G Writes

Today, a devastating landslide in the hilly regions near Meppadi in Wayanad, Kerala, has resulted in the tragic loss of at least 63 lives, with 116 people injured and hundreds more believed to be trapped. This disaster, which coincides with heavy rainfall, is a stark reminder of the urgent need to heed the warnings and recommendations of the Gadgil Report. The recent landslide in Wayanad is not an isolated incident. Kerala is a state highly vulnerable to natural disasters and the changing climatic dynamics given its location along the sea coast and with a steep gradient along the slopes of the Western Ghats. Kerala is also one of the most densely populated Indian states (860 persons per square kilometer), which makes it even more vulnerable to damages and losses on account of disasters. The heavy rainfall triggered a landslide that swept through the region, causing significant destruction and loss of life. Such incidents highlight the fragile nature of the Western Ghats and the dire co

The Malayalam month of Karkidakam is known for its intense prayers, fasting, and austere lifestyle. Devotees across Kerala recite the Ramayana every day during this month, carrying out rituals believed to bring spiritual and mental benefits. This month is marked by heavy rains and the transition of the sun from one 'rasi' to the next, an event called 'sankramam'. This period, filled with rituals like lighting traditional lamps and chanting prayers to the Sun, is considered highly auspicious. Importance of Karkidakam Karkidakam, falling during the peak of the monsoon, is associated with a heightened risk of illnesses due to the weather conditions. This month is seen as a time for rejuvenation and preparation for the new year starting in Chingam. Traditionally, people use this time to purify their minds and bodies through Ayurvedic treatments such as uzhichil (massaging), medicinal therapies, and consuming Karkidaka Kanji, a special medicinal porridge. The Malayalam calen

The people of Kerala read the Ramayana during the month of Karkidakam, which is also known as Ramayana month. I discovered something surprising: throughout India, this month is given great significance only in Kerala. This month is famous for dark clouds and heavy rains, and it's believed that people read the Ramayana to build self-confidence during these difficult days. The Ramayana, written by Thunchaththu Ramanujan Ezhuthachan in Malayalam and known as Adhyatma Ramayana, is read in every Hindu home in the evenings. It is also recited in all temples of Kerala, both mornings and evenings, every day for one month. Thunchaththu Ramanujan Ezhuthachan, considered the father of Malayalam language and literature, translated both great epics into Malayalam for the first time. Due to superstitious beliefs, they were not directly translated but written as 'Kilippaattu' (song of a bird), creating a new branch of literature. Since Karkidakam is considered the dark month, people give