City of Dawn, Auroville, Tamilnadu

 Auroville, near Pondicherry, is a unique experimental township founded in 1968 by The Mother( Mirra Alfassa) based on the vision of her guru Sri Aurobindo. It is a unique international cultural community focused on realizing human unity in diversity and transforming consciousness. The city, designed by Roger Anger a French architect, is organized into four zones (Residential, Cultural, International, and Industrial) with the Matrimandir at the centre. 

During our recent trip to Pondicherry we took a guided tour within the sprawling 4500 acre Auroville. The tour highlighted the diverse aspects, including its residential communities, cultural and educational centers, and industrial units. The township is focused on sustainable practices - having an independent internet station, waste to fertilizer units, solar towers, water tanks using rainwater and borewells, farms, bakery and dairy farm for their daily use and even a brick manufacturing unit used for their constructions.

A residential house 

The Residential Zone is designed for living, rejuvenation, and fostering community life. It features various residential communities with apartments and individual houses. This zone is home to around 4,000 permanent residents from 59 countries as of today. The interesting fact is there's no cash transaction within and each resident is given an aura card loaded with an equal amount to be spent monthly. The buildings utilize locally made bricks and have incorporated solar panels.

Solar kitchen 

Essential services like the Solar Kitchen- a community kitchen which serves lunch, Pour Tous Distribution - a distribution unit which supplies food products and ready to eat meals on pay what you can basis, the Santé Institute - a healthcare center, Mahalakshmi Senior's Home, and the main library are located here for the benifit of the residents.

Healthcare center 

Cultural Zone: includes educational institutions like Future School- high school with IB curriculum, Transition School - primary & middle school, the Youth Center and Sports grounds. This zone also features the well known Kalabhumi music studio which is a music rehearsal space with amphitheatre and has an array of instruments where Aurovillians practice, teach and collaborate.

Products of Auroville

The key buildings in Auroville's International Zone are Bharat Nivas, Savitri Bhavan, and the Unity Pavilion, which are all important centers for cultural exchange, education, and events.  Bharat Nivas houses the Kalakendra Art Exhibition Hall and Sri Aurobindo Auditorium, while Savitri Bhavan - serves as a hub for studying Sri Aurobindo's teachings. The Unity Pavilion is notable for its Peace tables where meditation to inculcate the  importance of peace is conducted around this table on a weekly basis.

The Industrial Zone includes the Auroville Earth Institute - an organisation promoting earth technology for low cost, low energy buildings. The Center for Scientific Research (CSR)- an international voluntary organisation working towards renewable energy and a number of small-scale manufacturing units such as Shraddhanjali, which manufactures artistic utility items, and Colours of Nature – a natural fabric dyeing unit. 

Spirulina production unit

Our tour guide halted at the spirulina production unit where the volunteers served a refreshing drink of its paste and highlighted the importance of this superfood. 

The drink served 

The one-hour tour in the minivan was brief to absorb the expanse of this self sustaining land but the insight into Mother's futuristic vision left us awe-inspiring.

Senior's home

Distribution unit

Note - Auroville township has received endorsements from UNESCO through resolutions passed in 1966, 1968, 1970, and 1983. Since 1980, the Ministry of Education oversees the township, which is governed by the Auroville Foundation Act of 1988 passed by the Indian Parliament. This act formalized the foundation's structure and aims to facilitate Auroville's development in accordance with its founding charter. 

Bird Watching From My Balcony

 As songs of the birds, rise above the quiet and empty lanes of my community every morning, very few stop from their monotonous routine to discover the joy of birding. Bird watching is a pleasure for those, looking to connect with nature. 

We usually don't notice the birds but they have always been around us even in urban settings. When given the drop in noise level, the chirping of the birds are definitely heard more. Birding is a fun hobby and one of the best ways to experience wildlife in our own surroundings. It is a hobby that does not require any prior skills sets. All one has to do is look. 

I was astounded when I realized that there are more than 25 species of birds just around my home that can be seen from my balcony. What initially began as a leisure activity during my visit to the United States, has now evolved into a dedicated endeavor to document various species regularly on my Instagram page sumats_clicks. I use Google lens on my mobile to identify the birds captured with a Canon 55_250mm lens attached to a DSLR 600D camera. Nowadays, technology has significantly eased up bird watching by aiding us connect to this remarkable bird realm. Numerous studies and anecdotes tell us how bird watching helps in reducing stress and depression while enhancing concentration. It is kind of a meditation only here, it requires you to keep your eyes and ears open and concentrate.

                               

Observing birds from my third-floor balcony offers a serene beginning to my day. Moreover overlooking the trees at an eye level gives me an advantage to sight birds. I frequently encounter Purple-rumped Sunbirds and the Common Mynas and the vocal congregation of Yellow billed Babblers, Rose-ringed Parakeets and Red-vented Bulbuls. Among more boisterous species are the Coucals, Koels and the Drongos though they seldom emerge from their cover in the bushes. On occassion, I have observed a Shikra being chased by crows. But the Flame-backed Woodpeckers, Asian Bee- eaters, Pied Mynas, Spotted Doves and the Oriental Magpies are the ones notably elusive, as they swiftly maneuver between trees.

                               

Given that my balcony overlooks a waterbody, the diversity of the wildlife extends to aquatic species which include Moorhens, Jacanas, White-breasted Waterhens, Pond Herons and White-throated Kingfishers. With the favorable monsoon season this year I also sighted the arrival of Little Grebes, Grey-headed Swamp hens, Egrets and Cormorants. The pleasant weather conditions from November to February attracted the Golden Orioles, Rufous Treepies and the Coppersmith Barbets which has made its residency in the nearby tree. 

Capturing a Spot-billed Duck which landed briefly in the water and a Pied Cuckoo when looking out for the parakeets are moments every balcony birdie would dream for. 

  Nature's abundance surrounding our homes is frequently taken for granted as we constantly seek new and exotic experiences in distant lands. Spending a few minutes to pause from our chores and appreciating the gifts of nature around can provide us with a source of joy and calm on a daily basis.  

Witnessing History - The Launch of Aditya L1, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh

In September of last year, amidst the excitement following the successful launch of Chandrayaan 3, plans were underway for the launch of Aditya L1 into the sun's orbit. Our dear friend, Nigar, was appointed as the Project Director for this mission, filling us with immense pride and joy.

With Nigar Shaji (PD Aditya L1) and
 Veeramuthuvel (PD Chandrayaan 3)

Nigar Shaji, originally from Sengottai,  graduated at the Govt College of Engineering, Tirunelveli, where our paths first crossed. She later pursued her postgraduate studies at Brila Institute of Technology, Mesra. Nigar joined the UR Rao Satellite Centre in Bengaluru as a scientist in 1987. Over the course of her 35-year tenure at ISRO, she held key roles in various missions, including being the associate project director of Resourcesat-2A and the program director for lower orbit and planetary missions. Additionally, she is overseeing India's mission to Venus.

On the morning of September 2, 2023, armed with the passes provided by Nigar, we eagerly made our way to the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The roads leading to the Launch View Gallery were bustling with vehicles from both private individuals and educational institutions, all eager to witness the historic launch of Aditya L1.

Upon arrival, we were greeted by stringent security measures, and as pass holders, we were granted access to the auditorium within the secure confines of the space center. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as attendees watched footage of the preparations at the launchpad and learned about the objectives of the mission. Aditya L1, is India's first solar observatory, aimed to study the dynamics of the Sun continuously from the Lagrange point L1. 

As the countdown began, the crowd shuffled around the terrace to secure the best vantage point. The tension in the air was palpable as the Indian Space Research Organisation prepared to make history with the launch of India's first dedicated solar observation mission.

All eyes squinted upward to the clear sky. The count down started, and we could feel goosebumps... three, two, one, ... and eyes stopped to batter. A few seconds of nothing and then there was a collective gasp. The fiery jetstream cut into the skies, as if in slow motion, ascending higher and higher, leaving a theatrical smoky trail. For once, selfie sticks dangled loose, cameras were held up, but the eyes peeked above the lenses, not to miss an iota moment of this grand feat.

It was a sensory experience: first, the  awe-inspiring visual, and then, as the speed of sound caught up, the roar of the engine, enough to rattle  the building. The crowd stood still looking up even after the rocket had disappeared to a shiny dot. The launch lasted for just two minutes, yet it was the most enthralling experience one could ever have and left a lasting impression on all those present. The achievements of the ISRO and 8 years of hard work of Nigar Shaji and her team ensured the date Sept 02, 2023, be etched with memories that would last a lifetime.

Nigar Shaji has been bestowed with numerous prestigious accolades in the realm of space science, including the ISRO Distinguished Scientist Award and the Dr. Vikram Sarabhai Memorial Award. Recently, she has been recognized by the state government for her significant contributions to space research and at The Times Now Amazing Indian Awards 2023. Nigar Shaji serves as a beacon of inspiration and a role model for aspiring young women in STEM disciplines, thereby setting a commendable example for future generations of women scientists.

Wishing them many more missions to accomplish... 

During the felicitation by TN govt

A trip to a village festival, Echambadi, Tamilnadu

 

Being a city bred and having access to visit sweeping beaches, big temples, fortification and monuments it has always been a pleasure traveling to quaint places away from city life.

When a friend invited us to be part of his village annual Pongal festival, the planning started in full glee. We set off to join the family and other friends to celebrate with the Senguttai villagers. 

Nestled in Dharmapuri district, off Kariambadi - Harur  road is this small village Echambadi. This village is known for its dam and few small but ancient temples. The Echambadi dam is an anicut over the Thenpennai river which stores water released from KRP at Krishnagiri. These are the main sources of water for irrigation in Tamil Nadu. It is surprising to note, that this tiny village holds an integral part in the state's agriculture. 

As we drive into this laid back fertile lands, scenes of cattles grazing lush green grass, a local government school, people chatting under huge banyan trees, and few houses scattered far from each other, each having their own fields and cattle sheds welcome us. Our host's home was a well planned, neat abode with a huge sit out. He had specially decorated it with colorful shamiyanas and laid out coir cots, chairs and tables and made elaborate arrangements to make our stay as comfortable as possible. Their family welcomed us with open arms and warm smiles that made us bond as one amongst them right away. We were treated with gracious hospitality of food and company that time flew as we kept wanting to stay longer.

With the hosts and friends 

.

The close knit villagers gather together on Kannu Pongal (3rd day after Pongal festival) every year at the Munieashwaran temple of this village. The day starts early with the ladies of the family preparing the offerings and visiting the temple. The whole village slowly gathers for the puja and ceremonies like ear piercing, hair torturing, naming are also performed during this time. The Puja is performed for the idols of Jada muni, Sem Muni and Vaal Muni with much devotion which is followed by rituals and practices of this region and a grand feast. 

Just a glimpse into the vibrant festival and rituals that form the cultural fabric of this region makes you spellbound to the unity and integrity they value in family bonding down generations. Little did we realise the impact this trip would have on us to cherish a lifetime and bond with an entire community. 

As we wandered through the picturesque farms, time slows down and nature takes the center stage. The birds, the trees, the setting sun, the soothing breeze become an unforgettable experience and leave an impact on our souls. Every moment leaves you with a deeper connection to the land, its people, their values, their culinary delights and the bountiful harvest practices that the generations have sustained.

Though Agro tourism is one thriving industry in Tamil Nadu where one experiences the activities of farm lands, it lacks this warmth of people and their true culture and traditions carried with devotion through generations - the real essence of rural Tamil Nadu. Though the younger generations have moved to urban areas for education and business it is indeed beautiful to see them awaiting this festival to gather and take part as one big family. Our trip to this region has left an indelible mark on our souls and awe at the supremely rich culture and heritage the people of this region proudly uphold. 

The pics shared are clicked by my friend Aravind and are copyright 

Follow the link below for more of his clicks 

https://www.instagram.com/a_aravindhan?igsh=aDRkMmV4Mm9laTJ6

The Chettiar weddings and traditions

A pre pandemic wedding of a friend took us to the quaint lands of O Siruvayal, on the outskirts of Karaikudi in Chettinad district. The wedding and feast is always a grand one in the Chettiar community. The wedding is mostly performed in their ancestral mansions which is large enough to house three generations. The athangudi tiles laid in these homes are another artifacts unique to this region.

Apart from these the clan and community culture of the Chettiars is worth mentioning which not many are aware.

Chettinad falls within the Sivagangai and Pudukottai districts in the south of Tamilnadu. This is the abode of the Nagarathar (also known as Chettiars) community who are ardent Vishnu worshipers. They built many temples including 9 major clan temples around this region. More than 90 plus settlement are associated with these temples. Every temple has its own set of rules and as religious activities play a big role, the  town planning and the community living has its own unique culture too. One interesting fact is, that people belonging to the same temple are looked upon as siblings; hence marriage is only among people belonging to different temple clans. 

It is also stressed that marrying from other castes are forbidden. Moreover the clans outcasts the family if done so. It's also surprising to note that the younger generation too do not oppose this and whole-heartedly accept and follow the traditions and customs of the Chettiar community.

Will surprise many ... Believe it or not!! ... 

Getting to Chettinad is easy as the main city of Karaikudi is well-connected by good roads and railways. The nearest airport is just around 60km away in neighboring Trichy. 

   

Bhakta Ramadaas, Hyderabad (Untold Tales)

Some places are visited to absorb the architecture and history behind it and some to awe at the magnificence and scenic beauty. But THE GOLCONDA FORT at Hyderabad has a blend of all, vastness, architecture and the rich culture of the Kakatiya dynasty and Qutub Sahib rulers.Built and rebuilt from a mud fort to a granite one, this fort stands tall on a hillock at an altitude of 400 ft and has an expanse of  7 km in circumference with 12 m walls. 

The Golconda Fort

Golconda consists of four distinct forts with a 10 km long outer wall. It has eight gateways, four drawbridges, and numerous royal apartments. halls, temples and mosques, within it. "Fateh Darwaza" (Victory gate) is at the lowermost level studded with giant iron spikes (to prevent elephants from battering them down).  Fateh Darwaza is an engineering marvel of acoustic effect and is the main attraction at Golkonda. A hand clap at a certain point below the dome at the entrance reverberates and can be heard clearly at the 'Bala Hisar' pavilion, the highest point almost a kilometer away. This worked as a warning to the kings at the time of, attack.

The view of Bala Hisar

This majestic structure has beautiful palaces and an ingenious water supply system.The water raised by Persian wheels was stored in overhead tanks at different levels. Water thus collected was effectively distributed to various mahals, apartments, roof gardens and fountains in the citadel through stone aqueducts and a network of earthen pipes by mere law of gravity.  Sadly, these unique architectures of the fort is not being properly maintained and is losing its charm.

The ventilation of the fort is so well designed that cool breeze could reach the interiors of the fort, even during peak summers.

Another attraction found in this fort is the Jail where Ramadaas was imprisoned for 12 years.

Bhakta Ramadaas was born as Gopanna in 1620 in Nelakondapalli, a small village at Khammam district, Andhra Pradesh. Since childhood, he imbibed his family's interest of spirituality and composed several keertanas on Lord Rama. During the reign of Abdul Hasan Tana Shah, (the nawab of the Qutub Shahi Dynasty at Golconda), Ramadaas (Gopanna), was appointed as a Tahsildar of  Palvancha Paragana which included Bhadraachalam, a picturesque temple town on the Godavari river. Ramadaas was extremely devoted to Lord Rama and this inspired him to build a temple at Bhadraachalam. He collected money for the construction from the people, but since it was not sufficient, he borrowed the wealth collected from the tax revenue of the nawab and built The Seetha RamachandraTemple at Bhadraachalam, vowing to return it. 

The Rama Temple at Bhadraachalam

However, the nawab was furious on knowing about the money from the tax collection being used to built the Rama Temple and sentenced Ramadaas to 12 years of imprisonment. Ramadaas composed some of the best keertanas during his days in prison on Lord Rama.

It is said that Lord Rama and Lakshmana in the guise of two youth paid up his dues and got his release papers. The golden coins paid by Rama are known as Ram Tanka coins. They are kept as exhibits within the temple premise. These coins have the Pattabhishekam scene on one side and of Hanuman, on the other. 

The nawab on realizing that it was Lord Rama who had repaid the money, was deeply moved at the devotion of Ramadaas and released him immediately. He gave him the land around Bhadraachalam to continue his dedicated service to Lord Rama. The Nawab also returned the Ram Tanka coins to Ramdaas to be used for the temple. 

Since then, it has been the royal custom of the Hyderabad State (now part of Telangana State) to send gifts to the temple on the occasion of Sree Rama Navami celebrations every year.

 BHADRAACHALAM

The temple town of Bhadraachalam is about 312 km away from Hyderabad situated in the Khamman District. 

At Paranasala

Legend says that the present town is situated in an area which was once a part of The Dandakaranya Forests, the abode of Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshmana during their exile. Paranasala a scenic place on the banks of River Godavari is at a vicinity from the temple, at about 35km away. It is said to be the place where they had built their hut and is also the spot from where Sita was abducted by Ravana. 

The hut where Rama and Sita lived at Paransala

The history of this temple stands for the significance of Ramayana Era, and adds another story - of " Sri Mahavishnu ", who manifested himself as The Avatar of Rama to fulfill his promise to his Bhakta, Bhadra (a mountain king), who had been continuing a penance to obtain the grace of Lord Rama. The name Bhadrachalam is derived from Bhadragiri (Mountain of Bhadra).

The temple at Bhadrachalam has the Archa Murthys of Rama, Sita and Lakshmana and are considered to be Swayambhu (self-manifested ones). Lord Sri Rama is said to have appeared in the dreams of a woman devotee, Pokala Dammakka and informed her about the existence of vigrahas on Bhadragiri hills. To her surprise the next morning she found the "Vigraha's" and made a modest structure and offered puja to the deities. 

Glimpse of River Godavari

Panaromic view of River Godavrai from Paranasala

Baba Harbhajan Singh, The story of a Ghost Soldier (Untold Tales)

About 60 km from Nathula, Sikkim lies a shrine for a deceased soldier of The Indian Army. 
Late Sepoy Harbhajan Singh hailed from a village in Punjab. He was recruited into the Indian Army as a sepoy in 1956. In 1965 he was enrolled into 23 Punjab Regiment and was posted to Nathula the borders of India and China.

 The story goes to the days of post Indo-China war, when this soldier while escorting a crowd of mules to a remote outpost was fatally drowned in a glacier. A manhunt was sent to find him. His body was recovered after three days and was cremated with full military honours. 

The strangeness of this story is that, it was the ghost of this soldier which led the search party to the place where his body was found. It is said that he had appeared in his friend's dream  and asked him to build and maintain a shrine for him at the place where he was cremated.

Hence this shrine at the valley of Kupkup was built. This shrine holds the belongings of Baba Harbhajan Singh. A camp bed is laid out every night for him.  His boots are kept polished with a set of neatly pressed uniform for him everyday. But it is found that the sheets are crumpled by the next morning and the shoes lay dirty by evening.  

This deceased soldier draws a month salary which is sent to his mother in  the village and also avails his annual leave till date. His name is still listed on the payroll of the Indian Army and he has been promoted to Honorary Major over the years. 

Every year on 14th September, a jeep departs with his personal belongings to the nearest railway station, New Jalpaiguri in West Bengal, where it is then sent by train to his village in Punjab escorted by a soldier. As per train rule the reserved seat is never left vacant, but for Baba reservation is done to travel to his home town every year with soldiers to drop and bring him back from his home town during his annual leave. The soldiers in this region believe that he warns them of any mishaps three days in advance.

If one wonders that if it is only the Indian Army who believes in this Strange and Legendary Ghost Sepoy.…?
Its ...a ...NO..!
Even the Chinese Army claim to have seen him patrolling at the borders during the nights and set a chair for him during the Flag Meet between the two Nations.

The Army Believes in Him… Do You..?

Believe It Or Not…!!

The GraveStone at Madh, Mumbai (Untold Tales)

Madh Island Air Force station is perched on a high risen rocky terrain with one side of the compound sharing the sea. The lower part of the wall  facing the sea is made of concrete and stones and the upper part of the wall is grilled with wires. Since the mess is situated at a height of about 12ft above the seashore, the view of the sea through the grill is breathtaking. During the high tides the waves reaches up to the wall and the waters splashes onto the lawns of this beautiful station.

In the lawns of this officers Mess lies a gravestone… and the story behind this gravestone is the history of how this station was constructed.

It is believed that when the station was constructed on this shores, the contractor removed a gravestone and put it away on to the shore as it was within the the compound wall. But every time he built this wall, it would collapse by the next morning. He used all his skills and material, but this wall would never stay till the next day. He was puzzled by the whole incident and decided to withdraw from completing this project. That night he heard a voice in his dreams asking him to put  the gravestone back at its place. He got up very early the next day and moved the stone back to where it had laid and built the wall. The wall has remained strong guarding the waves till date.

No one knows the authenticity of this story but this gravestone lies near the wall of the mess and no one has dared to disturb it.

To add on to this strange story…

During our tenure ('93-'95) we decided to host a theme party “The Pirates Nite”…

The seashore adjacent to the wall

The mess was decorated with full zest for a whole week. The entrance took the shape of a cave and the whole decor had a haunted look with lanterns, lights and even spooky sounds were played. The party was scheduled to begin at 19.30 hrs. It was a beautiful October evening with cool breeze and an excellent weather for a party. But around twilight strong ghostly winds started blowing the shores. All the decorations were blown down, the banners and posters were ripped off from the walls and the whole place looked as if a tornado had struck the place. And the party was announced cancelled at 1900 hrs. Not a single decoration could be retrieved and the winds did not last even an hour.

The grill wall over looking the sea

I’m not sure till date if it was the weather or the spirit living there which had something to do with this episode, but none of us ever thought of another Haunted Theme party again.

Reliving that evening…

Believe It Or Not…!!

The Ghostly Village Of Kuldhara, Rajasthan(Untold Tales)

Kuldhara near Jaisalmer has a very strange story. It is believed that in the early 19th century there were 84 villages around Jaisalmer. The Paliwal Brahmin community which lived in these villages were farmers by occupation and were at the mercy of the king and his diwan (chief minister) for their taxes and peaceful livelihood.

The Ruins Of Kuldhara

About 400 odd years ago 

when the diwan was making his tour through the villages he saw the daughter of Kuldhara chieftain, who was drawing water from the well. She was a damsel of grace and beauty. He lusted over her and approached the chieftain to take her as his wife. The chieftain could not accept this proposal since the diwan was a married man with many vices. He requested the diwan a days time to think it over and answer him. 

The villagers knew that they had to choose between surrendering the girl to the lecherous diwan or continuously be tormented by him. The courageous farmers took a unanimous decision - to abandon their homes and leave the villages overnight. 

The locals say that they left behind a curse that anyone who lives on these lands would perish.Thenceforth these villages are uninhabited; Kuldhara has the most deserted look with heaps of bricks and dusty lanes. The ruined structures and the ghostly silence makes this place aptly called the “Haunted Village”.

The unity in the villagers decision and their unknown mode of the mass migration within the short period has left many puzzled till date. No one knew where they had moved, it is only a belief that since they were of Paliwal community they had moved to a place near Jodhpur called Pali. Some believe that they had migrated till Delhi and Agra.

But All Believe That The Curse Still Haunts There… 

Believe It Or Not..!!

Story of Jesal and Toral ,Anjar (Untold Tales)

Anjar is a beautiful city in the Kutch region of Gujarat, which has some of the most attractive forts and monuments. It is said that many centuries ago this region was an abode for dacoits. One such villainous dacoit was Jesal, who longed to steal the king's pedigree horse named Toral. 

Apparently the queen’s name too was Toral.

One night when Jesal entered the stable 

to steal the mare, sensing the presence of a stranger she broke away from the peg and fled to her master. The guards brought her back  and pegged her rope to the ground near a hay stalk. It so happened, that Jesal was hiding in the hay stalk and his hand was at the place where the peg was hit. Hearing the moans of pain the king came to the stable and on seeing the dacoit asked him what he had wanted. Jesal said he had come to take away Toral.

The king being a Daani (donor) gave away his Toral- his horse and his wife. Toral being a devoted wife did not question about why she was being sent away. Jesal became extremely guilty about his act and reformed from dacoity. Toral too helped him through her preaching on the right path of life and devotional ways to become a saintly person.

Their relationship is spoken with great respect in this region. It is believed that Toral took sati when Jesal died. Both their tombs are at a monument in Anjar and is a tourist spot.

This story was narrated by the locals when we were at Naliya, in ’96-99. They believe that these tombs move and when they come too close a calamity hits this region. They feared that it was moving closer then.
Anjar was the most devastated city during the Bhuj earthquake (Jan 2001). But people say the tombs were undisturbed.


 … Believe It or Not...!! ...