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Shiva Tandava Stotram – Learn to Chant

21 Mar

Shiva Tandava Stotram

Shiva Tandava Stotram is the most popular Shiva Stotram composed by Ravana, a Sanskrit scholar par excellence and a great devotee of Lord Shiva. Shiva Tandava Stotram is one of his many works.It is believed that Ravana composed the hymn in praise for Shiva, and pleading for moksha. The stotra has 16 syllables per line of the quatrain, with laghu (short syllable) and guru (long syllable) characters alternating. The poetic meter is iambic octameter by definition.  Alliteration and onomatopoeia create rolling waves of resounding beauty in this example of devotional poetry.

In the final stanza of the poem, after tiring of rampaging across the earth, Ravana asks, “When will I be happy?” Because of the intensity of his prayers and ascetic meditation, of which this hymn was an example, Ravana received from Shiva powers and a celestial sword called Chandrahas.

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I have made it easy for every person to learn this highly energising songs. Listed below are the words in Sanskrit and the exact pronunciation in English. Word by word meaning and the explanation of each stanza is enclosed. This is a beautiful chant and you can appreciate it better if you understand the meaning. I owe my gratitude to Muthulaxmi Rao for spending time and explaining this beautiful song word by word. I have also enclosed the YouTube links for the same

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जटाटवीगलज्जलप्रवाहपावितस्थले
गलेऽवलम्ब्य लम्बितां भुजङ्गतुङ्गमालिकाम् ।
डमड्डमड्डमड्डमन्निनादवड्डमर्वयं
चकार चण्डताण्डवं तनोतु नः शिवः शिवम् ॥१॥

Jata Tavi Galla Jala Pravaha Pavita Asthale
Galela Lambya Lambitam Bhujanga Tunga Malikaam
Damad Damad Damad DamanniNada Vad Damar Vayam
Chakara Chanda Tandavam Tanothu Na Shivam Shivam

Jata Tavi – Matted hair like a forest, Galla Jala – water pouring out, Pravaha – Flow Streaming forth, Pavita – Purifying, Sthala – Ground. Galela Lambya – Long Neck that is supporting the serpents, Lambitam – Hanging, Bhujanga – Snakes, Tunga – Big, Malikaam – Garland, Damad Damad – Sound of Damroo , Tanothu – Please bless me.

The sacred Ganges is pouring out from his matted locks which are dense like a forest. The sacred water is purifying the place on which it falls. On that holy place Shiva is dancing the great Tandava dance. His neck is supporting the serpents that are hanging down and adorning him like garlands. His Damaru is constantly weaving out the sound Damad Damad and filling the space all around. O Lord please bless us and extend this auspicious Tandava Dance with all beings.

 

जटाकटाहसम्भ्रमभ्रमन्निलिम्पनिर्झरी_
विलोलवीचिवल्लरीविराजमानमूर्धनि ।
धगद्धगद्धगज्जलल्ललाटपट्टपावके
किशोरचन्द्रशेखरे रतिः प्रतिक्षणं मम ॥२॥

Jata Kataha Sambhrama Bhramanni Limpa Nirjhari
Vilola Veechi Vallari Viraja Mana Muurdhani
Dhagad Dhagad Dhagajwalla Lalata Patta Pavake
Kishora Chandra Shekhare Rathi Pratik Shanamava Mama

Jata Kataha – Matted hair like a big cauldron, Sambhrama Bhramanni – Revolving and whirling around , Limpa Nirjhari – Goddess Ganga as a waterfall flowing from his locks, Villola Veechi – Undulating moving waves, Viraja – Resplendent, Murdhani – Forehead, Dhagad Dhagad – Throbbing pulsating sound of fire blazing on his forehead, Dhagga Jwala – Embers, Lalata – Forehead, Patta – Flat , Pavaka – Pure/ Shining / Bright, Kishora Chandra Shekhara – Young crescent moon on the top of His head, Rathi – Delight, Pratik Shanam – Every Second, Mama – Through my being

His matted hair like a cauldron is whirling and going round and round as he dances his Tandava. And from these matted locks comes gurgling the goddess Ganga. The strands of his matted hair which are like creepers are waving while dancing like the waves of an ocean. His forehead is brilliantly effulgent. The throbbing sound of a raging fire can be heard – Dhaggad Dhaggad (His 3rd Eye). A young crescent moon is shining on the peak of his head. O Lord as you dance every second a rare ecstasy is surging every moment thru my being.

 

धराधरेन्द्रनन्दिनीविलासबन्धुबन्धुर
स्फुरद्दिगन्तसन्ततिप्रमोदमानमानसे ।
कृपाकटाक्षधोरणीनिरुद्धदुर्धरापदि
क्वचिद्दिगम्बरे मनो विनोदमेतु वस्तुनि ॥३॥

Dhara Dharendra Nandini Vilasa Bandhu Bandhura
Sphurad Diganta Santati Pramoda Mana Manase
Kripa Kataksha Dhorani Niruddha Dhurdhara Apadhi
Kvachit Digambare Mano Vinoda Metu Vastuni

Dhara – One who supports the earth, Dharendra – Montain King, Nandini – Daughter of the mountain king, Vilasa – Sport, Bandhu – Friend, Bandhura – Charming, Sphurad – Trembling, Diganta – Horizon at remote distance, Santati – Continuous/ Uninterrupted, Pramaoda Mana – Delight , Manase – Belonging to me, Kripa – Grace/ Compassion / Tenderness , Kataksha – Side glance, Dhorani – Uninterrupted Tradition ( Like a Thoran – series), Niruddha – Restrained / Witheld , Dhurdhara – Irresistable, Apadhi – Distress / Calamity, Kvachit – Short span of time, Digambare – Sky clad / ever free, mano – Mind, Vinoda Metu – Divine Entertainment , Vastuni – Many Things

In this beautiful cosmic dance he is accompanied by Nandini, the daughter of the mountain king – the one who supports the earth. She is always his companion in his various divine sports. The entire horizon as far as the eye can see is trembling with the force of the Tandava. The subtle waves are entering the mind and creating wave after wave of ecstasy. This great Shiva whose side glance can restrain even the most irresistible calamities. He is sky clad and when in his mind the desire to play the Divine sport materialises it results in the great Tandava

 

जटाभुजङ्गपिङ्गलस्फुरत्फणामणिप्रभा
कदम्बकुङ्कुमद्रवप्रलिप्तदिग्वधूमुखे ।
मदान्धसिन्धुरस्फुरत्त्वगुत्तरीयमेदुरे
मनो विनोदमद्‍भुतं बिभर्तु भूतभर्तरि ॥४॥

Jata Bhujanga Pingala Sphurat Fana Mani Prabha
Kadamba Kumkuma Drava Pralipta Dig Vadhu Mukhe
Madanda Sindhura Sphurat Tvag Uttariya Medure
Mano Vinodam Adhbhutham Bhibarthu Bhuta Bhartari

Jata – Matted hair, Bhujanga – Serpent, Pingala – Reddish brown colour, Sphurat – Trembling, Fana – Hood of the snake, Mani Prabha – Radiant Jewel, Kadamba – Flowers, Kumkuma – Red colour Vermillion, Drava – Melted Liquified, Pralipta – Smeared, Dig – Directions, Vadhu – New Bride, Mukhe – face, Madanda Sindhure – Intoxicated Elephant, Sphurat – Trembling, Tvag – Skin, Uttariya – Cloth on upper body, Medure – Thick, Mano – Mind, Vinodam – Entertainment, Adhbhutam – Marvellous, Bhibharthe – Mind is carried away, Bhuta – Living Being, Bhartani – Sustainer

The reddish brown serpents adorning his head are throbbing with their raised hoods. This is making the jewels on their hood shine and glisten with radiance. This beautiful red colour like liquid saffron is smearing all the directions of the Sky as far as the eye as can see. It looks so beautiful like the face of a new bride adorned with sindoor. His upper garment is flying in the breeze and shaking like the thick skin of an intoxicated elephant as he dance the marvellous Tandava. As I watch this my mind is experiencing a marvellous thrill and is carried away by The sustainer of all beings

 

Slow Chanting

Om Namah Shivaya
Sadashivam Bhajamyaham ( 2 Times)
Om Namah Shivaya

सहस्रलोचनप्रभृत्यशेषलेखशेखर
प्रसूनधूलिधोरणी विधूसराङ्घ्रिपीठभूः |
भुजङ्गराजमालया निबद्धजाटजूटक
श्रियै चिराय जायतां चकोरबन्धुशेखरः ||५||

Sahashra Lochana PrabhrutyAshesha Lekha Shekara
Prasuna Dhuli Dhorani Vidhusara Angri Pitha Bhuh
Bhujanga Raja Malaya Nibaddha Jata Jutaka
Shriyai Chirai Jayataam Chakora Bandhu Shekara

Sahasra – Thousand, Lochana – Eyes, Prabhriti Ashesha – Starting from this to that – all encompassing, Lekha – Line / streak, Shekhara – Crown of the head, Prasuna – Fresh Flower / Newly born, Dhuli – Dust, Dharani – Uninterrupted series, Vidhusara – Dust coloured, Angri – Foot, Pitha – Throne, Bhuh – Earth, Bhujanga Raja – King of snakes, Malaya – Garland, Nibaddha – Tied, Juta Jata – Matted Hair, Shriyai – Beauty & Auspiciousness, Chirai – Long lasting / eternal, Jayatam – taken place, Chakora – rare bird that feeds on moonlight, bandhu – Friend, Shekhara – Top of the head.

The devas and Indra with their thousand eyes forming an unending Q are being entertained by the great Tandava dance. They are being blessed by the dust that is coming from the great dance. His matted hair is bound by the serpent king like a garland. The shining moon on the top of his head which is a friend of the Chakora bird is radiating the deep beauty and auspiciousness of Shiva.

 

ललाटचत्वरज्वलद्धनञ्जयस्फुलिङ्गभा
निपीतपञ्चसायकं नमन्निलिम्पनायकम् |
सुधामयूखलेखया विराजमानशेखरं
महाकपालिसम्पदेशिरोजटालमस्तु नः ||६||

Lalata Chatwara Jwallat Dhanunjaya Sphulinga Bha
Nipeeta Pancha Sayakam Naman Nilimpa Nayakam
Sudha Mayukha Lekhaya Virajamana Shekharam
Maha Kapali Sampade Shiro JathalaMastunaah

Lalata – Forehead, Chatwala – Levelled ground prepared for sacrifice/ Yagna, Jwallat Dhanunjaya – Sparkling embers of the blazing fire, Sphulinga – Embers, Bha – Shining, Nipeeta – Drink / Absorb, Pancha – 5, Sayaham – Arrows, Namann – Bow / Pay Obessiance, Nilimpa Nayakam – Chief God of Kama, Sudha – Amrit, Mayukha – Ray of light, Lekha – Line / stroke, Viraja – Sitting , Shekaram – Peak / Crest, Maha – Large , Kapali – Lord Shiva, Sampada – Prosperity, Shiro – Head, jata – Matted hair, Astu – So be it.

The blazing fire on his forehead is radiating lustre and energy. (Referring to His 3rd eye). This fire engulfed and absorbed Kama and his 5 arrows (The lord of Love). Finally Kama the Chief God of love bowed down in obeisance to the great Lord on whose head is shining the crescent moon. May we also receive the grace, blessings and prosperity from the Great Kapali.

 

करालभालपट्टिकाधगद्‍धगद्‍धगज्ज्वलद्_
धनञ्जयाहुतीकृतप्रचण्डपञ्चसायके ।
धराधरेन्द्रनन्दिनीकुचाग्रचित्रपत्रक
प्रकल्पनैकशिल्पिनि त्रिलोचने रतिर्मम ॥७॥

Karala Bhala Pattika Dhaggad Dhaggad Dhaggajwallad
DhanunjayAaahuti Kritta Prachanda Pancha Sayake
Dhara Dharendra Nandini Kuchagra Chitra Patraka
Prakalpana Aika Shilpini Trilochane Ratheer Mama

Karala – Terrible / Gory, Bhala – Forehead , Pattika – Flat, Dhaggad Dhaggad – Sound of burning embers, Dhanujaya – Fire, Aahuti – offering to Fire, Kritta – Performed, Prachanda – Terrible, Pancha – 5, Sayaki – Arrows, Dhara – One who supports the earth, Dharendra – Montain King, Nandini – Daughter of the mountain king, Kuchagra – Front of the bosom, Chitra Patra – Varigated leaves, Prakalpana – Praising, Aika – One, Shilpini – Artist, Trilochane – 3 Eyed, Ratheer mama – Enjoying me

The terrible surface of his forehead is throbbing with the sound of the raging fire. This was the fire that consumed Kama. The fire to which we offer our prayers. His dancing steps are drawing various pictures on the bosom of Mother Earth – who in turn is the daughter of the mountains. He is an artist par excellence. My mind is delighted with the wonderful spellbinding dance of the 3 eyed Lord Shiva.

 

नवीनमेघमण्डली निरुद्‍धदुर्धरस्फुरत्_
कुहूनिशीथिनीतमः प्रबन्धबद्धकन्धरः ।
निलिम्पनिर्झरीधरस्तनोतु कृत्तिसिन्धुरः
कलानिधानबन्धुरः श्रियं जगद्धुरंधरः ॥८॥

Naveena Megha Mandali Niruddha Dhurdhara Sphurat
Kuhu Nishithini Tamah Prabanddha Baddha Kandharah
Nilimpa Nirjhari Dharas Tanotu Krutti Sindhurah
Kala Nidhanah Bandhurah Sriyam Jagad Dhurandharah

Naveena Megha Mandali – Fresh new cloud mass, Niruddha – Restrained, Dhurdhara – Irresistible, Sphurat – Trembling, Kuhu – New Moon, Nishithini – Midnight, Tamah – Darkness, Prabandha Baddha – Tied, Kandarah – Nexk, Nilimpa – Godess, Nirjhari – Waterfall, Dharasta – Bearing the mountain / Womb, Tanotu – Spread, Kritthi – Skin, Sindhurah – Elephant, Kala – Small part of the moon – the last part 1/16th, Nidhanah – Containing, Bandhurah – Curved / Pleasant, Sriyam Jagad Dhurandarah – Holding the universe together.

The great dance has restrained the unrestrainable orb of newly formed clouds. Has bound the darkness of the night and the curved moon around his neck. The bearer of the Goddess Ganga and one wearing the elephant hide please extend the auspiciousness and welfare from this great Tandava to all.

 

Slow Chanting

Om

प्रफुल्लनीलपङ्कजप्रपञ्चकालिमप्रभा_
वलम्बिकण्ठकन्दलीरुचिप्रबद्धकन्धरम् ।
स्मरच्छिदं पुरच्छिदं भवच्छिदं मखच्छिदं
गजच्छिदान्धकच्छिदं तमन्तकच्छिदं भजे ॥९॥

Prafulla Neela Pankaja Prapancha Kalima Prabha
Valambi Kantha Kandali Ruchi Prabaddha Kandharam
Smara Chidam Pura Chidam Bhava Chidam Makha Chidam
Gajja Chida Andaka Chidam Tamantaka Chidam Bhaje

Prafulla – Expanded/ Blooming, Neela – Dark Blue, Pankaja – Lotus blooming in mud, Prapancha – Universe constantly expanding, Kalim – Darkness, Prabha – Light, Valambi – Support , Kantha – Throat, Kandala – Girdle / Cheek, Ruchi – Relish, Prababdha – Bound, Kandhara – Nexk, Smara – Kama , Chidam – Destroyer, Pura – Asuras , Bhava – Samsaram, Makha – Daksha’s yagna , Gaja – Gajasura, Andaka – Asura, Tamantakam – Yama

The dark black lustre of the universe (Poison drunk by Lord Shiva) looks like a blooming blue lotus, resting within his throat like a girdle. This poison he himself has restrained by his own will. I worship the destroyer of Kama, The Tripura Asura’s, Gaja, Andaka, the destroyer of worldly delusions. I worship the one who controls and restrains Yama. I worship my Lord Shiva.

 

अखर्वसर्वमङ्गलाकलाकदम्बमञ्जरी_
रसप्रवाहमाधुरीविजृम्भणामधुव्रतम् ।
स्मरान्तकं पुरान्तकं भवान्तकं मखान्तकं
गजान्तकान्धकान्तकं तमन्तकान्तकं भजे ॥१०॥

Akharva Sarva Mangala Kala Kadamba Manjhari
Rasa Pravaha Madhuri Vijrumbhana Madhu Vratam
Smarantakam Purantakam Bhavantakam Makhantakam
Gajaanta Kaandha Kaantakam Tamanta Kaantakam Bhaje

Akharva – Mutilated, Sarva – All, Mangala – Auspicious, Kala – Small part / Division of time, Kadamba – Tree / Flower, Manjhari – Cluster of blossom, Rasa – Nectar, Pravaha – Flowing, Madhuri – Sweetness, Vijrumbha – Opening mouth wide, Madhu – Honey / sweet, Vrata – In the service of / Command, Smara – Kama, Antakam – End, Pura – Asuras, … name of Asuras as in the earlier stanza.

He is the infinite source of auspiciousness for the welfare of all. He is the source of all Arts, which he manifests like a cluster of blossoms. From his Tandava is surging forth the nectar of Art in various forms. I worship the destroyer of Kama, The Tripura Asura’s, Gaja, Andaka, the destroyer of worldly delusions. I worship the one who controls and restrains Yama. I worship my Lord Shiva.

 

Fast Chanting

Om

जयत्वदभ्रविभ्रमभ्रमद्‍भुजङ्गमश्वसद्_
विनिर्गमत्क्रमस्फुरत्करालभालहव्यवाट् ।
धिमिद्धिमिद्धिमिध्वनन्मृदङ्गतुङ्गमङ्गल
ध्वनिक्रमप्रवर्तितप्रचण्डताण्डवः शिवः ॥११॥

Jayat Vada Bra Vibhrama Bhramad Bhujangama Shvasad
Vinirgama Krama Spurat Karala Bhala Havya Vaat
Dhimid Dhimid Dhimid Dhvanan Mridanga Tunga Mangala
Dhvani Krama Pravartita Prachanda Tandavah Shiva

Jayat – Victory, Vada – Peak, Bra (Bru) – Eyebrow, Vibrama Bhramad – Revolving / Moving to & fro, Bhunjangama – Sepent, Shvasad – Hissing sound from breath, Vinigrama – Spreading out, Krama – Steady Progress, Sphurat – trembling, Karal – Dreadful/Terrible, Bhala – Forehead, Havya – Anything offered as Oblation, Vaat – Exclamation while performing sacrifice, Dhimid Dhimd – Sound of drums, Dhvanam – Resonance, Mridanga – Drums, Tunga – Big, Mangala – Auspicious, Dhvani – Melodious sound, Krama – Step by step process, Pravartita – Established/ set in motion, Prachanda – terrible,

As he dances his eyes and eyebrows are moving to and fro expressing his mastery over all the worlds. The fast movements is making the rolling serpents hiss and spew out hot breath. It looks like a raging fury. The terrible 3rd eye is throbbing like an altar. The Mridangam is constantly bellowing with the auspicious beats of Dhimd Dhimid. And in this beautiful but ferocious manner Shiva is dancing his Tandava.

 

स्पृषद्विचित्रतल्पयोर्भुजङ्गमौक्तिकस्रजोर्
गरिष्ठरत्नलोष्ठयोः सुहृद्विपक्षपक्षयोः ।
तृणारविन्दचक्षुषोः प्रजामहीमहेन्द्रयोः
समप्रवृत्तिकः कदा सदाशिवं भजाम्यहम् ॥१२॥

Drushad Vichitra Talpa Yoh Bhujanga Mauktika Srajor
Garishta Ratna Loshta Yoh Suhrid Vipaksha Paksha Yoh
Trinara Vinda Chakshu Sho Praja Mahim Mahendra Yoh
Samapravruttika Khada Sada Shivam Bhajamyaham

Drushad – Behold / To see, Vichitra – Manifold / Varigated / Many colours, Talpa Yoh– Of the Bed, Bhujanga – Snake, Mauktika – Pearls, Srajor – Garland made of pearls, Garishta – excessive, Ratna – Jewel, Loshta – Lump of earth like clay, Suhrid – Friend / Ally, Vipaksha – opponent, Paksha – Supporter, Trinara Vinda – Grass & Lotus two views, Chakshu Shoh – Two Eyes, Praja – Subject, Mahim – Earth, Mahendra – Great King Indra, Samapravruttika – Equal moving forward, Khada – When

When will I stop differentiating and start seeing a hard ground a comfortable colourful variegated bed as the same. When I will see a garland of serpents and that of pearls as one and the same. When will I stop differentiating between a Jewel and a lump of clay. When I will feel the sameness in a relationship between a friend & a foe. When will I feel the sameness in Vision between a Grass-like Eye (representing ordinary look) and a Lotus-like Eye (representing beautiful look). When will I feel the sameness in the soul of an ordinary Subject and the King of the World And when will I Worship Sadashiva with the Equality of Vision and Conduct.

 

कदा निलिम्पनिर्झरीनिकुञ्जकोटरे वसन्
विमुक्तदुर्मतिः सदा शिरस्थमञ्जलिं वहन् ।
विमुक्तलोललोचनो ललामभाललग्नकः
शिवेति मन्त्रमुच्चरन्कदा सुखी भवाम्यहम् ॥१३॥

Kada Nilimpa Nirjhari Nikunja Kotare Vasanh
Vimukta Durmatis Sada Shirashtham Anjalim Vahanh
Vimukta Lola Lochano Lalama Bhala Lagna Kah
Shiveti Mantram Uchharan Kada Sukhi Bhavamyaham

Kada – When , Nilimpa – Godess, Nirjhari – Waterfall, Nikunja – Thick bush / Thicket, Kotara – Cave / Gap in Thick Bush, Vasanh – Dwell / Stay Put, Vimukta – Free from sinful mental disposition, Durmatis – Bad Conduct, Sada – Always, Shirastham Anjalim – Bowing down head in respect, Vahanh – Carrying, Vimukta – Liberated, Lola – Moving, Lochana – Eyes, lalama – Mark on forehead, Bhala – Forehead, Lagnaha – Sureity.

When will I dwell in the hollow of a tree by the dense woods with the River Ganga flowing by and be free from all sinful mental dispositions. And constantly worship Lord Shiva by keeping my hands on the forehead. When will I be free from my lustful desires (rolling of eyes) and worship Lord Shiva by applying the sacred ash on my forehead. When will I be happy chanting the Mantras of Shiva?

 

इदम् हि नित्यमेवमुक्तमुत्तमोत्तमं स्तवं
पठन्स्मरन्ब्रुवन्नरो विशुद्धिमेतिसंततम् ।
हरे गुरौ सुभक्तिमाशु याति नान्यथा गतिं
विमोहनं हि देहिनां सुशङ्करस्य चिन्तनम् ॥१४॥

Idam Hi Nityam Evam Uktam Uttamotamam Sthavam
Pathan Smaran Bruvan Naro Vishuddhim Eti Santatam
Hare Gurau Subhaktim Aashu Yati Naanyatha Gatim
Vimohanam Hi Dehinam Su Shankarasya Chintanam (3 Times)

Imam Idam – This, Nityam – Daily/ Continuously, Evam – In this manner, Uktam – Told / Uttered, Uttamotamam – Best of best, Sthavam – Praise , Pathan – Read, Smaran – Remember, Bruvanna – telling, Nara – Human, Vishuddhim – Purification, Eti – he gets, Santatam – Continuously, Hare – In Shiva, Gurau – Spiritual Perceptor, Subhakti – Great devotion, Aashu – fast, Yati nanyata Gatim – Advance towards, Vimohanam – Confusion, Dehinam – Human, Su Shankarasya Chintanam – Meditate deeply on Shiva

And thus the greatest Hymn of Shiva has been chanted. Those who contemplate on Shiva and chant this regularly with purity of mind in an uninterrupted manner will quickly advance towards him. There is no other way or refuge. The delusion of that person will be destroyed by deep contemplation and meditation on lord Shiva.

Slow Chanting

Om Namah Shivaya

YouTube Links to Chant along 

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Explore Dandeli from the friendly Amara homestay

10 Feb

Most people associate Dandeli with white water rafting. Yes – its true that in S India this is probably the only white water rafting spot, there is a lot more to explore in this beautiful place. This area is located in the North West of Karnataka, bordering Goa and close to Maharashtra. Vast expanse of thick W Ghats evergreen forests bustling with wildlife, energising streams and waterfalls, simple good people  – and all of this in an environment that is clean, Eco friendly and sparsely populated. The Blue Triangle in Picture 2 is the place I am referring to.

We explored all of this in 4 days from Amara Homestay. A great discovery that stands out on 3 areas

  • A genuinely warm and friendly homestay that believes and implements Eco Tourism – where the concept of Atithi Devo Bhava is practised to perfection
  • Great location – the only homestay in the heart of the Kali Tiger Reserve
  • Outstanding Veg food – made fresh and served piping hot. Wide variety that is wholesome and tasty

The Hegde’s own a 10 acre farm that has been part of the family for the last 500 years. Currently 4 generations live together happily. While farming is the core occupation, they started the homestay business about 12 years back. This is the best place to soak in the atmosphere of a N Karnataka Brahmin Havyaka community and relish Malnad Veg cuisine.They speak Konkani & Havyaka Kannada. We relished Kottai Idli, Kadabu, Rice Ajwain Patta, Tambli, Brahmi & Kokum juice and many more delicious dishes. Recipes from Archana (Click here for Recipes)


Everything here is fresh and natural. The food is grown locally in the farm – fully organic no chemicals, the water is natural spring water rich in minerals, milk is from their cows, the spices are ground fresh every day

Thats what keeps the locals healthy and strong. In the 4 days we spent here I did not see a single hospital or pharmacy store. On enquiry I learnt that there are no allopathy doctors in these villages. Everyone relies on grandmothers home made Ayurvedic potion and for serious issues like a snake bite there is an Ayurvedic doctor in the village

Getting here is easy

06589 Bangalore Mirajpur train leaves SBC at 9 PM and reaches Alnavar Junction at 6.30 AM. The ride from Alnavar to Amara is about 90 Min. You will reach your destination before 9AM and a hearty breakfast awaits you. The return journey on 06590 Mirajpur Bangalore is equally convenient – the train leaves Alnavar at 8PM and reached Bangalore at 6.30AM. Train operates every day.

This is not Dandeli 

While everyone refers to this area as Dandeli – you are actually not in proper Dandeli town. Amara is located in Gund Village inside the Kali Tiger reserve forest. It is very conveniently located to all the major attractions that are 20 – 30 kms from there. Here is a not to scale visual representation of the area you will cover

 

This is Kali River territory

The Kali river is a short 184 km river. But it is ferocious. It originates from an underwater spring on the Goa – Karnataka border. Numerous springs and streams from the hills add to its flow. The heavy rains in the W Ghats adds to its charm and intensity.  The word “Kali” is not a reference to the Godess but to the black stones on the riverbed that gives the pure water a black colour. The river flows mainly through thick jungles and is not accessible for most of its course. In a short span of 50 Kms it has 5 dams and the 2nd largest backwater catchment area in Asia. Two of the dams store water for the Kaiga Nuclear reactors. The river then finds its way to the Arabian Sea along the Karwar coast.

This is also a Tiger Reserve 

The forest area around here was notified as the Kali Tiger reserve about 8 years back. Post that no new homestay / construction activity is allowed. Existing homestay continue to operate with limited capacity. Amara is the only operating homestay from within the Kali Tiger reserve.

Planning your time here – sights to see 

Ajit who runs the day to day operations at Amara put together a plan for us to maximise coverage of the sights. Each day we covered two areas.

Morning 9 AM  – 1.30 PM  session 1 , followed by lunch and a brief siesta and then the 2nd session from 3 PM to 6.30 PM. Our man Friday was Uday – the driver + Guide who went out of the way to show us the sights of the place and also spot a black panther and leopard.

Day – 1 : Morning session, Trek to a beautiful waterfall thru thick forests

These are sights which only the locals know. The drive was about 45 minutes and then a 1 hr trek ( up & down) to a beautiful waterfall that originates from an underground spring, the rivulet then joins the Kaneri river – one of the main tributaries of the Kali river. This waterfall is full of water all 12 months. On the trek we spotted many snakes peeping out of their holes. Take a change of clothes as you will enter the waterfalls and get drenched

Day – 1 : Post Lunch session, Boat ride to the Supa Dam backwaters and beautiful islands, Sunset viewing 

A nice drive thru dense forests we reach the vast expanse of backwaters of Supa Dam dotted with beautiful islands. The place is vast and not a soul in sight. But yes we spotted numerous birds and at least 20 of the rare Hornbills. The islands are calm and serene and a great place to view the sunset. On the way back Uday ensured that we started late and were driving around 7 PM – thats the time when you get a chance to spot the animals, we were lucky in spotting a rare Black Panther crossing the road.

Day – 2 : Morning session, Whitewater rafting

The white water resort that offers multiple activities is about 35 Kms from Amara ( 75 min drive). It was not crowded even on a Sunday. We took the 30 min, 1 km option for Rs 450/- which gets you a feel of a level 3 Rapid. We went by the same rapid  3 times. A longer option is a 8 Km rafting session across multiple rapids that takes a few hrs. This is priced at Rs 1450. Compared to the Rishikesh experience this was a cakewalk – very safe, so go for it. If you are wondering who took this photo – Rs 1400 extra gets you a professional photographer to shoot you as you tumble down the rapid and the guide on his iPro gives you a video of your rafting session. As expected this area is clean but commercial and crowded. Take a change of clothes. 

Day – 2 : Post Lunch , Syntheri Rocks 

This is a nice view point located about 7 Km from Amara. The drive is less than 30 minutes. Its a walk down 200 steep steps to view the Kaneri river cut thru a steep cliff.

On the way back we stopped at an isolated location in the Anshi Forest and trekked thru dense jungle to the Kaneri river. The water level here during the rains rises by over 20 feet covering all the rocks, but now it was nice and calm. A great way to spend a few hours in the scenic beauty of the river surrounded by forests.

Day – 3 : You have two options 

Option – 1 : Dudhsagar 

My colleagues headed to Dudhsagar which is a full day trip. You drive to the Goa border and then the contact picks you up by jeep from there. You can then trek 26 Km (up and down) or drive all the way to Dudhsagar (1 Km trek). The 26 Km trek can be thru dense forests or along the rail track. If you decide to trek, it can be very tiring. You leave by 5.30 AM and get back at 9 PM, remember to carry water / snacks – there is no food on the route. Best time to Visit Dudhsagar is Sep – Nov immediately after the rains.

Option – 2 : Nature walk – Visit to the River etc

I stayed back and soaked in the atmosphere of the homestay. Spoke to the family members had meals in their house. Morning was spent in nature walk spotting birds and rare plants followed by a walk thru the Hegde’s 10 acre farm. Thats when you realise that life in a farm is hard work. You need to be multifaceted to manage the work all year around. They are so self sufficient that even 70% of their LPG needs are met from their Gobar gas plant.

In the evening we visited a neighbouring farm who are lucky to have the river flow along their border. How lucky can you get. I enjoyed my solitude sitting by the river and listening to the gurgling rapids.

Day – 4 : Jeeva Samadhi of Chinna Basaveshwara & trek to Akkal Gavi Caves 

The Jeeva samadhi of  the youth saint Chinna Basaveshwara is at Ulavi – 14 Km from Amara. This is a very famous site for the Lingayat’s of N Karnataka. A few Km from here is a trek to the Akka Nagamma caves. This is the place where Akka Nagamma hid her son (Chinna Basaveshwara) from the soldiers of the sultan who were trying to kill him (Around 1100 AD). The trek is a long one – but not difficult. There are 3 sets of caves. While there is a proper trail and steps – this is again thru dense forests.

You come back from the trek have lunch, a short nap and then by 4.30 you are ready to leave, to catch your train at Alnavar. On the way you may want to explore Shivaji’s fort (we did not) – but we did stop by the Crocodile park – that was disappointing.

So what we could not cover this trip 

  • The Jungle safari at Potoli gate Tiger reserve that operates between 6 – 8AM & 4 – 6PM
  • Shivpura Hanging bridge and Satodi Falls trek – Great place for sunset viewing
  • Diggi Hills – the source of the Kali River

I am sure I will come back to complete the list. Our friendly guide assured us that there were many more offbeat places to see which only the locals knew about. Best time to travel is April & Oct / Nov. April the hills are full of flowers and Oct / Nov the rivers are overflowing.

A few more points as you plan the trip 

  • Take the train – don’t drive from Bangalore – its a long 11 hr drive. You lose 2 days in the process. Train is convenient and you need a local jeep / guide to show you the places
  • Network coverage is poor – this is BSNL land. While Amara provides BSNL Wi Fi you will not get coverage on your Airtel / Voda / Jio phones.
  • The rooms are clean, functional & basic. Each cottage has a twin bed and a single bed + a mattress to accommodate a 4th person. Soap & towel are provided by Amara. Carry your toiletries. You get hot water and nice views.  Remember this is a homestay not a hotel
  • This is not a place for wild parties, loud music and liquor. Food is pure Veg. Respect the communities way of life.
  • The treks can be steep, carry good shoes. Carry change of clothes – the waterfalls and rafting will make you wet. Pack a rubber waterproof sandal – the river bed and waterfall area is rocky – good to have a footwear.
  • Carry water / snacks on the treks – there are no shops around these places. Carry your medicines.
  • Dont forget to pack your binoculars – lots of birds to watch
  • This place is not at an altitude – but the dense greenery and rivers make it cold. Max temperature is 35 degrees. Nov – Feb can be cold. Minimum temp in Jan can be 6 – 7 degrees. Carry some warm clothes and socks. Especially if you are planning early morning trips
  • This is a place you will feel like visiting again and again – a group of friends from Pune have visited Amara over 20 times.
  • Most people who visit them are from Maharashtra / Belgaum / Hubli / Dharwad – Bangaloreans are yet to discover this place
  • Roads are in great condition – they are almost empty so people go fast. While its not hilly terrain many roads are curvy and zig zag. Restrooms are a challenge – that’s why you do morning and evening sessions and head back to Amara for lunch.
  • Carry something for the Hegde’s – the 4th generation kid Atharva is very cute and you will feel bad if you don’t carry some goodies for them. Remember they treat you like family – so you better reciprocate
  • This place is real Value for money – Rs 1600/- per person / day inclusive of all meals (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner / Tea/ Coffee / Fresh Juices / Snacks). You rent a jeep that can accommodate 8 people – for Rs 2800/day , driver cum guide extraordinary comes free
  • Go as a group of 6 – 7 people, thats more fun

And one more thing…. 

The word Amara has two meanings, it means immortal – it also stands for the initials of the owners Ajit – Mangala – Ramchandran. Ajit has a Masters in Hotel Management and his wife Rachna in Fine Arts. The family is an ideal, happy, contended family. They are good people who work hard, lead a simple life and serve you like family.When you travel to a place like this staying in a homestay is such a great learning experience, dont miss that.

So do spare a few days and go visit them – Amara Homestay, PO Gund, Via Dandeli. https://dandeliamara.com

 

4 Generations of the Hegde family 

 

Some more Views from the trip …..

Everyone concentrating on breakfast

 

That is Kottai Idli and the freshest coconut chutney, the red liquid is jaggery syrup made at home

 

A view of the room 

 

The waterfall we visited on Day 1

 

Backwaters of Supa Dam

 

Helping accumulate the Arecanut 

Piping hot Neer Dosas being made on a 100 year old metal Tava by Mangala Ji 

 

Skill at work 

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A simple narration of Bangalore’s history over the last 2000 years

13 Dec

How many of us know the History of Bangalore? I got the first glimpse and interesting insights from Sushma of Yours Truly India when I was helping her conduct walking tours. That triggered me to research and come up with something that is easy to read in a Q&A format and studded with interesting highlights. I encourage you to go through this 10 Minute read and share it with your children, family & friends.

To get you started here are some fun facts from the Blog

  • Do you know where Shivaji was married? 
  • Bangalore was sold by Aurangzeb to the Wodeyars – Guess for how much?
  • There is a reason that Malleshwaram and Basavangudi are on hilly terrain 
  • Do you know why Cubbon Park was built?
  • The iconic Taj West End started as a boarding house with 10 beds
  • Learn about Swami Vivekananda’s connection with IISC
  • Bellandur lake was a seaplane landing strip during WW 2 in 1942……. 
  • The grand Vidhan Soudha was built at a cost that is cheaper than a 3 Bedroom apartment today

 

Who ruled Bangalore for the longest period in the last 2000 years? Hint its not the Wodeyars    

The longest tenure was with the Western Ganga Dynasty from 350 – 1000 AD. They asserted their rule after the weakening of the Pallava empire. For the 1st 200 years they ruled a large area called Gangawadi, but after 550 AD when the Chalukyas and later the Rastrakutas and Hoysala’s dominated the south they became their vassals. Their capital was initially Kolar and later shifted to Talakad and then Manne (Near Neelmangala)

The mighty Cholas ruled Bangalore for only a century

The Cholas defeated the Gangas in 1024, but their rule was a short one for barely a century. But during this brief period many Chola temples were built in and around Bangalore. In 1117 AD The Hoysala King Vishnuvardhan defeated the Cholas in the battle of Talakad and Bangalore became a part of the Hoysala empire.

The Bhoga Nandeeshwara temple near Nandi Hills built in early 9th century,is a good example of how different dynasties expanded on the existing temples. The shrine of Arunachaleshwara representing Shiva in his childhood it was built by the Gangas, Uma Maheshwar was built by the Hoysalas and Bhoga Nadeeshwara was built by the Cholas. The Vijayanagara kings also added to the splendour of the temple.

 

Is the name “Bengaluru” attributed to a tired and lost Hoysala king being fed boiled beans by an old lady?

The Popular Tale Of Bengalooru getting Its Name From ‘Bende Kaalu Ooru‘ Meaning ‘Town Of Boiled Beans’, After King Veera Ballala II Of The Hoysala Dynasty In 1120 AD was fed boiled beans by an old woman in the forest is historically incorrect. The Name ‘Bengalooru’  was recorded in a 9th Century inscription found in a temple in Begur village near Bangalore. 

The ancestors of Kempe Gowda came from Kanchipuram?

Legend traces the lineage of Kempegowda to a Rana Byre Gowda, a resident of Alur village in Kanchipuram, TN. He decided to migrate from there at the end of the 13th century with his 7 brothers and family and settled in Avati village near Devanahalli Bangalore.

Kempe Gowda – 1 was a feudatory of the Vijaynagar empire.  He and his sons administered this area for almost a 100 years and they saw the development of Bangalore as a planned and structured city. They were collectively called Yelahanka Nada Prabhus, and were chiefs of Bangalore, Magadi and Sivaganga.

Why is Kempe Gowda called the founder of Bangalore? 

In the 16th century, Vijayanagar Empire was at its peak under the rule of Krishna Deva Raya, with Hampi as its capital city. The empire was ruled by many Chieftains who owed allegiance to the emperor. Yelahankanadu (It is today called Yelahanka) was one such prosperous town ruled by a Chieftain (Nada Prabhu) named Kempe Gowda. Upon his visit to Hampi sometime during the mid 1530s, he was mesmerised by the glory of the rich city and its sophisticated layout & planning. Being a Nada Prabhu himself, he dreamt of building such a city with fort, temples, water tanks and people from all trades & professions.

How did Kempe Gowda initiate the development of Bangalore?

During one of his hunting expeditions in the forest area adjoining Yelahankanadu, he saw a rabbit chasing a dog, which was perceived as an auspicious sign.After seeking permission & blessings from Achyutharaya (King of Vijayanagar Empire), Kempe Gowda spent the next few years establishing Bangalore as a thriving city with commerce, culture, military & education. The capital was then shifted from Yelahanka to Bangalore by Kempe Gowda 1. The king was very pleased with the new city and in return gifted him the villages of Halasur, Begur, Vartur, Jigani, Talaghattapur, Kumbalagode, Kengeri and Banavar all yielding an annual revenue of 30,000 pagodas (a pagoda – gold or silver coin was worth 3 1⁄2 rupees in 1818.)

How was the original Bangalore layout created? 

On a bright sunny morning in 1537 AD, 4 pairs of white bullocks with decorated ploughs, assembled in the middle of the forest at the junction between dodapette and chikapete were waiting for further orders. At an auspicious time, as Kempe Gowda flagged off the event, these 4 pairs driven by young men started furrowing the ground in 4 cardinal directions. The routes ploughed by these bullocks were marked as the main streets of this new city. Even 500 years later today, these streets are still buzzing with activity.

The street running east-west was named Chikkapete street & the north- south street was named Doddapete street (later renamed as “Avenue Road”)

To guard this new city, Kempe Gowda built a strong mud fort with 4 main gates for entry/exit. The entire fort was surrounded by moat (ditch filled with water). The city itself was only on 1.5 square kilometres of land

To streamline activities of traders, he hit upon an interesting plan of forming several layouts, each catering to a certain trade or profession. Doddapete was for large businesses (Dodda means large in Kannada) and Chikkapete was for smaller businesses (Chikka means small). For rice traders, there was Akkipete. Ragipete for ragi traders. Balepete for bangle traders, Ganigarapete for oil traders, Nagarthapete for Gold traders, Gollarpete for cowherds & cattle traders, Kurubarapete for sheep traders, Thigalarapete for farmers of Tigala community Upparapete for salt traders, Aralepete (now Cottonpete) for cotton traders, Kumbarapete for pot traders and many more such petes. (These petes still exist )

Kempe Gowda and his sons did a lot between 1537 and 1638 and deserve to be called the founders of Bangalore

Temples : Kempe Gowda built many Temples including Bull Temple (in Basavanagudi), Anjenaya Temple (at Avenue road entrance) Gavi Gangadhareshwar Temple and Ulsoor Someshwara temple (made additions to the existing structure built by the Cholas)

Watch Towers: Kempe Gowda II erected four watch towers to mark the boundaries of Bangalore during his reign. All four towers are now in the heart of the city, standing as an indication of its expansion. In the north on Bellary road, in the South inside the Lalbagh Botanical Gardens, the eastern one on a rock near Ulsoor lake and Western one overlooks the Kempambudhi tank.

Tanks: In order to supply water for domestic & irrigational purposes, Kempe Gowda built several water tanks & reservoirs around the fortified city. Dharmambudi (present majestic bus stand) & Kempambudhi tanks were built for domestic purposes while Sampangi tank was for irrigation. Apart from these, there were also several lakes in and around Bangalore.

The Kempe Gowdas built 9 Forts to fortify Bangalore – many of them are favourite trekking zones today?

Some of the forts are very popular amongst the public, like Savandurga, Nandidurga alias Nandi Hills, Makalidurga and Devarayanadurga. The lesser known ones amongst them are Hutridurga, Huliyurdurga, Channarayana durga, Kabbaladurga and Bairavadurga which are visited by the villagers surrounding the place or by avid trekkers, who are on the lookout to experience the thrill of the off beat path. These forests are in a dilapidated state today.

What is Bangalore’s connect with the Marathas?

Shivaji’s father Shahji Bhonsle working for Adil Shah of the Bijapur sultanate attacked Kempe Gowda and captured Bangalore. Shahji negotiated a treaty by which Kempegowda surrendered Bangalore fort and its surroundings. Kempegowda withdrew to Magadi and would be referred to as Magadi Kempe Gowda. Bangalore was given to Shahji as his personal jagir, a reward for his role in the victory. The acquisition of Bangalore by Bijapur in 1638 is significant for it was after the city came into the hands of Shahji that it became a centre for Maratha activities

Shivaji was married in Bangalore 

While Shahji was in Bangalore he sent for Shivaji and Jijabai (1st wife). Shivaji stayed in Bangalore from 1640 to 1642 and married Saibai Nimbalkar around the age of 12 after which he was given the Poona Jagir to which he returned.

How did Aurangzeb annex Bangalore?

A lot of battles took place both internal conflict (between Shahji and the Bijapur ruler) and outside with Kantirava Wodeyar and other rulers. Shahji died in Bangalore after a fall from a horse in 1664. Over political issues and conflict Venkoji shifted his capital to Tanjore. The Mughals under the leadership of Aurangzeb proceeded towards south and captured Bangalore in 1689

Lets have a quick recap on the Wodeyar dynasty

The Wodeyar dynasty was founded as a feudatory principality in 1399, which grew into the Kingdom of Mysore. The Wodeyars ruled that kingdom almost uninterruptedly between 1399 and 1947; they ruled initially as vassals of the Vijayanagara Empire (1399–1565), then as independent rulers (1565–1761), then as puppet rulers under Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan (1761–1796) and finally as allies of the British crown (1799–1947)

Was Bangalore actually sold for the equivalent of Rs 3 Lacs to the Wodeyars in 1689?

Venkoji faced with defeat against the Mughals started negotiating with the Wodeyar king Chikka Devraja Wodeyar the sale of Bangalore for Rs 3 Lacs. However the Wodeyar king aligned and supported the Mughals, as a reward Aurangazeb sold Bangalore to the Wodeyar’s for the same amount. So 1689 was the first time that the Wodeyars became rulers of Bangalore.

Who was Chikka Devaraja Wodeyar and why is he important to the development of Bangalore?

Chikka Devaraja Wodeyar was the 14th ruler of the Mysore dynasty. He was known for his friendship with Aurangzeb, which helped Mysore become a tributary state (one with no administrative curbs or interference by the ruling hegemon) under the Mughal rule. At the same time, he earned Maratha admiration by defeating Shivaji  in a cavalry battle. He earned the title of Apratima Vira for his valour and shrewdness in dealing with both the Marathas and the Mughals. He was also responsible for establishing the postal system and the Attara Kacheri in the city and built the Kote Venkataramana Temple in Chamarajpet.

How did Haider Ali establish a brief 30 year period of sultanate type rule in the south?

Hyder Ali was a petty office in the Nizam’s army. As a warrior he proved his mettle in the 1750’s against the Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao (Marathas). When the Nizam was assassinated, a lot of confusion followed and in the midst of the chaos, Hyder Ali’s services attracted the attention of the minister of the Raja of Mysore. But in a series of fascinating events where the Machiavellian Haidar ran with the hare and hunted with the hounds, he ended up overthrowing his own benefactor and usurping the throne of Mysore from the Wodeyars in 1761. Haidar was shrewd enough not to dispense with the Wodeyars who had been ruling Hindu-majority Mysore since 1399. The maharaja was a titular puppet.

Haider Ali and his son Tipu Sultan ruled a large part of South India from Srirangapatna for a brief period of 30 years from 1761 – 1799. They also had palaces and forts in Bangalore. After Haider’s death in 1782 Tipu continued the war against the Marathas and English. In 1791 under Lord Cornwallis Tipu was defeated and driven out of Bangalore. The city was now taken over by the British. Later in 1799 Tipu was killed at Srirangapatna.

Did you know that Lalbagh was established by Haider Ali?

Hyder Ali commissioned the building of this garden in 1760 but Tipu completed it and later adorned it with unique plant species. In his book Heritage Trees, naturalist Vijay Thiruvady writes that before the 1800s, the Bengaluru plateau was largely barren except for Lalbagh, with a few groves around temples and village commons. It was called ‘the naked country’.

So how did Bangalore comes back to the Wodeyars?

Upon the passing of Tipu Sultan in 1799, the Wodeyars returned to the throne of Mysore, and therefore Bangalore, although only as figureheads. Bengaluru remained part of British East India until Indian independence in August, 1947.

The ‘Residency’ of Mysore State was first established at Mysore in 1799 and later shifted to Bengaluru in the year 1804. It was abolished in the year 1843 only to be revived in 1881 at Bengaluru and finally to be closed down in 1947 with the departure of the British

The Wodeyars and British in close alignment developed Bangalore and Mysore state as an ideal state

Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodiyar IV ( 1884 –  1940) was the twenty-fourth maharaja of the Kingdom of Mysore. At the time of his death, he was one of the world’s wealthiest men, with a personal fortune estimated in 1940 to be worth US$400 million, equivalent to $7 billion at 2018 prices. He was a philosopher-king, who was seen by Paul Brunton as living the ideal expressed in Plato’s Republic. He has been compared to Emperor Ashoka by the English statesman Lord Samuel. Acknowledging Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV’s noble and efficient kingship, Lord John Sankey declared in 1930 at the Round Table Conference in London, “Mysore is the best administered state in the world“. His contribution to Bangalore is immense and long – a few notable ones being the K.R.Market, School of engineering Bangalore, Raman research Institute, IISC.

Why did the British soldiers move from Srirangapatna to Bangalore? 

The British troops which were first stationed at Srirangapatna after the fall of Tipu Sultan in 1799 were later shifted to the Civil and Military Station of Bangalore in 1809.

Mysore was hot and malaria infested. The salubrious climate of Bangalore attracted the ruling class and led to the establishment of the famous Military Cantonment, a city-state close to the old town of Bangalore. The area became not only a military base for the British but also a settlement for a large number of Europeans, Anglo-Indians and missionaries.

Why are the names of many streets in Bangalore derived from military nomenclature?

In Cantonment, the names of many of its streets are derived from military nomenclature — Artillery Road, Brigade Road, Infantry Road and Cavalry Road. The South Parade (now known as Mahatma Gandhi Road) was to the south of the Parade Ground. The Plaza theatre was constructed in the year 1936 on the South Parade and was used by the soldiers for viewing Hollywood movies. The British representative maintained a residence within the cantonment area and his quarters was called the Residency and hence the name Residency Road. Around 1883, three developments were added to the cantonment – Richmond Town, Benson Town and Cleveland Town. The Cantonment has retained it distinct atmosphere through the years with large populations of Anglo-Indians and Tamils from the British era.

How was British rule beneficial to Bangalore?

Bangalore saw rapid development under the British Commissioners. Infrastructure, Law & Order, Education under Missionaries, and Health Services were improved under the direct administration of the British. The Wodeyars were in full alignment with the British and there was finally peace in the region. The 1857 mutiny which was strong in N & Central India had no impact in Bangalore

Did you know that Bangalore was the first city in Asia to get Electric Street Lights?

Thanks to the Maharajas of Mysore for being visionaries and putting Mysore state in the forefront of the industrialisation, Bangalore was the first city in undivided India and even Asia to get electricity. Asia’s first hydel power station was set up at the foot of the Shivanasamudra falls. This was done primarily to supply power to Kolar Gold Fields. The power lines went through Bangalore and since there was excess power being generated it was used to light up the streets of Bangalore. On the evening of August 5, 1905, it had blazed to life at the flick of a switch by Sir John Hewett of the Viceroys’ Council – inspiring awe among the townsfolk, when the rest of India was lit up by oil lamps. Below is the photo of the street lamp that was lit that day. It still exists near the KR Market flyover.

Whats the history behind Cubbon park?

The old city built by Kempegowda and the new Cantonment built by the British for its officers and soldiers was quite a distance by walk / carriage. There was a lot of movement between these two places and hence it was decided to create a rest area for the people. Thus was born Cubbon park. The Cubbon Park has a history of over 100 years. It was established in the year 1870 by Sri John Meade, the then acting Commissioner of Mysore. The vast landscape of the park was conceived by Major General Richard Sankey, the then Chief Engineer of the State. As a mark of honor to Sri John Meade, the park was initially named as “Meade’s Park” and subsequently it was called the Cubbon Park.

Right next to the Cubbon Park is the St Marks Cathedral. It began as a garrison church in 1808 of the Madras Army of the East India Company. The foundation stone was laid in 1808, and construction was completed in 1812.The church was consecrated by the Bishop of Calcutta in 1816. The church was expanded in 1901, and went through reconstruction in 1927 after the fire of 1923.

The great famine of 1876 – 1878

A severe famine hit the Bombay, Mysore and Madras presidencies. The death toll was alarming.The mortality in Mysore Presidency was appalling, reaching the terrible total of 1,250,000, one-fourth of the population of the province. More than 5 lakh bullocks, buffaloes, sheep and goats died alongside. Bangalore became a heaven for the huge influx of people who migrated for food and work from other parts of the state. These people were engaged in civil works and in turn were paid in grains. Around 20,000 migrants were employed for constructing the Bangalore Mysore railway line. New tanks were constructed and renovation and repair of old tanks were also taken up in a war footing manner.

How Bangalore weathered the great Plague of 1898

The most documented and dreaded outbreak in India was of bubonic plague (1896-1899) that spread terror across Bombay and Calcutta Presidencies, Mysore State, Dharwad and Hyderabad. There were 36,381 seizures in Bombay, 7,176 in Bangalore and around 36,459 in Dharwad. That wiped out almost 10 percent of Bengaluru’s population. Strict control was established, houses were marked, stations and trains were sanitised and Inoculation drives were started city wide. But people were scared to visit hospitals – on account of religious bias a Brahmin did not want to share a ward with a lower caste. People were scared of inoculation. The disease spread widely and caused havoc. Post the plague people were requested to move from the densely populated areas of the Petes to the newly created colonies of Malleswaram and Basavangudi. There was resistance. But the few who moved – their ancestors will thank them for their wise decision.

Why are Malleshwaram and Basavangudi on hilly terrain?

Most of the city was under the authorities of the British Cantonment in the 19th century, and had various well-planned layouts such as Richmond Town, Cox Town and Benson Town. The Wadiyar government planned and executed similar planned layouts in 1880s, leading to the formation of Basavanagudi and Malleswaram

Just as Basavanagudi layout was named after the Basavanna temple, Malleswaram was named after the Kadu Mallikarjuna (Malleswara) temple. These layouts were founded in 1889 as an alternative to the crowded Pete area which was low lying and prone to flooding and disease. The Wodeyar’s of the Mysore kingdom wanted to provide a modern lifestyle to all communities, in which they could live in hygienic conditions.

Interestingly, both these new layouts were created on foothills: Basavanagudi lies on the foothills of the Bull Temple, Bugle Rock and Lal Bagh, while Malleswaram is on the foothills of the Kempegowda watchtower and Palace Guttahalli. This was a strategic design to avoid flooding and disease.

Why was the Victoria hospital named after Queen Victoria?

The plague resulted in a health officer being appointed for the first time in the City. The Victoria Hospital was inaugurated by Lord Curzon, the then Governor General in 1900 to help the plague victims. The foundation stone for the hospital was laid in 1897. This year was important because it marked the completion of 60 years of Queen Victoria’s rule. The Victoria Hospital was christened in the honour of the diamond jubilee of Queen Victoria. Initially it had 100 beds – but is now one of the largest hospitals in S India.

How was Swami Vivekananda involved in setting  up IISC?

The Indian Institute of Science was set up in 1909, laying the foundation for Bangalore becoming the “Science Capital” of the country.

The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) was conceived as a ́Research Institute ́ by Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata, in the final years of the 19th century. A long period of almost thirteen years was to elapse from the initial conception in 1896 to the birth of the institute on May 27, 1909. The people who made it happen include – its charismatic and generous founder J.N. Tata, Swami Vivekananda (whom J.N. Tata befriended on his famous voyage to the United States) the Maharaja of Mysore, Shri Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV and his mother then acting on his behalf, and Lord Curzon the Viceroy of India,

Swami Vivekananda and Tata met during a voyage to the US aboard the steamship SS Empress of India. Tata was on his way to test his bags of Indian soil for iron content in Germany. Swami Vivekananda discouraged this stating the European nations will not support this and discourage anything indigenous. He asked Tata to come up with a research institute in India itself, and train Indians for this. Originally the institute was to be setup in Bombay. The Noble prize winning scientist Ramsey was asked to tour India to find the best place conducive to research. He suggested Bangalore, but Tata favoured Bombay. Johns Hopkins University in the U.S. was taken as the model.  The Mysore government would, in the end, provide more than 371 acres of land for the institute, as well as grants to help set it up. This help from the Mysore government also ensured that the institute was situated in Bangalore.

Did you know that Mahatma Gandhi visited Bangalore many times. 

He visited the city five times between 1915 and 1940. An ailing Mahatma Gandhi stayed at Nandi Hills for 45 days in 1936 to recuperate from a spell of high blood pressure. The guest house atop Nadi Hills is still called Gandhi Bhawan.

Winston Churchill lived in Bangalore and got bored

In October 1896 Winston Churchill reached Bangalore, then not a bustling megapolis but a small, sleepy, cantonment town. He liked the climate: ‘the sun even at midday is temperate and the mornings and evenings are fresh and cool’. He liked the house alloted to him: ‘a magnificent pink and white stucco palace in the middle of a large and beautiful garden’. And he was well served by his staff, who included a gardener, a water-carrier, a dhobi, and a watchman.

After eight months in Bangalore the young subaltern wrote to his mother summing up his life there. ‘Poked away in a garrison town which resembles a 3rd rate watering place, out of season and without the sea, with lots of routine work and … without society or good sport—half my friends on leave and the other half ill—my life here would be intolerable were it not for the consolations of literature….’. Churchill still owes the Bangalore Club a princely sum of Rs 13.

Bangalore club was established in 1868, named the Bangalore United Services Club for officers of the British Empire. In 1915, membership was opened to Indian officers. Membership for civilians was opened in 1946, and the club was renamed the Bangalore Club.

Bangalore Palace was built in 1878 by the British using the Maharaja’s money – The property was purchased from Rev. Garrett in 1873 at a cost of Rs. 40,000 by the British Guardians of the minor Maharaja using his personal funds. They were in charge of his education and administrative training to ready him to take over his reign in 1881 AD. As the young Maharaja did not have a suitable place to stay during his training in Bengaluru, this property was purchased and transformed. Construction of a palace building was started in April 1874 and completed by 1878. The palace was built in Tudor Revival style architecture with fortified towers, battlements and turrets. The interiors were decorated with elegant wood carvings, floral motifs, cornices and relief paintings on the ceiling. The furniture was neo-classical, Victorian and Edwardian in style.The palace has a floor area of 45,000 sft, and grounds of 454 acres

 

What happened to the lakes and gardens of Bangalore?

Bangalore once had 141 lakes of which seven cannot be traced, seven are recognisable as small pools of water, 18 have been unauthorisedly occupied by slums and private parties, 14 have dried up and are leased out by the Government. In the area where there were once 28 lakes (in different locations, of course), the Bangalore Development Authority has distributed sites and built extensions. The remaining 67 lakes are in fairly advanced state of deterioration.

  • The Siddikatte Lake has now become the bustling City Market
  • Sampangi tank now houses the Kanteerava Sports Stadium
  • Dharmambudhi is now the busy Kempe Gowda Bus Stand
  • The Karanji tank is the Gandhi Bazar area
  • Kempambudhi is now a sewerage collection tank
  • Chennamma tank a burial ground
  • Akkithimmanahalli tank is the Corporation Hockey Stadium
  • Jakkarayanakere is also converted into a sports ground
  • Miller Tank area houses the Guru Nanak Bhavan, schools, and several buildings.

It was only in 1894 that Bangalore city got clean protected water supply. Prior to this, unfiltered water was being supplied to Bangalore in the Karanjee system from a number of tanks viz., Dharmambudi, Sampangi, Ulsoor etc, supplemented by local wells and Kalyanis or Stepped Ponds. In the year 1894, the first protected water supply scheme “Chamarajendra Water Works” was started by Sir.K.Seshadri Iyer, the then Dewan of erstwhile Mysore province. The source of water was Hesarghatta lake on Arkavathi River.

In his travel account of 1800, Francis Buchanan refers to the greenery of Bangalore owing to its vegetable farms, coconut gardens, beetle leaf farms, and flower gardens. Today most of these gardens have given way to residential localities which have retained the old names such as Chikkanna Gardens, Tulasi Thota, Wilson Gardens, Yellappa Gardens, Sankamma Thota, Rudrappa Garden, Mavina Thota (Banashankari), Pillanna Gardens, Thengina Thotada Raste (Coconut Garden Road), Margosa Road, and Sampige Road.

Some more developments since 1840 

  • The first printing-press in Bangalore was established in the year 1840. In 1859, Bangalore Herald became the first English bi-weekly newspaper to be published in Bangalore and in 1860, Mysore Vrittanta Bodhini became the first Kannada newspaper to be circulated in Bangalore
  • Girls’ Education – Mysore state was one of the most progressive regions in pre-independent India. It was a pioneer in establishing modern systems of education; the London Mission was the first girls’ school in the state, established in Bangalore city in 1840.
  • The Raj Bhavan (known as Residency earlier) was built by Sir Mark Cubbon (the Commissioner of Mysore territories of the British) in 1840-1842.
  • At the east end of M G Road, what used to be known as Parade Grounds, lies the Holy Trinity Church, a Protestant church built in 1852 to accommodate the increasing English speaking congregation in the Cantonment area of Bangalore.
  • 1864 Bangalore gets a train line – Bangalore mail starts running to Cantonment station, probably the first regular named train service in India.
  • Attara Kacheri (literally means 18 government offices), located at the entrance to the Cubbon Park was built in 1864 A.D. It is a two storied stone structure in an intense red hue, with Corinthian (most ornate of the Roman architecture) columns in Gothic Style of architecture. The Public offices (Secretariat of the Government of Karnataka) were located here from 1868 AD to 1956 AD, which were later moved to the Vidhana Soudha. The building now accommodates the Karnataka High Court.

  • Bangalore City Municipality established in 1862 when the city’s population was just over 1 Lac. The BCM’s revenue for the year 1862-63, according to the Karnataka Gazette, was Rs 21,981.
  • St. Mary’s Basilica located in Shivajinagar, is the oldest church in the city, which dates back to 1685. It used to be a small chapel, which was rebuilt by Abbe Dubois, who came to Bangalore after Tipu Sultan was defeated at Srirangapatna. As it stands today, it was built between 1875 and 1882 at a total cost of Rs 30,000.
  • St. Joseph’s College was founded in 1882 by the Fathers of the French Foreign Mission. The Foreign Missions Society of Paris bought a plot of land on St. John’s Hill and gradually made the transition to the location it occupies today.
  • Whitefield established in 1882 – On the 27th April, 1882, His Highness, Chamaraja Wodeyar, the Maharaja of Mysore, granted 3,900 acres (16 km2) of land to the Eurasian and Anglo-Indian Association, Mysore and Coorg (E&AI) for the establishment of agricultural Settlements at Whitefield (then Mysore state)
  • The Central College, Bengaluru was started in 1886 by the British government to award University Degrees. It was renamed as the Bangalore University by the University Grants Commission on 10 July 1964
  • In 1887, a British woman named Mrs. Bronson started a boarding house with 10 beds. As the popularity of the first hotel in the city grew, it began to expand. In 1912, the place changed hands, with Spencer’s buying it for a princely Rs.4,000. Decades later, in 1984, it was sold again, to the management of what is now the Taj West End

  • Ramakrishna Math, Basavangudi –  Bangalore devotees requested to establish a permanent Centre of Ramakrishna Order in Bangalore. Upon their requests Ramakrishna Math, Bangalore came into existence in 1904 in a rented building. The foundation stone for the Ashram at Basavangudi was laid in 1906 by Swami Abhedananda. On 20 January 1909, the Ashram building was inaugurated. Holy Mother Sri Sarada Devi visited Bangalore in March 1911. She stayed at Ramakrishna Ashrama for 4 days and blessed the devotees
  • Mysore Sandal soap has been manufactured since 1916 when Nalvadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar, the king of Mysore set up the Government Soap Factory in Bangalore. This was done to deal with the excess sandalwood reserves. It is the only soap in the world made from 100% pure sandalwood oil.
  • Mavalli Tiffin Room (MTR) founded in 1924 is an iconic landmark of Bangalore. The food served at MTR is a regular, wholesome Karnataka Brahmin food. During World War II, MTR found it difficult to make idlis since rice was in short supply. According to MTR, they experimented with semolina instead of rice and thus invented the very popular breakfast item of Rava idli. The other iconic restaurant Vidyarthi Bhavan was started in 1942. As the name suggested it was initially a mess for hostel students living in that area.

  • K R Market was established in 1928. The location of the market is said to have been a water tank and then a battlefield in the 18th century during the Anglo-Mysore Wars.
  • Nilgiri’s opened their first store on Brigade Road in Bangalore in 1939. The store continues to stand at that location till date. (Walmart opened its 1st store in 1962)

  • HAL was established as Hindustan Aircraft in Bangalore in 1940 by Walchand Hirachand to produce military aircraft for the Royal Indian Air Force.
  • 1942 Bangalore and World War II – Seaplane landing strip at Bellandur lake was created during World War II. The lake could accommodate six huge planes
  • The Raman Research Institute was founded in 1948 by the Indian physicist and Nobel Laureate, Sir C V Raman, to continue his studies and basic research after he retired from the Indian Institute of Science. Sir C V Raman served as its director carrying on his personal research until his demise in 1970.
  • The foundation of Jayanagar was laid in 1948. It was one of the first planned neighbourhoods in Bangalore and, at the time, the largest in Asia. Jayanagar was traditionally regarded as the southern end of Bangalore. The “South End Circle”, where six roads meet, and the historic Ashoka Pillar bear this fact.
  • The Vidhana Soudha, completed in 1956. Kengal Hanumanthaiah is credited with the conception and construction.  The cost of construction at that time was just 1.75 Crore. Without a doubt it is the most impressive state legislature building in the country.

  • Karnataka Milk Federation set up in 1965  – Biggest Dairy in Karnataka with 1.5 lakh liters per day (LLPD) liquid milk processing facility set up in Bangalore; in 2012 it reached a record level procurement of 50 LLPD. After Amul, it is the second largest milk cooperative in india.
  • 1969 Chinnaswami Stadium  – The foundation stone of this stadium was laid in 1969 and construction work commenced in 1970. The stadium was first used for First-class cricket matches during the 1972–73 season. It earned Test status during the 1974–75 season when the West Indies toured India.The first Test played at this stadium was on 22–29 November 1974. Incidentally, this was the debut Test match for the West Indian batting giants Viv Richards and Gordon Greenidge
  • 1975 Dharmambudhi lake becomes Majestic – Kempe Gowda bus terminal (popularly known as ‘Majestic’ because of the theatre by the same name) was constructed in 1975
  • 1974 City gets Cauvery water – To meet the growing needs of the city through new sources of water supply, State Government constituted an Expert Committee in 1958 that recommended tapping the perennial river Cauvery rather than any of the other three sources Arkavathi, Hemavathy or Shimsha. This recommendation was accepted by the Government in 1964 and administrative approval was accorded to the Cauvery Water Supply Scheme (CWSS) 1 st Stage Project. Work was started during 1969 and the supply of Cauvery water to Bangalore commenced from 24th January 1974.
  • Electronics City was the brainchild of R.K. Baliga, the first Chairman and MD of Keonics, Karnataka Electronics. In 1978, Keonics established Electronics City on 332 acres of land in Konappana Agrahara and Doddathogur villages. About 120 companies have their offices there
  • Wipro hires a few technocrats and engineers from IISC and starts Wipro Infotech, manufacturing IT products in 1980. Infosys was established by seven engineers in Pune, Maharashtra, India with an initial capital of $250 in 1981. In 1983, it relocated its office to Bangalore, Karnataka, India.
  • Sampangi lake gave way to the Kanteerva Indoor Stadium in 1995, while the Koramangala lake became an apartment complex called the National Games Village in 1996.
  • Bangalore International Airport opened in May 2008 as an alternative to increased congestion at HAL Airport. Named after Kempe Gowda I, the founder of Bangalore, Kempegowda International Airport became Karnataka’s first fully solar powered airport. Kempegowda Airport is the third-busiest airport by passenger traffic in the country. It handled around 33 million passengers in the calendar year 2018 with 658 aircraft movements a day. Its one of the most well designed airport in the world.

  • Conceptualised in 1977, Namma Metro becomes the 1st operational Metro of S india in 2011. At its peak it was carrying 4.5 Lacs commuters every day with 50 trains.
  • Bangalore becomes Bengaluru – On Oct 17th 2014, the union Ministry of Home Affairs approved, 8 years after the proposal was first presented, the changing of name of the city of Bangalore to Bengaluru. 11 other cities of the state of Karnataka also had their names changed. Following the approval the Karnataka State Government issued a notification making the name change officially effective from Nov 1st 2014

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In 1901 Bangalore had a population of over 1.5 Lacs and was ranked 14th in the country. In 2020 with population of over 12M Bangalore is ranked 3rd in importance after Mumbai & Delhi. The explosive growth has stretched the city to its limits but the cosmopolitan culture and safe environments continue to make Bangalore the #1 destination for job seekers. The garden city and pensioners paradise had indeed evolved into the brand conscious upmarket Silicon Valley of India. A city which we all love and are proud off. 

References

  • The idea for this Blog was seeded after I met Sushma. She runs a Bangalore tour company called Yours Truly India. Sushma is very passionate about the history of Bangalore. https://yourstrulyindia.com
  • This link has a beautiful Timeline of Bangalore over the years, https://bengaluru.mapunity.com/heritage/timeline_events
  • A lot of information was gathered from the books – History of Wodeyars & History of South India.
  • And of course Wikipedia and Google was the source of many interesting nuggets and pictures

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Mahishasura Mardini (Aigiri Nandini.. ) – Context, Meaning, Learning

29 Sep

“Mahishasura Mardhini” means one who killed the Asura Mahishasura and refers to  Goddess Durga. The demon was in the form of a buffalo and hence the name “Mahish Asura”. She was created by the Gods to eradicate evil and many Asuras and Dhanavas were killed by her.

The beautiful Stotra is very captivating and describes in detail her beauty, power, emotions, skills, compassion and divinity. The verses have great poetry and use various alliterations to describe the divine nature of the Goddess.

The author of these verses is not clearly known but according to some sources it is said to be Kavi Ramakrishna (Tenali Ram of Krishnadeva Raya fame – Vijayanagar Empire), while others attribute it to Adi Shankara.

It may initially sound like a tongue twister, but once you have spent 4 -5 hears learning to chant along with an Audio the rhythm and words are mesmerising and you will enjoy chanting it. These verses are traditionally chanted in South Indian homes during Navarathri. It is also chanted in the early morning of Mahalaya which marks the onset of Navarathri & Durga Puja.

Although called Mahishasura Mardhini the Shlokas cover 3 aspects of the Devi – As Durga, Lakshmi & Saraswathi 

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“The place where Sri Mahishasura Mardini Stotram is sung every day, I will always be present and never leave.”
– The Devi’s proclamation in the 12th chapter of the Devi Mahatmyam

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Mahishasura Mardini Stotram is said to bring peace to the devotee and removes all fear and sadness. It drives away negative emotions like doubt, anger, ego and inertia. This stotram also removes obstacles from the path of the believer. One can listen to the Mahishasura Mardini Stotram, however reciting the chants are considered to be more powerful. 

 

 

Ai Giri Nandini Nanditha Medini Vishwa Vinodhini Nanda Nuthe
Girivara Vindhya Shirodhini Vassini Vishnu Vilassini Jishnu Nuthe
Bhagawathi Hey Shithi Kantha Kutumbini Bhuri Kutumbini Bhuri Krithe
Jaya Jaya Hey Mahishasura Mardhini Ramya Kapardhini Shaila Suthe

Ai – Divine Supreme Mother, Giri Nandini – Daughter of the king of the mountains, Nanditha Medini – 1) Worthy of prayer 2) Sita – daughter of Mother Earth, Vishwa Vinodini – Universal power that brings life to the Universe, Nanda Nuthe – Praised by Nanda, foster father of Lord Krishna, Girivara Vindhya – Vindhya Mountains , Shirodhini Vassini – Resident of the peak of the mountain range, Vishnu Vilassini – Worhsipped by Lord Vishnu, Jishnu Nuthe – Worhsipped and adored by Lord Indra, Bhagavathi – Mahalakshmi, Hey – Calling Mother with respect, Shithi Kantha – Wife of Lord Shiva, Bhuri Kutumbini – Mother of the whole universe, Bhuri Krithe – Fulfiller of all wishes, guardian of the entire universe, Jaya Jaya – More and more victorious, Hey – Hailing Mother with respect and affection, Mahishasura Mardhini – Slayer of the demon Mahishasur, Ramya Kapardhini – Elegant and beautiful hair (Tribute to the charm and beauty of the Goddess), Shaila Suthe – Daughter of Shailendra , Lord of the mountains

 

Suravara Varshini Durdhara Dharshini Durmukha Marshini Harsharathe
Tribhuvana Poshini Shankara Toshini Kilbisha Moshini Ghosharathe
Dhanujani Roshini Dhithisutha Roshini Durmadha Shoshini Sindhusuthe
Jaya Jaya Hey Mahishasura Mardhini Ramya Kapardhini Shaila Suthe

Suravara Varshini – Bestower of innumerable boons to the Devas, Durdhara – A demon , Durmukha – Another demon She stayed, Harsharathe – Creating joy & happiness by ending evil, Tribhuvana Poshini – Giver of food & sustenance to the 3 worlds, Shankara Toshini – One who pleases Lord Shiva immensely, Kilbisha Moshini – One who abolishes sin and its ill effects, Ghosharathe – Elimiates sin & the outcome of sin, Dhanujani – Those born to Dhanu – Dhanavas, Dhithisutha Roshini – One who bears anger against the sons of Dhithi (Asuras), Sindhu Suthe – Hail the daughter of the King of the Oceans (Mahalakshmi)

 

Ayi Jagadamba Madhamba Kadamba Vanapriya Vaasini Haasarathe
Shikhari Shiromani Tungaahimalaya Shringanijaalaya Madhyagathe
Madhu Madhure Madhu Kaithabha Ghanjini Kaithabha Bhanjini Raasarathe
Jaya Jaya Hey Mahishasura Mardhini Ramya Kapardhini Shaila Suthe

Ayi Jagadamba – Universal Mother, Madhamba – Mother to all creations, Kadamaba Vanapriya Vassini – Fond of the evergreen forests of the mountains, who resides there, Hassarathe – One who always maintains a gentle smile, Madhu Madhure – One who is nectar , the very power of Vishnu, Madhu Kaithabha Ghanjini – Vanquisher of two demons Madhu & Kaithabha, Kaithabha Bhanjini – Inflicts pain and harasses the demon, Raasarathe – Provides Divine enjoyment and indulges in it.

 

Ayi Shatha Khanda Vikhandita Runda Vithunditha Shunda Gajaadipathe
Ripugaja Ganda Vidharuna Chanda Parakraama Shunda Mrigaadhi Pathe
Nija Bhuja Dhanda Nipathith Khanda Vipathitha Munda Bhataadipathe
Jaya Jaya Hey Mahishasura Mardhini Ramya Kapardhini Shaila Suthe

Ayi – Divine Mother, Shatha Khanda – One who cuts enemy into over a 100 pieces, Vikhandita Runda – Into tiny atoms, Vithunditha – Demolishes the enemy to the depth of doom, Shunda Gajaadipathe – Brutally destroys Shunda and his army of elephants, Ripugaja Ganda – Punishes all the elephants in the enemies camp, Vidharuna Chanda – Army of Demon Chanda scatters hither and thither, Parakrama Shunda – Devis might & valour against Asura Sunda, Mrigaadhi Pathe – Vechile of Godess the Lion strikes Munda’s forehead and despatches all his elephant army to death, Nija Bhuja – With her own hands, Dhanda – delivers punishment,  Nipathitha Khanda – Endless flow of Divine weapons, Vipathitha Munda Bhataadipathe– Wields a brilliant divine sword like lightning and destroys Chanda & Munda and their entire army singlehandedly.

 

Ayi Rana Dhurmadha Shathru Vadhoodhitha Dhurdhara Nirjara Shakti Bruthe
Chatura Vichaara Dhureena Maha Shiva Dhoothakritha Pramadhipathe
Dhuritha Dhureeha Dhuraashaya Dhurmathi Danava Dhootha Kruthaantha Mathe
Jaya Jaya Hey Mahishasura Mardhini Ramya Kapardhini Shaila Suthe

Ayi – Divine Mother, Rana Dhurmadha – Defeats those with evil intentions, Shathru Vadhoodhitha – Resolves to vanquish her enemies, Dhurdhara Nirjara – Mercilessly eliminates Evil forces, Shakti Bruthe – A profusion of infinite energy, Chatura Vichaara – Uses 4 intelligent strategies to overcome challenges with the enemies, Dhureena Maha Shiva – One of the Trinity, Dhoothakritha Paramadhipathe – Enlists the support of Lord Shiva, Dhuritha Dhureeha – Eliminates evil in different circumstances, Dhuraashaya Dhurmathi – Supresses evil in many forms, Danava Dhootha – Sends Shiva as an emissary to the Dhanavas, Kruthaantha Mathe – Being compassionate & motherly gives even the wicked Asuras a chance to reform

 

Ayi Sharanagatha Vairi Vadhuvara Veera Varabhaya Dhayakare
Tribhuvana Masthaka Shoola Virodhi Shirodhi Krithamala Shoolakare
Dhumi Dhumi Thamaara Dhundhubi Nada  Maho Mukha Reetkritha Thigmakare
Jaya Jaya Hey Mahishasura Mardhini Ramya Kapardhini Shaila Suthe

Ayi – Divine Mother, Sharanagatha – Accepting those who surrender at her feet, Vairi Vadhuvara – Compassionate to the wives of her enemies who surrender to her, Veera Varabhaya – Wages war as per the rules of engagement, Dhayakare – Compassionate / Giver of boons and gifts, Tribhuvana – The Lord of the 3 worlds, Masthaka Shoola Virodhi – Impales the enemy warriors on the forehead,  Shirodhi Krithamala Shoolakare – Makes a garland of the heads of the defeated and vanquished asuras on her spear, Dhumi Dhumi Thamaara – Booming sound of the lotus feet of Devi as she dances the thandava dance with her anklets in the battlefield, Dhundhubi Nada – Sound from her trumpet as she announces war, Maho Mukhari Kritha – Her face resplendent and shining beautifully, Thigmakare – The sharp shining red hot Trishul blazing in the Sun.

 

Ayi Nija Hoomkrithi Maathra Nirakritha Dhoomra Vilochana Dhoomra Shathe
Samara Vishoshitha Shonita Beeja Samudhbhava Shonitha Beeja Lathe
Shiva Shiva Shumbha Nishumbha Mahaahava Tharpitha Bhutha Pishaacharathe
Jaya Jaya Hey Mahishasura Mardhini Ramya Kapardhini Shaila Suthe

Ayi – Divine Mother, Nija Hoomkrithi – Chants the powerful Baja Mantra “Hum”, Maathra Nirakritha Dhoomra Vilochana –  Killed the wicked asura Dhoomra Vilochana who was the commander of Shumbha and Nishumbha, whose red eyes always emitted poison, Dhoomra Shathe – Vanquished him in seconds, Samara Vishoshitha – Devi fights a special war , not the one fought by regular solders , Shonita Beeja Samudhbhava Shonitha Beeja Lathe – Reference to a powerful Asura whose every drop of blood creates more of his form, Godess kills him by swallowing all the blood that drips from him while fighting, Shiva Shiva Shumbha Nishumbha  – Shumbha and Nishumbha are great devotees of Shiva, Mahaahava Tharpitha – She gives them liberation by chanting the name of Lord Shiva while killing them , Bhutha Pishaacharathe – Thereby ensuring that they attain moksha and do not become ghosts and ghouls

 

Dhanu Ranu Sanga Ranakshana Sanga Parishpura Dhanga Natak Katake
Kanaka Pishanga Prishatka Nishanga Rasadh Bhata Shringa Hathaa Vatuke
Kritha Chaturanga Balakshiti Ranga Ghatad Bahuranga Ratad Batuke
Jaya Jaya Hey Mahishasura Mardhini Ramya Kapardhini Shaila Suthe

Dhanu Ranu Sanga – Devi looks beautiful holding the Bow, Ranakshana Sanga – One who uses her weapons as per the rules of the war, Parishpura Dhanga – Creates a divine aura as she holds with balance and poise her bow and arrows, Natak Katake – The sound from her bow and the entire atmosphere makes it feel more like a dance performance than a war, Kanaka Pishanga – The enemy showers on her red and golden arrows, Prishatka Nishanga – She responds to some and ignores the rest with Sringara rasa, Rasadh Bhata Shringa – Devi’s use of arrows and her response makes the whole performance look like a divine dance, Hathaa Vatuke – She is an expert in finishing off her enemies even with this grace, Kritha Chaturanga – Single handedly addresses 4 armies of the enemy, Balakshiti Ranga – One who weakens the enemy, Ghatad Bahuranga – Demolishes the wicked Asuras in different hues , Ratad Batuke – Her supremacy is complete, She is in total command, She is almighty.

 

Jaya Jaya Japya Jaye Jaya Shabdha Parasthuthi Tathpara Vishwanuthe
Bhana Bhana Bhinjjini Bhinkritha Noopura Sinjitha Mohitha Bhutapathe
Natitha Nataartha Natee Nata Nayaka Naatitha Naatya Sugaanarathe
Jaya Jaya Hey Mahishasura Mardhini Ramya Kapardhini Shaila Suthe

The world is dazzled by seeing the divine dance of the Godess. Jaya Jaya Japya Jaye – Devotees hailing Devi and chanting in chorus for her success, Jaya Shabdha Parasthuthi – She is the epitome of the word “Jaya” or Victory, Tathpara Vishwanuthe – All her devotees and supporters enamoured by her divine looks, energy and dance chant her name in chorus for her victory, Bhana Bhana Bhinjjini – Her jewellery makes a clanging noise as she dances the war dance and the whole universe looks in awe, Bhinkritha Noopura – Her anklets and other jewellery on her feet make a beautiful musical sounds, Sinjitha Mohitha Bhuta Pathe – Looking at this beautiful dance even Lord Shiva is mesmerised, Natitha Nataartha – She dances the cosmic dance like Nataraja with one feet on the ground and the other pointed towards the heaven’s, Natee Nata Nayaka – Always by the side of her devotees and her consort, Naatitha Naatya Sugaanarathe – The whole scene is captivating with the beautiful Godess dancing and creating divine music. The Deva’s and all those watching are spellbound

 

Ayi Sumanah Sumanah Sumanah Sumanah Sumanohara Kaanthiyuthe
Shritha Rajanee Rajanee Rajanee Rajanee Rajanee Kara Vakra Vrithe
Sunayana Vibhrama Rabhrama Rabhrama Rabhrama Rabhrama Radhipathe
Jaya Jaya Hey Mahishasura Mardhini Ramya Kapardhini Shaila Suthe

Here Devi is described as one with beautiful round eyes constantly scanning the universe day and night protecting her devotees from evil forces. She is compared to a full moon. Ayi – Godess , Sumanah – Good Hearted, Sumanohara – Lovely physical form, Kaanthiyuthe – So beautiful that everyone is attracted to Her like a magnet, Shritha Rajanee – Shining like a full Moon on a dark night, Rajanee Rajanee Rajanee Rajanee Kara – She is the queen of the night, creates the energy and joy and peace of the night, Vakra Vrithe – Her face is perfect and beautiful like a full moon, Sunayana Vibhrama – Her beautiful eyes are always on the lookout protecting her devotees from evil, Rabhrama Rabhrama Rabhrama Rabhrama Radhipathe – She dazzles people with her illusionary power. She is the mistress of illusion.

 

Sahitha Maha Hava Mallama Thallika Mallitha Rallaka Mallarathe
Virachitha Vallika Pallika Mallika Bhillika Bhillika Varga Vrithe
Sithakritha Phulla Samulla Sithaaruna Thallaja Pallava Sallalithe
Jaya Jaya Hey Mahishasura Mardhini Ramya Kapardhini Shaila Suthe

Sahitha Maha Hava – She is very powerful and can combat all the massive wrestlers from the enemies army, Mallama Thallika – Battles with ease with the gigantic Asura wrestlers, Mallitha Rallaka Mallarathe – Wipes them out with the blink of an eyelid, Virachitha Vallika – Amids the forests of Himalayas in the midst of Pepper & Jasmine creepers grows the beautiful ” Valli” creepers, Pallika Mallika – The Lizard maintains its house here, Bhillika Bhillika Varga Vrithe – This is the abode of the Divine mother  in the midst of rare flowering and medicinal plants in the Himalayas.Sithakritha Phulla – In this beautiful surrounding with Lily, Jasmine and fresh grass she lives, Samulla Sithaaruna – Her favourite haunts are around Lily & Jasmine flowers, Thallaja Pallava Sallalithe – In this beautiful surrounding , with lovely flowers in full bloom emanating a beautiful fragrance the Divine mother roams around

 

Avirala Ganda Galanmadha Medhura Maththa Mathangaja Raaja Pathe
Tribhuvana Bhushana Bhootha Kalaanidhi Rupa Payonidhi Raaja Suthe
Ayi Sudha Theejana Laalasa Maanasa Mohana Manmatha Raaja Suthe
Jaya Jaya Hey Mahishasura Mardhini Ramya Kapardhini Shaila Suthe

Avirala Ganda – Elephants that become intoxicated and uncontrollable when in a state of ” Madam”, Galanmadha Medhura – Elephants run amok when this liquid starts flowing between their eyes, Maththa Mathangaja Raaja Pathe – All the elephants in the Devi’s army including the king of the Elephants. (Ma Durga is able to make all the elephants in her army cause havoc with the enemy because she activates the secretions within their eyes that makes them uncontrollable), Tribhuvana – Godess of the 3 Worlds, Bhushana Bhootha – Covered with beautiful Jewels, Dazzling , a protective shield around her devotees, Kalanidhi – Embodiment of all arts, Rupa Payonidhi – Resides in all life forms, Raaja Suthe – Daughter of the Himalayas, Ayi – Godess , Sudha Theejana – Beautiful face, smiling , cool like the moon, Laalasa – Ever displaying her enchanting form, Maanasa Mohana Manmatha – Casting a spell on the minds of all not just with her beauty but her intellect, Raaja Suthe – daughter of the king of the Himalayas.

 

Kamala Dhalamala Komala Kaanthi Kallakali Thamala Bhaalalathe
Sakala Vilaasa Kalaanila Yakrama Keli Chalathkala Hamsakule
Alikula Sankula Kuwalaya Mandala Mouli Milad Bhakulaali Kule
Jaya Jaya Hey Mahishasura Mardhini Ramya Kapardhini Shaila Suthe

Kamala Dhalamala – Pearls of Lotus, Komala Kaanthi – The attractive power of a beautiful Lotus, Kallakali Thamala – A Beautiful face like a Lotus that brings joy to one and all, Bhaalalathe – Face adorned by the crescent moon, Sakala – Wholesome,  Vilaasa – Permamnent , indestructible,  Kalaanilaya –  Expertise in all art forms,  Krama – Follows all the rules, steps, discipline, Keli Chalathkala – Mastery of all art forms, creates and originator of forms of art,  Hamsa Kule – From the family of Brahma, Ali Kula – Surrounded by Devi’s and other forms of Sakthi , Divine Powers, Sam Kula – From a. good family, Kuwalaya – Lily flowers blooming in the water, Mandala – Community, Society, Mouli Milad Bhakulaali Kule – Resides in thick forests surrounded by Lily, Jasmine, Bakula flowers , with bees humming around

 

Khara Murali Rava Veejitha Koojitha Lajjitha Kokila Manjumathe
Militha Pulindha Manohara Gunjitha Ranjitha Shaila Nikunjagathe
Nijaguna Bhutha Maha Sabari Gana Sadhguna Sambhrita Kelithale
Jaya Jaya Hey Mahishasura Mardhini Ramya Kapardhini Shaila Suthe

Khara Murali Rava – One holding and playing flute, Veejitha Koojitha – Creating divine intoxication music playing the flute, Lajjitha – Shy of getting carried away by the music like the Gopis were carried away by Lord Krishnas music, Kokila Manjumathe – Devi creates music sweeter than that of the shy Cuckoo bird, Militha – One who binds , joins , creates intimacy, Pulindha – Woman of hill tribe , Devi is also originally from the Tribe of the mountains, Manohara Gunjitha Ranjitha – Mingling with the Tribal women she creates music that merges with the buzzing of the bees,  Shaila Nikunjagathe – Creating beautiful music wandering alone in the Tribal forests of the mountains, Nijaguna Bhutha – A person of superior character, Good Traits, Maha Sabari Gana – Mingling with the local Sabari clan, Sadhguna Sambhrita – Pure thoughts and actions, Kelithale – Mingles with the local Tribals , part of her own kin

 

Katithata Peetha Dhukoola Vichitra Mayukha Thiraskritha Chandra Ruche
Pranatha Surasura Mauli Mani Sphura Dhanshula Sannakha Chandra Ruche
Jita Kanaakachala Mauli Padhorjitha Nirbhara Kunjara Kumbhakuche
Jaya Jaya Hey Mahishasura Mardhini Ramya Kapardhini Shaila Suthe

Katithata Peetha – Wearing a yellow drape on slim hips, Dhukoola Vichitra – Extraordinatily beautiful, attracts one and all, Mayukha – Bright form dazzles like fire,  Thiraskritha – Overwhelms, Chandra Ruche – Equated to the brightness and the beauty of the moon, Pranatha Surasura – She is worshipped by all including the Asuras, Mauli Mani – Tinkling sound of bells, Sphura Dhanshula Sannakha – Sparkle and glitter of ornaments from toes and feet, Chandra Ruche – Equated to the brightness and the beauty of the moon, Jita Kanaakachala – Shines brighter than the golden Meru Parvat, Mauli Padhorjitha – Brightness from her body and feet infuses energy and enthusiasm in her devotees, Nirbhara Kunjara – Broad Forehead, Kumbhakuche – Divine Bosom shaped like the strong temples of the Elephant

 

Vijeetha Sahasra Karaika Sahasra Karaika Sahasra Karaikanuthe
Kritha Sura Tharaka Sangara Tharaka Sangara Tharaka Sonu Suthe
Suratha Samaadhi Samaana Samaadhi Samaadhi Samaadhi Sujatharathe
Jaya Jaya Hey Mahishasura Mardhini Ramya Kapardhini Shaila Suthe

Vijeetha Sahasra – Eternally Victorious, Karaika Sahasra Karaika Sahasra Karaikanuthe – Very Powerful devotee who had 1000 hands and prayed to Godess and was blessed, Kritha Sura Tharaka – Blessed and gave weapons to help kill the Demon Tharaka and vanquish his army , Sangara Tharaaka Sangara Tharaaka – Tharaka and his army , Sonu Suthe – The demon was killed by Subramaniam, Lord Muruga the Son of Shiva and Devi, Samaadhi Suratha Samaadhi Samaana Samaadhi Samaadhi Sujatharathe – Suratha was a king and Samaadhi a Businessman. They fell in bad times and were given the Devi’s Beeja Mantra to chant by Rishi Medha. Chanting that with devotion they overcame their challenges and attained Moksha

Pada Kamalam Karuna Nilaye Varivasya Dhiyonudhi Namsha Shive
Ayi Kamale Kamalaa Nilaye Kamala Nilaye Sa Kathamna Bhavet
Thava Padhameva Param Padha Mithyanu Sheelayatho Mama Kimna Shive
Jaya Jaya Hey Mahishasura Mardhini Ramya Kapardhini Shaila Suthe

Pada Kamalam – tender Lotus feet, Karuna Nilaye – Ocean of compassion, Varivasya – Abundance, Dhiyonudhi Namsha Shive – Showers abundance and fulfils all desires of those who meditate at Her lotus feet, Ayi – Divine Mother, Kamala – One who sits on the Lotus, Kamala Nilaye – Who resides in the Lotus ( Lakshmi), Sa Kathamna Bhavet – Her sincere devotees, who is always with Her, she can even transform a beggar to a multi millionaire, Thava Padhameva – Your Lotus feet alone, Param Padha Mithyanu Sheelayatho – When  a devotee meditates on your lotus feet over time it becomes a habit, Mama Kimna Shive – Such devotees are always looked after and taken care for by you, you have never ignored their prayers.

 

Kanakala Sathkala Sindhu Jalairanu Sinjjinuthe Guna Ranga Bhuwam
Bhajathi Sakimna Sachee Kucha Kumbha Thatipari Rambha Sukha Anubhavam
Thava Charanam Sharanam Karavaani Nataamara Vaani Nivasi Shivam
Jaya Jaya Hey Mahishasura Mardhini Ramya Kapardhini Shaila Suthe

Kanakala Sathkala – Hands adorned with jewels studded with stones she bestows all the skills and art forms (Kala & Vidya) Sindhu Jalairanu Sinjjinuthe Guna – Here she is praised as Saraswathi, all you need to do is to dip flowers in water and offer Abhishekam to her in your prayers,  Ranga Bhuwam – Her form is pure and shimmering, Bhajathi – One who sings Bhajans, Sakimna Sachee Kucha Kumbha – In search of everlasting peace and happiness, Thatipari Rambha – Beautiful form, Sukha Anu bhavam – permanenent bliss, Thava Charanam – We surrender at your lotus feet, Sharanam – A place to surrender, Karavaani – Devi Saraswathi, Nataamara Vaani – One who is all Knowledge The Vedas and the source of all music, Nivasi Shivam – One who is merged with Shiva

 

Thava Vimalendhu Kulam Vadhanaendhu Malam Sakalam nanu Koolayathe
Kimu Purohitha Purendhu Mukhi Sumukhi Bhirasow Vimukhee Kriyathe
Mamathu Matham Shiva Naamadhane Bhavathi Kripaya Kimutha Kriyathe
Jaya Jaya Hey Mahishasura Mardhini Ramya Kapardhini Shaila Suthe

Thava Vimalendhu Kulam – Your face is pure and shining like a moon, you belong to the family of the Moon, Vadhanaendhu Malam – Shines like the moon with the glory of all knowledge and art forms, Sakalam – All , Nanu Koolayathe – You bestow special privileges on those who pray and meditate on you, Kimu – Whatever it is, wherever it is , whenever it is, whoever it is, Purohitha – One who is meditated upon, Purendhu Mukhi – One who is always seen with a smiling face like a moon, Sumukhi Birasau – Her face shines brighter than a 1000 moons, Vimukhee Kriyathe – Her smiling face encourages her devotees and keeps them going forward, Mamathu – Mine , Yours, With you, Matham – Faith, Trust, Shiva Naamadhane – Name of Shiva,  Bhavathi – Devi, Kripaya – Mercy, Kimutha Kriyathe – One through Her divine mercy who held us accomplish difficult tasks with ease (Devi & Shiva are one , may be different forms but the energy is one)

 

Ayi Mayi Deena Dayalu Daya Kripayaiva Tvayaa Bhavi Thavya Mume
Ayi Jagatho Janani Kripayasi Yathaasi Thathanu Mithasi Rathe
Yaduchita Mathra Bhavathyurare Krututhadhuru Thapa Mapaakuruthe
Jaya Jaya Hey Mahishasura Mardhini Ramya Kapardhini Shaila Suthe

Ayi Mayi Deena Dayalu Daya – O Mother, Please show mercy on us poor weak souls, Kripayaiva Tvayaa – Displays mercy with just a fleeting glance, Bhavi Thavya Mume – One whose Compassion has no bounds and is always showing mercy and compassion on us, Ayi – Divine Mother, Jagatho Janani – Mother of the Universe,  Kripayasi – Please show mercy on us, Yathaasi Thathanu Mithasi Rathe – Whenever we need your help please manifest and shower your compassion on us, Yaduchita Mathra – Make me eligible to be whatever I am capable of, Bhavathyurare –  One who lifts us from the entanglement of Samsara, Krututhadhuru Thapa – Before we get scorched by the fire of samsara, Mapaakuruthe – During times of stress a mere look at your face is cooling and calming to the mind.

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Learning to Chant is easy. Its a 4 – 5 hr effort. Download this youtube link on an app that allows you to set the pace of the rendition. Print a copy of the Lyrics and keep it handy. Start practising Stanza by Stanza with the same metre and rhythm. Understand the meaning of the words as explained above when you chant.

 

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Explore in and around Bangalore – 25 Curated Day Trips

11 Jul

There is more to Bangalore than Lalbagh, Cubbon Park, Vidhan Soudha and MTR. We have visited over 50 interesting places across 25 day trips in and around Bangalore. Almost all these trips are 7.30 AM to 3.30 PM day trips. Ancient temples 1000’s of years old, beautiful serene ashrams, Treks – Easy and not so easy, traditional restaurants, unique resorts …. and a lot many more of Good Places.

So form your groups of a Few Good People and explore Bangalore like never before by following these 25 curated day trips.  Every trip is documented after personal travel – which is what makes it authentic. (Text in Dark Blue is clickable Link)

21 curated day trips

  • Trips 1,2,& 3  : Pyramid Valley, Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple, Basavangudi temples 
    • Trip – 1 : Pyramid Valley – Kanakpura Road
    • Trip – 2 : Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple , School of Ancient Wisdom (Near the Devanahalli Airport)
    • Trip – 3 : Basavangudi the heart of Bangalore.  Brahmins Cafe – Ramkrishna Ashram – Gave Gangadeshwar Cave Temple –  hanuman Temple on a Hill – Jain temple

Jain temple

Bangalore Trips

Temples of Malleswaram

  • Trip 9 : Kolar & Avani 
    • Kolar & Avani – Ancient Kolaramama Temple – Shiva Temple from Chola era, Ancient Ramalingeshwara temples at Avani

Kolaramama Temple

  • Trip 10 : Devrayani Durga
    • Fascinating Green hill temple of Devrayani Durga – Siddha Garden – Nammade Chilumme ( Place where Rama supposedly shot an arrow in the ground for water to put his Nama)

Green hill temple of Devrayani Durga - Siddha Garden

  • Trip 11 : Baevu Village 
    • Baevu Village – A lovely nature resort with thousands of Neem trees surrounded by Hills – Off Kanakpura Road

Baevu Villagewith neem trees

Trips to the edge of Mysore

  • Trip 13 : Antarganga trek 
    • Antargana Trek – A hillock near Kolar with fascinating dark caves that need you to be adventurous and flexible to explore

Antargana Trek - dark caves

  • Trip 14 : Bangalore Palaces & Forts 
    • MTR – Bull temple – Bugle Rock park – Tipu Summer palace – Bangalore Fort – KR Market – Bangalore Palace – Esplanade

Bangalore Palace and Forts

  • Trip 16 : Mandargiri 
    • Mandargiri – On Tumkur Road near Hoskote visit an ancient Jain temple complex on the top of a monolithic hill

Mandargiri ancient Jain temple

Sushil Dham Jain Temple

  • Trip 18 : Trek to Madhugiri 
    • Near Tumkur – Head on the Tumkur Road till Dobaspet and then drive past Devrayani Durga to reach Madhugiri.
    • A steep Monolithic hill supposedly Asias 2nd tallest at 3930 feet. A tough and challenging trek – not for the weak hearted

Trek to Madhugiri

  • Trip 19 : Rangasthala – An Ancient Vishnu temple at Chickballapur  
    • Visit an ancient Vishnu temple Rangasthala – over 1000 years old
    • Devanahalli fort of Haider Ali and the birth place of Tipu
    • Venugopalaswami temple
    • Lunch @ South Ruchi’s Square
  • Trip 20 : Channapatna 
    • Malur Krishna – An ancient Chola temple built by Rajendra Simha Chola on the banks of the river Kanva
    • Aprameya Temple – A unique ancient temple of crawling baby Krishna. The great Vaishnavite sage Ramanujacharya is said to have worshipped the lord at this temple.
    • Kokrebellur – a Town full of painted storks and many more migratory birds (25 Km from Channapatna)
  • Trip 21 – 25: Family Treks around Bangalore. 
    • Savandurga
    • Channarayadurgs
    • Ramadevara Betta (Vulture Sanctuary)
    • Muthurayanabetta
    • Haddina Kallu (Eagle Stone Hill)

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A Few Good Places ….Over 100 amazing Resorts & Homestay across India

24 Jan

This is a rare list of the most unique offbeat resorts, villas and home-stays across India. I have travelled to many of them over the years. The common link to all these is Exotic, Nature and Serenity. So make the most of the long weekends in 2021 and plan your holidays now. Finding a good property is the first big step towards a great holiday.

The Blog Lists

  • A Review of all the places I have visited in the last 10 years
  • A list of amazing properties that are in my list to visit, segregated by regions – South, North, East & West

A woman wades in the pool of the Ganga Pool Villa at Ananda in the Himalayas, The Palace Estate, Narendra Nagar, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand, India. The Ganga Pool Villa is a one-bedroom private villa with its own infinity pool.

A Few Good Places we have visited in the last few years

 

And the places I want to visit … 

South

  • Rivemist Resorts, about 70 Km from Chickmagalur near Hornadu is a rare treat in the lush green of W Ghats ~ 4950 feet above MSL. The greatest + of this wonderful nature retreat is the waterfall and the Netravati river that flows through the resort ground – https://rivermistresorts.com
  • On the banks of the Kabini, a small boutique resort to experience the beauty of the jungles in African styled tented accommodation, The Bison Resort – https://thebisonresort.com
  • The Evolve group is a class beyond compare for luxury & service, Evolve (Orange County) – Kabini
  • Among this amalgamation of waterways and forests lies Red Earth Kabini. An unpretentious resort located on the backwaters of the Kabini Dam, Red Earth http://www.redearthkabini.in
  • Villa Urvinkhan is a unique concept of creating a luxury resort with the warmth of a home, Chickamagalur –  http://www.villaurvinkhan.com
  • A warm and comfortable home stay located in the foothills of Mullayangiri with Fertile stretch of iron enriched soil ideal for coffee cultivation. This house is located in the middle of lush green coffee plantation, Hence the name Thotadhahalli means estate village in kannada.- http://www.thotadahalli.com
  • Budget Friendly homestay on the banks of the Bhadra river, Shanti Kunj  – https://shanthikunnj.com
  • A Newly opened resort at Chickamagalur, Java Rain resorts http://www.javarainresorts.com
  • A scenic beauty by the river, Meriyanda Nature Lodge Coorg – http://www.meriyanda.com
  • An authentic Coorg Homestay ,  Gowri Nivas (Luxury Homestay), http://www.gowrinivas.com
  • Coorg Wilderness Resort – At Coorg Wilderness Resort we bring you to the very doorstep of nature, offering a rare opportunity to be part of the wild, yet with every possible comfort and luxury. https://www.coorgwildernessresort.in
  • Nestled in a lush and thriving coffee plantation, Old Kent Estates takes one back to the period of the British Raj.  and is surrounded by a large English garden and acres of plantation and woodlands – Coorg, www.oldkentestate.com
  • On the Vembanad lake, a 2 hr drive from Ernakulam, Kumarakom lake resort – http://www.kumarakomlakeresort.in
  • Experience harmony with nature at the Spice Tree Resorts – Munnar http://spicetreemunnar.com
  • Tranquil is run with the efficiency of a resort but with the personalized touch of your hosts – Tranquil Waynad (Luxury Homestay), https://www.tranquilresort.com
  • Milton Abbott Estate is a quintessential late-19th century British colonial estate bungalow with an old world charm perfect for a laidback holiday – Ooty, https://www.saffronstays.com/view/milton-abbot-estate-a-private-1865-vintage-heritage-bungalow-estate-by-the-ooty-golf-course-TI7tLWKUqiCdam6m
  • Tamara Kodai – Set high in the hills of Kodaikanal, The Tamara Kodai provides a luxury, heritage experience unlike any other. This picturesque hotel dates back to the 1840s. The building itself was originally called Baynes Bungalow owned by British District Judge, Mr. Baynes. https://www.thetamara.com/kodaikanal-resort/
  • Chidambaram Vilas – Recreates an authentic experience of the luxurious Chettinad lifestyles of the last century, through a heritage Chettiar palace that preserves 108 years of history http://www.chidambaravilas.com
  • The Bangla – A heritage hotel in the heart of Chettinad. http://www.thebangala.com
  • Saratha Vilas, built by a wealthy Tamil merchant in the early 1900s, is a prime example of the luxurious mansions unique to the heritage of the Chettinad region. The 34500 sq. ft. property, including buildings, courtyards and gardens, has been painstakingly restored, and converted into a ten-bedroom boutique hotel by two French architects passionate about the preservation of Chettinad and its history, https://sarathavilas.com
  • Palai De Mahe – An address in the French Quarter with a distinct colonial stamp.Palais de Mahe lies close to the sea side promenade, barely 50 metres from the cool breezes and gentle rumblings of the Bay of Bengal.
    This signature hotel – with its majestic courtyard, deep verandahs, attractive pillars and period furniture – combines south Indian fire and flavor with French intensity and fervor to bring you an experience that is in every way unforgettable.An address in the French Quarter with a distinct colonial stamp. Palais de Mahe lies close to the sea side promenade, barely 50 metres from the cool breezes and gentle rumblings of the Bay of Bengal. This signature hotel – with its majestic courtyard, deep verandahs, attractive pillars and period furniture – combines south Indian fire and flavor with French intensity and fervor to bring you an experience that is in every way unforgettable.https://www.cghearth.com/palais-de-mahe
  • Maison Perumal – A Franco-Tamil heritage in Pondicherry. Maison Perumal is a period bungalow that we had the privilege to turn into a distinguished boutique hotel. Located in the Tamil quarter of Pondicherry, this 18th-century house exudes a legacy that reflects the French colonial aura of this small seaside town. https://www.cghearth.com/maison-perumal
  • CGH Earth Properties – has amazing properties across South India in multiple cities, mostly in Kerala https://www.cghearth.com

North 

  • A beautiful mountain getaway by the river – Keiths Cottage is a rare find which I am keen to visit soon. Keith’s has been build around the simplicity of nature and the joys of our childhood. The freshness of air, the run by the brook, the chirping of birds, the fruits & vegetables that grew in the backyard, the songs that stole our heart or just watching the wide sky with an empty mind. Not to forget the sumptuous organic home cooked food. Life was always meant to be simple and we hope to bring back some of those memories to everyone who visit us.https://keithscottages.com.
  • 8,825 feet above sea level in the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas, stands a world-class resort that captures the beauty of its pristine setting. With majestic views of the Affarwat Peaks, The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa is spread over 7 acres of a sylvan coniferous forest https://www.khyberhotels.com
  • Itmenaan Estate is a fairytale getaway in a peaceful rural setting in the Kumaon Himalayas. http://www.itmenaanlodges.com 
  • Vana almost seems a contradiction – a forest touching it on one side, and nestled between the city of Dehradun and the hill station of Mussoorie. Vana Retreat – Adults only (Vana Retreats | Wellness | Wellbeing), https://vana.co.in
  • Located on the fringes of protected Sal forests West of Dehradun, nestled in 23 acres, in quiet environs with nothing but Nature as company is Vishranti, A Doon Valley Resort & Spa.
    Vishranti Resorts (Vishranti Resorts and Spa in Dehradun | Luxury Farm Stay) – https://vishrantiresorts.com/en/
  • Sophisticated luxury and simplicity far far away in a remote Kumaon Village – Leti 360, https://www.shaktihimalaya.com/kumaon.php
  • Samode Safari Lodge, Bandhavgarh National Park, one of the best places to spot a Tiger, https://www.samode.com/safarilodge/
  • An oasis of tranquility in the desert, The Serai, Near Jaisalmer, One of the 12 Luxury Relais & Chateaux properties in India, https://www.relaischateaux.com/us/india/serai-rajasthan-jaisalmer
  • Tree of Life resort & spa – Jaipur, https://www.treeofliferesorts.com/jaipur/

East 

  • Rajbari Bawali – Explore the charm of a royal Zamindar household in Kolkata, https://www.therajbari.com
  • Sikkim Village Walks, Shakti Himalaya, a property that also owns Shakti Himalayas Leti 360 in Kumaon – https://www.shaktihimalaya.com/sikkim.php
  • Glenburn is a heavenly little plantation retreat that lies on a hillock above the banks of the River Rungeet, high in the Himalayas, overlooked by the mighty Kanchenjunga mountain range. Its a 100 year old property. Glenburn Tea Estate Darjeeling – http://www.glenburnteaestate.com
  • Mayfair Palm Beach, The best place to stay and explore Bhubaneshwar, Puri and Konark. https://www.mayfairhotels.com/mayfair-gopalpur/
  • Balakhana – Stay in a stately early 19th century French villa. The architectural heirloom of a distinguished Bengali Zamindari family, who still live there on a 16 acre estate. https://www.balakhana.com
  • Itachuna Rajbari, A taste of Royalty. http://www.itachunarajbari.com
  • Jhargram Palace – the current residence of the Malla Dev Royal family. It is a structure combining the Italian and Islamic architecture model. About 10 rooms on the ground floor have been converted into a Heritage Hotel run by the family. Set in carefully laid lawns and gardens which was built in 1922 CE. http://www.jhargrampalace.com

West & Central 

  • Luxury Forest Resorts. Pugdundee Safaris is recognized as one of India’s leading responsible safari companies. With six intimate jungle lodges in Central India and many bespoke wilderness experiences it presents the very best of the Indian subcontinent wildlife & hospitality. https://www.pugdundeesafaris.com
  • Tree House resort near Lonawala , Machan – https://www.themachan.com
  • Ahilya Fort Hotel – MP, In the year 2000, Prince Richard Holkar, thedescendant and son of the last Maharaja of Indore, converted his home in Ahilya Wada into a guest residence, today known around the world as the Ahilya Fort Hotel. https://ahilyafort.com
  • Ayurveda and Yoga on the beach. SwaSwara means your inner voice and true to its name, this is a place of natural harmony to release, refocus and recalibrate the self. Swaswara Gokarna. https://www.cghearth.com/swaswara
  • https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj-safaris/ – Wild Life safari , Luxury
  • Atmantan – Luxury health and wellness resort at Mulshi , near Lonawala – https://www.atmantan.com

 

A Few Good websites 

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Introduction & Meaning – Gayatri Mantra

6 Feb

The Gayatri Mantra is a powerful and easy to chant mantra that has been associated with our land for thousands of years. When chanted regularly and accurately by understanding the meaning it brings clarity to your thought and helps accelerate your spiritual journey.

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Brahmarshi Vishvamitra is credited as the author of most of Mandala 3 of the Rigveda, including the Gayatri Mantra. The Puranas mention that only 24 rishis since antiquity have understood the whole meaning of – and thus wielded the whole power of Gayatri Mantra. Vishvamitra is supposed to be the first and Yajnavalkya the last

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The Blog is based on the explanation of The Gayatri Mantra by Sri M in his book “Jewel in the Lotus – Deeper aspects of Hinduism”. There is a detailed explanation by Sri M also on the topic and you can get a DVD of the same. A link to the  introductory talk by Sri M is enclosed below.

Background 

The Gayatri Mantra is one of the most ancient mantras of this country. It is said that whoever sings (or chants) it is protected. It deals with the relationship between man & universe. It is concerned with the process of Self Realisation.

Gayatri Mantra does not say, ‘give me wealth’, the mantra does not say ‘give me health’, it does not say ‘give me this’ or ‘give me that’. Gayatri Mantra says illuminate or stimulate my intelligence

A hymn from the Rigveda, it is addressed to Savitur – the Sun, but its tutelary deity is Gayatri. She is the female counterpart of the Trinity or more appropriately their consorts – Saraswati, Lakshmi & Kali representing learning, wealth and protection. They are individually prayed to for worldly personal boons while Gayatri is invoked to give us the “buddhi” to understand our true nature, knowing which we have everything. The divine light of Savitur helps us free ourselves from bondage so that the power of Gayatri envelops us.

The Gayatri Mantra is unique – its the only mantra which is a combination of a prayer and a mantra – it combines the inherent power of the sound of a mantra with the power of the prayer.

Gayatri-Mata-With-Gayatri-Mantra-Wallpaper

Aum  Bhur Bhuvah Suvah

Tat Savitur Varenyam 

Bhargo Devasya Dheemahi

Dhiyo Yonah Prajodayat

Rough literal interpretation 

“We contemplate upon the Originator or Source of everything, that adorable effulgent Divinity, and pray that our intelligence may be illuminated and stimulated, so that we would be enabled to understand the Absolute Truth“

There is one word in this mantra which sets it apart from all other mantras. It is the word “dheemahi“. It means either ” We meditate upon” or “May we meditate upon” – whatever meaning we select, an assertion or a prayer, the important aspect is the plural form of the word. And this has great significance. The plural implies that the prayer is for the benefit for all though the aspirant is seeking the development of spiritual consciousness. It is this transcendence over a desire for narrow personal benefit that imbues the Gayatri Mantra with its great power.

Gayatri Mantra & The Power of Discrimination 

Caught up in our everyday life we need clear and sharp perception to comprehend the deeper significance of our mundane facts and problems. Intellect or reason is often not enough to provide clarity, man suffers from lack of discrimination. The power of Discrimination according to Vedanta is only possible when a faculty higher than intellect is used. That faculty is “Buddhi” – which can be loosely defined as intuition tempered with intellect. And Gayatri is the mode to reach this source of discrimination or “Viveka“

What is Gayatri 

Gayatri is a particular form of Sanskrit Shloka written in what is known as a Gayatri meter. The Gayatri meter consists of 24 syllables (aksharas) evenly distributed in three padas (feet). There are other mantras using the gayatri metre but the Gayatri Mantra by virtue of its universal appeal has appropriated for itself the name of the meter, so that any mention of this meter evokes the words of the mantra.

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Each foot of the Gayatri represents the Rig, Yajur and Sama Vedas – so its said in the Scriptures that the Gayatri Mantra is the mother of all the Vedas

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Simple and powerful, chanting it 108 times a day takes about 20 minutes. It helps you in getting the rare power to illuminate your intelligence and develop your power of perception and discrimination, enhance your clarity. Its a worth a try , there is nothing to lose but a lot to gain. So try doing it every day after your morning bath, facing the Sun from your balcony or garden and get charged with positive energy. Best time to chant is in the morning.

Introductory Talk on the Gayatri Mantra by Sri M 

http://satsang-foundation.org/videos/videos-talks-by-sri-m-the-gayatri-mantra/

It is important that you chant it in the right tone and metre. The rendition by the Challikere brothers is probably the most accurate that you can get online.

Gayathri Dhyanam – Challekere Brothers, downloadable from iTunes

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