Sculpture.

 https://youtube.com/shorts/RNfOG5339_Y?si=wMvp2yg1iA-o_hvX

Unique sculpture. 

Why Govinda.

Srivilliputtur in Tamil Nadu is a hallowed ground since two Vaishnavite azhwars, Periazhwar and Andal, lived there, experienced God and guided devotees on how to attain His feet. The only female Azhwar, Andal in particular, made God more accessible to everyone, from all walks of life, made Govinda a household name that one could reach out to in good times and bad, and reinforced the concept of bhakti as a community goal, said Damal Perundevi.

 Waking up the neighbourhood with her verses in the month of Margazhi, she begins with the concept of observing vrat (fasting), she says, “nei unnom, pal unnom” (forsaking ghee and milk), giving up rich clothes, all in the quest to attain Govinda’s feet. The structured approach fetches result as they all experience Krishna. Towards the end of the month, she sings, “Koodarai vellum seer Govinda.” She references Krishna’s fete in saving the people by holding aloft the Govardhan hill, brining an egoistic Indra to his knees who then showers Krishna with the waters of the holy Ganga, an occurrence celebrated as Govinda Pattabhishekam. The vrat is over and they are ready to partake together, as a community, of sweet Pongal (akkaravadisal), prepared with milk and copious quantities of ghee that runs down a devotee’s elbow while eating, along with Govinda. They who gave up everything in the beginning of the month are now ready to bedeck themselves, but to their joy when they look in the mirror to adorn the head piece, the arm band, the bracelet, the waist belt and anklets, they see only Govinda reflected in the mirror; they experience His presence. Andal says He is capable of defeating those who are not virtuous and equally captivated by the faith reposed in Him by devotees and invites everyone to come together and find lasting happiness in Govinda namam.

C Rahasyam

 The image of Lord Siva, dancing His eternal cosmic dance, with one foot lifted and a swinging arm, as depicted in the Chidambaram temple, has been one of the most mesmerising visions over centuries, captivating devotees. In fact, in Saivism, the word temple refers to Chidambaram, which is celebrated as the topmost shrine, the Kailash on earth, said P. Swaminathan in a discourse.

When Manikkavachakar saw the idol at Chidambaram, the image came to life before his eyes and he could hear the anklets tinkle as the Lord performed a unique dance movement on the floor. Espying the idol, Tirunavukkarasar said: “If one could but be privileged to see the arched eyebrows…the wet matted locks…and the sweet lifted foot, even human birth is desirable on this vast earth.”

Chidambaram, a seat of true knowledge, has the intriguing reputation of holding a secret. This is derived from the special worship conducted around 7.30 p.m. every day at a small gate adjacent to the Siddha Sabha. However, there is no idol here, but only a garland made of vilva leaves, with the niche itself covered with a curtain. One may ask what is the significance of this. This service is said to lead one from ignorance to true knowledge. This is to reinforce the fact that the Supreme Being, who is everywhere, is also here – in the ‘empty space’. One cannot see God directly, but can only feel Him. The Chidambara Rahasyam (secret) is to make one realise God through one’s inner eye; that knowledge drives out ignorance. One sees the divine form of the Lord (visible to the eyes as Nataraja) and also his formlessness (all-pervading but not visible to the outer eye).

Chidambaram numbers among the five Siva temples dedicated to the five elements, and symbolises the sky. Siva is in the form of empty space, ever ready to bless His devotees.

Importance of spouse

 Lord Narayana takes many avataras, and the purpose of every avatara is to save sadhus. Ramanujacharya, in his Gita Bhashya, defines the word sadhu. He says that only those who want to be always with the Lord can be referred to as sadhus. To these sadhus, Lord Narayana gives Himself. That is what is meant by protecting them and establishing dharma, said M.A. Venkatakrishnan in a discourse. Rama is the embodiment of dharma — RAmO vigrahavAn dharmah. So when He comes to the world for the sake of the sadhus, it is as if dharma itself is being established in the world. This is what is meant by dharma samsthapana, which is spoken of in the Bhagavad Gita. When the Lord took the Rama avatara, He married Sita, and there is a tattva behind this. Of the four ashramas, only in the Brahmacharya ashrama and the sanyasa ashrama a man is without a wife. When he leaves grihastha ashrama and retires for vanaprastha ashrama, he has to take his wife with him. He cannot proceed alone.

In temples, during the flag hoisting ceremony of utsavas, there is a rule about which priest can hoist the flag. An unmarried man, a widower or a man separated from his wife cannot perform the dwajarohana. Sastras forbid a man from performing certain rites without his wife. He cannot do agnihotra without his wife. We see the importance of a wife in the Ramayana. When Lord Rama wants to perform asvamedha yaga, the sages tell Him that since Sita is not with Him, He cannot perform the yaga. They suggest a way out. They tell Him that to make amends for Her absence, He should make a statue of Sita, which is as tall as Sita and has the same build as Sita. Lord Rama is to see the statue as Sita Herself. Rama makes such a statue, and only then He is allowed to perform the asvamedha yaga.

Blessing indeed

 Kannu Parvetai Paleya Seervaram: A Divine Tradition of Blessings

The Tamil expression “Kannu Parvetai Paleya Seervaram” is a deeply poetic and spiritual phrase that encapsulates the essence of receiving divine blessings. It speaks of the sacredness of the "glance" or darshan (Kannu Parvetai) of the divine, which brings forth timeless blessings or boons (Paleya Seervaram). This concept is not just rooted in ritualistic practices but is also steeped in the rich spiritual traditions of Tamil culture.

The Significance of Kannu Parvetai (Divine Glance)

In Hinduism and Tamil spirituality, the divine glance is considered a powerful medium of grace. The very act of beholding the deity (darshan) is believed to purify the devotee, remove obstacles, and bestow prosperity. This belief originates from the idea that divinity is not limited to words or actions but is transmitted through presence and vision.

Divine Eyes in Iconography:

In many South Indian temples, the eyes of the deity are painted with extraordinary detail. The netra darshanam (viewing the divine eyes) is considered the pinnacle of spiritual connection. It is believed that when the deity "looks" at the devotee, it cleanses the soul of past karma and fills it with divine energy.

Philosophical Perspective:

The glance is a metaphor for the omniscience and omnipresence of the divine. In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna says, "With a mere glance, I set the universe into motion." Similarly, in Tamil devotional poetry, saints like Appar and Manickavasagar have written about the transformative power of seeing or being seen by the Lord.

Paleya Seervaram: The Eternal Blessings

The term Paleya Seervaram signifies the ancient and timeless nature of these blessings. Unlike material wealth that fades with time, divine blessings are eternal and passed down through generations. This aspect resonates with Tamil culture's emphasis on tradition, continuity, and preservation of spiritual heritage.

Connection to Heritage:

In Tamil Nadu, temples are not just places of worship but centers of cultural and spiritual legacy. The blessings received during rituals, festivals, and darshans are seen as links to this ancient heritage. For instance, receiving the prasad (sacred offering) or participating in a temple procession is considered a continuation of divine grace that has flowed through the ages.

Examples from Mythology:

Thiruvilaiyadal of Lord Shiva: In Madurai, the darshan of Lord Sundareswarar (Shiva) is believed to bring blessings that have been bestowed on devotees for millennia, as recounted in the sacred text Thiruvilaiyadal Puranam.

Lord Vishnu’s Vision at Srirangam: The darshan of Lord Ranganatha is considered an ancient boon that devotees have cherished for generations. The very sight of the reclining Lord is said to liberate one from the cycle of birth and death.

A Living Tradition

Even today, the phrase Kannu Parvetai Paleya Seervaram finds relevance in daily spiritual practices. For example:

1. Temple Visits:

Devotees often say, “We must have the darshan of the deity to receive Paleya Seervaram,” recognizing that the blessings extend beyond the individual to their family and future generations.

2. Festivals and Processions:

During temple festivals like Ther Thiruvizha (Car Festival), devotees eagerly await the moment when the deity's idol is brought out for public darshan. The very sight is considered a renewal of timeless blessings.

3. Blessings from Elders:

In Tamil households, seeking the blessings of elders is akin to receiving a divine glance. This act is also described as Paleya Seervaram, symbolizing the continuity of goodwill and grace within the family.

A Mythological Anecdote

One of the most profound stories illustrating this concept comes from the Ramayana. When Rama and Sita visited Sage Agastya’s ashram during their exile, the sage offered them blessings and advice. While the words of wisdom carried their own significance, it was Sage Agastya’s gaze—filled with divine insight and compassion—that is said to have imparted a timeless boon to Lord Rama and Sita. This act of Kannu Parvetai was described as a transfer of ancient wisdom and grace that would guide them in their trials ahead.

Similarly, in the Mahabharata, the moment Krishna revealed his Vishvarupa (universal form) to Arjuna, it was not merely a vision but a timeless blessing. The darshan was transformative, offering Arjuna the clarity and courage to fulfill his dharma.

In today’s fast-paced world, the concept of Kannu Parvetai Paleya Seervaram reminds us to pause and seek blessings—not just from deities but also from the elders, the land, and traditions that have nurtured us. Whether it is standing before a temple deity, touching the feet of an elder, or even reflecting on the beauty of nature, each moment can be a gateway to receiving timeless blessings.

The phrase Kannu Parvetai Paleya Seervaram beautifully captures the essence of Tamil spirituality—a harmonious blend of devotion, heritage, and eternal grace. It reminds us that the sacred glance of the divine, coupled with the continuity of blessings from the past, can transform our lives in profound and enduring ways. By cherishing these moments of connection, we not only receive grace but also become carriers of this tradition for future gererations.

Oil.

 The metaphor "There is very little oil in the vessel of life and the night is long" reflects the fragility of human existence and the challenges of life’s journey. The “oil in the vessel” symbolizes the limited time, energy, or spiritual resources available to sustain us. The “night” represents the trials, uncertainties, and darkness of life’s struggles, implying that endurance is required to navigate through it.

This metaphor urges mindfulness about how we spend the little "oil" we have, emphasizing the need for careful, meaningful actions and preparation for the eventual challenges we face. It is a reminder to conserve, nurture, and wisely utilize our resources—physical, emotional, and spiritual—while we still can, as the journey is arduous and the path ahead uncertain.

Philosophically, this imagery aligns with spiritual teachings that advocate self-awareness, discipline, and the cultivation of virtues like patience and perseverance to sustain ourselves in the long night of life.

Blue Himkamal

 The Blue Himkamal and Other Flowers of the Himalayas

The Himalayas, the "Abode of Snow," are home to some of the most diverse and spectacular flora in the world. The rugged terrain, pristine environment, and unique climatic conditions provide an ideal habitat for a variety of rare and enchanting flowers. Among these, the Blue Himkamal (also known as Saussurea obvallata or Brahma Kamal) holds a place of great reverence and beauty. Alongside it, several other flowers of the Himalayas showcase nature’s artistry and adaptability.

The Blue Himkamal: A Sacred and Rare Beauty

The Blue Himkamal is an alpine plant found at altitudes of 3,000 to 5,000 meters. It is a rare, seasonal flower that blooms during monsoon months, typically from July to September. Known for its striking blue hues and unique globe-like structure, it symbolizes purity and divinity in Indian culture.

This flower is often associated with Lord Brahma, the creator in Hindu mythology, hence the name "Brahma Kamal." It is believed that offering this flower in temples or during rituals invokes blessings and prosperity. The Himkamal's ability to thrive in such harsh conditions—amid snow-covered peaks and rocky outcrops—is a testament to its resilience and mystical charm.

Other Himalayan Floral Treasures

1. Cobra Lily (Arisaema consanguineum):

The Cobra Lily is a captivating plant with a hooded flower that resembles a cobra ready to strike. Found in the lower Himalayan regions, this plant thrives in moist, shady areas. It is an excellent example of the region's biodiversity and its ecological importance.

2. Himalayan Blue Poppy (Meconopsis):

Often referred to as the "queen of Himalayan flowers," the Blue Poppy dazzles with its vibrant blue petals. Growing in alpine meadows, it is a symbol of perseverance and natural splendor.

3. Edelweiss (Leontopodium himalayanum):

Known for its association with purity and courage, the Himalayan Edelweiss is a star-shaped flower that thrives in rocky, high-altitude regions. Its woolly texture protects it from the cold, and it is often sought after for its medicinal properties.

4. Rhododendrons (Rhododendron arboreum):

Rhododendrons, with their fiery red blossoms, are iconic flowers of the Himalayan forests. These trees create a spectacular landscape during spring and serve as a key source of nectar for bees and other pollinators.

5. Primula (Primula denticulata):

Found in vibrant shades of pink, purple, and white, Primulas carpet the Himalayan valleys in spring. These flowers are not only visually stunning but also ecologically significant as they thrive in challenging terrains.

6. Lotus Corniculatus (Bird's Foot Trefoil):

A cheerful yellow flower commonly found in alpine meadows, it symbolizes hope and positivity. This plant also plays a critical role in nitrogen fixation, enriching the soil.

7. Snow Lotus (Saussurea involucrata):

The Snow Lotus is another rare gem that grows in extremely high altitudes, often above 5,000 meters. Revered for its medicinal properties in traditional Tibetan and Ayurvedic medicine, it is a symbol of endurance and vitality.

These flowers are not just natural wonders; they play a vital role in maintaining the ecosystem of the Himalayas. They support pollinators, prevent soil erosion, and contribute to the biodiversity of the region. Additionally, many of these flowers hold medicinal, cultural, and spiritual significance, making them an integral part of Himalayan life and traditions.

Despite their beauty and importance, Himalayan flowers face numerous threats due to climate change, habitat destruction, and over-harvesting. Rising temperatures are causing the glaciers to recede, affecting the delicate balance of alpine ecosystems. Human activities, including tourism and deforestation, further exacerbate the situation.

The flowers of the Himalayas, including the Blue Himkamal, serve as a reminder of nature’s boundless creativity and resilience. They are treasures that must be preserved for future generations. By raising awareness about their ecological importance and promoting sustainable practices, we can ensure that these floral gems continue to thrive in their pristine Himalayan home.