Thumbi Thumbi Vaa Vaa (Koodappirappu)

This is an old Malayalam song from the movie Koodappirappu. I used to love this long a lot... Was pleasantly surprised to finally find it online!

The story alludes to a little girl talking to a butterfly. Her father works in the distant city (Ernakulam) and evidently, she misses him a lot. Her mother does too. She is asking the butterfly to bring back her father... Love the story-line...

തുമ്പി തുമ്പി വാവാ
ഈ തുമ്പത്തണലില്‍ വാ വാ
തുമ്പത്തണലില്‍ വാവാ

പട്ടുറുമാലും കെട്ടി ഒരു
പച്ചക്കമ്പിളി ചുറ്റി
എത്തറ കാടുകളെത്തറനാടുക-
ളിത്തറനാളും കണ്ടു

കൊച്ചി കോട്ടകള്‍ കണ്ടോ ഒരു
കൊച്ചെറണാകുളമുണ്ടോ?
കാഴ്ച്ചകള്‍ കണ്ടു നടന്നപ്പോളെ-
ന്റച്ഛനെയവിടെ കണ്ടോ?
തുമ്പി തുമ്പി........

പീലിച്ചുരുള്‍മുടി ചീകി ഒരു
നീലക്കണ്ണടചൂടി
കൊച്ചെലിവാലന്‍ മീശയുമായെ-
ന്നച്ഛനെയവിടെ കണ്ടോ

കരളുപുകഞ്ഞിട്ടമ്മ എന്‍
കവിളില്‍ നല്‍കിയൊരുമ്മ
എന്‍ കവിളില്‍ നല്‍കിയൊരുമ്മ
കരിവാളിച്ചൊരു മറുകുണ്ടാക്കിയ
കാരിയമച്ഛനറിഞ്ഞോ?

ഒത്തിരിനാളായ് ചുണ്ടില്‍ ഒരു
കിക്കിളിയുമ്മയുമായി
അമ്മകരഞ്ഞിട്ടച്ഛനെ നോക്കി
കണ്ണുനറഞ്ഞൂ തുമ്പീ

പച്ചക്കുതിരയിലേറീ
എന്നച്ഛനുറങ്ങണ തൊട്ടില്‍
കൊണ്ടുവരാമോ കാലേല്‍ തൂക്കി
കൊണ്ടുവരാമോ തുമ്പീ?
തുമ്പി തുമ്പി........


Thumbi thumbi vaa vaa
Ee thumba thanalil vaa vaa
Thumba thanalil vaa vaa

Patturumaalum ketti
Oru pacha kampili chutti
Ethara kaadukalethara naadukal-
Ithara naalum kandu?

Kochi kottakal kando?
Oru kocheranaakulamundo?
Kazhchakal kandu
Nadannappolentachaneyavide kando?
Thumbi...

Peelichurulmudi cheeki oru
Neelakkannada choodi
Kochelivaalan meeshayumaayent-
Achaneyavide kando?

Karalu pukanjittamma
En kavilil nalkiyorumma
En kavilil nalkiyorumma
Karivaalichoru marukundaakkiya
Kariyamachanarinjo?

Othirinaalay chundil oru
Kikkiliyummayumaayi
Ammakaranjittachane nokki
Kannu naranju thumbi

Pacha kuthirayileri
Entachanurangana thottil
Konduvaraamo kaalil thookki kondu varamao
Kondu varamo thumbi ?
Thumbi...


I am highly indebted to the website Malayala Chalachithram for making this beautiful song available to all.

Android Apps I Can't Live Without!

Okay, so the title is a little dramatic; it's not that bad ;)...  But I sure would miss them a lot! Click on the name of the app to go directly to the Play Store link.

I use the Apex Launcher as the default launcher app. I have found it to be classy and extremely capable.

Home screen:

Timely:

This is a beautiful, beautiful alarm clock. And I love the simple widget. Use my code: 0M7J-4JH1-7AB8 to earn two free points.

Yahoo Weather:
I love the minimalist look of the 1x1 widget of this app. The weather details are very accurate.

Brilliant Quotes:
I always liked quotations; so I have this widget on my home screen too.

Screen 2:

Any Do:
The best to-do manager with THE best interface around, in my opinion.

Contact shortcuts:
The remaining items on this screen are contact shortcuts. A nice pretty picture of my closest and dearest people for quick dialing and messaging... I don't use the "Direct Dial" or "Direct Message" option, just the "Contact" shortcut.

Screen 3:

Jorte Calendar:
My favorite calendar app; what's more it syncs with my Google calendar. Might have tried out the Google Calendar app, but it does not have a good monthly view, which is what I need.

Screen 4:

Google Now:
This screen is fully used up by the Google Now widget. I love the way Now predicts a lot of things. Personally, the privacy issues don't bother me much either, as long as I am given relevant info right when I need it!

Other Apps:

RealCalc:
For a while, I had gone back to my studies. I use this calculator when I need the scientific help; otherwise, I go with the stock calculator.

Out of Milk:
I use this one to keep stock of available items at home and also as a running shopping list. I have tried quite a few shopping list apps and zeroed it on this one at the end.

Yahoo Folder:
This folder holds my two favorite Yahoo apps, Yahoo Messenger and Yahoo! Mail.

Google Folder:
This folder holds my most frequently used Google apps, GMail, Keep, Google+, Hangouts, Maps, Translate and Play Books.

Facebook:
The official Facebook app is another one I use occasionally ;)

Google Search Bar:
The Google search bar is also included in this screen.

Play Music:
This app has a good interface, but I don't like the fact that I cannot see my music folder-wise.

MX Player:
An excellent video player.

Pixlr Express:
A very good image editor. I often use it to play around with my pics.

Snapseed: 
This is also a very good image editor. I use it less often though.

CamScanner:
I use this very often to scan my favorite articles, pics, documents, anything at all.

Ted:
This app gives quick access to Ted Conferences and Talks. An nice way to keep myself updated.

WordWeb:
A good dictionary and it works offline.

NewsHunt:
This app shows up all local papers in India, and I believe this is an easy way for Indians to keep up with the home news.

Clean Master:
I trust this app to keep my mobile clean.

Flipboard:
I love the magazines for both their content and beauty.

Your Magnifier:
I installed this to use as a magnifying glass, should the need arise.

Tiny Flashlight:
Again, installed this in case I need it some day.

TubeMate:
It allows to download videos to your mobile. I use it occasionally if the net speeds are too slow for offline watching. Be careful, though. This app is not available in Play Store.

YouTube:
Well, like all of u out there, I too love this one.

Astro File Manager:
I use this file manager. This one can also work with Google Drive, Dropbox etc...

Google Drive:
Quite indispensable in my work. Keep sharing docs between my home PC and office PC.

Wallpaper Changer:
I use this software to rotate my wallpapers regularly. Neat app. Does what it says well.

And the absolutely indispensable games..........

Dots:
A beautiful and addictive hit game!

WordKick:
The goal is to change one four-letter word into another four-letter word by changing only one letter at the time. Very good indeed!

One Touch Drawing 2:
The challenge: Draw given unique shapes without raising your finger. The problem: You cannot draw the same line twice. A very addictive puzzle game.

Hangman Classic:
When I am in a mood for the classic word puzzle game.

Jigsaw Puzzles:
This game has 4 game modes: regular jigsaw, shuffle, swap, rotate.

Diamond Blast:
My daughter simply loves this one!

Classic Words Free:
Still learning the ropes of this game.

Minesweeper Classic:
The classic game for all time.

Snake '97:
Pure nostalgia! A remake of the original Snake.

Word Search:
The best Word Search game. Love it!


Try these wonderful apps and as always, do comment on your favorites too...

Velichenna Kaachiyathu - Coconut oil specially treated for healthy hair

Long long ago in Kerala, mothers used to boil coconut oil with special herbs and leaves. This treated oil was then massaged and applied lovingly on the scalps of little girls and boys, with the belief that this special oil would help hair grow long, thick and dark. Here I have explained the method for making kachiya velichenna, as it is locally called in Malayalam.

Heat 1/2 kg coconut oil, and add:

• 20 - 30 Tulsi (Holy Basil) leaves
• 2 - 3  Kattarvazha (Aloe Vera) pieces, large
• 8 - 10 Mailanchi (Henna) leaves
• 20 - 25 Chembarathi (Hibiscus) leaves
• 2 - 3 Chembarathi  (Hibiscus) flowers
• 10 - 20 Kurumulaku (Black pepper), crushed
• 20 - 30 Kaiyonni (Bhringraj) leaves
• 8 - 10 Nellikka (Amla / Gooseberry), crushed
• 30 - 40 Arya Veppila (Neem leaves)

and boil until the leaves turn light brown in color. Crush 5 - 10 Karpooram (Camphor) balls and put into the bottle. Strain oil and pour into the bottle.

All these ingredients are easily available in our house. Kaiyunni, arya veppila, mailanchi, tulsi, and chembarathi grow wild mostly and can be picked up right from the backyards of most houses. Nellikka, kurumulaku and karpooram is also easily available in any local store. The karpooram makes the oil smell divine. We also have a nice kattarvazha plant in our garden, so aloe vera is also available fresh. None of these items are indispensable; nor is the quantity sacrosanct. Every time, we make it at home, the proportions vary; occasionally, I even omit to include some items altogether. The number of leaves is just an indicative number; I often deviate from the quantities, and the oil has turned out just fine. You can also feel free to experiment.

Now for the qualities imparted to the oil....

• Coconut oil is a wonderful natural way to make your hair and skin soft, radiant and healthy. It acts as a great natural conditioner.
• Aloe vera is known to work wonders in promoting shine and moisture in hair, and preventing hair loss and dandruff. 
• Tulsi is a wonder herb which helps to achieve lustrous shiny and healthy hair. 
• Henna is perhaps the best hair conditioner of all;  it gives the hair body and bounce, promotes hair growth, checks premature graying, combats dandruff and promotes hair growth. 
• Hibiscus contains mucilage-a slippery plant extract which soothes dry scalp and de-tangles hair too. The petals are a natural hair dye and hair strengthening agent which prevents strands from breaking. 
• I'm not very sure about this, but black pepper is mentioned online as a viable method of making hair black. However, adding pepper to velichenna is a tradition with ages of experience behind it, right? So I'll just go along even without scientific proof, I think. 
• Regarding Kaiyonni, the herb has protective features against dandruff and pre-mature hair graying. It also has a beneficial cooling effect on the head and eyes. 
• Amla helps to preserve the natural, youthful hair color, and minimizes hair loss. It has the ability to penetrate scalp and strengthen hair at the root and helps prevent gray hair. 
• The anti-septic and anti-bacterial properties of Neem help in getting rid of dandruff keeping your scalp healthy and help in stimulating hair growth. It is also used as a natural conditioner for dry and fizzy hair.
• Coconut oil in which camphor has been dissolved is useful for treating itchy hair. This is useful against dandruff as well. It also gives the oil a gentle fragrance.

All these factors aside, the very act of making this oil and massaging my daughter's hair with it gives me joy beyond compare. I hope it also shows my daughter how much I love her. The massage hour is a very pleasant one too, with lots of stories, real and imaginary, passed between mother and daughter.


Note: This blog provides general information only. The content provided in this blog, and in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. For any specific medical issues, please contact a qualified professional.

Elephant Rhymes

This is a popular nursery song on elephants. My little niece sings it wonderfully... the actions accompanying it are so cute!

ആനക്കൊത്തിരി വയറുണ്ട്
നീളൻ തുമ്പിക്കൈയ്യുണ്ട്
തുമ്പപ്പുവിൻ  നിറമുള്ള
കൂർത്ത കൊമ്പുകൾ രണ്ടുണ്ട്
പൊറകുവശത്തൊരു വാലുണ്ട്
വീശിനടക്കാൻ ചെവിയുണ്ട്
കറുകറുത്തൊരു നിറമാണെങ്കിലും
വെളുവെളുത്തൊരു മനസാണ്
വടിയും വീശി നടക്കാനായ്
ആനപാപ്പാൻ  കൂട്ടുണ്ട്
അടിവെച്ചു ഗമയിൽ പോവാനായ്
തടിച്ച കാലുകൾ നാലുണ്ട് !!!

English version:

Annakothiri vayarundu
Neelan thumbikaiyundu
Thumbapoovin niramulla
Koortha kombukal randukka
Porukavashathoru vaalundu
Veeshinadackan cheviyundu
Karukarithoru niraanenkilum
Velu veluthoru manassanu
Vadiyum veeshi nadackaanaay
Aana pappan koottundu
Adi vechu gamayil povaanaay
Thadicha kaalukal naalundu

Save the Tiger

This is my little girl's assignment on tigers. I used Microsoft Publisher to format the page. Just a ready-made  theme. Easy work!

Hope this helps...

The refrigerator joke

Here's another series joke that was popular in those days....


Q: How do you put an elephant into a refrigerator in three steps?
A: 1. Open the fridge. 2. Throw elephant in. 3. Close the fridge.


Q: How do you put a camel into a refrigerator in four steps?
A: 1. Open the fridge. 2. Pull elephant out. 3. Push camel in. 4. Close the fridge.


Q: An old man was walking through a desert. He came across four palm tress, four cacti, four lizards, four scorpions, four gypsies and three camels. Why did he see only three camels?
A: Because the fourth camel is still inside the fridge!!!



It sounds very silly today, but we used to double-up laughing after cracking this one on unsuspecting kiddies... I tried it with my little one yesterday and it was a huge success. "The more things change, the more they remain the same" I guess!
Enjoy :)

Aana - Urumbbu jokes (Ant and Elephant jokes)

Now this one is going to be a very different post! I remember these jokes from my younger days...


Q: One day, the ant and the elephant were playing hide and seek, and it was the elephant's turn to find the ant. The elephant unerringly went straight into the temple where the ant was hiding and caught it. Now, how did the elephant know that the ant was hiding inside the temple????

A: Simple! The elephant saw the ant's slippers outside the temple, so he knew the ant was in there!!!

Note: This refers to the tradition of leaving footwear outside the temple premises...


Q: After the game, the ant and the elephant went on a bike to the beach. On the way, they had a terrible accident. The elephant was severely injured and had to be hospitalized. But the ant was unharmed! Why?

A: Well, the ant was wearing his helmet, whereas the elephant wasn't!

Note: I believe during these times, the helmet imposition was being actively protested by the general public, hence this tongue-in-cheek joke!


Q: When the elephant regained consciousness, it was lying in a hospital bed. And the ant was lying in a bed next to the elephant! Now, if the ant was uninjured, why was it lying on the hospital bed?

A: The ant was donating blood for the elephant!


That ends this series!!!
Do post in your comments about any ant-elephant jokes you have heard.

Kalidasa's Sanskrit Verses

This is one of my favorite poems by Kalidasa, the renowed Sanskrit poet.

The story goes that Kalidasa was once asked to compose a poem ending with the aksharamaala (Devanagiri alphabets) - क ख ग घ (Ka, Kha, Ga, Gha). The clever poet instantly quipped:

का तुम बाले - काञ्चनमाला 

कस्या: पुत्री - कनकल ताया |

किन्ते हस्ते - तालीपत्रं 

का वा रेखा - क ख ग घ ||

The rough translation is as follows:

Who are you, child - Kanchanamala

Whose child are you - Kankala is my mother

What is in your hand - Thaleepatram  (writing leaf)

What are you writing - Ka, Kha, Ga, Gha



Will post more verses as I find them....

Shlokas for everyday routines

The Hindu way of life prompts us to call for divine grace in even the most mundane daily action of an individual. This is perhaps a very subtle way to ensure that we routinely remember God without even realizing it. I think it is a good idea to incorporate prayers into the daily routine of children. It gives them a sense of bonding to our culture and sanskriti.

At a recent PTA meeting, I remember a teacher saying, "Whatever your religion, now is the time to teach your children religious texts, shlokas, passages, rituals etc... because whatever they are taught at this age, will most likely remain in their subconcious minds forever. And they learn fast at this age, too!" My daughter is now almost 7 years old.

I have now established the routine of sandhyanaamam in my house. Every evening at six o'clock, my daughter washes up and sits ready for the evening prayers. She can recite most of the shlokas from memory, too. And the keertanas.

In addition, we now chant mantras before specific activities. Hindu culture recommends that every human action be dedicated to God. Hence we invoke the blessings of the divine beings before (almost every) task. The list below is in no way exhaustive. There are mantras for almost everything under the sun, but these are the ones I am teaching my daughter now. As always, please consider this a work under progress... as I teach my daughter anything further, I'll be back to update.

The following are the mantras to be chanted everyday...

On getting up in the morning:

ഓം ഭൂർ ഭുവസ്വ തത് സവിതുർ വരേണ്യം 

ഭർഗോ ദേവസ്യ ധീമഹി ധിയോ യോന പ്രചോദയാത് 
ॐ भूर्भुवस्व तत सवितुर वरेण्यम 
भार्गो देवस्य धीमहि धियो योनः प्रचोदयात |

Om Bhur Bhuvasvah Tat Savitur Varenyam

Bhargo Devasya Dhi Mahi Dhiyo Yonah Prachodayat

Before stepping on the ground:

സമുദ്രവസനേ ദേവി പർവതസ്തന മണ്ടലേ 

വിഷ്ണുപത്നീ നമസ്തുഭ്യം പാദസ്പർശം ക്ഷമസ്വമേ
समुद्र वसने देवी पर्वतस्तन मंडले

विष्णुपत्नी नमस्तुभ्यं पादस्पर्शम क्षमस्वमे 

Samudra Vasane Devi Parvathasthana Mandale
Vishnupatnee Namasthubhyam Paadasparsham Kshamasvame

Before bath:

ഗംഗേ ച യമുനേ ചൈവ ഗോദാവരീ സരസ്വതീ 

നർമദേ സിന്ധു കാവേരി ജലേസ്മിൻ സന്നിധിം കുരു
गंगे च यमुने चैव गोदावरी सरस्वती

नर्मदे सिन्धु कावेरी जलेस्मिन सन्निधम कुरु 

Gange Cha Yamune Chaiva Godaavari Saraswati
Narmade Sindhu Kaaveri Jalesmin Sannidhim Kuru

Before eating:

അന്നപൂർണേ സദാ പൂർണേ ശങ്കരപ്രാണ വല്ലഭേ 

ജ്ഞാന വൈരാഗ്യ സിദ്ധ്യാർത്ഥം ഭിക്ഷാം ദേഹി ച പാർവതി 

अन्नपूर्णे सदा पूर्णे शंकर प्राण वल्लभे

ज्ञान वैराग्य सिध्यार्थं भिक्षां देहि च पार्वती 

Annapoorne Sadaa Poorne Shankarapraana Vallabhe

Gnaana Vairaagya Siddhyaartham Bhikshaam Dehi Cha Paarvathi

ബ്രഹ്മാർപണം ബ്രഹ്മഹാവിർ ബ്രഹ്മാഗ്നൗ ബ്രഹ്മണാഹുതം 

ബ്രഹ്മൈവ തേന ഗന്തവ്യം ബ്രഹ്മകർമ സമാധിനാ 

ब्रह्मार्पणं ब्रह्महाविर ब्रह्माग्नौ ब्राह्मणाः हुतं

ब्रह्मैव तेन गन्तव्यं ब्रह्मकर्म समाधिना 

Brahmaarpanam Brahmahaavir Brahmagnau Brahmanaahutam

Brahmaivatena Gantavyam Brahmakarma Samaadhinaa

Before studying (Vidyarajagopala Manthram):

ഓം കൃഷ്ണ കൃഷ്ണ ഹരേ കൃഷ്ണ
സർവജ്ഞത്വം പ്രസീദമേ
രമാരമണ വിശ്വേശ
വിദ്യാമാശു പ്രയശ്ചമേ
Om Krishna Krishna Hare Krishna
Sarvagnyathvam Praseedame
Ramaaramana Vishwasha
Vidyaamaashu Prayashchame

Before going out of the house (Ganesha Ekavimshathi):

This shloka includes 21 names of Ganesha. This is to be recited before beginning work or starting out of the house for anything. We request the remover of obstacles to assist us in all our endeavors.

ഗണംജയോ ഗണപതിർ ഹേരംബോ ധരണീധര:
മഹാഗണപതിർ ലക്ഷപ്രദ: ക്ഷിപ്രപ്രസാദന:
അമോഘസിദ് ധിരമിതൊ മന്ത്രശ് ചിന്താമണിർനിധി:
സുമംഗളോ ബീജമാശാപൂരകോ   വരദശ് ശിവ:
കാശ്യപോ നന്ദനോ വാചാസിദ്ധോഢുഠഢിവിനായക:
മോദകൈരെഭിരത്രൈക വിംശ്യത്യാനാമഭി: പുമാൻ
യ:സ്തൌതി മദ്ഗതമനോ: മദാരാധനതത്പര:
സ്തുതോ നാമ് നാം സഹസ്രേണ
തേനാഹം നാത്ര സംശയ:
നമോ നമ: സുരവര പൂജിതാംഘ്രയേ
നമോ നമോ നിരുപമമംഗളാത് മനേ
നമോ നമോ വിപുലപദൈകസിദ്ധയേ
നമോ നമ: കരി കലഭാനനായ തേ
Ganamjayo Ganapathir Herambho Dharaneedharah
Mahaganapathir Lakshapradah Kshipraprasadanah
Amokhasidh Dhiramitho Manthrash Chintamanir Nidhi
Sumangalo Beejamaashaapoorako Varadash Shiva
Kaashyapo Nandano Vaachasidhdhodumdi Vinayaka
Modakairebhirathraika Vimshyathyaanamabhipuman
Yahsthauthi Matgathamano Madaaradhana Thatparah
Stutho NaamNaam Sahasrena
Thenaaham Naathra Samshayah
Namo Namah Suravara PoojithaamKhraye
Namo Namo Nirupama Mangalaath Mane
Namo Namo Vipulapadaika Sidhaye
Namo Namah Kari Kalabhananaaya The

Before sleeping:

This shloka is assumed to have the power to ward off fearful dreams. It lists the ten names of Arjuna. This is the Malayalam version, so I haven't included the Devanagiri script.
അർജുനൻ ഫൽഗുണൻ പാർഥൻ വിജയനും 

വിശ്രുതമായ പേർ പിന്നെ കിരീടിയും 

ശ്വേതവാഹനൻ ധനഞ്ജയൻ ജിഷ്ണുവും 

ഭീതിഹരം സവ്യസാചി ഭീഭൽസുവും 

പത്തു നാമങ്ങളും ഭക്ത്യാ ജപിക്കിലോ 

നിത്യ ഭയങ്ങൾ അകന്നുപോം നിശ്ചയം 

Arjunan Phalgunan Paarthan Vijayanum
Vishruthamaayaper Pinee Kireetiyum
Shwetavahanan Dhananjayan Jishnuvum
Bheetheeharam Savyasaachi Bheebhalsuvum
Pathu Naamangalum Bhakthyaa Japikkilo
Nithya Bhayangal Akannupom Nischayam

Just before sleeping, we beg forgiveness for any wrongdoings, knowingly or unknowingly brought about.
കരചരണകൃതം  വാ കായജം കർമജം വാ 

ശ്രവണനയനജം വാ മാനസം വാ പരാധം 

വിഹിതമവിഹിതം വാ സർവമേതത് ക്ഷമസ്വ 

ജയ ജയ കരുണാബ്ധെ ശ്രീ മഹാദേവ ശംഭോ
करचरणकृतं वा कायजं कर्मजं वा

श्रवण नयनजं वा मानसं वापराधं 

विहितमविहितं वा सर्वमेतत क्षमस्व 

जय जय करुणाब्धे श्री महादेव शंभो 

Karacharanana Kritham Vaa Kaayajam Karmajam Vaa
Shravana Nayanajam Vaa Maanasam Vaa Paraadham
Vihitamavihitam Vaa Sarvametath Kshamaswa
Jaya Jaya Karunaabdhe Shree Mahaadeva Shambho

As always, do leave your comments.

Malayalam Tharattu Paattu - Omana Thingal Kidaavo

My little girl's favorite thaarattu paattu is Omana Thingal Kidavo. I think it is a favorite of many mallu kids all over the world.

It was composed renowned poet Shri Irayimman Thampi for putting the young Swati Thirunal to sleep. One interesting fact I cam across regarding this evergreen lullaby is that not even once do the lyrics ask the little one to go to sleep. The words reflect the happiness and gratitude of the family as his birth rescued the royal family from the threat of being annexed into British India for want of a male heir.

This lullaby is easily found all over the net, and yet... this song means much to my family and so I am adding it here. Hope you find it useful...

ഓമന തിങ്കള്‍ കിടാവോ- നല്ല കോമളത്താമാരപ്പൂവോ

പൂവില്‍ നിറഞ്ഞ മധുവോ- പരി പൂര്‍ണേന്ദു തന്‍റെ നിലാവോ

പുത്തന്‍ പവിഴക്കൊടിയോ- ചെറു തത്തകള്‍ കൊഞ്ചും മൊഴിയോ

ചാഞ്ചാടിയാടും മയിലോ - മൃദു പഞ്ചമം പാടും കുയിലോ

തുള്ളുമിളമാന്‍ കിടാവോ - ശോഭ കൊള്ളുന്നോരന്നക്കൊടിയോ

ഈശ്വരന്‍ തന്ന നിധിയോ - പരമേശ്വരിയേന്തും കിളിയോ

പാരിജാതത്തിന്‍ തളിരോ - എന്‍റെ ഭാഗ്യ ദ്രുമത്തിന്‍ ഫലമോ

വാത്സല്യ രത്നത്തെ വയ്പ്പാന്‍ - മമ വാച്ചോരു കാഞ്ചനച്ചെപ്പോ

ദ്രിഷ്ടിക്കു വച്ചൊരമൃതോ - കൂരിരുട്ടത്തു വച്ച വിളക്കോ

കീര്‍ത്തി ലതയ്ക്കുള്ള വിത്തോ - എന്നും കേടു വരാതുള്ള മുത്തോ

ആര്‍ത്തി തിമിരം കളവാന്‍ - ഉള്ള മാര്‍ത്താണ്ട ദേവ പ്രഭയോ

സുക്തിയില്‍ കണ്ട പൊരുളോ - അതി സൂക്ഷ്മമാം വീണാരവമോ

വമ്പിച്ച സന്തോഷവല്ലി - തന്‍റെ കൊമ്പത്തു പൂത്ത പൂവല്ലി 

പിച്ചകത്തിന്‍ മലര്‍ച്ചെണ്ടോ - നാവിനിച്ചനല്‍കുന്ന കല്‍ക്കണ്ടോ

കസ്തൂരി തന്റെ മണമോ - പേർത്തും സത്തുകൾക്കുള്ള ഗുണമോ

പൂമണമേറ്റൊരു കാറ്റോ - ഏറ്റം പൊന്നില്‍ തെളിഞ്ഞുള്ള മാറ്റോ

കാച്ചിക്കുറുക്കിയ പാലോ - നല്ല ഗന്ധമെഴും പനിനീരോ

നന്മ വിളയും നിലമോ - ബഹുധര്‍മങ്ങള്‍ വാഴും ഗൃഹമോ

ദാഹം കളയും ജലമോ - മാര്‍ഗഖേദം കളയും തണലോ

വാടാത്ത മല്ലികപ്പൂവോ - ഞാനും തെടിവച്ചുള്ള ധനമോ

കണ്ണിനു നല്ല കണിയോ - മമ കൈവന്ന ചിന്താമണിയോ

ലാവണ്യ പുണ്യ നദിയോ - ഉണ്ണി ക്കാര്‍വര്‍ണ്ണന്‍ തന്‍റെ കളിയോ

ലക്ഷ്മി ഭഗവതി തന്‍റെ - തിരു നെറ്റിയിലിട്ട കുറിയോ

എന്നുണ്ണിക്കൃഷ്ണന്‍ ജനിച്ചോ - പാരിലിങ്ങനെ വേഷം ധരിച്ചോ

പദ്മനാഭന്‍ തന്‍ കൃപയോ - ഇനി ഭാഗ്യം വരുന്ന വഴിയോ

Hindi Poem - Amar Purush (Mahatma Gandhi)

I have been looking all over the net for my old favorite Hindi poems. There are several excellent sites, http://hindipoetry.wordpress.com being one of the best. I found many of my not-forgotten-neither-remembered ones here. But then I could not find this poem anywhere online. (And I could remember this one fully!!!)

I believe I learned it for a recitation competition. It is a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. Don't remember the author's name, though. Here it is... 

अमर  पुरुष 

शांत स्वरूपी मूर्ति महान 

जग जन के प्राण समान 

सत्य अहिंसा तेरे बाण 

राम वचन में तन मन ध्यान 

है सुख शोभा सुन्दर ध्याम 

जग का प्यारा मोहन नाम 

कहते थे तुम आठो याम 

कथनी पीछे पहले काम 

मध्यपान को बंद कराया 

दीन दुखी का दुःख मिटाया 

जात पात को दूर भगाया 

जन जन के मन प्रेम  बढ़ाया 

हे कलियुग अवतार पुरुष 

कर्म मार्ग के अटल पुरुष 

वीर धीर गंभीर पुरुष 

अखिल लोक के अमर पुरुष 

English version:

Shanth swaroopi murthy mahan
Jag jan ke praan samaan
Sathya ahimsa tere baan
Raam vachan me tan man dhyaan

He sukh shobha sundar dhyaam
Jag ka pyaara Mohan naam
Kehte the tum aadhom yaam
Kadhni peeche pehle kaam

Madhyapaan ko bandh karaaya
Deen dukhi ka dukh mitaaya
Jaath paath ko door bhagaaya
Jan jan keman prem badhaaya

He kaliyug avatar purush
Karm maarg ke atal purush
Veer dheer gambheer purush
Akhil lok ke amar purush

PS: 

This is completely recollected from memory... Learned it more than a decade back... Do post comments if you spot any errors. Or if you simply liked it!

Malayalam Poem - Praave Praave Pokaruthe

This song is quite popular, having been featured in the favorite Manjadi series of edutainment CDs. It recites the efforts of a little child to woo a pigeon to come over. The child finds reasons for the pigeon to return to its cage, while the pigeon values its freedom and wants to fly away. My little girl loves it, and me too.

Try purchasing a Manjadi CD 2 to enjoy the song better... it has been beautifully presented there.

Praave Praave Pokaruthe by Ulloor S. Parameswara Iyer

Praave Praave Pokaruthe
Va Va Koottinakathaakkaam
Paalum Pazhavum Porenkil
Chorum Kariyum Njaan Nalkaam

Kollaam Kunje Ninnishtam
Thallaan Paadillennaalum
Njaan Angottekkillippol
Maanam Nokki Pokunnu

Ayyo Praave Pokaruthe
Payyum Daahavumundaame
Venal Kaalathuchakkyo
Maanam Nokki Sanchaaram

Enthinu Kunje Pedyinee
Eeshan Nalkiya Chirakille
Venumnedam Pokatte
Kaanum Vastu Bhujickatte

Praantha Praave Pokaruthe
Pakshe Vazhi Thettipome
Kuttinnaaru Ninakkuloo
Koottil Chennal Sukhamalle

Praantha Kunje Sarveshan
Paavangalkkoru Thunayille
Aa Vrikshakombbinudaveed -
Aaya Ninathuvan Ara Njodiyil !



Please do let me know if the wordings are incorrect. I'm not very certain about the last stanza. This is how my little girl sings it!

Sree Krishna Stuthi - Sandhyanaamam contd...

In continuation to the Sandhyanaamam series, I usually wind up with my favorite Sree Krishna stutis. Here they are...


കണ്ണനെ കാണണം കണ്ണനെ കാണണം 

കണ്ണനെൻ കണ്ണിനു കർപ്പൂരമാകണം 

അഞ്ജനലേപന രഞ്ജിത്തചഞ്ചല 

മഞ്ജുള ലൊചനന്തന്മുഖം കാണണം 

താവിയ പുഞ്ചിരി മായാതെ മിന്നുമാ 

മാധവൻതന്നുടെ ചെഞ്ചുണ്ടു കാണണം 

കണ്ണനെ കാണണം കണ്ണനെ കാണണം 

കണ്ണനെൻ കണ്ണിനു കർപ്പൂരമാകണം 

Kannane Kaananam Kannane Kaananam
Kannanen Kanninu Karpooramaakanam
Anjanalepana Ranjitha Chanchala
Manjulalochanan Thanmukham Kaananam
Thaaviya Punchiri Maayathe Minnumaa
Maadhavan Thannude Chenchundu Kaananam
Kannane Kaananam Kannane Kaananam
Kannanen Kanninu Karpooramaakanam...

New!
Sree Krishna Sandhyanaamam 

Jayajanardhana Krishna Radhikapadhe
Janavimochana Krishna Janmamochana
Garudavahana Krishna Gopikapadhe
Nayanamohana Krishna Neerajekshana
Sujanabaandhava Krishna Sundarakrithe
Madanakomala Krishna Madhavahare
Vasumatipathe Krishna Vasavanuja
Varagunakara Krishna Vaishnavakrithe
Suruchiranana Krishna Shauryavaridhe
Muraharavibho Krishna Mukthidayaka
Vimalapalaka Krishna Vallaveepadhe
Kamalalochana Krishna Kamadayaka
Vimalagathraka Krishna Bhakthavalsala
Charanapallavam Krishna Karunakomalam
Kuvalayekshana Krishna Komalakrithe
Thavapadaambhujam Krishna Sharanamekane
Bhuvananaayaka Krishna Pavanakrithe
Gunaganojwala Krishna Nalinalochana
Pranayavaridhe Krishna Gunaganakara
Ramasodara Krishna Deenavalsala
Kamasundara Krishna Pahisarvada
Narakanashana Krishna Narasakhajaya
Devakisutha Krishna Karunyambudhe
Kamsanashana Krishna Dwarakavasin
Bhasuratmaja Krishna Dehimangalam
Trippadambhujam Krishna Kamakomalam
Bhakthadasanaam Krishna Adiyanesadaa
Kaathukollane Krishna Sarvadavibho

ജയജനാർധനാ കൃഷ്ണാ രാധികാപതേ
ജനവിമോചനാ കൃഷ്ണാ ജന്മമോചനാ
ഗരുഡവാഹനാ കൃഷ്ണാ ഗോപികാപതേ
നയനമോഹനാ കൃഷ്ണാ നീരജേക്ഷണാ
സുജന ബാന്ധവാ കൃഷ്ണാ സുന്ദരാകൃതേ
മദനകോമളാ  കൃഷ്ണാ മാധവാഹരേ
വസുമതീ പതേ കൃഷ്ണാ വാസവാനുജാ
വരഗുണാകരാ കൃഷ്ണാ വൈഷ്ണവാകൃതേ
സുരുചിരാനനാ കൃഷ്ണാ ശൌര്യവാരിധേ
മുരഹരാവിഭോ കൃഷ്ണാ മുക്തിദായകാ
വിമലപാലകാ കൃഷ്ണാ വല്ലവീപതേ
കമലലോചനാ കൃഷ്ണാ കാമദായകാ
വിമലഗാത്രകാ കൃഷ്ണാ ഭക്തവത്സലാ
ചരണപല്ലവം കൃഷ്ണാ കരുണകോമളം
കുവലയേക്ഷണാ കൃഷ്ണാ കൊമളാകൃതേ

തവപദാംബുജം കൃഷ്ണാ ശരണമേകണേ 

ഭുവനനായകാ കൃഷ്ണാ പാവനാകൃതേ 
ഗുണഗണോജ്വലാ കൃഷ്ണാ നളിനലോചനാ 
പ്രണയവാരിധേ കൃഷ്ണാ ഗുണഗണാകരാ 
രാമസോദരാ കൃഷ്ണാ ദീനവത്സലാ 
കാമസുന്ദരാ കൃഷ്ണാ പാഹി സർവ്വദാ 
നരകനാശനാ കൃഷ്ണാ നരസഖാ ജയാ 
 ദേവകീസുതാ കൃഷ്ണാ കാരുണ്യാംബുധേ 
കംസനാശനാ കൃഷ്ണാ ദ്വാരകാവാസിൻ 
ഭാസുരാത്മജാ കൃഷ്ണാ ദേഹി മംഗളം 
ത്രിപ്പദാംബുജം കൃഷ്ണാ കാമകോമളം 
ഭക്തദാസനാം കൃഷ്ണാ അടിയനെ സദാ 
കാത്തുകൊള്ളണേ കൃഷ്ണാ സർവ്വദാ വിഭോ 

Anjana Sreedhara

The first stuti is Anjana Sreedhara by the famed Krishna devotee Poonthaanam. Note that every line begins with the syllables അ ആ ഇ ഈ ഉ ഊ...

അഞ്ജനശ്രീധര ചാരുമൂർത്തേ കൃഷ്ണ അഞ്ജലികുപ്പി വണങ്ങീടുന്നേൻ ...

ആനന്ദലങ്കാര വാസുദേവ കൃഷ്ണ ആതംഗമെല്ലാം അകറ്റീടെണേ...

ഇന്ദിരാനാഥ ജഗന്നിവാസാ കൃഷ്ണ ഇന്നെൻറെ മുന്നിൽ വിളങ്ങീടെണേ ...

ഈരെഴുലകിനും ഏകനാഥാ കൃഷ്ണ ഈരഞ്ചുദിക്കും നിറഞ്ഞരൂപാ ...

ഉണ്ണിഗോപാല കമലനേത്രാ കൃഷ്ണ ഉള്ളിൽ നീ വന്നു വസിച്ചീടെണേ ...

ഊഴിയിൽ വന്നു പിറന്ന നാഥാ കൃഷ്ണ ഊനം കൂടാതെ തുണച്ചീടെണേ ...

എന്നുളിൽ ഉള്ളൊരു താപമെല്ലാം കൃഷ്ണ എന്നുണ്ണി കണ്ണാ ശമിപ്പിക്കണേ ...

ഏടലർ ബാണനു തുല്യമൂർത്തെ കൃഷ്ണ ഏറിയ മോദേന കൈ തൊഴുന്നേൻ ...

ഐഹികമാകും സുഖത്തിലഹോ കൃഷ്ണ അയ്യോ നമുക്കൊരു മോഹമില്ലേ ...

ഒട്ടല്ല കൌതുകമന്തരംഗേ  കൃഷ്ണ ഓമൽ തിരുമേനി ഭംഗികാണ്മാൻ ...

ഓടക്കുഴൽ വിളി മേളമോടെ കൃഷ്ണ ഓടിവരികെൻറെ ഗോപബാലാ ...

ഔദാര്യ കോമള കേളിശീലാ കൃഷ്ണ ഔപമ്യമില്ല ഗുണങ്ങൾകേതും ...

അംബുജലോചന നിൻപാദപങ്കജ--മംബോടു ഞാൻ ഇദാ കൂമ്പിടുന്നേൻ ...

അത്യന്ദ സുന്ദരാ നന്ദസൂനോ കൃഷ്ണ അത്തൽ കളഞെന്നെ പാലിക്കണേ ...

കൃഷ്ണ മുകിൽവർണാ വൃഷ്ണികുലേശ്വരാ കൃഷ്ണാമ്പുജെക്ഷിണാ കൈ തൊഴുന്നേൻ ...

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ...

Anjana Sreedhara Charumoorthe Krishna Anjali Koopi Vanangidunnen.
Aananda Alangara Vaasudeva Krishna Aathangam Ellam Akattidene.
Indiranadha Jagannivasa Krishna, Innende Munnil Vilangidene.
Erezhulaginum Ekanaadha Krishna, Eeranju Dikkum Niranja Roopa.
Unni Gopala Kamalanethra Krishna, Ullil Nee Vannu Vilangidene.
Oozhiyil Vannu Piranna Naadha Krishna, Oonam Koodathe Thunachidene.
Ennulilulloru Taapamellam Krishna, Ennunikanna Shamipickene.
Edalalar Banannu Thulyamurthe Krishna, Ereeyamodhena Kaithozhunnen.
Aithikamaakum Sukhathilaho Krishna. Ayyo Enikkoru Mohamille.
Ottalla Kauthugamantharange Krishna. Omalthirumeni Bhangikaanaan.
Odakkuzhalvili Melamode Krishna, Odivarigende Gopabaala.
Oudharyakomala Kelisheela Krishna, Oupamyamilla Gunangalkethum.
Ambujalochana Ninpaada Pankajam, Ambodu Njaanidaa Koombidunnen.
Athyanda Sundara Nandasuno Krishna, Atthal Kalanjenne Paalikkene.
Krishna Mukilvarna, Vrushnee Kuleshwara, Krishnambujekshana Kaithozhunnen.
Krishna hare jaya, Krishna hare jaya, Krishna hare jaya, Krishna hare...


Its translation has been given by P R Ramachander (click here for the link) as follows:

Hey, pretty Krishna, who is black and who carries Lakshmi,
Salutations to you with folded hands,
Hey happy Krishna, who is decorated and who is Vasudeva,
Be pleased to remove all my sorrows.

Hey Krishna who lives all over the world and who is consort of Lakshmi,
Please come and appear before me,
Hey Krishna who is the only lord of fourteen worlds,
Hey God who fills all the ten directions fully,

Oh lotus eyed Krishna, who is the baby cowherd,
Be pleased to come and live inside me,
Oh Krishna who has taken birth on this earth,
Please help me to live without any problems.

Oh Krishna, you should put out the raging,
Problems of my heart, oh my baby Krishna,
Oh Krishna who is equal to the formidable Banasura,
I salute you with greatest happiness.

Oh Krishna I do not have any desire,
And alas I do not have any desire,
And Oh Krishna the curiosity with in me is great,
To see the beauty of your body, Oh Krishna.

Oh Krishna, along with the music of your flute with drum beats,
Oh Lad of the cowherds, please come running to me,
Oh pretty and charitable Krishna, who is playful,
There is no comparison at all for your qualities.

I salute your lotus like feet with love for  you,
Oh Lord with lotus like eyes,
Oh most pretty one, Ok Krishna ,oh  son of Nanda,
Please drive away my problems and take care of me.

Oh cloud coloured Krishna, Oh star of the clan of Vrushnees,
Oh Krishna with lotus like eyes, I salute you,
Victory to Krishna who is hari, Victory to Krishna who is Hari,
Victory to Krishna who is Hari, Krishna who is Hari.

Karimukil Varnante

I could not find much about this second stuti online. I found it originally in an old naamapustakam years back and learned it back then. Note that every line begins with the syllables ക കാ കി കീ കു കൂ ...

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ 
കരിമുകിൽവർണന്റെ തിരുവുടലെന്നുടെ അരികിൽവന്നെപ്പോഴും കാണാകേണം 

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ ...

കാലിൽ ചിലമ്പും കിലുക്കി നടക്കുന്ന ബാലഗോപാലനെ കാണാകേണം 

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ ...

കിങ്ങിണിയും വളമോതിരവും ചാർത്തി ഭംഗിയോടെൻ മുന്നിൽ കാണാകേണം 

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ ...

കീർത്തിയേറീടും ഗുരുവായൂർ വാഴുന്നോരാർത്തീഹരൻ തന്നെ കാണാകേണം 

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ ...

കുഞ്ഞികൈ രണ്ടിലും വെണ്ണ കൊടുത്തമ്മ രഞ്ജിപ്പിക്കുന്നതും കാണാകേണം 

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ ...

കൂത്താടീടും പശുക്കുട്ടികളുമായി ഒത്തുകളിപ്പതും  കാണാകേണം 

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ ...

കെട്ടിയിട്ടീടുമുരലും വലിചങ്ങു മുട്ടുകുത്തുന്നതും കാണാകേണം 

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ ...

കേകീകളെപോലെ നൃത്തമാടീടുന്ന ബാലഗോപാലനെ കാണാകേണം 

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ ...

കൈകളിൽ ചന്ദ്രനെ മെല്ലെവരുത്തിയ ലോകൈകനാഥനെ കാണാകേണം 

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ ...

കൊഞ്ചി കൊണ്ടോരോരോ വാക്കരുലീടുന്ന ചഞ്ചലനേത്രനെ കാണാകേണം 

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ ...

കോലും കുഴലും എടുത്തു വനത്തിൽപ്പോയ് കാലിമേക്കുന്നതും കാണാകേണം 

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ ...

കൗതുകമേറുന്നോരുണ്ണി ശ്രീകൃഷ്ണന്റെ ചേതോഹര രൂപം കാണാകേണം 

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ ...

കംസ സഹോദരി തന്നിൽ പിറന്നൊരു വാസുദേവൻ തന്നെ കാണാകേണം 

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ ...

കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ ജയ കൃഷ്ണാ ഹരേ 

Krishna Hare Jaya Krishna Hare Jaya Krishna Hare Jaya Krishna Hare.
Karimukil Varnante Thiruvudalennude Arikil Vannepozhum Kaanakenam
Krishna Hare Jaya...
Kaalil Chilambum Kilucki Nadackunna Baala Gopaalane Kaanakenam
Krishna Hare Jaya...
Kinginiyum Vala Mothiravum Chaarti Bhangiyodenmunnil Kaanakenam
Krishna Hare Jaya...
Keerthiyereedum Guruvaayoor Vaazhunnoraarthiharan Thanne Kaanakenam
Krishna Hare Jaya...
Kunjikai Randilum Venna Koduthamma Renjippickunnathum Kaanakenam
Krishna Hare Jaya...
Koothaadeedum Pashukuttikalumaayi Othukalipathum Kaanakenam
Krishna Hare Jaya...
Kettiyitteedum Uralum Valichangu Muttu Kuthunnathum Kaanakenam
Krishna Hare Jaya...
Kekikaleppole Nrithamaadeedunna Bala Gopalane Kaanakenam
Krishna Hare Jaya...
Kaikalil Chandrane Melle Varuthiya Lokaikanaadhane Kaanakenam
Krishna Hare Jaya...
Konchikkondororo Vaakkaruleedunna Chanchala Nethrane Kaanakenam
Krishna Hare Jaya...
Kolum Kuzhalum Eduthu Vanathilpoy Kaali Mekkunnathum Kaanakenam
Krishna Hare Jaya...
Kauthukamerunnorunni Sreekrishnante Chethohararoopam Kaanakenam
Krishna Hare Jaya...
Kamsa Sahodari Thannil Pirannoru Vaasudevan Thanne Kaanakenam
Krishna Hare Jaya...
Krishna Hare Jaya Krishna Hare Jaya Krishna Hare Jaya Krishna Hare.


Also see http://randomwritez.blogspot.in/2013/04/sandhyanaamam-hindu-evening-prayers.html for the complete naamajapams that we recite before Sree Krishna Stutis.

Neethisaaram - Part 4

continued...

6. One can never change the nature of the beast!

Garlic, even if planted  in camphor pot, fertilized with aromatic herbs and sprinkled with rose water, still retains its stinking smell.

The actual text talks about planting garlic in karpooram, fertilizing it with kasturi, and sprinkling it with panineer... Can that make any difference to the overpowering stench of the bulb? Surely not!

A parallel would be the story of the blue fox. A fox falls into a tub of blue and emerges as a blue fox. All the animals of the forest are intimidated by the fox, and he eventually becomes their king. But as luck would have it, one full moon night, when all the other foxes started howling, the blue fox could not help howling along with the other. Its true colors revealed, the fox was forced to run for its life. The essence of the text is that a leopard cannot hide its spots. Truth will always out!

7. A student's knowledge comes from 1/4 Teacher, 1/4 Self, 1/4 Peers, 1/4 Time.

A student obtains a quarter of his knowledge from his guru, a quarter from his own self, another  quarter from his classmates and the last quarter over time.

Learning has several dimensions. Knowledge can be imbibed from several quarters. One's parents, teachers, friends, the society itself, the nature outside - all these elements contribute to the teaching of an individual.

One learns foremost from the guru or teacher. The specialized knowledge that an expert can provide cannot be matched by any other source. In traditional Indian way of schooling, the student lodges with the Guru and his family for the duration of his studies. This enables the teacher to inculcate good habits, attitudes and learning to his ward.

Students discussing lessons is a common sight in school corridors during exam time. In addition, friends are often privy to problems plaguing young minds, more often so than the parents concerned. In one's life, one's peers and friends highly influence one's experiences and attitudes.

It is very common to blame circumstances for one's shortcomings. But it is well to remember that many who come from humble beginnings have managed to overcome their difficulties and rise to glorious heights. Nature of an individual can triumph over the debilitating effects of nurture and circumstances. It is always the personal convictions of the person that determine his/her future.

Time is not only the greatest healer; time is the greatest teacher too. It is one's experiences in life over time which teaches lessons that truly sink in.

I wholeheartedly agree!






You can find a copy of Neethisaaram here at http://en.sreyas.in/malayalam-spiritual-ebooks-download. Be warned, the text is in Malayalam though.

Malayalam Poem - Poombatta (Butterfly)

A very dear Malayalam poem I learnt in class 1 or 2. It is about a butterfly's life. No idea who wrote it, though. Do drop in a comment if you recognize the author...


Pala pala naalukal njanoru puzhuvaay
Pavizha kootilurangi,
Irulum vettavum ariyaathangane
Irunnu naalukal neekki
Arali chediyude ila thannadiyil
Aruma kingini pole,
Veeshum kaattathilakithulli
Veezhathangine ninnu !!
Oru naal sooryan udichuyarumpol
Vidarum chirakukal veeshi,
Purathu vannu azhaku thudikkum
Poombatta thaliraayi
Vidarnu vilasum pani neer poovil
Parannu pattyirunnu,
Poovil thullum poovathu pole
Poonthenundu kazhinju…


പല പല നാളുകൾ ഞാനൊരു പുഴുവായ് 

പവിഴ കൂട്ടിലുറങ്ങി 

ഇരുളും വെട്ടവും അറിയാതങ്ങനെ 

ഇരുന്നു നാളുകൾ നീക്കി 

അരളി ചെടിയുടെ ഇല തൻ അടിയിൽ 

അരുമ കിങ്ങിണി പോലെ 

വീശും കാറ്റത്തിളകി തുള്ളി 

വീഴാതങ്ങനെ നിന്നു !!

ഒരു നാൾ സൂര്യൻ ഉദിച്ചുയരുമ്പോൾ 

വിടരും ചിറകുകൾ വീശി 

പുറത്തു വന്നു അഴകു തുടിക്കും 

പൂമ്പാറ്റ തളിരായി. 

വിടർന്നു വിലസും പനിനീർപ്പൂവിൽ 

പറന്നു പറ്റിയിരുന്നു 

പൂവിൽ തുള്ളും പൂവതുപോലെ 

പൂന്തേൻനുണ്ടു കഴിഞ്ഞു !!

Toddler Speeches

My little girl is often required to make little speeches for her English classes. I'm posting them here. Mostly they are five sentences each per topic. Hope it'll be useful for some harried moms out there...

Home – my sweet home

I live at .........................................................
My home houses a wonderful family which includes my grandparents, my parents,................. and myself.
My home is very tidy and beautiful and I help my elders to keep it clean.
I think that my home is the best place in the world.
Mid pleasures and palaces though we may roam, 
Be it ever so humble, there's no place like home; 

My Mother

My mother's name is ........................ but I call her Amma.

She is a ........................ (job). 

My mother takes good care of me. 

She makes me very happy. 

I love my mother very much.

My Best Friend

My best friend’s name is..........................................

She is very friendly and shares everything with me.

We play many games together. 

We often go to each other’s houses for playing too.

I love my friend very much.

My School

I study at .......................................... 

My school, which is situated in the heart of.........................., is a temple of learning.

Here we learn basic things like manners, discipline and punctuality along with our studies.

Our teachers also pay much attention to sports and other co-curricular activities.

Recently my school was awarded the distinction of being ......................................

I think that my school is the best school in the whole world.

(School song - first two lines......)

About my pet

I have a wonderful cat named Rocket at home.
He is black and white in color and looks like a zebra.
He loves to drink lots of milk.
When I reach home after school, he comes running to play with me.
I love him very much and he loves me too.

Healthy Food

We must always eat healthy food.
Healthy eating means eating a wide variety of nutritious foods.
We should try to eat lots of vegetables, fruits, grains and beans.
We should also eat dairy products or nuts for protein.
Healthy eating habits are essential for living a long and happy life.

Health is Wealth

Health is the most precious possession of man.
Healthy people can work and play for long hours without getting tired.
Good health needs cleanliness, regular exercise, good food, sound sleep and good thoughts.
Carlyle has said that "He who has health has hope and he who has hope has everything".
Thus the well-known proverb "Health is Wealth" perfectly captures the significance of health.

How I Save Water

Water is one of nature’s most important gifts to mankind.

Safe drinking water is essential for all living beings. 

To save water, I always close the tap while brushing my teeth.

For my bath, I use water from a bucket instead of the shower. 

We also reuse the kitchen water for plants.

Water is Life. Save Water! Save Life!

Churidar

Churidar is my favorite dress.  

They are tight trousers worn by the people of South Asia.
Churidars are usually worn with a kameez.
Mughal rulers and Kathak dancers wear churidars.
These pretty dresses can be silk or cotton or polyester.

Short story - Sand and Stone

Two friends, Ram and Shyam, were walking through the desert. 

They had a fight and Ram hit Shyam. Shyam wrote in the sand: “TODAY MY BEST FRIEND HURT ME.”

They reached a mire and Shyam fell into it. 

Ram saved him. 

Shyam wrote on a stone: “TODAY MY BEST FRIEND SAVED MY LIFE.”

Ram asked Shyam, “When I hit you, you wrote in the sand. When I saved you, you write on stone. Why?”

Shyam replied: “When someone hurts us, we should write it in sand so that winds of forgiveness can erase it. But, when someone helps us, we must write it in stone so that we will remember forever.”

Moral of the story is: 

Write your hurts in the sand, and carve your benefits in stone. 

Thought for the day

We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit.

                                         Aristotle

Excellence comes about as a result of our habits. Successful people are simply those with successful habits. 

We become just by doing just actions, temperate by doing temperate actions, brave by doing brave actions. Excellence is the gradual result of always striving to do better. 

I repeat the thought for the day - 

We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit. Aristotle