Ramayanam : (18/07/2013 )

KARKIDAKA VAVU : Every Hindu is fortunate to be born into the world’s richest tradition, the oldest surviving culture, and is a heir to “the jewel of the world’s spiritual wisdom. Unlike other religions that define themselves on faith, Hinduism is the science of the mind, management of life and invitation to seek and identify the spiritual essence in your true self. It urges you to discard fear and suffering and use your inherent wisdom and power as qualifications to uplift yourself. To attain this several paths have been shown, be it the colorful customs, the rigorous rituals or the profound scriptures. Despite the multiplicity of the festivals, customs and rituals the essence of Hinduism remains uncorrupt, deeply rooted in its scriptures. Karkidaka Vavu Bali or Vavubali Tharpanam is an important ritual observed by Hindus in Kerala in the month of karkidakam (mid July to mid August). In 2014, the date of Karkidaka Vavu Bali is July 26. People offer ‘bali’ to the

Welcome to ‘Ramayana Masam’ : In Kerala, the Malayalam month of Karkidakam is observed as Ramayana masam. This year, the month commences on 17th of July. Ramayana, the first adi kavyam (poem) of Hindus is recited during the whole month. Ramayana recitation during this time is considered a propitious practice. As you are reading this, most Malayalees would be visualising images of nilavilakku, valkannadi, thulasi kathir, kindi….. I know you feel nostalgic when you hear about traditions followed in Kerala. However, with a big heart and devotional mind, you too can observe in a little way, these traditions passed on over the years. Fortunately we have a translation into Malayalam by Thunchath : Ramanujan Acharyan (Ezhuthachan).Reading Ramayana is considered to be very holy and divine. Association with such holy scriptures creates a divine aura. It also provides us with mental solace. People read Ramayana to build self-confidence during difficult times. Ramayana is a depict