Rotary news october 2013 v2 by Rotary News India

“To achieve what you have never achieved, do what you have never done.” It all begins with the power of an idea that seeks to break new ground. The Annual Training Programme for Incoming District Governors is to be planned and organised — why not have it at an overseas venue and provide the right setting for meaningful deliberations and well deserved recreation that blends harmoniously to provide an

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experience of a lifetime? Thereafter why not have the Rotary Institute for our Zones 4, 5 and 6A on a luxurious cruise liner with motivational presentations, sumptuous food and mind-boggling entertainment providing every delegate memories to cherish for a lifetime! Indeed RI Director and Convener P.T. Prabhakar, Chairman PDG Basker and the entire Institute team worked relentlessly to provide all this and more. The Governors’ Elect Training Seminar (GETS) was held on the 23rd and 24th of August 2013 at the Grand

Copthorne Hotel, Singapore — a superb facility abutting the Singapore river and the Kimseng Park in Downtown Singapore. “Let’s make Singapore our Garden,” was the message that greeted the visiting DGEs as they landed at the magnificent Changi Airport and drove to the venue. The well manicured lawns, lush foliage and the flowers that danced to the silent music of the breeze were indeed a visual treat. Nurturing and preserving the environment and the importance of making development subservient to the rules of Nature is an unmistakable message that Singapore has for every discerning visitor. ‘Preserve

Planet Earth’ has been one of Rotary’s flagship programme and the City State of Singapore indeed served to remind us that concern for our environment has to be a consistent commitment. The GETS got off to a great start with an ice-breaking session on the evening of 22nd August. It was a fun filled evening with DGEs and their spouses getting to know each other and bonding beautifully. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of skits by the DGEs who were divided into four groups at random. Each group was given a theme and 30 minutes to prepare a skit, involving all team members. The themes for the skits were DG’s Official Visit, Parliamentary Debate, Bollywood Film Shoot and DGN Election. The presentations had the audience in splits and one marvelled at the fund of innate talents, latent among the Rotary leaders! Great job DGEs! RI Director P.T. Prabhakar distributed prizes to the teams, placed 1 and 2. Held under the able chairmanship of PDG Raja Ramakrishnan, the programme of the GETS was meticulously planned and implemented with precision. RI Director P.T. Prabhakar addressed the incoming Governors on the 23rd morning reminding them that each one of them was a leader of leaders and held the key for their year of success and significance. PRIP Kalyan Banerjee exhorted the delegates to give off their best and leave their leadership footprints for others to emulate in the cause of Rotary. Strategic Planning, Team Building, Strengthening Membership, Working with New Generations and the Art of Effective Communication were the topics for the group discussion sessions that witnessed excellent participation and interaction. In the evening of 23rd August, the DGEs and their spouses headed for the Singapore Flyer, a giant wheel which goes to a height of 300 metres, offering a breath-taking view of Singapore by night.

Facing Page: RI Director P.T. Prabhakar delivers his address at the Institute. From Top: PDG Raja Ramakrishnan, GETS Chair, addressing the meeting; PRIP Rajendra K. Saboo addressing a session; RI President Ron Burton addressing the gathering.

OCTOBER 2013

ROTARY NEWS 43

RI Director P.T. Prabhakar speaks at a session.

The spouses programme was well conceived and structured by Ann Nalini Prabhakar, covering many relevant topics apart from exciting and lively discussions on preparations for the Talent Night and the cultural display to be held at the International Assembly. The DGEs and spouses put on their dancing shoes and practiced their dance steps with gusto under the watchful eyes of their trainers PDG Raji Vadlamani and Past President Dr.Amitha Kotbagi. The motivational address by PRIP Rajendra K. Saboo served as the right prelude to the group discussions that were held on Saturday, the 24th August. PRIP Raja Saboo emphasised that a judicious mix of flexibility and firmness are the hallmarks of a true leader and at the end of the day the question to be answered will always be, ‘Has Rotary made me a better person?’ The group discussion sessions ably marshalled by experienced faculty members featured a number of relevant topics — Public Image of Rotary, 44 ROTARY NEWS OCTOBER 2013

Foundation Grants and Administration, the District Conference, International Assembly etc. The closing plenary in the evening featured the Graduation Ceremony with RI President Ron Burton and Convener P.T. Prabhakar presenting the Graduation Certificates to the DGEs. In his inspiring address President Ron drew from his personal experience and stated that often times membership development is all about making that phone call and inviting a friend to join Rotary. We all have a responsibility to share the beautiful experience of being a Rotarian with others thereby Engaging Rotary and Changing Lives. Engaging New Generations is one of our challenges and the RI President referred to the Presidential Conference on New Generation to be held on October 5 and 6, 2013 at Chennai. The DGEs were so thoroughly impressed by the meticulous planning of GETS that they spontaneously garlanded RI Director P.T. Prabhakar

Facing page clockwise: PRID K.R. Ravindran receiving International Service Award for a Polio-free World; PDG V. Rajkumar, RI District 3201, receiving an award; PDG C. Basker, RI District 3000, addressing a session; A view of the audience; L to R: RI President Ron Burton, Jetta, RI Director P.T. Prabhakar and Nalini.

and Institute Chair Basker! Some of them spoke highly about how prompt the response was, from both Basker and PTP, for all their queries. One PDG remarked that this is the first time ever, that he had received the Institute kit and the Institute programme by courier, a good 10 days before the event; he found a new definition for PTP as ‘Planning To Perfection!’ As the GETS drew to a close, the DGEs exuded palpable self confidence and enthusiasm reflecting the fact that they had gone through a great learning experience. Apart from the GETS,

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Clockwise: Institute Chair, PDG Basker with spouse Malathi; RI President Ron Burton addressing a session; Shri. T.T. Rangarajan (Mahatria Ra) inspiring the Rotarians through his talk; A photo session with the Rotary leaders; A cultural show.

the Pre-Institute Events included the District Governorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Seminar, the DGN Training Seminar and the District Trainersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Training Seminar all of which witnessed excellent participation and positive feedback. Kudos to PDG Ajit, PDG Ranjit Bhatia and PDG Krish Rajendran who, as Chairs of the adjunct seminars, took great pains to ensure that the seminars were participative and meaningful. Came Sunday, the 25th of August and the excitement touched new levels even as the over 800 delegates arrived in Singapore and made their way to the Harbour, the boarding point of the 46 ROTARY NEWS OCTOBER 2013

Super Star Virgo, the luxury cruise liner and the venue of our 2013 Rotary Institute. There was a welcome booth, thoughtfully arranged at the Changi airport and the volunteers Murali and Tamilselvan received everyone with a smile and helped them board on to specially arranged buses, which took them to Singapore harbour. All the delegates were warmly welcomed by the cruise staff as they moved on to their well appointed rooms in the majestic and imposing liner. Indeed, the Super Star Virgo is sheer luxury on water with all conceivable facilities to pamper the

guests. The Lido Auditorium with a seating capacity of 1,000 was the venue for all the Institute sessions, affording state of the art facilities in terms of stage and audio-visual infrastructure. The Inaugural Session in the evening of 25th August was an event to remember and cherish. After an impressive flag ceremony conducted by PDG Sam Patibandla, Chief Sergeantat-Arms, the national anthems of the participating nations were played. RID P.T. Prabhakar spoke of the tremendous challenges in holding an Institute away from home and on

SPOUSE MANTRA

he matriarch of the Indian Rotary family, Smt. Usha Saboo enthralled the spouses with her excellent presentation. She urged the spouses to develop the qualities of patience, understanding, tolerance, sacrifice and enthusiasm that would go a long way in making their year a special one! A take-away for all the spouses was the beautiful message from Ushaji that every object in the house we dwell has a lesson for us:

The Roof says – Aim high The Fan says – Keep cool The Clock says – Be Punctual The Window says – Look outside your own home The Calendar says – Keep yourself updated And the Door says – Push harder

water and complimented the Institute team ably led by PDG Basker who had left no stone unturned in making the event a memorable lifetime experience. He spoke of the great strides made by Rotary in South Asia in terms of Membership Growth, TRF Contributions and Leadership Development and complimented all the past, present and future RI Officers for their invaluable role. Rotary in South Asia today is a vibrant and pulsating expression of the spirit of volunteerism and is sure to grow from strength to strength. In his inaugural address, RI President Ron

Burton congratulated RI Director P.T. Prabhakar on the novel idea of having an Institute on the ship even as he recognised the tremendous contribution of Indian Rotary to RI. The highlight of the inaugural session was the inspiring address by Sri Mahatria Ra on the Rotary theme, ‘Engage Rotary Change Lives.’ Sri Mahatria Ra has in the last eighteen years transformed hundreds of people by providing significant breakthroughs in their lives. Sri Mahatria Ra complimented the Rotarians, who are above religion, caste and creed, for their outstanding contribution in

making this world a better place to live in, for being united and committed in the cause of service and for looking beyond themselves to discover opportunities to serve the community. He held the audience spellbound by his outstanding presentation which included a number of thought provoking anecdotes and real life incidents that received a spontaneous standing ovation at the end of his talk. After the mind-boggling entertainment, ‘Beyond Belief ’ by Magician Daniel Cavern, the delegates headed to the promenade OCTOBER 2013

ROTARY NEWS 47

Clockwise: PRIP Kalyan Banerjee addressing the delegates; PRIP Rajendra K. Saboo at a session; DG Rajani Mukerji, RI District 3291, receiving an award; TRF Trustee Chair D.K. Lee delivers his address. 48 ROTARY NEWS OCTOBER 2013

SAILING TOGETHER

mt. Binota Banerjee in her own simple and endearing style encouraged the spouses to walk hand in hand with the Governors providing all the support — mental, spiritual and moral in their journey of providing leadership to their Districts and leaving their own indelible imprints before passing on the mantle to their successors. She drew from her own personal experience as the spouse of PRIP Kalyan Banerjee to drive home the message that behind every successful Governor is his spouse ensuring in every way that the sailing is smooth in the voyage of service!

for an evening of fellowship and fun and of course the sumptuous dinner at Bella Vista Restaurant. The Plenary Sessions on both Monday August 26 th and Tuesday August 27 th covered several thrust areas of Rotary with the highly experienced Chairmen making excellent presentations on various topics viz., Polio, Total Literacy by 2017, Making Rotary Simple and the Five year RI Financial forecast. PRIP Kalyan effectively conducted the panel discussion on Literacy. This was followed by an effective presentation by PRIP Raja Saboo on “How to make Rotary simple.” International Polio service awards were presented to PRIP Kalyan Banerjee and PRID K.R. Ravindran, for their outstanding contribution to polio eradication. RI President Ron Burton and TRF Trustee Chair D.K. Lee presented the awards. The outstanding presentation by Dr. Sunita Krishnan, Co-Founder and CEO of the Prajwala Foundation, on Changing Lives through Prajwala, had a deep impact on the delegates. Dr. Krishnan who runs the Prajwala Foundation based in Hyderabad is committed to the cause of rescue and rehabilitation of child and women victims of sex trafficking and rape. She called upon every Rotarian to develop a zero tolerance attitude towards sex trafficking and rape.

This being a sensitive issue, people are prone to push things under the carpet rather than come out in the open to condemn such atrocities on women and children. This in turn emboldens the perpetration of those horrendous crimes and thus the vicious circle continues to exist. Many of the PDGs offered to support the activities of Prajwala and take up this cause in their districts. The ship docked at Phuket, Thailand at 7 p.m. and all the 800 delegates disembarked for a memorable visit to Phuket Fantasea. The Phuket Rotarians gave a red carpet welcome to RI President Ron Burton, RI Director P.T. Prabhakar and all the Rotarians. It was nice to be welcomed with a band in a foreign land. RI Director P.T. Prabhakar, with the help of local Rotary DG Sanguan and PDG Orachorn had made perfect arrangements for the one hour drive to the Phuket Fantasea. A local police car provided the escort for the14 Mercedes Benz cars for the VIPs followed by 30 buses. The beautiful Thai village, the huge dining area, the 2nd largest in the world, where 4,000 can dine simultaneously has to be seen to be believed. Then started the Fantasea show (in the 4,000 seater auditorium) which is one of the best shows anywhere in the world!! There were elephants by the dozens, horses, tigers, birds, magicians, trapeze artists all on stage, OCTOBER 2013

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From top: RI Director P.T. Prabhakar with the delegates; RRFC Vinay Kulkarni announcing the awards; PDG Raja Seenivasan, RI District 3230, receiving an award.

combined with laser show and brilliant sets — a most unforgettable event, lasting one hour. After a most satisfying evening, though late, the Rotarians and spouses returned to the ship by midnight, unable to believe what they had actually seen at Phuket Fantasea! Tuesday 27th August was dedicated to The Rotary Foundation Seminar. The RRFCs presented TRF Reports of Zones 4, 5 and 6A. RI Director P.T. Prabhakar recognised Major Donors and Arch Klumph Society members. TRF Chair PRIP D.K. Lee spoke on TRF Goals for 2014–15. The TRF awards for 2012–13 were presented. PDG Raja Seenivasan, whose District 3230 Rotarians contributed a record US $1.6 million to TRF collected many awards, followed by No:2 in India, District 3140 (usually No:1!) represented by PDG Balkrishna Inamdar. 50 ROTARY NEWS OCTOBER 2013

A view of the audience.

What followed the awards was a brilliant programme on PR in Rotary, a beautiful concept of RI Director P.T. Prabhakar, which presented interviews with world leaders about Rotary. It was difficult to believe that someone could mimic the voices of US President Obama, our PM Manmohanji, Amitabh Bachhan, Laluji, Sachin Tendulkar and our own Ron Burton, so well. It was nice to listen to the world leaders, complimenting Rotary and the Rotarians, for their dedication. This was followed by Sri Mahatria Ra on the topic, ‘Purpose of life.’ This was the best presentation of the entire Institute. Sri Ra pointed out that we are giving too much importance to the past. “Simply draw a line to the past, shed your ego and concentrate on the future of Rotary” was his sane advice to the Rotarians. Once again, he got a spontaneous standing ovation. An optional tour was arranged for the delegates to the beautiful Langkawi Island.

All roads led to LIDO at 6.45 p.m., where, the best show of the trip, ‘Somewhere in Time,’ thrilled the audience for 45 minutes. The gymnastics performed without a safety net, by the trapeze artists, on a moving ship, was unbelievable! This was followed by the Bollywood Night and Dinner at the Helipad, which was thoroughly enjoyed by the delegates who happily danced to several Bollywood and regional numbers belted out by the DJ. RI President Ron Burton and Jetta obliged everyone who wanted a picture with them! Wednesday, 28th August started off with the presentation of Membership Awards. This was followed by a fantastic presentation on the 2014 Institute, ‘Vanakkam Chennai,’ by the Institute Team, headed by 2014 Institute Chair Raja Ramakrishnan. The open house witnessed enthusiastic participation by the delegates. In his closing remarks, RI President Ron Burton paid rich compliments to RI Director P.T. Prabhakar and team for putting together a remarkable

Institute, which harmoniously blended the outstanding Rotary speeches with ‘out of the world’ entertainment. Trustee Chair D.K. Lee remarked that this was by far the best Institute he had ever attended! Delegates moved on for the Farewell Lunch. Thirty buses awaited the delegates at the Singapore harbour for transportation to the airport and thus yet another memorable Institute came to a close. Every Institute is a great learning experience for the Rotary leaders as it provides an opportunity to meet and bond with several wonderful people committed to the cause of Rotary. Indeed the words of PRIP Paulo D’ Costa come to mind, “Some people collect stamps, others collect coins; I am a Rotarian, I collect friends.” A PDG remarked “I have seen and heard so much in three days, that it will take me three months to assimilate and understand” — that summed up the Rotary Institute 2013, Sail to Serve, perfectly! By PDG C. Suresh and Madhu OCTOBER 2013

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Education is the bedrock of social and economic development. It is only through education that we can hope to eradicate social evils. It is Rotaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lofty mission to enlighten the world and provide ample opportunities to the underprivileged so that they too become literate and achieve their dreams. The distribution of scholarships by RI District 3230 is an ambitious move in this direction.

ne of the couplets preached in the world-famous Thirukkural goes like this: Orumaikan thaankattra kalvi oruvarku Yezhumaiyum yemap pudaithu. Celebrated Tamil poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar, through his

renowned Tamil literature Thirukkural (a work on ethics) expresses that the learning which a man has acquired in one birth will yield him contentment during his seven births. Cognizant about education and to stop the dropout rate in schools in Tamil Nadu, the compassionate Rotarians of RI District 3230

Chairman of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Jai Hoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; project, Rtn. C. Muthusamy addressing the gathering.

Scholarships being given to students.

came together for a noble project named â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Jai Ho,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; a programme to make education available to the lesser-privileged. Partners in this highly lauded project was Zee Entertainment Company, a leading Indian television media and entertainment company with over 33 channels spread across 169 countries entertaining 670+ million viewers. Zee as a responsible media organisation has time and again been engaged in various social awareness and service activities. In March 2012, the Rotarians from the South Asian region congregated at Kathmandu, Nepal, for the Rotary South Asia Conference on Literacy, took a pledge to bring Total Literacy in South Asia by 2017. Rotary South Asia Literacy Action Plan was drafted and rules were laid. As part of the action plan and to achieve this goal, the Rotarians of RI District 3230 designed a partnership with Zee Entertainment Company and came out with this mega project. The principal intention of this initiative was to identify school dropouts in class 10 and 12, who were unable to pursue their studies due to financial constraints and help them conquer their dream profession through quality higher education. OCTOBER 2013 ROTARY NEWS 53

From top: A section of the audience; Cultural event in progress.

Students who completed 10th and 12 class in March-April 2013 were selected for scholarships in any one of the following categories: Merit Scholarships, Merit Cum Means Scholarships, Sports and Extra Curricular Activities or First Graduate in the Family. With a combined effort from Zee Tamil and Rotary International District 3230, ‘Jai Ho’ reached out to 20,000 schools and over 10 lakh students across Tamil Nadu through various poster campaigns and on-air promotions. Over one lakh students enrolled for the scholarships from the length and breadth of Tamil Nadu. A panel of juries comprising of Former DGP of Tamil Nadu, th

54 ROTARY NEWS OCTOBER 2013

Mr. R. Natraj IPS, Honourable Justice Mr. K.N. Basha, Actor Smt. Rohini, leading advocate and social activist Elizabeth Seshadri and Educationalist Rtn. K. Kumaran, selected 6,000 applicants. The selected 10th standard students were awarded scholarships for their higher secondary education while the selected 12th standard students opted for the course of their choice — be it medical, engineering, arts and science or law. The total value of these scholarships is about Rs.2 crores. On August 17, 2013, the scholarships were awarded to all the selected students in a grand, glittering and

entertainment packed programme in Chennai. Many well-known personalities of Chennai along with Rotarians of RI District 3230, jury members and many film actors gathered to celebrate the success of ‘Jai Ho.’ The audience were enthralled by the scintillating dance and musical performances by popular dance and music troupes. District Governor A.P. Kanna, who is also the brain behind this colossal endeavour, appreciated the efforts of all the Rotarians and Zee Tamil for making this project a huge success. Chairman of ‘Jai Ho’ project, Rtn. C. Muthusamy noted that this project will be an ongoing project and many more students will be benefitted in the coming years. How true are the words of Human Rights Activist, Malcolm X: “Education is our passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to the people who prepare for it today.” The world is a paradise only for the educated who have the courage and the capacity to stand on his legs. Education is the route by which the knowledge, character and behaviour of an individual are formed and refined according to the desired standard of the society. To achieve total literacy and also to help the downtrodden students for whom poverty had cast a shadow on their ambition to continue their studies, ‘Jai Ho’ project comes as a boon. S. Selvi

OCTOBER 2013 ROTARY NEWS 55

ROTARY ACTS

No More Teething

TROUBLE

he people of Thalavadi of Sathyamangalam taluk in Tamil Nadu are heaving a sigh of relief and are sporting a beautiful smile now, not because the legendary sandalwood smuggler Veerappan was killed but because all their dental ailments were addressed and treated, thanks to the mega dental camp organised by the Rotarians of RI Districts

56 ROTARY NEWS OCTOBER 2013

3202 and 3230 in association with Chettinad Health City. Their teeth were clattering not out of fear for the bandit, but because they did not have anywhere to turn to for treatment of their dental defects! T h a l ava d i , D h i m b a m a n d Hassanur are beautiful villages in Sathyamangalam taluk located in Erode district of Tamil Nadu and lies within the boundary of

the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Set amidst thick forests atop the rolling hills and green fields in the Moyar Valley where the Western and the Eastern Ghats meet, these villages are blessed with a salubrious climate all the year round. Situated mid-way on the national highway that connects Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu and Mysore in Karnataka, the region is just a two hour drive from both the

cities. This road less travelled is a nature-lover’s paradise and an ornithologist’s heaven. Thalavadi situated at 57 km and 27 hairpin bends up, rings a fearsome bell for people in the southern part of India for it is home for the notorious smuggler, kidnapper and murderer, Veerappan who made a living poaching ivory and sandalwood from the forests and selling them in the black market. He was the most wanted criminal by both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu Police. The entire nation was shocked when the forest brigand kidnapped Kannada film icon, Rajkumar and three of his family members in the year 2000 and was later released after keeping them in custody for 108 days; the incident

Patients await their turn at the camp site.

From being toothless ... to a winning smile.

took place at a hamlet, Gajanur, very close to Thalavadi. Though he carried a reward of Rs.5 crore for his capture, Veerappan evaded arrest for over 30 years when in 2004 he was killed in an encounter with the Tamil Nadu Special Task Force. This hypnotising green belt located amidst the Tiger Reserve Forest, is inhabited with indigenous tribal people largely belonging to the Irula and the Soliga communities. Though the region is rich in flora and fauna, though the area is a sight for sore eyes, the entire belt is underdeveloped, considering the status of its neighbouring towns. Healthcare and infrastructure are yet to make an impact on the community. The mission of Rotarians is to make a difference, spreading hope and cheer. Rotary is all about giving meaning to people’s lives, enlightening minds through education and ensuring good health and basic comforts for the common man. The suffering society wherever it may be never escapes the compassionate eyes of the Rotarians. And that was how Thalavadi and its surrounding hamlets came into the scanner of Rotarians of RI Districts 3202 and 3230. Nine Rotary clubs from both the Districts — RC Guindy, RI District

3230, and Rotary clubs of Erode, Erode North, Erode Cosmos, Erode Midtown, Bhavani-Komarapalayam, Sathyamangalam, Gobi and Thalavadi, RI District 3202 — got together to organise a mega dental camp organised for three days from August 2–4, 2013 for the tribal community at Thalavadi. Medical statistics reveal that awareness of good health and the reach of advanced medical care especially for the economically backward sections and those in the semi-urban and rural belts is drastically underserved. Oral hygiene takes a backseat for a majority of Indian population. Research studies reveal that over 70 percent of Indians suffer from oral diseases in various forms; 95 percent ail from gum diseases and 70 percent of children suffer from dental caries. Caries remain one of the most common diseases throughout the world. Poverty is also a significant social detriment for oral health. Dental caries have been linked with lower socio-economic status. The use of tobacco is another significant risk factor for periodontal disease which causes root caries. Dentists agree that most patients have no dental hygiene routine prior to their first visit to the dentist and in OCTOBER 2013

ROTARY NEWS 57

Doctors at the dentures workshop.

our country, people immediately visit a doctor if they suffer from fever or stomach ache, but they put off a visit to the dentist for tooth ache. Dental issues such as tooth decay or gum disease or fixing of dentures are being neglected even by the old people, and they just learn to live with it. Poor oral health and untreated oral diseases can have significant impact on the quality of life of the elderly too. During the beginning of the Rotary year, the Rotarians of Rotary Club of Guindy, RI District 3230, envisaged an inter-district healthcare initiative to address the needs of the tribals inhabiting the hilly regions of Tamil Nadu. Chartered in 1995, RC Guindy has brought huge transformations in the society through their remarkable service programmes. The Kottivakkam Centre for Acute Dental Care was an initiative of the club in partnership with The Friendship Association of Norway to hold weekly dental camps. This project has benefitted over 1,20,000 patients in remote villages, including 58 ROTARY NEWS OCTOBER 2013

school children. In the field of education, the club had a big role to play in transforming a deteriorated 8,000 sq.ft building into what is today called The Rotary Club of Guindy High School, providing education up to higher secondary classes. Towards empowerment of women, the club provided the answer through the Rotary Guindy Crompton Vocational Training Centre at Mathur village, where today over 400 ladies learn tailoring, doll making, computer literacy and beautician course. The club’s regular medical camps aim at better health for the brick kiln labourers at Alathur village. The dedication of each and every Rotarian of RC Guindy makes a difference when and where it matters most. This dental camp at the remote forest area is thus an effort in the right direction with the right mix of equally sincere Rotarians of RI District 3202. The nine inter-district clubs thus geared up to increase the smile quotient of the villages of Sathyamangalam through their ‘Operation Smile’ service

project. A coordination committee was formed and the services of an NGO, Sudar was taken to reach the tribal society more effectively. Preliminary camps were held at the 10 panchayats during July to prescreen the people of the 11 identified villages in Sathyamangalam taluk for dental ailments. They travelled up on the hilly terrains to interior hamlets to diagnose dental defects and create awareness among the villagers about the main camp that was to be held at Thalavadi. The Rotarians were supported by a team of 38 dentists, 6 professors, 11 paramedical staffs including technicians and staff nurses from Chettinad Health City, Chennai. The paperwork and recording of crucial data of the patients that were vital for the fixation of dentures were taken care of meticulously by the Rotarian volunteers. Dental materials and equipment weighing two and a half tonnes were transported to the camp site from Chennai by bus and a fully equipped ambulance with dental chairs and accessories were also

brought to Thalavadi for the final mega dental camp. The coordination between the clubs was just excellent. Each had a role to play. Accommodations for the team were arranged by RC BhavaniKomarapalayam at Bhavani near Erode. On the morning of the camp, the dental lathes, incinerators, sterilisers and other accessories including diesel generators to take care of any power disruptions were set and the entire scene was sophistication personified. The Rotarians wanted the best for the people. Arrangements were made to transport the patients from their home to the campsite. Apart from the patients who were pre-screened for the dentures, more people with minor dental ailments also trooped in. The dentists were busy with the procedures such as scaling, filling and extraction. A total of 60 dentists were involved in examination, measurement and preparation of dentures for the pre-identified patients. With clockwork precision and exemplary professional skill, they were on the task to complete the procedures and bring a smile to the hitherto toothless faces. These patients were also provided accommodation and hygienic food until such time they were ready to leave with their dentures in place. It was indeed a sight to behold to see the big, broad smiles on the faces of the patients for whom the dentures were fixed. Operation Smile was a big hit at Thalavadi. Though the monetary value of the entire project worked out to Rs. 18 lakhs, the amount of perseverance and human effort and the satisfaction it brought is priceless. There is a saying that goes like this: â&#x20AC;&#x153;It takes 42 muscles to frown while it is just 28 muscles to smile.â&#x20AC;? While so long the people of this remote region were frowning over all the things that they were unable to do, today it is smiles all the way. The dental camp attracted the interest of the government officials too. The local MLA of Bhavanisagar and the former Union Minister of State for Social Justice

Rotarians at the valedictory function.

A patient being treated.

and Empowerment were all praise for the hospital-like facilities set up at such a remote location. The valedictory function was attended by the District Collector of Erode, Dr. V.K. Shanmugam who said that he was in total awe of the camp organised at such a magnitude and hailed the commitment and selfless service of the Rotarians. The dynamic leadership of the Presidents of the eight participating clubs along with the guidance and

support of the District Governors, Rtn. A.P. Khanna of District 3230 and Rtn. Dr. Senthilnathan Siva (himself a dentist) of District 3202 and the zeal and energy of the District officers resulted in a satisfying achievement of bringing radiant smiles to over 700 villagers. For the Rotarians, the excellent bonhomie they shared and the fine tuning of every aspect at the camp was an invaluable lesson in project and camp management. Jaishree OCTOBER 2013

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ROTARY ACTS

The essence of learning lies in the ambience of a classroom and when it comes to creating the right atmosphere nobody can do it better than Rotary. The distribution of 1,600 classroom desks and benches by the Rotary Club of Guntur manifested the quest for literacy.

edefining the meaning of a desk to the grandstand of Rotaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s literacy mission, the Rotary Club of Guntur, RI District 3150 in association with RI District 6920, USA and TRF under the matching grants distributed 1,600 sets

Clockwise: Happy children enjoying their new furniture; Classroom furniture lined up for distribution; PDG T.V.R. Murti speaks at the furniture distribution ceremony.

60 ROTARY NEWS OCTOBER 2013

of benches and desks to underprivileged children in the government school across Andhra Pradesh. It might seem like a regular Rotary act on the surface but beneath is a deep analysis on how to make coming to school a happy and

easy experience rather than a struggle against broken furniture and unhygienic class rooms. The desks although lifeless are going to be the facets of knowledge being imparted to children. Knowledge is incomparable and so is the effort of

the Rotary Club of Guntur and 21 other Rotary clubs in the district who have contributed towards this noble project with their big hearts and warm smiles, making the government school class rooms a better place to study. The cost of a single desk is US $37 but yet a priceless gift for the children who were sitting down on the floor to do their daily learning. If coming to school was made easy, classrooms made more comfortable and hygiene issues addressed in a proper manner no child would stay away from school and this would add to the joy of the parents as well. Rotarians thus pledged a total

literacy mission at District 3150 under the Chairmanship of PDG Dr. Ravi Vadlamani. As always Rotary has taken into its hands a stone that needs to be polished constantly to transform into a diamond. The polishing has begun and this is like the tiny rain drops that will become an ocean soon. Currently over two million students have been made comfortable with over 60,000 school furniture having been distributed across Andhra Pradesh. The mission to make South Asia Totally Literate by 2017 has tough maneuvers. Each Rotary club involved in the mission will participate in school

adoption programmes which will enhance on aspects of responsibility and development. The pursuit of literacy will also incorporate supply of clean drinking water and healthy, infrastructural restoration, distribution of school furniture and equipments; to enhance the learning experience of children, libraries and computers will be installed within the premises of each school. Hygiene will sustain its priority and will be addressed apace other issues. Distribution of uniforms, books and scholarship for the deserving will add to the joy of coming to school. A special teachers training programme will also be a highlight of the mission. The speedometer of literacy development will point to the maximum reading while the stability and continuity of the mission will be kept intact. There are numerous other features that would be on the to-do list of each Rotary club and Rotarian involved in this gigantic mission and everybody knows that the world of Rotary is rich with tales of colossal achievements. The conquest of Total Literacy has begun and as each phase begins to unfold new challenges, the soldiers of Rotary will continue to defend the world with their armour of love, peace and care. Kiran Zehra

OCTOBER 2013

ROTARY NEWS 61

ROTARY ACTS

FINAL Destination Passion for service touches a new height as the Rotarians of three Rotary clubs of RI District 3020 facilitated the construction of a classy crematorium at Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh.

he last resting place for man need not be an unkempt, dirty piece of ground. Not that his mortal remains are going to mind that, but it is important that his survivors feel satisfied that they have given a fitting tribute to him; that his soul rests in peace in a pleasing ambience. This was what motivated the Rotarians of RI District 3020 to build a beautiful crematorium with all modern amenities at Kakinada. Kakinada which is the headquarters of East Godavari district, is one of the largest cities in Andhra Pradesh and is nicknamed â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Fertiliser Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; owing to the large concentration of fertiliser plants here. The

Sprawling campus of Layasthanam.

62 ROTARY NEWS OCTOBER 2013

city has a deep water port and is the second largest in the state after the Visakhapatnam port. It is the hub of the world’s largest discovery of national gas in the Krishna Godavari basin, being extracted by the Reliance Industries. For the food connoisseurs, the unique Kakinada Kaaja is a sure treat for the sweet tooth. The Rotarians of Kakinada are an active group avid about making lives comfortable for the society. A sober visit to pay the last tributes to a lost friend by Rtn. Lakkaraju Satyanarain resulted in the birth of ‘Layasthanam’ — a striking garden of peace for the departed soul. The place was a pathetic excuse for a cremation

ground filled with filth, stagnant dirty water flowing in from the drains of the surrounding area, unbearable stench and inhabited with hordes of pigs. Facilities for performing the last rites were totally non-existent. It was always with a heavy heart the citizens of the area would give a send-off for their dead relative at such a woeful place. Rtn. Satyanarain thus woke his fellow Rotarians to the dismal condition of the cremation ground. Subsequently, three Rotary clubs: RC Kakinada, RC Kakinada Central and RC Kakinada Golden Jubilee got together to bring out a colossal transformation that has not only brought great satisfaction to the community but it has also established the public image of Rotary far and wide across the city which has a population of over five lakhs. The Kakinada Rotary Burial Ground Development and Maintenance Trust was formed for this purpose. The state government officials also gave a nod to this project and the Municipal Corporation lent its full support for the project. The Minister for HRD, Dr. M.M. Pallam Raju, MP, an honorary member of RC Kakinada and Shri. Chandrasekhara Reddy, MLA, a member of RC Kakinada Central were also instrumental in the successful completion of the project. With the Rotarians dedicating their time, energy and money head-on, the new crematorium got a pride of the place. It was dedicated to the people of Kakinada on March 29, 2013. The dream project cost Rs.1.75 crores. With contribution of Rs.50 lakhs from Mr. C.V. Raju, Free Mason and a past Rotarian from Coimbatore with his roots in Kakinada, a gas-based crematorium also has been established at the premises, which will help protect ecology. The Rotarians have given substantial importance to greenery, which has resulted in a sprawling spread of one of the best gardens

in the city. Due thought has gone in with the provision of a sprinkler system for watering the plants. A towering statue of Lord Shiva instils a sense of calm and serenity to the place. Four manual pyre platforms for traditional cremation and an area of 2.5 acre of land for those who believe in burial are also part of the campus. A visitors’ gallery, a place to perform the rituals, shower rooms and an office room complete the campus establishment. An icebox facility for the overnight preservation of the body where relatives have to arrive from far off places to take part in the last rites and about 240 lockers to store the ashes so that they may be immersed at various holy rivers according to the family’s customs are also included. An ambulance with a 24-hour service is also provided to transport the dead person to the crematorium. While it runs free for the poor, the services are offered at a nominal cost for the others. Free cremations and burials are also undertaken for the orphan bodies found abandoned on the streets or at the General Hospital. The trust has cremated 60 such dead bodies since the crematorium became functional. The perseverance and compassion of the Rotarians thus saw the transformation of a virtual dump yard into a serene and exceptional last post for the dead. Rotarians realise the full impact of Rotary in times such as this where the organisation gives enormous opportunities to serve the world in unimaginable modes. Rotary is the catalyst, the transformer that motivates and inspires people for such selfless service and the Rotarians are the effective messengers who brighten the lives of the downtrodden and build a warm heart in people to develop noble qualities. Jaishree OCTOBER 2013

ROTARY NEWS 63

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GRAMMAR GURU Not Only … But Also was a popular BBC TV serial in the 1960s. The show was originally intended for Moore and called Not Only Moore But Also His Guests. However, unsure of going it alone, Moore invited his friend, Peter Cook, as a guest in the first episode. So popular was the double act that Cook became a permanent fixture and the show became Not only Peter Cook and Dudley Moore But Also their Guests, though it was only ever really referred to as Not Only But Also. Well, not only do most of us love using the structure ‘Not only ... but also,’ but we also keep making mistakes all the time! In fact even advertisers use this. A bank’s advertisement reads like this: Now not only send but also receive money through internet banking. A health update ran thus: Low calorie diet not only helps to lose weight but also significantly enhances immunity. Is there any rule to save us from disaster? Grammar tip of the day says: “In the not only… but also construction the two items connected must be similar in kind.” In other words, each part of these co-ordinate conjunctions should be followed by the same part of speech or the same type of phrase. For example, ‘He not only painted the Annunciation, but also the Mona Lisa.’ (Wrong) ‘He painted not only the Annunciation, but also the Mona Lisa.’ (Correct) Problems arise when we are not sure where to position these conjunctions. Michael Swan offers some guidelines: • Generally they are placed before the words they modify. We go there not only in winter but also in summer. • Mid position with the verb is also possible. She not only sings like an angel, but also dances divinely. • ‘Not only’ can be moved to the beginning of a clause for emphasis. It is then followed by the auxiliary verb + subject. ‘Do’ is used if there is no other auxiliary. Not only has she been late three times, she has also done no work.

•

Here are some classic mistakes and explanations as to why they are considered to be wrong. Not only did he like mangoes but also apples. This is wrong because ‘not only’ refers to the verb ‘did’ ‘like’ whereas ‘but also’ refers to ‘apples.’ Correct form: He liked not only oranges, but also apples.

•

Not only did we have trouble in finding our luggage, but we also could not get a porter. There is wrong inversion here. Correct form: We had trouble not only in finding our luggage, but also in finding a porter. Not only did he come to see us, but he also brought two friends. The mistake here lies in the fact that the ideas to the connected are not ‘He came’ and ‘He brought his friends,’ but ‘He came himself’ and ‘He brought his friends also.’ Correct form: He not only came himself to see us, but he also brought his friends.

If you still feel confused, it is better to avoid this structure and use synonyms instead. In fact, in informal speech, this structure is not common. Here are some alternatives: •

... in addition to … “Remember,” said the teacher, “You can’t all be first. Even great men have had to be second themselves.” Then what about George Washington? He was the first American President. In addition, he was the first in war; first in peace; and first in the heart of all Americans. “No doubt,” smiled the teacher, “but he married a widow!”

•

... as well as ... Two small kids walked confidently into a chemist’s shop and asked for sanitary napkins. “Whatever do you need them for?” asked the chemist. “Oh, don’t you know,” said the kids, “it said on the TV that if you used them, you could swim, skate, ride a bicycle, as well as do a lot of other things!”

•

But ... what’s more ... A gentleman was protesting loudly to the flight attendant. “I want to complain about this airline,” he grumbled. “Every time I fly, I get the same seat. But what’s more, there are no window blinds, so I can’t sleep.” “Aw captain,” said the flight attendant, “Just shut up and land the plane!” Dr. V. Saraswathi, Vice President, English Language Teachers’ Association of India, Reproduced with permission from Education Times, The Times of India, Chennai.

FOCUS RC QUILON LOTUS RI District 3211 The club distributed sewing machines to economically deprived women with a view to help them undertake a vocation to support their family and day to day needs. This would improve their selfconfidence and self-esteem too.

RC TINNEVELLY RI District 3212 Notebooks were distributed to 300 students at 12 schools by the club. This project aimed at lending a helping hand to students from poor and underprivileged part of the society and helps them pursue education without dropping out of school. 66 ROTARY NEWS OCTOBER 2013

RC VANDAVASI RI District 3230 A medical camp was conducted by the club in the region. Patients were examined and provided related medicines. To ensure greater coverage, the club plans to conduct such camps at all the wards of the municipality on turns on a monthly basis.

RC GREATER TEZPUR RI District 3240 The club donated rice, lentils, wheat flour and soya meal to an old age home â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Apon Gharâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; at Jakhalabandha near Tezpur. The inmates were given lectures on how to keep themselves healthy and cheerful.

RC RANCHI RI District 3250 Shoes were distributed among poor students of the Rotary School, Ranchi and ceiling fans were also donated by the club to the school. The gift of shoes will now help the children walk to school with ease.

RC SAMBALPUR WEST RI District 3261 A mega health camp was organised by the club. Doctors from various disciplines addressed the health issues of 300 patients who benefitted from the camp.

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RC CALCUTTA MID SOUTH RI District 3291 The club donated medicines to a dispensary. This would enable the financially weak sections of the society access to more medicines they require at no cost at all.

RC BUTWAL RI District 3292 The club conducted six months training programme in electronics at the Skill Development Training Centre in Butwal. This would enable the youngsters to engage themselves in incomegenerating activities.

RC HOSUR RI District 2980 The club organised an eye camp which is an ongoing project of the club. The camp included eye testing and cataract surgeries of poor patients.

RC PERIYAKULAM RI District 3000 As part of literacy promotion, the club donated benches and desks to Sankara Narayan Middle School at Vadugapaty village. The children will now be able to sit on the benches and take down notes comfortably. 68 ROTARY NEWS OCTOBER 2013

RC RAJAHMUNDRY RIVER CITY RI District 3020 The club along with RC Sarasota Bay, RI District 6960, USA and TRF constructed a bore well at Rajanagaram village. It would benefit 25,000 villagers in and around the region by providing water for drinking and farming.

RC AKOLA RI District 3030 A RYLA event â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Nature Study Campâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; was organised for low income group children at Melghat forest in Maharashtra. The camp included trekking, hill climbing, bird watching and campfire. The event benefitted more than 50 participants.

RC BIKANER MARUDHARA RI District 3053 The Rotarians pooled in and donated cash towards the Uttrakhand Relief Fund. This money would help the flood victims at the hill town to overcome their difficulties to an extent

RC SURAT EAST RI District 3060 The Rotarians distributed food grain packets and dictionaries to 600 students at the Surat Municipal Corporation School. This service of the club would instill interest in the students to attend school regularly. OCTOBER 2013

ROTARY NEWS 69

RC LUDHIANA CITY RI District 3070 The club organised a medical camp to address the various ailments of the people in and around Ludhiana. Related tests to screen for blood pressure, diabetes and cardiac ailments were also facilitated.

RC ROORKEE RI District 3080 â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Rotary Silai Kendraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; a vocational training institute for women was inaugurated by the club at the village of Dada Jalalpur. Sewing skills will be imparted to the girls in the area.

RC RAJPURA RI District 3090 A dental camp was organised by the club. Over 100 patients were examined and free medicines along with tooth paste and tooth brushes were also provided to the patients. Significance of maintaining oral hygiene was highlighted to the visitors.

RC PUNE SHIVAJINAGAR RI District 3131 Spectacles were distributed to the inmates of the Yerwada Jail. This project showcases the humanitarian side of the club that is lending hands to help prisoners lead a better life.

70 ROTARY NEWS OCTOBER 2013

RC MUMBAI GHATKOPAR RI District 3140 Solar powered street lights were set up at Talwada village near Shahpur by the club in order to overcome the difficulty of travel. LED lamps and mobile charging points were also provided to the 54 houses of the same village.

RC WARANGAL RI District 3150 Notebooks, text books, ceiling fans and tube lights were distributed at various schools in the district to make the classroom atmosphere brighter and better for the students. Scholarships were also presented to meritorious students.

RC GUNTAKAL RI District 3160 Clothes and fruits were distributed to mentally Challenged people, residing at the Nirmal Hriday Destitute Home at Chuch, Guntakal. This act of the Rotarians would enhance their health and dignity.

RC SANGLI RI District 3170 Physically challenged people received a sigh of relief by the clubs act of donating Jaipur foot. The artificial foot will help them to commute with ease from one place to another.

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HEALTH WATCH

Different kinds of

VEGETARIANS Which category do you belong to?

here are vegetarians and vegetarians in the world. But depending on the foods you include or exclude in your diet, there are ways of classifying the kind of vegetarian that you are. Vegetarianism is commonly understood as diets that encourage the inclusion of plants and plant based products and exclude the consumption of animal flesh of any sort. However, with time vegetarianism has evolved to become a concept, which is pursued and practiced according to individual preferences of nutrition as well as tastes. Vegetarianism has thus evolved to contain several branches or different types of vegetarians. TYPES OF VEGETARIANS I eat no meat but take eggs. Can I call myself a vegetarian? I love vegetarian cuisine but cannot give up chicken tikka. What am I? My diet is all vegetarian except for fish. What do I call myself? There is a specific name for people who include eggs, eggs and dairy. Read on to find out which type of vegetarian you are: • Vegans: Strict vegetarians who do not eat meat of any kind, eggs, dairy products, or even do not consume processed foods containing any animalderived ingredients such as gelatin are termed as vegans. There also includes a subset of vegans who call themselves as ‘raw vegans’ who only consume unprocessed vegan foods. • Fruitarians: Some people have carried the concept of vegetarianism to an extreme where they only eat fresh fruits, these people are called fruitarians.

72 ROTARY NEWS OCTOBER 2013

• Lacto-ovo Vegetarians: Vegetarians who do not eat pork, beef, poultry, fish, or animal flesh of any kind, but do consume eggs and dairy products are called lacto-ovo vegetarians. This is a common type of vegetarian in India. • Lacto Vegetarians: Vegetarians who do not eat any type of animal meat or even poultry and eggs but take milk and curd are called lacto vegetarians. This is probably the commonest kind of vegetarianism in India. • Ovo Vegetarians: Vegetarians who do not eat any kind of animal flesh or meat, and do not even consume milk, but eat eggs are called ovo vegetarians. • Pescatarian: Pescatarians are those who refrain from eating all types of meat with the exception of fish. Usually this type of diet is observed because of the nutritional requirements fulfilled by fish. • Flexitarians: Flexitarians are those who mostly stick to a vegetarian diet but occasionally eat meat. • Pollo-Vegetarians: People who eat poultry, such as chicken, turkey and duck but no other type of animal flesh and meat and the regular vegetarian ingredients are termed as pollo-vegetarians. FACTORS THAT RESULT IN DIFFERENT TYPES OF VEGETARIANS Vegetarianism is accepted and practised by a majority of people, but each one has his or her own way of practising it. Some of the important factors that decide the types of vegetarians are: Vegetarianism for better health Doctors, dieticians and several health specialists are increasingly advocating the health benefits of

vegetarianism. Owing to the increased awareness about health concerns associated with the nonvegetarian diet and health benefits of a vegetarian diet, a large number of people have switched to vegetarianism for health reasons. Vegetarianism offers lower cholesterol levels, lower risks of heart diseases, cancer and higher life expectancy, which seems a smarter and healthier way of life for many people. Vegetarianism to save animals Many of the people think it is cruel or inhuman for human beings to slaughter animals for their nutrition when vegetarian options are available. Thus people who believe in animal rights are vegetarians owing to their concern about animals. There exist several animal rights organisations that are constantly promoting the benefits of the vegetarian diet and educating human beings about the ruthless practices carried out in slaughterhouses where animals are massacred on a large scale. Vegetarianism for religious beliefs Many people practice vegetarianism owing to their religious beliefs. There are some religions, which do not allow their practitioners to consume non-vegetarian food and encourage consumption of vegetarian food. Many Hindus tend to be vegetarians. Jainism is a religion commonly practised in India that prescribes a vegetarian diet. Nor does it allow the killing of animals. Source: The Indian Vegetarian Congress Quarterly

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CULTURE

Richly adorned sanctum tower.

74 ROTARY NEWS OCTOBER 2013

The attributes Lord Shiva represents can be endless. Here his form as Veerattaneshwar at Thiruvadhigai celebrates him as a victorious warrior having vanquished three demons commemorating the episode as Thripurasamhara.

or millennia, Lord Shiva has been celebrated in India through philosophy, rituals, culture and literature; primordial, smeared with ashes, wrapped in animal hide and with matted hair, he enjoys the status of a rockstar, a superhero for the younger generation who celebrate him as the ‘Dude of Gods! For a devout Saivite, Lord Shiva represents the nirguna-nirakara — without attributes, without form; he is the Supreme Being who is time, space and consciousness. Yet he is believed to have 1,008 manifestations, each one potent and iconic. As Sathyam, Shivam, Sundaram, he is an embodiment of truth, transcendence and beauty. He is the ultimate guru (Dakshinamurti) who taught the two predominant realities of existence — the purusha (the cosmic spirit that stands still) and the prakriti (the cosmic substance which is always in a state of flux); he is the preceptor of yoga (Adinatha); he is the dissolver of time as Mahakaal; he is Gangadhara, the bearer of the mighty Ganga; he is the epitome of Indian aesthetics as Nataraja, the cosmic dancer creating the life-giving rhythm of the universe. His significant forms are widely celebrated across the country as the Jyotirlingas. Yet another interesting form is the mythological representation of Lord Shiva as a warrior, in the puranas. To this effect, there are eight temples in South India that are associated with the strength and greatness of Lord Shiva. These temples are collectively called the Ashta Veeratta Sthalas.

These temples were established to commemorate Lord Shiva’s victory over a demon. The Veerattaneshwar temple at a tiny hamlet called Thiruvadhigai near Panruti in Cuddalore district of Tamil Nadu is one among the eight Veeratta Sthalas and is located on the banks of River Gedilam. The legend is referred to as ‘Thripurasamhara,’ where Lord Shiva is believed to have destroyed the three forts of the demons, Tharakaksha, Kamalaksha and Vidyunmali. The temple is rich in architectural grandeur and several invaluable antique sculptures commissioned by the past historic rulers of the land.

Legend The rakshasa, Tarakasura had three sons, Tharakaksha, Kamalaksha and Vidyunmali. By virtue of their rigourous penance, they obtained a boon from Brahma, the creator that they would not be conquered by anyone unless their impregnable forts are destroyed simultaneously. Consequently each of them built a fort made of gold, silver and copper and floated on it all through the three worlds. They wreaked havoc on the three worlds. The Devas sought the help of Lord Shiva, imploring him to put an end to the harassment by the asuras and save them. Heeding to their distress call, Shiva set out to destroy the demons. Lord Shiva made the earth as his chariot. Brahma offered to be the charioteer; the four Vedas as the horses and the Sun and the Moon were the wheels. He created a bow from the Meru Mountains and Vasuki, the celestial serpent

as the bow-string. Lord Vishnu became his arrow and Agni, the God of Fire became the arrow’s blazing tip. With the roles played by the participants, each one of them grew proud that it is only because of them the battle is happening. Lord Shiva realised their misplaced ego. His serene face broke out into an all-knowing smile and out of his smile emerged a huge ball of fire that pierced through the three forts of the asuras simultaneously, reducing them to ashes instantly. Repenting for their sins, the dying demons sought for forgiveness from the Lord. The compassionate Lord Shiva forgave them for their sins. He revived them and made Tharakaksha and Vidyunmali as the guardians of his sanctum while Kamalaksha was assigned the role of playing the pancha mukha musical instrument. It is based on this episode the place acquired the name, ‘Thripuravadhigai’ meaning the holy spot where Lord Shiva burnt down the Thripurandakas or the three forts. With passage of time, it came to be referred to as ‘Thiruvadhigai.’ This enactment of Lord Shiva not just conquered the demons, but it is about conquering the three vices — ego, karma and illusion of the Devas. This legend thus instils in us the message that we humans have to overcome these vices to receive divine grace and attain salvation.

The temple Lord Shiva is considered to have been self-manifested in lingam form at the spot where the temple stands today. Panruti where the Veerattaneshwar OCTOBER 2013

ROTARY NEWS 75

temple is located is today a busy commercial centre in Cuddalore district. It is famous for its jack fruits and cashews which are exported to several countries. Panruti is an ancient region which had the footfalls of great Saivite and Vaishnavite saints. The Veerattaneshwar temple is spread out in about seven acres of land and is over 2,000 years old. The spot where the temple is located is believed to be the very place where the Thripurasamhara had been enacted. The main deity is thus Veerattaneshwar depicted by a huge 16-faced Shivlinga and is considered to have been installed in the 6th century A.D. The temple belongs to the Pallava period and it follows a Dravidian style of architecture. The temple is believed to have served as an inspiration for the great king Raja Raja Chola for modelling the marvellous Brihadeeshwar temple at Thanjavur. To mark the episode of Lord Shiva’s battle from the grand chariot, the entire central shrine of the temple has been designed like a chariot, which is again the first of its kind. The temple was originally built as a Jain temple by the Pallava king, Mahendravarman I. However, on his conversion from Jainism to Hinduism, he demolished the temple and built this Shiva temple in its place. A few Jain artefacts unearthed from around the region stands as evidence to this legend. The king has the reputation of introducing the installation of the dwarapalakas (celestial sentinels) outside the sanctum. Later kings including the Cheras, Cholas, Pandyas, Vijayanagara and Nayak rulers have also made additions to the temple and today this temple stands as a remarkable monument announcing the richness and grandeur of the bygone era. The main temple tower is an impressive seven-tiered structure filled with stucco figures of divine idols. The 108 karanas (dance postures) of Shiva is depicted with great flair at the entrance. This also includes the Thripurasamhara 76 ROTARY NEWS OCTOBER 2013

thandava sculpted brilliantly. Equally interesting is the 16 pillared hall called the Thiruneetru Mandap. The temple has three concentric precincts. The outermost circumambulatory path has the Vasantha Mandap and the holy pond, Sula Theerth. At the entrance to the pond are images of three of the 63 Nayanmars (Saivite saint-poets) — Appar, Sundarar and Thirugnana Sambandhar. Shrines for Ganesha, Karthik and of other gods and the flag post are also present in this prakara. A five feet tall statue of a Jain thirthankara, and a Shivling with the face of Lord Shiva on it are other intriguing features found at this temple. The Veerattaneshwar Sabha houses the bronze images of Thripuranthaka murthi, depicted in a standing posture with a bow in his hand and accompanied by Goddess Thripurasundari. Designed to perfection, a stone carving of Thripuranthaka can be seen with four pairs of arms, each arm holding a weapon including the bow and arrow and the conch and discus of Lord Vishnu; Brahma as the charioteer and the four Vedas as the horses of the chariot. The sculpture of Gajasamharamurthi is another classic work where the Lord is seen adorned in elephant’s skin as he dances over the head of the elephant, Gajasura; the extraordinary Panchamukha linga with four faces in the four cardinal directions and the fifth (Athomukham) facing upwards can also be worshipped here. Images of Ravana lifting Mount Kailash with Lord Shiva and Parvati seated atop the mountain, Sarabeshwara, a form of Lord Shiva, a fusion of man, eagle and lion — the deity is believed to have relieved the Devas from the fury of Lord Vishnu in his incarnation as Narasimha after he slayed Hiranyakasibu; the deity is a beautifully sculpture depicted as half-bird half-beast with his feet pinning down Narasimha. Entering the second circumambulatory path through a five-tier gopuram, one can get to worship a huge

Nandhi facing the sanctum of Lord Veerattaneshwara. The vimana of the sanctum is a bewitching structure standing tall at a height of a 100 feet and the base spread over 100 sq.m. with colourful and elegant stucco idols adorning the entire body. Shrines for Gangadhara, Bhikshadana, Nataraja, Urdhuvathandavamurthy and Kali are present here in this prakara. Images atop the Nataraja’s shrine are admirable. The Ananda Thandava dance pose of Lord Shiva being witnessed by his consort, Goddess Sivagamasundari, and sages Pathanjali and Vyagrapatha is worth mentioning. Across the Mahamandap, the sanctum holds the shrine of the presiding deity, Lord Veerattaneshwar depicted as a huge linga. This Shivlinga is the suyambu (self-manifested) linga and it is called Tharalinga. According to the Puranas, the Shivlinga had appeared before Lord Vishnu as a result of a severe penance he had undertaken

in his form as the beautiful damsel, Mohini. It is said that this Shivalinga is what is installed at the sanctum of the Veerattaneshwar temple. The idol which is 6 feet tall has 16 stripes referred to as 16 faces. The Lord’s consort, referred to as Periyanayaki or Thripurasundari is present at a separate shrine near the sanctum. The statues of the 63 devout Nayanmars can be seen around the sanctum. Sculptures and stucco figures abound the temple and anyone with an eye for beauty would certainly appreciate the creativity and perfection that has gone into their creation and that too in an era which would not have had the sophisticated machinery that we are so used to today. Three of the Nayanmars — Thirunavukarasar, Thirugnana Sambandhar and Sundarar — have eulogised Shiva and have sung hymns in praise of him at this temple. In fact, the first Thevaram hymn sung

Entrance to Lord Veerattaneshwar temple. Inset: Utsav murti of Lord Thripurantaka and Goddess Thripurasundari.

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ROTARY NEWS 77

A view from inside the temple.

by Thirunavukarasar is said to have originated from this temple. There is an interesting episode attached to this saint-poet. Puranas say that Thirunavukarasar (Appar) shifted his faith from Saivism and embraced Jainism much to the regret of his sister, Thilakavati who was an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva. No amount of persuading could convince him to revert back to his religion. One day, Appar suffered from an acute stomach pain. The pain grew with each passing day and he could not find any remedy to cure his malady. With unbearable pain, he visited his sister who led him to the sanctum of Lord Shiva at the Veerattaneshwar temple after cleansing themselves in the temple pond. She chanted the Panchakshara — Na-Ma-Shi-Va-Yah and smeared the holy ash of Lord Shiva on the forehead of her brother. Surprisingly, the stomach ache that had caused so much suffering for Appar just vanished in seconds. Appar spontaneously poured 78 ROTARY NEWS OCTOBER 2013

out hymns praising the greatness of the Lord. The episode transformed his spiritual outlook, making him an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva. Pleased with his mastery over words and his linguistic prowess, Lord Shiva himself honoured the saint with the name, ‘Thirunavukarasar’ meaning ‘One who is the King of his tongue.’ Later the hymns were collectively called the Thevaram. To this day, devotees believe that a visit to this temple would cure them of their diseases, especially gastrointestinal ailments. Another saint who was blessed with a darshan of Lord Shiva at this temple was Thirugnana Sambandhar who was glorified by the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva. There are separate shrines within the temple precincts for these Saivite saints who through their bakthi attained salvation. The temple recently celebrated the kumbabhishekam (holy consecration) in June 2012 after completing the maintenance and renovation jobs.

Festivals Various festivals including Vasanthotsav, Brahmotsav, Mahashivratri and the monthly Pradoshams are observed with great devotion at the temple. A ten-day festival is celebrated for Appar-Thirunavukkarasar. The Thripurasamhara festival is observed for ten days in the Tamil month of Vaikasi (May-June). The Thripurantaka murti is taken on a procession on a richly decorated chariot across the town. The three forts made of dried coconut fronds are set on fire to mark the legend and the deity returns to the temple with great fanfare. The birthdays of the prominent three saints are also observed religiously at the temple. The temple attracts a huge crowd of devotees on full moon day every month. People are of the belief that worshipping Lord Veerattaneshwar and Goddess Periyanayaki at the sanctums and circumambulating the temple precincts 16 times is equivalent to performing the traditional ‘Girivalam’

Shedding one’s ego and the related vices is the step in the right direction to attain Nirvana. Painting depicting the legend of the presiding deity.

(circumambulating the hill) and the sacred shrine of Lord Arunachaleshwar at Tiruvannamalai, one of the Pancha Bhootha Sthalas where Lord Shiva is venerated as Agni.

Saranarayana Perumal Temple Lord Vishnu, who served as the arrow for Lord Shiva in his battle to defeat the three demons, is referred to as Saranarayana Perumal and a temple for the deity is present here at Thiruvadhigai, to this effect. The Lord is seen with his consort Sridevi, referred to as Hemambujavalli here. Lord Vishnu is depicted in a sleeping posture and he is also called Sayana Narasimha. The Rotarians of Rotary Club of Panruti, RI District 2980 are an active group doing their bit for the welfare of the devotees visiting the temple. They contribute for the free meals scheme conducted by the temple. They also help in the proper maintenance of roads and the street lights in the Mada streets that surround the temple which

is extremely beneficial for the devotees who follow the rituals during the full moon days and the festival occasions. Similarly, the Rotarians of Rotary Club of Cuddalore Midtown also contribute towards the education of the underprivileged, a service undertaken by the temple. For art lovers and for those who understand the real value of ancient monuments and antiquity, the temple is a treasure house and would certainly offer a sumptuous feast for the eyes and the soul. For the devout, the Thiruvadhigai Veerattaneshwar temple is observed as a place which strips the person of his ego and arrogance; it is a common tradition at the temple that people apply the sacred ash on their forehead with their head bent towards the ground, symbolising humility. The priceless verses of Atma Shatkam, composed by Shri Adi Shankaracharya, come to mind as one visits this temple and hears about the legend associated with the place. The great master has

summarised in his teachings of Advaita Vedanta under Atma Shatkam that translates thus: “I am not the mind, nor intellect, nor ego, nor the reflections of inner self; I am not the five senses, I am not the ether, nor the earth, nor the fire, nor the wind. I am indeed, that eternal knowing and bliss, Shiva, love and pure consciousness.” (Mano Buddhi Ahankara Chitta Ninsham; Na Cha Shrotra Jihva Na Cha Ghrana Netre; Na Cha Vyoma Bhoomir Na Tejo Na Vayu; Chidananda Rupah Shivoham Shivoham). As one steps into the temple’s holy precincts, one is filled with such a consciousness that one becomes aware of Adi Shankaracharya’s preachings to mankind: Attachments, desire, pleasure and pain exist only when the mind functions. Shedding one’s ego and the related vices is the step in the right direction to attain Nirvana, that is, bliss, tranquility and peace with oneself. Jaishree OCTOBER 2013

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