Holi-the Festival of Colours, is one of the major festivals in India. It signifies the end of winter and welcoming the spring. People smear each other with coloured powder and splash with water. The colours are traditionally made of Neem, Kumkum, Haldi and Bilva and various other medicinal herbs. It is believed that, smearing with coloured powder has medicinal significance. People also believe that the bright colours represent energy, life and joy. It is originally known as “Holika”, an ancient festival of India. This is a festival that is as much a gateway to celebrate the arrival of spring as much as it is a way to celebrate the season of love.
Trees wrapped with cotton sarees
There are many legends given as reason for celebrating Holi. One among many stories is a story of everlasting love between Lord Krishna and Radha. Krishna, being the mischievous child of Yasotha, was a prankster and was also the creator of many legends for himself. He once asked his mother-why is Radha fair and he is dark in complexion. Mother Yasotha replied to him saying-If you are so much jealous of Radha’s colour then go and put dark colours on her and she will also turn dark like you . Lord Krishna went ahead and smeared colours on Radha. Since then each lover usually puts colour on his or her beloved to pay homage to Lord Krishna.
In the state of Tamil Nadu, people worship Lord Kaamathevan for his supreme sacrifice on the occasion of Holi. People know Holi by three different names-Kaman Pandigai, Kamavilas, and Kama Dahanam. People of Tamil Nadu have great faith in Lord Shiva and Lord Kaamathevan. The story is that, Lord Shiva went into deep meditation after the death of his consort-Sati. Due to Lord Shiva’s indifferent attitude, Gods became tensed and worried. And the daughter of the mountains- Goddess Parvathi started to meditate to get Lord Shiva as her husband.
The Gods sought help of Lord Kaamathevan in order to get Lord Shiva back to his original state. Kaamathevan is a God of Love. He was well aware of the repercussions of such act, but Lord Kaamathevan agreed to help. Lord Kaamathevan shot his powerful arrow on Lord Shiva, while he was meditating. Enraged Lord Shiva opened his third eye and burnt Lord Kaamathevan into ashes. However the arrow had the desired effect and Lord Shiva agreed to marry Parvathi.
But Lord Kaamathevan’s wife- Rathi felt very sad, and she told her sad story to Lord Shiva and requested him to revive her husband-Lord Kaamathevan.
Lord Shiva listened to her story and agreed to her request.
In Tamil Nadu songs are sung on Holi day depicting Rathi’s extreme sorrow. People offer sandalwood to Lord Kaamathevan to ease the pain of burning. People also believe that, Lord Kaamathevan was revived on the day of Holi, and celebrate the festival in his name. It’s the celebrated season of love.
This is a colourful festival celebrated with much joy and fervour all over North India. White colour dresses are preferred to be worn on Holi day. Folk songs and dance are also important feature of the festival.
Holi festival will be celebrated on the 22nd of March this year.
A Holi celebration was held at the South Lawns of Taj Samudra Hotel in Colombo on March 4th 2007:
It’s a joyful occasion for people of all ages
The spirit of Holi is colour
The colours recall the secret of life
Vibrant colours are smeared with love and laughter on loved ones
Rich and vibrant colours are used on this day
Holi comes alive with the colours of “Gulal” (cloured powder)
Kids love the festival
High Commissioner of India in Sri Lanka Shri Alok Prasad is welcomed by the Press and Information Officer of High Commsion of India Nagma Malik to the festival
A festival-goer is trying to smear the Sunday Times photograpghr Manoj Ratnayake with colours
Spring is the season for rejuvenation, rebirth and rejoice
People used to prepare holi colours at home earlier by using flowers blossomed on Tesu tree
It’s the most colourful festival of Hindus
The festival is full of feelings and movements
Colours denote passionate pulse of life
Nobody escapes
Expatriate kids enjoying Holi
Sri Lanka’s former cricketer Arjuna Ranatunga at the festival
High Commissioner of India in Sri Lanka Shri Alok Prasad and Deputy High Commissioner of India in Sri Lanka Shri A. Manickam are seen enjoying the festival
Drenched in the ‘Holi’ spirit to the core, they spared none
A very exuberant festival, with dancing, singing, and throwing of paint
Spicy savoury for festival-goers
The riot of colours follows a revelry of colour play
A Bhangra dance programme by a ten-member Bhangra troupe led by Ms. Sukhvir Kaur from Punjab perfoming at Holi festival in Colombo
Water is splashed towards the end
Fast beat of Bhangra kept the floor dancing
Friends greet and smear each other
Performing Bhangra dancer from Punjab
Punjabi drummer performing at the festival
Festival-goers dance along with the Bhangra dancers
Holi is a joyous, fun filled festival
__________________________________________
Email:dushi.pillai@gmail.com
Lord Shiva is the destroyer or transformer. He is viewed as the supreme deity in Hinduism. There are five famous Eashwarams-Sivan temples in Sri Lanka.
They are Thirukoneswaram in Trincomalee, Thiruketheeswaram in Mannar, Naguleswaram in Jaffna, Munneswaram in Chilaw, and in Batticaloa.
The temple in Kokkattichcholai is a “Thaanrhondreeswarar”. It means a Sivalingam ’sprung up by itself’ and a temple was built later by the villagers in the vicinity over the course of time. The Sivalingam which sprung up by itself is called “Suyambulingam” as well. The Hindus believe that the Sivalingam is more than 10,000 years old. Devotees from various parts of the country travel to to the renowned Kokkattichcholai temple, during special holy days. They join devotees of lord Muruguan pilgrimaging to Kathirgamam during the season by foot, taking jungle paths, crossing rivers and mountains.
There is a legend surrounding the temple according to the villagers in Kokkattichcholai. In the time long past, Kokkattichcholai was a forest. Some hunters roaming Kokkattichcholai, saw honey on top of a Kokkatti tree. Being charmingly delighted to reap the honey, they began to cut the tree with axe; but the tree began to bleed. The hunters were terrified and realized the presence of a divine deity in the tree, and they left the place immediately. A woman came to the spot and dressed up the wound carefully. Afterwards a small Sivalingam budded from the wound of the tree.
The risen Sivalingam was discovered by a man who was sitting by the tree in penance.
A view of the “Kopuram”-at the entrance of a temple at noon
The most pinnacle of “Kodithambam”, where flag is hoisted during the annual festival.
“Kodithambam” is decorated with silk and straw
Residents want to live peacefully
“Moolasthaanam” of the temple
Thavil and Nathaswaram are being played during the main pooja
Devotees observe fast and gather at temple to pray before breaking the fast
Panchararththi is offered to the devotees
The chief priest blesses the devotees
These drums are called “Parai”, which are beaten at temples in Batticaloa district
School children visit the temple on special days
Divine vehicles are parked outside the temple. Men carry these vehicles, whcih carry the idols during the festivals
Many devotees travel to Kokkattichcholai from others parts of the country
The wooden chariot is more than 8,000 years old according to the villagers
Mahasivarathri (”great night of Lord Shiva”) is celebrated on March 6th this year; it always falls on the fourteenth day of the lunar fortnight. Mahasivarathri is considered the most important day for the devotees of Lord Shiva, and there are special celebrations at Sivan temples throughout the island.
The festival known as Sivarathri means “the spiritual night of Lord Shiva”-Lord Shiva, who actually has 1,008 names, being the God of Destruction of evil and ignorance. So Sivarathri spiritually symbolizes the regeneration of the human soul through the unity with divine. The festival is celebrated during the Tamil month of Maasi (February) which falls from February 13th to March 13th.
Lord Shiva is one of the most feared and heavily worshiped deities because of his destructive power. And he is the greatest dancer.
It’s said that Lord Shiva, whose vehicle is a bull, lives on Mount Kailash with his wife Goddess Parvathi. Mount Kailash is a peak in the Gangdise mountains which is part of the Himalayas in Xizang (Tibet), China, the source of some of the longest rivers in Asia and considered as a sacred place in four religions-Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Bon faith. Amazingly, there have been no recorded attempts to climb Mount Kailash; it is considered off-limits in deference to Buddhist and Hindu beliefs.
On Mahasivarathri devotees observe a day-long strict fast, throng temples and keep a night-long vigil. There are four main poojas held from dusk till dawn. The first begins at 6pm on the Sivarathri day before Mahasivarathri, the last on the following day, the day of Mahasivarathri. The Lingam or Sivalingam is worshipped throughout the day; the image is washed with milk, honey, curd, rose water, saffron and sandalwood every three hours.
The Lingam, meaning “mark” or “sign” is a symbol for the worship of Lord Shiva. While its origins are debated, the use of the lingam is an ancient tradition in India extends back to the early Indus Valley civilization. It is the most prevalent icon of Shiva, found in virtually all Shiva temples. It is a rounded, elliptical image, somewhat phallic, usually set on a circular base. Lingas are usually of stone (either carved or naturally existing, such as shaped by a swift-flowing river), but may also be of metal, precious gems, crystal, wood, earth or transitory materials such as ice.
There are a number of mythological tales and legends related to Mahasivarathri. The most famous is that Brahma the creator and Vishnu the protector fought regarding each other’s prowess. Lord Shiva appeared before them as a pillar of fire-Amal Agni-and challenged them to find his ‘head’ and ‘feet’. Brahma took the form of swan while Vishnu became a boar in trying to find the beginning and ending points of the fire. But both of them failed. Ketaki Flower-Thazham Poo - gave false evidence that Brahma found Lord Shiva’s head. Lord Shiva became angry and cursed the flower to be the abode of a cobra. The flower realised its fault and apologized. Lord Shiva pardoned the flower and allowed it to be used for worship only on Mahasivarathri day. Lord Shiva abandoned the fire and declared himself the most powerful.
Generally it’s believed that whoever chants the name of Lord Shiva with pure devotion is freed from all sins. It’s also believed that the devotees who fasts and worships Lord Shiva on this day will attain heavenly bliss. In addition, Mahasivarathri is considered especially auspicious for women. Unmarried women pray for an ideal husband like Lord Shiva, while married women pray for the wellbeing of their husbands and sons. Cultural programmes add colour to the day at the temples. Hymns in praise of Lord Shiva are sung throughout the night by devotees with great fervour and devotion.
Devotees travel to Thiruketheeswaram in Mannar-one of the five Eashwaram (Sivan temples) in the island-to observe Mahasivarathri. It’s believed the four famous saints, namely Thirugnanasambanthar, Thirunaavukkarasar, Suntharamoorthy Naayanaar and Appar Swamigal, sang devotional songs there praising Lord Shiva.
Thirukoneswaram in Trincomalee, Naguleswaram in Jaffna, Munneswaram in Chilaw, and Thaanthondreeswaram in Batticaloa are the other four Sivan temples in Sri Lanka.
Following pictures are from ‘Sivarathri’ festivities at Munneswaram:
Decorated Sivalingam in the Moolasthanam
Milk is offered to the another Lingam which is behind the Moolasthanam of Munneswaram Sivan Temple
Dance performance at the Munnesawarm temple on Sivarathri night
Four main poojas are held from dusk to dawn
Idols of Sivan and Amman are carried by men at dawn on the following day of Sivarathri at
Munneswaram
__________________________________________
A slide presentation of ‘Thirukoneswaram’, with ‘Thiruvasagam’ rendered by ‘Isai Gnani Ilaiayaraja’:
Thiruvasagam-”sacred utterance”-is a set of hymns composed by Sage Manikkavasagar, in praise of Lord Shiva.
__________________________________________
Email:dushi.pillai@gmail.com
‘Every Kirtana is a beautiful temple in which the great composer has installed the God of his heart for worship by those who sing and those who hear’- Rajaji.
All musicians and music lovers gathered to pay tribute, and sing and play the Gems of Thyagaraja. Men and women of all age dreesed gorgeously, and sat cross-legged on the ground. Five Keerthanams are known as the “Panchrathna Keethnanam”. The ‘Pancha Rathna Krithis’ are sung during the Aradhana. They are Jagadananda of Natai Ragam, Dudukugala of Gowla Ragam, Sadinchanae of Arabhi Ragam, Kanakana Ruchira of Varali Ragam and Endharo Mahanu Bhavulu of Sri Ragam. The Pancharatna Kritis of Tyagaraja are in praise of his beloved deity, God Rama and are extremely skilful and beautiful musical compositions. They are all set in Adi Thalam and each ragam represents the mood of the song and the meaning of its lyrics. They are actually set in the style of a Ragam Tanam Pallavi (RTP) with the charanas (stanzas) substituting for the kalpana swaras (improvisatory passages) in the pallavi section of the RTP.
Saint Thyagaraja was a prolific artist and highly influential in the development of the South Indian classical music tradition
Carnatic Music Festival to celebrate the genius of Sri Thyagarajah was held at the Indian Cultural Centre in Colombo on February 15th 2008 at dusk. Thyagaraja Aradhana was held for the second time in Sri Lanka.
The 161st annual Sri Thyagaraja Aradhana celebrations were held in Thiruvaiyaru on 27th of January 2008. Musicians from all over the state gathered and, sat before the Saint’s Samadhi on the banks of river Cauvery, sang “Pancharatna Kritis” and paid homage to him.
Saint Thyagaraja was born on May 4th 1767 in Thiruvarur in Thanjavur district. He was born as the third son of Ramabrahmam and Seethamma. His father’s was a story teller. His family moved to Thiruvaiyaru soon after Saint Thyagaraja was born. Saint Thyagaraja got married to Parvaty in 1784, when he was 18 year-old. His wife Parvathy died in 1789, when he was 23 year-old. He married her sister Kamala in 1790, and got a daughter. Saint Thyagaraja named his daughter Seethalakshmi. It is believed that on January 6th 1847 would be the day when he was excepted to become Mukthi. He attained Samadhi on Pushya Bagula Panchami in Thiruvaiyaru.
Saint Thygaraja was an eminent composer in classical music, poet and a philosopher. He was an extraordinary personality born to teach humanity through music and Rama Bhakthi. He saw Rama as a chief, as a saviour of mankind and a s a Lord of whole universe. Saint Thyagaraja praised him, cajoled him, taunted him, served him and cried for him,
He studied Sanskrit and astrology. He was very well versed in his mother tongue Telugu. Saint Thyagaraja has composed several Kritis. He made use of 200 ragas to compose different Kritis.
The Divyanama Sankeerthanas and Utsava Samprathaya Kritis composed by him are melodies. He composed 1,800 Kritis.He has created two operas namely “Prahlada Bhakthi Vijayam”, ” Nowka Chittram” and “SitaRama Vijayam”. He He wrote most of the Kritis in Telugu, and the rest in Sanskrit.
Saint Thyagarja’s music delights and inspires everyone. The Sri Thyagaraja Aradhana is a solemn tribute of all Carnatic artistes to one of the greatest composers ever. It’s a unique festival.
Saint Thyagaraja is considered as the “Music Trinity” of Carnatica music.His compositions are greatly popular due to their simple language, sincere lyrics and very high quality music. He has composed hundreds of devotional songs in praise of the Hindu God Rama
Kids singing “Pancha Rathna Kritis”
Nesan Thiyagarajah is perfoming at the festival
All musicians under one roof to perform at the festival
Section of audience
A percussion instrument called Morsing is played at the festival. It’s also known as “Mourching” or” Morching”.This instrument is mainly used in the Carnatic musc. The Morsing is an Indian version of the Jew’s harp. It’s also used in folk music.
Little daughters enjoyed the festival while their mothers were singing
Kalasoori Arunthathy Sriranganathan is performing along with her students and fellow musicians
It’s an annual festival by the musicians for the music genius Saint Thyagaraja
Veena performers at the festival
Most of the spectators joined in singing the Gems of Thyagaraja
It’s a festival of enchantment for all music lovers
Veena, Violin, Miruthangam and Morsing players performed with the vocal musicians
The spirit of festivity is shared by all
It’s a rare event to witness and be a part of it, where many musicians gather and perfom together
Valentine’s Day, February 14th-Humanity’s day to love, inspire and cherish life. A day to reinforce that everyone “wants the mind of the flower is the deed, that honey in the heart is our creed”
[HumanityAshore Photo stream]
“Who, being loved, is poor? "~Oscar Wilde (1854-1900) Irish Playwright”
Happy Valentine’s Day.
And here are a variety flowers, from many parts of Sri Lanka, speaking the language of love wherever they are, every day:
Purple Lilly in a pond in Waikkal-North Western Province
Temple flowers in water at the entrance of Lake View Hotel in Moratuwa
Multi petal red shoe flower in Stanley road, Jaffna
Pink shoe flower and bud in Uswetakiyawa
Lotus flowers for worshipping at Sri Venkadeswara Maha Vishnu temple in Nedimala-Dehiwala
In Jaffna-Ponnuchi, Flower used in offerings to god, garland making
Flower pond with Neelambari at Sri Ponnambalawaneswarar Devasthanam in Colombo 13
Flower offerings on a full moon day at the Jaya Sri maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura
Pomegranate flower in Puttlam
White lily in Vakarai
This flower is called Sivalingam or Nagalingam in Tamil. It’s believed that the flower looks like a Sivalingam in the middle, while some believe it looks like a Nagalingam (Cobra). It is offered specially for Lord Siva
A variety of shoe flower [Hibiscus rosa-sinensis] in Habarana. This particular shoe flower hangs down from the tree.
Dark Pink single petal shoe flower in Kanagambigaikulam in Kilinochchi
Variety of flowers kept in water at Ranweli Hotel in Waikkal
The 3rd Annual Nahammal Kasipillai Memorial Oration was delivered on January 16th 2008 at Sivananda Nilayam, Saiva Mangaiyar Kazhagam, Wellawatte.
Deshabandu Nahammal Kasipillai, as Principal dedicated over thirty years in building up one of the finest institutions of learning in Sri Lanka today. She passed away on 8th of December 2005.
[Ms. Nahammal Kasipillai Served as Principal of Saiva Mangaiyar Kazhagam 1937 to 1969, National leader Transcendental meditation-1975 to 1995 and she was honoured with Deshabandu award from President of Sri Lanka, in 1993]
The educator is remembered for many of her contributions to learning that span over generations of students, parents and teachers and leaving behind a legacy that is praised of embodying “a purity of purpose, a perseverance of effort, and a passion for service”.
Aaranie Karthikeyan, recalled the lifelong teacher and matriarch’s sound guidance to all those to sought it, in her vote of thanks at the Memorial Oration.
[Portrait of Ms. Nahammal Kasipillai, at Sivananda Nilayam, on Jan 16, 2008]
Full Text of Vote of thanks, delivered by Aaranie Karthikeyan:
Chairperson Justice C.V.Wigneswaran, Keynote speaker Mrs Sivanandini Duraiswamy, The Principal, Staff and students of Siva Mangaiyar Vidyalayam, President of The Past Pupils Association Ms Sarojini Kanendran, committee members, members of the Alumni and past students, Uncle Thilakan, family members, relatives, friends and well wishers of late Miss.Nahammal Kasipilliai.
Good evening,
It is an honour and privilege as a grand niece of Late Ms Kasipillai whom we fondly called Kasi granny/ or Periyamma to propose the vote of thanks today. Before I set I about the task of expressing our sincere thanks to those organising this evening’s memorial lecture, I ask that you indulge me in recounting a few cherished memories I have of her.
I would like to quote a particular verse from the Thirukurral Chapter 45 “Periyaarai Thunai Kodal”.
It translates to “it will be the rarest of rare good fortunes if though can secure to thyself the kinship of a worthy person”.
Accordingly from a tender age I was always conscious of the rare privilege that was bestowed upon me in the form of Periyamma’s close guidance, love and friendship. Her life long commitment to the empowerment of women was apparent to me both in her conversations and the countless persons who would visit her at her Vivekananda road residence for personal advice, and reassurance. A sound listener in her role as counsellor, she provided non-judgmental and sound guidance to all those to sought it. As a mentor to many, she was quick to identify the talents and capacities of all those who came before her, always encouraging of efforts demonstrating discipline, perseverance and hard work.
She would often quote to me Poet Bharathiyar’s words on the role of women in society.
My awe and respect for her life’s work took form in an essay I wrote for my Grade 8 Tamil class on the 15th July 2001 titled ‘Naan Virumbiya Periyaar’. I don’t wish to bore you with the entire contents of the essay, but just an excerpt demonstrating my admiration and appreciation of her personality at that age.
At 13 years of age, these words were a tribute to her virtues of discipline, ethics, and uncompromising stance on perseverance, hard work and honest intention. I am indeed very fortunate to have enjoyed the privilege and benefit of being a member of Ms Kasipillai’s intergenerational family. It has enabled me to appreciate and hopefully embody the maturity, wisdom and experience demonstrated by Miss. Kasipillai with regard to the essence of life.
At this juncture I believe it appropriate to express our sincere thanks on behalf of the Kasipillai family to the following persons, who have enabled us to commemorate Miss. Nahammal Kasipillai, by organising this memorial lecture on her 92nd Birthday anniversary today.
I’d like to thank Justice Wigneswaran for chairing today’s proceedings. Your thought provoking words on the role of women through South Asian history, and the transition from a community based identity to an individual rights based identity, is a topic that dominates much of the contemporary global discourse on human rights regime.
I’d like to thank Ms. Sivanandini Duraiswamy for her keynote speech. Your keynote address on the multiple roles played by Hindu women from ancient times to date, their potential and capacity which had been given a pride of place in Hinduism, conferring a dignity, respect and freedom for women, the reasons that have led to the deterioration of their status and the need for women to become agents of change-aid us to challenge the status quo, empower ourselves and to chalk out new course based on Hindu values. You have very succinctly stated how these obstacles could be overcome by the adoption and practice of Hindu values, UN declarations on women and principles of good governance by individuals, society, state and the international community. These words are a personification of the values and principles Ms Kasipillai stood for. You can be assured that your words were reaffirming to most of us here today, of our inherent capabilities and capacities to combat the challenges of our day-to-day lives.
Thank you Mrs Sarojini Kanendran for your welcoming words and nostalgic memories of Ms Kasipillai’s time as your teacher and principal.
I’d also like to express our sincere gratitude to Saiva Mangaiyar Kazhagam, the Principal and her staff, Mrs.Sivanandini Duraiswamy, and the Past Pupils Association lead by Sarojini Kanendran and her team who were instrumental in undertaking the necessary arrangements to make this event a memorable and successful one.
And last, but not least we appreciate the presence of all those who have participated in today’s memorial lecture, despite their heavy daily schedules, particularly during times of great uncertainty and concern due to the prevailing security situation in the country.
I’d like to conclude with a few words from Swami Vivekandana on servant leadership, which I believe articulate, the essence of Ms Kassipillai’s legacy.
“One must be a servant of servants and must accommodate a thousand minds. There must not be a shade of jealousy or selfishness, then you are a leader”.
Miss. Kassipillai embodied all these and more in her life’s work-a purity of purpose, a perseverance of effort, and a passion for service. She was a shining example for every one of us striving to find real value in life. May her blessings be with us.
Celebrating coming of age-puberty, it’s a joyous occasion for the family.
Puberty means the girl transforms physically and emotionally. When girls attain puberty, the day and the time are marked by her mother. The first bath on that day is given by her ” Thai Mama” or maternal Uncle. Then she is kept in isolation for few days, and fed with nutritional food such as gingerly oil, “Kali” or pasty pudding made out of black gram, and sesame seeds mixed with jaggery. The puberty is celebrated with a feast on the seventh day by the Tamils. During earlier days, the girls were not allowed to see any males during their isolation period. They were kept indoors. The particular girl is given special care during this period.
The ceremony which takes place on the seventh day is called “Samaththiya Sadangu ” or “Ruthu Sadangu” or “Poopunitha Neeraattu Vizha”. It is also known as “coming of age”.
The girl is dressed glamorously with gold jewelleries and have a traditional rituals carried out by the elderly women in the family and village. Most of the Hindu rituals are carried out by the males, but only women carry out the rituals for this particular ceremony. The girl gets her first saree, which is made out of silk. The girl wears the saree for the first time on this day. Eleven different types of “Aararththi’ are perfomed, while she stands. The close relatives are invited for the ceremony, and shower her with gifts. Mostly gold jewelleries are gifted to her on this day. Some remote villages in Jaffna have a little different way of celebrating puberty. Some villagers present her with Green coloured gifts, which are to invite fertility. Special traditional sweets are made and served for the ceremony.
Fifty years ago the puberty ceremonies were not given prominence. The ceremony took place on the platform of marriage before tying the “Thaali”- traditional symbol of a Hindu marriage.
Although traditions and cultures have changed due to modernisation, the ceremonies are still strictly followed in certain parts of the country. Ceremonies and festivities keep our ties closer to our culture and tradition.
It is also said that, it has been a tradition earlier her maternal Uncle’s son is proposed after attaining puberty, and gets married to the girl later. Traditional-minded families may force the girl to leave school, once she reaches puberty, and give her in marriage.
Ahranyakumari Kumaraguruparan’s puberty ceremony was held at Hotel Sapphire, Colombo on December 24th 2007.
She was dressed in mauve colour silk saree; gold jewelleries glittered; hair was plaited and flower garlands tied to it; and she was delighted. Her relatives and friends were invited; they blessed and wished her for prosperity.
Traditionally set “Kumbam” is kept at the entrance to welcome the invitees
“Kolam”-traditional design is drawn in front of “Thiruthongal”
“Thiruthongal” is made of variety of flowers. “Thiruthongal” is a canopy of hanging flower garlands and thatched roof with flowers woven with each other. The girl who attained age will be standing under the ” Thiruthongal” and accept the rituals. It has been a tradition in Jaffna to use “Thiruthongal” for puberty ceremonies and “Manavarai” for weddings.
Gorgeously dressed young girls paraded with “Kuththu Vilakku”
Ahranyakumari Kumaraguruparan wears veil before the rituals are performed
“Kumbam” is given to her to hold. It’s a symbol of God decorated with coconut, mango leaves and flowers, which depict prosperity
“Aararthi” of “Koththu” is performed
“Koththu” is given to her to hold after the “Aararthi”
“Koththu” is a traditional measuring cup. It’s filled with paddy, “Kaambu Saththam”-knife is stuck still and a whole lemon is fixed on the point of the knife. “Koththu” depicts wholesome and prosperity. It is a key aspect of puberty ceremony.
“Aararthi” of “Puttu” is performed
Elderly women perform an “Aararththi” of milk rice
“Aararththi” of “Kali”-pasty pudding made of black gram
“Aararththi” of traditional sweets
Ahranyakumari’s maternal aunts performing an “Aararththi” with coconuts
Rice and curry “Aararththi’ is being performed
An “Aararththi” of a tray of fruits being performed
Sprinkling of flower petals by her maternal and paternal aunts after performing an “Aararththi”
A traditional crispy snack called “Paal Rotty”is crushed into pieces to drive away the evils
Fresh Margosa leaves are fed to get rid of evils
Ahranyakumari’s parents garland her
Ceremony’s finishing“Aararththi”being performed
“Pottu” is placed on her forehead
She is getting the blessings from her maternal uncle and aunt
“Koththu” is being handed over by her maternal uncle to her parents
It was another special day at Sri Baktha Hanuman temple in Ramboda. The day was a full moon day in the month of October; freezing cold early in the morning, free of all the rays of the sun that are fully spreaded only after mid morning.
And there is spiritual looking Veerappa Chandrabose-busy running up and down the hill to bring flowers, silk, and other items for decoration at the temple, since daybreak. He has already begun to dress and decorate a brass statue of Sri Baktha Hanuman. He was willing to talk while working.
Veerappa Chandrabose (25), who hails from Pussallawa, began his career as a garland maker ten years ago. He has been making garlands for the Sri Baktha Hanuman temple ever since its inception in 1999.
Verappa Chandrabose says “Hanuman safeguards whoever believes him. I have total trust on him. I have a lot of problems in my life. But I surrender everything to him to look after”.
He gets flowers from Mathampai and Kurunegala to make garlands. Different coloured wool is also used with flowers to make garlands for special occasions. He is energetic and enthusiastic to be more creative. He gets delighted when the devotees praise him about the stunning styles in garland making. His acknowledgment would be a simple smile.
Apart from making garlands and undertaking decorations of statues at temple. He makes garlands for weddings and age attaining ceremonies. He used to travel to Batticaloa, Trincomalee, Vavuniya and Colombo to decorate temples for festivals. But due to the current situation he does not travel to North and East. And also he owns a small shop at the foot of the mountain, which sells religious items such as idols, holy threads and garlands.
“Senthooram” is being appiled to Sri Baktha Hanuman. “Senthooram” symbolises victory. “Senthooram” is only offered at Hanuman temples
Sri Baktha Hanuman in Ramboda is 18 feet tall
“Kopuram”-the main tower of the temple
Devotees believe Sri Baktha Hanuman is a saviuor
Chief priest of the temple Maheswara Kurukkal places “Senthooram” on the forehead of a devotee
Veerappa Chandrabose dresses up Sri Bhaktha Hanuman
Sri Bhatha Hanuman brass statue is taken on procession on special days
Special poojas are held on full moon days
Flowers are brought from Mathampai and Kurunegala
Flowers stay fresh due to cold climate
Veerappa Chandrabose is looking for a life partner
Sri Baktha Hanuman in “Moolasthaanam”- main shrine of the temple is decorated for the festival
Veerappa Chandrabose decorates Sri Baktha Hanuman with skills that are marked by dexterity and grace
Devotees thronged the temple
Hanuman is considered as the incarnation of Lord Siva
Veerappa Chandrabose is happy about his achievements
Betel leaves and garlands are specially offered to Hanuman
Sri Baktha Hanuman enchants devotees from all ethnicities
Hanuman symbolises devotion and service
Hanuman is one of the most important personalities in the epic-“Ramayanam”
Hanuman’s weapon is “Gada” mace
Veerappa Chandrabose at his shop
Religious items are sold at the foot of the mountain
Hanuman worship is increasingly becoming popular in Sri Lanka
Hanuman is taken on procession outside the temple
Men carried Hanuman on the shoulders
Long hours were spent in the temple
It’s a belief that, Hanuman is easily reachable by chanting the name “Rama”
Flower petals are sprinkled and the Hanuman idol is welcomed at the main entrance of the temple
View of the Sri Baktha Hanuman temple in Ramboda from another mountain
Deepavali- Festival of Lights was celebrated by Hindus around the world on November 8th 2007. People were dressed in new clothes, thronged the temples and visited relatives and friends. Special poojas were performed at the temples.
According to the Legends that, Lord Vishnu defeated the demon King Narakasuran, and killed him on this day. Annually this day is celebrated in late October or early November on the new moon. The day is celebrated with sweets and savouries, fire crackers, greetings and lights. Hindus celebrated Deepavali as the day of triumph over darkness. It symbolizes a victory of good over evil. Just married couples celebrated “Thalai Theepavali” (first Deepavali celebrated together after marriage) with special gifts from their relatives.
Twenty three year-old Karuppaiah Sivanathan was very busy making flower garland at his tiny shop adjoining the Naattukottai Nagaraththaar New Kathiresan temple in Bambalapitty. He hardly had anytime time to talk to his regular customers, except wishing each of them “Happy Deepavali”. He is called “Siva” by his colleagues and customers.
Karuppaiah Sivanathan began to make garlands ten years ago. He learnt the art of making garlands by looking at his neighbours. “I enjoy making garlands for numerous occasions. It gives me eternal satisfaction. I need to work hard daily to earn more money to expand my shop” said Karuppaiah Sivanathan.
He earns Rs.3,000/= as an average daily income. “It’s not enough to take care of my family, and fulfill their needs. I am not yet married, I need much more money when I tie a knot, and start my own family. I tie flowers and make garlands now. And I want to tie a knot to a woman, who is loving and caring” said blushing Karuppaiah Sivanathan
The importance of temple worship has been stressed by the saints
Moolasthanam (main shrine) of Naattukottai Nagaraththaar New Kathiresan temple in Bambalapitty
Festive atmosphere was felt by all
Lamps were lit to symbolize the victory
Karuppaiah Sivanathan is with full of ambitions for his future
Garland making is an art, says Karuppaiah Sivanathan
Competition is very high among the colleagues
He uses a small metal wire to fix lime and green chillies to be hanged on vehicles and business installations to rid of the evil spirits
His customers are impressed by his work
Devotees spent long hours in the temples to participate in special poojas
He wants to get married soon
Flowers are bought in bulf from Chilaw and Matale
As the monsoon has begun in certain parts of the Island, flowers are in huge demand
Fragrance of the flowers is smelt everywhere
Festivals are eagerly anticipated and celebrated with much enthusiasm
“Navarathri” literally translates nine nights. These nine nights are devoted to Goddesses. The first three nights are devoted to Goddess Durga symbolizes power and triumph. The next three nights are devoted to Goddess Lakshmi symbolizes amplitude and wealth, and the last three nights are devoted to Goddess Saraswathy-knowledge and wisdom.
The festival began on October 11th 2007 and ended on October 20th 2007. Hindus decorated their houses and temples for the festival. Cultural events were held during the ” Navarathri”.
Sri Lanka College of Journalism, Sri Lanka Press Institute and Sri Lanka Press Complaints Commission celebrated ” Navarathri” on October 19th 2007 at the premises of the Sri Lanka College of Journalism.
“Kolam” tradidionally drawn design by the students of Sri Lanka Press Institute and Sri Lanka College of Journalism
A female student welcomes and places a “Pottu”-traditional dot on the forehead of Mrs. Kamalini Selvarajan
“Niraikudam” - full pot is placed to welcome the invitees. It’s a symbol of prosperity. “Niraikudam” is gesture of greeting.”Niraikudam”- a pot is filled with water, a coconut is kept on its mouth, five or seven mango leaves are arranged in circular form. The pot is kept on a bed of paddy or rice placed on a banana leaf.
“Thoranam”- tender coconut leaves are plaited together, and mango leaves are attached to the rope
Sri Skanthan Kurukkal from Chunnaakam performing pooja
Sakalakalavallimaalai” being sung by the students
Student of Sri Lanka College of Journalism Dinesh, Director of Sri Lanka College of Journalism Arjuna Ranawana and Journalist of Shakthi TV Aruna Sellathurai attending pooja
The whole building was decorated and in festive atmosphere
