The three- day Community Living Camp of the academic year 2007-08 of Govt. College of Teacher Education, Calicut, was held in February [13th to 15th] at Chalussery, Thrithala, Palakkad district, Kerala State. The main theme of the camp was ‘Education and Social Change’. One of the objectives of the camp was “to enquire the legacy of a community- its cultural, social, scientific, educational and environmental aspects. Given below is a report submitted by the English optional students after their field study . The five areas of study for which reports were submitted are :
1. Colony Settlement
2. Environmental issues related to Nila
3. Pakkanar Family
4. Nattarivukal and Medication
5. Ayurveda : A Way of Life
The names of the trainees who took part in the field study and contributed to the writing of the report follows each topic
Ps. The reports were submitted as assignments. On receiving the assignments, I corrected them and made slight changes to make it readable for a global audience.
1. Colony Settlement
Introduction
Colonies are a common phenomena through out the world. Each colony is distinct in its own ways. This distinction comes from the unique life style of the people. There has been a number of studies carried out in this field.
A detailed study conducted in two colonies, Koolath Colony and Kunnatheri colony at Chalisseri in Palakkad district brought forth valuable information about colony settlements.
Infrastructure
These colonies together comprise 42 houses, which are roofed with tiles. Some of them are thatched too. All the houses are electrified. In addition to that they have water, telephone and transport facilities. They are acutely conscious of maintaining a clean environment . The Panchyat authorities and some clubs functioning within the colony, work hand in hand for the progress of the colony.
Educational background
The old generation residing in the colony are illiterate but are eager to give the new generation what they have missed out in life. Hence education for the new generation is a top priority for the elders. One of the clubs named ‘Punchiri’ conducts coaching classes for colony members, for various Public examinations. A number of them get through these exams. There is an ‘Anganvadi’ running in the colony which attends to matters of health and pre-schooling education of children of the colony .
Economic status
Economically, the families are not well off and is mostly below average. Most of the people are coolies or daily wage workers. Some women of the colony work in small scale industries. Private vehicles and fashionable life style is simply beyond their reach..
Health condition
The health condition of the colonists is satisfactory even though the houses are placed closely. Their attention to cleanliness have s kept them free from epidemics. Hospitals are not located near .But medical camps are conducted periodically under the leadership of various clubs.
Social customs
No special customs are observed in these colonies except Samadhi. Samadhi is burying the dead bodies in the yard itself. They set up a monument on the burial ground and every evening they light lamps near the monument.
Life Style
They lead a simple life, people believing in different religious faiths live together harmoniously. There appeared a healthy cooperation between neighbours.
Conclusion
Their life is a typical example of simplicity and secularism. They make us think that in this competitive world, there are some others who lead calm and satisfying life despite many . Besides the acute consciousness about cleanliness , there is quite a lit of things that city dwellers can learn from them .If there is one lesson we can learn from them it is this : ‘unity is strength’.
[Submitted by Ameer Ali, Roshin Mathew & Shameera K.M]
2. Environmental issues related to Nila
Where is the Nila that gushed along its path in its full glory and power?What happened to Nila , the cradle of cultures, the reservoir from which writers drew inspiration? What led to the ‘near-death’ state of Nila and what are its after effects- that was our mission when we set out to the banks of the once longest river in Kerala.
One glance at the docile body of water not even capable of flowing properly told us the sweeping , swirling Nila has become a thing of the past-immortalized in some old Malayalam films. As we let our eyes span the river we saw a well-like structure leaning precariously to one side. We were told that the well was constructed as a Pump House and that the well started leaning as a result of sand mining which was rampant in that area.
In the opinion of the local people, the demise of Nila started with the construction of Malampuzha dam, which resulted in the depositing of vast amounts of silt on the banks of Nila. Soon disappeared the vast banks which were glorious stretches of pristine white sand. Instead, the banks were filled with needle like thick shrubs. Gone were the playgrounds, the meeting place of friends… While this affected the strength of bonds between the people, a much more serious issue was looming up viz; water scarcity, a thing unheard of in the past.
Where as Nila flooded the roads during the rainy season before, even the heaviest of monsoon now fails to quench the thirst of Nila herself, let alone wet her banks. Wells dry up and people run about for water by the middle of February just as summer sets in . The people who came to talk to us kept looking at Nila with nostalgia in their eyes and we could almost feel their grief.
Sand mining, a necessary evil as described by the elderly people whom we met, has been gnawing at the very soul of Nila. The banks of Nila disappear faster than ever and Nila is sinking deeper and deeper as if it is trying to move as far away from the lives of people as possible. This changed the bio-diversity of Nila and the surroundings. Earlier there were many varieties of migrating birds during the season, but now they see only cranes .Fish wealth has also decreased drastically.
The people seemed resigned to the evils of sand mining which, prompted us to ask about laws against it. We learned that ineffective laws and a strong mining mafia together with the support of a few locals who make a livelihood from this has made sand mining a necessary evil.
With the choice of the lesser evil heavy on our minds, we left the banks of Nila, a tigress trying hard to retain the vestiges of its old glory, refusing to succumb to the powers trying to destroy her.
[Submitted by Neetha, Sajna & Sindhu ]
3. Pakkanar Family
‘Parayi Petta Panthirukulam’ is one of the famous legends of Kerala. The story goes a Brahmin of the upper caste named Vararuchin married a a ‘paraya’(1) girl , panjami. Out of her husband’s compulsion, Panjami abandons their eleven children. Vaacuchi’s argument was that the children will be fed by the same God who has given mouth to them. The last child was mouthless and was idolized by his parents. That idol came to be know as Vayillakunnilappan. The abandoned children were Melathol Agnihothri, Perunthachan, Pakkanar, Pananar, Rajakan , Uppudootan, Vallon, Naranath Bhranthan, Akavoor Chathan, Vaduthala Nair and Karakkalamma. They were brought up by different people in different parts of Kerala.
Pakkanar lived at Eerathingal in Pallakkad district. Now seventeen families of Pakkanar’s descendants reside around Pakkanar Temple at Eerattingal. Though their traditional occupations were veterinary and sift plaiting, now only a very few old women are engaged in sift plaiting. As usual, the new generation is engaged in white collar jobs. The ‘mana’(2) of Melathol Agnihothri, the elder brother of panthirukulam is near pakkanar’s residence. The intimacy which existed in the past between the two families is seen to be ruptured.
“Pakkanar Thottam’ is a popular festival of panthirukulam(3) and it is celebrated in alternate years in the month of Kumbham.(February –March) All the descendants of panthrikulam except Vayillakunnilappan participate in this festival. Five performances known as ‘peedam’ are staged by the accompaniment of instruments like drum, horn etc. Only these art forms were present earlier. But today we have the modified form of pakkanar Thottam including drama, concert and elephant show. The festival is now deeed to be a part of the cultural heritage of Kerala
We found that all arrangements have been done for celebrating Pakkaner Thottam commencing on 4th April 2008. Its expense is roughly Rs.2 lakh, and this expense is met from the income of Pakkanar Temple.
(1) Paraya: a lower caste
(2) Mana : former residence of upper castes
(3) Panthirukulam: family belonging to 12 members
[Submitted by Ayisha, Remadevi & Sangeetha]
4. Nattarivukal and Medication
When we consider ‘nattarivukal’ (1) and its convictions , it is believed that no plant in our premises is nugatory. Each and every plant is a herb and has got a medicinal value of its own. It thereby holds a very admirable position in our lives. Most of the chronic diseases, especially skin diseases can be cured by these local herbs. We can prepare ‘Kashayas’(2) and medicinal ghee out of its juices and extracts. In ancient times, we could procure herbs from forests but now the major problem we confront is the scarcity of herbs, for dense vegetation has vastly disappeared .
Some of the herbs found in our surroundings and its corresponding uses are listed below:
1. ‘Kattarvazha’ (Aloevera) can be sued as a good conditioner for hair and also as a pain killer.
2. ‘Somalatha’ an orchid like plant which uses little water, is very effective for skin diseases.
3. ‘Chittaratha’ (Alpinia Calcarata) is a good tranquilizer and earlier it was used in women’s post delivery treatments.
4. ‘Iruveli’ (Colius Vetiveroids) is good for fever.
5. ‘Adalodakam’ (Adathoda Vasica) can cure asthma.
6. ‘Chakkarakolli’ ( Jimnima Silvestra) can be useful for diabetic patients.
7. ‘Changalam paranda ‘ (Vitis Quadragularis) is good for bone and helps to rejoin broken bones.
Treatment based on ‘nattarivukal’ is now nearing its predicted end. It has many impediments in its path, like scarcity of herbs and lack of experts in the present generation. Allopathy has always turned its back on traditional treatments, christening it as unscientific. But if these extremities are brought under a scientific roof, it will bring about incredible revolutions in the field of Medicine.
(1) Nattarivukal: it is the knowledge that is transferred orally from one generation to another
(2) Kashaya : It is a medicinal syrup made out of herbal extracts
[Submitted by Ragini, Rakesh & Sreeja]
5. Ayurveda : A Way of Life
Ancient India had the blessed Vedas, and the present India gets rejuvenated by the spirit of the Vedas. Atharva Veda still makes its presence felt among the people in the form of Ayurveda.
Ayurveda is the compendium of two terms ‘ayur’ and ‘veda , rightly meaning knowledge of life. Ayurvedic treatment had flourished since time immemorial in Kerala and so it is one of the well sought after destinations of people all over the world .Over the years Ayurveda has to gained an envious status mainly because its treatment goes in close amity with nature.
A few pioneers in ayurvedic treatment in Palakkad district in Kerala are CNS Ayurvedasala, Raja Health Acres and Vaidyamadom. They treat incurable diseases like Alzhemers, Cancer etc. C.N.S Ayurvedasala for instance is credited with having cured the deplorable condition of ‘pollunna Unnikal’ ( a diseases which necessitates children to be soaked with water every hour owing to the failure of the functioning of sweat glands). Ancient Ayurvedic practitioners is believed to have performed complex surgeries too.
To keep pace with the changing scenario and for meet competition from other forms of treatment , most of the ayurvedic centres in Kerala offer treatments like Uzhichil Swedanam, Ksheerasanam, etc. Body massage is a common treatment common in all the ayurvedic clinics as it rejuvenates both body and mind. Most of the centres offer state of the art facilities . For instance Raja Health Acres comprises certain well furnished and air conditioned rooms something quite uncommon in normal ayurvedic clinics.
Treatment is based on place, time and state of the patient . Primal importance is given to body, mind and spirit respectively. Medicines are prepared strictly following the traditional prescriptions in ancient ayurvedic texts. Milk is called the nectar in ayurveda, as it is an essential ingredient of most medicines. Strict abstinence from eating certain food items is an inevitable part of the treatment.
In Kerala most of the hospitals have the facility to prepare and store medicines in underground cellars for years. And most of the hospitals, plant and tend the herbs they need in their own premises. Each hospital is credited with having state of the art libraries, where ancient and valuable books are preserved. In a way it is a traditionally followed treatment in which it is taught and transmitted from generation to generation.
It has been found that Ayurvedic treatment is unsuitable when the patient requires immediate attention owing to pain or discomfort . But the fact remains that Ayurveda is an appropriate treatment for the body and mind if given under the guidance of an adept doctor. Perhaps it greatest merit is that it can have no after effects as in allopathic medicines . This could be one reason why Ayurveda continues to be popular among many both in India and abroad.
[Submitted by Aiswarya, Roby, Samad & Vidya]
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Monday, March 10, 2008
1. Superstitions of Kerala
This Blog posting on Superstitions of Kerala was originally given as an assignment to the trainees of the English optional , Govt. College of Teacher Education, Calicut, to be completed and submitted by email immediately after the X’mas vacation 2007.
On submission, I had edited and classified them under three heads :
1. Gods and rituals
2. People and habits
3. Animals and birds
C. Praveen, Teacher Educator , Govt. CTE, Trivandrum
Note: * The name of the trainee who submitted the entry follows
each superstition.
* The trainees are also members of the English Club of the College.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
1. Gods and Rituals
* Effect of a goddess’ wrath
The belief, if you failed to worship Bhadrakal, [ the furious face of the Hindu goddess Durga] you would be cursed with smallpox had been prevalent in the ancient days. Negligence on the part of the devotee in performing rituals or worshipping the deity could spark the fury of the goddess. The wrathful goddess would then curse him/her with illness, so that the accursed learns a lesson .This belief prevailed for a long time and people even approached astrologers to perform some remedial rituals.
[ Sreeja T.S]
* Significance of going round the banyan tree in the temple premises
According to a Hindu belief, the lower part of the banyan tree is resided by Lord Brahma, the middle part, Lord Vishnu and the upper part, Lord Siva. One has to go around a Banyan tree seven times. Circling the tree at dawn brings recovery from diseases and luck to have children. It is also believed that going around the banyan tree will reduce the ill effects of Saturn on devotees.
The banyan tree has a special importance as it purifies the air in a temple. This concept has a scientific aspect too. Only two plants in the world have the ability to produce Ozone viz. Banyan tree and Basil. The Ozone produced by the Banyan tree, though it is in a very slight amount, improves health and refreshes the mind. That’s why people say that one should circle the Banyan tree when one visits a temple.
[Rakesh E.T]
* Pilgrims touching Priest and the Head Priest is forbidden
The Priest and the Head Priest are the ones that make ceremonial offerings to the deity, in temples. Their duty involves among other things , bathing the idol with perfumed sandal paste. Many come to the temple and it is often difficult to know any thing about the people who visit temples .Often people who don’t bathe and hence are unclean come too and by touching the Priest or the Head Priest while receiving offerings he/ she pollutes both the priest and the idol. Polluting and idol is considered inauspicious.
[Aiswarya Lakshmi]
* A ritual for family deities
Chavoot (1)1 is a custom that is still prevalent in South Kerala, especially in the districts of Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam. After the seasons of cultivation and harvest, it’s the right time for the head of the family to repose and then to perform ceremonies like Chavoot. Its conducted for the departed forefathers and also for the family deities (Paradaivangal)[2] like Madan, Marutha,Pey,Yogeshwaran
[3] and so forth. The eldest member of the family must choose a Friday or Tuesday for performing this rite. After dusk, one places a lamp and neranazhi [4] on the cow dung smeared courtyard of ones house. Thereafter bestows avil [5 ]mixture,
ada [6], bananas, jaggery and sugar upon a thooshanila [7 ]for each one of the deities separately. Toddy and liquor are also placed along with it. One then takes some water in a kindi [8] and by offering prayers, one sprinkles it over the offerings in the thooshanila. After ten minutes one shares these among the members of the family. It’s believed that if one performs this rite with due ceremony, the head as well as the entire members of the family along with its flora and fauna, will be redeemed from all miseries and misfortunes.
Foot notes:
*1Chavoot is the name of a ritual performed in Kerala for the deceased members and family deities.
*2 paradaivangal means family deities.
*3Madan, Marutha, Pey and Yogeswaran are family deities in Kerala .
*4neranazhi is a nazhi (measuring vessel in Kerala) full of rice or paddy.
*5avil is flattened rice.
*6ada is a kind of flour cake.
*7thooshanila is the end portion of a plantain leaf.
*8kindi is a brass water pot with a spout.
[ Sreeja T.S]
* Significance of the ‘Parayidal’ ritual
Most temples in Kerala observe a ritual known as ‘Parayidal’ as a part of their festival. The temple idol is mounted on an elephant and it visits neighbouring houses in a procession. The temple priest leads the procession. Various drums like Chenda, Maddalam etc. are played during the procession . Bursting crackers is an indispensable part of the procession.
Young maidens sweep the courtyard of the house and smears the surface with cow’s dung. After the cleaning of the courtyard they draw designs using rice flour. Such designs have been called as “Kolams”. A plantain leaf is placed on the “Kolam” and a lamp is lit along with offerings to the Hindu God, Ganesha.
When the temple idol arrives at the courtyard, a “Para”, which is a basin for measurement, filled with paddy is placed in front of the lamp. After liturgies the Brahmins offer paddy to the God . This religious ceremony comes to an end when the priest gets his ‘dakshina’ or token money for favours rendered. This ritual is observed to bring prosperity. It also helps to save one from evil resulting from ones star of birth.
[Rakesh E.T]
2. People and Habits
* Significance of drawing designs on the floor, every morning
In India, a few communities still follow the custom of drawing designs on the floor. It is an usual sight in the South Indian states of Karnataka and Tamilnadu. After sweeping the courtyard clean, the women take bath, apply vermilion on their forehead and draw the designs on the floor. Unmarried women also do the same. Usually the designs are not that of human beings and other objects. They draw designs in a swindling, up and down and criss-cross manner using dough rice. Some draw floral designs. After making the outline, they also puff it by adding green, red, blue and yellow powders. It is believed that these are for the opulence and goodness of their own residence.
[Aiswarya Lakshmi]
*Lighting lamp at dawn
It is an old age custom in Kerala. Early in the morning after taking bath, people light the lamp. They believe that this would bring home the goddess of wealth , Lakshmi. Some people chant the Harinama Keerthana at that time. They believe that doing so also make their mind pure and those living in the house will prosper.
[Ragini.K]
* Bathing to overcome evil ‘Kani’
It was an old belief practiced by Brahmins and the upper caste . When they set out on a journey or a new enterprise , if they happen to see the lower caste people on the way , it was considered an ill omen. So they temporarily delayed the trip, cleansed themselves by taking bath again continued the journey or venture.
It may be noted that the bath has little significance. What matters is the person seen first , or the kani when the journey commenced. The belief was that, if they took a bath again not only will the body become pure and energetic but also the blemishes of the kani will vanish.
For many Keralites kani is very important even today and it is reflected in the popular festival , Vishu.
[Ayisha .M]
*On wearing golden anklets
Gold is synonymous with Goddess Lakshmi (Goddess of Wealth). Elders believe that wearing gold on legs is a serious abuse. One can very well wear it on the neck, nose or ear. It adds to the beauty also. According to traditional health science, the constant rubbing of gold on the ‘vital nerve centre’ (Nagamarmmam) of legs may cause rheumatism. Hence wearing gold anklets on ones legs is discouraged.
[Roshan.T.Mathew ]
* Stepping on winnowing fan is forbidden
A winnowing fan is made of reed or sliced bamboo. It has four sides , and is flat. It is used to clean and separate corn or paddy from chaff. Food is sacred. Stepping on a winnowing fan in addition to showing disrespect to food makes it unclean. Elders consider stepping on a winnowing fan even by innocent children a sin.
[Ameer Ali Kaderi]
* Direction for sleeping
Elders often say that each direction has its own gods according to Vastu, the Indian Science of Architecture.
While sleeping, placing of head in the northern direction is forbidden as only the dead body is ever placed in the northern direction . Placing the head in the eastern, and southern direction is acceptable.
To some local scientists the earth’s magnetic circle which moving from the northern direction repulses the magnetic circle of the human body and results in hysteria.
[Roby Mathew ]
*The best way to rise from bed
It is considered best to rise from the bed by turning to the right side with folded palms. In addition to being auspicious doing so makes ones mind fresh. Often good deeds are performed with the right hand. Religious rites , sacrificial offerings, consumption of food etc. place importance for the right side.
[Ragini.K]
* Using the Grinding stone after dark is forbidden
Before mechanization women entirely depended on the grinding stone. Traditionally many abstain from grinding in the evening. This is because evening is the time of lighting lamps for worship. In addition , the noise that the grinding stone makes disturbs one who prays. It is also widely believed that evening is the time when the Goddess of wealth visits houses and the noise of a grinding machine might discomfort the Goddess.
Further, in olden days when there was no electricity , lamps were used to light the rooms and the grinding stone was usually placed near the kitchen . When it is dark one seldom notices lizards , ants or cockroaches . Some of these could be poisonous .
[Ameer Ali Kaderi]
*Effect of consuming stolen food
It is widely believed that consumption of stolen food causes hiccough. We know that consumption of hot and spicy food materials or eating rashly often results in hiccough. Children it has been observed eat delicious food items covertly. Then they consume in a reckless manner resulting in hiccough.
[Remadevi K.P]
* Fisherwoman and Sea relationship
Whenever the "Marakkan" (husband of a fisher woman) goes to sea for fishing his ‘Marakkathy’(wife) should sit in the hut offering prayer to God and the Sea Mother till his return. This is a traditional belief and custom among the fisher folk of Kerala. Failure to do so and indulging in flirting with men will cause the Sea Mother to become angry and She will drown the boat of the Marakkan.
[Sindhu.S]
* On Curses
Popular Indian mythology gives several instances of sufferings caused by the effect of curses by sages and celestial angels . To the people of Kerala, particularly the older generation , curses are bound to have its effect.
[Shameera K.M]
*On marrying ones own uncle’s daughter
Marrying ones Uncle’s daughter was an old custom in Kerala. The Uncle referred to here is the mother's brother. It was also believed that such a marriage will result in better family ties and a more cordial relationship. Further the family property wouldn’t diminish as dowry.
The practice is not very popular in Kerala now.
[Sindhu. S]
*The effect of the star ‘Chithira’
There is a wide spread belief that if any one is born under the sign of Chitira the fourteenth star in the lunar mansion , his /her house is sure to ruin and perish .This is attributed to the position of Sun and Mars in relation to the star Chitira.
Those born under this sign is sure to lose ones house and has to live in other houses. They however display strong opinions and dislike being advised by others. This results in quarrels.
The ruin of the Travancore Kings is attributed to the birth of a prince under the star, Chitira.
[Vidya P.M]
* Significance of displaying scarecrow
Hanging dummies in front of new buildings both completed and under construction is common in Kerala. It can also be seen in vegetable orchards. It is widely believed that the gaze or evil eyes of on-lookers are directed to it and not to the things around.
Scare crows also generate fear on thieves at night ! [Sangeetha Sukumaran]
*Consumption and the sin of killing
Some people justify the deed of killing animals . The logic is that to eat means to suffer and eating the animal is tantamount to suffering . That is. the sin of killing can be compensated only by eating!
[Roby Mathew]
*Significance of giving new Bridal Dress on the occasion of Marriage
Marriage is an auspicious occasion. Here a man accepts a woman as his life partner. It is the solemn duty of the man to protect the bride throughout his life, giving her everything she needs. By giving the new bridal dress, the groom solemnly and explicitly declares that he takes over all these responsibilities from that moment onwards. That is the importance and implication of the New Bridal Dress.
Dress is the most important thing for a woman in order to protect her chastity. So taking the New Bridal Dress from her life partner is a long cherished wish of every woman. That is also one reason why the married woman preserves the bridal attire till the end of her life.
[Roshan.T.Mathew ]
* On birth and rebirth
Hindus believe in rebirth. But rebirth is completely dependent on ones Karma (ie; deeds one does during ones life time). One is reborn a worm, a cockroach, a fly or other form depending on ones karma. Only one who performs good deeds ever gets to be reborn as a human being. Hence the emphasis on performing noble deeds during ones life on earth.
[Vidya P.M]
* Comparison : Dog and woman
To many, a dog that sleeps at night and a woman who sleeps during day are alike. Dogs we know are supposed to guard the house at night. Likewise a woman is supposed to involve in domestic work during day time . She should not sleep, ignoring her duties. Hence the comparison .
[Abdul Samad K]
*Effect of Mass Prayer
Many believe that mass prayer has to some extent the effect of curing various ailments.
The cure is only temporary. But even the temporary cure depends on the patient's strong belief in the God to whom the prayer is offered. It has also been noted that the singing and use of music elevates the mental state of the patient.!
Pentecost, a section of the Christian community strongly believe that mass prayers in the patient’s home helps cure diseases.
[Rema Devi K.P]
3. Animals and Birds
* Arrival of a cat is favoured in houses
As in olden times, there is still a belief among the housewives that a cat's arrival in to the house is a boon. Often the arrival of a cat coincides with auspicious moments in the house . But, it is the cat that gets the credit .
Cats we know , kill rats, cockroaches and other creatures which are a menace to people who dwell in a house. So the household's love and affection towards the cat increases. Moreover a cat never causes disturbances. Hence the arrival of a cat is always considered a good thing.
[Ayisha M]
* God of Death ‘Kalan’ and howling of dogs
Dogs usually bark; at certain moments they groan too. It’s believed that dogs howl like jackals when they see Kalan – the God of Death. People believe that man cannot see Kalan with his naked eyes but animals can, particularly dogs. Dogs receive signals of movements and sound waves from the atmosphere and it groans.
Hours prior to the Tsunami which hit the Kerala coast many heard the groaning of dogs !
[Abdul Samad K]
*Effect of cat crossing ones path
Many people believe that while going on a venture if a cat crosses ones path it is not auspicious to walk along the path. Proceeding on the venture , ignoring the crossing by the cat will turn to be a futile exercise.
It is often said that if the cat jumps from left to right it is an ill-omen and if it jumps from right to left it is considered to be a good sign. [Sangeetha Sukumaran]
* Effect of crows roosting on trees
It is widely believed that if crows build their nest on any tree , that tree is bound to wither away. One reason could be that their excreta and constant movement break small branches. Even the heat generated by them could result in the tree turning dry.
[Shameera K.M]
*For more articles by the editor view :
http://cpraveenpublications.blogspot.com/
On submission, I had edited and classified them under three heads :
1. Gods and rituals
2. People and habits
3. Animals and birds
C. Praveen, Teacher Educator , Govt. CTE, Trivandrum
Note: * The name of the trainee who submitted the entry follows
each superstition.
* The trainees are also members of the English Club of the College.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
1. Gods and Rituals
* Effect of a goddess’ wrath
The belief, if you failed to worship Bhadrakal, [ the furious face of the Hindu goddess Durga] you would be cursed with smallpox had been prevalent in the ancient days. Negligence on the part of the devotee in performing rituals or worshipping the deity could spark the fury of the goddess. The wrathful goddess would then curse him/her with illness, so that the accursed learns a lesson .This belief prevailed for a long time and people even approached astrologers to perform some remedial rituals.
[ Sreeja T.S]
* Significance of going round the banyan tree in the temple premises
According to a Hindu belief, the lower part of the banyan tree is resided by Lord Brahma, the middle part, Lord Vishnu and the upper part, Lord Siva. One has to go around a Banyan tree seven times. Circling the tree at dawn brings recovery from diseases and luck to have children. It is also believed that going around the banyan tree will reduce the ill effects of Saturn on devotees.
The banyan tree has a special importance as it purifies the air in a temple. This concept has a scientific aspect too. Only two plants in the world have the ability to produce Ozone viz. Banyan tree and Basil. The Ozone produced by the Banyan tree, though it is in a very slight amount, improves health and refreshes the mind. That’s why people say that one should circle the Banyan tree when one visits a temple.
[Rakesh E.T]
* Pilgrims touching Priest and the Head Priest is forbidden
The Priest and the Head Priest are the ones that make ceremonial offerings to the deity, in temples. Their duty involves among other things , bathing the idol with perfumed sandal paste. Many come to the temple and it is often difficult to know any thing about the people who visit temples .Often people who don’t bathe and hence are unclean come too and by touching the Priest or the Head Priest while receiving offerings he/ she pollutes both the priest and the idol. Polluting and idol is considered inauspicious.
[Aiswarya Lakshmi]
* A ritual for family deities
Chavoot (1)1 is a custom that is still prevalent in South Kerala, especially in the districts of Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam. After the seasons of cultivation and harvest, it’s the right time for the head of the family to repose and then to perform ceremonies like Chavoot. Its conducted for the departed forefathers and also for the family deities (Paradaivangal)[2] like Madan, Marutha,Pey,Yogeshwaran
[3] and so forth. The eldest member of the family must choose a Friday or Tuesday for performing this rite. After dusk, one places a lamp and neranazhi [4] on the cow dung smeared courtyard of ones house. Thereafter bestows avil [5 ]mixture,
ada [6], bananas, jaggery and sugar upon a thooshanila [7 ]for each one of the deities separately. Toddy and liquor are also placed along with it. One then takes some water in a kindi [8] and by offering prayers, one sprinkles it over the offerings in the thooshanila. After ten minutes one shares these among the members of the family. It’s believed that if one performs this rite with due ceremony, the head as well as the entire members of the family along with its flora and fauna, will be redeemed from all miseries and misfortunes.
Foot notes:
*1Chavoot is the name of a ritual performed in Kerala for the deceased members and family deities.
*2 paradaivangal means family deities.
*3Madan, Marutha, Pey and Yogeswaran are family deities in Kerala .
*4neranazhi is a nazhi (measuring vessel in Kerala) full of rice or paddy.
*5avil is flattened rice.
*6ada is a kind of flour cake.
*7thooshanila is the end portion of a plantain leaf.
*8kindi is a brass water pot with a spout.
[ Sreeja T.S]
* Significance of the ‘Parayidal’ ritual
Most temples in Kerala observe a ritual known as ‘Parayidal’ as a part of their festival. The temple idol is mounted on an elephant and it visits neighbouring houses in a procession. The temple priest leads the procession. Various drums like Chenda, Maddalam etc. are played during the procession . Bursting crackers is an indispensable part of the procession.
Young maidens sweep the courtyard of the house and smears the surface with cow’s dung. After the cleaning of the courtyard they draw designs using rice flour. Such designs have been called as “Kolams”. A plantain leaf is placed on the “Kolam” and a lamp is lit along with offerings to the Hindu God, Ganesha.
When the temple idol arrives at the courtyard, a “Para”, which is a basin for measurement, filled with paddy is placed in front of the lamp. After liturgies the Brahmins offer paddy to the God . This religious ceremony comes to an end when the priest gets his ‘dakshina’ or token money for favours rendered. This ritual is observed to bring prosperity. It also helps to save one from evil resulting from ones star of birth.
[Rakesh E.T]
2. People and Habits
* Significance of drawing designs on the floor, every morning
In India, a few communities still follow the custom of drawing designs on the floor. It is an usual sight in the South Indian states of Karnataka and Tamilnadu. After sweeping the courtyard clean, the women take bath, apply vermilion on their forehead and draw the designs on the floor. Unmarried women also do the same. Usually the designs are not that of human beings and other objects. They draw designs in a swindling, up and down and criss-cross manner using dough rice. Some draw floral designs. After making the outline, they also puff it by adding green, red, blue and yellow powders. It is believed that these are for the opulence and goodness of their own residence.
[Aiswarya Lakshmi]
*Lighting lamp at dawn
It is an old age custom in Kerala. Early in the morning after taking bath, people light the lamp. They believe that this would bring home the goddess of wealth , Lakshmi. Some people chant the Harinama Keerthana at that time. They believe that doing so also make their mind pure and those living in the house will prosper.
[Ragini.K]
* Bathing to overcome evil ‘Kani’
It was an old belief practiced by Brahmins and the upper caste . When they set out on a journey or a new enterprise , if they happen to see the lower caste people on the way , it was considered an ill omen. So they temporarily delayed the trip, cleansed themselves by taking bath again continued the journey or venture.
It may be noted that the bath has little significance. What matters is the person seen first , or the kani when the journey commenced. The belief was that, if they took a bath again not only will the body become pure and energetic but also the blemishes of the kani will vanish.
For many Keralites kani is very important even today and it is reflected in the popular festival , Vishu.
[Ayisha .M]
*On wearing golden anklets
Gold is synonymous with Goddess Lakshmi (Goddess of Wealth). Elders believe that wearing gold on legs is a serious abuse. One can very well wear it on the neck, nose or ear. It adds to the beauty also. According to traditional health science, the constant rubbing of gold on the ‘vital nerve centre’ (Nagamarmmam) of legs may cause rheumatism. Hence wearing gold anklets on ones legs is discouraged.
[Roshan.T.Mathew ]
* Stepping on winnowing fan is forbidden
A winnowing fan is made of reed or sliced bamboo. It has four sides , and is flat. It is used to clean and separate corn or paddy from chaff. Food is sacred. Stepping on a winnowing fan in addition to showing disrespect to food makes it unclean. Elders consider stepping on a winnowing fan even by innocent children a sin.
[Ameer Ali Kaderi]
* Direction for sleeping
Elders often say that each direction has its own gods according to Vastu, the Indian Science of Architecture.
While sleeping, placing of head in the northern direction is forbidden as only the dead body is ever placed in the northern direction . Placing the head in the eastern, and southern direction is acceptable.
To some local scientists the earth’s magnetic circle which moving from the northern direction repulses the magnetic circle of the human body and results in hysteria.
[Roby Mathew ]
*The best way to rise from bed
It is considered best to rise from the bed by turning to the right side with folded palms. In addition to being auspicious doing so makes ones mind fresh. Often good deeds are performed with the right hand. Religious rites , sacrificial offerings, consumption of food etc. place importance for the right side.
[Ragini.K]
* Using the Grinding stone after dark is forbidden
Before mechanization women entirely depended on the grinding stone. Traditionally many abstain from grinding in the evening. This is because evening is the time of lighting lamps for worship. In addition , the noise that the grinding stone makes disturbs one who prays. It is also widely believed that evening is the time when the Goddess of wealth visits houses and the noise of a grinding machine might discomfort the Goddess.
Further, in olden days when there was no electricity , lamps were used to light the rooms and the grinding stone was usually placed near the kitchen . When it is dark one seldom notices lizards , ants or cockroaches . Some of these could be poisonous .
[Ameer Ali Kaderi]
*Effect of consuming stolen food
It is widely believed that consumption of stolen food causes hiccough. We know that consumption of hot and spicy food materials or eating rashly often results in hiccough. Children it has been observed eat delicious food items covertly. Then they consume in a reckless manner resulting in hiccough.
[Remadevi K.P]
* Fisherwoman and Sea relationship
Whenever the "Marakkan" (husband of a fisher woman) goes to sea for fishing his ‘Marakkathy’(wife) should sit in the hut offering prayer to God and the Sea Mother till his return. This is a traditional belief and custom among the fisher folk of Kerala. Failure to do so and indulging in flirting with men will cause the Sea Mother to become angry and She will drown the boat of the Marakkan.
[Sindhu.S]
* On Curses
Popular Indian mythology gives several instances of sufferings caused by the effect of curses by sages and celestial angels . To the people of Kerala, particularly the older generation , curses are bound to have its effect.
[Shameera K.M]
*On marrying ones own uncle’s daughter
Marrying ones Uncle’s daughter was an old custom in Kerala. The Uncle referred to here is the mother's brother. It was also believed that such a marriage will result in better family ties and a more cordial relationship. Further the family property wouldn’t diminish as dowry.
The practice is not very popular in Kerala now.
[Sindhu. S]
*The effect of the star ‘Chithira’
There is a wide spread belief that if any one is born under the sign of Chitira the fourteenth star in the lunar mansion , his /her house is sure to ruin and perish .This is attributed to the position of Sun and Mars in relation to the star Chitira.
Those born under this sign is sure to lose ones house and has to live in other houses. They however display strong opinions and dislike being advised by others. This results in quarrels.
The ruin of the Travancore Kings is attributed to the birth of a prince under the star, Chitira.
[Vidya P.M]
* Significance of displaying scarecrow
Hanging dummies in front of new buildings both completed and under construction is common in Kerala. It can also be seen in vegetable orchards. It is widely believed that the gaze or evil eyes of on-lookers are directed to it and not to the things around.
Scare crows also generate fear on thieves at night ! [Sangeetha Sukumaran]
*Consumption and the sin of killing
Some people justify the deed of killing animals . The logic is that to eat means to suffer and eating the animal is tantamount to suffering . That is. the sin of killing can be compensated only by eating!
[Roby Mathew]
*Significance of giving new Bridal Dress on the occasion of Marriage
Marriage is an auspicious occasion. Here a man accepts a woman as his life partner. It is the solemn duty of the man to protect the bride throughout his life, giving her everything she needs. By giving the new bridal dress, the groom solemnly and explicitly declares that he takes over all these responsibilities from that moment onwards. That is the importance and implication of the New Bridal Dress.
Dress is the most important thing for a woman in order to protect her chastity. So taking the New Bridal Dress from her life partner is a long cherished wish of every woman. That is also one reason why the married woman preserves the bridal attire till the end of her life.
[Roshan.T.Mathew ]
* On birth and rebirth
Hindus believe in rebirth. But rebirth is completely dependent on ones Karma (ie; deeds one does during ones life time). One is reborn a worm, a cockroach, a fly or other form depending on ones karma. Only one who performs good deeds ever gets to be reborn as a human being. Hence the emphasis on performing noble deeds during ones life on earth.
[Vidya P.M]
* Comparison : Dog and woman
To many, a dog that sleeps at night and a woman who sleeps during day are alike. Dogs we know are supposed to guard the house at night. Likewise a woman is supposed to involve in domestic work during day time . She should not sleep, ignoring her duties. Hence the comparison .
[Abdul Samad K]
*Effect of Mass Prayer
Many believe that mass prayer has to some extent the effect of curing various ailments.
The cure is only temporary. But even the temporary cure depends on the patient's strong belief in the God to whom the prayer is offered. It has also been noted that the singing and use of music elevates the mental state of the patient.!
Pentecost, a section of the Christian community strongly believe that mass prayers in the patient’s home helps cure diseases.
[Rema Devi K.P]
3. Animals and Birds
* Arrival of a cat is favoured in houses
As in olden times, there is still a belief among the housewives that a cat's arrival in to the house is a boon. Often the arrival of a cat coincides with auspicious moments in the house . But, it is the cat that gets the credit .
Cats we know , kill rats, cockroaches and other creatures which are a menace to people who dwell in a house. So the household's love and affection towards the cat increases. Moreover a cat never causes disturbances. Hence the arrival of a cat is always considered a good thing.
[Ayisha M]
* God of Death ‘Kalan’ and howling of dogs
Dogs usually bark; at certain moments they groan too. It’s believed that dogs howl like jackals when they see Kalan – the God of Death. People believe that man cannot see Kalan with his naked eyes but animals can, particularly dogs. Dogs receive signals of movements and sound waves from the atmosphere and it groans.
Hours prior to the Tsunami which hit the Kerala coast many heard the groaning of dogs !
[Abdul Samad K]
*Effect of cat crossing ones path
Many people believe that while going on a venture if a cat crosses ones path it is not auspicious to walk along the path. Proceeding on the venture , ignoring the crossing by the cat will turn to be a futile exercise.
It is often said that if the cat jumps from left to right it is an ill-omen and if it jumps from right to left it is considered to be a good sign. [Sangeetha Sukumaran]
* Effect of crows roosting on trees
It is widely believed that if crows build their nest on any tree , that tree is bound to wither away. One reason could be that their excreta and constant movement break small branches. Even the heat generated by them could result in the tree turning dry.
[Shameera K.M]
*For more articles by the editor view :
http://cpraveenpublications.blogspot.com/