23 minute read
Re-plan your travels
How does COVID-19 fit into your travel plans?
Are you gearing up to get away for a vacation? As many people are planning for spring break travel and summer vacations, just see how does COVID-19 fit into your plans? Must skip the following countries from your travel list as their travelling protocols changed amid a surge in the cases again.
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Israel
Israel is one of the countries reporting an increase in COVID cases. According to reports, more than 14,000 new cases are reported on a daily basis, which is one of the reasons why the country has decided to postpone relaxing travel rules.
Greece
Despite the fact that Greece has opened its borders to travel, all arrivals must produce a negative RT-PCR test report that is no more than 72 hours old or an antigen test report was taken within 48 hours of arrival. According to reports, the country reports more than 20000 new infections per day on average. France Vaccinated travellers are no longer required to be tested before departure, and their proof of full vaccination expedites their entry into France, regardless of their country of origin. Those who have not been immunised, however, must still provide negative test results in order to enter the country. France is also experiencing an increase in hospitalisations, with more than 20,000 cases reported per day on average.
United Kingdom
Following a positive COVID test, the UK relaxed all COVID-related restrictions and waived the requirement for self-isolation. The country now reports an average of 70,000 new infections per day, according to reports. Italy Throughout all COVID waves, Italy has been one of the world’s most severely affected countries. According to the most recent news reports, daily COVID cases in the country are on the rise again, with an average of around 70,000 cases per day. Indoors, one must maintain social distance and wear a mask.
David Beckham talks about the FIFA World Cup™
The England legend says he thinks football fans will enjoy what Qatar has to offer
David Beckham cannot wait for the first FIFA World Cup™ in the Middle East and Arab world. The Football legend, 46, has played and scored in three World Cups, and has witnessed Qatar’s preparations for the 22nd edition of international football’s showpiece event. Beckham looks forward to the final draw, which will take place in Doha on 1 April, and gives a keen assessment of England’s chances heading into the tournament, outlining what fans can expect when they travel to Qatar in November and December. The final draw for Qatar 2022 takes place this week. How exciting is this milestone for players and fans? Beckham: It’s a really big moment and something you always look forward to as a player and fan. It’s exciting for players as you get to know who you’re coming up against and who you have to prepare for. It’s a moment for players and fans to realise that the World Cup is almost here and for the excitement to begin to build. This is the first FIFA World Cup™ in the Middle East and Arab world. How important is that? Beckham: It’s a massive moment for everyone in Qatar and very inspiring. I’ve always talked about the legacy of the World Cup for Qatar – but also the legacy of the World Cup everywhere. That’s what the World Cup brings to a nation – it’s an inspiring moment. For Qatar, it’s a chance to show off the country and its love of football, its history and culture. Having some of the biggest players in the sport descend on Qatar is a huge moment for the country and region. It’s going to be a compact World Cup, with all the stadiums near to one another. How will this benefit the players? Beckham: It’s a huge benefit. The furthest a team is going to have to travel is 40-45 minutes on a bus. In the World Cups I played in, it could take two or three days to recover from the game and the travelling. The tournament will take place in November and December. For many countries, it will mean the World Cup takes place in the middle of the football season. What kind of benefits will that have? Beckham: As an England player, we went into every World Cup after a gruelling season in the Premier League, which is one of the toughest leagues in the world. When you come to the end of the season, you’re exhausted and it takes a while to recover – more than a few weeks. This time, it will be mid-season, so this is perfect for English players – and other teams – who can go into the tournament with a real opportunity. With many players coming in fresh, are you expecting a better standard of play during this World Cup? Beckham: Without a doubt. You always expect a high standard during the World Cup – but coming in mid-season, the standards are going to be even higher. The weather is going to be perfect, the stadiums are amazing, the facilities are amazing, the fans are going to have a great time. It’s set up perfectly. What are your expectations for England heading into this tournament? Beckham: My expectations for England are always high. Ours fans will have high expectations – and rightly so. I feel Gareth [Southgate] has done an incredible job. We’ve got a team that’s been together for quite a few years. You can’t really call them a young team anymore – but many of the players are pretty young, while they also have experience in there with the likes of Harry Kane. I feel this is a real opportunity for us. We’re coming into the tournament in good form. We just have to keep that up. Who is England’s key player? Beckham: I would have to say Harry Kane. He’s a leader, he’s our captain and he’s our goal scorer. With him performing at the highest level, he’s massively important to our team. England will be one of the favourites to win the tournament – but who will be their main rivals? Beckham: When you think about the World Cup you automatically talk about Brazil, Argentina and France. They are all great nations who have won many tournaments. Another country I am excited to see play is Denmark. I think they could be the surprise package. They’ve had a good lead-up and always do pretty well in major tournaments. I’m also looking forward to seeing the host nation, Qatar. They have a young team who have been together a long time. They know each other well and I think they’ll be boosted by the atmosphere in the stadiums. What advice would you give to players playing in their first World Cup? Beckham: Enjoy it. The World Cup is the pinnacle. It’s the best and highest level any player can reach. My advice is to enjoy it because it might be the only one you’re involved in. You’ve visited many stadiums here – when you walk out on the pitch, how much do you wish you were still playing? Beckham: I’m 46 years old but I still feel I can put my boots on and play in a World Cup. Even at my age – which is not old – I still feel I could play in the Premier League or La Liga or for England. When I walk into a stadium I always want to put my boots on. What’s your message to the fans heading to Qatar for the World Cup? Beckham: They’re going to have a great experience. In the past, fans have had to travel between games but in Qatar, they’re going to be able to go to more than one match a day because it is such a compact tournament. I think the fans will enjoy what Qatar has to offer. There will be great food, a warm welcome from the local people and lots to see and enjoy besides the football.
5 reasons to choose Seychelles for the summer
Seychelles is an exclusive holiday destination with a very small population,
Summer is synonymous with beach fun, and Seychelles is every beach lover's dream vacation destination. Summer activities for visitors include lounging on pristine beaches, participating in outdoor adventures such as hikes and treks, island excursions, and sailing. Travellers who would rather avoid the sun than bask in it can indulge in world-class wellness at spas and luxurious hotels that provide relaxation with a breathtaking view.
La_Digue_Source_d'Argent Here are 5 reasons why Seychelles is the ideal summer getaway:
Pure shores
The beaches of Seychelles draw visitors from all over the world. Whether seeking lively or secluded beaches, long never-ending stretches of sand or tiny half-moon patches fringed by trademark boulders, visitors are sure to find their signature style of beach. Did you know that the typical summer vacation months in India, April and May, coincide with one of the best times to visit Seychelles? Travelers can expect especially calm waters at this point.
Island hopping
Seychelles is a 115-island archipelago. Even on a long vacation, you will struggle to cover all of them. Excursions by boat can introduce you to the refreshingly unique landscape that can be found on various islands. Seychelles has something for everyone, whether you want to wander through bustling markets, take enviable photos around colonial-style mansions, or explore coastal mangrove forests and unspoiled nature reserves. Nature lovers will thrive in this reincarnated Eden, which is home to over fifty endemic
Sailing in Seychelles
A mild dose of adrenaline
People all over the world have rediscovered their love of the great outdoors in the last two years, and there is no better place to get your fix. Take a leisurely stroll along a nature trail or put yourself to the test by ascending a steep mountain path. Indulge in bird-watching or simply enjoy the sensation of life slowing down as you take a deep breath in nature's lap.
Weather Window
Some visitors enjoy the overall summer vibe, the vibrant colours that everything takes on in the brilliant sunlight, and, of course, the fact that children are off from school, but would rather enjoy a pristine beach from the comfort of a restaurant, spa, yacht, or hotel room with a view. Spend the day relaxing in your luxurious hotel room, which offers 360-degree views of azure waters and powder-white beaches lined with palm trees. Step outside to savour sumptuous Creole cuisine. On a sheltered boat ride, you can get a dose of both vitamin sea and adrenaline. Relax in a relaxing spa session and let your stress melt away. Whatever you do, ocean views are almost always present.
Sunset over granite Anse Source d’Argent, La Digue
Wide, open spaces
The last two years have made everyone more conscious of their personal space than ever before. Seychelles is an exclusive holiday destination with a very small population, allowing visitors to enjoy just the right level of seclusion and ease.
Shillong, known as the “Scotland of the East,” is home to several scenic waterfalls and has been named one of the best waterfall destinations
Taking a vacation is the ultimate way to feel good, with 85 percent of Indian travellers stating that their motivation for travelling is to improve their mood. Travel can lift spirits and boost happiness levels for weeks after returning home. Booking.com has chosen five of the top destinations with the best mood-boosting activities based on traveller reviews. From scuba diving in the Andamans to yoga on the beach in Varkala, adventure sports to wellness therapies and delectable food, include a mood-boosting activity in your next vacation to make it the most joyful yet.
Outdoor activities in Neil Island
Neil Island is a perfect gem of the Andaman Islands, blessed with magnificent biodiversity, unexplored coral reefs, white sandy beaches, and tropical woodlands. Officially known as 'Shaheed Dweep,' it is one of the platforms travellers' top-recommended outdoor activity destinations. It's the ideal place to find happiness, with activities ranging from surfing to scuba diving and paddleboarding. Explore the easy cycling trails immersed in nature inland, or head to the beach to sunbathe, read, or simply lie down.
Wellness in Auroville, Tamil Nadu
Auroville is a quiet town in Tamil Nadu that is an experimental township. It's well-known for hosting weekly workshops, therapies, and community yoga, making it the ideal vacation for rest and relaxation – and one of the top destinations for wellness according to Booking. com travellers, which is a key factor in feeling content. Visitors can de-stress and relax in its wet and dry tropical climate, as well as take walks on its open roads to instill inner peace. The township's community is very close-knit, and the atmosphere is very welcoming. Matrimandir is a secular gathering place in town where people can meditate and experience tranquillity in peaceful silence. This lovely town has become synonymous with community healing and is a haven for those seeking inner peace.
Yoga in Varkala, Kerala
Varkala, a coastal town in southern Kerala, is a hipster's paradise, with palm-covered red cliffs, pristine golden beaches, and pilgrimage sites. Varkala is more of a state of mind than a location, but it is one of the top recommended yoga destinations on the travel site, according to travellers. Head to Papanasam Beach, ten kilometres from Varkala, where visitors can enjoy sunset sun salutations by a natural spring, or sunrise for early risers. Whether you practise Vinyasa or Bikram, a yogi novice or a yogi master will find a relaxing retreat.
Waterfalls in Shillong, Meghalaya
Shillong, known as the "Scotland of the East," is home to several scenic waterfalls and has been named one of the best waterfall destinations by the platforms travellers. Meghalaya has 16 major waterfalls, one of which, Nohkalikai Falls, at 1,115 feet, is said to be India's tallest plunge waterfall. This waterfall is fed by rainwater that collects on the top, making the once-in-a-lifetime sound of water plunging to the earth difficult to forget. The city is also notable for its towering pine conifers, pineapple shrubs, and undulating terrain. Along with the breathtaking waterfalls, visitors can stroll through Mawlynnong, Asia's cleanest village known for its wood carvings and traditional craftsmanship.
Nature in Munnar, Kerala
Munnar, located 1,600 metres above sea level and a few hours from Alleppey, is one of Kerala's most scenic areas. With its vast tea plantations, beautiful cottages, and vibrant hiking trails, it's no surprise that the city is one of the top destinations for nature walks. Few people visit the lush green mountains, eat authentic food, or indulge in an ayurvedic spa while still embracing the sheer
By Paddy Krishnan
Virochana was the son of Prahalad and hence an Asura. Although he was an Asura, his behaviour was not demonic. He was kind to people and also took care of the earth. In the story of Prithu, who saved the earth from over-exploitation (see the https://goldcoasthindu. wordpress.com/2019/08/17/ environmental-issues-are-people-following-scriptures/ for details), the earth is depicted as a cow and Virochana is depicted as a calf. The message is that the calf takes only what it needs from the cow. The calf does not exploit the cow by overconsuming the milk that could result in the cow’s death. Prithu tells the people that they need to behave like Virochana in taking only what is needed. Virochana was also a worshipper of Vishnu and earned great merit by taking care of temples to Vishnu. Virochana did penance to Surya, and was blessed by Surya with a crown that had special powers. As long as Virochana was wearing the crown, no one could kill him. Overall, Virochana was a good spiritual and religious person. * But there are many stories that show him in poor light. These stories are used to justify why he was killed. I will summarise some of these stories and raise some questions related to the way Virochana is portrayed. * The first story is that Virochana, as a great devotee of Vishnu, wanted all temple offerings to be made to Vishnu. This resulted in the people not performing Vedic yagnas. Because of this, the Devas were deprived of offerings and could not enjoy material benefits. Hence, Indra, Varuna and Surya plotted to kill Virochana. Once when Virochana was travelling, Surya increased his brightness. Virochana, who felt thirsty because of Surya’s heat, stopped at a hut where Indra and Varuna were in disguise. Indra and Varuna asked Virochana to wait while they fetched some water. They waited till Virochana fainted when they removed his crown and killed him. Indra and Varuna were worried that Shukracharya could use Virochana’s dead body to bring him back to life. So they cremated Virochana’s body. Because of this, Mahabali, Virochana’s son, could not perform the Vedic rituals for his dead father. This is the main reason why Mahabali hated the Devas. * The second story tells that when Virochana got his special crown from Surya, he became conceited. Hence Vishnu decided to kill him. Vishnu took the form of a woman who enticed him and took away the crown. Virochana could now be killed by Vishnu. A variant of this story is that Vishnu changed Virochana’s wife to become a crazy person. This made Virochana weak and Vishnu was able to kill him. * The third story is from the Matsya Purana. Brihaspati, was the guru of all the Devas. His wife was kidnapped by Chandra (the moon god). Despite Brihaspati’s pleas, Chandra refused to return Tara. So Brihaspati declared war on Chandra. All the Devas were against Chandra. Since Shukracharya did not like Brihaspati, he fought on Chandra’s side. Hence Prahalad and Virochana also fought on Chandra’s side. During this battle Indra killed Virochana. This killing is not based on any bad thing Virochana did -- he was just a casualty of war. The killing of Virochana also appears in the story of the Samudramanthan (see https://goldcoasthindu.wordpress.com/2021/04/10/lessonsfrom-the-samudra-manthan/ for details). Because the Asuras were deprived of the nectar, they fought with the Devas. Virochana died as part of this war. * The final story I present here is from the Chandogya Upanishad. Both Indra and Virochana go to learn about the Atman. After a few years, their guru tells them that the reflection they see of themselves in the pond is the Atman. Virochana accepts this at face-value. Virochana thus believes that the body represents the Atman. He taught this to his followers. Indra, on the other hand, questions his guru and concludes that the body cannot be the Atman. The Upanishad concludes that Virochana had to be killed because he taught incorrect knowledge.
Now I present a few general questions.
Why was Virochana, who had an exalted position in the story of Prithu, demoted in other writings? Is this purely because he was an asura? It is interesting to observe that the Matsya Purana does not view Virochana in a negative light. His death had nothing to do with any improper behaviour. * Why is it okay for the Devas to plot to kill Virochana just because he advocated praying to Vishnu? If Virochana was such a devotee of Vishnu, why did Vishnu not protect him from Indra and Varuna? Why is Vishnu partial to the Devas? * Why was Mahabali at fault for hating the Devas when his father was killed by them? Indra is often shown behaving like an entitled feudal lord. * These days very few people perform Vedic yagnas and more people make offerings to non-Vedic deities. Does this mean that all the current devotees of Vishnu, Shiva etc. are in danger from the Vedic Gods? * Were the Devas, who were annoyed at Vedic rituals not being followed, right in preventing Mahabali perform the last-rites for his father? Is the performance of the last-rites (Antyasti) not demanded by the Vedas? * How did making Virochana’s wife crazy, enable Vishnu to kill him? * If Surya was pleased with Virochana’s penance, why did he join forces with Indra and Varuna to kill Virochana? As per the story, Virochana had done nothing wrong. Was this Surya’s way to undo the act of giving a great boon to Virochana? * Why should someone who has not understood deep philosophy be killed? Was it because he decided to teach his incomplete and incorrect understanding? The Upanishads admit that understanding the true nature of the Atman is not easy? Is it not better to educate them? Did Virochana’s guru fail him by letting him go with incorrect knowledge? Is the lack of correct knowledge just an excuse to kill an asura to protect the Devas? I suspect these questions do not have real answers as the aim is to show Virochana in poor light, and thereby, justify his killing. References: S. Radhakrishnan: The Principal Upanishads, 2016 V. Mani: Puranic Encyclopedia, 2021 The Sacred Book of the Hindus, Volume 17, Part I (Edited by B. D. Basu) Paddy Krishnan is a computer scientist, who got his BTech degree from IIT-Kanpur and PhD from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Being very interested in Hindu philosophy, he maintains a blog at www.goldcoasthindu.wordpress com
Gerukatte Gangayya shetty as Virochana
In post-Covid ‘Navratri’, teens take to spirituality
Lucknow, April 4: More and more youngsters are turning spiritual and observing the nine-day fast during the ongoing Navratri. Temple priests claim that the number of youths -both boys and girls- visiting temples this year is much more than older citizens. “The priest at the Maa Lalita Devi temple, Raghuraj Mishra, said: “It is surprising for me to see teenagers queuing up for ‘darshan’ this Navratri. Almost all of them are observing the fast too.” Reyansh Mathur, 18, a regular visitor to the temple, said: “This is the first time that I am fasting for nine days and visiting the temple regularly. My younger sister, who is 16 years old, and my three cousins are also fasting.” Asked what made him turn spiritual at this age, Reyansh said: “The pandemic made me realise the futility of life. I lost three close family members last year and we could not save them despite having financial resources. This year I decided to fast and even though it has been just two days, I am already feeling a sense of peace within.” Interestingly, none of the other members in his family are fasting. “My parents are diabetic and my grandparents are too old so, this time, is me and my siblings who are fasting,” he added. The Hanuman temple in Hazratganj also has a long queue of young boys and girls, lining up to offer prayers during Navratri. “For me God is one - whether it is Hanuman or Durga or Shiva. I am coming here regularly since Navratri began on Saturday because it gives me a good feeling,” said Pooja Sinha, a young bank executive. Revati Roychaudhuri, who runs a working women’s hostel in her home in Mahanagar, said: “Surprisingly, there has been a spurt in the number of girls fasting during Navratri. In fact, I have completely switched to ‘falahar’ menu because of the 17 girls, only two are not fasting.” Most of the teenagers who are fasting in Navratri still cannot remember and recite the shlokas. Almost all of them have downloaded the shlokas and aartis in their mobiles and use it for puja. Mahant Divyagiri of Mankameshwar temple said that it was a good sign that young generation were becoming increasingly spiritual. “The pandemic is slowly taking us back to our roots and this is a healthy sign for tomorrow,” she stated.
India marching ahead towards Ramrajya, TN Guv
Chennai, April 2: Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi has said that India is marching ahead towards the goal of Ramrajya envisioned by Mahatma Gandhi under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He was delivering the inaugural address of the 69th Ram Navami celebrations in Chennai organised by Sri Ram Samaj and described Sri Ram as an icon of India’s shared cultural spirituality. The Tamil Nadu Governor said that lessons from the life of Sri Ram are ideal values for all to imbibe. R.N. Ravi said that Mahatma Gandhi invoked the idea of Ramrajya to unite the country against colonial rule and said that as an ideal son, brother, friend, and king, Sri Ram teaches us the value of mutual love and respect. Sri Ram Samaj president S. Ravichandran and others participated in the function.
Rahul sends ‘puja samagri’ for Amethi temples
Amethi (UP), April 6 (IANS) Former Congress president Rahul Gandhi has sent ‘puja samagri’ (worship material) for the Devi temples in Amethi on the occasion of Navratri. Amethi is the former constituency of Rahul Gandhi which he lost to Smriti Irani of BJP in 2019. Congress MLC, Deepak Singh confirmed that on the occasion of Chaitra Navratri, Rahul Gandhi has sent worship material for the temples of Goddesses in the district. He said that Amethi district Congress chief Pradeep Singhal, district media in-charge Anil Singh would monitor the proper distribution of the material among the temples and party leaders will regularly participate in the worship of the goddesses. The prominent temples where materials have been supplied include Maa Kalika Bhavani Dham Sangrampur, Maa Devi Patan Dham Amethi, Maa Durga Bhawani Dham Bhawan Shahpur Gauriganj, Budhan Mata Dham Gauriganj and Samsarian Dham. “This is a token of respect form Rahul Gandhi for Amethi and there is no politics in it,” said the Congress MLC. This is the first time that Rahul has sent puja samagri to Amethi that he represented in Lok Sabha for three terms. Bengaluru, April 7 (IANS) After campaigning against the hijab, halal and banning Muslim traders in temple fairs, Hindu organisations in Karnataka now are planning a campaign to ban Muslim mango traders and sculptors from making idols of Hindu Gods. The Hindu organisations have also prepared to challenge the issue of halal certification in the country in the court. These organisations are prepared to wage a legal battle questioning the system of halal certification against the Food Safety and Standards Association of India (FSSAI), the governing and monitoring body of food business in India. Sources said that the list of halal products was being prepared. The halal certification is illegal and the only authority to certify food is FSSI. The matter will be taken to the court about halal certification, sources said. Though the ruling BJP tried to distance itself from banning mango traders, it is maintaining silence on other issues. Opposition Congress and JD(S) are slamming the ruling BJP for these developments and AIMIM Chief Asaduddin Owaisi has stated that the Karnataka government was enforcing untouchability on Muslims. Melukote Cheluvanaraya Swamy temple Sthanik Srinivasan on Thursday said that he will take up a campaign across the state to ban Hindu idols being sculpted by Muslim sculptors. “The idols of Hindu gods sculpted by Muslim artistes can’t be installed in the Hindu temples, it is against the traditions. I will tour the state and bring awareness in this regard,” he
Muslim sculptors, mango traders face the heat of Hindu activists in K’taka
had stated. Sri Ram Sena has also extended the support to ban installing of idols in temples that are sculpted by Muslims and given a call for temple authorities not to get any idols made by the Muslim sculptors. Meanwhile, the campaign to ban Muslim traders in mango trade has gained momentum in the state. The Hindu activists are running an online campaign to take back the mango wholesale trade dominated by the Muslim businessmen. Chandru Moger, Hindu Janajagruthi Samiti coordinator appealled to Hindus to buy fruits from only Hindu vendors and boycott Muslim traders.
