Petals!

The year 2023 has been full of surprises. My birthday this year was almost spent in the hospital and it was not an easy terrain to navigate, at the time. So, yes, it has been a year of precious lessons that taught me to surrender to the Divine Mother. I am still learning to take the baby steps, falling and getting up again while the Divine Mother watches. [Read: Kalyanam Celebrations, Temple Visits and Sarpakaavu] The rollercoaster of anxiety that gripped me this year paved the way for understanding the need to transcend the trappings of my egoistic mind. The story of hidden trauma is another tale to tell, a mapping of pain and agony, only the doctors can probe and share their clinical spells. Chaitanya Mahaprabhu once asked Ramananda Raya, "What is the greatest suffering that anyone can undergo in this world?" He replied, " The suffering of a pure devotee from being separated from another pure devotee or the separation pangs of a pure devotee bereft of the Lord's ...

Dhauli Shanti Stupa in Odisha: A visit to Odisha's much revered Jagannath Temple this year has been one of my happiest moments in 2023. When I remember my first darshan at the iconic Puri temple, it brings such joy to my heart! [ Subscribe to my newsletter on Substack ] Why is Dhauligiri Famous? Located about 8 km from Bhubaneshwar, this place has a picturesque and scenic view. It is believed that King Ashoka's intention to end war and embrace Ahimsa took place at this spot called Dhauligiri, where the tourist spot has become a cultural and spiritual hub. A closer look at the Dhauli Shanti Stupa establishes how the influence of the Buddha has permeated this area into a devotional space that symbolises peace, harmony and mindfullness. People from all walks of life visit this scenic spot. It's got a lovely view and nice sculptures. And you can see the entire city from the top. The image shown in this blog has been from the same spot where the Shanti Stupa has been construct...