Indian Words in English

 Indian Words in English

 We commonly use a number or words in English without thinking of their origins. A lot of these originated closer home. Following are some of the words we use oh so often, which are borrowed from Indian languages -

Avatar

From Hindi अवतार, from Sanskrit, descent of a deity from a heaven

Bandanna 

from bandhna (बांधना) to tie a scarf around the head.

Bangle 

from bāngṛī बांगड़ी, a type of bracelet.

Blighty 

"Britain" (as a term of endearment among British troops stationed in Colonial India): from Hindi-Urdu vilāyatī (विलायती, ولايتى) "foreign", ultimately from Arabo-Persian ولايتى "provincial, regional".

Bungalow

from बंगला banglA and Urdu بنگلہ banglA, literally, "(house) in the Bengal style".

Bazaar from Market

Cheetah 

from cītā, चीता, meaning "variegated".

Chit 

from चिट्ठी Chitthi, a letter or note.

Chutney 

from चटनी chatni, meaning "to crush"

Cot 

from Khāt, खाट, a portable bed.

Chowkat 

from Chokaath, Urdu, a door frame.

Cummerbund 

from kamarband , cf. कमरबन्द - Urdu کمربند, meaning "waist binding" [ultimately from Persian کمربند]

Cushy

probably from khushi, cf. Hindi ख़ुशी - Urdu خوشی "easy, happy, soft" [ultimately from Persian]; but some sources prefer an origin from "cushion"

Dacoit 

from डकैत् Dakait, meaning a member of a class of criminals who engage in organized robbery and murder. Hence also dacoity (=banditry)

Dekko 

(UK slang for 'a look') from देखो Dekho, the imperative 'look', (دیکھو देखो ) meaning look at or study something.

Dinghy

from Dinghi, small boat, wherry-boat

Garam Masala

from Hindi and Urdu गरम मसाल‌ा گرم مصالح garam masālā, literally "warm ( = hot) mixture",from Persian گرم garm 'warm, hot' and Arabic مصالح maṣāliḥ 'benefits, requirements, ingredients'.

Guru

from Hindi guru "teacher, priest," from Sanskrit गुरुः guruḥ "one to be honored, teacher," literally "heavy, weighty.

Gymkhana 

A term which originally referred to a place where sporting events take place and referred to any of various meets at which contests were held to test the skill of the competitors. In English-speaking countries, a gymkhana refers to a multi-game equestrian event performed to display the training and talents of horses and their rider [-khānā from Pers. khānāh خانه "house, dwelling"]

Jaconet

modification of Sanskrit jagannaath, from Jagannath (Puri), [India], where such cloth was first made.

Jinnah cap

after Pakistani statesman Muhammad Ali Jinnah died in 1948. A hat shaped like a fez but made of real or imitation karakul and worn by Pakistani Muslims on occasion. It is called a "Karakulli topi" (Topi meaning cap).

Jodhpurs

Full-length trousers, worn for horseback riding, that are close-fitting below the knee and have reinforced patches on the inside of the leg. Named after Jodhpur , where similar garments are worn by Indian men as part of everyday dress.

Juggernaut 

from Jagannath (Sanskrit: जगन्नाथ jagannātha), a form of Vishnu particularly worshipped at the Jagannath Temple, Puri, Odisha where during Rath Yatra festival thousands of devotees pull temple carts some 14m (45 feet) tall, weighing hundreds of tons through the streets.

Jungle 

from जङल् jangal, another word for wilderness or forest.

Khaki

from खकि khākī "of dust colour, dusty, grey", cf. Hindi ख़ाकी - Urdu خاکی [ultimately from Persian].

Karma

from Sanskrit, the result of a person's actions as well as the actions themselves. It is a term about the cycle of cause and effect.

Loot 

from LooT लूट, meaning 'steal'. Robbery

Multan

from Multan, Pakistan: A kind of rug prevalent there.

Mogul

from Hindi and Urdu: An acknowledged leader in a field, from the Mughal rulers of India like Akbar and Shah Jahan, the builder of the Taj Mahal.

Maharajah

from Hindi and Sanskrit: A king.

Mantra

from Hindi and Sanskrit: a word or phrase used in meditation.

Nirvana

(in Buddhism) a transcendent state in which there is neither suffering, desire, nor sense of self, and the subject is released from the effects of karma and the cycle of death and rebirth. It represents the final goal of Buddhism.

Pashmina

from Hindi पश्मीना, Urdu پشمينه, ultimately from Persian پشمينه.

Poori

from Hindi poori, from Sanskrit पुर (pura) or "cake".

Punch

from Hindi and Urdu panch پانچ, meaning "five". The drink was originally made with five ingredients: alcohol, sugar, lemon, water, and tea or spices^. The original drink was named paantsch.

Pundit 

from पण्डित Pandit, meaning a learned scholar or Priest.

Pukka 

(UK slang: "genuine") from Pakkā पक्का,پکا cooked, ripe, solid.

Pyjamas

from Hindi, पैजामा (paijaamaa), meaning "leg garment", coined from Persian پاى "foot, leg" and جامه "garment" .

Raita

from Hindi and Urdu रायता ریتا rayta. yogurt based dish, some add sliced/chopped/diced, cucumbers, onions, tomatoes, pineapples, pomegranate or other salads to complement rice or roti meals.

Roti

from Hindi and Urdu रॊटी روٹی roti "bread"; akin to Prakrit रॊट्ट rotta "rice flour", Sanskrit रोटिका rotika "kind of bread".

Shawl

A piece of fabric worn by women over the shoulders or head or wrapped around a baby. From Urdu and Persian šāl, probably from Shāliāt, the name of a town in India.

Sorbet

Derived from the Urdu word Sharbat which originally comes from Arabic; meaning juice.

Shampoo

Derived from Hindustani chāmpo (चाँपो [tʃãːpoː]).

Thug 

from Thagi ठग, meaning "thief or con man".

Toddy (also Hot toddy) 

from Tārī ताड़ी, juice of the palmyra palm.

Typhoon

from Urdu طوفان toofaan. A cyclonic storm.

Verandah

from Hindi baramdaa बरामदा or another Indian language, but ultimately probably from Portuguese or Spanish.

Yoga

From Sanskrit term (योग) for ancient Hindu spiritual practices common in India that have become internationally popular.

Top 10 cities for the Indian foodie 

Top 10 cities for the Indian foodie :

                          

A culinary adventure is one of the best ways to end the year. Here is what you can get in top ten food destinations in India.  

If you are out of ideas for an adventure, how about a culinary adventure this vacation? Take your pick from our list of top ten Indian locations you shouldn’t miss a meal at: 

 

1. Delhi: 

The capital city can also be safely termed the food capital of India. A plethora of dishes, from chaats, cholebature torajma chawal and parathe, make it an ideal destination for an outstanding gastronomic treat. A good mix of popular Punjabi dishes and street food, Delhi offers innumerable goodies. One should not miss the variety of delights at Chandni Chawk and Bengali market. 

 

 

2. Goa: The tourist state offers a heady cocktail of good food. Go high on the Goan Feni (a drink made from cashew fruit), and dip your nose into Goan sausages, Vindaloo, Pao, sorpotel and the famous Goan fish curry. Do not forget the local sweet Bebinca, made from layered pancakes and sweetened coconut milk. 

 

3. Kolkata: If sweets like rasgullas and sandesh are what comes to your mind on hearing Bengal, those who’ve been to the streets of Kolkata will offer a list you wouldn’t hear the end of. The fiery jhaalmuri, puchkas that set your tongue on fire and the unforgettable taste of Hilsa (fresh water fish) cooked in mustard gravy; as well as the quick egg rolls wrapped in tangy sauce: all these are Kolkata’s very own. 

 

 

4. Lucknow: Wish to eat like a king? Head to Lucknow, an elaborate spread awaits you. The Lucknowi fare has come to be synonymous with that of royalty, what with the recipes being originally made for kings. Dig into variety of kebabs, ranging from Kakori, Shami, Boti, Patili, Ghutwa and Seekh. Dum style cooking andAwadhicuisine: we owe it all to Lucknow. 

 

 

5. Mumbai: Vadapav and masala tea, anyone? Mumbai deserves full credit for making the tasty, stomach- filling, yet cheap vadapav a staple. Just as it suits the office goers, here is a grub that can be had in a hurry, and yet is filling and nutritious. Mumbai is a melting point of a mix of food habits: Irani, Chinese, Korean, and Continental: the cosmopolitan dwellers imply that the city has a wide variety of cuisine to offer. Street food is most popular in Mumbai, including Panipuri, Bhelpuri, and Dabeli and South Indian dishes. 

 

 

6. Ahmedabad: A haven for vegetarians: one gets a banquet of delightful vegetarian indulgencesin Gujarat. From the tasty khandvi and Dhokla (both snacks made from gram flour and curd) to the rich, creamy Basundi, and again; an assortment of chaats – one cannot stop at just one pick. 

 

 

7. Hyderabad: One stop that is a non- vegetarian’s dream come true. Spicy and full of flavor, much of the cuisine is oriented around meat and rice: local biryani and the stew chaakna and Mirchkasalan (yes,chili curry!) will not fail the spice- lover’s tongue. Street food such as pakora, kheemesamosa, Tootak (spicy kheema in gram flour batter) are a few specialties from Hyderabad.          

 

 

8. Kochi: When it comes to serving guests, God’s own country is in top gear. If you cannot fathom the idea of having coconut in your food, Kochi will teach you otherwise. The traditional Kerala thali or sadya (cooked mostly in coconut oil) which includes close to 28 dishes, such as  the mixed vegetable dish, the tangy, tasty aviyal to the sweet- sour- spicy pulyinji (tamarind-ginger dish) has a unique flavor. Ripe banana chips is a favorite among non- Keralites. Non- vegetarians: do not miss the Kerala porota – beef fry combo.

 

 

 9. Coorg/ Kodagu: Tucked in coffee plantations and picturesque hills, the Kodava community has a very unique food culture. Snacks are largely rice and coconut based. Among these, what a foodie will take away is the taste of Coorgi pandi curry (pork in a spicy tamarind flavored sauce) with kadambuttu(steamed rice balls). 

 

 

10. Chennai:  Here’s the place that gave India its favourite breakfast menu: Dosa, Idly, Sambar. A variety of chutneys, Chennai’s authentic Rasam and vegetarian dishes the way only Tamilians can make it. And not to miss the fliter coffee, Chennai is a sure show stopper for the food lover.   

 

But really- to single out a few towns in India as serving the best food? We believe it is an impossible task that we set out to do; and one that we cannot do justice to. We say, every small town in India hasa share of indigenous and exotic recipes to tickle our taste buds. Nowgo on, and binge. And give us a new list next time. Happy eating!

 

Kumbh Mela

                                

The Meaning of Kumbh

The literal meaning of Kumbh is a pitcher, but its elemental meaning is something else. Even as a symbol of pitcher, Kumbh is synonymous with holy activities as in daily life a pitcher (or kalash) is an integral part of all sacred activities in Hindu culture, and this pitcher is a symbol of Kumbh.

Holy scriptures say that in a pitcher, its mouth (opening) symbolizes the presence of Vishnu, its neck that of Rudra, the base of Brahama, all goddesses in the center and the entire oceans in the interior, thus encompassing all the four Vedas. This itself establishes the significance of the Kumbh as symbolized by the pitcher.

Different Forms of Kumbh

We shall not dwell upon the literary meaning of the word Kumbh, but we would like to mention the synonyms and origins. The Kumbh is a pitcher. Kumbh is the human body, it is the abdomen, and the sea, earth, sun and Vishnu are synonyms of Kumbh. The pitcher, sea, river, ponds and the well are symbols of Kumbh as the water from these places is covered from all sides. The sky has the cover of the wind, the sun covers the entire universe with its light, and the human body is covered with cells and tissues. That is why it is Kumbh. Desire, that is longing, is also Kumbh. God Vishnu is also Kumbh as He pervades the entire creation, and the creation pervades in Him.

Elemental Meaning of Kumbh

Kumbh is the confluence of all our cultures. It is the symbol of spiritual awakening. It is the eternal flow of humanity. It is the surge of rivers, forests and the ancient wisdom of the sages. It is the flow of life itself. It is the symbol of the confluence of nature and humanity. Kumbh is the source of all energy. Kumbh makes humankind realize this world and the other, sins and blessings, wisdom and ignorance, darkness and light. Holy rivers are the symbols of the lyrical flow of humanity. Rivers are indicators of the flow of water of life in the human body itself. In the human body that is an embodiment of home, nothing is possible without the five elements. The elements – fire, wind, water, earth and sky – symbolize the human body. The great sage-poet Sant Kabir has explained this sublime thought in his typical manner.

The Himalaya is the abode of the soul of the gods. The Holy Ganga embarks upon its journey from there, encompassing the forests, the mountain sages and the culture of the villages. The Yamuna is a co-traveler as it puts an end to all sins, and it is known variously as Tripathga, Shivpuri and other names. This is the Ganga that liberated the children of the Suryavanshi king Sagar. Its holy water is considered nectar itself.

Five Types of Kumbh Melas

• Maha Kumbh Mela - occurring every 144 years - only in Allahabad. 
• Purna Kumbh Mela - after every 12 years - last one took place in January 2001 in Allahabad. 
• Ardh Kumbh - 6th year after Kumbh Mela. 
• Kumbh Mela - every 3rd years, rotating through Prayag, Nasik, Haridwar and Ujjain. 
• Magh Mela - Annual, held every year except years of Kumbh Mela and Ardh Kumbh Mela Held in Magh (Jan-Feb); hence the name. Only in Allahabad. 

The Site of the Observance Rotating Between Four Pilgrimages Places on Four Sacred Rivers
• Haridwar (Uttarakhand) on the Ganges River. 
• Prayag,Allahabad (Uttar Pradesh) at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna. 
• Nasik (Maharashtra) on the Godavari River. 
• Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh) on the Shipra River. Timings: It is celebrated at different locations depending on the position of the planet of Brashpati (Jupiter), the sun and the moon. Positions of the Planets and celebrated location

CITY	Jupiter	Sun	Moon
Haridwar	Aquarius	Aries	Sagittarius
Prayag (Allahabad)	Taurus	Capricorn	Capricorn
Nasik	Leo	Cancer	Cancer
Ujjain	Leo	Aries	Aries

Take a Dip Make a Wish If you go by the Hindu mythologies, then this is the only time and place in the world where you can unburden your sins and achieve 'Nirvana' from the vicious cycle of birth and re birth. Take dips in the holy water of Ganges that is said to wash away all the sins of a person. Light a Diya and make a wish, they do come true!

Sojourn on the Ashrams on the Banks
To live among the Sadhus, who have dedicated their entire lives in meditation and fulfilling spiritual deeds is indeed a unique experience of life. In Haridwar there are many such Ashrams where tourists can stay to enjoy the life of a saint besides indulging into various Yoga and Meditation regimes. Surrender to Peaceful Activities

Taking dips three times in a day, attending yoga classes, listening to the divine lectures and participating in the cultural programmes are just a few of the activities that one can enjoy during the famous Kumbh Mela in Haridwar. Travel to Haridwar and experience the inexperienced. Significance of Kumbh Mela

Kumbh Mela is not just a mere festivity like Diwali and Holi, but holds lot of importance for people in India. People look up to Kumbh Mela with highest regard, as this event gives them a golden opportunity to liberate themselves from the miseries and sufferings of life. It enables them to take a holy dip in the sacred water and wash away all the sins they have committed in the past. People come from different parts of the country to be a part of this sacred ceremony. It is believed that taking a holy dip in water paves way for attainment of Moksha. 

Rig Veda has a mention about the significance of convergence of river Ganges, Yamuna and Saraswati at Prayag or Sangam.

References can be found about the significance of this ritual in Varaha Purana and Matsya Purana as well. There is a belief that the ashram of the learned Bharadvaja, where Lord Ram, Laxman and Sita lived at the time of their exile, was situated at Sangam. It is said that a number of saints including the great Shankaracharya and Chaitanya Mahaprabhu visited Sangam and observed the Kumbh Mela. The great Indian epics such the Ramayana and Mahabharata have mentioned that a yagna was conducted by Lord Brahma at Sangam. Sacred Bath in Kumbh Mela

Bathing in the holy river on the auspicious occasion of Kumbh Mela is the most important activity for millions of people in India. A large tented city is erected and pilgrims stay at tents owned by Pandas (religious and spiritual guides) and at various ashrams. Others will just camp on the ground or turn up for the actual bathing day. Some of these bathing days are designated "royal," and it is on these days that the naga sadhus (naked mendicants) parade and bathe. On other days there will still be people bathing and other events and random processions.

Rituals Performed at the Kumbh Mela

The main ritual performed at that Kumbh Mela is the ritual bath. Hindus believe that submerging themselves in the sacred waters on the most auspicious day of the new moon will absolve them and their ancestors of sin, thus ending the cycle of rebirth. Pilgrims start lining up to bathe from around 3 a.m. on this day.

As the sun comes up, the different groups of sadhus move in procession towards the river to bathe. The Nagas usually lead, while each group tries to outdo the others with more grandeur and fanfare. The moment is magical, and everyone is absorbed in it.

After bathing, the pilgrims wear fresh clothes and proceed to worship by the river bank. They then walk around listening to discourses from the various sadhus.

  

Best Indian Wedding Songs of Bollywood

Bollywood-inspired shaadis are evergreen favourites of all Indians. Wherever there is an Indian wedding, Bollywood songs are added to it automatically. However, here is a classic example of how a wrong song at a right time can spoil the whole occasion.

I recently attended a wedding and during theJaimaala when the groom was just about to put the garland around bride’s neck, the "overactive" D.J. played this Punjabi song- Lak 28 kudi da, 47 weight kudi da. Now, the moment that is supposed to be very special, suddenly turned really funny and bizarre.

So, to avoid such blunders, a list of songs for all occasions should be made beforehand and given to the DJ. Here, to help you with this task, we have prepared a complete list of evergreen and must-have wedding songs, which Bollywood has conjured since decades.

These songs are perfect to make you fall in love with every moment and every ceremony that goes into making a beautiful traditional Indian wedding.

Top Bollywood Mehendi Songs

1. Mehendi Lagaungi Mai Sajna Ke Naam Ki (You can’t go wrong on this one! Superb beats!)
2. Mehendi Ni Mehendi (Sung by Harshdeep Kaur)
3. Mehndi Hai Rachne Valli (Film- Zubeida)
4. Mehendi Ki Raat Aayi (Album- Jaana Hai Bollywood)
5. Mehendi Mehendi (Film- Chori Chori Chupke Chupke)
6. Mehendi Laga Ke Rakhna (Film- Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge)
7. Mehendi Se Likh Gori Hath Par Mere (Film- Balmaa)
8. Mehendi Rang Laayi (Film- Chal Mere Bhai)

Top Indian Wedding Sangeet Songs

1. Asan Hun Tur Jana (you can’t help getting a tear in eye looking at your sister/daughter dancing to this one. Film- Arpan)
2. Banno Rani (Film- 1947 Earth)
3. Bumro Bumro (Film- Mission Kashmir)
4. Mere Hathon Mai Nau Nau Choodiyan Hain (Film- Chandni)
5. Mai Sasural Nahi Jaungi Doli Rakh Do (another Yashraj classic wedding song from the film Chandni)

6. Rukmani Rukmani (Film- Roja. It is a naughty teaser for Bride)
7. Yeh Galiya Yeh Chaubara (a heart touching song. Film- Prem Rog)
8. Sajan Sajan Teri Dulhan (Film- Aarzoo)
9. Bole Chudiyaan (Film- Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham)
10. Navrai Majhi (Film- English Vinglish)
11. Mahi Ve (Film- Kal Ho Na Ho)
12. Gal Meethi Meethi Bol (Film- Aisha)
13. Sasuraal Genda Phool (Film- Delhi 6)
14. Kajra Mohabbat Wala (Film- Tanu Weds Manu)
15. London Thumakda (Film- Queen)

Romantic Dance Songs for the Couple

Nowadays, many couples put up a special performance on their sangeet or engagement ceremony, along with their family and friends. Well, here is a list of some super-romantic tracks for them.

1. Tum Se Hi (Film- Jab We Met)
2. Khuda Jaane (Film- Bachna Ae Haseeno)
3. Pehli Nazar (Film- Race)
4. Main Waari Jaavan (Film- Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya)
5. O Re Piya (Film- Aaja Nachle)

Best Baaraat Entrance Songs

1. Le Jayenge Le Jayenge Dilwale Dulhaniya (Film- Chor Machaye Shor)
2. Heeriye Sehraa Bandh Ke Mai Aaya Re... Tenu leke (Film- Salaame-Ishq)
3. Mujhse Shaadi Karogi (Film- Mujhse Shaadi Karogi)
4. Saajan Ji Ghar Aaye (Film- Kuchh Kuchh Hota Hai)
5. Dulhan Toh Jayegi Dulhe Raja Ke Saath (Film- Dulhe Raja)
6. Aaye Hum Baarati (Film- Jigar)
7. Mera Piya Ghar Ayaa- (Film- Tezaab)
8. Chote Chote Bhaiyon Ke (This song is best for groom's tilak. Film- Hum Saath Saath Hain)
9. Tere Dware Pe Aai Baraat (Film- Vivah)

Best Songs for Indian Bride's Entrance

1. Din Shagna Da Aaya Ni Aao Sakhiyon (Beautiful song which is played when Bride enters the wedding mandap. Film- Dillagi)
2. Dulhe Ka Sehra Suhana Lagta Hai (Film- Dhadkan)
3. Sab Ki Baaratein Aayi (Film- Janam Samjha Karo)
4. Dil Laga Liya (Film- Dil Hain Tumahara)
5. Saat Phero Ke Saato Vachan (Film- Bhool na Jana)
6. Teri Ore (Film- Singh is Kinng)
7. Paalki Mein Hoge Saawar Chali Re (This song is perfect for fun brides. Film- Hero)

Best Jaimala Songs

1. Taare Hain Baraati (Film- Virasat)
2. Wah Wah Ram Ji (Film- Hum Aapke hain Koun)
3. Dulhan Hum Le Jayenge (Film- Dulhan Hum Le Jayenge)

Romantic Wedding Songs for the Couple

1. Kinna Sohna Tenu Rab Ne Banaya (Singer: Nusrat Fateh ali Khan)
2. Aaye Ho Meri Zindagi Mai Tum Bahar Banker (Film- Raja Hindustani)
3. Balle Balle (Film- Bride and Prejudice)
4. Aap Ki Nazron Ne Samjha (Film- Anpadh)
5. Gur Naal Ishq Se Mitha (Singer: Bally Sagoo)
6. Sapne Mai Milti Hain (Film- Satya)

Teasing Songs in Wedding (Adding to the ched-chad atmosphere of the wedding!)

1. Maiya Yashoda Ye Tera Kanhaiya (Film- Hum Saath Saath Hain)
2. Ek Kunwara Phir Gaya Maara (Film- Masti)
3. Kalli Teri Choti (Film- Bahaar Aane Tak)
4. Baari Barsi (Film- Band Baaja Baaraat)
5. Aayo Re Aayo Re Aayo Re Maro Dholna (Album- Pyar ke Geet)
6. Kala Shah Kala (Singer: Anamika)
7. Mere Yaar Ki Shaadi Hai (Film- Mere Yaar Ki Shaadi Hai)
8. Mai Ne Mai (Film- Hum Aapke Hain Koun)
9. Didi Tera Dewar Deewana (Film- Hum Aapke Hain Koun)
10. O Mummy Daddy (Film- Deewana Mastana)
11. Dil Da Mamla Hai dilbar... Mast Kalandar (Film- Heyy Babyy)
12. Radha (Film- Student of the Year)

Best Bollywood Vidaai Songs

Most soulful songs for the time when bride says goodbye to her family, her home, her friends. Leaving everything behind, she is entering a new phase in her life.

 

 

1. Sada Chidiyan Da Chamba Ve (Film- Kabhi Kabhie)
2. Babul Jo Tumne Sikhaya (Film- Hum Aapke Hain Koun)
3. Ye Betiyan Toh Babul ki Raaniya Hai (Film- Na Tum Jano Na Hum)
4. Baba Ki Rani Hoon (Film- Aapko Pehle Bhi Kahin Dekha Hai)
5. Babul Ki Duaayein Leti Ja (Film- Neel Kamal- right from lyrics to music, this song is a classic vidaai number in all the aspects)
6. Babul Ka Yeh Ghar Gori Kuch Din (Film- Daata. Listen to it and you will know why it is here!)

1000 Pillar Temple - Moodabidri

Thousand Pillar Temple, Moodabidri in Tulunad Region of Karnataka

Moodabidri is a center for Jainism and is calledJain Kashi. A quiet town, 35 km from Mangalore houses 18 Jain temples or basadis.Most prominent among these is the Thousand Pillar Temple (also called Saavira Kamabada Basadi and Tribhuvana Tilaka Chudamani Basadi), situated at the center of the town. Established in 1430, this temple is an architectural wonder. The temple is dedicated to 8th theerthankara of Jains, Chandranatha.Panchaloha(made up of 5 metals) statue of Chandranatha is worshipped here by the

Pillars of the temple contain some fine carvings. Episodes from the life of Jaintheerthankaras, Lord Krishna, Lord Shri Rama are the subject of most of the carvings. Moodabidri was also an important trading center during 15th century. Figures of giraffe and dragon carved in the temple, provide ample proofs for that and indicate ties with Africa and China. Ceilings of the temple also have some beautiful carvings. Also, one can see stone inscriptions in Halegannada (old form of Kannada). In front of the temple, there ismaana sthambha which is a monolithic pillar and dhvaja sthambha, seen also in Hindu temples. Roofs of the temple which are red in colour, reminded me those of the Buddhist monasteries.

The temple is inside a fort like structure built at that time. View from the fort walls gives you the full picture of the famous temple, as you would have seen in tourist guides. The temple does not come under any Government organization and is managed by a Jain trust. They do not even charge entrance fees for the visitors. So, when I enquired about taking photographs of the place, I was asked to pay Rs.100/- as donation to the trust. One of the guides there, explained me about the history of the temple and the important carvings like Shri Rama pattabhisheka, figure of dragon and carvings made on giant doors of the temple.

Basadis apart, Moodabidri is now famous for national level cultural festival, Alva's Viraasat, held every year. This music and dance festival brings together the best of artists from all over India. Moodabidri is also close to other tourist destinations like Karkala (another center for Jainism, 18km), Dharmasthala (Hindu pilgrimage center, 50km) and Udupi(50km).

With its serene surroundings and charming presence of the Thousand Pillar Temple, town of Moodabidri beckoned me for a second visit to the place

Puttari - The Kodava Naadh Festival

Puttari – Poli Poli Deva

Yellark puttari nammera nallame baidovi poli poli ba poli poli igguthappa kaveramme  thai nallad madadu jai kodava nadh

“Puttari” means the harvest festival or rather the rice harvest festival which this community celebrates annually. Along with the other two festivals, namely the Kalipodhu and Kaveri Sankramana, Puttari is an exuberant time for the Kodavas as it brings the entire family and community together. As much of Kodagu is used for agriculture, this particular fiesta is of great importance.

Banana leaves, green mango and colourful flowers are used to decorate the house and the lane leading to the field. The ‘sickle’ plays a crucial role during this festival. Assembling at the ‘Aine mane’ (the Kodava ancestral home), the oldest member of the family hands the sickle to the head of the family and along with a women who carries a lamp in her hand, leads the entire procession. Singing the song ‘Polipoli deva’ the harvesting of rice begins as the gun shot is fired and the stacks of rice are then bundled up which are then offered to the almighty.

Puttari is Here!

This entire process is highly symbolic and ritualistic. Added to this, firecrackers are lit, gifts are exchanged and delicious lip-smacking authentic Kodava dishes are made, making this festival a joyous one. However the festivities don’t end here. What follows is the communal dinner with the money collected a week later. Pork curry, polipoli, tambattu and fish curry are some of the dishes prepared to make this dinner a lavish and sumptuous feast.

Kodavas don’t celebrate their festivals in a sober manner; proud of their culture and heritage, they don’t step back when it comes to rejoicing in a gregarious manner. If there’s something one should really look forward on seeing in Coorg, it is their manner of celebration. It will leave you stunned.

Kodava nadhra janakh Puthari nammera nallame.

Happy Puttari Festival to all .