Diwali Diyas!!

The fifteenth night of the month of Karthika is a no moon night, that is, 'Amavasya' is celebrated as the festival of Diwali by Hindus residing across the globe. But, with zillions of Diyas lit, the darkness has to find a place to hide. They enlighten the aura with such a brilliance that amidst the sheen of it evil is engulfed.

Widely known as 'The Festival Of Lights', Diwali connotes the victory of good over evil. Numerous folklores are associated with the festival of Diwali. And every tale indicate towards one fact that it is inevitable for the good to triumph over evil. On one hand, Lord Rama ended the reign of Ravana and on the other hand Lord Krishna killed demon Narakasura, thereby, re-establishing peace and happiness in three worlds.

Diwali Diyas is the embodiment of the same goodness, virtuosity, and eternal truth. For Hindus, light is the symbol of knowledge, wisdom, goodness, happiness, peace, truth and prosperity. Whereas, darkness symbolizes everything opposite to it. We find in legendary stories of Diwali the mention of the role of Diyas. Natives of Ayodhya lit Diyas in the way of Lord Rama, Lakshmana, and Mother Sita so that they would not get distracted from the path.

It was physically done at that time, but there is a deeper significance relevant even in contemporary times. Diya not only help in enlightening the physical path but the spiritual path too. It shows the right way so that our soul never indulge in any kind of evil. It teaches the lesson of brotherhood and encourages everyone to choose the road that leads to serenity of mind and soul.

People belonging to Hindu community all around the world indulge in lavish celebrations of the festival, but it is also important to understand the essence of these celebrations. The lesson is not confined to be adopted by Hindus only, but the idea is universal and thus encompasses the mankind on the whole. If these beautiful Diyas would start appealing to everyone's mind and soul can turn the world into a Utopian one.

Diwali!!

Today's the `Festival of Lights' all over;

A joyful day for minds and hearts and souls;

And people throng the Temples to offer,

Prayers, resolving to take better roles.

And most of them are richly clad and clean,

And eat such dainty foods and sweets with mirth;

Whilst noisy crackers burst, their lights are seen,

It seems to be a happy day on Earth!

But are there not hearts woe-filled, very sad?

Denied of laughter, smiles for days;

Today's the triumph of Good over bad;

But what about the wastage in much ways?

True joy is when you see someone else smile!

True charity gives joy in Heavenly style.

Diwali!!

The sweet smell of flowers
The array of colors
Diwali is here!!
Firecrackers are heard
Candles are lit
Children play
Presents are given
We pray to the gods
Diwali is here.

Season of Lights!!

Dunes of vapors from crackers rise,
Engulf, as odorous airs resound
Effusing joys to all abound
Pearls of gleams in these autumn nights
Adorn our lives else trite
With sparklers that motley skies
As soaring spirits of powder wander
Let us thank the heavenly might,
In this festive season of lights.

Marine Drive!!

Marine Drive is a skillfully laid-out boulevard in South Mumbai. It is actually an upturned 'C'-shaped six lane concrete road, which lengthens to 3 km along the coastline - a natural bay. This avenue connects Nariman Point with Malabar Hills. Situated over domesticated land, facing west-south-west, its coastline forms the part of the Arabian Sea. What draws attention to this avenue is the striking esplanade next to the road, where scores of people come to breathe fresh air and view sunset.

Officially called Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Road, Marine Drive was earlier identified as Sonapur amongst local Marathi populace. Palm trees are lined up along the road, presenting a picturesque view and nice walkway to take a stroll.

Having the highest real estate prices in India, the buildings down the road embrace many hotels and are home to many celebrities. Indeed, there is a row of art deco buildings that were built by wealthy Parsis during early 1920's. Bombay just follows Miami (USA) in its number of art deco buildings along the waterfront.

At nights, Marine Drive looks stunning illuminated, with lights and if seen from some elevated point beside the road, it appears like a necklace with street lights resembling a string of pearls. Attributable to its extravagant loveliness, it is also known as Queen's Necklace.

Chowpatty Beach, famous for its local fast-food, lies at the northern end of this road. One of the busiest roads in Mumbai, Marine Drive has been acclaimed as the world's largest viewing gallery that hosts various events. Marine Drive offers the best causeway to take a refreshing saunter next to the sparkling waters of the Arabian Sea. The cool breeze would caress you with its gentle touch, making you feel at cloud nine.

'Nana-Nani' park is the recent attraction, which has been added for senior citizens in the area. Tickle your taste buds with the local 'kulfi' and tit-bits available at road-side kiosks. Thus, Marine Drive is a place that none cannot afford to miss while holidaying in Bombay.

The Friendship Recipe!!

Fold two hands together

And express a dash of sorrow

Marinate it overnight

And work on it tomorrow

Chop one grudge in tiny pieces

Add several cups of love

Dredge with a large sized smile

Mix with the ingredients above

Dissolve the hate within you

By doing a good deed

Cut in and help your friend,

If friend should be in need.

Stir in laughter, love, and kindness

From the heart, it has to come

Toss with genuine forgiveness

And give your neighbor some!!

The amount of people served

Will depend on you

It can serve the whole wide world

If you really want it to!!

Amma!!Tribute to Mother!!

A kannada bhaavageethe written by BR Lakshman Rao.Very touching lyrics!!

Amma ninna yedeyaaladalli
Gaalakke sikka meenu
Midukaaduthiruve naanu
Kadiyalolle nee karula balli
Olavooduthiruva thaaye
Bidada Bhuviya IIAmmaII

Ninna rakshe goodalli
bechchageAdagali yeshtu dina?
Dhoodu horage nanna
Ota kalive olanota kalive
Naa kalive oordhwagamanaa
O agaadha gaganaa II Amma II

Mele haari ninna seletha meeri
Nirbhaara sthithige thalupi
Brahmaandavanne bedaki
Indhana theeralu bande baruvenu
Matthe ninna todege
Moortha premadedege II Amma II