Celebrating Health, Harmony, and Heritage: The Wisdom of Rama Navami in South India

    

 

Festivals in India have never been just rituals or traditions—they are deeply thoughtful systems designed to nurture our well-being, health, and happiness. One such beautiful example is Rama Navami, celebrated as the birth anniversary of Lord Rama. In South India, this festival is not only spiritual but also profoundly aligned with nature, climate, and sustainable living.

 A Festival in Sync with Summer

Rama Navami falls during the peak of summer in South India, when temperatures begin to soar. Our ancestors, in their wisdom, curated a festive menu that acts as a natural coolant, helping the body cope with the intense heat while still honoring tradition and devotion.

Alongside the traditional festive spread—rice, sambar, vegetables, curry, rasam, papad, and payasam—the core offerings (bhog) are simple, refreshing, and incredibly purposeful.

 

 The Healing Offerings

1.      Panakam – Nature’s Energy Drink

A signature preparation for Rama Navami, panakam is a refreshing drink made with:

Water

Jaggery

Cardamom (elaichi)

Black pepper

This traditional beverage works like a natural electrolyte drink. Jaggery provides instant energy, pepper aids digestion, and cardamom cools the body. It’s often compared to a rustic version of thandai, but uniquely suited for the South Indian climate.

 

2.     Vada Paruppu – Light, Nourishing, and Cooling

This simple yet delicious salad is made from:

Soaked moong dal (split green gram)

A pinch of salt

Green chilies

Fresh coconut pieces

It is light on the stomach, protein-rich, and naturally cooling—perfect for hot weather. Its simplicity reflects the idea that healthy food doesn’t need to be complicated.

 

3.      Neer Mor – Spiced Buttermilk Bliss

No South Indian summer is complete without neer mor (buttermilk). Lightly spiced and incredibly refreshing, it:

Hydrates the body

Improves digestion

Reduces body heat

Served chilled, it’s both comforting and revitalizing.

 

 Eco-Friendly Traditions Rooted in Care

Beyond food, the celebration extends into sustainable living practices.

 The Gentle Breeze of Tradition: Hand Fans on Rama Navami

One of the most touching and meaningful customs observed during Rama Navami in South India is the way guests are welcomed and cared for—with the humble hand fan.

In the peak of summer, when the heat can be intense, hospitality goes beyond words. As guests arrive, they are not just greeted with smiles and devotion to Lord Rama, but also with a thoughtful gesture rooted in comfort and care.

A Gesture of Care and Comfort

Traditionally, the host personally fans the guests using a hand fan made from natural materials like palm leaves. This act may seem simple, but it carries deep meaning:

It reflects respect and humility

It ensures the guest feels physically comfortable in the summer heat

It embodies the Indian value of “Atithi Devo Bhava”—the guest is like God

As the guests are seated and served the sacred offerings—panakam, vada paruppu, and neer mor—the gentle breeze from the hand fan adds to the feeling of warmth, care, and belonging.

 

 A Thoughtful Parting Gift

The tradition does not end with the meal. When guests prepare to leave, each one is gifted a hand fan. This is more than just a souvenir:

It is a useful, eco-friendly gift for the summer

It serves as a reminder of the celebration and its values

It supports local artisans who craft these fans using traditional methods

The act of giving ensures that the comfort experienced during the visit continues even after the guest leaves.

 

 Tradition Meets Sustainability

These hand fans are typically made from:

Dried palm or coconut leaves

Natural fibers and threads

Sometimes infused with fragrant roots like vetiver (kus kus)

They are biodegradable, sustainable, and beautifully handcrafted—making them a perfect symbol of how traditions were always aligned with nature.

 

 More Than a Ritual

This beautiful practice teaches us that festivals are not just about rituals or food—they are about human connection, empathy, and mindful living.

A simple hand fan becomes:

A tool for comfort

A symbol of respect

A bridge between tradition and sustainability

 

Carrying It Forward

In today’s fast-paced, air-conditioned world, such gestures may seem small—but they hold immense value. Reviving and continuing these traditions can help us:

Stay connected to our roots

Practice sustainable living

Express genuine care for others

On Rama Navami, the gentle breeze of a hand fan is not just about cooling the body—it is about warming the heart.

 

 

 A Lesson from the Past for the Future

Rama Navami reminds us that devotion is not just about prayers and chanting the name of Lord Rama—it is also about living responsibly and harmoniously with nature.

Our ancestors:

Designed seasonal diets to protect health

Used eco-friendly materials long before sustainability became a trend

Created traditions that supported local communities

Their practices were not accidental—they were intentional, mindful, and deeply connected to the environment.

 

Final thought:

In today’s world of climate change and fast-paced living, these traditions hold more relevance than ever. Celebrations like Rama Navami teach us to:

Eat according to the season

Choose natural, sustainable alternatives

Support local artisans

Live in balance with our surroundings

Let us preserve these practices, celebrate them consciously, and pass them on to the next generation—not just as rituals, but as a way of life.

 

 

Festivals are not just days on a calendar—they are timeless guides to healthy, happy, and sustainable living. By following the footprints of our ancestors, we don’t just celebrate—we heal, nourish, and protect both ourselves and the planet.

Sun, Steam, and Tradition: The Seasonal Ritual of Vethal, Vadam, and Appalam

 

As the cool months fade and the intense summer sun begins to take over, South Indian homes step into a time-honoured culinary ritual. From mid-February to the end of March—just before the Tamil New Year in the month of Chithirai—households become vibrant centres of preparation. This period, falling in the Tamil months of Maasi and Panguni, is dedicated to making and preserving vethal, vadam, and appalam for the entire year.

This is more than just cooking—it is tradition, planning, and a deep understanding of seasons.

 

The Perfect Season for Preservation

The strong summer sun is nature’s dehydrator. Families make full use of this heat to prepare foods that can be stored for months and enjoyed especially during the rainy and winter seasons when sunlight is limited.

Women of the household lead this effort, often spending entire days preparing batches of these items with care and precision.

 

Understanding the Differences

Though often spoken of together, vethal, vadam, and appalam are quite different in how they are made:

Vethal (Sun-Dried Delicacies)

                                           
Vethal are fully sun-dried items, and sago (sabudana) plays an important role in many varieties. A mixture of sago, green chillies, salt, and sometimes curd is prepared and shaped before being dried completely under the sun.

Another popular version includes green chillies soaked in salted curd, then dried thoroughly. When fried, these become crispy, slightly tangy, and intensely flavorful—perfect with curd rice.

These are dried on terraces over clean plastic sheets, under strong sunlight for two to three days until completely dehydrated.

 

Vadam (Steamed and Then Dried)

Vadam has a distinct preparation method. The batter—usually made from rice flour, spices, and sometimes sago—is first steamed. This step partially cooks the mixture.

After steaming, it is shaped and then dried under a fan or in shade, rather than harsh sunlight. This gives vadam a different texture—light, airy, and slightly translucent when fried.

 

Appalam (Lightly Sun-Dried Wafers)

                                                  
Appalam, made mainly from urad dal flour, are thin discs rolled out and dried under mild sunlight. Once fried, they puff up instantly into crispy wafers that are a staple alongside meals.

 

Ingredients That Bring It All Together

The ingredients used are simple but versatile:

Rice and rice flour

Urad dal

Sago (sabudana)

Green chillies

Curd

Salt

Each combination results in different textures, flavors, and shapes.

 

The Preparation Process

The process is both methodical and artistic:

Mixing & Cooking (for Vadam)
Some mixtures are steamed first, especially for vadam, to create a base texture.

Shaping
The mixtures are shaped into a variety of forms—round discs, spirals like murukku, ribbon shapes, or even small balls.

Drying

Vethal: dried completely under strong sunlight for 2–3 days

Vadam: dried under a fan or in shade after steaming

Appalam: dried under light sun

Peeling & Storage
Once dried, they are peeled off carefully and stored in airtight containers to last the entire year.

 

A Terrace Full of Life

During this season, terraces transform into beautiful displays of culinary craftsmanship. Rows of neatly shaped vethal and vadam drying under the sun create patterns that reflect both tradition and creativity.

 

From Storage to Plate

These preserved items are not eaten immediately. When needed, they are deep-fried in oil:

Vethal turns crisp and flavorful

Vadam becomes light and crunchy

Appalam puffs up instantly

They are served alongside everyday meals like curd rice, rasam, or sambar, adding texture and taste.

The dried curd-soaked chillies, when fried, are especially loved for their bold, tangy heat.

 

A Tradition That Endures

Even in modern times, when store-bought versions are easily available, many families continue this practice. It is not just about the end product—it is about the process, the season, and the shared effort.

This annual ritual reflects:

Smart use of natural resources

Long-term food planning

Cultural continuity

The joy of handmade food

 

The Taste of Summer, All Year Round

When you fry a batch of homemade vethal or vadam on a rainy day, it carries with it the warmth of the summer sun and the care with which it was prepared.

It is not just food—it is a preserved memory of a season, a tradition, and a way of life.

Let the Sun In: Simple, Beautiful Ways to Use Sunlight in Your Home

    

As summer slowly settles into South India, sunlight begins to pour into our homes—bright, golden, and full of life. Instead of shutting it out, what if we embraced it?

Sunlight isn’t just “light.” It’s energy, warmth, hygiene, and even a design element. And the best part? It’s completely free.

 Everyday Ways to Use Sunlight

Dry clothes naturally – nothing beats that crisp, sun-dried freshness

Sun-dry vessels – a traditional, effective way to keep them germ-free

Make homemade pickles and masalas – sunlight enhances flavor and shelf life

Air out bedding and pillows – helps reduce moisture and odors

 A Natural Cleanser
Sunlight acts as a gentle disinfectant. Letting it into your rooms can help reduce dampness, keep spaces fresh, and make them less inviting for mosquitoes and germs. A well-lit room simply feels healthier.

 Sunlight as Home Decor
Think of sunlight as your most dynamic décor element:

Morning light in the kitchen creates a warm, inviting start to the day

Soft afternoon light in the living room adds a golden glow

Sun patterns through windows or curtains create ever-changing art on your walls and floors

Place mirrors strategically to reflect light, use light-colored curtains to diffuse it, and add indoor plants that thrive in natural brightness. The result? A home that feels alive.

Beyond the Basics
Yes, solar panels are a powerful way to harness sunlight—but even without them, small daily habits can make a big difference. Sunlight can reduce electricity use, improve well-being, and connect us to natural rhythms.

 
Don’t treat sunlight as something to block—treat it as something to design with. It’s the simplest way to make your home healthier, brighter, and more beautiful.

Let your home glow, naturally.

 

Here’s where it gets interesting—beyond the usual drying and lighting, sunlight can actually become a smart household tool in Indian homes if used creatively.

 Turn Sunlight into a Daily Utility (Not Just a Resource)

1. Solar Cooking – Low Effort, High Impact
A simple solar cooker (box type or panel type) can be used on terraces or balconies.

Cook rice, dal, or boil water without gas

Perfect for slow cooking—no supervision needed

Great for summer afternoons when the sun is strongest

2. Sunlight-Powered Water Disinfection (SODIS Method)
Fill clear plastic bottles with water and leave them in direct sunlight for 6–8 hours.

UV rays help kill harmful microbes

Useful during travel, in rural homes, or water shortages

3. Natural Room Heating & Cooling Control
Use sunlight strategically instead of relying fully on fans/AC:

Morning: open windows to warm and freshen rooms

Afternoon: block harsh sun with bamboo blinds or cotton curtains

Evening: release trapped heat by cross-ventilation

4. DIY Solar Dryer (Upgrade from Traditional Drying)
Instead of open drying (which attracts dust):

Create a simple covered drying rack using mesh + transparent sheet

Faster drying for chillies, papads, vadams, herbs

Cleaner and more hygienic

5. Sunlight for Pest Control (Traditional + Scientific)

Keep grains, pulses, and spices in sunlight occasionally

Helps prevent weevils and moisture buildup

Sun-dry neem leaves and place them in storage containers for added protection

6. Boost Indoor Plants & Kitchen Gardening

Use window sunlight for herbs like tulsi, mint, coriander

Reflect light using mirrors or white walls to reach deeper corners

Sunlight improves plant growth and indoor air quality

7. Sunlight for Mental & Physical Wellness

Create a “sun corner” in your home

Spend 10–15 minutes daily for natural Vitamin D

Ideal for morning yoga, meditation, or even tea time

8. Solar Charging Stations (Small-Scale Innovation)

Use small solar chargers for phones, power banks, lights

Useful during power cuts (very practical in Indian summers)

9. Sunlight-Based Laundry Boost

Pre-soak white clothes and place them in sunlight

Natural bleaching effect—reduces need for harsh chemicals

10. Light as Interior Design Element

Use jaali patterns, patterned grills, or cutwork panels

Creates beautiful shifting light patterns inside the house

Adds an artistic, almost “heritage home” feel

 

 A Different Way to Think About It
In many Indian homes, sunlight is either fully used (terraces) or completely blocked (indoors). The real innovation is in controlling and directing it.

Think of sunlight like water:
you don’t just collect it—you channel it where it’s most useful.

 

 

Remembering R. Parthasarathy: A Quiet Architect of Indian English Poetry

 

The passing of R. Parthasarathy marks the end of a deeply reflective and quietly influential chapter in Indian English literature. A poet, translator, and editor of remarkable sensitivity, Parthasarathy belonged to that generation of writers who shaped the voice of post-independence Indian poetry in English—not through flamboyance, but through precision, restraint, and intellectual depth.

Born in Tamil Nadu, Parthasarathy carried within him a dual literary inheritance: the richness of classical Tamil tradition and the expansive possibilities of English as a global literary medium. This duality would come to define his work, not as a conflict, but as a space of creative tension. His poetry often explores themes of identity, exile, memory, and belonging—questions that continue to resonate with readers navigating the complexities of language and self in a postcolonial world.

His most celebrated work, Rough Passage (1977), remains a landmark in Indian English poetry. Structured almost like a poetic autobiography, the collection traces a journey—geographical, emotional, and linguistic. From his early life in India to his years abroad and eventual return, Parthasarathy writes with an unflinching honesty about alienation and the search for rootedness. The poems are spare yet layered, personal yet philosophical, capturing the unease of inhabiting multiple worlds without fully belonging to any one of them.

What makes Rough Passage enduring is not just its subject matter, but its craft. Parthasarathy’s language is controlled, almost austere, but never cold. There is a quiet intensity in his lines, a deliberate pacing that invites the reader to linger, to reflect. He avoids ornamentation, trusting instead in the weight of experience and the clarity of thought.

Beyond his own poetry, Parthasarathy made significant contributions as a translator and editor. His translations from Tamil brought classical and modern Tamil literature to a wider English-speaking audience, acting as a bridge between literary traditions. At a time when Indian English writing was still negotiating its place in the global literary landscape, such efforts were invaluable. He reminded readers that Indian literature in English is not isolated—it is deeply interconnected with the many languages and cultures of the subcontinent.

As an editor, particularly during his time with Oxford University Press in India, he played a crucial role in nurturing and disseminating Indian writing in English. His editorial work helped shape the canon, bringing attention to voices that might otherwise have remained unheard. In doing so, he contributed not just as a writer, but as a curator of literary culture.

Yet, despite his achievements, Parthasarathy remained a relatively understated figure. He did not seek the limelight, nor did he cultivate a public persona. His legacy is instead embedded in his work—in the poems that continue to speak to readers, and in the literary bridges he helped build.

In remembering R. Parthasarathy, we are reminded of the power of quiet persistence in literature. Not all influence is loud or immediate. Some of it unfolds slowly, over decades, in the minds of readers and writers who encounter a voice that feels both deeply personal and universally relevant.

His work endures as an invitation—to reflect on where we come from, the languages we inhabit, and the journeys that shape us. In that sense, his “rough passage” is also ours.

Rest in peace, R. Parthasarathy. Your words remain, steady and searching, guiding us still.

Read Jerry pinto's article on R. Parthasarathy : here

Two Tales, One Timeless City: Why Lucknow Promises a Safe and Memorable Journey

    

 

There’s something quietly enchanting about a city that gracefully carries its past while warmly welcoming the present. Lucknow, often called the “City of Nawabs,” is precisely that kind of place—a destination where history lives in its grand architecture, culture shows in everyday gestures, and hospitality feels genuinely personal.

Inspired by the evocative article “Two Tales of One City” from The New Indian Express, this blog invites first-time travellers to discover why Lucknow is not just worth visiting—but worth experiencing with confidence, comfort, and curiosity.

 

A City of Dual Charms

Lucknow unfolds like a story told in two voices. On one side, you’ll find the old city—rich with Mughal-era monuments, bustling bazaars, and the lingering aroma of traditional Awadhi cuisine. On the other, a modern city rises—clean roads, organized spaces, contemporary cafés, and growing infrastructure.

This duality is what makes Lucknow so unique. It doesn’t force you to choose between past and present—you get to enjoy both, seamlessly.

 

 

Safety and Comfort for Every Traveller

For those visiting for the first time, safety is often a top concern—and rightly so. Lucknow stands out as one of the more welcoming and manageable cities in India.

Friendly locals: The famed tehzeeb (courtesy) of Lucknow isn’t just a stereotype—it’s a lived experience. Visitors often find locals helpful, polite, and eager to guide.

Improved infrastructure: Well-connected roads, metro services, and app-based transport options make commuting smooth and reliable.

Tourist-friendly areas: Popular attractions are well-maintained and frequented by families and visitors, adding to a sense of safety.

Like any city, basic precautions go a long way—but overall, Lucknow offers a reassuring environment for solo travellers, families, and groups alike.

 

A Feast for the Senses

Lucknow is not just seen—it’s felt, tasted, and heard.

Architecture: From the grandeur of Bara Imambara to the intricate beauty of Rumi Darwaza, every structure tells a story.

Cuisine: The city is a paradise for food lovers. Whether it’s melt-in-the-mouth kebabs or fragrant biryanis, each dish carries generations of tradition.

Culture: Poetry, music, and art continue to thrive, giving visitors a glimpse into a refined cultural heritage.

 

A Refreshing Travel Experience

What makes Lucknow truly refreshing is its pace. Unlike the overwhelming rush of bigger metros, Lucknow allows you to slow down, explore thoughtfully, and connect with its soul.

You can spend a quiet evening walking through heritage lanes, sip tea at a roadside stall, or simply sit back and observe life unfold with elegance.

 

 

Why You Should Go Now

The spirit captured in “Two Tales of One City” reflects a destination that is evolving without losing its essence. For a first-time traveller, this means:

A balance of tradition and modern comfort

A safe and welcoming atmosphere

Rich cultural experiences without chaos

Memories that feel both personal and timeless

 

 

Lucknow doesn’t just invite you—it reassures you. It promises a journey where you feel safe, welcomed, and inspired. Whether you’re exploring its historic wonders or simply soaking in its charm, the city leaves you with stories worth telling.

So if you’re planning your next trip, let Lucknow be more than a destination—let it be an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left.

Pack your bags. Lucknow is ready to welcome you.

 

Music: The Rhythm of My Life

  

Music has always been more than just sound to me—it is the very rhythm that shapes my life. From my earliest memories, music has been a constant companion, weaving itself into my daily experiences and emotions.

Growing up, my exposure to music was deeply rooted in Tollywood, Bollywood, and classical traditions. A significant influence during my childhood was the music programs aired on All India Radio. Those broadcasts filled our home with melodies that quietly nurtured my love for music.

The compositions of Thyagaraja and Annamacharya formed a gentle yet powerful foundation for my musical journey. Their kritis were not just songs but experiences that introduced me to the depth and spirituality of classical music.

At home, music was always present. My father was an ardent admirer of Mohammed Rafi, and his songs frequently played on our gramophone and tape recorders. Naturally, Rafi’s voice became an inseparable part of my upbringing, creating memories that I cherish even today.

As I grew older, my connection with music deepened. Learning to play the veena gave me a more personal relationship with melody and rhythm. Music continued to surround me even after marriage, especially at my in-laws’ home, where it remained an integral part of life.

Living in Chennai opened up another beautiful chapter—attending live concerts. The experience of listening to great artists perform in person was truly magical. Collecting autographs from my favorite musicians added an extra layer of excitement and joy to those moments.

Even today, music continues to shape my daily routine. Fever FM is my constant companion in the mornings, filling my home with energy as I go about my household tasks. Its presence makes even the simplest moments feel lively and enjoyable.

Adding to this beautiful journey is my husband, a mridangam artist. His passion and expertise bring a deeper understanding of rhythm and classical nuances into our lives. Through him, I continue to learn and appreciate music in more profound ways.

For me, music is not just a hobby or an interest—it is a source of rejuvenation. It revives my spirit, uplifts my mood, and fills my life with happiness and joy.

In every phase of my life, music has been there—comforting, inspiring, and celebrating with me. Truly, it is the best part of my life.

(This blog post is a part of  Blogchatter's Bloghop. details here: https://www.theblogchatter.com/blogchatter-blog-hop-a-new-way-to-write-collectively)