NAARIBANDH ( MAULI ) CONTINUES TO REMAIN WITH KASHMIRI PANDITS

                                                                                   

NAARIBANDH CONTINUES TO REMAIN WITH KASHMIRI PANDITS .

Photo Autar Mota November 2013.

It is a practice that has come to stay with Kashmiri Pandits since many centuries and its roots can be traced to VEDIC civilization..

A red thread known as Naaribandh in kashmiri is tied to the wrist in   a religious ceremony . The thread is tied on the right hand by males and unmarried females while married females tie it on their left hand .

Beyond this I need to quote Saint and Shaiva Scholar Pandit Rugh Nath Kukoloo ( 1911 -1997 ) affectionately known as Baigaash . Always sending positive vibrations , his smiling demeanor would attract one and all irrespective of caste ,creed , colour or religion. Baaigash was a scholar and accomplished astrologer . See What has to say about Naaribandh..

  

“ Naaribandh or Mauli is tied to invoke the blessings . Since Mantra recitation has a direct effect on this thread , it is also useful to ward off evil from a person who wears it. It also protects the person who wears it from ailment ,opponents and threats . The Naribandh has some knots ( Generally 3 or 5 or 7  )on its length that hold the spiritual powers. Never come out from a Puja , a Homa or a Religious ceremony without a Naaribandh . You carry no positive vibrations for your mind . And above all it should be tied by the priest who is attending the Puja or Homa .Never yourself and never by a person who did not sit in the puja or Homa .

A Naaribandh also carries the blessings of Trideva and Tridevis ( Brahma , Vishnu , Mahesha , Lakshmi , Sarswati and Durga ). Brahma creates new positive thoughts in our mind , Vishnu protects these thoughts for us and Shiva destroys all bad and negative thoughts . Sarsawati gives us knowledge , lakshmi brings wealth while Durga gives us Power and energy . So Keep a Naaribandh tied to your hand till you tie a new one in some other Religious Ceremony. It should not be thrown in Dustbins or on Roads . Best way to dispose off a used Naaribandh is to consign it to Vedic elements like fire or water . I would suggest fire only.” 

(Autar Mota 29.11.2013 )

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DR.VED KUMARI GHAI :SCHOLAR EXTRAORDINARY FROM JAMMU AND KASHMIR STATE

                                                                                

Jammu 28.11.2013.

( L to R Nida Nawaz Hindi poet from Kashmir, Dr Ved Kumari Ghai and Autar Mota )

Dr Ved Kumari Ghai ( Born 1932 )

( MA Sanskrit , MA Ancient Indian History And Literature , Doctorate in Sanskrit , Diploma in German and Danish languages )

 

SCHOLAR EXTRAORDINARY .

Kashmiris in particular remain indebted to her for her scholarly translation of Neelmat Purana ( 2 Volumes ) to English and Kashmiri poet Rajanka Ratankantha’s SURYASHATKAM ( 100 Shlokas in praise of Sun God ) to English from a Sharda manuscript . 

                                                                            

Dr Ghai has also authored books like Kashmir Darpan, Narendra-Darpan and Kashmir ka Sanskrit Sahitya ko Yogdaan ( Kashmir’s contribution to Sanskrit literature) . Together with her scholarly husband Prof . Ram Pratap , she has co authored books like Urmika ( a collection of Sanskrit poems ) , Mere Geet Tumhaaray hain ( Hindi ), Rajendra-karnpur,Bhallat-shatak and Sanskrit Sahitya Aur Nibhandh . Her scholarly book “Studies in Phonetics and phonology “ has been widely appreciated and well received. .

                                                                          

Dr Ghai has also authored innumerable scholarly papers on ancient Indian history and culture and helped at least two  generations of writers with her knowledge and erudition. Dr.Ghai has been abroad several times in connection with academic assignments.

She is former Head, PG Sanskrit Department, University of Jammu and has bag full of awards and honours including the prestigious Padma Bhushan. She is presently chairperson of Gandhi Sewa Sadan, Vasudev Katumbkam Welfare Society, Member of Shri Amarnath Shrine Board and associated with a number of literary and social organizations.

And In addition to teaching and research work at Jammu University, till her retirement in December, 1991, Dr Ghai has also taught Panini’s grammar and Sanskrit literature at the Institute of Indian Studies, Copenhagen University, Denmark (1966-67 and 1978-80). She has also been associated with Stockhom University . She lives at Trikuta Nagar in Jammu city .

It was a pleasure to listen to her today in a seminar and interact with her in presence of young poets / writers which included Prof. Aruna sharma , Shri Agnishekhar, Sheikh Mohd Kalyan , Nida Nawaz ,Maharaj Krishen Santoshi and Punjabi writer Dr Baljit Raina . I salute  her clarity of thought and erudite conceptual frame work . A very polite lady who is firm and clear in her elocution.

“Yes I have been able to locate some more manuscripts out of which two have been written by of Rajanka Ratankantha the Kashmiri Sanskrit Poet . I look forward to translate them. With these translations , another aspect of Kashmir’s contribution to Indian thought and the richness of its past culture shall emerge to readers . ”

                                                                        

A moment of great privilege for me  to interact with this living legend..May she  live long and continue  doing her great work......

( Avtar Mota  )

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UMESH KAUL : VERSATILE SHORT STORY WRITER FROM KASHMIR

                                                                           

Umesh Kaul ( Born 1934 ) is a forgotten short story writer from Kashmir .  Born in Sopore  Kashmir , Umesh kaul used to write in Hindi and Urdu  before he switched over to Kashmiri . His first kashmiri  story Ad Kathh ( Half story  ) was published in kashmiri Magzine KONG POSH in 1955.  His    stories like Duwoat and Dil are a proof of his dexterity in understanding Human relations. He belonged to  a select   group of Modern writers  who were influenced by  European short story writers . This group comprised of   Akhtar Mohi Ud din , Hriday Kaul Bharti, Ali Mohd Lone , Bansi Nirdosh , Amin Kamil , Deepak Kaul , Avtar Krishen Rehbar , Taj Begum Renzoo , Rattan lal Shant , Hari krishen kaul and many more . Later many writers  including   Faruq Masudi also joined this group of Modern  kashmiri short story writers . Some amongst them also  wrote plays on contemporary and socially relevant themes.

Sometimes you find him present in his stories  and quite often his language turns romantic . To some readers   his stories appear like  flower beds  of emotions.  However  his two stories namely Ada Kathh ( Half story ) and Akh Devta Ta Akh Raakheuss ( One god and one Devil ) bring forth all the essential characteristics of   his style and language  . In a way both are his representative Stories .

Umesh ji also wrote script for some Kashmiri Language  documentaries  for Information And Broadcasting  Ministry 

Adds  Prof. Nighat Hafiz from kashmir 

“Physically a tiny structure mentally as alert as ever, a gem of a person as I knew him. Docile, soft spoken and decent to talk to, he would make a difference while walking through corridors of Radio Kashmir's Srinagar station...People would start calling him from every corner and ask for help. My salutes for all the respect he showered on me while working with him.”

Prof. Shiben Raina   Adds

“ Umesh ji  must have written more than two dozen stories in kashmiri .From 1962 to 1964 , he was subeditor of a news paper KASHMIR POST  published from Srinagar and later joined AIR Srinagar as senior script writer .I have included one of his short stories Bhagya-harta in a compilation of contemporary short stories  that I did for Bhartiya Gyanpeeth in 1973.. ”

Adds his friend  Shri Bansi Raina

“He was a photographer and had some  expensive cameras and Gadgets . He would also paint in his spare time . Umesh was no ordinary Human being. He along with Bansi Nirdosh would churn out one script of VADI  KI   AWAAZ  every alternate day. He could be friends with any generation. He was the elder brother of painter Bhushan and  Hriday Kaul Bharti. A gem and a great man and friend and guide. He was frail but mentally very strong.He would sometimes take me to his  home and  say to  Bhabi..(his mother..).Pochh chhu mai onmut ( I have brought a Guest with me ) and would ensure I was properly fed. Array yeh to Yaadon ki Baraat hai  .”

Nida Nawaz well known Hindi poet from kashmir adds..

"He was also a leading broadcaster and as a script writer of "Science Magazine" I worked under His guidance for thirteen years.He was indeed a great guide and the best writer."

Shri Rajesh Kaul ( Ex. Senior officer from Door Darshan ) informs ..

"Umesh Kaul ji had masters degree in Hindi but would write a science talk for Radio Kashmir. He was blessed with so many capabilities apart from being a good writer. He was a very good cinematographer , an animator, a film processor and an editor. He shot Introductory montage for a science fic. Dr. Zero for DD Srinagar in late 70's, processed at his house and edited the same under magnifying glass using a magnifying glass a scissor and a cello tape. The film being mute the music was added later on the ceteanbeck table at TV Centre Srinagar. The series was produced by Sh. C.L.Hakhoo and had Late Sh. Som Nath Sadhu & Pushkar Bhan sahib in the lead roles."

.
I conclude this post on Umesh kaul with some lines from a poem of Kashmiri poet Farooq Nazki

Me Taapa Kraayun Andher su Tschondumm

Me sheena Tschaatie munz deutumm nabuss vonn.

Vathhie Garuss bar Taa Daarie Traavith

Su Aav Kar Tayee Su Draav Koat Kunn.

( Farooq Nazki )

I searched him under the blazing sun ,

In icy winds  I rummaged the skies to look for him..

Keeping doors and windows of the house open  ,

Tell me when did he come and which destination he left for ?

( Autar Mota 27.11.2013 )

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A KASHMIRI PANDIT BRIDEGROOM....VEEGIS MAAEJ NATCHIYO MAHARAAZO ,YENDERAAZO SHARIKA ANNIZIENN ( Your mother shall dance merrily on the Rangoli , Looking like lord Indra ! Bring a girl Like Sharika to this house )

                                                                                     

                 
A  KASHMIRI  PANDIT  BRIDEGROOM

Photo Autar Mota (25.11.2013.)

The bridegroom is about to leave with the Barat to the Bride’s house for the auspicious LAGAN . He was made to stand over the colourfully drawn VYOOG ( Rangloi ) and garlanded by his relatives. Every lady tried to kiss his forehead and bless him. A relative blew the Conch Shell. His cousin held a decorated umbrella over him. A child dressed as *(1)Poat Maharaaza held his hand while his grandmother put a small piece of Barfi in his mouth .

And as the BARAT left for the Bride’s house , men rushed towards the waiting Cars to occupy seats while women walked behind the bridegroom clapping , dancing and singing….

(1)        Chhakki Sheerin Daanaai Daanai .( Shower him with   sugar candies piece after piece) .

(2)        Ye Chhu Mossuum Mossum Krishna Bhagwaan ( He is as innocent as Lord Krishna Himself )

(3)        Naabad Aaprovnuss Sharikaaye.. Shiv ji hai Ghar Draav Umaaye .

.( Goddess Sharika has come to put sweet candies in his mouth , Behold ! Lord shiva leaving for  Uma’s / Parvati ‘s  abode  .)

(4)        Veegis Maaej Natchiyo Mahaaraazo… Yenderaazo sharika Anizein...( Your mother shall dance merrily on the Rangoli ,   Looking like lord Indra ! Bring a girl Like Sharika to this house )

And when the Car carrying the bridegroom started to leave , His mother rushed close and threw handfuls of rupee coins over the vehicle . The ladies kept dancing around the VYOOG and wishing the boy and his bride happiness and prosperity even after the bridegroom and the BARAT had left.

AND these simple and unknown kashmiri women (with their VANVUN, TEIKTAAL, TARANGA ,MAAENZI DULL, VYOOG, ATTAHUUR , DEIJHUUR , NARIBANDH, KROOL and HIKAT ) kept RIVER  VITASTA ( Jhelum ) flowing in my mind .

(Autar  Mota 26.11.2013 )

PS

The Poat Maharaza practice was started by Kashmiri Pandits during the dark Days of Afghan rule in Kashmir.It was introduced under great anxiety as bridegrooms with Dastaars on their heads were seized by Pathans and tortured. So another young boy dressed like a Bridegroom and called as Pot Maharaza would also join the Barat . And should any untoward happen to the real bridegroom , the POT MAHARAZA was a natural substitute .

                                                                  

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MY POEM "LAMENT OF LOSS' ( RAAVAN TYOL IN KASHMIRI ) WITH A VIEW OF LONELY ACHHABAL GARDEN OF KASHMIR

                                                                           

LONELY ACHHABAL GARDEN (KASHMIR )

TO THIS PHOTO I AM ADDING MY KASHMIRI POEM Raavan Tyol ( lament of loss ). The poem has also been rendered to simple English for those readers  who do not understand kashmiri...

( Ravan Tyol )

Kaaem Taam Vuchh Aekki Dohh Suyee  Bulbul

Baagus Peith Beiyee Vuff  laayaan

Kattie taam Aav Ta Guvv Bonein kunn

Baalun Kunn Tchol  Khoat Aakaashus

Doorein Munz Gayee Sheitchh Ammi Kathhie Hinz

Jaafur Voathh Heirrun Nanavoar

Hee Thharie Dietch Kraaekh  “ Hey Ghar Anietoan ”

Gule-Akhtaab Draas   Neithhanon Tchhaandieni   

Kaawuv kaer Fraestun pyath Chik-chikh

Baaga Tchariev dyuot  Voann Aakaashus

Patta Kattie sa Kattie Neab lobukh tuss

Tchhandaan Roodhiess Lanjjie Hiendh Posh

Kaanh Mossum Chhallihay Yimm Daag

Deivaa Poshun Mashihay “ Kyah Goam? ”

Vaav Karaan Gatta Geur Lanjjien Az

Vaai  Pattarun Mosha -Mut  Tcharri-Popp.

Baagus Burr Gayee Yella Akki Doah Itta

Tche ta Vuchh Baaguk Raavun Tyol…

( Autar Mota 26.11.2013 )

( Lament of loss )

And then one day ,

Some one saw that Bulbul again,

Coming from some end,

It flew  over  the garden towards the Chinar Trees ,

Hurried   towards the mountains

And soared up   the sky .

This news reached   the flower beds ,

The Marigold   rushed down barefoot   ,

The Jasmine  laden branch cried

“ Bring him to his Dwelling ”

The sunflower ran without clothes  to look for  him,

The crows  on the Poplar tree cried in agony ,

The garden sparrows  flew  high to look for  him in the sky ,

 And Never did the Garden know his whereabouts later,

The flower laden branches kept waiting for him,

Look! No season could wash these bruises

And make flowers forget what befell them .

What if the wind   kisses and embraces branches  today,

 The  leaves  do not remember   their cheerful clapping anymore .

 The garden doors are open once more  ,

Drop in someday ,

Let you also see the lament of loss in the Garden.

( Autar Mota 26.11.2013 )

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AND WE FORGOT MOHAN NIRASH ALSO

                                                                               

A SHRUKH OF NUND RESHI OR SHEIKLH UL AALAM DISPLAYED ON A BOARD ENROUTE HIS ZIYARAT IN TSRAAR SHARIF Kashmir .

PHOTO Autar Mota

THE SHRUKH IN KASHMIRI READS AS UNDER

Dodh Traavithh Aab yuss Mandhey

Suyee samsaarus Kandhey Zaav..

Par Ta Paan Yuss Huvuyee Vandhey

Suyee Habaa *(1)Sendhey Teertath Draav…….

(The person who forgets Milk ( Luxury ) and churns water

is really born in this world.

And the One who does not distinguish between himself and others

is on a pilgrimage to the Teertha at Sindh .)

TO  THIS  PHOTO  I  AM  ADDING  MY BRIEF  STORY  ON  MOHAN NIRASH .....

Other day I asked a friend (who shares his knowledge of Camus and Kafka with me ) about Mohan Nirash . Pat came the reply ..

“ Mohan Nirash was a singer with Radio Kashmir Srinagar . ”

 And this reply was a big surprise to me .
                                                                     

                                                          Mohan Nirash ( 1934-2000 ) 

Mohan Nirash ( 1934-2000 ) was a poet , Playwright , Translator and above all a gentle human being . He resided at  Drabyaar Habba kadal and later  later moved to Delhi where his family is settled at the moment . Nirash ji was employed in AIR ( Radio kashmir srinagar ) and was essentially a Hindi poet who started writing in his mother tongue ( kashmiri ) possibly around 1967. He was a master translator and did some excellent translations from kashmiri to Hindi as also from  English ,Hindi and Sanskrit to kashmiri . He wrote kashmiri Dramas ( Ratti Daaen Posh or Bleeding Flowers ) as well. Nirash ji also translated Arthur Miller's DEATH OF A SALES MAN  to kashmiri  apart from translating  Galsworthy's JUSTICE .
                                                 
                                                                         

                                               
And one day in October 2000, while going to meet Santoor Maestro Pandit Bhajan Sopory at his Lodhi Road residence , Mohan Nirash ji met with a Fatal accident . The voice turned silent but the poems that he composed created   an indelible imprint on  kashmiri literature.

I wanted to know about his recorded kashmiri songs and my friend Shri . Dalip Langoo ( Music composer  ) added more to my knowledge and informed me as under

“ Since he was a Hindi poet I am not aware about his Koshur Qalaam but we were in Delhi working on a project, he penned down some beautiful poems for a TV Serial .I have recorded one of his kashmiri poems and put that on my sound cloud. I do not think any of his poems in Kashmiri are at all aired on Radio Kashmir .. His Children:1. Upinder ji recently retired from Akashwani as Depuy Station Director New Delhi; 2. Late Pardyot Raina is no as he too met with a serious road accident a few years ago; 3. Neeraj ji is teacher (Art Teacher) in a Delhi's reputed school and dear Ashutosh Raina is in a private job. Aahee!”.

Here is a portion from this lovely kashmiri song with excellent music composed by Dalip Langoo. This song was actually written for the TV serial Afsanaay e Kashmir produced by Rajesh Amrohi . This song can be heard at ....
https://soundcloud.com/daliplangoo/roni-damanas/s-i4kSO

                                                                 

Rueess Katchie Lokchaar Vun Kuun Trovum Yaavun Rovum Shaharitch Braaentch

Pholnaai Pamposh Kammie Putchnovum Kyaa Gudrovum Taqdeeran …….

Ronnie Daamanuss Shronnie Shronnie rovum Kyaa Gudrovum Taqdeeran

Vuzmallie seenuss Duz Duz Thhovum Kyaa Gudrovum Taqdeeran …….

( Mohan Nirash )

Like a Gazelle , I left my childhood in the forest ,

And lost my youth in this City’s temptations .

Who threw this lotus to dust before its bloom? 

And see what regret my fate brought to me ?

I lost the “Chhum” “Chhum” of my dancing apparel ,

What regret my fate brought to me ?

The lightning kept kindling many a fires within my chest

What regret my fate brought to me ?

In my private collection, I have a copy of Noornama published in kashmiri by Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art culture and Languages dedicated to ALAMDAAR e KASHMIR ( Nund Ryosh ).. This special number has also published some Shrukhs of Nirash ji . I quote ..

Ruum Gayee sheeshus Taapus gayee gatta

Akaalie samayuss Voathh Andhakaar

Paanchuv Praanuv Kraaekh Laayie Yikavatta

Baar Khodayaa Paap Nivaar …..

( Mohan Nirash )

The sun splintered and the day light turned to shadows

Untimely darkness engulfed everything .

All the **(2) five elements cried in one voice

“ O Lord ! Unburden us of these sins .”

  Antaa-Karnan Andherie Peyii Traaetta

 Deh zun valieni Me Aav samsaar .

***(3)Maya Zaalus Aundh katinuss Ratta

Baar Khodaaya  Paap Nivaar ….

( Mohan Nirash )

 As if  Struck by  lightning , The inner self lies battered .

And this  World  appears to influence  this external self  .

Where shall i draw a line to this *MAYA  MESH   ?

O Lord ! Unburden us of our sins .

 Syed Zeeshan Fazil  informs me about a program that Nirash Ji used to produce for Radio kashmir Srinagar ..

 “Pragaash is one of his remarkable productions of Radio kashmir. He was a well read person always dedicated to his work and never believed in any groupism at his work place or outside.”

 And Pragaash was the most popular and informative  Program of Radio Kashmir Srinagar that was aired for about  26 Years .
 Poet Shantiveer Kaul ( son of Stalwart kashmiri Poet Dina Nath Naadim ) adds...

“No gentler soul than Nirashji, no unassuming one either - and as, if not more, erudite, well informed and analytically keen as any. I have memories of this soul that will last me this lifetime as a reference point of what is good and gentle.”

Hindi Poet Agni shekhar adds.....

 “The greatest of great kashmiri translator, who translated nearly 400 radio plays , Gandhi Katha,Ramayana ,Vaital Pachchisi and other important  literary works into Kashmiri . Besides,Mohan Nirash was a prominent hindi poet and broadcaster,efficient Interviewer.He wrote gazals in Kashmiri too. His innovative programme like 'PRAGAASH' was immensely popular across the length and breadth of Kashmir Valley.Mohan Nirash was a household name in Kashmir.And died in exile ”
Adds Bansi Raina..

 “ Mohan Nirash lived at Dalhasanyar. Habbakadal area.A noble unassuming soul ..He was a very diligent  worker. Mohan Nirash who had at ready translated Galsworthy’s  JUSTICE  for the  Radio ..Rewrote it as a stage version at my request...He was fond of palmistry and we use to exchange ideas and view point on the subject. A man who deserved more than what he got. A great friend.”

Nirash ji always believed in the present while ensuring preservation of our language and past cultural heritage . I quote him

“While it is good to take steps for preservation of past heritage, we should not let the present slip out of our hands as our today's achievements are going to be tomorrow's heritage.”

So long so much……………

( Autar Mota 21.11.2013 )

 PS

*(1) SENDHEY is Sindh or the Sangam or Prayag Teertha of kashmir . It is the confluence of Vitasta and Sindh stream at Shadipora Kashmir. This place is also mentioned as Teertha in Neelamat Purana . I quote..

"The wise say that by bathing in the confluence of Sindhu and vitasta especially on the full moon day of the month of Prausthapada , one obtains the merit of the performance of Ashavmedha ."

(Neelamat Purana Canto 1384 Volume II)

* *(2)Five elements are Prithvi ( Earth ), Akaash ( space or sky ). ,Vaayu ( Air ), Jal ( water ) and Agni ( Fire ). These five elements, water, Air, fire, space and earth are together known as “Panchtatva”..

***(3)Maya Zaal  ( Maya Jaal ) is  philosophical concept  related  to Maya or illusion. Many Mystic poets of Kashmir have used the word Maya Zaal  for this world and its material temptations.. In  Budhism , Maya  plays a prominent philosophical role . In Budhism , what appears to the naked eye in this world   is  Maya  or  a Magician’s Illusion which  is far  away from the reality . According to Shaivite Philosophy of Adi Shankara, Māyā is invisible or beyond sense-perception. But this universe which is its effect, is visible or perceived by the senses.

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SUN WORSHIP AND KASHMIR

                                                                       

                     
  ( OPENING PAGE :  MANUSCRIPT   SURYASHATAKAM  BY   RATANAKANTHA  )

Sun Worship was  practiced by ancient Egyptians , Greeks ,Iranians, Aryans and some other civilizations.

Was it practiced in kashmir ?

Yes.....

Read details in SURYA- SHATKAM a book of poetry in praise of SUN GOD   by kashmiri Sanskrit Poet Rajanaka Ratnakantha and  translated to Hindi  by Dr.Ved kumari Ghai ( Born 1932 ).

( Dr Ghai is a well known Sanskrit  Scholar   who has already   translated  NEELMAT PURANA  to English. She has also  Authored another scholarly book   “ Kashmir ka Sanskrit Sahitya Ko Yogdaan ( Kashmir ‘s contribution to Sanskrit literature   ) published by Sahitya Academy New Delhi .The  Book under scrutiny has 96 pages and is moderately priced at Rs120/= published by RICHA  PRAKASHAN 15/2 TRIKUTA NAGAR , JAMMU( J&K) . It is available with Eastern Book Linkers , 5825 , New Chandrawal , Jawahar Nagar Delhi 110007. Dr. Ghai chanced to see this great work of poetry in praise sun God ( in hand written sharda script ) with Sh Dina Nath Yaksha in kashmir. While going through it , she felt highly  impressed with the poetic genius of RATNAKANTHA and decided to translate the book for wider readership . Rajanaka Ratanakantha lived in kashmir in early 17th centuary .It is believed that he wrote this master piece sometime around 1671 AD.....  The book has 100 Sanskrit Shlokas full of philosophy and composed in praise SUN GOD  .The original Sharda  manuscript of SURYA-SHATAKAM has been micro filmed by Oxford Library . The learned translator   sought  help from Oxford  Library for completion of her task.)

 We have enough  evidence to establish that  Sun worship was prevalent  with people belonging to  Indus Valley civilization also  .It was prevalent during Vedic culture. A hymn from Rigveda goes as under:”

“ In the beginning , there existed God , the source of light .He was the one Lord of all the created beings . He upholds this earth and the heavens .He , it is to whom we shall offer our prayers . ”

 As in Egypt and Mesopotamia , Falcon represented the sun god in  Indus Valley culture . Sun worship also  finds  mention in  Hindu epic MAHABHARATA.  Hindu astrology also testifies to the prevalence of Sun worship in India . “

                                                             

  Sun worship is believed to have been brought to Kashmir by Kushans from present day Iran . Rajataringini of kalhana makes a mention of  first  Temple  of Sun God built by  King Ranaditya . It also makes repeated mention of the MARTANDA  Sun Temple of Kashmir built by King Lalitaditya in 8th century . The MARTANDA sun temple has a commanding location and Gigantic structural lay out .  And had it not been demolished during the rule of Sultan Sikander  of Kashmir , it could match any monumental wonder in the world. After the famous sun temple of  Konark in  Odisha , Martanda of Kashmir ( though in ruins) ,  is perhaps the biggest Sun Temple structure in India. The ruins still give an idea of its past  glory and Grandeur.

                                                               

                           (  RUINS  OF MARTANDA   SUN TEMPLE    OF KASHMIR )

I vividly remember  elderly   kashmiri Brahmins saying that  the Sun is reborn in the month of Pausha which corresponds to ending December .They would  call sun as TRINITY or TRIMURTI that comprised of  Brahma ,Vishnu and Mahesha all in one . Late  Badri Nath Sidha ( A sagacious  Brahmin  from Mattan Kashmir ) once explained   the TRIMURTI  concept of  SUN  to me by saying   that the setting Sun is Shiva or Mahesha  or the destroyer of the day ,the  rising sun is Brahma or the creator of the new day while the mid day sun is Vishnu or the preserver .

SURYASHATAKAM has Scholarly text and foot notes By Dr Ghai . This Book is suggested for serious reading..............................

From the Book

"O Gracious lord ! You have the power to break mountains and dry up the oceans. seldom you do that or use such powers.You made your lustre mild to protect life ."

"O Gracious lord ! You look at all equally and impartially. Full of compassion for all animate or inanimate.."

" Driven by 7 horses who have no time to stop,who have never tasted fresh grass and who do not get time to taste water, O Lord ! you keep every one busy and occupied. O lord! let your horses who are always in motion in this universe be kind to all creatures .Let them be in motion to protect life."

“ May the circle of the sun protect us , the sun which is shining like a vermillion mark (on the forehead ) on the face of the eastern direction , the sun which is like a looking glass in the hands of the radiance of the day , the sun which is like a red ball in the hands of the morning glory .”

“ Rays of the sun have reached the ocean , may be for getting heaps of jewels for the worshippers and have pervaded all the directions , may be for amassing wealth for the worshippers ”

( Autar Mota  19.11.2013.. )

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A QUTRAIN IN KASHMIRI AND A VIEW OF ACHHABAL GARDEN OF KASHMIR

                                                                                            

ACHHABAL GARDEN KASHMIR 
MARCH 2013.
I ADD A QUATRAIN COMPOSED BY ME IN KASHMIRI 

Vuchhaan Tchhayan Baras tal Braa’enti  Chaaney

Tche Burr paka-hakh  khabar Bemaar Ma Bhalla

Tche   Itaa Kunni  Saa’ta   kadaman Poash Bhaavaai

Be Imma Vasvaas Chhum Burr  Aasimaa  Yalla……….

( Autar Mota )

In English  i would say 

In Every silhouette near my gate ,

I keep looking for you.

May be the sick  turns well if you pass by .

  Come any moment ,

 I shall lay  flowers in your path.

And My perpetual unease :

“ Will  you keep the door open

should I decide to come over ?”

( AUTAR MOTA 18.11.2013 )

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MINI KASHMIRI POEM ' SOANT ' OR 'SPRING' AND A VIEW OF TULIP GARDEN OF KASHMIR.

                                                                              

SPRING 2013…..

TO this photograph I am adding my mini kashmiri poem “SOANT ” …OR "SPRING"

(Soant )

Hardauss Booz Assi Soantuss Praariv

Loalli Munz chhallie Praanien Daagun

Az Beyii Fulayaa Laejimitch Baagus

Zuv Tchaamut Az Beyii Patarrun

Hey Assi Vaaechhi Baagus Munz deefaeri

Kuss Paai Kurr laegii Chhugg Poshan

Shehjaara Chhakruthh Tcheiti Vaavo

Kattie sa Kattie Aav Aung Zakhmun

( Autar Mota )

( Spring )

We were told in autumn to wait for the ensuing spring ,

Holding in her lap, it shall wash away all our sorrows .

Today flowers bloom again in the garden

And life has come to reside in leaves that are turning green..

Yes friend! I saw visitors in close conversation in the garden

But then who knows when these flowers shall vanish in sudden panic.

O Breeze ! You too have passed on this soft coolness all over ,

And Friend ! When shall these wounds within nurse back to health ?

( Autar Mota 14/11/2013 )

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ACHHABAL GARDEN OF KASHMIR APPEARS TO BE SINGING SONGS OF KASHMIRI POET RAFIQ RAAZ

                                                                               

                                       

AND THE LEAVES TURNED DRY BUT HE DID NOT TURN UP.

ACHHABAL GARDEN OF KASHMIR

Chashma Chhum Phoraan Yaar Nayee Aav

Vukh ti Guvv Doraan Yaar Nayee Aav

Doh ti Guvv Soraan Yaar Nayee Aav

Haal Akki Saal Itaa Laalo …

Gul e Laalo …

Bozanaavuthh Ba Zaar ….

Kaal kaaja Praa-yo…

Baal Paan Maar-Yo..

Yaar Iyaa Na Tche Aar….

Myaani Laalo…

( Rafiq Raaz ).

My eyelids *twitch and that love did not turn up.

The time too moved fast and that love did not turn up,

This day also came to end and that love did not turn up.

Now just come once for the feast

My Tulip !

And I shall open my heart ,

In Waiting I remain,

I may not live to see you ,

Pity my plight !

My Love!

*There are number of myths in every culture on twitching of eyelids. These are associated with good or bad omens. Most of the myths say that twitching of left eye is good for women and bad for men. So also twitching of right eye is bad for women and good for men.

Kashmiris consider it as an indication or advance warning for something unpleasant likely to happen . kashmiris usually say “ Aaechh chhum Phoraan.” Or My eye lids Twitch. 

       
IN UNENDING WAIT FOR SOME ONE WHO HAD TO COME …

ACHHABAL GARDEN  KASHMIR

Poash Faeil Baagus Chhavanaai Rooedh

Daag Laeig Jigruss Haavanaai Rooedh

Kumm sokhan yaarus Baavanaai Rooedh

Haal Akki Saal Itaa Laalo …

Gul e Laalo …

Bozanaavuthh Ba Zaar ….

Kaal kaaja Praa-yo…

Baal Paan Maar-Yo..

Yaar Iyaa Na Tche Aar….

Myaani Laalo…

( Rafiq Raaz ).

The garden was all flowers But we were not there

This heart had its wounds that remained unseen by you

So many intimate conversations couldn't be put across to you  ,Love  !

Now just come once for the feast

My Tulip !

And I shall open my heart ,

In Waiting I remain,

I may not live to see you ,

Pity my plight !

My Love!

                                                                                 

          

AND THE FLOWERS INSIDE ACHHABAL  GARDEN  KEPT WAITING FOR YOU

Rang Roatt Daagun Bagh Vasavaai
 Laaej Vuzien Naagaun Bagh Vasavaai
Poash Phaael Baagan Bagh Vasavaai
Haal Akki Saal Itaa Laalo
Gul e Laalo
Bozanaavuthh Ba Zaar
Kaal kaaja Praa-yo
Baal Paan Maar-Yo
Yaar Iyaa Na Tche Aar
Myaani Laalo….

( Rafiq Raaz )


The wounds have turned colourful , let us visit the gaeden,.
The water is gushing from  springs now, let us visit the garden.
The flowers are in bloom , let us visit the gaeden.

Now just come once for the feast
My Tulip !
And I shall open my heart ,
In Waiting I remain,
I may not live to see you ,
Pity my plight !
My Love!

( Avtar Mota 13.11.2013............................ )

                                        

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ALBERT CAMUS WOULD HAVE BEEN 100 YEARS OLD IN NOVEMBER 2013.

                                                                   

Albert camus

( 1913-1960 )

ALBERT CAMUS WOULD HAVE BEEN 100 YEARS OLD IN NOVEMBER 2013.

“Autumn is second spring when every leaf is a flower ”

(Albert Camus )

Albert Camus ( Born 7th November 1913 ) would have been 100 years old this year had he not died in the tragic road accident in 1960 .To my readers i would inform that Albert camus died in a road accident On January 4, 1960 more than  five decades  back. Camus was seated in a Facel-Vega sports car with publisher friend Michel Gallimard ,Gallimard's wife and daughter, travelling from Provence to Paris. His family followed him in another car . Outside the village of Petit Villemomble, the car slid off the wet and slippery road and hit a tree .The car must have been in great speed . This accident also killed his publisher and close friend Michel Gallimard.

Camus ( pronounced as Kamoo ) won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1957 and happened to be the second youngest recipient of this prize. For sometime , he considered not accepting it. He felt that  it would have  adverse  impact his writing.

He was a life long smoker and  was always seen holding a cigarette in his hand.. And he wrote most of his books in a standing posture .

My favourite books by this author are..

1 Outsider

2 The Plague

3 The fall.

Camus built and established his reputation as a writer with these three novels , L'Etranger ( Outsider ),La Peste ( The Plague )and La Chute ( The fall ).

Outsider remains my all time faourite . I keep reading this book as and when i lay my hands on it . Possibly the book has special magical quality that attracts me repeatedly .This novel has twice been adapted into film, once by Italian director Luchino Visconti and again by Turkish director Zeki Demirkubuz. The book surely disturbs the reader while making him to ponder over some serious questions with regard to existence . I shall not say more but would suggest every lover of literature to give this book just one reading.

Everyone knows that camus was brought up in extreme poverty and we also know all other stories about his recurring Tuberculosis attacks. His love for Football was deep and philosophical. He played as Goalkeeper and remained an avid Football fan all along his life.

Some one has uploaded  an interview of Camus on You tube. The interview is in French and Camus is possibly watching his favourite game FOOTBALL .Thanks to this great effort , i also saw Camus speaking and also observed his body language .

                                                                  

(Albert Camus (right) with the actors Jean-Louis Barrault and María Casares in Paris( October 1948.) 

Marcelle Maasela who runs the Camus centre informs us that he remains the most read writer in France presently . Those who do not know him are perhaps missing something very  important in literature . Those who never had the glimpse of the Character Meursault he created in his Novel Outsider, perhaps missed a simple earthly Character devoid of heroic deeds living under the sun truthfully . A man who has put himself in the company of truth alone .Truth ,the only God he knows and for whom he is prepared to die happily.

Apart from existential issues , Camus also presents a mother son relation in his novel Outsider . Many are tempted to call the central character Meursault of this novel as camus himself. Some have labeled him as a pessimist . Be it that but surely his pessimism is born out of a living .It is an experience that has been lived and faced . It makes you feel the mastery of this writer over human feelings as they would appear in various situations. Many critics have commented on Meursault's taking food and smoking after coming to know about death of his mother as inhuman acts . Meursault 's refusal to see the face of his dead mother in the mortuary is also construed as an act of a man unworthy of living in a civilized society .He is thus condemned .

Camus's mother in real life was an illiterate lady of Spanish origin . His father was killed in the war when Camus was barely one year old. His mother did odd jobs and mostly worked as unskilled labour . The family lived in extrreme poverty in Algeira ,a french colony at that time.Once a journalist asked him which words were close to his heart . To this camus replied "earth, sky , Sunshine , Mother , man in contact , Poverty and human dignity ." Camus spent many silent moments with his mother . He understood her pain and suffering . Both had reached a level of understanding where nothing needed to be communicated by words .I have seen many photographs of camus with his mother , wife and children holidaying together . Contrary to common beliefs , camus did everything in real life to make her happy .

Camus was also somewhat impressed by Budhist philosophy and Marxism but later he denied it in many interviews .He opposed capital punishment anywhere in the world and joined Arthur Koestler in his LEAGUE AGAINST CAPITAL PUNISHMENT .

Camus was labeled  as an ‘existentialist,’ and he was deeply influenced by Friedrich Nietzsche, Soren Kierkegaard and Fyodor Dostoyesky . Surprisingly , he personally disliked being labeled as an existentialist. Later , he also detested being linked with Absurdism.

His daughter Catherine Camus has done great work not only in preserving her father’s legacy but also in making his ideas known to younger generation of readers World over.

I have much more to say on Camus . May be next time …PEACE BE TO HIS SOUL….

“ In the midst of hate, I found there was, within me, an invincible love.In the midst of tears, I found there was, within me, an invincible smile.In the midst of chaos, I found there was, within me, an invincible calm. I realized, through it all, that…In the midst of winter, I found there was, within me, an invincible summer.

And that makes me happy. For it says that no matter how hard the world pushes against me, within me, there’s something stronger – something better, pushing right back.”

(Albert Camus )

(Autar Mota 11/11/2013 )

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