Kerala Heritages

The Alpha Numeric System of Mathematica Indica

2011-11-03T20:49:00.001-07:00

Known as Paral Sankhya, the Alpha Numeric System was developed by Vararuchi. It is also known as Katapayadi, as 1 represents the letters Ka, Ta, Pa and Ya, whose corresponding digit is 1.

Number Letters

1 ka ta pa ya
2 kha tta pha ra
3 hu da bha la
4 gha da ba va
5 nga na ma sha
6 cha tha sha
7 chha dha sa
8 ja dha ha
9 jha ddha
0 nja na ksha

The Value of Kaa ki ku ke and ko was 1

31 was represented by Kala

Kala is ka + la = 31 ( The digits are counted from the right )

and 351 by Kamala
Kamala = ka + ma + la = 351

Ginger Curry, part of spicy Kerala cuisine

2011-09-23T22:39:00.001-07:00

These are two dishes which I like. Inchi Thair, ginger in curd, is a great dish. So is Ginger curry.

Ginger has the ability to digest food fast and is used in all dishes. The Indian cuisine is modelled after Ayurveda, with herbs and spices in almost all dishes.

Ginger has the ability to reduce pain from arthritis, reduces cholesterol and is good in treating hypertension and heart disease. It is also useful in treating Anxiety Neurosis.

My Trip to Bolgatty

2011-08-05T20:42:00.000-07:00

It was Monsoon Tourism, as Aslesha Njattuvela was on. It was raining heavily, cats and dogs in Kerala. I got the rains when I reached Kochi. I had some work at the Passport Office and I finished the work at Noon. Then I went on a tour of the famous Goshree Islands.

I went by boat yesterday to the beautiful Bolgatty Island. A two minutes walk saw me entering the lovely Bolgatty Palace, a resort by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation.

I walked to the Bolgatty Bus Stand and took a bus to Vallarpadam International Container Terminal. Now everything is in place and one ship, OEL Dubai, was unloading. The progress of the ICTT is slow, but steady.

The Bolgatty Palace is beautiful and well situated in the Mulavukad Island. This island is connected to Vallarpadam by a bridge. Vallarpadam is in turn connected to Vypin by a bridge. In fact these bridges are known as Goshree Bridges, as these beateous islands are known as Goshree Islands. In Vypin, one can see the GAIL LNG terminals, which adorn Puthuvypin.

A new bridge, parallel to the existing Vallarpadam bridge, is being built to ease the traffic. I saw a barge jetty at Bolgatty and a barge carrying containers there.

Kochi is a cauldron of world cultures. A versatile land where visitors from abroad, right from Arabs and Phoenicians to the Chinese, Italians, Portugese, Dutch and British have left indelible marks. A great Port, universally known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea. The newly renovated Bolgatty Palace has 4 palace suits, 6 waterfront cottages, 16 well maintained rooms and one can enjoy four star faciliites and a range of leisure options.

Said a honeymooner, Asmita, Calcullat about Bolgatty " We went to Kerala for our honeymoon and Kochi was our first stop. We reached the resort at around 3:30pm after a long flight and were famished. Since we reached post lunch timings none of the restaurants were open, however the room service was very prompt and we had an amazing keralite food. The rooms are large, and built in a princely way. The property is equipped with all the modern facilities and the stay was really comfortable.
We enjoyed the Kerala body message in the resort . The location is also great. Overall its a great place to stay ".

The Bolgatty Palace was built in 1744 by the Dutch and is a short boat ride away from the Ernakulam Mainland. This is one of the oldest Dutch Palaces outside Holland the only Palace Hotel of its kind in Kerala. Now she has a Palace block and a resort block, called Bolgatty Island Resort. Amenities here comprise Swimming Pool, 9 hole Golf Course and is a destination of choice for select Indian corporates for their conference. It is a favourite destination for Indian elite and overseas tourists. The Kochi Airport is just 32 kms away and the rail and bus terminals just 2 km away.

Kochi International Marina is a KTDC venture located on the eastern coast of Bolgatty Island in the Bolgatty Palace Heritage Hotel. It is the first full fledged marina of international standards in Bharat. It provides berthing facilities to 37 yachts and also offers services like electricity, water and fuel for boats. It is close to the international sea route at the South West Coast of peninsular India , with minimum tidal variations and favorable conditions.

The Bolgatty Event Center overlooks the backwaters of Cochin Seaport and is an exotic venue for conducting Conferences, Exhitions, Wedding Receptions, Conventions and theme dinners. Imbued with resplendent greenery, the Arabian Sea and the ICTT at Vallarpadam gives an easy access to the Center.

The Jupiterian Law or Brihaspathi Neethi

2011-06-18T22:38:00.001-07:00

Suppose your son goes against you. Will you throw him out of the house ?

This is where Jupiterian Law or Brihaspathi Neethi or Jesusian Law comes into operation.

Love is giving and forgiving
Self is getting and forgetting !

Conquer by Love ! This is the message handed out to us by the millenial philosophers, millenial poets and millenial prophets !

Love is a Glory from Eternity's spheres
He is still the Godhead that can make all change

Love should never cease to be upon the Earth
Love is the bright link betwixt Earth and Heaven
Love is the far Transcendent's angel here
Love is man's lien on the Absolute !

Sai and Jesus say " Love your enemies, bless them that curse you and bless them that persecute you" !

Let us be arrayed from head to foot with their commandments. ' Conquer everything with Patience and Love" is their eternal message !

Byron said " Take away Love and the whole world becomes a tomb "

Jupiter is the preceptor of the celestials and represents the divine arts and sciences. The scientia intuitiva or intuive sciences are a great preparation for Eternal Liberation. Without the discriminative intellect or prajna imparted by him, no one can hope for Self Actualisation. He represents the Sreyo Marga ( the way of Being and of Bliss ) and Venus represents the Preyo Marga ( the way of Mammon and the flesh ). Both paths are followed by mankind !

Goethe echoed the same when he averred

Now lead me where some heavenly silence glasses
The purer joys around the Poet throng
Where Love and Friendship divinely fashion
The bonds that bless, the wreaths that crown his passion !

Yoga Sastra, Nyaya Sastra, Neethi Sastra, Vedanta Sastra, Jyothis Sastra and all such sciences are ruled by Jupiter or Brihaspathi. Sasanath Thrayathe ithi Sastram - meaning that Redeeming instructions are called Sastras ( like fatherly advice to a son ). Hence Jupiter or Brihaspathi is the greatest benefic, from the perspective of Self Actualisation. He represents Grace Divine, without which no Self Realisatoin is possible.

Love is a manna sent from Heaven, a spark of the Immortal Fire, sent by the Lord to elevate our low desire ! Let Almighty Love triumph on earth !

From the Center where the Heart of God is known
Let Love stream forth into the hearts of men
Let Love triumph on Earth !

Let us Love All, Serve All, Help Ever, Hate None and Hurt Never, thereby fulfilling the Jupiterian Law !

The Venusian Law ( Shukra Neethi )

2011-06-17T21:27:00.001-07:00

The Mosaic Law of Western Thought is known as Shukra Neethi ( Venusian Law ) in Indian Philosophy. The Jesusian Law corresponds to Brihaspathi Neethi, that is rising to a higher plane which returns good for evil !

Even though it is taught that lying is Sin and should be avoided, Shukra Neethi or the Venusian Law states that one can lie for virtue !

Kaliyil prana rakshakkum
Go brahmana hithathinum
Kanya Vitha rakshakkum
Poli Nindithamalledo !

In business, one cannot be trufhful all the time. There is a saying, Truth is ruinous, hence suppressio veriti, suggestio falsi ! In order to make profits, the biz man is given the licence to lie !

Milton said that Mammon was the first teacher of Man

By him first
Men also

The God and Mammon of Western Thought have their equivalents in

Brihaspathi or Jupiter - the Guru of the celestials and representer of the twelve positive sciences of the Vedas

Shukra or Venus - the Guru of the demons and representer of all modern sciences

Milton's " It is better to reign in Hell than serve in Heaven " is Venusian or Shukra Neeti and is widely followed by politicians, mafia chiefs, the priesthood and the captialists !

In Mythology Indian, Venus or Sage Shukra was born to Bhrighu and Usana. He was born on the day of Freya or Venus, Friday. He was born in the constellation of Swathi. Freya is Venus in Norse Mythology and Freya's day became Friday. Shukravar is Friday and is named after Shukra. Shukra was sent to learn the Vedas from Angiras, who was partial to his son, Brihaspathi. However, Shukra learnt the Vedas from Gauthama. He later performed penance to Lord Shiva and obtained the Sanjeevani Mantra, a mantra which can resurrect the dead.

When Jupiter or Brihaspathi became the Guru of the celestials, Shukra competed and became the Guru of the demons ! He exhorted the demons to win the war against the celestials !

When King Bali was tested by Lord Vishnu in the form of the dwarf Vamana, Shukra immediately knew of the deceipt and warned King Bali. He sat in the spout of a vase, which was spotted by Lord Vishnu. Vishnu picked a straw from the ground and directed it on the spout, with the result Shukra became half blind !

Shukra corresponds to Machiavelli. Machiavelli opined that to be feared is better than to be loved. ( "Love is preserved by the link of obligation which men in their baseness break off at every opportunity for their own advantage, whereas fear preserves you with the dread of punishment which never fails " ). Machiavelli opined that men are base and ugly. ( " This has to be asserted in general for men, that they are cowardly, covetous, ungrateful, fickeminded and false and as long as you succeed, they are yours entirely"). Armed prophets had succeeded, whereas the unarmed had failed !

The Jesus and Machiavelli of Western thought, both dialectical opposites, correspond to Brihaspathi and Shukra of Indian thought !

Shukra in Sanskrit means brightness, clearness, purity. These mythological figures are planets and Vedic Symbolism was used by the Rishies. Astrologically, he represents the mundane arts and the mundane sciences, whereas Jupiter or Brihaspati represents the divine sciences and the divine arts.

The Periods of the Sun !

2011-06-15T20:49:00.001-07:00

The Malayalam Agri Calender has it that the Sun transits the 27 constellations of the Ecliptic and these came to be known as the Njattuvelas. The word Njattuvela is derived from Njayar meaning the Sun and Velas meaning the Times. In short Njattuvela means the Times of the Sun, as it passes through the 27 constellations of the Sidereal Zodiac.

Now the Sun is transiting Mrigasira or Makiryam Njattuvela is on. It is raining incessantly in Kerala. Makiryam mathi ariyathe peyyum meaning that rains will be galore during Mrigasira Njattuvela. On June 22nd, the famous Thiruvathira Njattuvela will be on and Kerala will be graced by bursts of rain with sunny interludes.

Monsoon Tourism is on the upswing in the state. People from Arab lands and tropical countries find Kerala a haven. Westerners find it as a gorgeous Paradise, because of the immense greenery which adorn the state.

More rains are expected during the solar transits of Punarvasu and Pushya. These four Njattuvelas are fierce and destructive. Many have lost their homes in the villages, many paddy fields have been inundated, as the Rains of Life and Death simultaneously bring relief from the blistering heat and at the same time wreack havoc on the poor infrastructure of the state.

Jupiter in Pisces, in the House of Fortune, gives India victory !

2011-03-30T17:54:00.001-07:00

Providence ( Jupiter in the House of Fortune ) saved India yet again. Master Batsman Sachin Tendulkar got Man of the Match Award for his blistering 85, but then he had as many as six lives.

Four Paki fielders let him off, Misbah, Y Khan, Afridi and Akmal. He survived two close calls for lbw and stumping. Today was his day.

Let us see the astrological factors.

Yesterday was Dhanishta, his kshema tara or 4th star or Lucky Star. But Dhanishta, which ruled for 57 Nadis ( 23.5 hours ) or right throughout the day was not so good for India or Dhoni. For Dhoni, it was his vipat tara, or adverse star. Hence the nervousness of the Indian spectators and viewers !

For Sehwag, this was his sampat tara or favourable star. Even though he scored only 38, he hit the premier Pak bowler, Umar Gul, for five fours in one over. He hit Gul off his length !

When we analysed, we knew that some factors were adverse and we did remedial measures to overcome those adverse factors. We knew that the Transit positions of Jove and Saturn are benign and so ultimately India will triumph. ( As for me, I fasted in the afternoon, as I badly needed an Indian triumph. I indulged in prayers and meditation right throughout the day and relief came from tension at 1000 PM ).

For Pak, the transits of Jupiter and Saturn are not so benign. Jupiter in the Tenth is Dasame Darika Vadham or adverse for their Ego. Saturn in the 4th is also disconcerting and affected their batting performance in this WC. Not even one Paki batsman had scored a century and they were reckoned formidable because of their excellent bowling !

On 25th, Mars moved over to Pisces, ending some bad luck for India. After then Indian bowling became efficient and fielding improved. Indian fans were afraid that bowlers and fielders might put Sachin & Co down ! But in the QF and SF, Indian bowling and fielding rose to the occasion. The mighty Australians were restricted to 260 in QF and in SF, Pak were bowled out for 231 !

On 30th, yesterday when India won, the Birth Number is 3, represented by Jupiter. Hence it is safe to assume that it was the No 3 in Numerology, or Jupiter in Astrology favourable, which gave India victory. It was also a diplomatic victory, as the Indian and Pak PMs shared lunch together and we hope many bilateral issues will be resolved !

Panic not as Super Moon will not harm Earth !

2011-03-18T23:06:00.000-07:00

Now that Super Moon has already harmed ( the tsunami ), it will not harm
furthur !

Here we give the dates of the Super Moon from 1950 to 2050

November 10, 1954
November 20, 1972
January 8, 1974
February 26, 1975
December 2nd, 1990
January 19, 1992
March 8, 1993
January 10, 2005
December 12, 2008
January 30, 2010
March 19, 2011
November 14, 2016
January 2nd, 2018
January 21st, 2023
November 25, 2034
January 13, 2036

To make one revolution of the earth, the moon takes 27.3 days . Since, as the earth has motion and has moved in the heavens, it takes further two days to catch up with the earth. ( Full moon-new moon lunar cycle takes 29.5 days.

The moon's orbit around the Earth is elliptical, and its orbit is inclined at 5.14 deg to the elliptic (earth's path around the sun) with a substantial eccentricity of 5.49 percent (earth's is 1.67 per cent). The Moon at Super Full Moon will be at 217 K kms and at Apogee it is more than 300 K. A difference of more than 100 K kms. The Moon will be Full when it is near Perigee and will appear brighter. Yesterday Moon was a great sight in the heavens.

Jupiter in Pisces will see to that the Earth is not harmed. The Sun Moon
Opposition takes place in Pisces/Virgo and Jupiter is there, posited in
Pisces. Hence we dont see any devastation happening on the 19th in US and
20th in India !

Anyway the Gayathri mantra should be recited for the welfare of humanity !

Jove will save Earth !

2011-03-18T00:32:00.001-07:00

Should one worry about the Super Moon? NO!

The Super Full Moon occurs when Sun is in Pisces and Moon comes diametrically opposite at ( 180 degree from the Sun's longitude ) Virgo. This is the Full Moon, the Pournami of Indian Astronomy.

Now Jupiter in Pisces is the Redeeming Grace. Jupiter, the indicator of Divine Grace will save this planet from catastrophes.

Some devastation has already taken place, as the Tsunami hit Japan on the 11th. Still Japan is in a mess. Burning nuclear rectors , earthquakes and tsunamis ravaged Japan and Japan looks like a devastated area.

Jupiter is the divine planet, the wisdom planet and He will not allow this planet to be destroyed !

It will not be the end of the world, as some Doomsday theorists make out. Vedic Astrology does not support Doomsday theories. The sum total Energy in the Universe is a constant and cannot be destroyed ! So no end of the world !

One need not bother unnecessarily about this phenomenon. There were Doomsday theories that the world was going to end in 2000 ! ( There was one grand father of Pongo Twistleton in Wodehouse, who gave all his shirts and pants to a passerby, saying that the end of the world was coming at 1030 AM sharp ! ).

The Super Moon phenomenon

2011-03-16T20:37:00.001-07:00

The Sun Moon Opposition is called Pournami in Sanskrit, when the Moon is 180 degrees away from the Sun.

The Sun Moon Conjunction is called Amavasya in Sanskrit, when the Moon is conjunt 0 degrees with the Sun.

The Super Moon is a Full Moon. The Super Moon is a term coined by the astrologer Richard Nolle.

Yesterday, there was an earthquake in Japan, measuring about 6 on the Richter scale. Japan is devastated by explosions in nuclear reactors, earthquakes and tsunamis or harbour waves !

In 2005, Tsunami struck fifteen days before the Super Moon date. This time almost one week before.

One has to be wary of this week.

Super Moon devastates !

2011-03-16T02:27:00.001-07:00

Those who decry Astrology should see the post on Super Moon which we posted on 10th. The Tsunami ( japanese for harbour wave ) struck on 11th, causing widespread destruction.

The Super Moon is a Full Moon. Full Moon means that the Moon is away from the Sun in Opposition and New Moon means the Moon is near the Sun in conjunction.

This phenomenon is known to astro savants and to the Indian mind, Astronomy, Astrology and Mathematics are epistemically correlated.

Some people, due to the influence of Anti Paganism, decry Astrology. This is because during early childhood, they have been taught by the ignorant priesthood that Astrology is hog wash !

The priesthood, sunk in Nescience, believes in the phenomenon of water turning into wine and such irrational miracles. They believe in the Immaculate Conception, which is not physiologically possible ! Another dogma is the Resurrection, which is not scientifically possible.

Super Moon causes Tsunami

2011-03-11T19:39:00.001-08:00

JupMerSun		Ket
Mar	RASI
Ven	RASI	Moo
Rah		Sat

The Lunar Perigee ( when the Moon is closest to earth ) is called Supermoon and is believed to cause earthquakes and natural disasters.

That Moon causes tides is well known and Supermoon may affect tides.

On Mar 19, the Moon will be 221,567 miles from earth, the nearest point in 20 years.

There were Superomoons in 55,74,92 and 2005 and these years were characterised by extreme weather conditions.

Weatherman John Kettley said about the phenomenon on Mar 19th."A moon can't cause a geological event like an earthquake, but it will cause a difference to the tide. If that combines with certain weather conditions, then that could cause a few problems for coastal areas."

Astrologically, Sun will be at 334 degrees and Moon at 143 degrees.

As a remedial measure, the mantra of the Moon Om Saum Somaya Namah can be chanted. Also the Gayatri mantra, as natural calamities affect the psyche of universal humanity !

Om Bhoo Bhuvah Swah
That savithur varenyam
Bhargo Devasya Dheemahi
Dhiyo yo no prachodayath

Some astronomers, who decry Astrology, says there wont be much problem during this phenomenon of Extreme Super Moon.

We are giving the Anti Thesis ( to the Astrological Theory of Lunar Perigee) here, the opinion of Pete Wheeler of the International Centre for Radio Astronomy.

Wheeler stated, "(The Earth will experience) just a lower than usual low tide and a higher than usual high tide around the time of the event, but nothing to get excited about."

"Remember in the past, planetary alignments were going to pull the sun apart. It didn't. Astrologers draw a very long bow most times. Normal king tides are about all I would expect out of this Super Moon prediction," he added.

The Web world is in fact, influenced by the Super Moon phenomenon and this is very much evident in Google trends, a public facility of Google Inc, based on Google Search, that shows how often a particular search-term is entered relative to the total search-volume across various regions of the world, and in various languages.

Within a few day, the Earth could be headed for a big showdown. Some experts also claimed that huge storms, earthquakes, volcanoes and other natural disasters will occur on Saturday, Mar 19. On the very day, the moon will swing around Earth more closely than it has in the past 18 years.

Extreme Super Moon is the term coined by those who are well versed in the Art of the Nine Revolving Heavens ( Astrology ).

Jove in the 9th. Good news coming in !

2011-02-26T02:13:00.001-08:00

FDI in Retail has been advocated by the Economic Survey of 2011. There can be private participation in the social sector.

It is good that the farm sector has clocked in 5.4% growth. Forex reserves at $297 billion. The foodgrain production has gone up to 232 million tonnes.

With the financial planet, Jupiter, in the favourable House of Fortune, this good news has come in.

As food prices rise, there is an imperative need for immense investment in the agri sector. It is due to the good performance of the agri sector that the economy has clocked in 8.6% growth.

The survey calls for a second green revolution. As the world is undergoing a Food Crisis, the solution is to upgrade agriculture so that India becomes the granary of the world.

As far as the stock market is concerned, every correction is good.

Cricket Astrology

2011-02-23T20:16:00.001-08:00

In Cricket Astrology, Mars is the planet of Cricket and the 3,6,7 and 11 houses are very important.

The Third House signifies ability, courage, hands, energy, fitness, mental strength, intelligence. The Sixth House represents enemies, victory, action and competition. The Seventh House represents the opponent. The Eleventh House represents fame, gain, fulfillment of desire, ambitions, profits, wishes and desires.

Sagittarius represents ground playing games and the Signs which trine Sag like Leo and Aries also become significant. Aries is the natural Ascendant of the Cosmic Man or Kalapurusha and Leo, the sign of sports and games.

Mars represents the organising ability, administration, competition, determination and energy ( sathvam kujo ) . Mars is the most important planet in Cricket Astrology and you will find powerful Mars in the horoscopes of Cricketers. The power of 3,6,7 and 11 Houses also denote cricketing success.

Mars is in the 7th House in Aries, forming Ruchaka Maha Yoga, in the horoscope of Kapil Dev.

Mars is exalted in the horoscopes of Wadekar, Gavaskar and Tendulkar.

Mars is powerfully posited in Scorpio in the horoscope of the Wall ( Dravid ).

In Ganguly's horoscope, Mars aspects the 6th and 7th Houses.

Mars tenants the Ascendant in Srinath's horoscope.

Mars is powerfully posited in the 3rd in Sehwag's horoscope.

Mars aspects the 5th House, in Yuvraj's horoscope.

Mars is powerfully posited in own sign, in C K Nayudu's horoscope.

Mars is placed in the 5th, in Leo, in Bradman's horoscope.

Kerala Summer Rains !

2011-02-22T19:43:00.001-08:00

Yesterday it rained heavily for more than two hours. Started from 0600PM and lasted till 0830 PM.

There is a saying in Malayalam " Kumbha mazhayil kathirum pookam " - that anything will sprout during the summer rains in the sidereal months of Aquarius.

Temperature may rise to more than 40 degrees win the sidereal months of Aquarius ( Kumbha ) and Pisces ( Meena ).

Kerala receives more than 400 mm rains during the summer. This comes as a big relief from the blistering heat. And when Kala Varsha ( South East Monsoon ) comes, people welcome it as a merciful release, even though it can wreak havoc on the "rural infrastructure" !

Dhanishta Njattuvela will affect Kerala Climate

2011-01-29T21:13:00.000-08:00

Climate Change, wrought about by Global Warming, has had its impact on Kerala.

The Solar transit of Alpha Aquilae is on. From Feb 6th onwards, the Sun will transit Alpha Delphini ( Dhanishta or Avittam ).

The longish North East Monsoon, and the retreating coldness which came later, saw the temperature rise in Kerala. Now it is 35 degree Celsius. In Palghat, 38 degrees were recorded.

Cold ocean winds reduce the heat. These winds have started operation quite earlier than last year.

Hot air rises high in the atmosphere and the cold winds from the ocean fill this void. These winds are there from 1100 AM onwards, coming from the Bay of Bengal. These winds reduce the temperature of the land.

Intense heat is beginning to be felt in Trichur and Palghat. Irrigation has been started in agri lands and this time it was started earlier than usual. Normally irrigation start from the sidereal month of Sagittarius or Dhanus ( from 15 Dec onwards ).

Even though rains have been above the average last year, still potable water problem will persist. From the latter half of February onwards these winds will retreat, making Kerala a very hot place ! Palghat may record heat more than 40 degrees Celsius ( the highest temp recorded last year ).

It is relief for Keralites that the dusty Palghat winds have not strengthened now. Diseases are propagated by these winds.

The current climate - because of the longish monsoons - is favourable for mango trees now. But then if the winds acquire more power, tender mangoes and flowers will fall.

There are reasons for the premature heat experienced now. Climatic changes and the changing rhythms of Kala Varsha ( South West Monsoon ) and Thula Varsha ( North East Monsoon ) are the causative factors. The South West Monsoon exited only after 27 days than normal. The North East Monsoon gave rains till the 15th of December.

Once the rains retreated, cold climate was felt till mid Jan.

Rising temperature has been reported in Kerala. The annual temperature is rising, according to the stats from Trichur, Trivandrum and Kottayam centers. The temp of the water on Trichur paddy fields in now 35 degrees Celsius. The normal temp is 30 degrees.

The summer rains which come in March and April keep the temperature stable in Kerala. Heat comes down in the rain falling areas. But then this will not solve the potable water problem. To the drinking water problem, Rainwater Harvesting has been recommended as the solution.

A Journey through the Six Seasons

2011-01-23T01:47:00.000-08:00

The sidereal months of Sagittarius and Capricorn constitute Hemanta Rithu. The coldness has not left Kerala. This Hemanta Rithu will be there till the 12th of February.

Sisira Rithu, the sidereal months of Aquarius and Pisces, is very hot indeed. It normally starts from the 13th of February to the 13th April ! During this sixth season of India, hot spells are normal and more than 100 people perished last year due to sunstroke.

Now it is still cold in the morning and even during midday. No need for air conditioners during this season.

Evening is also characterised by cold winds. The Sun will be transiting Sravana, Alpha Aquilae, initiating Thiruvonam Njattuvela tomorrow.

Amongst the six Rithus or seasons, Vasanta ( Medam & Edavam ) is comparitively less hot, Greeshma ( Gemini and Cancer ) and Varsha ( Leo and Virgo ) are rainy seasons, Sarat ( Libra and Scorpio ) is less rainy, Hemanta ( Sagittarius and Capricorn ) is cold and dry and Sisira ( Aquarius & Pisces ) is very hot indeed !

Correspondence between Music and Art

Herbert Read knew the correspondence between Music and Art. " All Art tends to Music", he averred. Human beings are inseparable from their surroundings. It so happens that dusk, dawn, the season, the nature, the lightning, the thunder - all these affect the mood of Man. This mood gives rise to Rasa and every possible Rasa in connection with these circumstantial surroundings has been found to be conveyed through Raga. The world of Ragas, therefore, has all the variety of Life and experiences of Man. This is so true of Indian Music. Seasons or Rithus are a dimension of the vast game of Life and Creation !

The Six Seasons of Indian Philosophy are ruled by Planets

For instance,

Vasanta Rithu is ruled by Venus
Greeshma by Mars and Sun
Varsha by the Moon
Sharath by Mercury
Hemanta by Jupiter
Sisira by Saturn

The Law of Correspondences state that the Six Seasons are related to the six Chakras, according to Kundalini Yoga. The Highest Chakra, the Sahasrara, the Thousand Petalled Lotus, is beyond Time and transcends everything. The lower six Chakras get mildly activated during the six seasons -

Ajna Chakra in Vasanta
Vishuddha in Greeshma
Anahata in Varsha
Manipura in Sharath
Swadhistana in Hemanta
Muladhara in Sisira

Sisira Rithu ( Kumbha & Meena ) is also the mango season, when mangoes are plenty in Kerala. Mangoes are used in Fish curry, in pickles and in all curries. Mango is a substitute for tamarind in curries. Mango pickles are of many types. Tender mangoes make excellent pickle and are known as Vadu Mango Pickle. Cut Mango pickles goes by the name Chethu Manga. Mangoes are dried and pickled. Ripe mangoes are eaten. With red chilli poweder, ripe mangoes are an excellent dish. Special type of pickle comes from Andhra known as Avakkai.

Tender mangoes are also pickled in brine.

India leads in the production of mangoes. 13.5 million tonnes. China is second at 3.7 million tonnes. Mango is a fruit indigenous to the Indian subcontinet and is the national fruit of India, Pakistan and the Philippines. The word mango is derived from the Malayalam manga .

Widely used in Cuisine, chutneys are made from sour, unripe mangoes. Mango Lassi, a popular drink in S Asia, is made by mixing ripe mangoes, curd and sugar. Mangoes can be eaten raw with salt. A cooling summer drink called panna comes from mangoes. Green mangoes can be used as mango salad with dried shrimp and fish sauce.

Mango is rich in phytochemicals and nutrients. Also vitamins and minerals. The antioxidant vitamins A, C and E compose 25%, 76% and 9% of the DRI ( Dietary Reference Intake ) in a 165 gms serving. Mangoes also contain Vitamin B6, Vitamin K, B vitamins and other nutrients.

The Veli Tourist Village

2011-01-17T22:36:00.001-08:00

On the Shankhumugham Beach, you can see the Devi Temple. It is well maintained. Just one km away is the Veli Estuary, where the Veli River meets the roaring Arabian Sea !

The Veli Tourist Village is a beautiful picnic spot. The VIllage is open from 0800 - 1800 hrs.

This picnic spot offers boating facilities. Paddle boats and pedal boats can be hired to explore the charms of the lagoon. Speedboats are available for a fast ride on the waters. Children relish the sculpture which tenant the landscape.

Here are the rentals for boats

Speedboat - Rs 150 per head
Safari boat - 15 per head
4 seater pedal boat - 100 per hour
2 seater pedal boat - 80 per hour

Veli Youth Hostel - Ph 2500785

Trivandrum Airport is just 3 kms away from Veli and Trivandrum Railway Station just 8 kms away.

My Trip to Shankhumugham Beach

2011-01-15T20:06:00.001-08:00

I went to Trivandrum to install a software. When I got some extra time, I went to the Shankhumukham beach.

The Shankhumugham Beach is the favourite beach coming to watch sunsets. This beauteous beach is proximate to the Trivandrum International Airport and the famous Veli Tourism Village.

Very near to my client's place is the Ashram of Amma. I met her yesterday.
She was giving a spiritual lecture at her ashram. It was a good spiritual
experience.

An indoor recreation club, the statue of a mermaid, the matsya kanyaka, are some of the features of this park. The giant statue of the mermaid is a 35 m long sculpture. A National Park nearby is an added attraction.

The beach sands are of reddish yellow hue.

The nearest Railway Station, Trivandrum Central, is just 7 km away. The Trivandrum Airport is just a drive away.

This beach is well maintained and one can glimpse the beauty of Nature..

This beach is part of Kerala's 600 km coastline. Tamil Nadu has 1000 km coastline and Gujarat 1600 kms. India has 7500 km coastline. Peninsular India has 5500 kms of coastline, while India's islands, Nicobar, Andamans and Laccadives have 2000 kms of coastline !

Hotles to stay during your trip to Trivandrum, the official capital of Kerala.

The Leela Kempinski Kovalam Beach
Kovalam
Thiruvananthapuram -695527

reservations.kovalam@theleela.com
www.theleela.com
+ 91 471 2480101, + 91 471 2481522
Tariff Rs.8500 - 55000

Surya Samudra Private Retreats
Pulinkudi, Mulloor P.O.
Thiruvananthapuram - 695521

reservations@suryasamudra.com
www.suryasamudra.com
+ 91 471 2267333, 2480413, +91 471 2267124
Tariff Rs.8300 - 83800

Vivanta by Taj - Kovalam
G.V. Raja Vattapara Road,
Kovalam
Thiruvananthapuram - 695527

vivanta.trivandrum@tajhotels.com
www.vivantabytaj.com, www.tajhotels.com
+91 471 6613000, + 91 471 2487744
Tariff Rs.12500 - 82500

Karikkathi Beach House
Cliff Beach Garden, South of Kovalam, North of Chowara,
Via Nagar Bhagavathi Temple, Mulloor Thottam, Pulinkudi, Thiruvananthapuram
karikkathi@gmail.com
www.karikkathibeachhouse.com
+ 91 471 2400956, + 91 98470 69654,
Tariff Euro 75 - 590

Poovar Island Resorts
K.P. VII/911
Pozhiyoor
Thiruvananthapuram - 695513

reservations@poovarislandresort.com
www.poovarislandresort.com
+ 91 471 2212068 / 69 / 73, + 91 471 2212092
Tariff Rs.3000 - 19999

Samudra (KTDC)
Kovalam
Thiruvananthapuram - 695527

samudrakovalam@ktdc.com
www.samudrakovalam.com, www.ktdc.com
+ 91 471 2480089, 2481412, + 91 471 2480242
Tariff Rs.3100 - 9900

Nikki's Nest
Azhimala Shiva Temple Road, Pulinkudi, Chowara P. O., South of Kovalam,
Thiruvananthapuram - 695501
nest@sancharnet.in
www.nikkisnest.com
+ 91 471 2267822, 2268822, + 91 471 2267182
Tariff Euro 80 - 200

Isola Di Cocco Ayurvedic Heritage Beach Resort
Poovar
Thiruvananthapuram

info@isoladicocco.com
www.isoladicocco.com
+ 91 471 2210008, 2210800, 2210918, + 91 471 2210500
Tariff Rs.5000 - 9000

Estuary Island Resort
Poovar P.O, Thiruvananthapuram - 695525
sales@estuaryisland.com
www.estuaryisland.com
+ 91 471 2229222, +91 471 222 9333
Tariff Rs. 3800 - 11000

Beach & Lake Ayurvedic Resort
Pozhikkara Beach Pachalloor P. O. Thiruvananthapuram - 695027
beachandlake@hotmail.com
beachandlakeresort.com
+ 91 471 2382086, 2383066, + 91 471 2382066
Tariff Rs. 2000 - 5500

Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel
G.V. Raja Road, Samudra Beach,
Kovalam
Thiruvananthapuram - 695527

info@uds.co.in
www.uds.co.in
+ 91 471 2485766 / 67 / 68, +91 471 2481578
Tariff Rs.3600 - 13000

Soma Palmshore Beach Resort
Light House Road, Kovalam Beach, Thiruvananthapuram - 695521

mail@soma.in
www.somapalmshore.com
+ 91 471 2486666, 2481481, 2266111, +91 471 2487777, 2480495
Tariff Euro 40 - 95

Thapovan Heritage Home
Nellikunnu
Mulloor P. O., Thiruvananthapuram - 695521

thapovan@gmail.com
www.thapovan.com
+ 91 471 2480453 , + 91 471 2482430
Tariff Rs.2200 - 5850

Coconut Bay Beach Resort
Mulloor P.O.
Vizhinjam
Thiruvananthapuram - 695521

cocobay@vsnl.com
www.coconutbay.com
+ 91 471 2343524, 2480566, 2480668, + 91 471 2343349
Tariff Euro 45 - 190

Hotel Sea Face
NUP Beach Road, Kovalam
Thiruvananthapuram - 695527
tvm_seafaceh@sancharnet.in
www.seaface.com
+ 91 471 2481835, 2481836, 481591, + 91 471 2481320
Tariff Rs.2000 - 8000

Dr. Franklin's Panchakarma Institute & Research Centre
Chowara P. O., Kovalam
Thiruvananthapuram - 695501

ayurveda@dr-franklin.com
www.dr-franklin.com
+91 471 2480870, 2267974, + 91 99463 10551, + 91 471 2268071
Tariff Euro 10 - 55

Jeevan Ayurvedic Beach Resort
Main Light House Beach, Kovalam, Vizhinjam P.O., Thiruvananthapuram - 695521

james@jeevanresort.net
www.jeevanresort.net
+ 91 471 2483062, 2480662, + 91 95391 34851,
Tariff Rs.925 - 6300

Jasmine Palace
Kovalam Beach,
Kovalam P.O.
Thiruvananthapuram - 695527
jaspalace@satyam.net.in
www.jasminepalace.net
+ 91 471 2481475, + 97464 86987, + 91 471 2481475
Tariff Rs.1000 - 3500

Sagara Beach Resort
Light House Road, Kovalam, Vizhinjam P.O.,
Thiruvananthapuram - 695523

sagarabeachresort@usa.net
www.sagararesortkovalam.com
+91 471 2481995, 2484077, +91 98473 90885,
Tariff Rs.2000 - 9000

Raja Hotel
Kovalam
Thiruvananthapuram

info@rajahotel.net
www.rajahotel.net
+ 91 471 2480355, 2481355, 2480455, + 91 471 2480455
Tariff Rs.1500 - 3500

Bethsaida Hermitage
Pulinkudy, Mulloor P. O.
Thiruvananthapuram - 695521
info@bethsaidahermitage.com
www.bethsaidahermitage.com
+ 91 471 2268131,
Tariff + 91 471 2267554

Temple Garden
Kovalam Thiruvananthapuram - 695501

reservations@templegarden.in
www.templegarden.in
+ 91 471 2481972,
Tariff Rs.1500 - 2500

Hotel Thushara
Kovalam
Thiruvananthapuram - 695527

hotelthushara@yahoo.com
www.thusharakovalam.com
+ 91 471 2480692, 2481694, 2481080 , + 91 471 2481693
Tariff Rs. 800 - 2500

Manaltheeram Ayurveda Beach Village
Chowara P. O.,
South of Kovalam
Thiruvananthapuram - 695501

mail@manaltheeram.com
www.manaltheeram.com
+ 91 471 2266222, + 91 94477 66222, + 91 471 2267611
Tariff Euro 50 - 242

Beach Hotel Neelakanta
Light House Beach,Kovalam
Thiruvananthapuram - 695521

hotelneelakanta@yahoo.com
www.hotelneelakantakovalam.com
+ 91 471 2480321, 2486004, + 91 9847875206 , + 91 471 2485180
Tariff Rs.1300 - 4000

Pappukutty Beach Resort
Light House Beach, Kovalam,
Thiruvananthapuram

info@pappukutty.in
www.pappukutty.in
+ 91 471 2480235, + 91 471 2480234
Tariff Rs.1600 - 4200

Swagath Holiday Resorts
Kovalam
Thiruvananthapuram - 695527

swagathresort@gmail.com
www.swagathresorts.com
+ 91 471 2481148, 2481149 , + 91 471 2481150
Tariff Rs.1800 - 8400

Hotel Marine Palace
NUP Beach Road
Kovalam,
Thiruvananthapuram - 695527

info@hotelmarinepalace.com
www.hotelmarinepalace.com
+91 471 2481428, 2481428, +91 471 2481428
Tariff Rs.1300 - 3600

Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort
Chowara P.O.
South of Kovalam, Thiruvananthapuram - 695501

mail@somatheeram.in
www.somatheeram.in
+ 91 471 2268101, 2266111, + 91 471 2267611
Tariff Euro 50 - 300

Hotel Blue Sea Heritage
Beach Road, Kovalam
Thiruvananthapuram - 695527

sabu.kovalam@gmail.com
www.hotelbluesea.net
+ 91 471 2481401, 2912110, 2480402,
Tariff Rs.850 - 3500

Seaside Hotel Rockholm
Light House Road, Vizhinjam,
Thiruvananthapuram - 695521

info@rockholm.com
www.rockholm.com
+ 91 471 2480306, 2480406, 2480407, + 91 471 2480607
Tariff Rs.1750 - 5000

Hotel Sreevisakh
Beach Road, Kovalam
Thiruvananthapuram -
695527

contact@hotelsreevisakh.com
www.hotelsreevisakh.com
+ 91 471 2480445, + 91 471 2480163
Tariff Rs.1500 - 3000

Kovalam Beach Retreat
Puja Building, Samudra Beach,
G.V. Raja Road, Kovalam,
Thiruvananthapuram -
695527

info@kovalambeachretreat.com
www.kovalambeachretreat.com
+ 91 471 2481245, + 91 93880 77999, + 91 471 2480634
Tariff Rs.3500 - 5000

The Gateway Hotel Janardhanapuram Varkala
Near Government Guest House,
Janardanapuram,Varkala, Thiruvananthapuram - 695141

gateway.varkala@tajhotels.com
www.thegatwayhotels.com, www.tajhotels.com
+91 470 6673300�, + 91 470 2602296
Tariff Rs.6250 - 11000

Vivanta by Taj - Trivandrum
C V Raman Pillai Road, Thycaud,
Thiruvananthapuram - 695014

vivanta.trivandrum@tajhotels.com
www.vivantabytaj.com, www.tajhotels.com
+ 91 471 6612345 , + 91 471 6612021
Tariff Rs. 8000 - 14000

The Muthoot Plaza
Punnen Road Thiruvananthapuram - 695039

tvm@muthootplaza.com
www.themuthootplaza.com
+ 91 471 2337733, + 91 471 2337734
Tariff Rs.5800 - 18000

Best Western Classic Avenue
Manjalikulam Road, Thampanoor Thiruvananthapuram - 695001

mail@classicavenue.net
www.classicavenue.net
+91 471 2333555, +91 471 2338855
Tariff Rs.4000 - 7000

The South Park
Kerala Hotels Pvt. LtdM G Road, Thiruvananthapuram - 695034

reservations@thesouthpark.com
www.thesouthpark.com
+91 471 2333333 , +91 471 2331861
Tariff Rs.3500 - 9000

Mascot Hotel (KTDC)
Thiruvananthapuram - 695033

mascothotelthiruvananthapuram@ktdc.com
www.mascothotelthiruvananthapuram.com, www.ktdc.com
+91 471 2318990, +91 471 2317745
Tariff Rs. 4000 - 15000

Thiruvambadi Beach Retreat
North End Down Clif Thiruvambadi Road,Varkala
Thiruvananthapuram - 695241

contact@thiruvambadihotel.com
www.thiruvambadihotel.com
+91 470 2601028, 2604345, +91 470 2604345
Tariff Rs.500 - 9000

Preeth Beach Resort
P.O. 1400
Near Papanasam Cliff, Varkala, Thiruvananthapuram - 695141

preethonline@satyam.net.in
www.preethbeachresort.com
+91 470 2600942, 2602341 , +91 470 2600942
Tariff Rs.700 - 4000

Raja Park Beach Resort
Near Papanasam Cliff, Varkala, Thiruvananthapuram

contact@rajapark.com
www.rajapark.com
+91 470 2607060 , +91 470 2608060
Tariff Rs.1725 - 5175

Hill Top Resort
Papanasam Cliff,Varkala Thiruvananthapuram � 695141

hill_top@rediffmail.com
www.hilltopvarkala.com
+91 470 2601237, 2610443�, +91 470 2606537
Tariff Rs. 500 - 3500

Varkala Marine Palace
Papanasam Beach,Varkala Thiruvananthapuram

bhasker_bs@rediffmail.com
www.varkala-marine-palace.com
+91 470 2603204,
Tariff Rs.1000 - 4200

Sea Pearl Chalets
Varkala Thiruvananthapuram

seapearlvarkala@hotmail.com
www.seapearlchalets.com
+91 470 2660105,
Tariff Rs. 1000 - 2000

Hindustan Beach Retreat
Papanasam Beach Janardhanapuram (P.O.), Varkala Thiruvananthapuram - 695141

hindretreat@vsnl.net
www.hindustanbeachretreat.com
+91 470 2604254, 2604255,
Tariff Rs.3000 - 5500

The Residency Tower
Press Road Thiruvananthapuram - 695001

info@residencytower.com
www.residencytower.com
+91 471 2331661, +91 471 2331311
Tariff Rs.3200 - 6500

Hotel Saj Lucia
East Fort Thiruvananthapuram -
695023

sajlucia@md2.vsnl.net.in
www.sajlucia.com
+91 471 2463443, +91 471 2463347
Tariff Rs.6000 - 10000

Maurya Rajadhani
Statue - G. H Road Thiruvananthapuram

maurya@rajadhanihotels.com
www.mauryarajadhani.com
+91 471 2469469, 2462299 , +91 471 2472299
Tariff Rs.2000 - 5000

Hotel Horizon
Aristo Road Thiruvananthapuram - 695014

horizon@asianetindia.com
www.thehotelhorizon.com
+91 471 2326888, 2323222, +91 471 2324444
Tariff Rs.1800 - 4300

Hotel Geeth International
Near GPO,Pulimoodu Jn. Thiruvananthapuram - 695001

reservations@geethinternational.in
www.geethinternational.in
+ 91 471 306600, 3012301, + 91 471 2460278
Tariff Rs.1500 - 3000

Jas Hotels Pvt Ltd
Thycaud P.O Thiruvananthapuram - 695014

jas@md2.vsnl.net.in
www.jashotels.com
+91 471 232488, 2324682, +91 471 2324443
Tariff Rs.800 - 3000

Hotel Thamburu International
Aristo Junction Thampanoor Thiruvananthapuram - 695014

thamburuintl@asianetindia.com

'+ 91 471 2321974, 2321987,
Tariff Rs.750 - 1900

Hotel Regency
Manjalikulam Cross Road,
Thampanoor Thiruvananthapuram - 695001

info@hotelregency.com
www.hotelregency.com
'+ 91 471 2330377, 2331541, + 91 471 2331690
Tariff Rs.450 - 1250

Chaithram (KTDC)
Thampanoor, Thiruvananthapuram - 695001

chaithramthiruvananthapuram@ktdc.com
www.ktdc.com
+91 471 2330977, +91 471 2331446
Tariff Rs.1300 - 2500

Golden Peak (KTDC)
Ponmudi
Thiruvanathapuram - 695551
goldenpeakponmudi@ktdc.com
www.ktdc.com
+91 472 2890225, 2890186, +91 472 2890187
Tariff Rs. 1800 - 4000

Hotel Highland
Manjalikulam Road, Thampanoor, Thiruvananthapuram - 695001

highland@highland-hotels.com
www.highland-hotels.com
+91 471 2333200, +91 471 2332645
Tariff Rs. 400 - 1250

Hotel Arulakam
Station Road,
Over Bridge Junction Thiruvananthapuram - 695001

www.hotelarulakam.com
'+ 91 9447133133, 9447019535,
Tariff Rs.300 - 1200

Azhimala Ayurveda Beach Resort
Aazhimala Temple Road, Chowara,
Thiruvananthapuram - 695501

mail@aazhimala.com
www.aazhimala.com
'+ 91 471 2269695, 6456542, '+ 91 471 2269539
Tariff Euro 43 - 104

Sea Flower Beach resort
Light House Road, Vizhinjam P.O., Kovalam, Thiruvananthapuram - 695521

seaflowerkovalam@gmail.com

'+ 91 471 2480554, 2481069,
Tariff Euro 8 - 45

Hawah Beach Resort
Light House
Kovalam, Vizhinjam P.O, Thiruvananthapuram

info@hawahbeach.com
www.hawahbeach.com
+91 471 2481951, 2482026, +91 471 2482026
Tariff Rs.1400 - 5500

Temple Garden
Kovalam
Thiruvananthapuram -
695501

reservations@templegarden.in
www.templegarden.in
+91 471 2481972�, +91 471 2481972
Tariff Rs.1500 - 2500

Hotel Sea Rock
Kovalam Thiruvananthapuram

searockhotel@yahoo.com
www.hotelsearock.co.in
+ 91 471 2480422, + 91 97460 55816,
Tariff Rs.2000 - 8000

The Travancore Heritage
Chowara P.O.
Thiruvananthapuram -
695501

travancoreheritage@vsnl.net
www.thetravancoreheritage.com
+91 471 2267828 � 32, +91 471 2267201
Tariff Rs.2800 - 20800

Ideal Ayurvedic Resort
Chowara Beach, Chowara P.O.,
Beach Village Thiruvananthapuram

idealresort@eth.net
www.idealayurvedicresort.com
+ 91 471 2481632, 2268396,
Tariff Euro 33 - 70

New Ideal Panchakarma Centre
Chowara Beach, Chowara P.O.,
Thiruvananthapuram

idealcentre@bsnl.in
www.panchakarmakerala.com
+ 91 471 2266600, 2269900,
Tariff Euro 27 - 58

The Ruby Arena
Medical College .P.O
Thiruvananthapuram - 695011
rubyarena@gmail.com
www.rubyarena.com
+91 471 2557474, +91 471 2557484
Tariff Rs. 1400 - 3500

Somatheeram Ayurvedic Health Resort
Chowara P.O.
South of Kovalam
Thiruvananthapuram - 695501

info@somatheeram.org
www.somatheeram.org
+91 471 2266501�� 03, +91 471 2266505
Tariff Euro 50 - 300

Bio Veda Hill Resorts
Kaalipara, Neyyar Dam,
Thiruvananthapuram
info@bioveda.in
www.bioveda.in
+ 91 9645 864754, 94223 88982,
Tariff 1000 - 2200

Hotel Highland Park
Manjalikulam Road, Thampanoor
Thiruvananthapuram - 695002

highlandpark@highland-hotels.com
www.highland-hotels.com
+91 471 2338800, +91 471 2333524
Tariff Rs. 800 - 1900

Ginger Hotels
Techno Park Campus, By - Pass Road, Thiruvanathapuram - 695581

reservation.trivandrum@gingerhotels.com
www.gingerhotels.com
+91 471 6663333, +91 471 6663366
Tariff Rs. 2999

Kerala beautiful

2011-01-12T02:01:00.001-08:00

Tourism Marketing is defined as the enabler of a country to invite guests from different cultures, customs, traditions, to enjoy their rich culture, heritage, cuisines, art and architecture, entertainment and hospitality.

Tourism Industry is the largest employment generator in the world. We find that small countries like Malaysia and Singapore woo millions of foreign tourists and bag billions of foreign exchange. India has been lagging behind so far, due to innumerable reasons.

Now India tourism receipts show better stats. India received $15 billion and Kerala received $3 billion. India, who houses rich tourist locations, have so far been at the bottom of the World Tourism Receipt countries and does not figure in the top ten.
This is mainly because of the step daughterly treatment Tourism Industry got from the country's planners. It was only last year that the Government allocated 1000 crores in the Indian budget for the Tourism sector.

United States lead with receipts of over $ 100 b. Spain is second with 60 b, Germany, UK and China are about 40 billion.

Tourism infrastructure should be improved in India, if India is to exploit the full potential of Tourism. India at the moment receives 5 million Foreign Tourist Arrivals and earns more than $ 15 b in forex. Domestic tourists have gone up to 200 million. This low rank of India, when compared to other countries, is due to the lack of vision of the Indian authorities, who considered Tourism as a pastime for the rich !

Tourism is actually Recreational Therapy. When the mind is fed up with daily chores and hard work, a vacation becomes the need of the hour. People prefer beaches and backwaters and the mind finds relief in vacational experiences !

Kerala was an unknown destination, till the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation, promoted it. Kerala is promoted as Green and Cool, in contrast to the hot and dusty India !. Kerala is totally different from the rest. She receives seven months of continous rainfall, almost 3000 mm of rains per year, and is full of greenery, and looks like a Paradise on earth.

India at the moment has a poor marketing image and she has to improve her marketing efforts. Tourism Marketing is different from other forms of Marketing and needs a well integrated marketing approach. You are marketing a country and Positioning and Promotion are twin eyes. It is integrated with leisure, entertainment, transportation, communication and all service sectors. The whole process has to be revitalized and a full fledged marketing process should be undertaken. The same old Segmentation, Targeting and Positioning method can be used in this form of marketing, to bring home the bacon.

India possesses everything. The rich cultural heritage, sprawling deserts, highest mountains, sculptures, temples, palaces, delicious cuisines, rare mixture of life style - all these make India a Cross Cultural Paradise on earth. The Private Sector should work with the Government to make India a great destination for the traveller.

We have lost this massive golden opportunity for the last 53 years and should not do so in the future, which belongs to China and India. This decade will see the emergence of these two giants, the Dragon and the sleeping Elephant !

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Kerala's 27 Beaches !

2011-01-12T01:58:00.001-08:00

The beaches of the Western world are no doubt great, but the traveller and
tourist can have different experiences with the beaches of the East. The
beach resorts of Asia are a good competition to the best beach destinations
of the world. The great mystic civilization of the East, its emphasis on
Mysticism and inner control, exotic natural landscapes, the mentality of the
locals totally different from their Western counterparts, are great
attractions to the global tourists.

The USPs of Asian vacation are its great backwaters, its unique beaches with
clear waters, coral reefs and mammoth waves for surfing. The global
traveller who chooses to go East will have to choose from the countries of
a massive continent with a wide choice of tropical places with unique sandy
beaches. From Israel to Sri Lanka, from Egypt to Indonesia, Thailand, India
and the Philippines, a great variety of beaches awaits the traveller !

Kerala, green and cool, and breathtaking in its natural beauty, is one of
the best choices for Beach Tourism.

Here we give a list of the 27 beaches that adorn God's own Country, so
called by Walter Mendis, because of its lush green landscape.

Though Kerala is famous for its backwaters, this land house some of the
India's finest beaches. Kerala's 900 km coastline is embellished with sandy
beaches, coconut palms and rocky capes. The blue waves washing the sandy
beaches is a good sight to behold.

The beaches - alluring, clean with a blue background, are a great escapism
from the routine drudgeries of life. You can watch the sun disappear into
the horizon, the pageantry of the wandering clouds and changing hues of the
sky. It is Nature in its pristine beauty. You can chase the crabs, race the
waves, do sun bathing and watch another day at the beach unfold leisurely.
Beaches are the vacationer's Paradise.

These vacations can become unforgettable holidays because of the friendly
people and the delectable seafood cuisine you normally get at beach resorts
!

1) Nattika Beach, Trichur

This beach is situated 30 kms off Trichur and is an ideal place to spend a
leisurely day. A perfect picnic spot, because of the the rhythmic waves and
the stretch of sand golden. You will be bewitched by the swaying palm trees,
which seem to hum the Music of Nature ! Amidst the rural setting, you will
find resorts which give you the best seafood cuisine along with vegetarian.

2) Vadanappally Beach, Trichur

Located just 20 km off Trichur, Vadanappally Beach is a great sight to
behold. For those who are looking for a picnic and fun at the beach, this
calm beach fringed with coconut palms is ideal.
3) Chavakkad Beach
Just 5 kms off Guruvayur ( just half an hour journey from Trichur ), this 15
km long beach is breathtaking in its beauty. If you travel to Chavakkad
Azhimukham, the Chavakkad Estuary, where the sea confuences with a river,
you can enjoy the beauty of the sea and the beauty
of the river ! Fringed with coconut palms and green ambience, this Estuary
is one of the best places to go, as you can enjoy Nature in her pristine
beauty. ' Nature never did betray the heart that loved her" said Wordsworth
!

4) Alleppey Beach, Alappuzha
Alleppey Beach is one of the most popular beach locations in Kerala. A
perfect picnic spot for the family. The pier which extends into the sea is
just 140 years old. There are entertainment facilities at the Vijaya Beach
Park, which add to the attraction of this beauteous beach.

5) Marari Beach, Alleppey
Just an hour from Cochin lies this beauteous beach, right in the heart of
the Spice Coast. This beach is a tantalising stretch of sandy beach fringed
with palms, and a Heaven for those who want to get away from the Madding
Crowd, from the hustle and bustle of city life.

6) Fort Kochi Beach, Ernakulam

Adorned with Chinese fishing nets, this beach is a must see for those who
hunger for Nature in her primordial beauty. Great sunsets can be viewed on
this beach. On New Years Eve, people flock to his beach. You get a lot of
seafood cuisine also. Also drinks. You can see the fishing folk come out
with great catches. You can view how the Chinese fishing nets operate.

7) Cherai Beach, Vypeen Islands

Ideal for swimming, this superb beach is just 45 kms off from Cochin City.
You can watch dolphins which are occasionally seen here. You can see a
typical Kerala village, adorned with coconut trees and paddy fields !
8) Payyambalam Beach, Kannur

This beach is near St Angelo's Fort and this beach is turning out to be a
major tourist attraction. The famous sculptor, Kunji Raman, has made several
statues and scuptures on the beach as well as the park adjacent to the
beach.

9) Mazhuppilangadi Beach, Kannur

This is a 4.5 km long beach and the uniqueness of this beach is that
vehicles can be driven through this beach without getting stuck in the sand.
This is also known as the Mazhuppilangadi Drive-In Beach for this reason. As
the beach does not have violent waves and is shallow, this beach is fancied
by swimmers !

Canoly Canal to be revived !

2011-01-12T01:55:00.001-08:00

The Canoly Canal is Kerla's vital inland waterway.

The Canoly Canal starts from Ponnani and flows thru Trichur, meets Periyar and meets the Vembanad Lake. So this inland waterway can stretch from Malappuram to Alleppey. Goods can be transported via the canal which will ease road and rail traffic. General boating and tourists can travel, if this canal built by a Westerner can be revived !

IT is said that the Government has already initiated a project to revive the canal. It was the visit of a team led by B R Menon, Chairman, KSINC, which triggered the significance of the Canal.

The Canoly Canal was built by the earstwhile Governor of Malabar. Till the late 1950s, the Canal was used as a major waterway for the transportation of goods and ferrying passengers.

Today the Canal represents a pathetic picture. BR Menon said that the Government is actively trying to develop the canal. This major inland waterway can connect many districts and goods and passenger traffic can be would be introduced through it and this will ease roal and rail traffic.

Dredging will be carried out every year. The Canal will be deepened at some places. 3.1 cr would have to be spent for strengthening the walls of the Canal. The Canal is part of the West Coast Canal System. It has a width varying from 6 to 20 meters and the water depth ranges from .5 to 2 meters.

Inland water system is cheaper by 50% than that of road and rail systems. It is also environment friendly and fuel efficient mode of transportation.

Kerala Tourism will receive a boost, if this canal is revived.

My trip to Vypeen Islands

2010-12-24T19:40:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I had a software installation in Kochi. So I reached Kochi and installed the software in minutes.

When I got out of the Office on Marine Drive, it was 1100 AM. I took a boat to Vypeen Islands. This is my first trip to Vypeen. I had studied at Kochi, at Ernakulam, when I did my PDC, in 1970 and 71. Now Kochi looks vastly different.

The Boat Jetty has been improved by a new building. There are frequent ferry trips to Mattancherry and Fort Kochi. I got a boat to Vypin at 1200 PM. It went via Willingdon Island, an artificial island carved out by Willingdon.

As we neared W Island, one can see the Taj Malabar, the five star hotel. Then the boat moved towards Vypeen.

We can see the giant gantry cranes of Vallarpadam very nearby. Vallarpadam is an island on the Wembanad Lake and is the site of the International Container Transhipment Terminal. The ICTT will be functional within six months time.

The Vypin boat jetty needs a lot of improvement. Near the boat jetty is the Vypeen Bus Stand.

It is a glorious view from Vypeen. We can see Fort Kochi on the other side. Taj Malabar on W Island looked a bit far and Vallarpadam is nearby !.

I then took a bus to Njarakkal, another tourist center. We have a beach at Njarakkal, but the facilities are not developed. Construction of the roads are underway.

There is an Aquatic Club at Njarakkal. You can fish there on the brackish water fish farm. They charge 150 INR per ticket. You can get gorgeous sea food, from the Sea Food Restaurant there. The Aquatic Club is manned by Matsya Fed.

From Njarakkal, I took a bus to the famous Cherai Beach. The beach is a beautiful sight and there are hotels and bars nearby. Cherai Beach seems to be better developed than Njarakkal. I saw more than 50 Westerners, some taking sun bath and others enjoying the sea.

From Cherai, I came to Trichur via the bus route. Last time I had crossed via Jungar, from Munambam ( Ernakulam ) to Azheekode ( Trichur ). This time I came to Kodungalloor without crossing via ferry. There were three bridges, which include the famous Kottappuram bridges, to cross. I reached Trichur within one hour.

Even though I had studied in Kochi, I had not seen the islands fully before. Hence this trip made me more knowledgeable about the spots which are going to develop, as the ICTT becomes operational within June 2011.

Yoga Tourism In Kerala

2010-12-03T21:20:00.001-08:00

Yoga Therapy has been hailed the world over. Yuj means to unite and Yoga is Union with the Absolute Being.

Yoga is the Science of Man !

Know then thyself, presume not God to scan
The proper study of Mankind is Man !
Placed in the isthmus of a middle state
A being rudely great
With too much knowledge for the sceptic's side
And too many weaknesses for the Stoic's pride
He hangs between !

Yoga is a systematic study of man in his threefold aspect, as Mind, Body and Self. It is the Arts Artium or the Art of all arts and the Scientia Scientiarum, the science of all sciences. It is based on hoary Indian wisdom and culture and is the art of living a healthy, contented, balanced and peaceful life.

The Eightfold Path of Yoga is

Yama Conditional personal and social behaviour, according to Yogic Law
Niyama Attitutue under Yoga norms
Asana Physical Body discipline
Pranayama Breath Control
Pratyahara Senses control
Dharana Concentration
Dhyana Meditation
Samadhi Transcendental Consciousness

The first five are called Hatha Yoga, as it is culturing the physique. The last three are called Raja or Regal Yoga, as it deals with the culturing of the psyche. The first Five represent the Psychosomatic Approach and are referred to External or Bahirangi Yoga. The latter three affects the psyche and are known as Internal or Antaranga Yoga. It is to be noted that the Internal Yoga cannot be done without doing the External Yoga, as purification of body is a prerequisite for Self Actualisation. " Sareeram Adhyam Khalu Dharma Sadhanam", the body is the vehicle for Redemption !

Yoga and TM trigger the Relaxation Response and relaxes you completely. Gone are the strains and the stresses of relativistic life. The physical exercises called Asanas combats stress and keeps the body flexible.

The three physical states of Doing, Thinking and Being are highlighted in Yoga. All that we see is nothing but Universal Matter or Energy, the Adhibouthika aspect of Relative Being. All minds together is the Universal Mind and this is the Adhi Daivata aspect of the Supreme. These are all the manifestations of the Unmanifest and this is Brahman, the Absolute, transcending all relativities.

The destructible aspect is called Adhibootha
He who tenants the body, the Purusha, is Adhi Daivata
Being Absolute is Brahman called
These three are the triune states of Being. ( The Song Celestial, the Geetha )

We can transcend all relativities and reach the Absolute Self, via this great Science of Cosmic Union. This is the union mystica, envisaged by the mystic traditions of all other countries

Some of the Yoga Centers in Kerala which you can visit on Kerala Tours are

Transcendental Meditation Center, Poonkunnam, Trichur

Atmadarshan Yoga-Dhama - Ayur Health Center Fort, Vanciyoour, Sreekaneteswaram & Taycaud in Trivandrum - Dr D Sreekantan Nair Email intyoga(at)yahoo.com

Yoga Holidays at Edakkad Beach Houses, Edakkad Village Beach, Kerala. Email pam(at) bodybalancefunction.co.uk

Hatha Vidya Gurukulam - Neernamukku, Vadakkethara, Pazhayannur, Trichur, Kerala.

International Vasishta Yoga Research Foundation - Calicut, Kerala, S India, 673010. vaiyoga(at) yahoo.co.in

Kaivalyam Retreat, Moolakada, Pallivasal, Munnar, Kerala, 685612

Kasi Yoga Anushtana Kendram, Tulasivanam, N Kurakkanni Jn, Varkala. kasiyoga(at) gmail.com

School of Shanti Yoga, TC 15/1572, M P Appan Road, Vazhuthacaud, Trivandrum 695 014, Kerala. santhischool(at) yahoo.co.in

Sivasoorya Divine School of Yoga, Surya, Vellayani PO, Kerala. info(at)sivasoorya.org

Thulasidalam School of Yoga, Tulasidalam Sree Rama Yogashram, Thelliyoor PO, Near Thiruvalla, Kerala. indiayoga(at)gmail.com

Yoga Vidya Peetham, Varkala Beach in Kerala during winters and Dharmasala during summers. info(at) hathayoga-meditation.com

Sivananada Yoga Vedanta Centre in Trivandrum;

Kollam Yoga Kendra, Uilyakoil, I

deal Yoga Centre Manaltheeram Yoga Centre,

Jawahar Balabhavan and Holistic Eastern Advance Research Temple (Heart) in Kollam;

Prajapathi Yoga center, Kacheripady,

Life Yoga Center, Edapally, Adithya Yoga Institute, Thrikkakara,

Pathanjali Naturopathy & Yoga Clinic, Kaloor

Kerala Yoga Centre, in Kochi, Kerala India.

You can visit these centers and feel the holistic positive energy. Enjoy the healing, divine touch of Yoga.

Ayurvedic Tourism or Medical Tourism

2010-12-03T01:39:00.001-08:00

The application of these oils to the body by trained masseurs can give immense stress release to the patient. Various ailments like spondylitis, back injuries, sprains and muscle injuries also can be cured by Ayurvedic massages. You can experience the healing powers of Ayurveda. How true it is said that there is no earthly sorrow which Heaven cannot heal. ( Ayurveda is a heavenly science, as it is Veda, cognised by the Seers in higher states of Consciousness ).

Best suited for Ayurveda's restorative and curative programs are Kerala's equitable climate, natural abundance of forests with a wealth of herbs and medicinal plants and the cool Monsoons season from June to September. Kerala is the only state now in India which practises this ancient, hoary science with dedication. You can rejuvenate your body, mind and soul in the Monsoon Season by taking Ayurvedic treatment at least once in your lifetime in the green ambience of Kerala !

Body rejuvenation treatment can be taken for 7 days or for 14 or 28 days.

Rejuvenation Therapy ( Rasayana Chikitsa )

Two masseurs massage your body with medicated oil and cream, internal rejuvenative medicines and medicated steam bath. This therapy is for 2 hours per day in a treatment period of 7 days. This therapy tones up the skin, strengthens all systems and rejuvenates your body and mind.

Body Purification Therapy ( Shodana Chikitsa )

According to Ayurveda, three humours, vata, pitta and kapha should be in equilibrium and their disequilibrium is disease. Disease means a lack of ease. In Body Purification Therapy, body massages, medicated purgatives, detoxification using enema, steam bath are all done. Herbal drinks and internal herbal medicines are taken in.

The Sree Guruvayurappan Nursing Home in Guruvayur, www.sganh.com and www.ayurtoday.com is one of the oldest of Ayurvedic institutions. Another one is www.zamorins.com.

Ayurveda in Kerala

2010-12-03T01:10:00.000-08:00

The Kottakkal Pharmacy, Arya Vaidya Sala and Somatheertham Ayurvedic Resorts are some of the institutions which champion the cause of the Science of Life, Ayurveda, in Kerala.

Ayurveda - The True Health Care

A perfect, ancient science of Life and health care, Ayur means Life and Veda means science. This branch of Medicine succintly explains the scientia of dos and donts one has to follow to lead a holistic healthy life, is holistic in approach, and is good for both physique and psyche. It is curative and restorative and highlights the principle that Prevention is better than Cure.

The prophylactic wing of Ayurveda is known as Naturopathy, even though naturopaths differ about the origin of Naturopathy.

Ayurvedic Theory - The Five Great Elements

The Pancha Maha Bhootas or the Five Great Elements are the basis of not only Life, but of the Universe. Both the Macrocosm ( Universe ) and Microcosm ( Man ) are made up of the Elemental Five, Earth, Water, Fire, Air and Ether. Good equilibrium between the Elemental Five results in good health. On the other hand, disequilibrium is disease.

When the harmony of the Elemental Five is disturbed, the body goes into a state of negative health and this is where the Ayurvedic masseur or the physician steps in. Massage is the most common form of Ayurvedic Therapy and ayurvedic masseurs can be found everywhere. Essential oils and extracts of healing herbs are used in the formulation of Ayurvedic massage oils.

Kerala cuisine is spicy

2010-12-02T21:37:00.001-08:00

This standard Keralite breakfast is in tea stalls or corner cafes, where men take in the chai and breakfast, read the morning newspaper and debate over the latest political news. In larger towns and cities, a more generic South Indian breakfast is popular. This is based on the dishes originally devised in the Karnatka pilgrimage center called Udipi. Deep fried savoury doughnuts made of chickpea flur called Vada, and circular steamed rice cakes, called iddlis are served. They come along with Sambar, a sour and hot watery broth or mushed together with chutni, a paste made with ground coconut and chopped green or red chillies.

These idli-vada-sambar breakfasts are available on all hotels and tea stalls, particulary in urban Kerala. All round the clock in railways and bus stations, but then by 1100 AM, they switch to their lunchtime menu.

In the resorts of Kovalam and Varkala, toast, omlettes, museli and banana pancakes are served to the international and domestic tourists. Bread and espresso are available, along with furit salads, veg and non veg cultets.

If you are in a three star hotel, you can get Western food along with the Eastern. Buffetts rule the roost and you can get Western, Chinese or Oriental cuisine, as you prefer.

Midday Meals

Boiled rice, taken along with moru ( buttermilk ) or rasam ( pepper water in which tomatoes are boiled, a sort of soup ), and a wide variety of bolied vegetables constitute the midday meal. Mixed with hot spices, pachadi is a glorious dish, cooked as it is with tiny pieces of mango and mixed with spices. Pulses prepared with vegetables is Sambar, which is more or a less a must for the Keralite. Another dish is thoran, a coconut based dry fish dish. It is mixed with minutely chopped vegetables. Pappadams, crunchy round flakes made up of rice flour and pickles ( mango, lime, fish, prawn, pork, sardine, garlic, tender mango etc ) are a must for the Keralite.

In Islamic establishments, wheat preparations are available. Made from refined flour, parottas and pathiris are spirals, fried in oils and served with curries. Chappattis and pooris are also made from wheat and these are available in almost all hotels in Kerala.

Great Snacks

Abundance of jackfruits, pineapples, mangoes, bananas and custard apples grace Kerala. Alongside evening coffee, snacks like jackfruit or bananachips, and rice flour cookies called Achappam are served normally.

Kerala Cuisine

2010-12-02T20:57:00.001-08:00

Kerala, the Land of Spices, is famous for its cuisine. Traditionally, food is served on a banana leaf, but some now serve it on steel plates. Kerala is known for its spicy and hot foods. The Keralite takes food with the right hand.

Almost every dish prepared has coconut and spices to flavour the local cuisine. The use of tamarind heightenes the pungency and coconut gives its richness. Tender coconut water, a natural product in the Land of Coconuts, can be a threat to Coke and Pepsi, as it is a nutritious and refreshing quencher of thirst. Banana chips are to the Keralite mind what potato fries are to the American. Jackfruit chips, banana chips and the crunchy Papadam can give French Fries a run for their money any day.

Kerala cuisine is a mixture of meats, vegetables and seafood flavoured with a variety of spices. The main diet of Coastal Kerala is Seafood and vegetables in the plains of Kerala. Amongst tribals and North Kerala, meat is the main food.

Rice, the main food

Daily diet is mainly rice. Idlis or doshas, rice pancakes, are the main breakfast. Also vadas. Lunch, breakfast or dinner, it is rice preparation of rice in many aspects, served along with a variety of fish. Crustaceans, shrimps, lobsters, prawns are some of the other delicacies.

Breakfast and Morning Meals

Keralites are early risers, particularly women in the villages, who start the day with chai ( tea ) before their daily chores which consist of grinding rice, coconuts and spices for the daily meals. When the kids are up breakfast starts and consits of Poottu - cylinders of roughly pounded rice and coconut steamed together in hollowed out bamboos. Appams or cupped rice pancakes which are soft in the center and sweet bananas are served. A cup of warm tea, along with egg masala, a tasty gravy based on onions and eggs , which is poured over the poottu or appam and eaten with the fingers.

Kerala, hot spot for Monsoon Tourism

2010-12-02T01:23:00.000-08:00

The joy of the monsoons can be seen on everybody's face. Kids dancing in the streets, elders enjoying rains from the balconies of their flats or the sit outs of their homes and women preparing hot vadas and coffee are symbols of the first monsoon rain. Also the sight of people enjoying a common umbrella on the public place. Gone are the days of blistering heat in a tropical country !

A sharp fall in the number of tourists during the Monsoon was the phenomenon of the past. Now Kerala Tourism is working on a new Monsoon campaign to attract tourist during the monsoon season which starts from May 29 and ends on 16th of December ( from Rohini Njattuvela to Thrikketa Njattuvela ). Monsoons in Kerala are the most tantalising in India. With green ambience and plenty of rains, Kerala is the most sought after destination during the rainy season. The state is promoting Ayurvedic or Medical Tourism. The best season for Ayurvedic Healthcare is this season which stretches from June to Decemeber end.

Kerala is fast capturing the attention of international tourists as the prime destination for Monsoon Tourism. With its abundant water reservoirs of natural lakes and waterfalls, the North East region of Kerala is also fast emerging as a hot monsoon destination amongst local as well as international tourists.

Kerala Tourism is working on a schedule of events, which include a Monsoon Food Festival, a Monsoon Music Festival and a Monsoon Theatre Festival to capture the attention of the international tourist. A Monsoon Folklore Festival is also planned, as many of Kerala's diverse arts and folk traditions are associated with the Monsoon.

The romance of the Monsoons, with its green ambience and landscapes and its abundant rains, which have been rhapsodized thoroughout the ages in poetry and music, can be promoted as a "unique" tourist attraction. Special Tourism Packages have been initiated by the Confederation of Indian Industry to cater to the needs of the monsoon season travellers, as monsoons in India are exquisite. Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttaranchal and Sikkim have also been promoted as Monsoon Tourism attraction by the CII. These schemes will result in the Government getting more foreign exchange and provide employment opportunities to locals, as tourism is the numero uno industry in the world.

The two major Monsoons

The South West Monsoon

Known locally as Kala Varsham, the SW Monsoon starts from May 29th, when the Sun enters the 15th degree of Taurus ( Edava Pathi ). Fierce rains characterise this period which stretches upto the end of sidereal month of Leo or the 16th of September. Then we have the sidereal month of Virgo, which is the No Man's Land between the two major - South West and North East Moonsoons !\

The North East Monsoon

Known locally as Thula Varsham, the NE Monsoon starts from the 17th of October and lasts till 16th of December. This is the Retreating Monsoon, as cold winds, travelling at more than 20 kts, pick up moisture from the Bay of Bengal and pours over peninsular India.

The solar transit of Alpha Scorpi starts today

2010-12-02T00:21:00.000-08:00

Today is the day when the Thrikketta Njattuvela or the solar transit of Alpha Scorpi starts. This is the Retreating Monsoon or the Thula Varsha and this Njattuvela may signal the end of the Monsoon season.

The word Monsoon itself makes one happy. The intoxicating smell of the dry parched earth drenched, the splashing waters makes monsoons the favourite season in Kerala. Kerala has been defined as Tropical Wet by the German climatologist Koppen and Monsoon is a refreshing change from the long summer months, when scorching heat and dust ruled the roost. The farmers get relief from the draught like situation and the promise of the rains which heralds prosperity. Enjoy the monsoons of Kerala under Monsoon Tourism.

Never to be wasted indoors is this enchanting seasons of raindrops and rainbows. Monsoon gives everything to you in fresh as the special season of the year. Monsoon is not all packed up in rain coats. On the contrary, they are fun time. Splashing and swimming in knee deep waters and getting wet are some of the pastimes intended for you by the grace of the monsoons. You can take out an Ayurvedic Vacation during Monsoon. Monsoon is the season recommended by Ayurveda for Rejuvenation Therapy. You can rejuvenate your soul and replenish your body during the Monsoon season. Monsoon is the true season for rejuvenation, when people take ayurvedic remedies, detoxificaton etc to purge the body of toxins and rejuvenate the tissues. Various diseases can be cured, if the body is detoxified and rejuvenated, averrs Ayurveda.

Eco Tourism in Kerala

2010-12-01T21:33:00.000-08:00

There are many number of definitions of Ecotourism,
each highlighting different aspects. It is to be noted
that different parameters emerged in common to all eco
tourism developmental initiatives.

Eco Tourism may be defined as that

Which is based on Nature
Where interpretation and education are important
components
Which is sustainable ecologically
Which benefits the local people.

If any of these components are not satisfied, such a
venture cannot be classified as an Eco Tourism venture !

Tourism, without well thought out plans and managed
programs, can mean the destruction of the natural habitat.
Also the cultural shock concomitant with interaction with
various cultures can also put the locals in danger.

Stipulation of certain standarss and awareness campaigns
amongst tour operators and travel agents reduces considerably
this impact. Eco Tourism,therefore, is considered as a solution
to tourism related environmental problems.

The region of the Western Ghats of Kerala, with its tropical
forest ecocystem, provides the natural advantage for this
division of InternationalTourism. In order to develop the
immense potential of Kerala Tourism, our tourism products
diversification is essential. Hence Western Ghats can be
projected as the Eco Tourism Zone of Kerala. Eco Tourism
adumbrates the concept of sustainability in Tourism. Future
generatoins are protected, as the needs of the now a day
visitor is transformed with Green Education !

The Present Situation

The major tourism destinations can be classified as beaches,
wild life sanctuaries, backwaters, hill stations, and festivals
which represent culture. Kerala will have to upgrade its products
and provide infrastructural facilities. There is no system at
present through which the public can see the forest and have a
lasting,quality experience. The visits to sanctuary, which is
widely practised now, cannot be called as ecotourism. It is
only mass tourism to a sanctuary. A more concentrated strategy,
which is small group oriented and supply driven, is the need of
the hour.

Those in charge should provide education and provision for
learning process for the tourists, as Tourism needs close
monitoring in an ecologically sensitive area.It is imperative
that Tourism be ecologically sustainable. The economic benefit
should benefit the locals to ensure sustainability.

Eco Tourism

2010-12-01T20:38:00.001-08:00

Serene natural habitats are marketed and this is known as Eco Tourism, a branch of International Tourism. Nature and her pristine beauty is highlighted and Tourism without damaging Nature is encouraged.

Natural Philosophy, championed by Goethe and others, point out that Nature is the main efficient cause. While God is still invisible, the only visible manifestation is Nature.

I follow two philosophers this way

It was Nature, Nature, all I heard them say ! ( The Faust - Goethe )

Aimed to provide awareness to the tourists about the wisdom of Nature and the protective functions of the forests, Eco Tourism is educational in nature.

The guide and the tourist visit the naturally beauteous areas for understanding the cultural and natural history of environment, but taking care not to change or alter the integrity of the ecosystem. At the same time, this safe tourism provides economic opportunities to the local inhabitants, who also join in the green Conservation Movement !

It can also be defined as environmentally conscious tourism and not a search of pristine locations

It has to be sustainable with the continous capacity to

Safeguard natural environment, which is the base of tourist attraction

Maintian and provide the quality of the satisfaction of the tourists , thus benefiting the locals in the area.

Climate Change and Astro Meteorology

2010-11-27T01:12:00.001-08:00

Successive draughts, intense cold climate and floods have ravaged Bolivia. Let us hope that Kerala will not go the way of Bolivia !

That Bolivia is going towards a major Food Crisis has been highlighted by the Food and Agricultural Organisation of UN.

16000 cattle, 24000 hectares of wheat, corn fields etc will perish in Bolivia. Bolivia will not be able to absorb this crisis of a high magnitude. One fifth of Bolivia is stll reeling under the impact of Climate Change. FAO warns that all natural calamities except cyclones will have to be faced by Bolivia.

The agriculturists are always affected by Climate Change. Traditional agriculture gets destroyed by intense rains or drastic draughts. The agriculturist lives in debt and dies in debt. He is forced to stop his agriculture or fall into the debt trap !

That which is happening in Bolivia may happen in India and Kerala.

Normally Libra rains start in the evening, drizzle at night and before dawn stops raining. Now the climate patterns have changed and intense rains destroyed 5000 acres of paddy fields this season ! All seeds were destroyed and Keralites had to go to Madras to get the seeds. If the earlier patterns were followed - bright sunny days after the intense downpour - then the water would have drained itself from the paddy fields.

Heat also has changed its patterns. It is now 40 degrees at Palghat and the lowest temperature recorded is 22 degrees. In Nilgiriis, rising heat has created red spiders . 8% crop has been destroyed as a result. Red spiders attack the tea plantations which are devoid of huge trees.

There are many paddy fields in Kerala which does not produce, despite the intense work done by the agriculturists.

In Alleppey Dist, when temperature rose 1.8 degrees, there was a reduction in weight of the produce. The rising temperature during the months of January, February and March was the villain. The rice fields of Trichur and Palghat were also considerably affected.

Pepper cultivation is also affected. Weight also comes down. Also cocoa, tea etc in the highlands. In 2004, cocoa produce came down by 39%. Rubber produce declined by 3.8%. . In Kottyam, the highest temperature recorded was 33.3% and now it is 35% ! Because of intense heat and cold, more funguses made their way into rubber. Cashew has also been affected adversely by Climate Change. There is a drop in the produce by 30%. Kerala, which was first in cashewnut production, is now only fourth !

Palghat Dist, bordering Tamil Nadu, looks like the hot TN !. 41 degrees have been reported as the highest temperature. If you go to Chittoor in Palghat, you will come to know how different Palghat looks than the rest of Kerala. Paddy cultivation has come down in Palghat. Palghat gets more North East Monsoon than South West Monsoon !

Global Warming and change in climate

2010-11-26T01:59:00.001-08:00

Climatologists are of the opinion that the quantity of rains have not come down in Kerala. On the other hand, rainy days have declined. Now there are fierce downpours and sunny interludes. Fierce rains are defined as rains which give 20 cms of rain in one hour. Such fierce rains have increased and sunny days have also increased. This Climate Change is caused by Global Warming.

In 2008, in Kuttanad, such rains created havoc, destroying crops. Such rains continued this year, during both the Monsoons, the North East and the South West. Depressions caused these rains. The snowfall in Idukki caused destruction in cardamom crops. Climatologist view these happenings as unnatural phenomena. During some years, the intensity of the South West Monsoon becomes less. Not only Kerala, but Jharkhand, Chattisghand are also adversely affected.

It is said the dogs need not check the Astro Calender to know which is the sidereal month of Virgo or Kanya. It is also proof that time for procreation and Climate are interlinked. Kanya or the sidereal month of Virgo is the interlude between the two major monsoons and is devoid of rains. Less daylight and more the duration of night characterise this sidereal month. This is the month dogs find it easy to mate. This month stimulates the procreational urge in dogs and they instinctively that this is the month for mating. The cause is attributed to the Bio Clock mechanism in dogs. Female dogs give birth only after 60/70 days. By that time the Kala Varsha or the Sourth West Monsoon will be over. The young ones will get the right atmosphere for growing. That is why Nature gave dogs such a benign month.

This year the Kala Varsha continued during the month of Kanya with the result the procreational cycle of dogs is adversely affected. The dogs ran here and thereby their mating declined ! The physiological processes of dogs is affected by Climate Change. Now dogs that are born have less weight and this phenomenon has been observed in Alsation dogs particularly.

The intensity of the rains have increased with the result fierce rains wreaked havoc on Agriculture. The rainwater does not seep through the earth and hence there are less wells and water reservoirs. Floods have increased considerably.

Another phenomenon is the retreat of the monsoons. In July/ August of 2002, less rains caused draught. It used to be 21% rainfall during June, 33% in July, 28% in August and 18% in Sep.

Now Climate Change has changed all that. More sunny interludes have been reported in July. This phenomenon has increased by 30% due to the the wind waves of the South West Monsoon going to the bottom of the Himalayas.

For the last 15 years, oreographic precipiation or rains in the hilly areas, have declined by 20%. Lesser and lesser amount of rains are reported every year.

Deforestation is the cause for less rains in Peerumedu and Nerumangalam. The mountains do block the cold wind waves coming from the Indian Ocean and cause precipitation.

In short, Global Warming's repercussions on Climate can be drastic. We hope furthur negative reports do not come from the Climatologists !

Global Warming and its effects on Kerala

2010-11-24T20:42:00.001-08:00

There was a CMFRI ( Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute of India ) report that Global Warming affects fish production.

Co2 emissions are more. The Carbon Dioxide combines with ocean water and forms Carbolic Acid. This increases the acidity levels of the ocean water and affects fish.

The Sea Surface Temperature (SST) goes up due to GW and this affects fish. Fish tend to go to colder areas.

The SST has gone up. In 1962, the SST was 28.3 and in 2007, it is 28.94 !

In fact, the quanity of fish has not come down. It is because of the burgeoning population - 1.2 billion in India and more consumption, that it seems to be so. Some species of fish disappeared. Some moved away to other areas.

In Kerala, from 1960 to 1984, fish production increased threefold due to technology, more education and good nets. But then after 1990, it has not gone up. After 1992, there was not much tuna catch. Mackerels catch also declined significantly. Sardines catch only increased marginally.

Catfish production also declined. Catfish has moved from Trichur but is available in Calicut District. Sharks also have disappered from the Trichur coast.

The heat above the surface of the ocean will be more before the South West Monsoon and will come down during the SW Monsoon. For the last 41 years, a different phenomenon has been observed. The temperature during the Monsoon season was 27.16 and now it is 28. 46!

Sardines are available on the Kerala coast after the Monsoons. Mackerel is available during the monsoons. The difference in temperature is responsible for this.

The difference in temperature is the cause for the change in habitat for fish. Ghee sardines and macekerels, which are found in less deep waters, move towards colder areas when they experience heat. There are also fish which move towards deeper waters. Mackerels which were never caught in deep waters before. are now available in deep waters. Different types of fish survive in different temperatures and GW changes the fish production equation !

The food which is eaten by the fish is also affected by the rise in temperature. Phytoplankton is the main food of fish. The Co2 is absorbed by Phytoplankton and food is prepared. The rising temperature destroys the Phytoplankton thus affecting the food of the fish ! Fish cannot survive due to the destruction of the Phytoplankton ! Some small plants grow rapidly due to the increasing heat, which cannot be eaten by fish ! During some seasons, phytoplanktons grow rapidy and gets destroyed. This also affects fish !

That the ocean becomes orange and red has been reported. This is due to certain phytoplanktons spreading. Some species of fish become more and some less. Poisionous plants become more and this adversely affects fish !

Let us hope GW will not devastate furthur !

G W has also affected astro meteorological patterns. Kerala received 56% more rains during this Monsoon season. Intense rains destroys crops and agri lands were indundated.

Rains lash Kerala as Sun transits Delta Scorpi

2010-11-22T02:17:00.001-08:00

Meteorology may say it is a depression in the Bay of Bengal called La Nina which is responsible for the rains, but to those well versed in Astro Meteorology, it is the Sun's transit of Scorpio and the constellation of Delta Scorpi, which is the cause, as heavy rains lashed Trichur. From 0500 PM it was raining till 1100 PM, when I went to sleep.

According to Meteorology, La Nina is a coupled ocean-atmosphere phenomenon of El Nino, as a part of the El Nino Southern Oscillation Climate pattern. La Nina is defined as the dialectial opposite of El Nina !

These depressions happen only during the Monsoon season, when the Sun transits the constellations from Eta Tauri to Alpha Scorpi ! So Astro Meteorology is right !

Why do these depression not happen during the summer season?

Climate Change, triggered by Global Warming, is creating havoc throughout the world. Sea levels rose by 1.8 mms from 1961 to 2003. All snowy mountains are melting. Co2 levels are increasing. Forest fires increased. When hot air creates lightning, forest fires are more. More cyclones and thunderstorms. Extreme climatic patterns are produced. More floods and more draughts than usual.

Spontaneous Tourism

2010-09-23T21:27:00.000-07:00

Many people do not how to start, when it comes to travelling. They think that travel takes a lot of time and money and waits for the time when they can afford to see the world. The time is NOW, with Spontaneous Tourism. Travel expert Jamie Samans gives you a complete course on both domestic and overseas travel, from frequent flyer programs to the Chinatown bus network. Spontaneous Tourism is your armchair travel agent, providing you with all the advice and information you need to book that fabulous trip and enjoy every minute of your time.

Ayurveda is Wisdom

2010-09-15T21:02:00.001-07:00

Ayurveda evolved from Atharva Veda and the Upanishads ( Atharva vedasu upanishadsu pragulpannah ). It is the Art of Being, the Science of Life. Ayur means Life and Veda means Knowledge. It is the oldest healthcare system in the world.

Who has not heard about Ayurveda ? So great is this Science of Life that almost all clincis, parlours and resorts have" Ayurvedic massage", "Ayurvedic Spa", " Ayurvedic treatments" etc attached to them. Despite its immense popularity, the concept of Ayurveda remains vague amidst all. The world's oldest health care system is Ayurveda. It is important for eveyone to have basic info about Ayurveda for his good health.\

What is Ayurveda? is a superb book by Dr Shashi Patwardan. One becomes familiar with the rudiments of Ayurveda. You become familiar with Home Remedies !

Enlightening Books

2010-09-15T17:33:00.000-07:00

Do you feel stressed out ? Millions feel so. There is no need to panic, as there is a technique to heal your mind and strengthen your body. The technique is Yoga. You many ask How ? With a combined strategy of yoga stretches and meditation. You can feel the stress melt away as you practise the ancient art of Yoga and Meditation to help bring your emotional well beinto into balance and keep your body fit at the same time. Yoga has natural healing properties that can alleviate the symptoms of most common ailments. " A Beginners Guide to Yoga and Meditation " is a gem from Dr Shashi Patwardhan. A must for the novice.

Dr Shashikant's " A Practical Guide to Yoga " breaks the mold of all the other Yoga instruction books you have heard and read aloud, presenting proven steps to help you achieve Self Actualisation.

The Global Freshwater Crisis

2010-08-15T03:43:00.004-07:00

The vata (airy) planet Saturn in Virgo has precipitated a Water Crisis. Let
us see what are the solutions. ( Yesterday Mumbai reported a severe water
crisis, like Hyderabad. More bad news are coming in ).

Water is only a finite resource, even though it is universally assumed that
global supply is infinite. Only 2.5 % of the global supply is freshwater.
The rest is seawater, inacessible in ground water, ice caps and soi. This
supply is limited.

Rainfall is only renewable source of freshwater and per year the global
supply is just 50,000 cubic km. Per year global population is increasing by
85 million. Hence the availability of freshwater per head is fast
decreasing. The whole planet is overpopulated, with more than 6.5 billion
people.

That limited source of freshwater is polluted, diverted and depleted by
foolish humans. ( " Lord, what fools these mortals be", said Shakespeare ).
More than one billon people lack access to safe, drinking water. UN says 31
countries face water stress and scarcity. The water stress countries are
UAE, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, India, Israel, Mexico etc.

By 2025, when the earth will be populated by an additional 2.5 billion
people, 70% will be living in conditions of serious water shortage and 30%
will be living in conditions of acute water scarcity.

A great warning has been given by the World Resources " The world's
thirst for water is likely to become one of the most pressing resource
issues of the 21st century. In some cases, water withdrawals are so high,
relative to supply, that surface water supplies are literally shrinking and
groundwater levels are being depleted faster than they can be replenished by
precipitation".

In the Arab world, use of ground is three times than groundwater recharge.
Saudi is running towards depletion in the next 50 years. Africa's aquifers
are non-recharging and the current depletion is estimated at 10 million
cubic meters. Water tables are falling everywhere in India. Mexico is water
scarce. In Bangkok overpumping has taken its toll. Northern China has eight
regions of water scarcity. Beijing suffers from a massive water crisis.

Reports from Mumbai that the city has only water for a month, if there are
no rains. Cause for alarm and despondency

Water Cycle or the Hydrologic Cycle

Due to transpiration and evaporation, water molecules form clouds and rains
fall to the earth as precipitation.

This transipration and evaporation normally comes from plants, rivers,
lakes, lagoons, water basins or water reservoirs. If the earth's surface is
paved over, then there will be reduced water to evaporate.
Divesting the earth of wells, lagoons, lakes, rivers which are water
reservoirs can only mean that there will be less evapotranspiration and
hence less precipitation or rains !

The causative factors for Water Bankruptcy

The destruction of the natural habitat
Destruction of water reservoirs like wells, ponds etc
Destruction of forest, flora and fauna
Groundwater mining
Contamination of Aquifers
Massive urbanisation
Diminishing water capital
Earth's hot stains ( dried up regions ) contributing to the impasse.

Astro-Meteorology I

2010-08-15T03:43:00.003-07:00

Yesterday, rains hit the southern districts of Kerala. But no rain in Trichur or adjoining areas.

The truth of Global Warming has hit me. Also Climate Change. Also the World Water Crisis !

Rains are rare, even in Kerala, a state fashioned by the rains, where the landscape architecture is done by Nature Herself !

Venus, the watery planet, moves over to Gemini, to the 12th in India’s horoscope. It augurs rains, but how much ?

The hot sidereal months of Kumbham( Aquarius ) and Meenam ( Pisces ) are normal in Kerala. Now we are facing Meda choodu ( the heat waves of Aries ) and there will some reduction of heat when Edavam ( Taurus ) takes over, from 15th May.

Astrologically, Edava Pathi, the last 15 days of the Sun traversing Taurus, is full of rains. Last years, rains were less even in Edava Pathi.

Kerala, normally, is blessed by two rainy seasons, Edava Pathi ( the last half of Taurus ) and Thula Varsham ( when the Sun traverses the 30 degrees of Libra ). Kerala receives rains thrice the national average.

Fierce rains characterise Thiruvathira Jnattuvela, when the Sun traverses the constellation of Aridra, for 14 days and Punartham Jnattuvela, when the Sun traverses the constellation of Punarvasu, for 14 days. Also Makiryam Jnattuvela, when the Sun traverses the constellation of Mrigasira.

Now Kerala has more or less a semi arid, parched look. The rains can change all that. But Global Warming has affected Kerala. Climate Change has already occurred. Water Crisis is here to stay !

The Vedic seers gave prime importance to rains. This is indicated by their prayer

May there be plenty of rains and may the earth become fertile.

( Kale Varshe thu parjanya Prithvi Shasya Shalinee ).

Tomorrow ( 15/05/2010), the Sun moves over to Taurus, thus ending the summer season of Kerala. The summer season is more or less from Dhanus ( Sagittarius ) to Mesha ( Aries ). These five months are reasonably hot. Kumbham ( Aquarius ) and Meenam ( Pisces ) are very hot. Now Mesha ( Aries ) has also become very hot due to Global Warming and Climate Change.

From Edavam ( Taurus ) to Vrischika ( Scorpio ), we have relatively less hot months. Rains are severe during Edava ( Taurus ), Mithuna ( Gemini ) and Kataka ( Cancer ). Then rains become less during the months of Simha ( Leo ) and Kanya ( Virgo ), but still there will be intermittent rains. Rains peak again during Thula ( Libra ) and moderate rains will be there during Vrischika ( Scorpio ) till the summer season takes over.

There are the seasonal cycles of Kerala but then Global Warming and Climate Change are changing all seasons !

Indian Farmers do the planting basing on the Vedic Astronomical Calender. The knowledge of sowing and reaping. Such a subject is Bio Dynamics, which is part of Organic Farming and Anthroposophy.

Here is the Vedic Astrologic Calender

Date Month ( Malayalam ) Sanskrit English

14 Apr - 14 May Medam Mesha Aries

15 May - 14 Jun Edavam Vrishabha Taurus

15 Jun - 16 Jul Mithunam Mithuna Gemini

17 Jul- 16 Aug Karkatakam Kataka Cancer

17 Aug - 16 Sep Chingam Simha Leo

17 Sep - 17 Oct Kanni Kanya Virgo

18 Oct - 16 Nov Thulam Thula Libra

17 Nov - 15 Dec Vrischikam Vrischika Scorpio

16 Dec - 13 Jan Dhanu Dhanus Sagittarius

14 Jan - 12 Feb Makaram Makara Capricorn

13 Feb - 14 Mar Kumbham Kumbha Aquarius

15 Mar- 13 Apr Meenam Meena Pisces

There can be a one day variation, because of Leap Year.

Tourist and potential realty centers in Kerala

2010-08-15T03:43:00.001-07:00

The Munambam Estuary, a Tourism Spot

The Munambam beach is a beautiful place to behold. On the west we have the Arabian Sea, a mouth of the sea on the north and the “Life Line of Kerala”, the Periyar River on the east. This estuary is the place where the Periyar River, 244 km long, flows into the sea.

Munambam Beach is also known as Muziris Golden Beach. It is the farthest end of the famous Cherai beach. On the north west side, you can see the Munakkal beach. On the north we have Azheekode in Trichur Dist. The Munambam Azheekode point is the point where Trichur and Ernakulam Districts meet. You can cross the mouth of the sea on the north by Junkar or boat. Just five minutes from Munambam ( Kochi ) to Azheekod ( Trichur ) !

You can sit and enjoy the views, watching the local fishermen fish in their canoes and colourful boats. Photographers find Munambam enchanting, as the glorious sunset is indeed inspiring !

The realty potential of Kochi & Trivandrum

Amongst the 50 cities identified by JLLM as high fliers, Kochi and Trivandrum are from Kerala.

There are reasons for pointing out to these Kerala cities. Both will be having ports. Once the Vallarpadam ICTT becomes operational, Kochi realty will grow by leaps and bounds. Same thing will happen in Trivandrum when the Deep Port ICTT becomes operational.

ICTT will be the second port of Kochi. The first is on Willingdon Island, an artificial island built by Lord Willingdon, the erstwhile governor of Madras. The harbour engineer Robert Bristow played the main role in developing this island and the first building on the island was owned by him. The first liner arrived on 9 Mar 1935 on this island. A port hostel was arranged to accomodate the passengers and this hostel became the Malabar Hotel. Now this port has become an e-port.

Vallarpadam will be the second port of Kochi and Kochi now joins Bombay in having two ports. Hence the importance of Kochi.

Seaports accelerate development and these two cities will be the main economic centers of Kerala. Realty prices will rise. We are talking about 5 years from now on. Not now, when realty is in a state of recession.

There are other properties which have potential, in other parts of the world.

Costa Rica Property holds good potential. Forget not New Bombay, Bombay, Surat, Vizag and other cities which hold equally good promise.

Article by G Kumar, astrologer, writer & programmer of www.eastrovedica.com

He has 25 years psychic research experience in the
esoteric arts. He gives free tips at www.eastrovedica.net and stock market
investment advice can be got at www.stockmarketastrology.com

Astro Meterology II

2010-08-15T03:42:00.006-07:00

After three days of dark clouds, lightning and rainfall, Kerala is back to normal.

Rains are expected to accelerate after Edava Pathi, which starts on May 29, when the Sun transits the 15th degree of Sidereal Taurus.

Jupiter in watery Pisces, Mars in Leo and Venus in Gemini should bring rains to Kerala.

Monsoons have been defined as sea breezes or wind systems. A wind system which reverses direction seasonally, blowing from the southwest for six months and from northeast for six months. Its extreme examples are in South Asia and Africa. Winds which influence climatic seasons, with concomitant rainfalls !

Annual temperature trends over sea and land are the causes of the monsoons. Monsoons normally blow from cold regions towards warmer regions. They blow from the sea towards land during summer and from land towards sea during winter.

Of all monsoons, the South West Monsoon is the largest. This Asian monsoon is the atmospheric response to the shift of the overhead Sun, from the Tropic of Capricorn in December to the Tropic of Cancer in June.

India lies exactly on the Tropic of Cancer, the apparent position of the Sun at the summer solstice. It is 23 degrees and 27 minutes ( which is the maximum declination of the Sun ) north of the Equator. India also lies on the equator. Pakistan lies north and is more drier than India. Pak does not get these monsoons.

Edava Pathi, the South West Monsoon

In June, Sun is almost at the Tropic of Cancer and northen part of the Indian subcontinent becomes very hot. During summer, the northern and central side of India and the Thar desert heat up considerably, causing a low pressure area over central and northern Indian subcontinent. The Indian Ocean sends moisture laden winds, to fill this void. These moisture rich winds move towards mighty Himalayas, creating wind blowing storm clouds towards the subcontinent. Himalayas block these winds from entering Central Asia, thus propelling them to rise. The clouds gain immense altitude, temperature drops sharply and thus precipitation occurs !

Thula Varsham, the North East Monsoon

In Dec, Sun is almost at the Tropic of Capricorn ( 23 degrees 27 minutes south of the Equator ) and the Indian Ocean becomes hot and the northern land mass of India becomes cool. Hence winds rush from the cold North to the South . The cold winds blow from the northen subcontinent, sweeping down on the Himalayas and the Indo- Gangetic plains, towards the comparitively hot Indian Ocean. This is known as the North East Monsoon or rather the Retreating Monsoon and this causes Thula Varsham, the rains caused by the Sun’s ingress into sidereal Libra. These cold winds from the North pick up some moisture from the Bay of Bengal and rains hit Sri Lanka & India. Madras receives rains and 60% of the rains received by Tamil Nadu is from this monsoon.

The eastern parts of the Western Ghats do not get the SW Monsoon and hence places like Madras do not get its blessings. Madras gets the North East Monsoon in Oct-Nov, after Karkyadi ( when the Sun enters the first degree of Cancer ), when the Sun retreats South ( Dakshinayana ), when the northern side of the Indian subcontinent becomes cool and the cool winds precipitate the North East Monsoon.

Physiologists like Dr Walter Cannon ( The Wisdom of the Body ) talked about self regulating mechanisms or homeostatic control systems in the body physiologic. Arent these monsoons the homeostatic or self regulating control systems of Divine Nature ?

One is reminded of a verse from Longfellow

Nothing that is shall perish utterly
But shall revive again
As clouds restore through rain
The exhalations of the land and the sea !

Astrology, the mother of all sciences?

2010-08-15T03:42:00.003-07:00

Solomon saith ‘ There is no new thing upon the earth. All novelty is but oblivion”. Meaning that all new inventions are reflections of thngs heavenly or that the New Science is nothing but Old Science !

Bacon in his essays said ” There is an abstruse astrologer that saith; were it not for two things that are constant, no human being would live.

1) the fixed stars ever maintain their distance from one another and never come closer to one another nor move furthur asunder

2) the diurnal motion perpetually keepeth time ”

Modern Geography talks about the Tropic of Capricorn and the Tropic of Cancer. From which Old Science do these terms Cancer and Capricorn come from ?

Climatology or Meteorology is based on Astronomy. The South West Monsoon was known to Ancient Science as Edava Pathi and the North East Monsoon as Thula Varsham. The Ecliptic of Modern Astronomy was Krantee Vrittam, the Zodiac was Bha or Jyothis Chakram, the Celestial Sphere was Khagola, the Celestial Equator was Vishu Vat Vritta and the Celestial Meridian was Nadi Vritta. The Eastern Celestial Horizon was Udaya Lagna and the Western Celestial Horizon was Astha Lagna

Sun’s day became Sunday. Moon’ day became Monday. Mars or Tiv’s day became Tuesday. Mercury or Woten’s day became Wednesday. Jupiter or Thor’s day became Thursday. Venus or Freya’s day became Friday and Saturn’s day became Saturday. From which Ancient Science do these days of the week come from ?

When a student graduates from a University, he is awarded a degree. Where does this word ” Degree” come from, if not from the 360 degrees of the Zodiac ?

I was surprised to read that Meteorology, the modern science, forecast that the South West Monsoon would start from May 30 onwards. May 29 was the day when the Sun entered the 15th degree of Taurus, thus heralding Edava Pathi. !

Celestial Gravity was known to the ancient savants. Aryabhata postulated that the Sun is at the focus of the ellipse and that all planets revolve around the Sun due to Celestial Gravity. ( Soorya Jagatah chakshu guruthvakarshan ).

Were does the word ” Martial ” come from. Of course, from Mars !

Where does the word ” Venereal” come from. From Venus Veneris, which is Venus !

Where does the word ” Jovial ” come from ? From Jove or Jupiter !

Where does the word ” Saturnine” come from ? From Saturn !

Where does the word ” Mercurial” come from ? From Mercury !

Where does the word ” Lunacy” come from ? From Luna or Moon.

Solar derives from Sol or Sun. The word ” Heliocentric” is derived from Helios or Heli ( Sankrit for Sun ).

The word ” Nodal ” is derived from the Nodes, the Nodes of the Moon ( Rahu and Ketu ). The Nodal Cycle is 18 years.

Rains which were sporadic during Karthika and Rohini Njattuvelas have strengthened from Makiryam Njattuvela, which began from 8th June onwards. Njattuvelas are Sun’s transits of the 27 constellations which tenant the Ecliptic.

To the ancients, Perihelion was Sheegrocha and Aphelion was Mandoccha. Trignometric reductions were Jya Samskaras. Reduction to Ecliptic was Parinathi Samskara . Retrogression was Vakra and Acceleration was Athichara. Celestial Longitude was Sphuta and Celestial Latitude was Vikshepa. Sin was Bhujajya, cos was Kotijya and tan was Sparshajya !

So Solomon was right. There is nothing new upon the earth and all novelty is but oblivion !

Was Dr BV Raman wrong when he said that Astrology is the mother of all sciences ?

Rainy Solar Transit of Lamda Orionis ( Makiryam Njattuvela ) strikes Kerala

2010-08-15T03:42:00.001-07:00

Fierce rains lash Kerala. It is now raining heavily, here in Trichur. Rains started at 1130 AM and are now continuing at 0400 PM. (110610)

We had indicated in our columns that rains will accelerate after Makiryam, Thiruvathira, Punartham and Pooyam Njattuvelas . These four Njattuvelas are considered to be fierce, compared to other Njattuvelas. Markiryam Njattuvela started on the 8th of June.

Kerala receives almost 2500 mm rainfall from the South West Monsoon and almost 500 mm from the North East Monsoon.

Average monthly rainfall in Kerala in mm

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
14 16 36 110 252 653 687 404 252 270 158 45

The Ancient Seers prayed for rains, rains which will liberate us from the blistering heat, rains which will water our plants and trees, rains which will give us the much needed water.

May the rulers be just
May the world be happy
May there be plenty of rains
May the earth become fertile
May the good be fearless
May people become angerless !

Swasthi prajabhyam paripalayantham
Nyayena Margena Maheem Maheesa
Go brahmanebhya shubhamasthu nithyam
Loka samastha sukhino bhavanthu
Kale Varshe thu parjanya
Prithvee sasya salinee
Lokoyam kshobha rahitha
Sajjana santhu nirbhaya

Now at 0730 PM on 120610, it is still raining. We have had 30 hours of incessant rain. The water levels in the reservoirs were abysmally low and Kerala Electricity Board was worried two days before. There was only water to generate 8 millions units. ( Kerala’s power is 99% hydroelectric ). The discharge from the heavens was providential. Now this glorious rain must have boosted the water levels. Thank God, no power cuts !

We are still watching the climate. Just to see whether Global Warming has effected a change. We got only 1000 mm rainfall last year. This year we are bound to get more. The 825 km Malabar Coast, from Mumbai to Cape Comorin, gets maximum rainfall and will Global Warming affect this bounty adversely? Let us watch and see !

Nature Divine is homeostatic, Nature is liberal, giving us everything at the correct time. Does She not give us watery fruits like cucumber and water melons during the hot summer season? She knows what is best for us. Natural Philosophy ( Sankhya ) postulates that the main efficient cause is Nature ( pradhanam prakritim prahuh ). Goethe, Paracelsus, Companella, Kapila, Bruno etc were all natural philosophers.

Nature is the Main Cause
For the Causal Equation !
Purusha ( Self ) is He who enjoys
Dejection and Elation.

Karya Karana Karthruthve
Hetu Prakriti uchyathe
Purusha Sukha Dukhanam
Bhoktritvam Hetur uchyathe ( The Holy Geetha )

“To the philosopher, Nature and the Divine are one Being, acting by necessity and by inexorable Law ” averred Spinoza.

What Alexander Pope said about Providence

(Who finds not Providence all good and wise
Alike in what it gives and what denies ?)

should be said about Nature.

Who finds not Nature all good and wise
Alike in what it gives and what denies?

And Wordsworth confirmed Her fidelity

“Nature never did betray the heart that loved Her.”

Astro Meteorology and Economics

2010-08-15T03:41:00.007-07:00

What has the nation’s GDP growth got to do with the monsoon ? Everything !

The India Meterological Dept is considering declaring the monsoon to be a ” good monsoon “, in sharp contrast with the 2009 monsoon, which was more or less a failure.

A good monsoon means rising water levels in the reservoirs and dams. More power. It will raise farm output, control inflation ( particularly food inflation, which was 17.6% ) and spur economic growth.

60% of arable land is rain-fed. Hence monsoon showers are critical to soya bean, edible oil, sugarcane, rice etc. In India, the Monsoon is the real Finance Minister !

Because of the bad monsoon of 2009, Indian agri growth rose only .2%. On the other hand, this year’s monsoon will trigger 2.5 % agri growth and 8.5 % GDP growth. If India has sufficient infrastructure, the GDP growth will be more than 10%. A 4% agri growth forecast, many feel, will be too ambitious. Also a double digit GDP forecast !

Astro Meteorology is right again. The South West Monsoon hit Kerala on May 19th, from Karthika Njattuvela ( Sun’s transit of Eta Tauri ) onwards, slightly ahead of schedule. Sporadic rains characterised both Karthika and Rohini Njattuvelas ( Sun’s transit of Alpha Tauri ). Rains accelerated after Makiryam Njattuvela ( Sun’s transit of Lamda Orionis ). From 11th, 1130 AM onwards it has been raining incessantly. It is raining heavily now ( 13062010, 0300 PM ). There were non stop rains for 30 hours.

Tamil Nadu never used to get the South West Monsoon. But this time she got it ! There were rains in Bangalore and Surat.

As Thiruvathira Njattuvela ( Sun’s transit of Alpha Orionis ) will take over from 22nd June onwards, we expect the IMD to declare this monsoon as an ” excellent monsoon”.

Farmers use Thiruvathira Njattuvela for planting seeds, particularly beans and pepper.

Timely onset of monsoon has raised hopes of better production. The sugar output will be around 18.5 million tonnes this year.

As the Summer Season can be destructive ( more than 100 people died due to sunstroke ) monsoons can also be destructive. Fishermen are warned not to venture into the sea. The sea has attacked some 50 houses in Chavakkad Beach. Seven fishing boats were devoured by the sea. Winds at 60 km per hour are lashing Kerala. Those who are living on the low lying areas of Kerala are warned. On the positive side, rivers are overflowing, paddy fields are overflowing and wells, ponds, and lakes are full of water.

Edava Pathi & Its Two Branches

As the Sun enters the 15th degree of Taurus or Edava Pathi, the Arabian Sea Branch of the South West Monsoon first lash the Western Ghats, the rainforests of India, normally around May 29. The Western Ghats of coastal Kerala becomes the first place to receive it. This branch moves northwards along the Western Ghats, with precipitation on the coastal areas. ( coastal Kerala, coastal Karnataka and coastal Maharashtra . Bombay, on coastal Maharashtra, receives it on June 10th ). As the winds do not cross the Western Ghats, the eastern areas of the Ghats do not receive this precipitation.

At around the same time, the Bay of Bengal Branch of the S W Monsoon, picks up moisture laden particles from the Bay of Bengal and moves towards North East India, flowing over the Bay of Bengal. Immense rain mark the entry of these winds at the Eastern Himalayas. Shillong, on the southern slopes of the mighty Himalayas, is one of the most moist places in India. The winds then turn west, travelling over the Indo Gangetic plains at a rate of 7/14 days per state, showering its benign precipitation all along its way.

In the heavens, Venus, the water planet, moved to watery Cancer on 09 June. Jupiter in watery Pisces also augurs well for rains. Last year, Jupiter was in the Saturnine ( hence airy ) sign of Capricorn, which never indicated rains !

Rejuvenative Therapy in the Monsoon Season

2010-08-15T03:41:00.003-07:00

Monsoons may be the primary cause of Monsoon Tourism in Kerala.

During the monsoon seasons, particularly during the months of Mithuna ( Gemini ) and Kataka ( Cancer ), the body becomes weak and this is an excellent time to take in Ayurvedic medicines.

I am taking in Chyavana Prasam, a rejuvenative and restorative. It is an Anti Aging Medicine, enriched with the essence of gooseberries, the great source of Vitamin C.

Aphrodisiacs like Mucuna Pruriens ( Naikarana parippu ) and Withania Somnifera ( Aswagandha, the Indian ginseng ), can be taken in. This process is called Vajeekarana in Ayurveda. It makes men regain their lost Sapta Dhatus or the Seven Tissue Elements and makes men as fit as horses !

In his book ” Quantum Healing”, Dr Chopra says ” During the coming years, Ayurveda will blossom”.

During Monsoons, the digestive power weakens and vata is aggravated. Moderation in diet is what the doctor orders. Bitter, pungeant and astringent food should be taken in, along with rice and wheat. It is better to avoid excessive sex. It is time to go in for oil bath and massage. Water should be boiled and cooled. Avoid sleeping during daytime. Honey can be taken in, as it is an excellent medicine.

The triune humours of Ayurveda, Vata, Pitta and Kapha( bile, wind and phlegm) should be kept in equilibrium as their disequilibrium is disease. To keep these doshas or humours in balance, Ayurveda prescribes unique diet ( Ahara ), a distinct mode of living ( Vihara ) and routine living ( Karya ). This will help you in coping with the stresses and strains of the changing seasons.

Kerala is one of the states identified by the Center for Monsoon Tourism. Mainly because Kerala gets around 3000 mm rains in three Monsoons. Even the summer rains ( Summer Monsoon ) bring in about 300 mm of rains , the North East Monsoon brings in 500 mm and the South West 2200 mm !

Not blessed by high education alone
Tiny Kerala is graced by three Monsoons !

unnatha vidyagunathal sampannam
Kochu Keralam Thri mazhayal samriddham !

Monsoons may be the primary cause of Monsoon Tourism. But the secondary cause is Ayurveda !

Rejuvenative Therapy

Aswagandha Rasayana is a very effective medicine for regaining vitality. Aswagandha is the Indian ginseng and is used as an aphrodisiac.

Rejuvenative Therapy is called Rasayana Chikitsa and there are lots of benefits attributed to Rasayanas. Gift of the gab or the divine gift of articulate speech, beauty, virility - all these are gained by the Rasayanas ( Vag siddhim vrishatham kantim labhathe cha rasayanath ). Aswagandha Rasayana I used to take in during the months of Mithuna ( Gemini ) and Kataka ( Cancer ), known as the medicinal months of Ayurveda.

I used to apply Narasimha Oil ( a medical concoction based on coconut oil ) on my scalp, which used to make the head cool and give a gloss to hair. Another good cool oil which can be used on the scalp is Kanjunyadi thailam, which is good for hair.

Senescence

Senescence has been attributed to loss of Ojas. Ojas is the essence of the Seven Tissue Elements or the Sapta Dhatus. Ojas is the bio juice which sustains life.

Loss of Lustre or Ojas Kshaya has been attributed to

Anger ( Krodhath )
Grief ( Shokath )
Workaholism - ( Sramath )
Tension ( Dukhath )
Mental ( Dhyanath )
Trauma ( Abhinganath )
Dhatu loss ( Kshayath )

To regain Ojas or Lustre, one should take in life promoting medicines, milk and meat juice. Prohibition of activities which leads to mental tension ( Pariharya Visheshath Manasa Dukha Hethu ) also is the need of the hour. Foods, sweet in taste, cold lighter and easily digestible, viscous and which promotes health should be taken in.

The Sun’s transit of Lamda Orionis ( Makiryam Njattuvela ) is in full swing now. There were fierce rains for half an hour ( 0900 to 0930 AM, 19062010 ) and it is still raining now. Now is the time to take in Ayurvedic medicines and increaseDhatu Pushti ( strengthen the seven tissue elements ) and enhance Ojas ( Bio Juice )

Vishu, the Planting Season of Kerala

2010-08-15T03:40:00.003-07:00

We have said that Vishu 8 or the Sun’s entry into the eighth degree of sidereal Aries, is the time for the farmers to sow.

Vishu or the solar ingress into Aries, is celebrated all over Kerala. This is the dawn of a good era, as it marks the end of the hot seasons of Kumbha ( Aquarius ) and Meena ( Pisces ). Temperature touching 43 degrees is disconcerting. Vishu is the heralder of the two monsoons, the South West and the North East.

The Vedic Calender is astro-meteorological and the farmers know when to sow and when to reap. So the best time to sow is in Medam or Mesha or Aries. Anything planted after this date will fructify, as the Edava Pathi or the South West Moon takes over in June and the Thula Varsham or the North East Monsoon takes over in Oct-Nov.

In traditional farming, plants and trees need watering on alternative days. Now both monsoons ensure that plants and trees will be watered by Nature !. Hence the green landscape engineering done by Nature makes Kerala beauteous !

When the Sun reaches its maximum declination at 23 degrees 27 mins South, at the Tropic of Capricorn, ( the end of Dakshinayana ), the Indian Ocearn becomes hot & the northern places of the Indian subcontinent becomes cool. Then we find the phenomenon of cool winds condensing to form clouds, picking up moisture laden winds from the Bay of Bengal, sweeping down on the Himalayas and the Indo Gangetic plains and then pouring over peninsular India. Kerala also gets these rains and hence the South West Monsoon which ends in September is replaced by the North East Monsoon and this rainy season or watering by Nature continues till Dhanus, the 15th of December ! Hence the tourists find Kerala enchanting, because of the greeen landscape architecture effectuated by Mother Nature !

India is an agrarian economy, dependent heavily on the monsoons. In 1895, the rains never came and India experienced drought and famine. The monsoons can also be destructive. Trees are uprooted, cables smashed, houses destroyed as a result of poor infrastructure. In 2008, our paddy fields were flooded due to heavy rains and the nearby inhabitants had to be evacuated. Despite its potential for destruction, monsoons are generally welcomed, as it liberate the natives from the blistering heat of Kumbha (Aquarius ) and Meena ( Pisces ).

Vishu marks the beginning of Vasanta Rithu, the first of the six seasons.

Farmers in Kerala say that

the seeds sown on Aswathi Jnattuvela ( the Sun’s transit of the first 13 degrees of Aries )
and mango seeds sown on Bharani Jnattuvela ( the Suns’s transit of the constellation of Bharani )

will fructify.

The best time for planting cocounut trees is on Patham Udayam, the Tenth Rising of the Sun, when Sun enters the tenth degree of Aries.

So Vishu is an agricultural festival, based on the Wisdom of the Heavens and not a religious festival !

The Farmer's Song, a revealed science ( Krishi Geetha )

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The International Astronomical Union had standardised all the constellations of the Sidereal Zodia and the exact boundaries fixed in 1930. . But none of the Indian names figure in the list of the IAU, despite the fact that India had one of the earliest astronomical cultures.

That the ancient Babylonians, the Hindus and the Egyptians had deep and independent knowlege of the Heavens is an undisputed fact. The names of fabled heroes, animals and deities were assigned to the constellations. Those who followed the " Star of Bethlehem" had come from these pagan cultures. The ascendency of Sirius marked the resuscitation of the Nile, after a long dry spell. Edava Pathi transformed the hot, parched landscape of Kerala into a lush green Paradise, a tropical wet system, as per the German climatologist Koppen !

The Indian system is far more comprehensive. It deals with the Sidereal Zodiac, which begins from 0 degrees of Beta Arietis ( Aswini ) and ends at the 360th degree of Zeta Piscium ( Revathi ). As the Sun moves roughly one degree per day, the solar transit of a 30 degree Sign is 30 days and a constellation is 13.33 days ( as the constellation is 13 degrees and 20 minutes ). A Njattuvela is a solar transit of a constellation of 13 degrees 20 minutes and hence the duration is 13.33 days.

The Malayalam Era is known as Kolla Varsham and it was compiled by a man from Kollam. It is derived from the Ursa Major Cycle ( The Saptharshi Yuga ). The Ursa Major makes a retrograde circuit of the Zodiac and it stays in a constellation for 100 years, known as the Ursa Major Cycle. Hence the Ursa Major Cycle is 2700 years ( 27*100).

All other calenders deal only with the 12 signs of the Tropical Zodiac .

The book "The Farmer's Song' , Krishi Geetha deals with the effects of the solar transits of constellatons. Legend has it that Parasurama, one of the ten incarnations of the Lord, after destroying the tyrants, was seized with remorse. In order to expiate for his sins, he distributed the lands he had conquered to spiritual people. In higher states of Consciousness, he received higher instructions how to make the land fertile, how to plant, when to plant and when to reap, according to the solar transits. The result of his great pyshic research was ' The Farmer's Song" , the Krishi Geetha. This is a revealed science, like all Vedic sciences.

The Fivefold Ephemeris, the Panchanga

The Ephemeris is fivefold

Vaara, Day of the Week, named after the Seven Revolving Heavens
Thaara, the Star, the lunar transit of a constellation
Thidhi, the Lunation, 12 degrees
Karana, 6 degrees or Half Lunation
Nithya Yoga, longitude of Sun + longitude of Moon

Those who follow Astrology follow the Panchanga, which gives all astro information. For corporate mergers, weddings and other auspicious events, the Panchanga is used. The Panchangas use the Indian calculation of Nazhikas ( 24 minutes ) and Vinazhikasa ( 24 seconds ). The Zodiac Software converts these Nazhikas into hours and minutes.

Thaara is the Lunar transit of a constellation while Njattuvela is the solar. The Panchanga and the Astro Calender gives all info about these transits.

The Zodiac Software computes all these transits. We had given the formulae for generating the Panchanga and the Astro Calender.

The six Seasons of the Astro Calender are Vasanta ( Aries, Taurus), Greeshma ( Gemini, Cancer ), Varsha ( Leo, Virgo ), Sarat ( Libra, Scorpio ), Hemanta ( Sagittarius, Capricorn) and Sisira ( Aquarius, Pisces ). Thau Dau Rithu - Two months make a Rithu.

During Makam Njattuvela, Sesame can be planted ( Maghathinte mukhathu ellu erinjal kutathinte mukhathu kaanaam )
Never plant anything during Pooyam Njattuvela ( Pooyathil nattal puzhuthu pokum ).
For planting all , Aswathi Njattuvela is good.
For mango trees, Bharani Njattuvela is best.

Thiruvathira Njattuvela is the most famous. It is known for vegetative propagation.
Rohini Njattuvela is good for trees.
Atham Njattuvela is good for bananas.

The Global Green Initiative

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The Earth Charter is an international declaration of fundamental values for building a sustainable society. Humanity is called upon to create a global partnership to protect the Environment, human rights, human development and sustainable living.

The Ark of the Gaia Covenant means protecting Gaia, the Earth, the Mother who gave birth to mankind.

Isnt Nature the first teacher of Man ? Didnt Man first experience the Divine in the stillness of the woods ?

In Natural Philosophy, Sankhya, Universal Nature and Universal Time are the two main principles which are responsible for the world.

Time is the Creator, Time is the Preserver, Time is the Destroyer and Universal Nature is His beloved consort !
(Sarvam Kalena srijyanthe, Sarvam Kalena Palayanthe, Sarvam Kalena Samhriyante ).

Time is the all consuming Power
Of mighty Absolute !
The foolish Ego thinks it is the doer
But is afraid of Time !

Prabhavam Paurusham Prahuh
Kala meke yatho bhayam
Ahankara vimoodatma
Karthaham iti manyate

It is time for us to give Nature Her due !

Theology or Anti Paganism tries to convert people into dogmatic and superstitiious believers of an extra cosmic God ! It is time for us to choose between the forces of Darkness and the forces of Light. This is the Golden Age of Enlightenment and the ignorant have no place in the Age of Enlightenment !

Considered as India’s biggest and first social reality show, the Green Kerala Express is a successful S R show, by DD-25, the state run Malayalam channel.

There is a grand jury consisting of Dr Kannan, Dr Vineetha Menon, Dr RVG Menon, Nirmala Sanu George and Heli, and the 1223 Panchayats, the Corporations and the Municipalities of Kerala will get immense publicity. It has received 250 entries so far from the residents of Kerala. A whopping 213,000 USD will be awarded to the best Corporation, Panchyath and Municipality, after 100 days of intense competition. Projects will be selected and there will be video documentation. The leaders of Panchayats who are selected will have to answer the learned Jury’s questions. The august assembly or audience can vote via text messages.

By Green is meant Sustainable Agriculture, Organic Farming, water conservation, health, food and social security, eco friendly homes, atmospheric non pollution, education, energy, housing and women’s empowerment, in a land burdened by overpopulation and scarce resources.

There are some good examples like a village that renounced pesticides for Organic Farming. Waste was converted into biofuel by one village’s initiative , and another village replaced incandescent bulbs with CFL bulbs. Another village used Bio Gas for cooking on a large scale. Another village which solved its potable water problem was highlighted. Due to the Matsya Kerala ( Fish Kerala ) Program, another village led in fish production The Panchayaths distribute fish feed and small fish free of cost and the fish tanks become productive tanks. One fish farmer reported getting aid from Panchayat and got INR 200 bucks per kilo fish, after seven months of breeding fish. ( India with 7 million tonnes of fish production lags behind China’s 49 million. 50% of India’s production is from inland farming or Aquaculture ). Poverty alleviation and rural sustainability are the needs of the hour.

The Green Initiative is spreading worldwide and will sweep the world.

Education or Wisdom is great and is the teacher of teachers ( Vidya Guroonam Guru ). It is time India invested in R & D in Agri and educated her people about both Bio Technology and Organic Farming and the necessity of keeping the land green and improved her agri infrastructure. Now there is an awakening and 32 lakh trees were planted initially. 2000 trees were planted at the Trichur Medical College Healing Garden and 200 gooseberry seedlings were planted by Oushadi, the state’s Ayurvedic arm at the nearby Santhvana Vana. More than 10 million trees will be planted in Kerala ! Let us hope that the Green Initiative taken by highly literate Kerala will be followed by other states.

I hope they include Bio Dynamics and Astro Meteorology as part of Organic Farming, which is a part of traditional wisdom.

The Global Green Initiative

2010-08-15T03:39:00.003-07:00

Rainfall Cycles

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Saturn in Virgo has created a draught like situation, even in water rich Kerala. Green Kerala is beautiful because of the heavy rainfalls and looks gorgeous in June/July, when the Rain gods favour her.

It has not rained for the last two days. Rains are expected in the sidereal months of Taurus, Gemini, Cancer and Leo.

Here are the rainfall cycles of Kerala

Edavam - The sidereal month of Taurus, when rains start to come. After 15 th May. When the Sun enters sidereal Taurus

Edava Pathi - The second half of Taurus, after 01 June. Rains are here to stay.

Makiryam Jnattuvela - After 7th May. This period is characterised by fierce rains. When the Sun enters the constellation of Mrigasira.

Thiruvathira Jnattuvela - After 22 May, when Sun enters the constellation of Aridra. Rains continous.

Punartham Jnattuvela - Fierce but intermittent rains. When the Sun enters the constellation of Punarvasu.

The Vedic seers gave prime importance to rains. This is indicated by their prayer

May there be plenty of rains and may the earth become fertile.

( Kale Varshe thu parjanya Prithvi Shasya Shalinee ).

Dogmatic Theology and their followers are ignorant of the Laws of Nature. They maintain that the Creator and the Created are totally different. It is the Creator who has become the Created and Nature is He in Manifestation.

Cattle like people , devoid of scientifc and philosophic knowledge, have destroyed the holy groves and paid scant respect to Nature. Their ignorance, bigotry and hatred have destroyed the vast treasures of our race. Mass deforestation has been resorted to by them. ( Another set of dogmatists are responsible for increasing labour charges, which had led to owners abandoning their paddy fields, whch are not now viable. The paddy fields have now become parched and have a desert, semi arid look) . Now they are reaping for their misdeeds as they face a water deficient land !

Kerala lies close to the equator, compared to other Indian provinces. A pleasant and equitable climate characterise this Nature blessed land. This is because of the state’s proximity to the sea and the presence of the fort Western Ghats on the east. Kerala would have been an arid land, if not for the Western Ghats which prevent this wind from entering the land. Kerala used to get copious rain ( almost 3000 mm ) in a year. Earlier the temperature used to range from 28 degrees to 32 degrees ( Now it is 42 degrees ) on the plains and 20 degrees in the highlands. The Highlands of Kerala, tourist attraction centers, enjoy a cool and invigorating climate the year-round.

Now the time is ripe for the South West Monsoon, which begins from the end of May or early June, with the advent of the South West Monsoon Winds. Torrential rain characterise this phase. Being the first state to be hit by the monsoon winds and lying on the windward side of the mighty Western Ghats, Kerala receives immense rains.

85% of the rains received in Kerala are due to the monsoons. Monsoon Tourism will take off from June onwards. The slopes of the Western Ghats are amongst the regions in India which receive great rains. The South West Monsoon in Kerala lasts till the end of September.

Article by G Kumar, astrologer, writer & programmer of
www.keralaheritages.com He has 25 years psychic researchexperience in the
esoteric arts. He gives free tips at www.eastrovedica.net and stock market
investment advice can be got at www.stockmarketastrology.com

Indian Astronomy IV

2010-08-15T03:38:00.002-07:00

Ahargana is defined as the no of days elapsed after the start of the Iron Age, the Kali Yuga, which began on 3102 BC.

Kali Era = English Era +3102

The no of days elapsed from Kali Start was 1822903 on 01/01/1890.

Hence

Ahargana, d = ( xdate - 01/01/1980 ) + 1822903

where xdate is the date of birth.

This Ahargana is printed on every V A Horoscope. All calculations in Indian Astronomy are based on Ahargana. Ahas means day in Sanskrit and gana means calculation.

The present Kali Era is therefore

3102 + 2010 = 5112

The difference between the Malayalam & English eras are 825. Malayalam Era is 1185 now and if you add 825 to Malayalam Era, you get English Era.

Malayalam Era + 825 = English Era

The Julian Calender used the value 365.25 d ( days ) for year and was proved erroneous. There were 10 days difference and the Gregorian Calender, the present day Calender, came into being. Gregorian uses 365.2425 d for year. The Gregorian is also not perfect, as the Tropical Zodiac is moving, and may be subject to correction after some years. The actual value of the year is

year = 365.256362424815 d

with twelve decimals. In my early days of progam development, I used two decimals and there were many days of difference. This value is given by Sir Simon Newcombe, according to Western Learning and Aryabhata, according to Indian learning.

In Indian Astronomy, the great Jupiter - Saturn perturbation, is calculated using the formula given below.

The Kali year, ky, is calculated and 4660 is deducted from it to get the kyb, the kali year balance. Its Bhujamsa,x is calculated using the Equation of Bhuja and then its Bhujajya ( Sin x ) is calculated to get the value of Manda Phala, a.

Mathematically, it can be written as

Y, (Year of Birth) + 3102 = ky, the Kali Year of Birth

kyb ( kali year balance ) = ( ky - 4660 )

x = kyb*360/918

b, bhujajya = sin(x)

Since the duration is 918 years and perturbation amplitude is 1187 seconds,

Manda Phala, a = sin(x) * 1187

( Example - My year of birth is 1955. Add 3102 and we get 5057. Less 4660 is 397. 397*360/918 is 155.6 and its Bhujamsa is 25 degrees roughly ( 180-155). So Sin (25 ) is 0.41. Manda Phala, therefore is 0.41*1187 seconds or Vikalas. )

This value, Manda Phala, a is added to Jupiter’s mean longitude, if Jove’s long is less than 180 and subtracted if Jove’s long is greater than 180.

In the West, this discovery is attributed to Laplace. The duration of the perturbation of 918 years is known as Laplace period. Its amplitude of .332 degrees is similar to the Indian value of 1187 seconds.

Laplace gives the equation 2 nj - 5 ns + constant, bringing to light the 5:2 Resonance in the orbits of the two celestial giants. 2 revolutions of Saturn = 5 revolutions of Jupiter = 60 years !

The Vedic Astro Calender

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As the Sun entered the 15th degree of Taurus, Edava Pathi began in right earnest. When I woke up at 0230 AM ( 29/05/2010), it was raining cats and dogs.

The rains must have continued for one hour. It was accompanied by lightning. Let us hope that Global Warming has not triggered Climate Change to that extent and we will be receiving some rains !

Unlike the Gregorian Calender, the Vedic Astro Calender gives the positions of the celestial bodies. For instance, today is Edavam 15th and we know that the Sun is in the 15th degree of Taurus. Today the Calender shows Thrikketta, which means that the Moon is in the constellation of Thrikketta and is in Scorpio. The Calender gives the Jnattuvelas and the Rohini Jnattuvela started on the 25th. So we are in Edava Pathi, in the midst of Rohini Jnattuvela. Rains will be sporadic but will accelerate as Makiryam, Thiruvathira, Punartham and Pooyam Jnattuvelas take over.

The Western Calender is based on the Tropical Zodiac ( from the First degree of Aries to the 360th degree of Pisces ) and we find that the Vernal Equinoctial Point recedes one degree every 72 years. ( This is the astro phenomenon of the Precession of the Equinoxes ) Hence in the Tropical Zodiac, the First Point of Aries moves ! The Vedic Calender is based on the Sidereal Zodiac and is counted from the First Degree of Beta Aries ( Aswini ) to the 360th degree of Zeta Piscium ( Revathi ).

As the First Point of Aries moves in the Tropical Zodiac, some adjustments should be done in the Western Calender. Pope Gregory modified the Julian Calender by 12 days and the present Calender came to be known after him - the Gregorian Calender. Seasons were changing and Western astronomers were worried. So Pope Gregory added 12 more days to the Julian Calender ! Like, today is Oct 2nd and tomorrow is Oct 14th !

The Vedic Calender, as it is based on the constellations of the fixed stars or rather the Sidereal Zodiac, is static and does not change. All Indian Astrology is Sidereal.

So we find that, to the man of Wisdom, the Gregorian Calender is of no use. The Vedic gives all astro information and is informative indeed !

The Vedic Calender was proved right again as it rained for 90 minutes here in Trichur, from 0300 AM onwards ( 31/05/2010). When I woke up at 3, it was raining cats and dogs of all descriptions.

Even though Global Warming had triggered Climate Change, we can expect 50% of the rains. We used to get 100% rains, say 10 years ago. Even though rains are less, the V C says we will get rains and that sporadic rains will continue till November !

The Vedic Calender gives the dates of the solar months from Mesha ( Aries ) to Meena ( Pisces ). It also gives the lunations from the First Lunation ( Prathama ) to the Last Lunation ( Amavasya ). It also gives the dates for the Hindu lunar months.

The Vedic Lunar Months are lunar months based on Full Moon.

In the first month of Aries ( Mesha ) the Full Moon occurs on the constellation of Chitra and hence it is called Chaitra

In the next month of Taurus (Vrishabha) the Full Moon occurs on the constellation of Vishakha and hence it is called Vaishakha

In the next month of Gemin ( Mithuna) the Full Moon occurs on the constellation of Jyeshta and hence it is called Jyeshta

In the next month of Cancer (Kataka ) the Full Moon occurs on the constellation of Ashada and hence it is called Ashada

In the next month of Leo ( Chingam ) the Full Moon occurs on the constellation of Sravana and hence it is called Sravana

In the next month of Virgo ( Kanya ) the Full Moon occurs on the constellation of Bhadrapada and hence it is called Bhadrapada

In the next month of Liibra ( Thula ) the Full Moon occurs on the constellation of Aswini and hence it is called Ashwin

In the next month of Scorpio ( Vrischika ) the Full Moon occurs on the constellation of Karthika and hence it is called Karthik

In the next month of Sagittarius ( Dhanus ) the Full Moon occurs on the constellation of Mrigasira and hence it is called Margashirsha

In the next month of Capricorn ( Makara ) the Full Moon occurs on the constellation of Pushya and hence it is called Pusha

In the next month of Aquarius ( Kumbha ) the Full Moon occurs on the constellation of Makha and hence it is called Magh

In the next month of Pisces ( Meena ) the Full Moon occurs on the constellation of Phalguna and hence it is called Phalguna

Rains galore as Sun transits Alpha Orionis !

2010-08-15T03:37:00.001-07:00

Kerala Astrology has a unique method of predicting weather cycles using the apparent solar transits or the real Earth's transits of the Sidereal Zodiac.

This time Kerala has got plenty of rains and we can hopefully expect a 4.5% agri growth. The ancient astronomers of India used to say that rains will be in plenty during the apparent solar transit of Alpha Orionis.
( Thiruvathira Thiru Thakriti ).

There are seven major Njattuvelas, in which good rains are expected. They are

Karthika
Rohini
Makriyam
Thiruvathira
Punartham
Pooyam
Ayilyam

Rains will be galore during these transits of the Earth through the constellations of Eta Tauri to Alpha Cancri. These transits occur from the 15th of May to the 15th of August.

There are many sayings in Malayalam which deal with these rain procuring Njattuvelas.

Rains will be incessant during Thiruvathira ( Thiri muriyathe peythu nirayunna Thiruvathira )
You can spit even before Deity during Thiruvathira ( Thiruvathirakku thiru muttathu thuppam )
The waters of Thiruvathira will be gorgeous ( Thiruvathira vellam thiruvonam kande pokoo )

While other solar transits take 13.33 days, this time Thiruvathira is the longest, taking 15 days, as the solar transit of Gemini ( Mithuna) is 32 days.

The ancients believed that it was nectar that rained during Thiruvathira. Every day's rain have medicinal value. The ancients used to store the Thiruvathira rainwater and use it for Ayurvedic medicines. Maximum rains will be there during this transit and the paddy fields will be overflowing ! " 101 rains, 101 sunlight ", " 7.5 rains, 7,5 sunlight " - Such phrases point out to the 50:50 proportion of rainy and sunny interludes which grace Thiruvathira.

The Njattuvela before Karthika, is good for digging wells. The wells dug during the Karthika Njattuvela ( when the Sun transits the Pleiades ), will be everlasting as their water will not dry up. ( Karthika kalil kakkakalu nananjal
mukkathil mukkum ).

The seeds planted after Rohini Njattuvela ( Alpha Tauri ) need only little care. ( Rohinikappuram vitha kuruchu mathi ). Meaning you can get the fruits effortlessly.

Heavy rains will lash during the Earth's transit of Lamda Orionis ( Makirythil Mazha Madhichu ).
Fierce rains to be expected during the Earth's tranist of Beta Geminorum ( Punarthathil pulappikkunna mazha ) ( Punartha thadiyan poozhi therippikkum ). ( Punarthathil poozhan keruka ).
Good rains also during the Earth's transit olf Delta Cancri ( Pooyathil pothumpurahtum nellu ). ( Pooyathil mazha peythal pullum nellu ).
Unexpected rains during the Earth's transit of Alpha Cancri ( Ayilya kallan akatho puratho ). The day may look bright and sunny and there will be unexpected downpours catching you unawares.

The Njattuvelas are good if they are born at night. The birth of ten Njattuvelas during daytime is considered to be inauspicious. ( Pathu Njattuvela pirannal palem kuthi erakkum ). If the Monsoon fails, if the Njattuvelas fail, there wil be famine and drought !

The major Four Seasons of the Western System ( spring, summer, autumn and winter ) and the six seasons of the Indian system ( vasanta, greeshma, varsha, sharat, hemanta, sisira ) are caused by the apparent solar transits or the real Earth's transits of the Constellational Zodiac. To the seeker of Absolute Truth, the Njattuvelas are more comprehensive and minute and is worth studying, to understand Weather Cycles !