New Kashi Vishwanath Temple at Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi

Next day morning, we made a plan to visit Banaras Hindu University(BHU). It was exciting to visit BHU as we had read about it in history textbooks. Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya and Dr. Annie Besant were behind the establishment of one of the top residential universities in India.

Entrance of Banaras Hindu University or Kashi Hindu Vishwavidyalay. Varanasi

Ganga Aarti - A Visual Spectacle at Varanasi

The Worship of Rivers : In Temples in India, Aarti is offered to the presiding deity. Aarti, a ritual rooted in Vedic culture is a pooja(worship) to the image/statue of the deities. But have you ever observed the worshiping of a river? In Karnataka, I have seen the river Kaveri being worshiped in Talakaveri. It is worshiped there in a small shrine. Thus, worshiping of natural forces is one of the central aspects of Sanatana Dharma.

Ganga, The Eternal River : Ganga, the 2,525 km long river is worshiped throughout its course, especially at important pilgrimage centers in northern part of India. I had witnessed Ganga Aarti for the first time couple of days ago in Prayag. Ganga Aarti, a visual spectacle, is not to be missed if you are travelling along the course of river Ganga. Waving of light emanating from the multi wick brass lamps with rhythmic ringing of bells and chants forms one of the spectacular shows on earth!

Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, Varanasi

Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat : Ganga Aarti is performed at two sites in Dashshwamedh Ghat simultaneously. Soon after Ganga Snan, we were near one of the sites of performance. Usually Aarti is performed at the ghat near the steps leading to the river Ganga. As the river had flooded the shores, alternate arrangements were made.

Ganga Snan - Taking A Dip In The River Ganga

Back in Varanasi : We came back to Varanasi after visiting Sarnath on that day. River Ganga (or Ganges) had flooded the ghats(shores), with some temples submerged in Dashashwamedh Ghat. Locals told us that no one would be allowed to take a dip in the holy river. We came to know the seriousness of what they said only when we arrived at the shore near the Dashashwamedh Ghat. Boats made the barricade for anyone venturing the act and there was more to it – the Jal Police! Jal Police or water police – I was hearing it for the first time in my life. Jal police from UP Government was keeping an eye on the adventurers. On the other hand, three among us were keen to take a dip. I was hesitant after reading about the polluted water in the river. You can also see the Clean Ganga posters all over Varanasi!

Trip to serene Sarnath, A Buddhist Site

I believe not many are aware that Sarnath, the place where Gautama Buddha gave his first sermon is very close to Varanasi. Neither we were aware of this, when we visited Varanasi in August 2013. We came to know that Sarnath is just 13 km away, when we were returning back to our hotel after visiting Kashi Vishwanath Temple in the morning. Ganga Aarti, a must watch spectacle in Varanasi was later in the evening. So, we made a quick decision to visit Sarnath, with a resolve to come back before Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat at 6 pm!

Tranquility : We hired the same auto rickshaw to drop us to Sarnath. First impression of Sarnath was of a serene place, quite a contrast to chaotic Varanasi! Only thing which was preventing us from enjoying the tranquility of the place was the scorching heat! Giant statue of standing Buddha caught our attention immediately. It was the statue of Buddha at the Thai Temple in Sarnath.

Archaeological Museum(ASI Museum), Sarnath

Visiting Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi

'No leather items inside the temple including belt and wallet. Of course, no cameras and cell phones' - hotel staff had instructed us before visiting the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi(also called Banaras or Benares). So, I don’t have any photos of the temple, clicked by me. Just outside the hotel we stayed, we enquired a taxi guy to drop us to the Kashi temple. But the rent he said would charge was too high – Rs.400 for a journey of 5 kms and the year was 2013. We walked ahead to catch an auto rickshaw. The driver agreed to take us to the temple and drop us back to the hotel for Rs.200.

Getting Inside The Temple :- I was expecting a spectacular entrance to one of the most visited Hindu temples in the world. But when the auto guy dropped us in front of a petty shop, I was totally taken aback. He instructed us to go through the narrow alley passing through the row of shops and told to get hold of any Pandit(priest), who will get the Darshan(glimpse of the sanctum of the temple) done quickly! We followed his instructions to reach the entrance, which looked like of a small shrine. We removed our footwear and kept inside a shop nearby. Shop keeper asked us whether we wanted prashad(or prasada/prasadam in south India) to offer and milk for abhishek(or abhishekam) to Lord Vishwanath. We were surprised as in most south Indian temples, devotees are offered prasadam from the temple after darshan. Also, if we pay for the seva, prasadam will be provided at the temple itself. But it was different here, explained the shop keeper. We bought the prashad and milk for abhishek. After the security check, we were let inside the temple.

Visit to Triveni Sangam, Prayag, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh

Triveni Sangam is the place where three rivers confluence. It is considered as a very holy spot in Sanatana Dharma(Eternal Dharma) as a dip in the Triveni Sangam is believed to wash way all sins. Prayag(also known as Allahabad) in Uttar Pradesh where three rivers - Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati(invisible river as locals say woh dikhta nahi saab in Hindi) meet is such a pilgrimage center for devout Hindus.

My visit to Prayag was a short one but it was vibrant within that short duration. On my official visit to Allahabad, with my colleagues I jotted down a plan to visit Prayag. Prayag is the place, where one of the biggest congregations in the world happens during the Maha Kumbh Mela, which is held every 12 years.

Triveni Sangam, Prayag, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh

Long bridge over River Ganga : First thing I noticed when I reached Prayag, is the long bridge over River Yamuna. That is the longest bridge(which is 1510 meters in length) I had ever seen in my life and I was amazed to see the width of the holy river. This sight for me was frightening too imagining the wrath of the natural forces when it unleashes. You will also feel so small in front of the gigantic nature.

What makes beliefs in Bhutaradhane and Nagaradhane so strong?

You can also read this article in Kannada here.

Steve Jobs of Apple had asked to give the book - Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahamsa Yogananda – as a last gift to all who attended his memorial service. I am half way through the book. But I am finding it difficult to complete it due to references to miracles in that book! What aspect of the book, Steve Jobs - one of the most respected men in modern technology, found inspiring – I am yet to find out.

No matter however modern we become, there are some aspects of our belief systems, which cannot be explained in the realms of logic. Belief in holy spirits is one of such kind. Recently premiered documentary series – Belief – in Discovery Channel is a testimony to such beliefs all around the world! Bhuta Kola, explained in one of my earlier posts, constitutes the belief system of people of coastal Karnataka for several centuries. 

A Night of Bhuta Kola

You can also read this article in Kannada here.

I witnessed a Bhuta Kola recently in Puttur, Dakshina Kannada district. Performed during the night, Bhuta Kola or Bhoota Kola is a predominant form of worship of the Holy Spirits in Tulu Nadu (comprising of Mangalore, Udupi districts of Karnataka and Kasaragod district of Kerala). Though I am a native of Mangalore, it was the first time I watched the full ritual, which runs from dusk to dawn. Bhutas are worshiped as a divine forms or Ganas of deities like Lord Shiva or Mother Goddess. They are also worshiped as Rajan Daiva(royal spirit). Also, local heroes like Koti Chennaya, who stood for truth and dharma are given the status of Daiva after their death.

Bhuta Sthana or Bhuta Gudi

Season of Bhuta Kola : Also called Dharma Nema, Bhuta Kola is performed anytime from Deepavali day(during October) till Pattanaje or the 10th day of the Hindu month of Vrishabha (falls around the 25th of May). Bhuta (the Holy Spirit) is also called Daiva and the worship of Bhuta is known as Bhutaraadhane or Daivaraadhane. Bhuta, when worshipped by a group of families spread over various villages and towns, is called Kutumba Daiva. A shrine or a temple is built for the Daiva by the family. It is called a Bhuta Sthaana or Bhuta Gudi. On the other hand, Daiva's are also worshiped by all the people of a village or town.

Renovated Putturu Shri Mahalingeshwara Temple and Annual Chariot Festival

800 year old Putturu Shri Mahalingeshwara Temple was renovated recently. With the help of devotees and volunteers temple was restored to its glory in a year's time. Punarpratishta and Brihmakalashotsava ceremony was held from 5th May to 16th May 2013. Due to renovation, annual chariot festival of the temple had been postponed and was held between 16th to 26th May 2013. Here are some photos of the temple after renovation. Also, included are the pictures of chariot festival held this year.

Mahatobhara Shri Mahalingeshwara Temple, Putturu, D.K

Shivalinga in front of the Temple

Temple Chariot of Putturu Shri Mahalingeshwara Temple

Entertainment stalls at the Festival

Toy store at the Festival

Bird's View of Puttur Mahalingeshwara Temple Festival Ground

Temple Chariot (Brahma Ratha) electrified

Dragon Train at the festival

New cartoon characters on display at a traditional setting

Japanese way of doing things

More than anything it is the way doing things which astonishes a visitor in a foreign land. I too had my share of surprises.

Distance measured in time : I did not find anywhere how much is the distance between various places in the city. Instead, everyone was indicating the time it would take to reach any place. Forget people, there was not a sign board in roads where distance was written. Quite clearly, it indicates what Japanese respect most - time. On a professional front, it translates to every minute in a day being accounted for some task or the other.

Cleanliness : Every street and corner was neat and clean. Though this is a general observation in many developed countries, I was informed by my friend that Japan is much cleaner than US and most other developed countries. Though I could only find a cigarette butt thrown in a sky walk which was an exception. I was trying to compare the situation in India. In India, people who litter in public are more but in Japan more people keep their city clean. What I also observed that people who had flu or cold would wear masks when they are in public places. What way to take care of health of fellow citizens.

Metro is underground and accessible from every corner of the city : Tokyo metro is completely underground and there is a different world operating beneath earth - with people commuting and super markets, restaurants and what not. Tokyo metro is accessible every corner of the city and more often than not all tourist spots are at walking distances from metro stations. Some times, this takes away the thrill of exploring new places. Also, metro is the most economic way of transport in this expensive city of Japan.

Love for their mother tongue and culture : Though you can live in Tokyo without knowing Japanese as everywhere you find English along with Japanese - in announcements and in sign boards. But not everyone speaks English and even if they speak, it lasts few sentences and all the executive meetings involving foreign delegates involve translators. Even the power point presentations would be in English as well as in Japanese. In a way, they are preserving their language in a global economy and also make sure people who know Japanese find employment wherever information is conveyed in Japanese. Being a modern industrialized nation, Japan has not forgotten its roots - historical monuments are well preserved and ancient traditions are still revered and followed. Apart from that, Japanese people are very friendly and gentle to foreigners.

Influenced by American culture : Though I said Japanese culture is alive and thriving, you can also find youth in their fancy American attire, hairstyles and makeup. So, you find both extremes in Japan. Consumerism is at its peak in Japan too and you would be amazed how you would become an impulsive buyer when you are in Japan just as I felt.

Gudiya Sambhrama at Malleshwaram

Last weekend, during a casual conversation with Sandeep, he mentioned about Gudiya Sambhrama he was attending. Curious to find more about the event, I went ahead. So, last Saturday evening I was in Malleshwaram.

Telugu Bhagavatha Mela at Malleshwaram as part of Gudiya Sambhrama

Negotiating the heavy traffic on Sampige Road when I reached the venue(Sri Lakshmi Narasimhaswamy Temple), crowd had gathered for Prahalatha Charitram Bhagavatha Mela. Since the performance was in Telugu, I did not understand the dialogues. But I must applaud the efforts of organizers to save our heritage.

Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple - Utsava Murthy

Performance and the setting reminded me of the vibrant chariot festivals back in my native, held every year. Though one cannot compare the scale of these festivals, one can feel the vibe in culture scene. Of course, the churumuri stall near the venue, spiced up the nostalgia! At this time, I also visited the famous Kadu Mallikarjuna Swamy temple nearby for the first time.

Sri Gangamma Devi Temple, Malleshwaram

I was impressed by the tagline for this year's Gudiya Sambhrama - Vruksho Rakshathi Rakshithaha(Trees protect who protect it) in the lines of Dharmo Rakshathi Rakshithaha(Dharma protects who protect it). In big cities like Bengaluru, this means a lot.

Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, Malleshwaram

Tokyo Travel : Meiji Shrine or Meiji Jingu

Meiji Shrine or Meiji Jingu(in Japanese) is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife. As part of Tokyo city tour, we visited this place after visiting Tokyo Tower.

Barrels of sake wrapped in straw, Meiji Shrine, Shibuya, Tokyo

Barrels of Sake : When you enter the premises of Meiji shrine, you notice barrels of sake wrapped in straw stacked up near the entrance. Made from fermented rice, Sake is a Japanese alcoholic beverage. To know more about these barrels, read the following text which was written on information board put up near these barrels - "During the Meiji Era, Emperor Meiji, whose divine soul is enshrined here at Meiji Jingu, led the industrial growth and modernization of Japan by encouraging various industries and supporting technological development. Due to their grace and virtue, Emperor Meiji and his consort, Empress Shoken, the beloved mother of our nation whose soul is also enshrined here, are held in the highest esteem by the Japanese people. These sake barrels are offered every year to the enshrined deities by members of the Meiji Jingu Zenkoku Shuzo Keishinkai (Meiji Jingu Nationwide Sake Brewers Association) including the Kotokai, which has made offerings of sake for generations, as well as other sake brewers around Japan wishing to show their deep respect for the souls of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. In addition to stating our humble gratitude to all of the brewers who have so graciously donated their sake, we also pray for the continuous prosperity of the sake brewing industry and all the other industries maintaining Japan's traditional culture."

Barrels of wine, Meiji Shrine, Shibuya, Tokyo

Barrels of wine : If you find barrels of sake on the right side when you enter, you will find barrels of wine on the right side. What is this about? To find read the following paragraphs from the information board - "The Meiji period was an enlightened period during which a policy of "Japanese spirit and Western Knowledge" was adopted, to learn from best of Western culture and civilization while keeping Japan's age-old spirit and revered traditions. Emperor Meiji led the way in promoting modernization by embracing many features of western culture in his personal life such as shearing his topknot and donning western attire, and in many other aspects of daily living. Among these departures, His Majesty set an example by taking western food and in particular by enjoying wine with it. The barrels of wine to be consecrated at Meiji Jingu have been offered by the celebrated wineries of Bourgogne in France on the initiative of Mr. Yasuhiko Sata, Representative, House of Burgundy in Tokyo, Honorary citizen of Bourgogne and owner of the Chateau de Chailly Hotel-Golf. Profound gratitude is due to the wine makers who have so generously contributed to this gift to be consecrated here to the spirit of world peace and amity, with the earnest prayer that France and Japan will enjoy many more fruitful years of friendship"

Water font(Temizuya) at Meiji shrine

Etiquette / Rituals : As a mark of respect following etiquette are observed at the shrine. At the shrine archway(Torii), one needs to bow once while entering and once while leaving. Before entering the shrine you need to follow the rinsing ritual near the water font(Temizuya). Using the wooden dipper, rinse your left hand and then right. Pour water into your left hand and rinse your mouth. Again, rinse your left hand and rinse the dipper. Seeing and following these rituals, I found similarities with the Dharmic religious rites in India.

Entrance to the main shrine, Meiji Jingu

Main shrine at Meiji Jingu

The Main Shrine : The main shrine at Meiji Jingu does not have any images or idols typical of Shinto religion. Here, one can drop coins in the offertory box kept. To offer your prayers at the main shrine, one needs to follow the following etiquette - at first, bow twice and clap with your hands twice. Then, make a wish and bow once again.

Camphor tree and wish tablet, Meiji Shrine, Tokyo

Offerings and Wish Tablet :  Near the main shrine is the camphor tree around which wish tablets are hanged. Visitors can write their wishes on the wooden tablet (called Ema) and hang it on the hooks provided around the tree. One can write their wish in any language.

A Shinto wedding procession at Meiji Shrine, Tokyo

Marriage Ceremony : When we visited the Meiji shrine, we witnessed a Shinto wedding procession which  was led by two priests and two shrine maidens, followed by the couple under a red umbrella and the family and friends. It was delightful seeing the colorful ceremony in wonderful surroundings.

Condolence messages from major countries after the demise of Emperor Meiji, Meiji Shrine, Tokyo

Forest at Meiji Shrine : It is amazing seeing the premises of Meiji Shrine full of greenery. More so, because you find the forest right in the middle of a highly modern and most populous city in the world. The trees here are planted by hand about 90 years ago consists of many endangered plants and animals. This further thrusts the importance of human will and effort in recreating the lost Edens eleswhere in the world!

Quiz on Tulu Nadu and Tulu Culture

Every year ‘Aatidonji Koota’(a get together of Tuluvas in the month of Aati) is celebrated with great enthusiasm among Tuluvas. In cities like Bangalore, it is an occasion to take break from the busy life and meet the fellow Tuluvas and have a good time. Recently, I attend one such gathering. On that occasion, I was responsible for conducting a quiz on Tulu Nadu and Tulu culture. Following are the questions from the quiz. I must admit that I enjoyed preparing these questions - had fun searching several texts for questions, finding English equivalent terms for native Tulu words. I came to know more about my culture and felt proud about the Tulu heritage. Hope you enjoy answering these questions. Do let me know how many of these questions you are able to answer correctly! :)

1.       When was Vishwa Tulu Sammelana held?

a.       December 2008

b.      December 2010

c.       December 2009

d.      December 2007

2.       Why does ’Aati Kalenja’ visit homes in Tulu Nadu in the month of Aati?

a.       To indicate that the month of Aati is over

b.      To ward off evil spirits and diseases

c.       To convey the message of Emperor Bali

d.      To begin the cutting of the crop

3.       What do you call the umbrella made of palm leaves, held by Aati Kalenja?

a.      Tatra

b.      Kedinjel

c.       Toppige

d.      Gaggara

4.       Who published the Tulu-English dictionary in 1886?

a.       Reverend Manner

b.      Reverend Kittel

c.       Hegan

d.      Father Muller

5.       Whose rule was majorly confined to parts of Tulu Nadu?

a.       Gangas

b.      Alupas

c.       Chalukyas

d.      Rashtrakutas

6.       During  Aati Amavaasye people have the drink made from the bark of which tree?

a.       Jack fruit

b.      Alstonia Scholaris / Milkwood Pine/ Ditabark

c.       Banyan

d.      Indian gooseberry / Nelli Kayi / Amla

7.        Historically, which river separates from Tulu Nadu from Kerala?

a.       Varahi

b.      Chandragiri

c.       Netravati

d.      Kaveri

8.       Which famous Tulu theater actor acted in Adoor Gopalakrishnan’s Malayalam movie ‘Vidheyan?

a.       Devadas Kapikad

b.      Naveen D Padil

c.       Vamana Nandavara

d.      Anand Bolar

9.       Which great poet invited Kannadigas, Telugoids and Tuluvas to enjoy his poetry by saying ‘ayyayya chenaadudene Kannadigaru, rayyamanchidiyene  Teluga, ayyayya encha porlandendu Tuluvaru maiyyubbi kelabekanna!’

a.       Muddana

b.      Ratnakara Varni

c.       Kunda Verma

d.      Charukeerti

10.   What is the original name(moola nama) of ‘Kallurti’ bhoota?

a.       Kalkuda

b.      Kaali

c.       Kalkutiga

d.      Katyayini

11.   According  to Hindu cosmology, which one of the following regions became Tulu Nadu?

a.       Yaksha Loka

b.      Kinnara Loka

c.       Naga Loka

d.      Deva Loka

12.   ‘kang gla, taare gla onje tale athth’ – what is the meaning of this Tulu saying?

a.       Areca nut tree and coconut tree are not the same

b.      Though the task done is same charge according to the person’s financial status

c.       Relationship and business are two entirely different aspects and not to be mixed

d.      Treat everyone as equal

13.   Which is the birth place of warriors of Tulu Nadu – Koti and Chennaya?

a.       Padumale

b.      Veeramale

c.       Elumale

d.      Kemmale

14.   Which is the special game played during the month of Aati?

a.       Marbles

b.      Tip-cat / Chinni Daandu

c.       Chenne Mane

d.      Game of dice / Pagade

15.   Who is the author of Tulu epic – ‘Shree Bhagavato’?

a.       Nrupa Tunga

b.      Vishnu Tunga

c.       Naranappa

d.      Muddana

16.   Which is the first movie to be released in Tulu language?

a.      Pagetta Puge

b.      Bisatti Babu

c.       Udald Tudar

d.      Enna Tangadi

17.   Who among the following served as the wrestler in Mayippadi Palace and was famous for super human feats?

a.       Agoli Manjanna

b.      Maroli Chomanna

c.       Pulkuru Baacha

d.      Hydroose

18.   Who is the mother of Koti and Chennaya?

a.       Deyi Baiditi

b.      Kinnidaru

c.       Chennamma

d.      Ponnamma

19.   Which two rivers meet in Mangalore/Kudla?

a.       Netravati, Varahi

b.      Netravati, Payaswini

c.       Netravati, Chandragiri

d.      Netravati, Gurupura

20.   During the reign of which king did the ‘Aliya Kattu’ tradition come into place in coastal Karnataka?

a.       Kunda Verma

b.      Bommarasa

c.       Bhootala Pandya

d.      Nagarasa

Answers:

1.       December 2009

2.       To ward off evil spirits and diseases

3.       Tatra

4.       Reverend Manner

5.       Alupas

6.       Alstonia Scholaris / Milkwood Pine/ Ditabark

7.       Chandragiri

8.       Naveen D Padil

9.       Ratnakara Varni

10.   Kaali

11.   Naga Loka

12.   Though the task done is same charge according to the person’s financial status

13.   Padumale

14.   Chenne Mane

15.   Vishnu Tunga

16.   Enna Tangadi

17.   Pulkuru Baacha

18.   Deyi Baidithi

19.   Netravati, Gurupura

20.   Bhootala Pandya

A Village Called Heggodu

Heggodu is a small village 10 kms away from Sagara  in Shivamogga district in Karnataka. It is known for its cultural activities through organization called Ninasam - which stands for Nilakanteshwara Natyaseva Samgha. It conducts a culture course every year in the month of October. For details on the same, please click here.

Here are some of the photos from the Ninasam, Heggodu and Culture workshop held in October 2011.

Shivarama Karantha Rangamandira, Heggodu

FAQs on Ninasam Culture Course at Heggodu

It was by chance I got introduced to the yearly Ninasam Culture Workshop/Course through one of my friends. In the end, the one who introduced me to this did not attend the program for the full week but I did attend and it was a wonderful experience in Heggodu, amidst the greens! Well, I thought in this post I would provide FAQs on the same, which would benefit the ones with literary interests.

What is Ninasam Culture Workshop/Course?

• It is a week long workshop on culture appreciation - day sessions full of literary discussions and the evenings filled with theatre performances - drama, classical music.
• Held yearly, normally during the first week of October. Ninasam has been holding this workshop for more than 2 decades now.
• Majority of the discussions are in Kannada with few in English.
• Every year workshop will be based on some theme. This year the theme was 'Indian Languages'

Where is Ninasam located?

• It is located in Heggodu, 10km from Sagara in Shivamogga district of Karnataka.
• For more information on Ninasam, please visit their official site : ninasam.org

What do you feel are the key take aways from the workshop?

• One gets to know people with similar interests and enjoy their company.
• One also can engage in open discussions with who's who of the literary world during and after the sessions.
• This year's workshop had some big names - Kannada writers - U R Ananthamurthy, Giraddi Govindaraju, H S Venkateshamurthy, Vaidehi, K V Akshara, Kum Veerabhadrappa, M S Sriram, Theatre person - Prakash Belawadi, Bollywood script writer - Atul Tiwari (played the role of Mantriji in '3 Idiots'), Professor of Philosophy - Dr. Sundar Sarukkai
• In the mornings, before the literary discussions of the day began, there were 2 sessions participants could choose to participate - basics of acting and photography basics. I chose photography basics. I must say that was an enlightening session for me. It changed my perspective of looking at photographs. I also came to know how to see it as a work of art. Karnataka's well known photographers A N Mukund and Rajaram took the sessions.
• If you are interested in creative writing and confused about what and how to write, Ninasam Cultural Workshop could well provide you the inspiration. It may not teach you how to do creative writing but certainly prepares you to recognize good works and well, in some time you could start on your own!

What to do if you get bored during the workshop?

• You could get bored during the workshop. At least I did because it is week long and after 2-3 days you could feel bogged down. Also, not every discussion held my attention. But then you are in Malnad region of Karnataka and you have plenty of travel options to explore.
• Me and my friend Manjunath took a day off from workshop and went on a ferry ride to Sigandur!
• There are other options you can try too - Ikkeri and Keladi (historical places - 6 km and 8 km from Sagara respectively), famous Jog Falls(2nd highest plunge water falls in India, 30 km from Sagara). To top it all, October is a suitable time to visit Malnad - no incessant rains!
• You can also visit Charaka - the Khadi manufacturing unit in Heggodu.

Fees for the program and accommodation

• Cost of the program was Rs.1500/- (for food, stay and shows in the evenings) for the Oct 2-8, 2011 workshop. One can pay and register for the program a month in advance.
• Registered participants are provided with common accommodation in dormitories at Ninasam, Heggodu for the whole week.
• Otherwise, you can stay at a hotel of your choice in Sagara on a seperate expense and reach Ninasam in the mornings to attend the sessions. After the performances in the evenings, Ninasam bus drops the participants to Sagara.
• Or if you just want to attend the sessions for a day or two, you can do so without any fees.

Number of participants, their demography and feedbacks

• There were around 200 participants in the workshop.
• Participants include artists, students, people from academia, industrialists, engineers - on the whole people from diverse backgrounds sharing a common passion.
• For the first timers like me, it was an exciting experience.
• There were veterans who have been coming here for the last 5-10 years. For some, this time is a relaxing break from the busy and monotonous city life. There were students of arts who had enthusiastically come for the workshop and there were few who wanted a break from the boring college lectures!
• Some were of the opinion that the same speakers came every year and wanted to see new speakers at the literary discussions.
• I felt that this year's theme 'Indian Languages' could have been presented in a better way - people quoting, analyzing works from the past is fine. But it would have made more sense if there was a conscious effort to bring out the current literary scenarios and throw some light on recent works in various Indian languages.

Pour in your comments for get more details!

In 2016, Ninasam Culture Course will be held from Oct 8th to 12th (5 Days). You can get the details of joining the course here.

Tulu Script and Thawlava Software

You can read this post in Kannada here.

Not many people know that Tulu language has its own script. Bhagavato is the first Tulu epic to have been written in Tulu Script. In this epic, Poet Vishnutunga quotes Kannada poets Kumaravyaasa and Chaatu Vithalanaatha. Bhagavato dates back to 1636 A.D. This epic has been preserved in Manuscripts Department of Mangalore University with the efforts of Dr Venkataraja Puninchattaya(Info: Baravuda Jeetige - by Suryoday Perampalli).Kannada actor Suryoday Perampalli has brought out a book of Tulu alphabets. You can see the Tulu alphabets from one of the pages of the book below. On the other hand, National Computer Literacy Committee has come up with Tulu transliteration software - Thwalava 2.0. Key board layout used is the same as the one used for Kannada transliteration software - Nudi. There are 50 alphabets in Tulu language. Demo of the software was done in last year's World Tulu Convention. You can also see the usage of the software in the video below.

Related Links:
Times Of India's report on Thawlava Software
Deccan Herald's report on Thawalava Software

Puttur Shree Mahalingeshwara Temple Chariot Festival

Chariot Festival of Mahotobhaara Shree Mahalingeshwara Temple, Puttur was held on April 17, 2010. 71 feet high Brahma Ratha or Chariot was the highlight this time. Though it rained heavily for about an hour during the night of Chariot festival and created a mess for the people gathered, once it stopped raining people gathered again with the same enthusiasm at the festival grounds. Before Chariot festival begins, there is cracker festival held, witnessed and applauded by thousands gathered. Sky filled with colors during this time, is a treat to watch. But this time, due to rains cracker festival began at about 11 pm. So I could not see the whole of the festival. Here are some of the photos from the festival.

Brahma Ratha of Puttur Sri Mahalingeshwara Temple

Wood carvings on Brahma Ratha

Temple Pond of Puttur Mahalingeshwara Temple

Full view of Puttur Mahalingeshwara Temple

Brahma Ratha decorated with electric bulbs

Bird's View of Puttur Mahalingeshwara Temple

Betaala puppet

Entertainment stalls at Festival