Metro Mart_February 2020

Volume 8

Issue 11

FEBRUARY 2020

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Attukal Pongala The Largest Annual Gathering of Women

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nother edition of Metro Mart is with you. This time we have included ‘Aattukal Pongala’ at Thiruvananthapuram as the main theme of the magazine as the Pongala month of Kumbham has arrived to stage the world’s largest festival of women at the State capital.

The corona virus outbreak has triggered a worldwide panic. The epidemic has a significant adverse impact on the global tourism industry, with the pneumonialike disease caused by the virus, called Covid-19 already being felt across the Asian continent. Industry experts in India expect the long term effects of Corona virus by way of economic disruption to ripple well into 2021.

Reports indicate that the numbers of trip cancellations—not just to China but to the entire continent of Asia—is growing unabatedly. People are slightly confused as to whether they want to go anywhere right now. Significant dip in flights and hotel bookings for China, which is considered to be an important market for business travel are being experienced. China is a huge market, and given the prevailing scenario all trade conferences to the country are canceled. And, Chinese visitors scheduled to travel to India have canceled their visit, significantly

Foreword impacting the inbound operators and tour providers.

Along with China, Indians are apprehensive about traveling to other international destinations as well, as there is a lot of anxiety among the travelers regarding these destinations.

The silver lining of the present situation for the travel sector in India is the anticipation of more Indians choosing to travel within the country in order to compensate for their international travel plans. It is expected that India would gain some inbound tourism market due to complete shut-down of China and other important travel destinations in the Asian continent.

People who had planned to go to China and other Asian countries earlier are travelling within India or other destinations. As of now there are no reasons for any avoidance of places within India.

The forthcoming mega travel expo South India Travel Expo 2020 (SITE 2020) slated to be held at Thiruvanathapuram from May 7th to 10th assumes great significance in the emerging scenario.

SITE 2020 is expected to give a fillip to the domestic travel sector by encouraging movement of travel enthusiasts and tourists within the country.

Happy reading

Siji Nair

Managing Editor & Director

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Volume 8 - Issue 11 - February 2020

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February 2020

Contents Pongala 10 Attukal The Largest Annual Gathering of Women Kanivu 108:

16 Lives Matter!

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A District Blessed with an Array of Tourist Attractions

34 Secretariat @ 150 - Meen Pasta 42 Cuisine Moilee

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COVER STORY

Attukal Pongala The Largest Annual Gathering of Women

Beena Vijay

10 February 2020

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he annual ‘Pongala’ festival is celebrated with great fervor at the Attukal Bhagavathy temple popularly known as the ‘Sabarimala of Women’ at Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of the state of Kerala. Pongala, held on the ninth day of the ten-day-long festival, is the most important ritual of the temple. The Attukal Pongala is the largest congregation of women for a festival in the world.

Pongala, which means ‘to boil over’, is the ritual in which women prepare sweet payasam (a pudding made from rice, jaggery, coconut and plantains cooked together) and offer it to the Goddess or ‘Bhagavathy’.

‘Pongala’ is the most important festival of Attukal Bhagavathy Temple. The offering of Pongala is a very special temple practice in the southern parts of Kerala. The tenday- long celebration commences in the Malayalam month of MakaramKumbham (Feb - March) on the Karthika star. Pongala ceremony is on the auspicious day of Pooram star which coincides with full moon.

The festival commences with the musical rendering of the story of the Goddess (Kannaki Charitam) during the “Kappukettu ceremony”. The musical renderings are conducted by the families authorised for this purpose. The story invokes the presence of Kodungallur Bhagavathy and the slaying of the Pandyan King.

The song will continue for all the nine days preceding Pongala. The event of the Goddess annihilating

the Pandyan King is accompanied by much sound and fury of the temple drums and “Vaykurava” by devotees, immediately followed by the lighting of the hearths for the preparation of the offering for the Goddess.

This festival commemorates the victory of Good over Evil, by the slaying of Pandyan King. The Goddess Kannaki (Bhadrakali) is the main deity in Attukal temple. As per local legend, the Pongala festival commemorates the hospitality accorded by women in the locality to Kannaki, the divine incarnation of the heroine of the Tamil epic ‘Silappadhikaram’ while she was on her way to Kodungallur in central Kerala after destroying Madurai city to avenge the injustice done to her husband Kovilan.

Throughout the festival an atmosphere of celebration and festivity prevails and there are the solemn observances such as regular conduct of Bhajans, musical concerts, ballets depicting folk February 2020

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and temple arts etc. in the temple premises. This is symbolic of the philosophy that human and divine affairs are minutely inter-woven.

Processions of colourful floats of the deity from all around, carried with pomp and devotion by the devotees congregating in the temple premises provide a pleasing experience.

A Rare Charm of the Festival On the 9th day of the festival, it would appear as though all roads in and around Thiruvananthapuram city lead to the Attukal Temple. The entire area of about 10 km radius around the temple, with houses of people of all caste, creed and religion open fields, roads and commercial institutions emerges as a consecrated ground for observing Pongala ritual for the lakhs women 12 February 2020

devotees assembling from different parts of Kerala and outside.

This ceremony is exclusively confined to women folk. It is a delightful sight to see waves after waves of women of all age groups without caste, colour and creed surging into this area well in advance mostly carrying on their head materials such as firewood, earthern pots rice, jaggery, coconut etc. to mark out specific spots for the preparation of their offerings to the Goddess. The important ritual in the ‘Pongala’ is the preparation of rice or varieties of sweet rice using hearths and the earthern pots in the open. The signal for lighting -the hearth is given by the chief priest of the temple at a prefixed auspicious time followed by the humming of the temple at Thidappally . Lightining of hearth at

Thidappally is done by Melsanthi and at Panadara aduppu and Saha melsanthi.

The ceremony concludes with the sprinkling of holy water by temple priests at the appointed time in the evening accompanied by an aerial showering of flowers to the honour and glory of the Goddess Almighty.

The temple authorities make all necessary arrangements for the welfare of this huge congregation with the active participation of the voluntary agencies, local people, members of the festival committee and the various government departments. They ensure law and order in the area with the support of the police and the volunteers specially detailed for the purpose.

The enormous crowd which gathers here is reminiscent of the huge

gatherings of the Kumbha Mela festival of North India.

Kuthiyottam

Kuthiyottam is performed by boys with the hope that the Goddess almighty would be pleased to bestow on them beauty inward and outward, health, wealth and happiness. Boys below the age of 12years make the offering of Kuthiyottam. These young boys represent the wounded soldiers of the Goddess Mahishasura Marddini.

On the third day of the festival these young boys receive the prasadam (offering) from the temple priest and start a seven day penance to purify their body and mind. For the purpose they have to pass through rigorous physical and mental discipline such as sleeping in mat, February 2020

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observing strict diet restrictions, staying in the temple etc. Besides these, the boys have to undergo such disciplines like prostrating 1008 times before the deity after their morning and evening oblations.

Thalappoli

Thalappoli by girls is a popular ritual made on the Pongala day. A stream of young girls below 12 years dressed in traditional attire holding Thalappoli starts very early in the morning with the hope that the Goddess almighty would be pleased to bestow on them beauty inward and outward, health, wealth and happiness.

Vilakkukettu

‘Vilakkukettu’ as nercha(offering) reaches in Temple during night from 1st to 9th day of Pongala festival.

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One of the most spectacular sights of the festival is the vilakkukettu, in which beautifully decorated structures bearing idols and pictures of the Goddess are carried in the heads of the devotees, as they way to the temple from different parts of the city every night of festival accompanied by chendamelam music etc.

No sooner are the boys adorned for accompanying the Deity than the grand procession begins. The procession with illumination, floats and colourful festoons on either side of the road generate a gala atmosphere. This is made more attractive with various art forms like peacock dance, poykuthira dance, kolkali, theyyam, kumbhadance, display of other art forms which are followed by kuthiyottam,

panchavadyam. Lastly a sight to behold is, the magnificent procession of Attukal Bhagavathy on the caparisoned elephant displaying with Alavattom and Venchamaram under the resounding echo of occasional gun shots. Enroute it is a splendid sight to see the devotees who assemble on either side of the road welcoming the goddess in reverence with different kinds of offerings in salvers and “vaykurava”.

The procession starting from Attukal temple reaches the Sastha Temple at Manacaud in the small hours of the morning and after the necessary pooja ceremonies performed there, the entourage returns to Attukal.

Thereafter, the deity is received back in the sanctum with Deeparadhana.

Soon after the Deeparadhana, the ‘boys are delivered of the penance in an orderly manner. At night, rendering of devotional songs takes place which is followed by the ceremonial removal of the “Kappu”.

The ten day festival Culminates with the sacrificial offering known as

‘Kuruthi Tharpanam’ at night.

The ten days Aattukal Pongala festival gives a tremendous boost to Kerala’s economy in myriad ways. Several sectors are major beneficiaries of this festival. It is reported that the rooms of hotels of different types in Trivandrum get booked one year before the Pongala. Vendors of mud pots, vessels and other utensils used for Pongala make a good fortune during the festival. Several voluntary organizations provide soft drinks, light refreshments etc. to the Pongala pilgrims free of cost.

In 2009, Attukal Pongala made it to the Guinness Book of World Records for being the largest religious gathering of women on a single day when over 2.5 million people took part in it. The participation in Attukal Pongala has been increasing in an astonishing manner year after year. The annual event is organised by the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple Trust.

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GOVERNANCE

KANIVU 108:

LIVES MATTER! T he obnoxious event of road accidents is on a hike in our streets owing to a plethora of reasons. Saving lives in time from the misery levied upon by such unprecedented accidents has always been an uphill task. Instances where those who came to the rescue of accident victims being victimised also proved a hindrance to the lifesaving efforts, but No More!

interventions when a mishap occurs. Priorities have been set to make efficient efforts in rescuing and removing accident victims at the earliest from the accident site and reaching them to appropriate trauma management centres within the golden hour. Ensuring no loss of precious human lives on our roads has been derived as the aim of this new venture.

Kerala government, as part of the comprehensive trauma care and management system being put in place in government hospitals, has launched a new ambulance service network, Kanivu 108 across the State.

The new comprehensive trauma care and management scheme implemented by the government aims to focus on making timely

The Kanivu 108 initiative has, in its initial stage, identified 315 black spots, where an increased number of accidents occur and will make efforts to ensure services to these spots within minimal time as possible.

The programme has analysed the data from the state Crime Records Bureau spanning over the last 10 years and devised stringent

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measures for trauma care during the hours of 8 am to 8 pm, when accidents happen in high numbers.

The golden hour treatment package would ensure free care for accident victims for the first 48 critical hours.

The government was also equipping and strengthening its hospitals to become comprehensive trauma care centres and giving training to personnel in delivering proper trauma and emergency care even during the times of natural disasters or other unprecedented events.

The initiative will have under its hood of 315 Kanivu 108 ambulances and trained emergency care personnel in all districts. All the ambulances are equipped with a GPS mechanism to track the vehicles, which is helmed by a centralised call centre functioning from the Technopark, Thiruvananthapuram. The ambulance network will function under the Health Department and the service will be operated by the Telangana-based GVK Emergency

Management and Research Institute.

The Kerala State Medical Services Corporation will coordinate the service. The initiative also attempts to change the attitude of the state police force towards the Good Samaritans who make timely interventions to help accident victims.

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DOMESTIC TOURISM

A District Blessed with an Array of Tourist Attractions

Our Bureau

18 February 2020

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hiruvananthapuram is a perfect destination for visitors in India. The tourist places in the entire district of Thiruvanathapuram District have been delighting thousands of tourists from all over India and abroad. Long sandy beaches, enchanting hill stations, an array of historic monuments, thrilling backwaters, many places of worship, exciting wild life sanctuaries, sporty waterfalls and cultural centres have all placed Thiruvananthapuram on the top of India’s tourism map.

Let us have a brief look at the major tourist attractions in Thiruvananthapuram District.

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BEACHES Kovalam Beach With sun kissed shores, swaying coconut palms, serene environs, a quaint lighthouse and stunning sunsets, Kovalam stands as a paradise of aesthetic elegance and exotic beauty. An internationally renowned sea side destination in Thiruvananthapuram, Kovalam is truly astounding seashore fringed by coconut groves and flanked by highlands. Kovalam creates the perfect ambience for a holiday with the three adjacent crescent-shaped beachesLighthouse Beach, Eve’s Beach or Howah Beach and the Ashoka Beach, of which Lighthouse Beach is the most popular. The Eve’s Beach and the Lighthouse

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Beach are separated by a rocky headland called, Edakallu. A copious multitude of curio shops, restaurants that offer delicious sea foods, ayurvedic centres, luxurious resorts and accommodation options in all budgets can be seen on the beach side.

Since 1930, this has been a favourite tourist hangout. The lighthouse stands as a major attraction in Kovalam. This 35 m high historic treasure offers one a sweeping view from the top. Many water sports are also available in the beach.

Things to do in Kovalam beach include Sun bathing, Catamaran rides, Snorkeling, Herbal body toning massages, Lighthouse view, Water sports etc.

Poovar Beach With its azure sea, breezy shore and enticing atmosphere, this isolated yet spectacular beach of Poovar stands as an ideal tourist destination for those looking for leisure and rejuvenation. It is situated near the Neyyar River estuary. Away from the hubbubs of the city lies this unique picturesque spot with tranquil emerald backwaters and a beautiful calm lake. The main attraction of Poovar is the boating.

Vizhinjam Beach This fishing hamlet is a natural port which has been earmarked to become one of the largest ports of the region. Saagarika Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium located near the Theatre Junction holds a rich treasure of marine wealth. A rock cut temple that exhibit sculptures with an outer wall that depicts half-complete relics of the Lord Shiva with Goddess Parvathi is also a tourist attraction near Vizhinjam Beach.

Varkala Beach A popular sea side destination, Varkala, has an international reputation thanks to its picturesque red laterite cliff that rise majestically from its coastline.

With the blue cool sea and the sun-kissed shores, the beach creates a perfect ambience for playing in the surf and soaking up some sun. It is the only place in southern Kerala where cliffs are found adjacent to the Arabian Sea. Varkala is also a popular religious centre. For the believer, this beach popularly known by the name, Papanasam is a paradise that washes away all the sins.

Composed backwaters, natural mineral springs and isolated cloves make this place unique. Varkala has other tourist spots like the famous 2000-year-old Janardhana Swami Temple and Sivagiri Mutt, the final resting place of the social reformer, Sree Narayana Guru, atop a hill called Sivagiri. Varkala offers one with both adventure and tourism

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options such as like boat rides, horse rides, parasailing etc.

Varkala Tunnel is a popular tourist destination in Varkala. Sir T. Madhava Rao the Diwan of Travancore took 14 years to build this 924 ft long tunnel.

Ponnumthuruthu Island or the Golden Island is a celebrated tourist spot in Varkala. One can reach the island by taking a boat from Nedunganda. The lush island with an enchanting atmosphere is enriched with vibrant varieties of flora and fauna. The boat jetty at Nedunganda village from where the journey to Ponnumthuruthu starts itself is peculiar. It is a makeshift jetty and the walkway to the ferry is made up of coconut husk, mud and the waste from coir.

The Varkala cliff is a rare and unique geographical characteristic. These

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Cenozoic sedimentary formation cliffs are also known among geologists as Varkala Formation and a geological monument as declared by the Geological Survey of India.

A well maintained aquarium with exotic species including piranha, sea snakes, scorpion fish and the local karimeen is another tourist attraction.

Veli Beach A popular tourist spot in Thiruvananthapuram that lies sandwiched between the Arabian Sea and Veli Lake is Veli Beach.

Veli tourist village associated with the beach offers boating facilities.

A separate Children’s Park and Floating Cafe run by Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) are added incentives to visit this unique village.

HILL STATION

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quaint and pristine hill station relaxing in the laps of the mighty Western Ghats, located 915 m above sea level, this paradise welcomes you with its winding roads through the mist laden woods, and chilling climate. Along with the lush greenery, the cascade of waterfalls like shimmering pearls on an exuberant green backdrop makes this hill station a favourite of tourists. Ponmudi is also home to divergent species of flora and fauna.

The ever charming Kallar River and the gorgeous Meenmutty Waterfalls add to the beauty. Ponmudi offers you trekking and hiking options too.

Agasthyakoodam An enchanting green paradise that welcomes one with its deep lush woods and diverse wildlife, Agasthyakoodam is a part of the Western Ghats which stands majestically at a height of 1,890 m above sea level. With a wide variety of medicinal plants and herbs, even the air of this legendary mountain is supposed to have healing powers.

Being the second highest peak in Kerala, it provides you with excellent trekking options.

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HISTORIC MONUMENTS Napier Museum Splendid architecture with ethereal beauty, the Napier Museum situated right in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram stands as the main attraction of the capital city.

This Indo- Saracenic structure built in the 19th century holds a rich cultural heritage by housing a rare collection of archaeological and historic artifacts, ivory carvings, ancient coins, wooden ornamental box, bronze idols, a temple chariot and ancient ornaments. In the museum, epics of Mahabharata and Ramayana are depicted using Japanese Shadow play leather figures. The museum got its name from the Governor General of Madras, Mr. John Napier, who inaugurated the new building during the reign of the then monarch of erstwhile Travancore, Sri Uthradom Thirunal.

The Natural History Museum Natural History Museum, a modern structure, houses some excellent exhibits like the skeletal, bird, animal and taxidermy galleries.

Photography is not allowed in the museum.

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Kanakakunnu Palace A preserver of a bygone era, the Kanakakkunnu Palace merges cultural effulgence and human creativity. Built by Sri Moolam Thirunal to entertain guests of the royal family, this palace is currently under Kerala Tourism, and is used to hosts cultural events. Two auditoriums, Nishagandhi and Sooryakanthi are situated in the palace premises.

Kuthiramalika Palace Kuthiramalika, a magnificent palace built by the ruler Swathi Thirunal Rama Varma in 1840’sis located near the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple.

The name Kuthiramalika (horse mansion) is derived from the 122 horses that are carved into the wooden wall brackets. The palace, also known as Puthenmalika, is splendid with architectural excellence, intricate carvings and majestic pillars. Presently a portion of the palace stands as a Museum that showcases the artifacts of the royal family.

Koyikkal Palace The Koyikkal Palace is a doublestoreyed traditional Nalukettu built for Umayamma Rani of the Venad Royal Family at Nedumangad. It is famed for its architectural excellence.

Presently, this Palace with elongated inner courtyards and a huge pond, hosts a Folklore Museum and a Numismatics Museum with a rich antique collection. It is currently under the authority of the Department of Archaeology.

Kilimanoor Palace Kilimanoor Palace is the birthplace of the renowned Indian painter, Raja Ravi Varma. With a history spanning 300 years, this traditional structure in Nalukettu style with small and big sized buildings, temples and sacred groves is the seat of the Royal Travancore family. Constructed in

the traditional residential structures of Kerala similar to that of the Nalukettu, the Palace covers more than six hectares and also comprises small and medium-sized buildings, two ponds, wells and sacred groves (kaavu). The construction of some of the buildings is attributed to Raja Ravi Varma who is said to have built and maintained them from the proceeds of his paintings.

Vizhinjam Rock-cut Temple This is a cave temple in Vizhinjam with stone sculptures dating back to the 18th century. The cave with a one-celled shrine is made of granite which has the sculpture of Vinandhara Dakshinamurthi. Located to the south of Kovalam, the outer wall of this temple depicts halfcomplete relics of Lord Shiva and Parvathi.

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Anjengo Fort Situated near Anguthengu in Varkala, Anjengo Fort, established by the British East India Company in 1690, was the first signaling station for ships arriving from England. Being a place of scenic beauty along with historical significance, Anjengo is an ideal location for an evening walk. It still preserves the remnants of the old English Fort and has a cemetery which has the remains of the British family.

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BACKWATERS Veli Veli is a major tourist destination in Thiruvananthapuram that offers boating and other recreational activities. Being an incredibly stunning place with stretches of lush green landscapes, Veli lets you bask in the beauty of nature.

This tourist village on the outskirts of Thiruvananthapuram provides you with pedal boats and paddle boats to explore the charms of the backwaters. It is here that the Veli Lake merges with the Arabian Sea. A floating restaurant, and speed boats are the other main attractions of the Veli Tourist Village.

Akkulam The enchanting aura of the Akkulam backwaters offers an escape from the hassles of real life. Located at a distance of 10 km from Thiruvananthapuram this backwater with a nearby tourist village run by the DTPC, Thiruvananthapuram is a paradise for tourists. With boating facilities, a well equipped children’s park, and a paddle pool, children

flock to this place. Akkulam offers a swimming pool for adults too.

Anjengo Backwaters Anjengo backwaters is situated near Varkala and is a place of historical importance. The backwater stretch of Anjengo (Anchuthengu) is a mesmerising site where one can gel with nature’s beauty.

Poovar Backwaters Located around 30 km away from Thiruvananthapuram city, Poovar is a serene-secluded place that offers several recreational facilities to make your vacation splendid.

An enchanting backwater destination, Poovar offers visitors many leisure options. It is a lovely place to go for a picnic and has also turned into a prominent backwater destination. There are many boating, fishing and sightseeing options available in the area. Poovar Backwaters offers one a wonderful view of the formation of the beach and a large amount of exotic wildlife.

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PLACES OF WORSHIP

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple An ancient temple with a rich cultural and historical heritage, the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, devoted to Lord Vishnu is believed to be the world’s richest temple. Thiruvananthapuram got its name from the deity of this temple, Anantha Padmanabhan (Lord Vishnu). The deity reclines on a serpent with five-hoods. The temple exhibits a merge of Dravidian and Kerala architectural style along with a 100 feet high magnificent Gopuram. With an ancient history that dates back to the 8th century, it is one among the 108 sacred Vishnu temples in India. The temple is splendid with intricate artworks, exquisite mural painting, and sculptures.

Attukal Devi Temple Attukal Devi Temple is situated in a serene premise of fragrance filled breeze where faith, beliefs and divinity resides. The temple dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy 28 February 2020

is famous for the annual Pongala Festival, an offering to the Goddess.

The festival has found a place in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the largest annual gathering of women.

Vettukad Church A 500-year-old ‘Madre-de-Deus Church’ (meaning Mother of God

Church) located on the north-west coast of Thiruvananthapuram is a famous pilgrimage centre. Believed to have been established by St. Francis Xavier, the missionary who came to India to spread the gospel, this church enfolds a rich tradition, culture and custom. Scores of people visit this church irrespective of caste and creed. The church is famous for the annual “Feast of Christ the King” festival. This 10day festival ends in the last Sunday of the liturgical year.

Sivagiri Mutt Situated on a hillock, Sivagiri Mutt founded by the social reformer Sree Narayana Guru is a famous pilgrimage centre near Varkala.

Built in 1904, this place is the Samadhi or final resting place of the Guru. Sivagiri Mutt is also the headquarters of Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Sangham (SNDP), Guru’s organisation to

spread his ideas and thoughts.

Thousands in yellow attire flock towards Sivagiri for the annual pilgrimage which starts on December 30 and continue till January1.

Beemapalli Dargah Shareef This is a place famous for the mosque which houses the tomb of a pious Muslim woman Bee Umma, who is believed to have possessed divine powers. Beemapalli is well known for the annual 10day festival held in memory of Syedunnisa Beemabeevi and her son Syedushuhadamaheen Abubacker. The vibrant Chandanakkudam festival is part of this. During this festival, devotees make offering of coins in earthen pots smeared in sandal paste.

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WILDLIFE SANCTUARIES Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary An exceptionally beautiful dense wood splendid with enticing flora, fauna including Tiger, Leopard, and Asian Elephants, the Neyyar Wild life Sanctuary is located about 32 km from Thiruvananthapuram. This splendacious beauty on the mighty Western Ghats is a fascinating picnic spot that attracts tourists with the Neyyar River, along with a dam, and a Lake. Neyyar has breath-taking sceneries and a plethora of diverse wildlife. The picturesque dam site also has a watch tower, crocodile farm, a lion safari park and a deer park and boating facilities.

Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary Spanning across an area of 53 sq. km on the majestic lush Western Ghats, Peppara Wildlife sanctuary is a truly astounding fairyland of mystery with its dense wild forests, fabulous dam site and diverse flora and fauna. Located about

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50 km from Thiruvananthapuram, this wildlife sanctuary established in 1938 is a favourite haunt of wildlife enthusiasts. With its crystal clear streams, tree-topped green knolls and hillocks, and eucalyptus plantations the sanctuary lets one merge with its enticing beauty.

Apart from Sambar, Asian elephant, lion-tailed macaque, and leopard, rare birds like White-bellied Treepie, Malabar Grey, Small Sunbird, Hornbill etc can also be seen here.

Waterfalls Kalakkayam Waterfalls A realm of eternal beauty, Kalakkayam Waterfalls is situated amidst the lush woods near Idinjaar in Thiruvananthapuram. A walk through this picturesque forest rich with flora and fauna is an enchanting experience. This stunning cascade which is a part of the Mankayam stream has its origin in the Agasthyavanam forest. The pool at

the bottom of the waterfalls awaits you with cool water to vivify the soul.

One can reach Kalakkayam from Thiruvananthapuram via Palode.

Vazhavanthol Waterfalls Vazhavanthol welcomes one with its endless array of mesmerising scenery and the gurgling music of the stream. Located amidst Kannithadam forest near Vithura, this is an ideal location for adventure lovers. This secluded waterfall located amidst the woods offers one with options for trekking. Take each step with utmost care and attention as the upper falls is dangerous and the rocks are slippery. The pond at the base adds to the beauty of this destination.

Kurisadi Waterfalls This shower of pearls amidst the luxuriant blanket of greenery is formed by the streams of the Mankayam River. The Kurusadi Waterfalls allow one to merge with nature as we take a dip in the crystal

cool water. Mankayam is now a zone for eco-tourism, managed by the Kerala Forest Department.

Braemore Estate Waterfalls Relish the flow and fall of the sensuous waterfalls in the midst of the mystically beautiful Braemore Estate. It is a natural private waterfall.

Madam Waterfalls, Lower Kurisadi Waterfalls, and Anatheri Waterfalls are some of the other waterfalls near the estate. The estate established by the Europeans in 1800 is a dazzling paradise encircled by misty hills and sprawling green landscapes.

Meenmutty Waterfalls Located 45 km from Thiruvananthapuram, this idyllic destination with an enchanting aura bursts forth from the ever gorgeous Kallar River. Trek through the dense forest to reach this heavenly shower.

Enroute to the captivating waterfall one can see many birds, butterflies and diverse fauna. The Kombaikani Waterfalls is situated 2 km upstream of Meenmutty.

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CULTURAL CENTRES Vyloppilli Samskrithi Bhavan This is a multipurpose cultural complex under the Department of Culture, Government of Kerala, which functions as a research, documentation, performance and preservation centre for Kerala culture and art forms. Situated at Nalanda near Nanadancode this traditional building with peaceful environs and a beautiful landscape, preserves the personal belongings of the prominent Malayalam poet, Vyloppilli Sreedhara Menon.

Asan Smarakam Located at Thonnakkal, a small village in the outskirts of Thiruvananthapuram, Asan Smarakam is built in commemoration of the eminent Malayalam poet, Kumaran Asan.

The memorial holds a collection of the manuscripts of some of Asan’s

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poems and his awards. Along with the monument, the home in which Asan was born is also protected here. The memorial hosts many cultural events.

Spread over three acres of land is a beautiful garden containing rare medicinal plants maintained under the supervision of distinguished sculptor Kanayi Kunjiraman.

The Freedom Gate and the four sculptures being created by Kanayi are the major attractions in the garden.

Nishagandhi Auditorium Nishagandhi is a beautiful auditorium on the sprawling premises of the Kanakakkunnu Palace that hosts several cultural events. The stadium is known for the annual Nishagandhi Dance festival, held every year on Januray and Nishagandhi Monsoon Music Festival (July) that witnesses the

performance of eminent artists across India.

Margi Margi is an organisation which was created with the aim of preserving the unique classical art forms of Kerala. Started in the year 1970 by a theatre enthusiast, D. Appukuttan Nair, Margi conducts performances and classes to spread the knowledge of art forms like Koothu, Kutiyattam

and Kathakali. Margi follows the Gurukula manner of teaching (a system in which the student lives with the teacher).

CVN Kalari CVN Kalari is a renowned martial arts training centre in Thiruvananthapuram that stood as a pillar for the upliftment of Kalaripayattu, the traditional martial art form of Kerala from the verge of extinction. Established in 1956 under the initiative of C.V. Narayanan Nair, C.V. Balan Nair and Kottakkal Karunakara Gurukkal, CVN Kalari focuses on the mental, physical and spiritual development of a student.

The training starts at the age of 7.

Other than Kalaripayattu, CVN Kalari is famous for the specialised method of treatment called, Marma chikitsa.

A visit to the tourist spots in Thiruvanathapuram District is a very unique, unforgettable and refreshing experience.

(Courtesy : Thiruvananthapuram District Tourism Promotion Council)

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E

ver been to the abode of Kerala administration? Yes, the Secretariat building in the capital city is celebrating its sesquicentennial and it has a lot to tell. It has been a place of iconic political and social actions that was etched into the political history of Kerala.

The abode of Kerala’s administrative workforce, it was Ayilam Thirunal Maharaja of the erstwhile Travancore who laid the foundation stone on December 7, 1865, and inaugurated the building on July 8, 1869. The offices inside the building began to function on August 23. Several offices of the government came under one building when the Secretariat began to function. It was the engineer William Barton who designed drawing inspiration from the Roman-Dutch architectural style. The construction initially was started for the two-storey building at an estimated cost of Rs

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1,70,000. Upon completion of the construction around Rs 3 lakh was spent according to the government records available at the Secretariat library.

The history of the secretariat is also the history of Trivandrum.

The names of places Barton Hill or Chenkalchoola (now Rajaji Nagar) owe their names to the majestic seat of Kerala government. Barton Hill derived its name from the residence of chief engineer William Barton.

The building at the middle of the structure that holds the Darbar Hall was conceived by Barton. The Darbar Hall, at 70ft length, 40ft width, and 38ft high, is an architectural marvel to witness and the rest of the building were added later.

The soil to make red bricks for the construction of the Secretariat building was taken from the nearby place, giving the name Chenkalchoola. Chenkalchoola has a lot of inhabitants whose ancestors

took part in the construction of the Secretariat. A large number of people took part in the construction works. Occasional visits by the then Governor of Madras Francis Napier and the Kochi Maharaja, too to Travancore happened, to witness the ongoing construction. The use of steam engines for the construction works attracted lots of common people who went to witness the work in awe.

The then Diwan of Travancore T Madhava Rao played a key role in the construction of the Secretariat building. Remembering his immense contribution to the city of Trivandrum, the statue of Sir T Madhava Rao was the first to put up in the city. His statue was placed opposite the Secretariat and to this day it’s called the statue junction.

The only other statue within the

Secretariat premises is that of Velu Thampi Dalawa, prime minister of the erstwhile Travancore.

It was in 1900 the building had its first visitor. British Viceroy of India Lord Curzon was the first the viceroy to visit the Darbar Hall in the majestic building. He was received in splendour giving a grand feast at a temporary shamiana arranged behind the Darbar Hall.

As the majestic seat of the government is celebrating its 150 years, a rare opportunity to witness glimpses of the historical journey of Kerala has been arranged for the public. A photo exhibition by the State Archives department and one by the information and public relations department reflects on the vivid history of Secretariat which further portrays the glorious past of the city of Trivandrum as well.

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EVENT

Kerala Health Minister Releases Global Ayurveda Festival 2020 Brochure

The fourth edition of Global Ayurveda Festival (GAF 2020) will get underway on May 16 at the Adlux International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Angamaly. The Brochure for the five-day GAF 2020 was released in Thiruvananthapuram

by Smt KK Shylaja Teacher, Minister for Health and Social Justice, Govt of Kerala. The function was attended

by MLAs Sri V S Sivakumar, Sri O Rajagopal, and Sri Roji John, who is also the Vice-Chairman of GAF 2020. The Minister released the brochure by handing over a copy to O Rajagopal MLA. Promising all support from the state government for the smooth conduct of the Global Ayurveda Festival, Smt K K Shylaja Teacher said that it is important that Ayurveda also needs to be put on an esteemed pedestal, even as the modern systems of 36 February 2020

medicine see growth. Ayurveda is capable of adding to the immunity of the body and keeping ailments at bay. With good levels of immunity, even diseases like Corona would stay off. It needs to be noted that the negative impacts of lifestyle changes have paved the way for ailments to affect the human body. By practising lifestyle norms as suggested by Ayurveda, diseases could be kept away, the Minister added. She also added that the government is fast giving shape to an Ayurveda research centre in the state.

Speaking at the function, Sri V S Sivakumar MLA, who presided, said that Ayurveda has the capability to help prevent communicable diseases and lifestyle ailments. Such diseases have crept in among us due to the fact that we have long forgotten the essence of Ayurveda. Further,

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Ayurveda has also proved that it has all in it to help boost the tourism as well as economic scenario in Kerala.

Pointing out that Ayurveda is an ancient science that should never be forgotten, Sri O Rajagopal MLA said that added reseach in Ayurveda is the need of the hour. He also lauded the state government’s efforts in building a research centre for Ayurveda in Kannur.

Launching the GAF 2020 website at the function, Sri Roji John MLA said that he expects the Global Ayurveda Festival to be a mega carnival of all stakeholders in the Ayurveda domain.

GAF2020 is being organised by the Centre for Innovation in Science and Social Action (CISSA), in association with the Central and State Governments, the Ayush, Industry and Commerce, Tourism, and organisations such as Ayurveda Medical Association of India (AMAI), Ayurveda Hospital Management Association, Ayurveda Medicine Manufacturers Organisation of India, 38 February 2020

Drug Manufacturers Association, and others. Sri. V Muraleedharan, Union Minister of State for External Affairs & Parliamentary Affairs is the Chairman of GAF 2020, while Sri Shripad Yesso Naik, Union Minister of State (IC) for Ayush, and Smt KK Shylaja Teacher, Minster for Health and Social Justice, Govt of Kerala are patrons. Dr P Madhavankutty Warrier is the working chairman, Dr GG Gangadharan is the Secretary General and Dr C Suresh Kumar is the Chief Coordinator for GAF 2020.

Envisaged as a conclave to make the most needed dialogue on Ayurveda happen in a contemporary setting, the Global Ayurveda Festival 2020 will run for 5 days from May 16 to 20, 2020. This time around, GAF will have three major components - an International Seminar, a Global Ayurveda Exhibition and an International Cooperation Conclave.

The Global Ayurveda Festival 2020 will witness the presence of the best among the international Ayurveda fraternity, who would

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converge in Angamaly to learn, experience, collaborate, progress and expand. GAF 202 is being lined up as an event that would meet the needs of all - from students to scientists, from practitioners to policy makers and from educationalists to entrepreneurs.

Planned as a truly global festival, GAF 2020 will be a platform to coordinate the efforts of all committed members from various countries to place Ayurveda as a global system of medicine. The stakeholders from many countries will share their experiences, needs and ideas for collaborations as they look at Ayurveda as something worth depend upon.

The last edition of GAF had encouraging participation of stakeholders from the world over, precisely from 42 countries. This time around, the numbers are expected to be higher.

The mega event will be a platform for global players, policy makers, practitioners and preachers to meet and transcend to the next level, in business, international facilitations, and universal health care. One of the themes of GAF 2020 will be Ayurveda Medical Tourism: Actualizing India’s Incredibility. GAF 2020 will bring together the world of Ayurveda’s medical/wellness care providers and its health seekers to one platform. Ayurveda Medical Tourism will be featured in all the three major components of GAF 2020, as plenary deliberations, 40 February 2020

exhibits and business explorations respectively.

Another theme would be Child Health - from Conception to Adolescence. GAF 2020 would take it as a responsibility to bring clarity and conviction to the true possibilities of Ayurveda in child care through a structured seminar on key aspects of child care, like Preparation to conceive a healthy child; Pregnancy Care; Post-natal care; Neonatal care; Immunization and Ayurveda; Paediatric nutrition; Praakaara yoga, Suvarnaprasa; Growth and Development; Common paediatric conditions and their management; Behavioural and psychological disorders; Developmental disorders; Genetics; and Healthy upbringing.

Prominent events at the Global Ayurveda Festival 2020 would include an ASEAN Meet on Traditional Medicines for Global Health; an International Delegate Assembly on Globalizing Ayurveda - Scope, Challenges and Solutions; a Panel Discussion on Ayurveda in Africa, which would assess India’s Preparedness; and a Special Session on Ayurveda Medical Tourism.

Besides, AYUSH Clinics, Workshops, Ayurveda Solidarity Meets, Ayurveda and Ethnic Food Carnivals, Book Fair, Documentary Film Festival and more will be part of the five day festival. The purpose of the seminar would be to expand the presence of Ayurveda, to place it effectively in public health domain and thus play a prominent role in child care and nation building.

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CUISINE

MEEN PASTA MOILEE The best season of the year is here. We present two auspicious dishes for you to indulge yourself to fill up on the season’s finest recipes, which are quick, easy and absolutely delicious.

For Pasta Sheet 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Refined Flour Egg Refined Oil Salt Water

: 250gm : 01no : 15ml : 02gm : 15ml

For Stuffing 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Seer Fish, Brunoise cut Green chilli, deseeded and fine chopped Curry leaf, fine chopped Lemon zest, fine grated Lime juice Coconut Oil Salt

: 100gm : 05gm : 03gm : 02gm : 10ml : 05ml : 03gm

For Moilee Sauce 1. Fenugreek 2. Curry leaf 3. Garlic, fine chopped 4. Ginger, julienne 5. Green chilli, slit 6. Onion, slice 7. Tomato,red&roundles 8. Turmeric powder 9. Cashew nut paste 10. Fish sock, white 11. Salt 12. Fenugreek powder 13. White pepper powder 14. Sugar 15. Coconut Milk, thick 16. Lime juice 17. Coconut oil 42 February 2020

: 02gm : 05gm : 10gm : 05gm : 02no : 20gm : 01no : 05gm : 10gm : 100ml : 05gm : 02gm : 02gm : 03gm : 100ml : 10ml : 15ml

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Method of preparation: • For preparing the pasta sheet mix, add the first ingredients together, make smooth dough & keep aside for some time.

• Meanwhile, prepare the miscenplace for the sauce preparation & stuffing fish.

• Mix the second ingredients for stuffing fish very gently. Be careful not to crumple the fish cubes. Keep it aside.

• For stuffing pasta with the fish, roll the prepared dough into a sheet and cut them into small circle shapes. Place the fish cubes mixture on top of the pasta sheet and cover it with another one. Seal the edges.

Press with a fork. You can make four to six pieces in a portion.

• Heat the sauce pan with water; add salt and one tablespoon refined oil to it. When the water boils, add prepared stuffed pasta into it and cook for seven minutes. Once the pasta is cooked, drain the pasta and drizzle some oil on it, without breaking the pasta.

• For preparing moilee sauce, heat a pan and add coconut oil to it.

Once it is hot, add fenugreek. When it turns red, add chopped garlic, julienne ginger, slit green chilli, curry leaf and onion slices and sauté for one minute. Once it is half-cooked, add turmeric powder and sauté to mix well and add cashewnut paste & fish stock. Boil it on mild fire. Once it reaches semi thick consistency, add coconut milk, salt, sugar & fenugreek powder.

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Further, when it attains thick consistency, switch off the fire. Add lime juice, pasta fish and tomato roundels. Drizzle some coconut oil & curry leaf on top of the dishes & serve it hot.

Rajesh Kumar currently serves as the Chief Executive Chef at the SP Grand Days, the top luxury hotel, Trivandrum.

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46 February 2020

RECOGNITION

Kerala adjudged Best Wellness Destination

by Outlook Traveller

K

erala has been adjudged India’s Best Wellness Destination by leading tourism magazine Outlook Traveller for the year 2020, in a robust validation of the state’s authentic Ayurveda and other traditional systems of holistic healing.

The award was presented by former parliamentarian, columnist and author Shri Baijayant ‘Jay’ Panda, who was the Chief Guest, at an impressive function in New Delhi on Saturday evening. The award was received by Tourism Information Officer P K Sooraj.

Kerala was also in the final round of awards for best tourism state and best wedding destination. The other tourist attractions of the state that made in it the final round were Jatayu Earth Centre, the world’s largest bird sculpture based on a unique combination of mythology, technology, culture, adventure and leisure, the Kochi-Muziris Biennale (both in the category of Best Tourist Attraction), Niramaya Retreats Cardamom Club, Thekkady (Best Hill Resort) and Coconut Lagoon, Kumarakom (Best Heritage Hotel).

The award winners who were asked about the favourite destination by the host replied Kerala as their favourite destination, which also was a welcome recognition for Kerala at the event.

“Ayurveda has always been the USP of Kerala Tourism, bringing in tourists from all parts of the globe. In addition, the state provides a range of other relaxing therapies that rejuvenate people tired of monotonous city life,” said Kerala Tourism Minister Shri Kadakampally Surendran. “The Outlook Traveller Award is a huge recognition that will further bolster the state’s reputation as a destination for holistic healing.”

The Outlook Traveller Awards are considered the benchmark of quality in the travel and tourism industry and felicitate the best each year. With 25 categories, the awards take a 360⁰ view of the tourism sector and have attracted leading names associated with the travel and tourism industry.

This year the awards were a spectacle of engrossing speakers, a stellar jury, engaging panel discussions and a magical evening.

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48 February 2020

The Kerala Agro Industries Corporation Ltd.

“Kissan Jyothi”, Fort, Thiruvananthapuram-695023 Ph : 0471-2471343, 2471344, 2471345 Fax : 0471-2463188 Email : mdkaicltd08@bsnl.in Website : www.keralaagro.com

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52 February 2020