Indian Columbus

Located just 3 km from Munnar Bus Station on Bison Valley Road, Pothamedu Viewpoint is a serene and picturesque spot that should not be missed on any trip to Munnar. Known for its breathtaking vistas, this viewpoint provides an immersive experience of Munnar's natural beauty, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking tranquility and scenic landscapes. As you approach Pothamedu Viewpoint, you're greeted by endless stretches of tea plantations that cover the hills like a green blanket. The lush meadows and winding roads below create a mesmerizing view, with cars cautiously navigating the curves as they make their way through the hills. The sight of the rolling tea estates and the surrounding greenery is enough to fill any visitor with a sense of calm and rejuvenation. From this vantage point, you can take in the sweeping views of the Kannan Devan Hills, a region renowned for its verdant tea gardens. On clear days, the view extends even further, revealing glimpses of th

Munnar, known for its stunning landscapes, also offers cultural experiences that are truly captivating. On my recent visit, I attended a performance that showcased two of Kerala’s most revered traditions: Kathakali and Kalaripayattu. The evening was an immersive journey into the heart of Kerala’s artistic heritage. The show began with a unique experience—the live makeup session of the Kathakali artist. Watching the transformation unfold before my eyes was fascinating. The precision and attention to detail in applying the vibrant colors and elaborate facial designs were mesmerizing, providing a glimpse into the meticulous preparation behind this classical dance form. Once the makeup was complete, the Kathakali performance commenced. Known for its expressive storytelling and colorful costumes, Kathakali has its roots in Kerala and dates back to the 17th century. The performance I witnessed brought to life scenes from the ancient epics Ramayana and Mahabharata. The combination of lively a

Rose Garden, situated on National Highway 49, is just two kilometers from Munnar's city center at an elevation of 3,500 feet above sea level. Contrary to what the name suggests, the well-maintained garden features a diverse array of flowers beyond just roses. Spanning two acres, Rose Garden boasts hundreds of plant varieties and is renowned for its flora, including cardamom plantations, various spices, and crops such as vanilla. The garden also features a multitude of flowers and trees like litchi, rambutan, strawberry, and amla. Despite its well-kept appearance, the garden is frequently crowded and may not be considered a must-see attraction in Munnar. Happy travelling.

I have been extensively documenting the Kantimati Sameta Nellaiyappar Temple in Tirunelveli, exploring its detailed architecture, layout, iconography, deities, and other noteworthy aspects. In this episode, I will present a consolidated summary of all the unique or special features of the temple. Although I have covered most of them already, this will serve as a comprehensive overview. 1) The temple spans 14 acres, measuring 850 feet in length and 756 feet in width 2) The longest Sannadhi street of any temple, approximately 3 km long (Sannadhi street is the street facing the sanctum sanctorum.) 3) The temple has 32 sacred water bodies (Teerthams), of which nine are considered the most important. Among them are the Pottamarai, Karumaari, Vairava, and Sarva Teerthams, all located within the temple. Outside the temple, the other five are Kambai, Teppakulam, Sindu Poondurai, Durga Teertham, and Kurukkuthurai. 4) This is one of five primary venues where Lord Nataraja performed his divine da

I have been thoroughly documenting the Kantimati Sameta Nellaiyappar Temple in Tirunelveli, delving into its intricate architecture, layout, iconography, deities, and various other significant aspects. In this episode, I will turn my focus to the temple's rich musical heritage. Muthuswami Dikshitar , one of the trinity of Carnatic music, composed a song in the 1830s that pays homage to Kantimati: Ragam: Hemavati Talam: Aadhi Pallavi: Sri Kanthimatim Shankara Yuvatim Sri Guruguha Jananeem Vandeham Charanam: Hreemkara Beejakaara Vadanaam Hiranya Maimaya Shobaa Sadanam Paaka Shasanaadi Deva Vinutham Parashurama Natha Hima Shaila Suthaam Shuka Shounakaadi Sadaaraadhithaam Shudhha Thaamrapamee Thatasthitham Shankadyashtothhara Sahasra Kalashaabhisheekha Modaam Surahithaam Translation: Pallavi: I bow to Sri Kanthimati, the young wife of Shankara (Lord Shiva), I salute the mother of Sri Guruguha (Lord Muruga). Caranam: She has a face that embodies the sacred syllable 'Hreem' and

I have been extensively documenting the Kantimati Sameta Nellaiyappar Temple in Tirunelveli, exploring its architecture, layout, iconography, deities, and various significant elements. In this episode, I will focus on the large sculptures found on the temple's pillars. Here is a list of notable sculptures: Two life-size female sculptures in front of the Shanmukha shrine in the inner prakara of Kantimati. A female monkey holding her infant in the Sangili Mandapa. A male monkey  in the opposite direction of the female monkey in the Sangili Mandapa. Two males holding deepams in their hands in the Sangili Mandapa. Vali and Sugreeva  facing each other in the opposite pillars in the Sangili Mandapa. Arjuna in the Sangili Mandapa. Bheema with Purusha Mriga behind him in the Sangili Mandapa. Kurathi carrying a child in the Mukha Mandapa of Nellaiyappar. The Noble Warrior in the Mukha Mandapa of Nellaiyappar. A female dancer in the Mukha Mandapa of Nellaiyappar. Pagadai Raja in the