to all who attend the Darshan.



Important dates in Ashram :

Shortly after the Siddhi day in November 1926, Sri Aurobindo retired from daily contact with his disciples and placed the Mother in charge of their care. Thereafter he saw them only a few times a year on what came to be known as Darshan days. The Sanskrit word "Darshan" means "seeing" and refers, in this context, to seeing Sri Aurobindo and the Mother and to receive their blessings. At first there were three Darshan days: the Mother's birthday, Sri Aurobindo's birthday, and the Siddhi day. In 1939 a fourth day was added: the Mother's final arrival in Pondicherry. On these occasions, Sri Aurobindo and the Mother sat together in a small room, while the sadhaks and devotees approached one by one and offered flowers and bowed down at their feet. After Sri Aurobindo left his body in 1950, the Mother continued to give Darshan on these days. From 1963 onwards, she gave Darshan from the terrace for five or ten minutes as she gazed upon those who had gathered in the street below.

Ashram Guest House :

The Ashram offers accommodation in a number of guest houses situated within a mile of the main Ashram building. These guest houses are meant primarily for visitors to Sri Aurobindo Ashram and not for tourists looking out for cheap accommodation during their stay in Pondicherry. Hence strict rules of cleanliness and conduct apply in all the guest houses. Visitors from abroad must be registered at the Government's Foreigners' Registration Office.

(These Details were given by my friend Vidyolatha)

Lord Murugan Temple - Pazhamudircholai

Pazhamudircholai is situated 19 Kms. from the temple town of Madurai. This temple is mentioned as the sixth Arupadai veedu. The place is full of natural beauty and sylvan surroundings. This hill is also known as Virshabhadri or Idabagiri. Most scholars , priests and devotees identify this as the pazhamudircholai , twelve miles north of madurai in the alagar hills.

And this temple is not as large or bustling as the other five recognised shrines , it is just as incredible to visit. At the top of the hill is Noopura Ganga , a perennial waterfall with a temple dedicated to Rakkayi amman . the Noopura Ganga is said to be orignated from the anklet of Tirumal or Vishnu and hence the name of the spring.

Though the stala is of ancient origin , the temple as in existence today was constructed only recently. From days of Yore Vel has been worshipped as the moolavar or main deity. The idol of Lord Muruga in a standing posture has a single face and four hands with Vallu and Teyvayanai on both sides. The vel made up of stone is of special significance and is worshipped with great veneration by devotees.

The sthala Viriksha is a rose apple tree. The fruits of this tree ripen during skanda Sashti festival. The temple that was in existence during sangam period no longer existed in Arunagirinatha's time. The recently constructed temple is considered as Pazhamudircholai and worshipped by devoteed.

source : http://www.palanitemples.com/english/pazhamuthircholai.htm

Subramanya Swami Temple - Tirutani

Amongst Lord Murugan's Arupadi veedu , Tirutani or tirutanikai Malai , ranks prominent as the crown jewel of our Lord. As its name indicates , when we propitiate our Lord in this holy shrine, He blesses us with mental peace and bodily happiness. His righteous indignation towards the asuras for their cruelty is said to have been quelled and cooled at this place which is , therefore , know as Shantipuri . As the prayers and desires of the devotees who worship our Lord Tanikesan on this hill with unserving faith and intense devotion are fulfilled in no time, this hill is also called Chanikasalam.

This temple at Tirutani crowns a single rock 700 feet above the sea level. Around this temple are famous religious places such as Kancheepuram on the south , Sholingar and Vallimalai on the west , Tirupathi and Kalahasti on the North and Tiruvengadu with Lord Nataraja on the East.

When our Lord came to this hill after marrying Goddess Valli at Vallimalai, she implored him to enlighten her on the importance and greatness of this hill. In reply, Lord Muruga said that if anyone worships him with heart and soul for five consequtive days , that person would be blessed with all in his life.

Greatness of Tirutani temple :

Lord Rama , after defeating Ravana came to Rameshwaram and worshipped Lord Shiva , On request Lord Rrama came to Tirutani and worshipped Murugan and Got peace of mind. Arjuna got blessings of Lord Muruga here by offering prayers to him on his way to south for Teertha yatra. Lord Vishnu prayed to Muruga here , and got back his powerful Chakra and Shanku , which was forcebly seized from him by Tarakasura . Lord Brahma propitiated Muruga here at the holy spring known as Brahmasanai after his imprisonment by Murugan for his failure to explain the pranava Mantram and got back his creative function of which he was deprived by Murugan due to his egotistic impudence in neglecting to worship Lord subrahmaya on his way to Mount Kailas to worship Lord shiva. Lord Indra Planted and reared in the pool known as Indrasanai adjoining this hill temple the rare palnt known as karunkuvalai , which gave three flowers a day ans worshipped Lord Murugan thrice daily with these flowers and thus got back the precious wealth of Deva Loka which were seized by the asura Titan. The King of snakes Vasuki got his wounds healed , which had been caused during the churning of the Milky ocean to get the Amritha by the devas and asuras . Sage Agastiyar worshipped Murugan and he was blessed with rare divine gift of Tamil Language .

Legends and Mythology :

The temple is a very old one and scriptures can be used to trace the temple's existence to as early as two thousand years ago. The temple is known be several names some of which are Kunruthor Adal, Thanigachalam, Santhipuri and Skandagiri. Lord Subramanya, it is believed, took to Tiruthani as his abode, after vanquishing the demon called Soorapadman at Tiruchendur. The battle called Soora samharam saw the death of the arrogance of the demon who was transformed into a Seval or Cock that became Muruga's Kodi ( or flag) and the also into a Peacock which became the vehicle of the Lord. At Tiruthani, the swamy is known to be in a very tranquil state, especially after marrying Valli.

Mythology has it that Lord Subrahmanya swamy came in various forms such as a hunter and a old man to test the perseverance of Valli, a girl from the hunter community who undertook a penance to attain oneness with Lord Thanigesan. Vinayaka, his big brother helped Skanda in his efforts to marry Valli, by donning the form of a mad elephant, which scared Valli who scurried for refuge to the old man, none other than Subramanyar himself.

Specialities of Tirutani Malai :

SaravanPoikai :

The Sacred tanks of the shrines are also known as SaravanaPoikai . The tank at tirutani , which is at the foot of the hill , is particularly renowned for it ssacred water having curative effect for ailments , as it is rich in minerals . A bath in this holy tank refreshes the devotee and makes him hale and healthy to propitiate Lord with faith and devotion.

Sapta Rishi Teertham :

At the lovely garden on the south side of this sacred hill , the Seven Rishis are said to have worshipped Lord Muruga and the Sapta Kannikas enshrined at this place in a tiny temple.
On the outskirts of the Tiruttani town, on both sides of the Nandi River, are the ancient temples of Lord Vijayaragama Swami, Arumuga Swami and Veerateeswarar, the latter two of which are more than a thousand years old. In the temple of Arumuga Swami, there is soorya puja every year for three days in March when the rising sun is said to worship Lord Murugan by casting its rays upon the holy Feet of the deity on the first day, Breast on the second day and Head on the third day through a hole in the wall, which reveals the marvellous intellect of the architects of ancient days.

Festivals :

The two outstanding annual festivals are the Aadi Krittikai and the 31st december New year step festival along with the monthly krittikais.

Aadi krittikais : This festival falls between July and August , which lasts for three days witht he float festivals and devotees come to this holy place , carrying the Flower kavadis .

December 31st Step Festival : On the New year day lakhs of devotees are present here to have the darshan of Lord Murugan. This festival came into vogue during the british rule , when famous Vallimalai Swamnigal persuaded his followers to offer their homage to Lord Murugan first and then to thier official boss. On this day all the devotees sings Tiruppugazh songs and burns camphor on each of the hill 365 steps .

The entire atmosphere is filled with the music of these devotional songs, which is a feast to the eyes and ears. The sight of the Vel Kavadi taken to the shrine by some devotees on this day with the thin, sharp ends pricked and pierced all over the body above the hip (in spite of which they carry it with ease and grace) inspires and elevates our thoughts to adore our Lord for His mighty, marvellous and miraculous powers.

Source : http://murugan.org/temples/tiruttani.htm

Akashaya Tritiya

Akshaya tritiya falls on the third lunar day from Amavayasya, which occurs during the suklapaksha month of vaishaka.The reason for this day to be auspicious is the position of Sun and Moon on that particular day. Every year, Akshaya tritiya falls between April 14th and May 14th. This year Akshaya tritiya falls on 27th April 2009 . During the period, Sun will be in Aries which is in exalted position and Moon in Taurus which is also in exalted position.As the Sun, the lord of the planets and the Moon the lord of creativity(sense) are exalted,the day is considered to be an auspicious day in India.

The word Akshaye, a Sanskrit word, literally means "one that never diminishes", and the day is believed to bring good luck and success. It is widely celebrated in all parts of India. The day is particularly considered auspicious for buying long term assets like gold ,silver and diamond ornamentsand other precious stones; and the real estate. The legend states that any venture initiated on the auspicious day of Akshaya Tritiya shall continue to grow and bring prosperity.

According to Legends :

1. It is said that on this day, the Treta yuga had its beginning and the great sage Parasuram, the sixth incarnation of Maha Vishnu was born.
2. According to Hindu mythology, the Ganges river, the most holy and sacred river of India, descended to the earth from the heaven.
3. most popular is that of Sudama or Kuchela visiting Lord Krishna in Dwarka with a handful of beaten rice (poha or aval).
4. the Pandavas received the Akshaya Pathram (bowl) from Lord Krishna (in the Mahabharata) on this day.
5. It is also believed that Sage Vyasa began the composition of Mahabharata on the day.

Pooja :

Lord Vishnu and his incarnations are worshipped on the day. The puja we have to perform on Akshaya Tritiya are as under: Kubera Lakshmi Puja This puja has to be performed on this day only. The puja should commence in the morning and end in the evening. From the next day onwards, one has to perform the puja regularly for 108 times by reciting the moola mantra. A photo of Goddess Lakshmi Devi along with Sudarsana Kubera Yantra could be used for the puja. Light with pure ghee should be used. Also light dhoop sticks with Kumkum and turmeric can be used.

The moola mantra for the pujas is as follows:

Kubera Twam Danadeesam Gruha

Te Kamala Sithta Tam Devem Prehayasu

Twam Madgruhe te Namo Namah.

or by saying " Om Namo Bhagavtey Vasudevahya "

Observance of akshaya tritiya is in india only: (This dates may not be applicable outside of india due to longitude, latitude, sunrise and other differences)

sources : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akshaya_Tritiya

Arulmigu Swaminatha Temple - Swamimalai

Swamimalai is situated about five kilometers west of Kumbakonam on the banks of a tributary of river Cauvery. The temple is built on an artificial hillock of about sixty feet height with sixty beautifully laid stone steps representing the Hindu cycle of sixty years - leading to the Lord . In the ground floor there are temples dedicated to Lord Sundareswarer and Goddesss Meenakshi. This temple is well connected to and surrounded by important places like Kumbakonam, Tiruvidaimarutur, Mayiladuthurai, Papanasam, Tanjavur .Hymns in praise of the presiding deity have been sung by saint Nakkeerar in Tirumurukatrupadaiand by Saint Arunagirnathar in Tiruppukazh.

Legend :

Swamimalai one among the Aarupadai veedu , sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Muruga. The presiding deity here expounded the meaning of the Pranava mantra OM to his own Father Lord Siva Himself.

Mythology says that saint Bhrugu before commencing an arduous tavam or penance, got the boon that anybody disturbing his mediation will forget all his knowledge. Such was the power of the penance that the sacred fire emanating from the head of the saint reached up to the heavens, and the frightened devas surrendered to Lord Siva praying for his grace. The Lord extinguished the sacred fire by covering the saint's head by hand. With the saint's penance thus disturbed the Lord became oblivious of all his knowledge and is said to have regained them by learning the Pranava mantra from Lord Muruga at this shrine.
Once when Brahma, the lord of all creations was proceeding to Kailasa, the ever-playful child Lord Muruga asked him for the meaning of the Pranava "OM". When Brahma admitted his ignorance, the Lord imprisoned him. With Brahma imprisoned, all creations came to a standstill and the devas prayed to Lord Siva to get Brahma released. When Muruga insisted that the imprisonment was a just punishment for the ignorance of Brahma, Lord Siva asked him whether he himself knew the meaning of the primordial Pranava OM. Lord Muruga said that he knew the meaning of OM and can expound it to the latter only if he can accept him as guru and listen to the exposition as a devoted disciple. As Lord Siva acceded to the request of Lord Muruga and heard the exposition of OM as a disciple, the place came to be known as Swamimalai and the presiding deity as Swaminathan.

Pujas and Festivals :

Daily pujas to the deities are performed six times a day (six kalams). Usha Kalam, Kalasandhi and Uchikala poojas are performed in the forenoon and the afternoon poojas commencing from Sayaratchai and Rendam kalam are concluded with Arthajama pooja in the night.

The important festivals conducted in the temple are:

• Monthly Kirutikai festival
• Temple Car festival in April
• Visakam festival in May
• Navaratri festival in May
• Skanda Shashti festival in October
• Tiru Karthigai festival in Nov/December
• Thaipusam festival in January and
• Panguni Uthiram festival in March.
  

Source : http://www.palanitemples.com/english/swamymalai.htm

Lord Murugan Temple - Thiruparamkundram

Tirupparankundram, a hill five miles southwest of Madurai, is the fourth pilgrimage site of Muruga. A cave temple dedicated to the element of earth and mentioned in various classical Tamil texts as the 'Southern Himalaya' where the gods assemble, Tirupparankunram is also mentioned in legend as 'the place where the sun and moon abide'. Murugan was married to Devasena upon the hill and for many centuries the Tamil people have considered it the most auspicious place for their own marriages, especially during the time of the Pankuni Uttiram, the festival of marriage held in late March. Besides the temple to Murugan on the hill, there is also a Muslim shrine dedicated to 'Sekunder' who is associated with Murugan by the Muslim pilgrims. Legend says that , "Sikandar was a friend of Murugan at the time when Murugan was King here".
Significance of the temple :

Thiruparamkundram is located at about 5 kilometers, south-east of Madurai.The presiding deities of the temple is Lord Subhramanya and Devasena.The rock-cut temple is located on the northern side of a hill. The sanctum celebrates the idols of Lord Murugan and Devasena seated beside each other along with the idol of Sage Narada. There are also other images of Godheads engraved on the walls of the shrine witnessing the divine union.There are five theerthams or sacred water sources in and around the temple. They are Saravana Poigai, Lakshmi Theertham, Saniyasi Kinaru, Kasi Sunai and Sathya Koopam.It is also fact that Machchamuni one among the eighteen Siddhars had attained salvation in thiruparamkundram.
Legend :
Long, long ago, when Lord Subrahmanya was staying at Kanda Verpu, the two daughters of Lord Maha Vishnu, Amrita Valli and Sundara Valli, cherished the desire of becoming the consorts of Subrahmanya. With this aim in mind they both went to Saravana Poigai and commenced austere penance to fulfil their desires. Pleased with their prayer and worship, Lord Subrahmanya appeared before them and told Amrita Valli, "You will be brought up by Indra as his daughter and I shall marry you in due course." Her younger sister Sundara Valli was also graced with a similar blessing. She was born to sage Sivamuni and brought up by Nambi. Amrita Valli took the form of a female child and went to Mount Meru, the abode of Indra, and told him, "I am the daughter of Maha Vishnu and the responsibility of looking after me has been entrusted to you." On hearing this, Indra became very happy and directed Airavatam, his white elephant, to take care of the child.The elephant with all love brought her up and affection and she attained the age of marriage in course of time. Hence she came to be known as Devayanai (Deva - Yaanai ), one who was brought up by the heavenly elephant of Indra.
The six sons of sage Parasara were cursed to become fishes in the Saravana Poigai .On request for redemption, these six boys were ordered to pray to Lord Subrahmanya. When they got his darshan, they could get redemption. It was also made known to them that Lord Subrahmanya would come to Tirupparankunram after vanquishing the demon Surapadma. Anxiously they waited for the arrival of Subrahmanya. When the mission of Subrahmanva to vanquish Surapadma was over at Tiruchendur, on his way, he came to this spot followed by all the devas and heavenly beings whom he had released from the untold miseries caused by Surapadma.On his arrival at Tirupparankunram, the sons of Parasara received Subrahmanya and, at their request, he consented to stay there. He at once ordered Viswakarma to construct a beautiful abode for himself, for the devas and for others. He also suggested to the heavenly architect to build roads and erect a city around them.



Indra, the king of the angels, desired to get his daughter Devayanai married to Subrahmanya, as a mark of his gratitude for relieving him and the devas from the depredations of the demon Surapadma.He expressed his desire to Brahma and Vishnu who were present there.When they communicated the desire of Indra to Lord Subrahmanya he readily agreed to it and said: "Devayanai has been praying at Saravana Poigai in the Himalayas for this happy marriage. Now the time has come for its being solemnised." As Subrahmanya agreed to this marriage, Indra sent a messenger to bring his wife Indrani and daughter Devayanai from Mount Meru.The marriage took place at Tirupparankunram, after the victory of Subrahmanya over Surapadma.All arrangements for marriage were made and the marriage was performed at the Tirupparankunram Temple. All the devas, Siva and Parvati attended the marriage and blessed Subrahmanya and Devayanai. Since then, the temple has become a very famous abode of Subrahmanya.
Source : http://www.palanitemples.com/english/thiruparamkundram.htm

ARULMIGU DANDAYUDHAPANI SWAMI TEMPLE - PALANI

Palani Hill Temple and the Idol :

Lord Murugan is the deity in Palani (Tiru Avinankudi) . The temple at Palani is an ancient one, situated at an elevation of 1500 feet above sea level . The deity of Palani is known as Dandayudhapani Swami , is the son of Lord Siva and son-in-law of Vishnu. He has other names such as Kulandaivelan, Balasubrahmanyan, Shanmukhan, Devasenapati, Swaminathan, Vallimanalan, Devayanaimanalan, Palaniandavar, Kurinjiandavar, Arumugan, Jnana Pandita, Saravanan, Sevar Kodiyonthe.

The deity at the sanctum sanctorum is made out of an amalgam of nine minerals popularly called Navabashana. The Lord having the Staff in his Hand. The deity is in a standing position with a baton in his hand. He has the look of a person who has renounced all worldly pomp. He has just a loincloth besides the baton. He is a mute messenger of the great precept 'Renounce all to reach Me'. The icon is unique in the whole world. It was made by siddha Bhogar by combining nine poisonous substances (navabashana).

The Legend or Sthala Purana of Palani :

As per the Hindu mythology, Sage Narada once visited the divine court of Lord Shiva at Mount Kailash. Lord Shiva was with his consort, Goddess Shakti, and their two children, Lord Ganesha and Lord Subrahmanya. Sage Narada gave Lord Shiva a fruit and told him that it was a special one, the fruit of wisdom (Jnana-Pazham).
Lord Shiva wanted his children to have the fruit of wisdom. However, when he offered it to them to be shared between the two sons, Sage Narada requested not to cut the fruit in two, lest the power be diminished. As a result, they had to decide to conduct a simple competition to decide who should get the fruit. Shiva and Shakti decided that the son who first circled the Earth would get the fruit. Immediately accepting the challenge, Lord Murugan started his journey around the globe on his divine vehicle, the peacock. Lord Ganesha, who believed that his parents were his world, simply circumbulated Lord Shiva and Goddess Shakti and claimed the mango fruit. Lord Subrahmanya returned to Mount Kailash, only to find that Lord Ganesha had already won the contest. Lord Murugan felt he had been deceived and decided to leave Mount Kailasam. He reached to top of what is today called Pazhani malai and set up his abode there. Goddess Shakti and Lord Shiva rushed to the hill and tried to pacify their son, calling him, Gnana Pazham Nee appa (in Tamil, "you are the fruit - Pazham; of wisdom - Gnana"). Hence this place came to be called Pazhani, or Palani.

Bhogar Shrine :

The Bhogar Shrine is in the southwestern corridor of the hill temple. Siddhar Bhogar created the icon (the amalgam of nine minerals) and did daily services. He lived long ago, perhaps 3000 BC.

Legend also has it that a divine siddhar named Boghar, created the idol of Dhandayuthapaani using navapashanam, an amalgam made from 9 poisonous elements which on getting mixed develops highly curative powers for many ailments of the human body, according to Sidhha Medicine practice. A small portion with a deity, dedicated to Boghar is also placed inside the temple. the adjoining walls depicts the history of the creation and other facts related to the temple.

In this shrine, pujas are offered to Navadurga, Bhuvaneswari and Maragatha Lingam that were worshipped by Bhogar. It is said that there is a subterranean tunnel linking the shrine with the sanctum sanctorum through which Bhogar is said to go to the main idol and perform daily pujas as he is said to be only in nirvikalpa samadhi.

How Kavadi Tradition Began :

The Kavadi is steeped in Mythology. At Mount Kailash, Lord Shiva entrusted the saint sage Agastya with two hillocks , Sivagiri and Sakthigiri (A small natural hill), with the instruction to carry and install them in South India. But the sage left them in a forest and later asked his disciple, Idumban to get them. Idumban found the two hillocks, but could not intially lift them , untill he obtained divine help. Near Palani in south India, Indumban Kept the hillocks down to rest awhile. When he attempted to continue with his journey , he found that the hillocks were immovable. He then sought the help of a scantily dressed youth , but the youth claimed the hillocks belonged to him. In the ensuing scuffle, Idumban was defeated. Idumban the realised that the youth was Lord Muruga. He pleaded to be pardoned and asked that anyone comes to hills to worship Muruga with an object similar to two hillocks suspended by a rod , may be granted his heart's desire. Idumban's wish was granted, and so the Kavadi came to play its role on the festivals.

Pooja :

There are six pujas every day . At 5 am the Lord gives Visvarupa Darshana and finally ends with Golden Charriot Darshan.

1. Vilaa Pooja (6.30 a.m.)
2. Siru Kall Pooja (8.00 a.m.)
3. Kaala Santhi (9.00 a.m.)
4. Utchikkala Pooja (12.00 noon)
5. Raja Alankaram (5.30 p.m.)
6. Iraakkaala Puja (8.00 p.m.)

Festivals :

Panguniuttiram, Thai Pucam, Kanda Sasthi, Agni Nakshatram are the major festivals. Vaikasi Vishakam, Tirukkarttikai and other festivals are also celebrated.

Pictorial representation of the story of how Palani gots its name :

check this link , where the whole story is well explained through photos :

http://palani.org/pazham_nee.htm

Source : http://murugan.org/temples/palani.htm

Aarupadai Veedu Song

Kandha Sashti Viratham

Kandha Sashti Viratham :
The festival of Kandha Sashti Viratham lasts for six days, starting with the day following the new moon in the month of Aswin, and is extremely important for devotees of Lord Muruga. The ‘sashti’ or sixth day of the full moon and the sixth day of the new moon are favorite days for Lord Muruga. Some devotees of Lord Muruga observe partial or full fast on each Sashti day and throughout the Kanda Sashti period. The Sashti falling in on the waxing moon period in the Hindu lunar month of Aippasi or Aswin (October-November) is the day on which Lord Muruga is believed to have killed a super-demon called Sura Padman. This is commemorated in the six-day festival of Kanda Sashti as a symbol of perpetual destruction of evil by God. Each of these six days is, by custom, set apart to recite the glory of Lord Muruga from one of the six scriptures in His praise, namely: Tirumurukarruppadai, Kandar Kalivenba, Kandar Anubhuti, Kandar Alankaram, Kanda Sashti Kavacam and Kanda Puranam. Giant-sized images of four demons (asuras) are moved on uplifted chariots, and these are symbolically encountered and destroyed by the Lord.
The Surasamharam Battle :
The high point of Kanda Sashti, is on the sixth day when the Surasamharam takes place. At many Murugan temples this is ritually re-enacted, but nowhere is it re-enacted on such a scale as at Tiruchendur, where the actual battle is believed to have taken place in pre-history.
In brief, the Surasamharam goes like this , a huge palanquin bearing the titan Gajamukha ('Elephant-faced') is carried by men of a local caste group down to the beach where he stands and dares Senthil Andavar to come out of His temple and fight. Some say that Gajamukha is "Surapadma's brother". But the most ancient Tamil traditions mention only the terrible and cruel Soor ('Terror' personified) who is described as a shape-shifter who can take any form and who cannot be killed. More recent traditions speak of Surapadma and his three 'brothers' who successively confront Murugan and are annihilated each in turn.
Not one to turn away from a fight, Lord Murugan emerges from His Kanda Sashti Mandapam borne on a smaller palanquin by Brahmin men devotees. In the form of a modest-sized brass likeness of the Lord with His Vel or spear held aloft ready to hurl, He is garlanded with lemons, an essential ingredient of South Indian ritual magic. The asura then runs around his divine Adversary borne by his loudly shouting troops, first clockwise, then counter-clockwise while Lord Senthil Andavar and His troops just remain at ease. Then the asura stands back and suddenly charges face-on but halts and draws back. He does this three times but the Lord is undisturbed. So the asura and his troops haul out and fire a missile (a real firecracker-sized rocket guided by a string between two poles held aloft). The missile heads straight towards the Lord, but something happens and the missile stops and turns back towards its senders, causing a roar of delight from the Lord's supporters. The Lord and His troops then charge at the asura with lances drawn and with full battle cry. One young Iyer among them, who represents Lord Murugan, thrusts his spear at the asura and beheads it. The crowd instantly roars its approval.
Then the asura army withdraws some fifty meters and regroups. A new head (of Simha-mukha, the 'Lion-faced' titan) is mounted on the asura's body and again the same things happen. Four times the procedure is repeated; the fourth time Surapadma himself (or his head rather) is represented by a live cock. When Surapadma is vanquished, symbolically he split by the Lord's Vel into the cock and the peacock, the Lord's banner-symbol and vehicle-totem respectively. On the following day (the seventh) there is the Tiru Kalyanam or marriage of Senthil Andavar to Lord Indra's daughter Devasena or Teyvanai Amman as She is best known - the crowning acknowledgement of the Lord's triumph. This occurs at Tirupparankundram , but the same marriage is also celebrated in grand style at Tiruchendur. For this festival only, the deity of Chinnakumarar comes down from the hill temple, kills the demons (asuras) at the corners of the four direction while on a festive procession around the hill, and triumphantly returns to His abode in the hill. All the other events of the festival take place in the hill temple. This divine marriage is celebrated both in the hill temple and in the Periyanayaki Temple.
source : http://murugan.org/temples/tiruchendur.htm

Thiruchendur Murugan Temple

One of the six places of worship dedicated to Lord Muruga, the shore temple of Arulmigu Subramanya Swami at Tiruchendur has a unique significance as the culmination of the concept of Muruga. With its lofty tower of about 140 feet. References are available in such texts as Purananooru, Silappadikaram, Tirumurugatrupadai, Adi Sankarar, Sri SubramanyaBhjangam, Kanda Puranam, Tiruppukazh, Tiruchendur Pillai Tamil , As one of the foremost spiritual centres, the temple has been an attraction for Hindus for ages. This was the only temple of Lord Muruga located on the seashore. His shrines are always situated amid mountains and forests, for these regions are considered dear to Lord Murugan. Indeed, it is here that Murugan and his deva-sena or army of celestials confront and vanquish the titan Surapadma and his demonic horde. This momentous struggle is annually re-created at Tiruchendur on the sixth day of Skanda Sashti, the 'Six (days) of Skanda'.

At this spot, Lord Muruga was said to have emcamped before and after vanquishing the asuras and worshipped Siva at the shrine Mayan had built for Him. The Kanda Madana Parvata, the red sandstone rock of this coast received its foundations. A lofty gopuram also rose beside it. A part of the cliff was bored into to form the holy sanctum of Subramaniam. Maharaja Marthandavarma of Travancore Samasthanam endowed the very first Udaya Marthanda Kattalai of each morning and others followed in the nine aradhanas of the day.
As time rolled on, the effect of the sea and its salt-laden air begain to tell upon the inferior sandstones used in the original construction. A noble sannyasin, Mauna Swami, immediately took up the renovation and was followed by two others, Kasi Swami and Arumuga Swami. The work continued during the course of 72 years. The temple and its gopurams of nine floors are a landmark visible at sea for twelve miles.

Temple Structure :

Lord Muruga's association with Tiruchendur is significant, Tiruchendur, a sacred and prosperous town of victory, was also known as Tiruchen-Chendiloor in the Tamil classics. The Vasanta Mandapam is a recent noble edifice standing on 120 columns and with a central porch. The Ananda Vilas Mandapam stands on a raised sandy promontory majestically overlooking the sea. It is a mandapam of 16 pillars worked in black granite. The Shanmukha Vilasam, a magnificent mandapam of intricate stone plinths and columns, is the frontal adjunct to the main temple. It houses an ornate mandapam of four pillars in the centre, and this touches the ceiling through its elaborately carved and majestic pillars and supports the entire Shanmukha Vilasam.

The main entrance of this temple opens into the first temple prahara known as Sivili Mandapam. It is a series of four long corridors running round the inner second prahara flanked on either side by familiar rows of columns of yalis. The Sivili Mandapam produces a fine effect of symmetry and randeur. There is a Vishnu shrine of Lord Venkatesa on the norther prahara. This Vishnu shrine is hollowed out of the rock itself.

The principal sanctum of this great temple is Subramaniam, the Lord of Senthil. The figure is seen in a standing posture. The principal sanctum has all the full complement of mandapas.

There are four lithic inscriptions of the Pandya times collected together and planted in a line. Two of them belong to Pandya Varaguna Maran of about 875 AD, the third of Pandya Mara Varman of about 1282 AD and the fourth of Vikrama Pandya Deva. The inscriptions of Varaguna speak of his grant of 1,400 gold coins to the temple. There is a mention of a shrine to Nakkira Deva, which speaks highly of the literary advancement of the period.
A little removed from the main shrine and on the northern seashore under a cliff of overhanging hardened sandstone there is a picturesque cave carved out of it, which is famous as Valli's Cave. Two images are installed there, one dedicated to Valli and another to Dattatreya. Almost embedded in a rolling high sand dune on the beach lies a remarkable spring known as Skanda Pushparani - the Nazhik Kinaru. It is a natural phenomenon and is said to have sprung up as Lord Shanmukha planted His lance - the Vel - on the spot.
There is a remarkable spring of fresh crystal water in a stone receptacle known as Nazhik Kinaru. It is a foot square and inset with the larger well. Another water source is one of saltish and highly sulphurous smelling and muddy-looking water. This swells up during the day and is pumped out daily so as not to allow it to overflow into the smaller one. A bath in the sea and in this well is considered to be of much spiritual merit.

According to legend, after the final Surasamharam battle on the beach at Tiruchendur, Lord Murugan felt remorse for His role in slaughtering Surapadma's demonic army. He therefore built a shrine nearby to His Father Lord Siva and worshipped Him there. Technically, therefore, the temple is dedicated to Lord Siva. Yet the mulasthanam deity is Lord Senthil Andavar Himself standing in a majestic and relaxed pose facing east towards the sea, alone and without His consorts Valli and Devasena. Devotees by the thousands undertake personal vows including mudikani and angapradakshina . Traditions including all the elaborate daily pujas are strictly maintained.

(will explain in a seperate posting about Kanta Shasti Vratam )

Source : http://www.lordmurugan.com/tiruchendur.htm

Arupadai Veedu

Lord Muruga - called by various favourite names like Karthilkeya, Arumuga, Shanmuga, Guhan, Skanda, Subramanya and Kumara - by his ardent devotees . He is considered to be the son of Lord Shiva - the Hindu God of distruction and the brother of Lord Ganesh - the most famous elephant headed god of India. The Arupadaiveedu (six abodes) are the most important shrines for the devotees of Muruga in Tamilnadu, India.
Lord Muruga's Aaru Padai Veedu:

• Thiruparamkundram : Soora Samharam, Chariot Festival and Laksha archana (worship to Lord Muruga by hundred thousand names)
• Thiruchendur : Swing Festival (Oonjal Sevai - where Lord Muruga swings with his consort in a highly tranquill atmosphere)
• Palani : The Golden Chariot Festival (A very famous occation in which golden image of the Lord goes around the temple in Gold Plated Chariot)
• Swamimalai : The Soora Vahana Festival (Lord Muruga is seated above the Asura Soorapadhman and is taken around the temple
• Thiruthani : Mirror Festival (Kannadi Sevai - where the Lord's Six faces are exposed through a mirror and worshipped)
• Pazhamudhircholai : Bathing Festival (Abhishekam - where the Lord's image is bathed in several holy waters, amidst the veda chanting - Sri Rudhram and Chamakam)

(will post in detail about each and every temple...)

Importance of Ganesh Chaturthi

Mischieves of Lord Krishna

Goddess Saraswathi

Yaa Kundendu tushaara haaradhavalaa,

Yaa shubhravastraavritha
Yaa veenavara dandamanditakara,

Yaa shwetha padmaasana
Yaa brahmaachyutha shankara prabhutibhir

Devaisadaa Vanditha
Saa Maam Paatu Saraswatee

Bhagavatee Nihshesha jaadyaapahaa

Goddess Saraswathi is the consort of Lord Brahma (Lord of Creation) and is the Goddess of wisdom and learning. Saraswati is the one who gives the essence (sara) of our own self (swa). She is considered as the personification of all knowledge - arts, sciences, crafts and other skills. Thus, with the goddesses Saraswati , Lakshmi and Parvati or Durga , she forms the Tridevi who are consorts of the male trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva, respectively. Saraswati's children are the Vedas, which are the oldest sacred texts of Hinduism. Saraswati is also regarded as Vaagdevi, the goddess of sound and speech.

Legend has it that Bhrahma the creator acquired the power to think and create only through the power of Saraswati and that it was Saraswati that enabled Bhrahma to listen to the naadabhrahmam, the primordial sound which is revered as the source of all creation.Saraswati is also referred to as Sharda, the fountainhead of knowledge who leeds seekers from darkness to light and from ignorance to spiritual upliftment.

Iconography :

She has a beautiful and elegant presence, is pure white in colour, clad in a white saree, seated on a white lotus, She has four hands representing four aspects of human personality in learning , mind, intellect, alertness and ego.

She is shown to hold the following in her hands:

• A book, which is the sacred Vedas, representing the universal, divine, eternal, and true knowledge as well as her perfection of the sciences and the scriptures.
• A mala (rosary) of crystals, representing the power of meditation and spirituality.
• The veena, a musical instrument that represents her perfection of all arts and science.

Saraswati is also associated with anuraaga, the love for and rhythm of music which represents all emotions and feelings expressed in speech or music. It is believed that children born with that name will prove to be very lucky in their studies. A 'white swan' (Sanskrit: hamsa) is often located next to her feet. The swan, symbolizes discrimination between the good and the bad or the eternal and the evanescent. Due to her association with the swan, Goddess Saraswati is also referred to as Hamsa-vahini, which means "she who has a swan as her vehicle". She is usually depicted near a flowing river, which may be related to her early history as a river goddess. The swan and her association with the lotus flower also point to her ancient origin. Sometimes a peacock is shown beside the goddess. The peacock represents arrogance and pride over its beauty, and by having a peacock as her mount, the Goddess teaches Hindus not to be concerned with external appearance and to be wise regarding the eternal truth.

Saraswati as a river :

The Rigvedic hymns dedicated to Saraswati mention her as a mighty river with creative, purifying, and nourishing properties. The best theory regarding the Vedic Saraswati River states that it was formed by the present headwaters of the Yamuna River. The now extinct river Saraswati, once an integral part of Vedic culture is associated with Saraswati the Goddess of knowledge. Legend has it that when Shiva opened his third eye, the flame that emanated threatened to destroy everything in it's path. Only Saraswati the source of wisdom was unperturbed by the potence of the flame, owing to her firm understanding that the flame would only destroy what was impure. She then took the form of a river, carried the flame deep into the sea and transformed it into a fire breathing mare and declared that the creature of destruction would stay underground as long as wisdom was sought after and that it would surface if this search was totally abandoned.

Temples :

Like Brahma, she is not worshipped much in temples. However, every year Saraswathi Pooja (Navarathiri ) is celebrated by people all over India, be it students, workers, craftsmen, businessmen offering their prayers for a successful and fruitful year. Shrines dedicated to Saraswati are commonly seen in many Saivite temples all over south India, located to the right of Parvati's shrine. However, Saraswathi does have a temple in Koothanur in Tanjavur district and there are shrines to Bhrahma and Saraswati at Uttamar Koyil near Tiruchirappalli in Tamilnadu. Major temples for the goddess are located in Basara Town (Andhra Pradesh), Shringeri, Pushkar, Panachikkad, Bhadrakali, Gairidhara and Handigaon in Nepal also have Saraswati temples .

Festivals :

Saraswati Puja is performed on the 5th day of Magha month of Hindu Calendar (also known as Basant Panchami). In several parts of India, generally states to the south, Saraswati Poojas are conducted during Navaratri – a nine day long festival celebrating the power of the feminine aspect of divinity or shakti. On the ninth day of Navaratri (Mahanavami), books and all musical instruments are ceremoniously kept near the gods early at dawn and worshipped with special prayers. No studies or any performance of arts is carried out, as it is considered that the Goddess herself is blessing the books and the instruments. The festival is concluded on the tenth day of Navaratri (Vijaya Dashami) and the goddess is worshipped again before the books and the musical instruments are removed. It is customary to study on this day, which is called Vidyarambham (literally, Commencement of Knowledge). All students are traditionally required to study a part of all that they have learn till that day, and also to start the study of something new on the same day. Gurus (preceptors) are worshipped on this day as embodiments of Saraswati.

Saraswati - Bestower of Knowledge :

Musical instruments, books, speech, knowledge, intellect are regarded as symbols of Saraswati. Saraswati is believed to be the provider of knowledge that dispels ignorance and unhappiness. Saraswati is worshipped by seekers of knowledge especially students, scholars and scientists.

Sources : Wikipedia , http://www.iloveindia.com/spirituality/goddesses/saraswati/index.html

108 Names of Lord Ganesha & The Meanings

1. Akhurath : One who has mouse as his charioteer 2. Alampata : Ever eternal lord 3. Amit : Incomparable lord 4. Anantachidrupamayam: Infinite and consciousness personified 5. Avaneesh : Lord of the whole world 6. Avighna : Remover of obstacles 7. Balaganapati : Beloved and lovable child 8. Bhalchandra : Moon-crested lord 9. Bheema : Huge and Gigantic 10. Bhupati : Lord of the gods 11. Bhuvanpati : God of the gods 12. Buddhinath : God of wisdom 13. Budhipriya : Knowledge bestower 14. Bhudhividhata : God of knowledge 15. Chaturbhuj : One who has four arms 16. Devadeva : Lord of all lords 17. Devantakanashakarin : Destroyer of evils and asuras 18. Devarata : One who accepts all gods 19. Devendrashika : Protector of all gods 20. Dharmik : One who gives charity 21. Dhoomravarna : Smoke-Hued lord 22. Durja : Invincible lord 23. Dvaimatura : One who has two mothers 24. Ekaakshara : He of the single syllable 25. Ekadanta : Single-Tusked lord 26. Ekadrishta : Single-Tusked lord 27. Eshanputra : Lord Shiva’s son 28. Gadadhara : One who has the mace as his weapon 29. Gajakarna : One who has eyes like an elephant 30. Gajanana : Elephant-Faced lord 31. Gajananeti : Elephant-Faced lord 32. Gajavakra : Trunk of the elephant 33. Gajavaktra : One who has mouth like an elephant 34. Ganadhakshya : Lord of all Ganas (Gods) 35. Ganadhyakshina: Leader of all the celestial bodies 36. Ganapati : Lord of all Ganas (Gods) 37. Gaurisuta : The son of Gauri (Parvati) 38. Gunina : One who is the master of all virtues 39. Haridra : One who is golden colored 40. Heramba : Mother’s Beloved son 41. Kapila : Yellowish-Brown coloured 42. Kaveesha : Master of poets 43. Krti : Lord of music 44. Kripalu : Merciful lord 45. Krishapingaksha : Yellowish-Brown eyed 46. Kshamakaram : The place of forgiveness 47. Kshipra : One who is easy to appease 48. Lambakarna : Large-Eared lords 49. Lambodara : The huge bellied lord 50. Mahabala : Enormously strong lord 51. Mahaganpati : Omnipotent and supreme lord 52. Maheshwaram : Lord of the universe 53. Mangalamurti : All auspicious lord 54. Manomay : Winner of hearts

55. Mrityunjaya : Conqueror of death 56. Mundakarama : Abode of happiness 57. Muktidaya : Bestower of eternal bliss 58. Mushikvahana : One who has mouse as charioteer 59. Nadapratithishta : One who appreciates and loves music 60. Namasthetu : Vanquisher of all evils and vices and sins 61. Nandana : Lord Shiva’s son 62. Nideeshwaram : Giver of wealth and treasures 63. Omkara : One who has the form of OM 64. Pitambara : One who has yellow-colored body 65. Pramoda : Lord of all abodes 66. Prathameshwara : First among all 67. Purush : The omnipotent personality 68. Rakta : One who has red-colored body 69. Rudrapriya : Beloved of lord Shiva 70. Sarvadevatman : Acceptor of all celestial offerings 71. Sarvasiddanta : Bestower of skills and wisdom 72. Sarvatman : Protector of the universe 73. Shambhavi : The son of Parvati 74. Shashivarnam : One who has a moon like complexion 75. Shoorpakarna : Large-eared Lord 76. Shuban : All auspicious lord 77. Shubhagunakanan : One who is the master of all virtues 78. Shweta : One who is as pure as the white colour 79. Siddhidhata : Bestower of success and accomplishments 80. Siddhipriya : Bestower of wishes and boons 81. Siddhivinayak : Bestower of success 82. Skandapurvaja : Elder brother of Skanda (Lord Kartik) 83. Sumukha : Auspicious face 84. Sureshwaram : Lord of all lords 85. Swaroop : Lover of beauty 86. Tarun : Ageless 87. Uddanda : Nemesis of evils and vices 88. Umaputra : The son of goddess Uma (Parvati) 89. Vakratunda : Curved trunk lord 90. Varaganapati : Bestower of boons 91. Varaprada : Granter of wishes and boons 92. Varadavinayaka : Bestower of Success 93. Veeraganapati : Heroic lord 94. Vidyavaridhi : God of wisdom 95. Vighnahara : Remover of obstacles 96. Vignaharta : Demolisher of obstacles 97. Vighnaraja : Lord of all hindrances 98. Vighnarajendra : Lord of all obstacles 99. Vighnavinashanaya : Destroyer of all obstacles and impediments 100. Vigneshwara : Lord of all obstacles 101. Vikat : Huge and gigantic 102. Vinayaka : Lord of all 103. Vishwamukha : Master of the universe 104. Vishwaraja : King of the world 105. Yagnakaya : Acceptor of all sacred and sacrificial offerings 106. Yashaskaram : Bestower of fame and fortune 107. Yashvasin : Beloved and ever popular lord 108. Yogadhipa : The lord of meditation

Lord Krishna Overpowers Kalia , The Sanke

Puthandu (Tamil New Year )

Puthandu, or better known as Tamil New Year, is the celebration of the first day of the Tamil new year traditionally in mid-April (Usally is celebrated on April 13 or 14 every year ) , by people of Tamil origin in Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry in India. This year Tamil New Year falls on April 14th . People greet each other on this day by saying இனிய தமிழ் புத்தாண்டு நல்வாழ்த்துக்கள் (Iniya Tamizh Puthaandu Nalvazhthukkal). This is in keeping with the Hindu solar calendar. The Tamil Calendar, which has 12 months from Chitthirai (April - May) to Panguni (March - April), has a 60-year cycle. This auspicious day is also popular as Varusha Pirappu. As per the Hindu mthyical legends, Lord Brahma started creation of the universe.
April 14th also happens to be the Bengali New Year Day, Naba Barsha, which begins with the ‘Prabhat Pheries’ (an early morning procession) with songs and dances welcoming the New Year. In Kerala ‘Vishu’ is celebrated by Malayalees commemorating the beginning of the astronomical New Year in the Malayalam Calendar. Sri Lankan Tamils observe the traditional new year in April with the first financial transaction known as the 'Kai-vishesham' where elders gift money to the unmarried young, particularly children as a token of good luck. The event is also observed with the 'arpudu' or the first ploughing of the ground to prepare for the new agricultural cycle. The 'punya-kaalam' or auspicious time when the sun reportedly shifts from Meena raasi to Mesha raasi is considered ideal to commence new activities on a favorable note. Sri Lankan Tamils begin the year with a herbal bath with 'maruthu-neer' with ingredients for good health. The game of 'por-thenkai' or coconut wars between youth is played in villages through the Tamil north of the island while cart races are also held .
There are several references in early Tamil literature to the April new year. Nakkirar, the author of the Nedunalvaadai mentions in the 3rd century that the Sun travels from Mesha/Chitterai through 11 successive Raasis or signs of the Zodiac. Koodaloor Kizhaar in the 3rd century refers to Mesha Raasi/Chitterai as the commencement of the year in the Puranaanooru. The 8th century Silappadikaaram describes the 12 Raasis/zodiac signs starting with Mesha/Chitterai.
Celebrations :
In Tamil Nadu, people follow some strict rituals in a belief to ensure well-being and prosperity of their families. The most popular tradition is to view Kanni at dawn with a hope to bring good luck. People start the day by seeing some auspicious items like gold and silver jewelery, betel leaves, nuts, fruits and vegetables, flowers, raw rice and coconuts. Following the rituals, Tamils take bath, wear new clothes and visit the temples to pray for success in life. After this, Panchangam (almanac) is read. Many people get their houses painted to mark the renewal of life. Ladies adorn their houses with fresh mango leaves and Kolam . Sometimes, a decorated lamp kuthuvillakku is placed in the center of colorful Kolam to bring light to the house. People in the advent of merrymaking and feasting exchange gifts with each other. Children are highly excited at the time of Puthandu as they receive small gifts or cash from their parents and relatives.
Highlights of the Festival :
The main focus is on the food eaten on the day. 'Maanga Pachadi' is the pulse of the festival. It is a dish made of raw mangoes, jaggery, neem flowers which tastes sweet, salt, sour and bitter. This entails different colors of life. It depicts that life has to face everything from success to defeat.
A grand Car Festival is held at Tiruvadamarudur near Kumbakonam every year on April 14th. Also during the month of Chitthirai the marriage of Goddess Meenakshi to Lord Sundareswarar is celebrated as ‘Chitthirai festival’.
Sources : http://www.newyearfestival.com/tamil-new-year.html

Vishu

Vishu Festival heralds the beginning of Malayalese New Year and is celebrated in a big way in the state of Kerala and the adjoining areas of Tamil Nadu. Vishu falls on the first day in the Malayalam month of Medam. As per the Gregorian Calendar Vishu falls on the 14 April, the same day when Punjab celebrates Baisakhi, Tamil Nadu celebrates Puthandu, Assam celebrates Ronagali Bihu and Bengal celebrates Naba Barsha. Auspicious day of Vishu marks the Sun's transit to the zodiac Mesha Raasi as per Indian astrological calculations. Although Vishu (first of Medam) is the astronomical new year day of Kerala, the official Malayalam new year falls on the first month of Chingam (August - September).
Vishu Traditions and Customs :
Traditional people of Kerala celebrated Vishu with lot of joy and mirth. One very interesting custom of Vishu is Vishukani or Kani Kanal (first sight). Under this tradition there is a prescribed list of items that people see first thing on a Vishu morning. The custom stems from the strong belief of the people of Kerala that good things seen on the New Year day brings good luck for the entire year. Ladies of the house make preparation for Vishukani on a previous night. They would keep prescribed items including a cadjan leaf book, gold ornaments, fresh white cloth, a measure of rice or paddy, flowers of the Konna tree (Cussia fistula), halved jack fruits, halved coconuts and yellow cucumber in a big pot (Uruli). Behind this pot is kept the bell metal mirror and a garlanded deity of Lord Krishna. Two standing oil lamps are also placed before the deity. Master of the house is the first person to take a look at auspicious things. Children are brought blind folded from their rooms to watch Vishukani. Many people in Kerala prefer to perform Vishukani in temples. Vishukani is offered to Gods and is later distributed amongst poor and needy.
Vishu Kaineetam :
Children wait eagerly for this ritual. The elders of the family starting with the grand father or father give away Kaineetam to the younger ones. The Kaineetam consists of coins , rice and the gold from the Uruli. The gold and the rice are returned to the Uruli and touch the eyes with flower. Earlier days, it was a custom to give Kaineetam to all the people associated with the house such as servants, field workers and land-tenants. The principle is the symbolic sharing of the prosperity and wishing happiness for all.
Vishu Celebrations :
To celebrate the auspicious festival of Pooram Vishu people of Kerala wear kodi vastram (new clothes). People sing, dance and make merry. Patassu (firecrackers) are also burst to mark the New Year day. Another attractive feature of the festival is the grand sadya (feast) prepared by the ladies of the house. Special dishes are prepared using jackfruits, mangoes, pumpkins and gourd besides other seasonal vegetables and fruits. Characteristic feature of a Vishu meal is that the food items consist of roughly equal proportions of salty, sweet, sour and bitter items. Popular feast dishes include ‘Veppampoorasam' (a bitter preparation of neem) and ‘Mampazhapachadi' (a sour mango soup).
TO see the Photo of Vishu Kani arrangement , check this link :
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:DSC087981.JPG
Source : Wikipedia