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

Today is National Reading Day, a perfect occasion to explore the world of books and the joy of reading. Established to honor the legacy of P.N. Panicker, the father of the library movement in Kerala, this day reminds us of the profound impact reading can have on our lives. Let's look into the history and significance of this day, the types of books you can read, the advantages of reading, tips to fit reading into a busy schedule, and the role of technology in modern reading habits. The History and Significance of National Reading Day National Reading Day is celebrated on June 19th each year to commemorate the death anniversary of P.N. Panicker, a revered teacher and the driving force behind Kerala's library movement. Panicker's efforts in establishing local libraries and promoting reading have led to Kerala achieving a 100% literacy rate, a remarkable feat recognized worldwide. In 2017, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared June 19th as National Reading Day, extending the c

In the warm kitchen of their modest home, Arjun and Priya prepared to create a masterpiece. The soft morning light filtered through the window, casting a golden glow on the fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and tender chicken pieces that lay before them. The air was filled with the intoxicating scent of Priya’s mehendi, still fresh on her hands from their wedding ceremony. Priya, adorned in a simple yet elegant saree, her sindoor a bright crimson line parting her hair, moved gracefully around the kitchen. Arjun watched her, his heart swelling with admiration and love. She was the epitome of beauty, her shyness only adding to her charm. Their eyes met briefly, a silent communication passing between them, a blend of shyness and affection. Without words, they began their culinary dance. Arjun handed Priya a bowl of yogurt marinated chicken, infused with spices that whispered tales of their heritage and dreams. She smiled softly, her fingers brushing his as she took the bowl. Each touch,

Image credit: QuantumCurator In the past few days, the night skies have been adorned with a breathtaking view in many parts of the world that took the attention of people across the globe—the A u r o r a B o r e a li s , also known as the Northern Lights. This natural phenomenon, typically confined to the polar regions, has graced the heavens over diverse landscapes, from the vast expanses of Europe to the remote corners of Ladakh, India.  But what exactly is this mesmerizing display, and why has it ventured so far from its usual domain? A Dance of Light and Magnetism Image Credits: Alphacoders The Aurora Borealis is a celestial ballet of shimmering lights, an ethereal display that has fascinated humanity for centuries. But its beauty is not merely superficial; it's a manifestation of intricate interactions between charged particles from the Sun and the Earth's magnetic field. At the heart of this phenomenon lies the Sun, our radiant star, which continuously releases a stream

As temperatures soar across various parts of India, a major concern grips the nation: the ongoing heat wave. But what exactly is a heat wave, and why does it bring such extreme conditions? Let's look into the details to understand the current situation, its underlying causes, and what can be done to mitigate its impact. Image credits: The Academic What is a Heat Wave? A heat wave isn't just a hot day or two; it's an extended period of exceptionally high temperatures coupled with humidity. During a heat wave, hot air gets trapped near the ground, creating a dome-like effect that prevents cooler air from moving in. This phenomenon is often caused by high-pressure systems in the atmosphere, which act like a lid, locking the heat in. Why is India Experiencing Severe Heat Waves? Several factors contribute to the intensity and frequency of heat waves in India. Climate change stands out as a significant driver, altering weather patterns and exacerbating extreme heat events. Global