By Jayanthi on
Friday, July 03, 2009
Click inside to peruse and participate in some of the interesting thoughts of Africa Expat Wives Club (A UK family settled in Kenya), Shaiju Joseph, Binny VA, Flower Girl, Aarathi, Meeru, Green Family, and others! What a great diversity of points of view!
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, June 26, 2009
Entering the kitchen to help a hostess was not part of my social ettiquette. Entering another's kitchen without being asked and doing 'work' would be intruding on her independance and ability to accomplish the task at hand. That is why I did not enter the kitchen in India, when I lived there, and even why it's taken me time to adjust into the Indian community lifestyle here and enter other's kitchens not only to talk, but to help!
How have I evolved this habit? What has encouraged me to question my culture and update it to something different? How has that enriched my life and helped me integrate with the Indian community? Read inside....
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
 Bridging secular and spiritual calendars of two countries:India and America, click inside to see what holidays or holy-days are awaiting us in July 2009!
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, June 19, 2009
What does homesickness mean to you?
In your culture and in your upbringing, what did it mean to you and others to be homesick? What were circumstances that created homesickness in you?
As you have gotten older has the idea of homesickness or the feelings of homesickness changed?
In this post, I share some cultural insights on homesickness, spending time away from home at different times in my life, and how my life experiences after having lived in India has changed my views on homesickness and notions of childhood independance.
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
For them, possibly an average day. For me, the culmination of aspirations, dreams and fantasies, in other words, an experience of pure joy!
Watching these small children connect with their cultural heritage was an experience of overwhelming joy for me. It was more than watching the dance that stirred emotion in me, but the dance was the catalyst. Are you curious why? Read more, and watch the video of the cute kids performing the dance that inspired me to write this post...
Photo, right, one of the girls peeking through the curtian ready to perfom. Taken by Krishna Kumar.
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, June 15, 2009
Binu shares his thoughts and experiences about Palm Sunday, the day that Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a goat, heralded in by the local villagers with the fanning of palm leaves, days before Easter.
The interview also provides links to games, crafts and songs for children, videos about Palm Sunday and links to bible scriptures that can be read on this holy day.
Photo: Fred Dawson at Flickr (used under creative commons
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, June 12, 2009
Globetrotting to India and across New York in present time and in sweet memories is the theme of this month's newsletter.
This month, we visited unique and beautiful places in New York (Highland Park, Lilac Festival), Lockport Caves, Olcott Beach on Lake Ontario, Sonnenberg Gardens in Canandaigua and have come half way round the globe to be with family and friends in Kochi, Trivandrum, Chennai and Kanchipuram (South India). These stories, still and moving images span the last three years. Enjoy!
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Waking to Suprabatham in the distance awakens you to the fact, yes, you are in India! Even more so in South India! Here, we experienced the wonder of international television entertainment, a trip to a cliff side resort beach, traversing on film star's teritory in the film park, shopping for saris (while enjoying filter coffee and vadas....), and a heart pumping session of driving in India!
How in the world did we fit rest and relaxation into the principals residential resort into all this??
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, June 05, 2009
Inspiration is everywhere, it's outside and within you! That would have to be the overarching theme of the posts from this month!
Click into read some of the interesting thoughts of Jonathan Mead, BV Raman, Kaushik Chakraborty, Grace Kerina, Nitya Shanti, Danielle LaPorte, Cherian Mathew, Joann, Shaiju Joseph, Mani Karthik, Jana, Amit Agarwal, and Sharon Wilson. What a great diversity of points of view!
Enjoy!
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, June 03, 2009
Stepping foot into India as a married woman with my husband, staying with his family for a few weeks was an exciting and memorable trip. In this two part travel diary, I share a few days excerpt of my experiences of travelling to and enjoying the new sights and sounds of Kerala, India.
In part one, I share our transit experience. What is it like to experience an Indian airport? What is it like to be greeted by the Indian climate, culture and people? I share a few thoughts from my experience.
Photo slideshow at end of post.
Thank you for reading.
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, June 01, 2009
Short introduction to the holy Puranas. The Puranas (of ancient times) are narratives of the history of the Universe. They are perhaps the most important or commonly used scriptural texts of the Hindus and are even today used as guide books for the whole of life and society.
Padmini shares answers to frequently asked questions about the Puranas, short summaries of a the Puranas in this post. Enjoy!
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, May 29, 2009
The Sun Temple is an archetectural marvel in the eastern coastal state of Orissa, in India. Ajoy, a contributing author to Alaivani visited this holy and historical site last year. He has sent the photos comprising this photo diary.
Thank you for your continued support and submissions to enrich the quality of Alaivani, Ajoy.
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Bridging secular and spiritual calendars of two countries:India and America, click inside to see what holidays or holy-days are awaiting us in June 2009!
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, May 25, 2009
Elephants of all Ages in Kerala India
comments welcome
These series of videos of baby elephants and adult elephants showcasing their talents for humans were taken on our trip to Kerala, India in 2008. Enjoy!
Photo, right: I am standing with a cute baby elephant at Kodanad, Kerala.
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, May 22, 2009
Looking for an economical vacation, usually a place that can be covered in one day (a daycation) and may even be a local retreat (staycation) for some. Some of these rendezvous may also be classified as ‘freecations’ because depending on where you live maybe no fees are required to attend at all!
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Our dream vacation awaits in Kenya and Tanzania. We wait to experience wildlife and safari in the country that still seems so exotic. In 2007, I came across the following videos by Daniel Sumarto I want to share with you today. These are three of his six videos.
These videos are inspiring. The photography is simply breathtaking and leaves an emotional imprint within me. All videos are embedded with permission from videographer, Daniel Sumarto.
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, May 18, 2009
Padmini shares with us a timeless spiritual parable and life lesson that all can relate to. Read, enjoy and be enlightened!
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By Jayanthi on
Saturday, May 09, 2009
As spring blooms with excitement all over Rochester, New York, so does many projects and creative endeavors through Alaivani! Open up to find out more!
I appreciate you spending your time on Alaivani!
Photo right: Krishna Kumar
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, May 08, 2009
 A few months back I recorded myself on YouTube talking about my thoughts and experiences integrating the cultures of India and America in my life here in America. The three videos total about 15 minutes. Listen at your leisure!
I would really be happy to hear your feedback on the videos. Log into this blog to leave your feedback or I have provided links under each video to the YouTube sites where you can leave your comments as well!!
I appreciate you spending your time and sharing your opinions with me!!
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, May 06, 2009
Click in to see this ad I created for my handmade soaps. It's only about one minute!!
Thanks!!!
Photo right: Krishna Kumar
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, May 04, 2009
Ramanavami is the celebration of the birth of Lord Rama, the epitome of a virtuious man on earth. The festival of Rama's birth is celebrated on the day of the star Punar Poosam in the bright fortnight of the month of Chithirai or Panguni (March-April-May). Poosam is Lord Rama’s star. On this day the holy epic Ramayana is read and Rama’s virtues are extolled.
In some parts of India, Lord Rama's birthday also coincides with the last day of the spring Navarathri or Vasanta Navarathri more commonly celebrated in North India. In 2009, Vasantha Navarathri and Lord Rama's birthday, or Ramanavami have already passed.
In this article, contributing author, Padmini shares the story of Lord Rama and some common ways of celebrating Ramanavami in Tamil Nadu, South India
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, May 01, 2009
South Indian recipes and culture, spiritual and personal growth, tech advice, and writing tips from bloggers all over the world!
Thank you for sharing your wisdom, experiences and creativity with the world!
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Bridging secular and spiritual calendars of two countries:India and America, click inside to see what holidays or holy-days are awaiting us in May 2009!
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
I maintain a flickr photo blog. Some of the photos from that blog are displayed here in Alaivani blog as well.
I am moved to share the top 20 photos from my photo blog at flickr here.
Photo to right, photo by Ajoy, one of the most popular photos on my blog! Thank you, Ajoy.
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, April 20, 2009
The poetry of the mingling of the words 'alai' or waves and 'vani' or sound into Alaivani, has inspired Padmini to share her very own soundwaves about Alaivani in this beautifully expressed poem!
Thank you, Padmini.
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By Jayanthi on
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Today marks the new year in the South Indian calendars for Tamils and Keralites. Happy New Year!!
This article discusses Tamil New Year. Submitted by Padmini Natarajan.
To the left, close and cover your eyes, then surprise! It's the good luck as seen in Vishukkani as ritualistically celebrated in Kerala!
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, April 13, 2009
Have you ever watched a feel good Hindi movie? Many of them have a marriage, not only of the bride and groom, but the family. Often when Indian immigrants marry in America, whether it's to other Indians or to non-Indians, the extended family comes over to stay, not only to attend the wedding, but may become part of the honeymoon too! Read our experiences...
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, April 10, 2009
 This month, join Viji, Padmini, Maddy, Raman and many others in the Alaivani community for some nice hot chenna masala and rotis while taking a peek at what's been going on in the world of Alaivani for the last one month!! Enjoy the company, enjoy the food!! Enjoy life!
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, April 08, 2009
 Padmini Natarajan is a new team contributor here at Alaivani! Padmini is an avid cook and enjoys sharing and teaching others about the beauties of Indian culture!
Click inside to see her bio.
Articles by Padmini soon to be posted! Keep tuned into Alaivani.com!
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, April 06, 2009
It is hard to believe but in all the books I read to prepare myself for my life as a student in India, it was a book about life in Africa that helped me decide what I really wanted to get out of my experience in India! After reading this book, I began to ask myself questions about what I was really looking for in my own experience in going to India. What did I want to learn? What did I want to bring back with me to America? How did I want this move to influence me for my whole life....
Image right: Map of African continent, by Edu-Tourist@flickr. Click on photo to see more of Edu-Tourist's photos.
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, April 03, 2009
Before I went to India, I read hundreds of books on a variety of topics and even studied some languages. I learned about a lot of things, most specifically the differences between America and India. It was fun and exciting to learn about how people express life differently than me, and of course that was one reason I wanted to experience India for myself.
We’re From India by Victoria Parker: Book Review
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, April 01, 2009
My brother in law is the principal of the Sainik School (Army school) in Kazhakootam, near to Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) in the state of Kerala in India. When we go home to visit family, we have spent many a day enjoying the sights and sounds of the grounds. Click in to see some photos and videos of the Sainik School taken in recent trips.
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, March 30, 2009
It was cold in the middle of summer, food was too bland, too many choices in the grocery store, the dress code was different, calling elders by their first names was preferred over ‘Sir’ and ‘Ma’am,’ and on top of all that I almost got myself killed by driving on the left hand side of the road!
These are just a few challenges I had in readujsting to life in U.S. after living in Chennai, India as a graduate student for two years.
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, March 27, 2009
Viji Varadarajan is an ambassador of the Tamil Brahmin cookery culture. Her passion for her culture has taken her on amazing journeys within her kitchen and outside her home as well, interacting with and educating Indians and Internationals on the beauties and wonders of this cuisine and culture. As more and more curious people from all over the world are exposed to Viji’s books and friendly personality, her awareness of what to do and where to go next in bringing awareness to us on Tamil Brahmin (tambram) cooking comes from questions and observations from anyone who’s curious.
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Guest blogger, Maddy, shares his thoughts on native wisdom from Indian, Chinese, and Native American cultures regarding the best directions to sleep to get the most peaceful, restful and uninterrupted sleep!
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, March 23, 2009
What does a foreigner expect when entering India, an Indian home and most importantly, an Indian bathroom? The topic may seem a bit uncomfortable, but it must be discussed. Hygiene and bathing are important parts of daily life in any culture. Navigating the bathroom and feeling comfortable in your hygiene practices is one large aspect of feeling comfortable in any culture, country and household. Within this article, I have tried to explore the various bathing areas I have encountered in India, what to expect in useage of these areas and things to keep in mind when integrating the American and Indian styles of hygiene.
I have tried my best to present this information in a tasteful and educational way.Do feel free to share your thoughts appropriately by leaving your comments or e-mailing me.
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, March 20, 2009
Adjusting to a new way of life around the block or around the world can be interesting, challenging, fun, exciting, scary and exhilirating! Share your thoughts with me! Your answers can be posted on up to two of my blogs with links back to your blog to encourage your insightful and enthusiastic participation in my student project! Thank you for taking the time to consider helping out!
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By Jayanthi on
Thursday, March 19, 2009
You are invited to join me, the guests of honor in this invitation and millions of others in celebrating Alaivani's 2nd birthday!
Some guests of honor include, my husband, Krishna, all of our family, A. Nagarajan, Ajoy, Africa Expat Wives Club, Arun, Baree BN Kartha, Cheryl Snell, George J Thaliath, Mithila and Rekha Aunty, Speakbindas.com,
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, March 13, 2009
Creating India inspired artwork at home integrates Indian culture into American life.
In the last month, I have created some youtube videos sharing on topics of cultural integration and authenticity. There are these videos plus much more in this month's Alaivani newsletter, open and explore!!
Photo by Krishna Kumar, used with permission.
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, March 09, 2009
Earlier this year, we went to an Iroquois Festival in eastern New York state. Here we experienced some Native American storytelling and dances. I have shot a short video that you can view once you click into this post. More interesting than the video is the comments by the viewers of the video. I am learning so much about the Native American culture from having had posted this video and interacting with the commenters. Thank you to everyone who wants to enlighten us on the cultures of the Native Americans.
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Following Vidhya's recipe blog for almost a year has bought some unique culinary delights into our kitchen. I love to read about the Tamil cooking, cultural aspects and health tips as presented in her blog. Of course, to top that, I just love to eat Tamil vegetarian cuisine and reading the blog tempts me to create her recipes on my own! Click in to read more about Vidhya and her Indian Tamil Vegetarian Cooking blog!
Thank you, Vidhya.
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, February 13, 2009
Deeper meaning of Pongal, Ganesh and Thaipusam were few of the thoughts on my mind this month along with other activities of daily life. Hope the inspiration of reflection is helping you to achive all your dreams in 2009! Click into read and explore more!
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By Jayanthi on
Sunday, February 08, 2009
Thaipusam is a south Indian festival celebrated to attone from sins of the previous years through rituals and self-sacrifice. Arun shares with us his celebrations of this holiday in Singapore.
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By Jayanthi on
Sunday, February 08, 2009
Happy Thaipusam. It is today that people will undertake rituals to rid of sins, burdens and hurts inflicted on others during the past year.
Read about Thaipusam
Part 1: Exploring Reasons and Meanings behind the rituals of Thaipusam
Part 2- Stories and Legends of Thaipusam.
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, February 04, 2009
The story of how Ganesh came to have an elephant’s head can teach us how patience, tolerance, clear communication, understanding and other virtues can help us better prepare ourselves for change and crisis. Read more...
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
 Who is Lord Ganesha? He is the most adored and loved god. Son of Siva and Parvathy, and brother to Murugan, Lord Ganesha is worshipped before all endeavors. He removes all obstacles. But many wonder, why does he have an elephant's head?
In part one of three, I will share a mythological story detailing how Ganesha got the head of an elephant.
Keep tuned in for parts two and three- meaning of this story and questions about Ganesha. Thank you for visiting.
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, January 26, 2009
 
Want to know how the average person in India lives? What is it like to live in village India? How does living in the village or in the city create a unique way of life? David Cumming attempts to answer in his forty-eight page book, Country Insights India: City and Village Life, while providing an overview of India
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
 Looking for a book that covers many aspects of life in India from a non-judgmental view point, free of the typical stereotypes of most books about India?
Full of interesting, insightful and colorful pictures, the book will draw all ages in for a quick, educational and inspiring read.
This review is the first in the India in Your Living Room series.
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Vanakkam. Welcome. Celebrate Pongal with us in America!
Relive Pongal in our household, through food, family, friends and festivity!!
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, January 12, 2009
Pongal a four day South Indian Thanksgiving celebrated in mid January on the first day of Tamil calendar month Thai. Living in India, and in Tamil Nadu encourages celebration of Pongal, as it is on the calendar as a living, breathing holiday. But what about the Indian Tamil Hindus living in America? This holiday is definitely not on calendars in America, and celebrating Pongal in America as if in India would not be fully possible. Yet, Pongal is alive and vibrant among Tamils and other groups of Indians here in the U.S. So how do people celebrate Pongal in America?
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, January 09, 2009
With a new year upon us, there are new opportunities waiting at every corner, lessons and options we can learn and implement to make our world interesting, fascinating and purposeful!! The last month has bought some changes into my life, as I hope with yours.
May 2009 bring you all the happiness, health, wealth and abundance you rightly deserve!
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
You have been sending me questions about teaching your children about India. In this day and age where people are very curious and open minded to the beauty of India, but unable to travel to India for various reasons, I want to help!! Click inside to see what I am up to!
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, January 05, 2009
It's all here! If you're Hindu, Sikh, Jain, Jewish, Christian, Muslim from India or America, your holidays are here!!
Opportunities to subscribe to this calendar for free, click inside!!
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, January 02, 2009
In preparation for a new year, I have removed many Google ads from my blog here at Alaivani and am scouring the globe for interested participants in a reasonable fee based ad scheme here on Alaivani. Click inside to read more.
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, December 29, 2008
Here are the top 20 articles of Alaivani between March 2007- December 2008. I am pleased to report that four of the 20 articles are contributed by guest bloggers! Thank you, guest bloggers (Arun, Ajoy, Baree and others) and all the readers over the years for helping this blog have such a pervading presence on the internet!!
Enjoy browsing the top 20 articles!
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, December 22, 2008
They say diamonds are forever. On this tenth year anniversary of stepping into India, my memories of those days are as vivid as if they are happening today. These memories are like my diamonds, they will be with me forever, will shape who I am and remind me everyday my love and passion for India....
I visited India for the first time December 19, 1998- January 1, 1999. It was an amazing and unforgettable trip that changed my life forever!! Click in to see photos and review some posts of my memories of that life-changing trip!!
Thank you, India!!!
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, December 15, 2008
A short inspirational story on my experience as a pioneering student in India. This essay was written for a scholarship I have been awarded called "Emerging Entrepreneurs."
Click inside to see a photo slide show of my studies in India.
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, December 12, 2008
Photos of Orissa, spiritual festivals in Maharasthra (Vinzai Devi Ustav and Krishna Janamasthami) and a stroll down memory lane to my social work placements in India almost ten years ago in this current issue, plus much much more!
Enjoy this plus much much more!!!
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Karthigai Deepam, the Tamil festival of lights is a sight to be seen, especially in Thiruvanmalai where a ghee fire is lit that is seen for kilometers on end!
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, December 08, 2008
We often take it for granted that the prepackaged food we purchase has an expiration date. Keeping until and even after this date, for many of us doesn't seem to create concern. Many of us also do not question how our food stays 'fresh' for so long? What are some effects of these preservatives in our food? I trace my stay in India to the effects of preservatives in our food.
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, November 14, 2008
Sit down, sip some coffee, and catch up with the Alaivani community!
Meet Nagarajan, BN Kartha and Sudarshan, contributors to the Alaivani community. Also view my first podcast, keep up with the just passed Hindu holidays (Diwali), mine and my husband's fantastic photos (including Ende Keralam, the best of Krishna's Kerala shots), and vegetarian restaurants reviews and recipes.
Enjoy and thank you for spending your time on Alaivani!
Photo right: Krishna Kumar
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Onam is a grand festival occuring in August - September in the state of Kerala. Diwali is the festival of lights occuring in October - November. I was always curious why Onam won out in grandeur to Diwali in Kerala. Click in to read my observations.
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By Jayanthi on
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Happy Diwali
The Story of Diwali
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, October 27, 2008
B.N. Kartha is my father in law. He is always teaching me interesting things about Indian culture, especially Kerala's culture and history. He has submitted some of his thoughts and writings to Alaivani. Click inside to read his articles.
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By Jayanthi on
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Across the U.S.A., India, Canada, Oman, in their cities, remote villages, tourist locations and unexpected side stops has introduced me to a wide repertoire of spiritual havens. Share in my spiritual journeys with me!
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By Jayanthi on
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Sudarshan, a contributor to my site from South India, contributed articles on Hindu/Indian Philosophy and Language.
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, October 24, 2008
The tower of a Hindu temple is called a "gopuram".
I have always been curious what is the meaning of this word. Sudarshan shares his knowledge about the etmology of this intriguing word.
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By Jayanthi on
Thursday, October 23, 2008
With Christmas right around the corner, some may wonder, what is a relatively inexpensive, unique gift to buy for that special someone? This gift is not only handmade, but good for the environment- made out of natural and organic ingredients, packaged in eco-friendly wax paper and shipped in recycled packaging. It's not only good on the wallet, and good on the environment, it's good for you! It's a spa treatment that fits in the palm of your hands...read more...
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Rendition of Swami Sivananda's guidelines of living a good life. Though many of these guidelines have details supporting Hindu lifestyles, any spiritual tradition can benefit from this by modifiying into your own spiritual habit.
Submitted by Arun.
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By Jayanthi on
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
A. Nagarajan has contributed articles on festivals and Indian/Hindu thought. Click in to read more.
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, October 20, 2008
Diwali in Tambaram, Chennai etched touching memories inside of me. In this article, I share six easy steps to a simple Diwali celebration.
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By Jayanthi on
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Saptashrungi Devi is Durga Devi, she is located at Vani a place near the city of Nashik in the state of Maharashtra. This place is one of the 51 shakti peeth of India and Pakistan.
Read more about Devi, learn a devotional hymn to Devi and see some amazing photos!
Originally submitted by Ajoy in 2004 to my old site.
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, October 17, 2008
To celebrate 2 million visitors to my site, I have created my first slideshow podcast on Arranged Marriages. What I think about arranged marriages may not be what you think!
Enjoy!
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, October 10, 2008
 Ganesh Chathurthi, Onam, Navarathri...one left to go... Diwali!
How have we celebrated and enjoyed this year? What else have we been up to other than celebrating holidays?
Follow our outings through our photo galleries and flickr blogs. Click in to read more....
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, October 08, 2008
Navarathri holds different meanings for different people in different parts of India. Navarathri holds a special meaning for me as well. I enjoy placing dolls on the golu, I enjoy observing Saraswathi and Ayuda pujas in my own way. I enjoy the spirit of this season. This article is all about what Navarathri means, and what it means to me as an American who has fallen in love with Navarathri.
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, October 06, 2008
What are all the things one must consider in preparing for Navarathri? Who is invited to Golu? What, if anything, is given to guests who visit golu? What kinds of things are required and how are they acquired? More specifically how do I prepare for this holiday?
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By Jayanthi on
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Relive an amazing experience- my first Navarathri. Not 'baby's first Navarathri' but 'adult's first Navarathri' at around age 21! Celebrate Navarathri with me back in 1999 Chennai. Happy Navarathri Friends!
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, September 26, 2008
It has left me breathless that my site has received almost 2 Million hits since April 2007! It also boggles my mind that more than one article on the blog has received 75,000 hits each! I am humbled I can provide information others find useful! Thank you to all who visit my site once or frequently!!
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Been hesitating to post these here until I write my journals. But, I think I'll do that later. Anyhow, they say a picture says a thousand words!
See cute elephants, tea plantations, street scenes, including protests, school scenes, beautiful scenery, and resorts in Kerala, India.
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, September 12, 2008
What is Onam? Why do people in Kerala Celebrate Onam? How one American has come to know, love and celebrate Onam in a cross-cultural family.
Submitted by BN Kartha.
Happy Onam!!
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, September 05, 2008
Hi Friends! Experience our summer with us- our travels to Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, biking trip to Pine Creek Rail trail, Montezuma Refuge in New York, Puerto Rican Parade in Rochester , RIT welcomes new students, and much much more!!!
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, September 03, 2008
May Lord Ganesh Bless you and your family on this day, his Birthday, and everyday!!
Happy Ganesh Chathurthi!
More Photos here
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, September 01, 2008
In celebration of Lord Ganesh's birthday in less than two days time, I am sharing with you a very special article that I have written, submitted to a friend in Mumbai and after translating it into Marathi, has been published in Marathi daily Loksatta. Enjoy the story of how I came to celebrate Ganesh's birthday in a unique way! Thank you for reading!
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, August 22, 2008
Every year, eight days after Rakhi in August or September is the birthday of Lord Krishna, known as Krishna Jayanthi in South India and Janamasthami in North India.
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, August 15, 2008
May India celebrate the 61st birthday - born 1947!
Enjoy and all the best to India for all the years to come!!
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, August 15, 2008
Every Friday of Adi Masaum (Adi Month in Tamil Calendar) is dedicated to praying to the Goddess. The last Friday is Varalakshmi Vratham, which is today. Click inside to read more on this fascinating holy day...
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
In America it could be considered blasphemy not to have the salt and pepper shaker on your dinner table. As a true-blue born and raised American girl, I haven't had the salt and pepper shakers on my table for the past ten years. It's only today I realized why they are there!
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, August 08, 2008
Running a bit late with this update. Lots been going on with me. Click inside to follow my stories...
Thanks for stopping by!
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, August 04, 2008
Imagine if your government woke up one fine day and published a manual on correct behavior and expected a cultural shift overnight? How would you respond?
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Have you ever felt frozen in a moment unable to know what to do next? Are these moments desired or avoided? How chilling out in these moments can help us to learn more about ourselves...
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
People have expressed to me that in caring for others, they felt they were unable to care for themselves. I reflect on this sentiment in this post.
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, July 11, 2008
Come inside this month's newsletter to come up to date on what's been happening in my world including other blogs I author, my handmade soaps and my career outside the house!!
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, June 13, 2008
After a pause of two months of follow ups, see what's in store from our travels to India, contributors discussing Tamil celebrations and temples, holistic healing through chakras, vegetarian recipes and more! Enjoy.
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, May 30, 2008
Ever wonder what are the seven chakras- muladhara, swadhistana, manipura, anahata, visuhuddha, ajna and sahasrara. Ever wonder how you can physically experience these chakras? The workshop I attended on chakras opened me up to intellectually knowing what are chakras as well as experiencing them through a series of exercises.
Par 2 of 2. Concluded.
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Hadn't anticipated posting anything... but since the connection is good there are select posts, photos and videos!! Read on....
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
One of the great circles of life reside within our own body- the chakra. Chakras are energy vortexes in our body that help move energy and help us grow and individuals and as a collective whole.
After attending an intriguing workshop on Chakras, and experiencing these vortexes within myself and others, I was moved to write about it. Chakras are one of India's great mystic traditions I have yet to fully explore and understand...
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Since childhood, Sarvanan has been intrigued by the rich history and cultural significance of Hindu temples. This passion has encouraged him to collect historical, socio-cultural, and scientific based narrations of different aspects of the temples. He hopes in sharing these stories and spreading the word, temples he features will gain significance and devotees to help keep them alive.
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, May 12, 2008
Vedic thoughts on the meaning of food in our lives. Presented in a series of seven parts. Enjoy.
This week's installment -"Anna Shuddhi" and "Atma Shuddhi" discusses the importance of a balanced diet (conclusion).
Submitted by Sudarshan K Madabushi. Reprinted from old tripod site.
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, May 02, 2008
We are going to India in a few weeks! Ever wonder what it takes to prepare for our yearly trips abroad? It's not only fun to be in India, but it's equally fun to get ready to go to India! Enjoy.
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, April 28, 2008
Vedic thoughts on the meaning of food in our lives. Presented in a series of seven parts. Enjoy.
This week's installment - "Tamasic Foods Foods" shares thoughts on foods that bring down our energy that have been stored, reheated and preserved for long periods of time.
Submitted by Sudarshan K Madabushi. Reprinted from old tripod site.
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, April 25, 2008
Everyone can do small things to make this world a greener place on Earth day and everyday! How did you make this world a little greener to celebrate Earth day?
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, April 21, 2008
Vedic thoughts on the meaning of food in our lives. Presented in a series of seven parts. Enjoy.
This week's installment - "Rajasic Foods"
Submitted by Sudarshan K Madabushi. Reprinted from old tripod site.
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, April 18, 2008
In anticipation of getting something, I have learned giving first and not waiting until you get something reaps amazing outcomes!
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Today is Thrissur Pooram in Kerala, India. This festival is well known for decorated elephants. It is definately a tourist attraction by both Indians and non-Indians alike.
Submitted by BN Kartha
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, April 14, 2008
Vedic thoughts on the meaning of food in our lives. Presented in a series of seven parts. Enjoy.
This week's installment - "Sattvic Foods" wholly nutritious foods.
Submitted by Sudarshan K Madabushi. Reprinted from old tripod site.
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By Jayanthi on
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Submitted by Sindhu
Featuring a snippet of the article, Tamil New Year - Chithirai Kani / Tamil Varusha Pirappu , written by Sindu of Flower Girl's Rural India shares a personalized of the holiday, Tamil New Year. New Year wishes to all!
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, April 11, 2008
Walk down memory lane with us as we reminisce our trip to Kerala, India in May 2007! Enjoy!
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
Vishu, a special day celebrated by Keralites all over the world, falls on April 14th this year. It is on this day we wake up and the first thing we see, the Vishukani sets the tone for the rest of the day and the rest of the year.
Submitted by BN Kartha.
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, April 07, 2008
Happy 1st Birthday, Alaivani! Let's see what are the accomplishments and milestones of the first year of life!
Thank you to all the readers out there for the opportunity to share my thoughts with you!
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
Finally! I have completed the 2007 Kerala travelogue series! Unbelievable! Within are my final thoughts on the series and my thoughts on spirituality and India.
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, March 31, 2008
Vedic thoughts on the meaning of food in our lives. Presented in a series of seven parts. Enjoy.
This week's installment - "Anna Shuddhi" - choosing good food to fuel the body.
Submitted by Sudarshan K Madabushi Reprinted from old tripod site.
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, March 28, 2008
In this 'Go Green Supplement' meme, I share some thoughts on how to reduce or eliminate chemicals from different daily tasks in the home. Enjoy!
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
In this series, "Dahashamani Diaries," I introduce you to this daily Ayurvedic drink that is one of the best kept secrets of Kerala, nay, India! Enjoy.
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, March 24, 2008
Vedic thoughts on the meaning of food in our lives. Presented in a series of seven parts. Enjoy.
This week's installment - "The Three Commandments" discusses following the three cardinal food rules helps every person be a conscious consumer of food and food products.
Submitted by Sudarshan K Madabushi. Reprinted from old tripod site.
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By Jayanthi on
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Is there connections between celebrations in select areas of Northern Kerala and the Holi of North India that fall at this time of year?....
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, March 21, 2008
A narrative piece on what is Holi, how and why it is celebrated. Video from celebrations from different parts of India included.
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
This month I talk with George Thaliath in Kochi, India about his international weekly newsletter entitled, Monday Mail.
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, March 10, 2008
Vedic thoughts on the meaning of food in our lives. Presented in a series of seven parts. Enjoy.
Submitted by Sudarshan K Madabushi Reprinted from old tripod site.
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, March 07, 2008
Sit back, relax and watch two entertaining commercials.
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
The inability to control our thoughts can lead to many challenges and problems in life. Earlier in a post titled Is it Time to Turn The Channel I touched on this subject. In today’s post, I want to explore this topic deeper. I want to explore what happens when we are so overcome with unproductive or dramatic thoughts that it adversely affects our lives and the lives of others close to us.
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, March 03, 2008
Warming the soul and the body on a cold day and helping to alleviate high fevers are just a few of the many wonders of ginger. Read on...
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, February 29, 2008
Our visit to Suchindram temple in Tamil Nadu, and Padmanabhapuram Palace, an example of eco-architecture in south India. Read on..
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Cows are important to all cultures and people - they provide us so much - milk, butter, ghee, yogurt, cheese, and for others, meat and leather. I wanted to explore the meaning of cows in different cultures and share it with you. Read on...
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, February 25, 2008
One way I remember Kanyakumari, a small town on the southern most tip of South India is through the groupings of threes I saw there. Read on...
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By Jayanthi on
Friday, February 22, 2008
Women in one part of India come together in large numbers to celebrate the beauty of womanhood!
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
When I want to be motivated and reminded of my inner strength, I look to the wisdom and encouragement Debra Moorhead shares in her blog.
In this month's Website Wednesdays segment, I introduce you to Debra Moorhead and welcome you to surf on over to her blog for the same reasons I do.
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, February 18, 2008
We are so divorced from our natural food cycle. What happened if right now we all had to hunt and gather all our own food? How many people would continue to eat meat? All the processing that goes into the piece you buy from the store would not exist- the meat eater would be in charge of every part of this process.
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By Jayanthi on
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Recount the memories of my trip to Venkataswara Tirupathi Temple in India in 1998. New photos downloaded and linked at the end! Enjoy!!
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By Jayanthi on
Monday, February 11, 2008
The most popular page of my old website detailing the five days of Diwali, the festival of lights, the most popular Hindu festival. Enjoy!
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