India and England win !

In a Grand Reversal, England beat Australia to retain the Ashes and India drubbed SA by 87 runs !

Great resiience was displayed by Indians. They were all out for 200 odd and then they came back and bowled SA out for 131 !. Then they batted well for 220 odd and then bowled SA for 215 ! Full marks to ZAK, Sreeshant, Ishant and Bajji !

VVS Laxman, the touch artist, was adjudged Man of the Match, for his great innings of 96, which tilted the match in the tourists' favour !

In the other match, England won hands down. After Australia's capitulation for 98 in the first innings, England scored 513, thanks to Trott scoring 168 not out. Siddle's 6/75 was the only consolation for the Aussies. Then in the second innings Aussies were bundled out for 255. England keep the Ashes ! What happened to the Australian Empire?

In Tests, India is numero uno with 129 points and in ODIs she is No 2 with 121 points.

My trip to Vypeen Islands

Yesterday I had a software installation in Kochi. So I reached Kochi and installed the software in minutes.

When I got out of the Office on Marine Drive, it was 1100 AM. I took a boat to Vypeen Islands. This is my first trip to Vypeen. I had studied at Kochi, at Ernakulam, when I did my PDC, in 1970 and 71. Now Kochi looks vastly different.

The Boat Jetty has been improved by a new building. There are frequent ferry trips to Mattancherry and Fort Kochi. I got a boat to Vypin at 1200 PM. It went via Willingdon Island, an artificial island carved out by Willingdon.

As we neared W Island, one can see the Taj Malabar, the five star hotel. Then the boat moved towards Vypeen.

We can see the giant gantry cranes of Vallarpadam very nearby. Vallarpadam is an island on the Wembanad Lake and is the site of the International Container Transhipment Terminal. The ICTT will be functional within six months time.

The Vypin boat jetty needs a lot of improvement. Near the boat jetty is the Vypeen Bus Stand.

It is a glorious view from Vypeen. We can see Fort Kochi on the other side. Taj Malabar on W Island looked a bit far and Vallarpadam is nearby !.

I then took a bus to Njarakkal, another tourist center. We have a beach at Njarakkal, but the facilities are not developed. Construction of the roads are underway.

There is an Aquatic Club at Njarakkal. You can fish there on the brackish water fish farm. They charge 150 INR per ticket. You can get gorgeous sea food, from the Sea Food Restaurant there. The Aquatic Club is manned by Matsya Fed.

From Njarakkal, I took a bus to the famous Cherai Beach. The beach is a beautiful sight and there are hotels and bars nearby. Cherai Beach seems to be better developed than Njarakkal. I saw more than 50 Westerners, some taking sun bath and others enjoying the sea.

From Cherai, I came to Trichur via the bus route. Last time I had crossed via Jungar, from Munambam ( Ernakulam ) to Azheekode ( Trichur ). This time I came to Kodungalloor without crossing via ferry. There were three bridges, which include the famous Kottappuram bridges, to cross. I reached Trichur within one hour.

Even though I had studied in Kochi, I had not seen the islands fully before. Hence this trip made me more knowledgeable about the spots which are going to develop, as the ICTT becomes operational within June 2011.

Indian batting falters against SA pace !

India were 136/9, in a rain affected pitch at the Centurion. Hats off to the RSA bowlers.

It was the pace and swing of M Morkel ( 4/20 ) and Dale Steyn ( 3/34 ) that did the Indian's in.

In the other match, Mitchell Johnson's 6/38, shattered England's hopes. All that they could muster was only 187, conceding a first innings lead to Australia.

Non stop Cricket fiesta today !

From 0800 AM onwards we have the Ashes live. At 0200 PM, the India SA First Test starts. Non stop cricket for about 12 hours !

Now ( at 0840 AM 0, Aussies are struggling at 28/3. Tremlett removed Hughes and Clarke while Anderson claimed Ponting. Collingwood dived to take an astonishing catch off Ponting. Now Hussey and Watson are at the crease. Tremlett, bowling at around 135 kph, moved the ball both ways.

Strauss took a risky decision to bowl first and his decision was proved right, as both Tremlett and Anderson fired.

ZAK or Zaheer Khan may not play in the first Test, due to injury. This series is a fight for supremacy for the top spot in Tests. If ZAK is not fit, who is going to play instead of him is a good question.

The secret weapon of RSA is pace. Rising sharp delivery which will tear into the Indian batsmen, who have a dislike for the fast, short pitched deliveries. Let us see whether the Indian batsmen are prepared enough to handle South African pace.

Meanwhile TC Mathew, President of KCA, is going to meet the CM for the Edakochi Cricket Stadium. Hopkins Architects of London is going to design the Stadium. In 2011, the IPL matches will be on the GCDA Kochi Stadium, which is only a general stadium, not a cricket stadium. The Edakochi Cricket Stadium will be inaugurated in 2012, when the Kochi IPL matches will be played.

Now Aussies are 47/4. Finn removed Shane Watson. English bowlers are bowling superbly, with lateral movement. What is happening to the Australian Empire ?

Brownwash by India

NZ were defeated comprehensively in the last ODI by eight wickets, as Indian bowlers devastated the NZ batsmen. They bowled them out for 103.

P Kumar drew the first blood when he had Guptill caught behind, when the score was zero. Then Nehra had the dangerous Brendon out leg before. Then the spinners took over ( Ashwin three wickets, Yuvraj two ) and NZ were all out for 103!

India were 10/2, when both Gambhir and Kohli were out cheap. Then Parthiv scored his second consecutive 50 and Yuvraj scored 42 no and the match was over.

A great 5-0 sweep by India !

India is fancied for the 2011 World Cup, according to Vivian Richards.

Now that India had done well against NZ, she also will have to do well against mighty South Africa. It is good that the South African tour is round the corner, as it will give India great preparation for the World Cup. We have the World Cup starting on Feb 12th and the IPL, an equally important event starting on Apr 8th.

Pathan strikes form !

Y Pathan never struck form in ODIs or T20s for India, though he had played some sterling knocks in IPL matches. But yesterday was the day when he struck form.

The hour findeth the man and Y Pathan was the man of the hour. In a great display of scintillating batting, Pathan blasted 7 sixes and 7 fours in a great matchwinning innings of 123 not out.

India were 188/5, needing 316, when S Tiwari walked in to partner Pathan. An unconquered 133 partnership between the two saw India home.

Earlier, a glorious innings by Franklin ( 98 no ) saw NZ finishing at 315/7. The NZ batsmen, away from pressure, attacked the Indian bowlers and 315 is a good score indeed.

India lost two quick wickets, that of the inform Gambhir and Kohli at 68. Yuvraj was out when the score was 103 and Parthiv Patel was out for 53, when the score was 108. Rohit scored a useful 44, but then holed out to Vettori and the score was an abysmal 188.

Then the great partnership began. Tiwari was 37 no off 39 balls, with 2 fours and a six. Pathan's blazing ton, 123 no, was off 96 balls, with seven fours and seven sixes.

Indians are glad Pathan has struck form. His potential is now acutalised and we expect more such thunderous innings from him. As for the young Tiwari, he has withstood immense pressure and came out with flying colors !

Kerala Brand takes off !

Kerala's 40 billion dollar economy, growing at 14% is ranked 9th. She is growing at 14% and contributes 4% to Indian 1.2 tr dollar GDP.

She is at the moment undercapitalised and potential unactualised.

Her software is growing at 40% and Tourism at 25%. ( V S claimed that K's sw exports are now 3000 crores, forgetting that Karnataka's is 30,000 cr ). Her tourism nets in 13000 cr and may go upto 16000 cr or 3.5 billion dollars this year. Kerala is promoting it as Responsible Tourism and Eco Tourism, where the Ecology is preserved for posterity.


Immense growth is forecast with the inception of the Kochi team, as Kerala will be marketed via IPL matches ! Brand Kerala is now in the minds of the Kerala entrepreneurs and Kerala's Ayurveda, Software, Tourism, Yoga and Cuisine will be marketed under the Kerala Brand.

Keralam ennu kettalo thilakkanam..............................

Upto 1980, Kerala was an unknown destination. Then Kerala Tourism developed it. Walter Mendis called Kerala " God's Own Country " and Mike Smith " a heavenly state". The immnense greenery, imparted by the two major monsoons, is the cause of beauteous Kerala.

For more info, pls check Kerala Heritages

Kochi will play in IPL IV

Kochi will be the eighth team to play in IPL IV,which begins from Apr 8th onwards. Rajastan Royals and Punjab were disqualified, but then they had contested that decision and the matter is in court.

The BCCI had cleared the Kochi team, as the Kochi team's ownership had passed scrutiny. The decision was given today afternoon, as the BCCI had deferred the decision by a week.

Down Under, Pietersen's double ton had checked Australi. He is 213 no out,of a massive 551/4 ! Cook scored 148 and England holds the upper hand.

Gambhir 126 no seals the fate of the series !

Gambhir's consecutive hundred sealed the fate of the India NZ series. This is his 9th ODI hundred.

Kohli continued his dazzling form and was 64 no. There were two century partnerships, one between M Vijay and Gambhir and the other between Gambhir and Kohli.

Let us hope India will move up in ICC Rankings. This is the triumph of Young India ! Hats off to the captain, Gambhir !

Yoga Tourism In Kerala

Yoga Therapy has been hailed the world over. Yuj means to unite and Yoga is Union with the Absolute Being.

Yoga is the Science of Man !


Know then thyself, presume not God to scan
The proper study of Mankind is Man !
Placed in the isthmus of a middle state
A being rudely great
With too much knowledge for the sceptic's side
And too many weaknesses for the Stoic's pride
He hangs between !



Yoga is a systematic study of man in his threefold aspect, as Mind, Body and Self. It is the Arts Artium or the Art of all arts and the Scientia Scientiarum, the science of all sciences. It is based on hoary Indian wisdom and culture and is the art of living a healthy, contented, balanced and peaceful life.

The Eightfold Path of Yoga is

Yama Conditional personal and social behaviour, according to Yogic Law
Niyama Attitutue under Yoga norms
Asana Physical Body discipline
Pranayama Breath Control
Pratyahara Senses control
Dharana Concentration
Dhyana Meditation
Samadhi Transcendental Consciousness

The first five are called Hatha Yoga, as it is culturing the physique. The last three are called Raja or Regal Yoga, as it deals with the culturing of the psyche. The first Five represent the Psychosomatic Approach and are referred to External or Bahirangi Yoga. The latter three affects the psyche and are known as Internal or Antaranga Yoga. It is to be noted that the Internal Yoga cannot be done without doing the External Yoga, as purification of body is a prerequisite for Self Actualisation. " Sareeram Adhyam Khalu Dharma Sadhanam", the body is the vehicle for Redemption !


Yoga and TM trigger the Relaxation Response and relaxes you completely. Gone are the strains and the stresses of relativistic life. The physical exercises called Asanas combats stress and keeps the body flexible.


The three physical states of Doing, Thinking and Being are highlighted in Yoga. All that we see is nothing but Universal Matter or Energy, the Adhibouthika aspect of Relative Being. All minds together is the Universal Mind and this is the Adhi Daivata aspect of the Supreme. These are all the manifestations of the Unmanifest and this is Brahman, the Absolute, transcending all relativities.

The destructible aspect is called Adhibootha
He who tenants the body, the Purusha, is Adhi Daivata
Being Absolute is Brahman called
These three are the triune states of Being. ( The Song Celestial, the Geetha )


We can transcend all relativities and reach the Absolute Self, via this great Science of Cosmic Union. This is the union mystica, envisaged by the mystic traditions of all other countries


Some of the Yoga Centers in Kerala which you can visit on Kerala Tours are


Transcendental Meditation Center, Poonkunnam, Trichur

Atmadarshan Yoga-Dhama - Ayur Health Center Fort, Vanciyoour, Sreekaneteswaram & Taycaud in Trivandrum - Dr D Sreekantan Nair Email intyoga(at)yahoo.com

Yoga Holidays at Edakkad Beach Houses, Edakkad Village Beach, Kerala. Email pam(at) bodybalancefunction.co.uk

Hatha Vidya Gurukulam - Neernamukku, Vadakkethara, Pazhayannur, Trichur, Kerala.

International Vasishta Yoga Research Foundation - Calicut, Kerala, S India, 673010. vaiyoga(at) yahoo.co.in

Kaivalyam Retreat, Moolakada, Pallivasal, Munnar, Kerala, 685612

Kasi Yoga Anushtana Kendram, Tulasivanam, N Kurakkanni Jn, Varkala. kasiyoga(at) gmail.com

School of Shanti Yoga, TC 15/1572, M P Appan Road, Vazhuthacaud, Trivandrum 695 014, Kerala. santhischool(at) yahoo.co.in

Sivasoorya Divine School of Yoga, Surya, Vellayani PO, Kerala. info(at)sivasoorya.org

Thulasidalam School of Yoga, Tulasidalam Sree Rama Yogashram, Thelliyoor PO, Near Thiruvalla, Kerala. indiayoga(at)gmail.com

Yoga Vidya Peetham, Varkala Beach in Kerala during winters and Dharmasala during summers. info(at) hathayoga-meditation.com



Sivananada Yoga Vedanta Centre in Trivandrum;

Kollam Yoga Kendra, Uilyakoil, I

deal Yoga Centre Manaltheeram Yoga Centre,

Jawahar Balabhavan and Holistic Eastern Advance Research Temple (Heart) in Kollam;

Prajapathi Yoga center, Kacheripady,

Life Yoga Center, Edapally, Adithya Yoga Institute, Thrikkakara,

Pathanjali Naturopathy & Yoga Clinic, Kaloor

Kerala Yoga Centre, in Kochi, Kerala India.



You can visit these centers and feel the holistic positive energy. Enjoy the healing, divine touch of Yoga.

Ayurvedic Tourism or Medical Tourism

The application of these oils to the body by trained masseurs can give immense stress release to the patient. Various ailments like spondylitis, back injuries, sprains and muscle injuries also can be cured by Ayurvedic massages. You can experience the healing powers of Ayurveda. How true it is said that there is no earthly sorrow which Heaven cannot heal. ( Ayurveda is a heavenly science, as it is Veda, cognised by the Seers in higher states of Consciousness ).

Best suited for Ayurveda's restorative and curative programs are Kerala's equitable climate, natural abundance of forests with a wealth of herbs and medicinal plants and the cool Monsoons season from June to September. Kerala is the only state now in India which practises this ancient, hoary science with dedication. You can rejuvenate your body, mind and soul in the Monsoon Season by taking Ayurvedic treatment at least once in your lifetime in the green ambience of Kerala !

Body rejuvenation treatment can be taken for 7 days or for 14 or 28 days.


Rejuvenation Therapy ( Rasayana Chikitsa )

Two masseurs massage your body with medicated oil and cream, internal rejuvenative medicines and medicated steam bath. This therapy is for 2 hours per day in a treatment period of 7 days. This therapy tones up the skin, strengthens all systems and rejuvenates your body and mind.

Body Purification Therapy ( Shodana Chikitsa )

According to Ayurveda, three humours, vata, pitta and kapha should be in equilibrium and their disequilibrium is disease. Disease means a lack of ease. In Body Purification Therapy, body massages, medicated purgatives, detoxification using enema, steam bath are all done. Herbal drinks and internal herbal medicines are taken in.


The Sree Guruvayurappan Nursing Home in Guruvayur, www.sganh.com and www.ayurtoday.com is one of the oldest of Ayurvedic institutions. Another one is www.zamorins.com.

Ayurveda in Kerala

The Kottakkal Pharmacy, Arya Vaidya Sala and Somatheertham Ayurvedic Resorts are some of the institutions which champion the cause of the Science of Life, Ayurveda, in Kerala.

Ayurveda - The True Health Care

A perfect, ancient science of Life and health care, Ayur means Life and Veda means science. This branch of Medicine succintly explains the scientia of dos and donts one has to follow to lead a holistic healthy life, is holistic in approach, and is good for both physique and psyche. It is curative and restorative and highlights the principle that Prevention is better than Cure.

The prophylactic wing of Ayurveda is known as Naturopathy, even though naturopaths differ about the origin of Naturopathy.


Ayurvedic Theory - The Five Great Elements

The Pancha Maha Bhootas or the Five Great Elements are the basis of not only Life, but of the Universe. Both the Macrocosm ( Universe ) and Microcosm ( Man ) are made up of the Elemental Five, Earth, Water, Fire, Air and Ether. Good equilibrium between the Elemental Five results in good health. On the other hand, disequilibrium is disease.

When the harmony of the Elemental Five is disturbed, the body goes into a state of negative health and this is where the Ayurvedic masseur or the physician steps in. Massage is the most common form of Ayurvedic Therapy and ayurvedic masseurs can be found everywhere. Essential oils and extracts of healing herbs are used in the formulation of Ayurvedic massage oils.

Kerala cuisine is spicy

This standard Keralite breakfast is in tea stalls or corner cafes, where men take in the chai and breakfast, read the morning newspaper and debate over the latest political news. In larger towns and cities, a more generic South Indian breakfast is popular. This is based on the dishes originally devised in the Karnatka pilgrimage center called Udipi. Deep fried savoury doughnuts made of chickpea flur called Vada, and circular steamed rice cakes, called iddlis are served. They come along with Sambar, a sour and hot watery broth or mushed together with chutni, a paste made with ground coconut and chopped green or red chillies.

These idli-vada-sambar breakfasts are available on all hotels and tea stalls, particulary in urban Kerala. All round the clock in railways and bus stations, but then by 1100 AM, they switch to their lunchtime menu.

In the resorts of Kovalam and Varkala, toast, omlettes, museli and banana pancakes are served to the international and domestic tourists. Bread and espresso are available, along with furit salads, veg and non veg cultets.

If you are in a three star hotel, you can get Western food along with the Eastern. Buffetts rule the roost and you can get Western, Chinese or Oriental cuisine, as you prefer.

Midday Meals

Boiled rice, taken along with moru ( buttermilk ) or rasam ( pepper water in which tomatoes are boiled, a sort of soup ), and a wide variety of bolied vegetables constitute the midday meal. Mixed with hot spices, pachadi is a glorious dish, cooked as it is with tiny pieces of mango and mixed with spices. Pulses prepared with vegetables is Sambar, which is more or a less a must for the Keralite. Another dish is thoran, a coconut based dry fish dish. It is mixed with minutely chopped vegetables. Pappadams, crunchy round flakes made up of rice flour and pickles ( mango, lime, fish, prawn, pork, sardine, garlic, tender mango etc ) are a must for the Keralite.

In Islamic establishments, wheat preparations are available. Made from refined flour, parottas and pathiris are spirals, fried in oils and served with curries. Chappattis and pooris are also made from wheat and these are available in almost all hotels in Kerala.

Great Snacks

Abundance of jackfruits, pineapples, mangoes, bananas and custard apples grace Kerala. Alongside evening coffee, snacks like jackfruit or bananachips, and rice flour cookies called Achappam are served normally.

Kerala Cuisine

Kerala, the Land of Spices, is famous for its cuisine. Traditionally, food is served on a banana leaf, but some now serve it on steel plates. Kerala is known for its spicy and hot foods. The Keralite takes food with the right hand.

Almost every dish prepared has coconut and spices to flavour the local cuisine. The use of tamarind heightenes the pungency and coconut gives its richness. Tender coconut water, a natural product in the Land of Coconuts, can be a threat to Coke and Pepsi, as it is a nutritious and refreshing quencher of thirst. Banana chips are to the Keralite mind what potato fries are to the American. Jackfruit chips, banana chips and the crunchy Papadam can give French Fries a run for their money any day.





Kerala cuisine is a mixture of meats, vegetables and seafood flavoured with a variety of spices. The main diet of Coastal Kerala is Seafood and vegetables in the plains of Kerala. Amongst tribals and North Kerala, meat is the main food.




Rice, the main food

Daily diet is mainly rice. Idlis or doshas, rice pancakes, are the main breakfast. Also vadas. Lunch, breakfast or dinner, it is rice preparation of rice in many aspects, served along with a variety of fish. Crustaceans, shrimps, lobsters, prawns are some of the other delicacies.



Breakfast and Morning Meals

Keralites are early risers, particularly women in the villages, who start the day with chai ( tea ) before their daily chores which consist of grinding rice, coconuts and spices for the daily meals. When the kids are up breakfast starts and consits of Poottu - cylinders of roughly pounded rice and coconut steamed together in hollowed out bamboos. Appams or cupped rice pancakes which are soft in the center and sweet bananas are served. A cup of warm tea, along with egg masala, a tasty gravy based on onions and eggs , which is poured over the poottu or appam and eaten with the fingers.

Monsoon Tourism may take off in Kerala

The joy of the monsoons can be seen on everybody's face. Kids dancing in the streets, elders enjoying rains from the balconies of their flats or the sit outs of their homes and women preparing hot vadas and coffee are symbols of the first monsoon rain. Also the sight of people enjoying a common umbrella on the public place. Gone are the days of blistering heat in a tropical country !

A sharp fall in the number of tourists during the Monsoon was the phenomenon of the past. Now Kerala Tourism is working on a new Monsoon campaign to attract tourist during the monsoon season which starts from May 29 and ends on 16th of December ( from Rohini Njattuvela to Thrikketa Njattuvela ). Monsoons in Kerala are the most tantalising in India. With green ambience and plenty of rains, Kerala is the most sought after destination during the rainy season. The state is promoting Ayurvedic or Medical Tourism. The best season for Ayurvedic Healthcare is this season which stretches from June to Decemeber end.

Kerala is fast capturing the attention of international tourists as the prime destination for Monsoon Tourism. With its abundant water reservoirs of natural lakes and waterfalls, the North East region of Kerala is also fast emerging as a hot monsoon destination amongst local as well as international tourists.

Kerala Tourism is working on a schedule of events, which include a Monsoon Food Festival, a Monsoon Music Festival and a Monsoon Theatre Festival to capture the attention of the international tourist. A Monsoon Folklore Festival is also planned, as many of Kerala's diverse arts and folk traditions are associated with the Monsoon.


The romance of the Monsoons, with its green ambience and landscapes and its abundant rains, which have been rhapsodized thoroughout the ages in poetry and music, can be promoted as a "unique" tourist attraction. Special Tourism Packages have been initiated by the Confederation of Indian Industry to cater to the needs of the monsoon season travellers, as monsoons in India are exquisite. Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttaranchal and Sikkim have also been promoted as Monsoon Tourism attraction by the CII. These schemes will result in the Government getting more foreign exchange and provide employment opportunities to locals, as tourism is the numero uno industry in the world.

The two major Monsoons

The South West Monsoon

Known locally as Kala Varsham, the SW Monsoon starts from May 29th, when the Sun enters the 15th degree of Taurus ( Edava Pathi ). Fierce rains characterise this period which stretches upto the end of sidereal month of Leo or the 16th of September. Then we have the sidereal month of Virgo, which is the No Man's Land between the two major - South West and North East Moonsoons !\

The North East Monsoon

Known locally as Thula Varsham, the NE Monsoon starts from the 17th of October and lasts till 16th of December. This is the Retreating Monsoon, as cold winds, travelling at more than 20 kts, pick up moisture from the Bay of Bengal and pours over peninsular India.

Kerala, hot spot for Monsoon Tourism

The joy of the monsoons can be seen on everybody's face. Kids dancing in the streets, elders enjoying rains from the balconies of their flats or the sit outs of their homes and women preparing hot vadas and coffee are symbols of the first monsoon rain. Also the sight of people enjoying a common umbrella on the public place. Gone are the days of blistering heat in a tropical country !

A sharp fall in the number of tourists during the Monsoon was the phenomenon of the past. Now Kerala Tourism is working on a new Monsoon campaign to attract tourist during the monsoon season which starts from May 29 and ends on 16th of December ( from Rohini Njattuvela to Thrikketa Njattuvela ). Monsoons in Kerala are the most tantalising in India. With green ambience and plenty of rains, Kerala is the most sought after destination during the rainy season. The state is promoting Ayurvedic or Medical Tourism. The best season for Ayurvedic Healthcare is this season which stretches from June to Decemeber end.

Kerala is fast capturing the attention of international tourists as the prime destination for Monsoon Tourism. With its abundant water reservoirs of natural lakes and waterfalls, the North East region of Kerala is also fast emerging as a hot monsoon destination amongst local as well as international tourists.

Kerala Tourism is working on a schedule of events, which include a Monsoon Food Festival, a Monsoon Music Festival and a Monsoon Theatre Festival to capture the attention of the international tourist. A Monsoon Folklore Festival is also planned, as many of Kerala's diverse arts and folk traditions are associated with the Monsoon.


The romance of the Monsoons, with its green ambience and landscapes and its abundant rains, which have been rhapsodized thoroughout the ages in poetry and music, can be promoted as a "unique" tourist attraction. Special Tourism Packages have been initiated by the Confederation of Indian Industry to cater to the needs of the monsoon season travellers, as monsoons in India are exquisite. Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttaranchal and Sikkim have also been promoted as Monsoon Tourism attraction by the CII. These schemes will result in the Government getting more foreign exchange and provide employment opportunities to locals, as tourism is the numero uno industry in the world.

The two major Monsoons

The South West Monsoon

Known locally as Kala Varsham, the SW Monsoon starts from May 29th, when the Sun enters the 15th degree of Taurus ( Edava Pathi ). Fierce rains characterise this period which stretches upto the end of sidereal month of Leo or the 16th of September. Then we have the sidereal month of Virgo, which is the No Man's Land between the two major - South West and North East Moonsoons !\

The North East Monsoon

Known locally as Thula Varsham, the NE Monsoon starts from the 17th of October and lasts till 16th of December. This is the Retreating Monsoon, as cold winds, travelling at more than 20 kts, pick up moisture from the Bay of Bengal and pours over peninsular India.

The Sun transits Alpha Scorpi

Today is the day when the Thrikketta Njattuvela or the solar transit of Alpha Scorpi starts. This is the Retreating Monsoon or the Thula Varsha and this Njattuvela may signal the end of the Monsoon season.


The word Monsoon itself makes one happy. The intoxicating smell of the dry parched earth drenched, the splashing waters makes monsoons the favourite season in Kerala. Kerala has been defined as Tropical Wet by the German climatologist Koppen and Monsoon is a refreshing change from the long summer months, when scorching heat and dust ruled the roost. The farmers get relief from the draught like situation and the promise of the rains which heralds prosperity. Enjoy the monsoons of Kerala under Monsoon Tourism.

Never to be wasted indoors is this enchanting seasons of raindrops and rainbows. Monsoon gives everything to you in fresh as the special season of the year. Monsoon is not all packed up in rain coats. On the contrary, they are fun time. Splashing and swimming in knee deep waters and getting wet are some of the pastimes intended for you by the grace of the monsoons. You can take out an Ayurvedic Vacation during Monsoon. Monsoon is the season recommended by Ayurveda for Rejuvenation Therapy. You can rejuvenate your soul and replenish your body during the Monsoon season. Monsoon is the true season for rejuvenation, when people take ayurvedic remedies, detoxificaton etc to purge the body of toxins and rejuvenate the tissues. Various diseases can be cured, if the body is detoxified and rejuvenated, averrs Ayurveda.

The solar transit of Alpha Scorpi starts today

Today is the day when the Thrikketta Njattuvela or the solar transit of Alpha Scorpi starts. This is the Retreating Monsoon or the Thula Varsha and this Njattuvela may signal the end of the Monsoon season.


The word Monsoon itself makes one happy. The intoxicating smell of the dry parched earth drenched, the splashing waters makes monsoons the favourite season in Kerala. Kerala has been defined as Tropical Wet by the German climatologist Koppen and Monsoon is a refreshing change from the long summer months, when scorching heat and dust ruled the roost. The farmers get relief from the draught like situation and the promise of the rains which heralds prosperity. Enjoy the monsoons of Kerala under Monsoon Tourism.

Never to be wasted indoors is this enchanting seasons of raindrops and rainbows. Monsoon gives everything to you in fresh as the special season of the year. Monsoon is not all packed up in rain coats. On the contrary, they are fun time. Splashing and swimming in knee deep waters and getting wet are some of the pastimes intended for you by the grace of the monsoons. You can take out an Ayurvedic Vacation during Monsoon. Monsoon is the season recommended by Ayurveda for Rejuvenation Therapy. You can rejuvenate your soul and replenish your body during the Monsoon season. Monsoon is the true season for rejuvenation, when people take ayurvedic remedies, detoxificaton etc to purge the body of toxins and rejuvenate the tissues. Various diseases can be cured, if the body is detoxified and rejuvenated, averrs Ayurveda.

Eco Tourism in Kerala

There are many number of definitions of Ecotourism,
each highlighting different aspects. It is to be noted
that different parameters emerged in common to all eco
tourism developmental initiatives.

Eco Tourism may be defined as that

Which is based on Nature
Where interpretation and education are important
components
Which is sustainable ecologically
Which benefits the local people.

If any of these components are not satisfied, such a
venture cannot be classified as an Eco Tourism venture !

Tourism, without well thought out plans and managed
programs, can mean the destruction of the natural habitat.
Also the cultural shock concomitant with interaction with
various cultures can also put the locals in danger.

Stipulation of certain standarss and awareness campaigns
amongst tour operators and travel agents reduces considerably
this impact. Eco Tourism,therefore, is considered as a solution
to tourism related environmental problems.

The region of the Western Ghats of Kerala, with its tropical
forest ecocystem, provides the natural advantage for this
division of InternationalTourism. In order to develop the
immense potential of Kerala Tourism, our tourism products
diversification is essential. Hence Western Ghats can be
projected as the Eco Tourism Zone of Kerala. Eco Tourism
adumbrates the concept of sustainability in Tourism. Future
generatoins are protected, as the needs of the now a day
visitor is transformed with Green Education !


The Present Situation

The major tourism destinations can be classified as beaches,
wild life sanctuaries, backwaters, hill stations, and festivals
which represent culture. Kerala will have to upgrade its products
and provide infrastructural facilities. There is no system at
present through which the public can see the forest and have a
lasting,quality experience. The visits to sanctuary, which is
widely practised now, cannot be called as ecotourism. It is
only mass tourism to a sanctuary. A more concentrated strategy,
which is small group oriented and supply driven, is the need of
the hour.

Those in charge should provide education and provision for
learning process for the tourists, as Tourism needs close
monitoring in an ecologically sensitive area.It is imperative
that Tourism be ecologically sustainable. The economic benefit
should benefit the locals to ensure sustainability.

Eco Tourism

Serene natural habitats are marketed and this is known as Eco Tourism, a branch of International Tourism. Nature and her pristine beauty is highlighted and Tourism without damaging Nature is encouraged.

Natural Philosophy, championed by Goethe and others, point out that Nature is the main efficient cause. While God is still invisible, the only visible manifestation is Nature.

I follow two philosophers this way

It was Nature, Nature, all I heard them say ! ( The Faust - Goethe )

Aimed to provide awareness to the tourists about the wisdom of Nature and the protective functions of the forests, Eco Tourism is educational in nature.

The guide and the tourist visit the naturally beauteous areas for understanding the cultural and natural history of environment, but taking care not to change or alter the integrity of the ecosystem. At the same time, this safe tourism provides economic opportunities to the local inhabitants, who also join in the green Conservation Movement !

It can also be defined as environmentally conscious tourism and not a search of pristine locations

It has to be sustainable with the continous capacity to

Safeguard natural environment, which is the base of tourist attraction

Maintian and provide the quality of the satisfaction of the tourists , thus benefiting the locals in the area.

Gambhir lofts India to victory

A great innings by the skipper Gambhir saw India home. Gambhir scored 138 no, Kohli, 64 and M Vijay, 33.

It was Sreeshant's swing which did the New Zealanders in. Sreeshant was the pick of the bowlers and confounded the NZ batsmen with his controlled swing. He took 4/47 ! NZ could only muster 258 and India scored 259/2 !

It is time NZ improved their bowling performance. India is formidable on Indian soil. Now India leads 2-0 in the five match series.

The Indian batsmen seem to be not at all bothered about NZ bowling. NZ attack must be more penetrative !

Indian bowlers should be complimented the way they came back, after some lacklustre performance in the first two Tests. In the last Test and the two ODIs, they came back strongly, thanks to Sreeshant and Co !

Climate Change dangerous for Kerala

There are many who fear that the sea may very well devour Kochi, within 25 years

Rising sea levels are a big concern to those living in the coastal areas. Global Warming theorists say that 1.5 meters of coast will be devoured by the sea, if the rise is 1 mm. By 2030, the rise will be 72 mm more and 108 meters will be devoured by the sea. A bitter truth ?

The cold winds from the ocean determines both Kala Varsha ( The S W Monsoon ) and the Thula Varsha ( the North East ) Monsoons.

If the wind speed is 12 kt, then the intensity of the Kala Varsha or the South West Monsoon will be less than half ! If more than 20, the Kala Varsha will be 150% and if it is more than 28 kt, the Kala Varsha will be 400%.

Climate Change has altered the speeds of Winds and we find that sometimes the SW Monsoon is intense and sometimes it is not !

Lands 8 meters below the sea level are under threat. Not only Kochi, but the coastal areas of Trichur, Calicut, Trivandrum etc are under threat. It is to be noted that some great complexes of Kerala, like Naval Academy of Tvm, the Naval Base of Kochi, the Cochin Airport, Kochi ePort and Tvm Airport are all under threat !

Kohli dazzles in Indian win

V Kohli hit a brilliant 105 and pulled India to victory, in the first ODI against NZ.

He was helped by Yuvraj (42). India scored 276 and NZ fell short of the target by 40 runs.

This was his second hundred in a row and his fourth overall. India is yet to lose an international this season.

The hour findeth the man and it was Kohli today, as he drove, hooked and cut fiercely to race towards his hundred !

NZ was in total disarray when they batted. Howe was out to Nehra when the score was 38. Ross Taylor played a gem of an innings (66), before holing out to Patel off Ashwin. The offie took 3 wickets. So also did Sreeshant.

NZ wanted 40 more runs with 2 wickets in hand, when Sreeshant got Nathan McCullum. It was a superb catch by Gambhir which did McCullum in. NZ was threatening to take the match away from India's hands when Sreeshant struck twice. Mills tried to loft Sreeshant but ended up giving a catch to the wicketkeeper, Saha ! Sreeshant finished the game in two balls and India won hands down !

Climate Change and Astro Meteorology

Successive draughts, intense cold climate and floods have ravaged Bolivia. Let us hope that Kerala will not go the way of Bolivia !

That Bolivia is going towards a major Food Crisis has been highlighted by the Food and Agricultural Organisation of UN.

16000 cattle, 24000 hectares of wheat, corn fields etc will perish in Bolivia. Bolivia will not be able to absorb this crisis of a high magnitude. One fifth of Bolivia is stll reeling under the impact of Climate Change. FAO warns that all natural calamities except cyclones will have to be faced by Bolivia.

The agriculturists are always affected by Climate Change. Traditional agriculture gets destroyed by intense rains or drastic draughts. The agriculturist lives in debt and dies in debt. He is forced to stop his agriculture or fall into the debt trap !

That which is happening in Bolivia may happen in India and Kerala.

Normally Libra rains start in the evening, drizzle at night and before dawn stops raining. Now the climate patterns have changed and intense rains destroyed 5000 acres of paddy fields this season ! All seeds were destroyed and Keralites had to go to Madras to get the seeds. If the earlier patterns were followed - bright sunny days after the intense downpour - then the water would have drained itself from the paddy fields.

Heat also has changed its patterns. It is now 40 degrees at Palghat and the lowest temperature recorded is 22 degrees. In Nilgiriis, rising heat has created red spiders . 8% crop has been destroyed as a result. Red spiders attack the tea plantations which are devoid of huge trees.

There are many paddy fields in Kerala which does not produce, despite the intense work done by the agriculturists.

In Alleppey Dist, when temperature rose 1.8 degrees, there was a reduction in weight of the produce. The rising temperature during the months of January, February and March was the villain. The rice fields of Trichur and Palghat were also considerably affected.

Pepper cultivation is also affected. Weight also comes down. Also cocoa, tea etc in the highlands. In 2004, cocoa produce came down by 39%. Rubber produce declined by 3.8%. . In Kottyam, the highest temperature recorded was 33.3% and now it is 35% ! Because of intense heat and cold, more funguses made their way into rubber. Cashew has also been affected adversely by Climate Change. There is a drop in the produce by 30%. Kerala, which was first in cashewnut production, is now only fourth !

Palghat Dist, bordering Tamil Nadu, looks like the hot TN !. 41 degrees have been reported as the highest temperature. If you go to Chittoor in Palghat, you will come to know how different Palghat looks than the rest of Kerala. Paddy cultivation has come down in Palghat. Palghat gets more North East Monsoon than South West Monsoon !

Kerala may go the way of Bolivia !

Successive draughts, intense cold climate and floods have ravaged Bolivia. Let us hope that Kerala will not go the way of Bolivia !

That Bolivia is going towards a major Food Crisis has been highlighted by the Food and Agricultural Organisation of UN.

16000 cattle, 24000 hectares of wheat, corn fields etc will perish in Bolivia. Bolivia will not be able to absorb this crisis of a high magnitude. One fifth of Bolivia is stll reeling under the impact of Climate Change. FAO warns that all natural calamities except cyclones will have to be faced by Bolivia.

The agriculturists are always affected by Climate Change. Traditional agriculture gets destroyed by intense rains or drastic draughts. The agriculturist lives in debt and dies in debt. He is forced to stop his agriculture or fall into the debt trap !

That which is happening in Bolivia may happen in India and Kerala.

Normally Libra rains start in the evening, drizzle at night and before dawn stops raining. Now the climate patterns have changed and intense rains destroyed 5000 acres of paddy fields this season ! All seeds were destroyed and Keralites had to go to Madras to get the seeds. If the earlier patterns were followed - bright sunny days after the intense downpour - then the water would have drained itself from the paddy fields.

Heat also has changed its patterns. It is now 40 degrees at Palghat and the lowest temperature recorded is 22 degrees. In Nilgiriis, rising heat has created red spiders . 8% crop has been destroyed as a result. Red spiders attack the tea plantations which are devoid of huge trees.

There are many paddy fields in Kerala which does not produce, despite the intense work done by the agriculturists.

In Alleppey Dist, when temperature rose 1.8 degrees, there was a reduction in weight of the produce. The rising temperature during the months of January, February and March was the villain. The rice fields of Trichur and Palghat were also considerably affected.

Pepper cultivation is also affected. Weight also comes down. Also cocoa, tea etc in the highlands. In 2004, cocoa produce came down by 39%. Rubber produce declined by 3.8%. . In Kottyam, the highest temperature recorded was 33.3% and now it is 35% ! Because of intense heat and cold, more funguses made their way into rubber. Cashew has also been affected adversely by Climate Change. There is a drop in the produce by 30%. Kerala, which was first in cashewnut production, is now only fourth !

Palghat Dist, bordering Tamil Nadu, looks like the hot TN !. 41 degrees have been reported as the highest temperature. If you go to Chittoor in Palghat, you will come to know how different Palghat looks than the rest of Kerala. Paddy cultivation has come down in Palghat. Palghat gets more North East Monsoon than South West Monsoon !

Global Warming and change in climate

Climatologists are of the opinion that the quantity of rains have not come down in Kerala. On the other hand, rainy days have declined. Now there are fierce downpours and sunny interludes. Fierce rains are defined as rains which give 20 cms of rain in one hour. Such fierce rains have increased and sunny days have also increased. This Climate Change is caused by Global Warming.

In 2008, in Kuttanad, such rains created havoc, destroying crops. Such rains continued this year, during both the Monsoons, the North East and the South West. Depressions caused these rains. The snowfall in Idukki caused destruction in cardamom crops. Climatologist view these happenings as unnatural phenomena. During some years, the intensity of the South West Monsoon becomes less. Not only Kerala, but Jharkhand, Chattisghand are also adversely affected.

It is said the dogs need not check the Astro Calender to know which is the sidereal month of Virgo or Kanya. It is also proof that time for procreation and Climate are interlinked. Kanya or the sidereal month of Virgo is the interlude between the two major monsoons and is devoid of rains. Less daylight and more the duration of night characterise this sidereal month. This is the month dogs find it easy to mate. This month stimulates the procreational urge in dogs and they instinctively that this is the month for mating. The cause is attributed to the Bio Clock mechanism in dogs. Female dogs give birth only after 60/70 days. By that time the Kala Varsha or the Sourth West Monsoon will be over. The young ones will get the right atmosphere for growing. That is why Nature gave dogs such a benign month.

This year the Kala Varsha continued during the month of Kanya with the result the procreational cycle of dogs is adversely affected. The dogs ran here and thereby their mating declined ! The physiological processes of dogs is affected by Climate Change. Now dogs that are born have less weight and this phenomenon has been observed in Alsation dogs particularly.

The intensity of the rains have increased with the result fierce rains wreaked havoc on Agriculture. The rainwater does not seep through the earth and hence there are less wells and water reservoirs. Floods have increased considerably.

Another phenomenon is the retreat of the monsoons. In July/ August of 2002, less rains caused draught. It used to be 21% rainfall during June, 33% in July, 28% in August and 18% in Sep.

Now Climate Change has changed all that. More sunny interludes have been reported in July. This phenomenon has increased by 30% due to the the wind waves of the South West Monsoon going to the bottom of the Himalayas.

For the last 15 years, oreographic precipiation or rains in the hilly areas, have declined by 20%. Lesser and lesser amount of rains are reported every year.

Deforestation is the cause for less rains in Peerumedu and Nerumangalam. The mountains do block the cold wind waves coming from the Indian Ocean and cause precipitation.

In short, Global Warming's repercussions on Climate can be drastic. We hope furthur negative reports do not come from the Climatologists !

Global Warming causes Climate Change in Kerala

Climatologists are of the opinion that the quantity of rains have not come down in Kerala. On the other hand, rainy days have declined. Now there are fierce downpours and sunny interludes. Fierce rains are defined as rains which give 20 cms of rain in one hour. Such fierce rains have increased and sunny days have also increased. This Climate Change is caused by Global Warming.

In 2008, in Kuttanad, such rains created havoc, destroying crops. Such rains continued this year, during both the Monsoons, the North East and the South West. Depressions caused these rains. The snowfall in Idukki caused destruction in cardamom crops. Climatologist view these happenings as unnatural phenomena. During some years, the intensity of the South West Monsoon becomes less. Not only Kerala, but Jharkhand, Chattisghand are also adversely affected.

It is said the dogs need not check the Astro Calender to know which is the sidereal month of Virgo or Kanya. It is also proof that time for procreation and Climate are interlinked. Kanya or the sidereal month of Virgo is the interlude between the two major monsoons and is devoid of rains. Less daylight and more the duration of night characterise this sidereal month. This is the month dogs find it easy to mate. This month stimulates the procreational urge in dogs and they instinctively that this is the month for mating. The cause is attributed to the Bio Clock mechanism in dogs. Female dogs give birth only after 60/70 days. By that time the Kala Varsha or the Sourth West Monsoon will be over. The young ones will get the right atmosphere for growing. That is why Nature gave dogs such a benign month.

This year the Kala Varsha continued during the month of Kanya with the result the procreational cycle of dogs is adversely affected. The dogs ran here and thereby their mating declined ! The physiological processes of dogs is affected by Climate Change. Now dogs that are born have less weight and this phenomenon has been observed in Alsation dogs particularly.

The intensity of the rains have increased with the result fierce rains wreaked havoc on Agriculture. The rainwater does not seep through the earth and hence there are less wells and water reservoirs. Floods have increased considerably.

Another phenomenon is the retreat of the monsoons. In July/ August of 2002, less rains caused draught. It used to be 21% rainfall during June, 33% in July, 28% in August and 18% in Sep.

Now Climate Change has changed all that. More sunny interludes have been reported in July. This phenomenon has increased by 30% due to the the wind waves of the South West Monsoon going to the bottom of the Himalayas.

For the last 15 years, oreographic precipiation or rains in the hilly areas, have declined by 20%. Lesser and lesser amount of rains are reported every year.

Deforestation is the cause for less rains in Peerumedu and Nerumangalam. The mountains do block the cold wind waves coming from the Indian Ocean and cause precipitation.

In short, Global Warming's repercussions on Climate can be drastic. We hope furthur negative reports do not come from the Climatologists !

Global Warming and Astro Meteorology

There was a CMFRI ( Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute of India ) report that Global Warming affects fish production.

Co2 emissions are more. The Carbon Dioxide combines with ocean water and forms Carbolic Acid. This increases the acidity levels of the ocean water and affects fish.

The Sea Surface Temperature (SST) goes up due to GW and this affects fish. Fish tend to go to colder areas.

The SST has gone up. In 1962, the SST was 28.3 and in 2007, it is 28.94 !

In fact, the quanity of fish has not come down. It is because of the burgeoning population - 1.2 billion in India and more consumption, that it seems to be so. Some species of fish disappeared. Some moved away to other areas.

In Kerala, from 1960 to 1984, fish production increased threefold due to technology, more education and good nets. But then after 1990, it has not gone up. After 1992, there was not much tuna catch. Mackerels catch also declined significantly. Sardines catch only increased marginally.

Catfish production also declined. Catfish has moved from Trichur but is available in Calicut District. Sharks also have disappered from the Trichur coast.

The heat above the surface of the ocean will be more before the South West Monsoon and will come down during the SW Monsoon. For the last 41 years, a different phenomenon has been observed. The temperature during the Monsoon season was 27.16 and now it is 28. 46!

Sardines are available on the Kerala coast after the Monsoons. Mackerel is available during the monsoons. The difference in temperature is responsible for this.

The difference in temperature is the cause for the change in habitat for fish. Ghee sardines and macekerels, which are found in less deep waters, move towards colder areas when they experience heat. There are also fish which move towards deeper waters. Mackerels which were never caught in deep waters before. are now available in deep waters. Different types of fish survive in different temperatures and GW changes the fish production equation !

The food which is eaten by the fish is also affected by the rise in temperature. Phytoplankton is the main food of fish. The Co2 is absorbed by Phytoplankton and food is prepared. The rising temperature destroys the Phytoplankton thus affecting the food of the fish ! Fish cannot survive due to the destruction of the Phytoplankton ! Some small plants grow rapidly due to the increasing heat, which cannot be eaten by fish ! During some seasons, phytoplanktons grow rapidy and gets destroyed. This also affects fish !

That the ocean becomes orange and red has been reported. This is due to certain phytoplanktons spreading. Some species of fish become more and some less. Poisionous plants become more and this adversely affects fish !

Let us hope GW will not devastate furthur !

G W has also affected astro meteorological patterns. Kerala received 56% more rains during this Monsoon season. Intense rains destroys crops and agri lands were indundated.

Global Warming and its effects on Kerala

There was a CMFRI ( Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute of India ) report that Global Warming affects fish production.

Co2 emissions are more. The Carbon Dioxide combines with ocean water and forms Carbolic Acid. This increases the acidity levels of the ocean water and affects fish.

The Sea Surface Temperature (SST) goes up due to GW and this affects fish. Fish tend to go to colder areas.

The SST has gone up. In 1962, the SST was 28.3 and in 2007, it is 28.94 !

In fact, the quanity of fish has not come down. It is because of the burgeoning population - 1.2 billion in India and more consumption, that it seems to be so. Some species of fish disappeared. Some moved away to other areas.

In Kerala, from 1960 to 1984, fish production increased threefold due to technology, more education and good nets. But then after 1990, it has not gone up. After 1992, there was not much tuna catch. Mackerels catch also declined significantly. Sardines catch only increased marginally.

Catfish production also declined. Catfish has moved from Trichur but is available in Calicut District. Sharks also have disappered from the Trichur coast.

The heat above the surface of the ocean will be more before the South West Monsoon and will come down during the SW Monsoon. For the last 41 years, a different phenomenon has been observed. The temperature during the Monsoon season was 27.16 and now it is 28. 46!

Sardines are available on the Kerala coast after the Monsoons. Mackerel is available during the monsoons. The difference in temperature is responsible for this.

The difference in temperature is the cause for the change in habitat for fish. Ghee sardines and macekerels, which are found in less deep waters, move towards colder areas when they experience heat. There are also fish which move towards deeper waters. Mackerels which were never caught in deep waters before. are now available in deep waters. Different types of fish survive in different temperatures and GW changes the fish production equation !

The food which is eaten by the fish is also affected by the rise in temperature. Phytoplankton is the main food of fish. The Co2 is absorbed by Phytoplankton and food is prepared. The rising temperature destroys the Phytoplankton thus affecting the food of the fish ! Fish cannot survive due to the destruction of the Phytoplankton ! Some small plants grow rapidly due to the increasing heat, which cannot be eaten by fish ! During some seasons, phytoplanktons grow rapidy and gets destroyed. This also affects fish !

That the ocean becomes orange and red has been reported. This is due to certain phytoplanktons spreading. Some species of fish become more and some less. Poisionous plants become more and this adversely affects fish !

Let us hope GW will not devastate furthur !

G W has also affected astro meteorological patterns. Kerala received 56% more rains during this Monsoon season. Intense rains destroys crops and agri lands were indundated.

India keep Numero Uno Position

India beat NZ by an innings and 198 runs, as the Indian bowlers bowled out NZ for 175 in the second innings. India won series 1-0 !

India is No 1 in ICC Test Rankings with 129 points.

Sreeshant bowled well but without luck. Ishant took 3/15, and Bajji 3/56, as India won easily.

Now the ODI series, a five ODI match series, begin on Sunday.

Rains lash Kerala as Sun transits Delta Scorpi

Meteorology may say it is a depression in the Bay of Bengal called La Nina which is responsible for the rains, but to those well versed in Astro Meteorology, it is the Sun's transit of Scorpio and the constellation of Delta Scorpi, which is the cause, as heavy rains lashed Trichur. From 0500 PM it was raining till 1100 PM, when I went to sleep.

According to Meteorology, La Nina is a coupled ocean-atmosphere phenomenon of El Nino, as a part of the El Nino Southern Oscillation Climate pattern. La Nina is defined as the dialectial opposite of El Nina !

These depressions happen only during the Monsoon season, when the Sun transits the constellations from Eta Tauri to Alpha Scorpi ! So Astro Meteorology is right !

Why do these depression not happen during the summer season?

Climate Change, triggered by Global Warming, is creating havoc throughout the world. Sea levels rose by 1.8 mms from 1961 to 2003. All snowy mountains are melting. Co2 levels are increasing. Forest fires increased. When hot air creates lightning, forest fires are more. More cyclones and thunderstorms. Extreme climatic patterns are produced. More floods and more draughts than usual.

Anizham Njattuvela wreaks havoc !

Meteorology may say it is a depression in the Bay of Bengal called La Nina which is responsible for the rains, but to those well versed in Astro Meteorology, it is the Sun's transit of Scorpio and the constellation of Delta Scorpi, which is the cause, as heavy rains lashed Trichur. From 0500 PM it was raining till 1100 PM, when I went to sleep.

According to Meteorology, La Nina is a coupled ocean-atmosphere phenomenon of El Nino, as a part of the El Nino Southern Oscillation Climate pattern. La Nina is defined as the dialectial opposite of El Nina !

These depressions happen only during the Monsoon season, when the Sun transits the constellations from Eta Tauri to Alpha Scorpi ! So Astro Meteorology is right !

Why do these depression not happen during the summer season?

Climate Change, triggered by Global Warming, is creating havoc throughout the world. Sea levels rose by 1.8 mms from 1961 to 2003. All snowy mountains are melting. Co2 levels are increasing. Forest fires increased. When hot air creates lightning, forest fires are more. More cyclones and thunderstorms. Extreme climatic patterns are produced. More floods and more draughts than usual.

All Indian batsmen become successful

India scored 292/2 and took a 99 run lead. NZ could only take two Indian wickets, as Sehwag and Gambhir scored 113 for the first wicket and Dravid and Sachin scored half centuries to give India a commendable lead.

Now all Indians are expectant about Sachin's 50th Test hundred. Will it happen today? That seems to be the million dollar question !

North East Monsoon causes havoc in Kerala

Libra rains are proving destructive in Kerala. The North East Monsoon starts from early October and ends in December end.

Kerala received 65 cms of rain in 2010, in contrast to the 42 cms received in 2009. This is adverse for Agriculture. Kerala has received the maximum Libra rains this year.
Maximum rains have been reported in Trichur Dist. It is 102% more than the average and Cannanore is the nearest district which has received good amount of rainfall.

The depression formed in the Bay of Bengal, along with whirlwinds are the causes for the intensity of the Libra Monsoon or Thula Varsham, says the Trivandrum Meteorological Dept.

In North Kerala, heavy rains have triggered floods and it has hurt the agricultural sector. More than 15000 acres have been indundated. These rains will hurt mangoes and cashewnut production. Rubber also is adversely affected. Tapping has become difficult due to heavy rains. Floods are creating havoc in Kuttanad, the rice bowl of Kerala. Even in the summer, vegetable production will be affected.

On the positive side, these rains will reduce the intensity of the draught in the coming summer months of Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces.

Climate Change good for Kerala

A Study Committee has reported that Climate Change in Kerala will improve coconut prouction by 30%. Also there will be more sardines and mackarels.

The name sardine is derived from the word " Sardina " which is an island. Sardines are inexpensive protein. Now ghee sardines or oily sardines are sardines full of oil. You dont need oil to fry them, as they have enough oil. Now there will be more oily sardines on the Western Coast due to Climate Change (which is triggered by Global Warming ).

Due to ocean water becoming hot and favourable sea breezes, oily sardines will be more. Indian mackarels will be more, as the surface ocean becomes hot.

While the entire world is worried about Global Warming and Climate Change, this is good news for Kerala. This report was released by the Environment Committee. Within 20 years, there will be a marked climate change and these are the fresh changes which will be triggered. Kerala coconut production will increase by 30% and sardines will be more during the South West Monsoon season and mackarels will be more during the months in between October and March !

McCullum blocks Indian offensive !

McCullum's 225 blocked the Indian invasion ! Draw seems to be the result.

There was another glorious innings today, as Gayle smashed 331 not out off the hapless Lankans !

India could not take 20 wickets. Where is Bajji, the bowler ?

Bajji scores hundred again !

Bajji scored his second consecutive hundred and put on a century partnership with Sreekanth. He is on 110 and India are 471/9! He became the first man to score back to back centuries at No 8 !

The hour findeth the man and India are producing more heroes.

The Indian innings finally ended at 472, when Vettori trapped Sreesanth leg before for 24. It is another five for for Vettori.

The tenth wicket partnership produced 105 runs, the third biggest for India. On rare occasions does the Indian tail wag !

Bajji's punitive knock, embellished with seven sixes and seven fours, staved off a possible defeat for India. Now the NZ openers are solid, with the score at 37/0.

NZ has progressed to 237/4, thanks to McCullum, who is unbeaten on 124. NZ leads by 115 runs.

A glorious 160 run opening partnership

Gambhir and Sehwag posted 160 on the scoreboard, before Sehwag was bowled by Vettori for 96. Gambhir departed later at 54. Sachin went out cheap and now India are 257/3, with Laxman and Dravid in their 40's.

Earlier good bowling by India reduced the Kiwis to 350. India seems to have a grip on the match, with Raina and Dhoni to follow in batting.

Now India has progressed to 307/4, with Laxman going strong on 80. As solid as the Rock of Gibraltar ! Raina is on 18 and it looks that India may take the first innings lead.

Indians were a bit disappointed that Sachin was out cheap and the Sehwag fell short of a century. But then that is cricket, an unpredictable game of glorious uncertainties !

India now leads with 86 runs on the first innings, as Bajji hits a blistering 85 not out, with 5 sixes and seven fours ! Laxman perished at 74 and Bajji now has put India in the driver's seat. Bajji is in ominous form with the bat, following his century earlier. All Indians hope that he may complete a hundred tomorrow !

The 8th wicket fell at 367 and then Sreesanth gave Bajji the much needed support. They have now put on 69 runs for the tenth wicket !

The solar transit of Beta Librae proves destructive !

Fierce rains, accompanied by thunder and lightning, was the characteristic of Vishakha Jnattuvela or the Sun's transit of Beta Librae.

This is Thula Varsha or the North East Retreating Monsoon. Great thunder and lightning at Trichur and I couldnt work on my PC or watch Tv at night.

In Cherpu of Trichur, more than 400 acres of agriculture was destroyed by the rains, the rains of Life and Death.

The Monsoon season in Kerala is about to end and will end with Thrikketa Jnattuvela or the end of the sidereal month of Scorpio. From Sagittarius onwards, it is the hot season and farmers will have to water their lands till the 15th of Edava or Taurus, which heralds the South West Monsoon.

When the Retreating Monsoon ( N E Monsoon ) ends, there is no sigh of relief in this Tropical Zone or Torrid Zone, situated at 10.30 degrees north latitude, as nobody likes the blistering hot season. More than 100 people died due to sunstroke last summer !

Bajji cracks ton, redeems India !

It was again that master second innings batsman, Laxman, ably supported by the centurion, Bajji that saved India ! A record 163 run partnership !

India was down in the dumps at 65/6 and then a great partnership between these two swung the game in India's favour. There was not much time left and so the match ended in a draw.

Dravid surpasses Bradman

By scoring his 30th Test hundred, the Wall has surpassed the mighty Bradman ! Sehwag cracked his 22nd hundred, a blistering 174 !

India finished with 329/3 on the first day, against a weak New Zealand attack. 174 was blasted by Sehwag, off the hapless NZ bowlers !

Sachin not out on 13 raises hopes of a 50th Test hundred by that veteran. All India is anxiously looking at that 50th century.

India move to No 2 spot in ODIs

India won the ODI series 1/0 against Australia, as the Goa ODI was abandoned due to rain. Same thing had happened to the Kochi ODI.

India with 117 points is now at No 2, behind Australia with 130 points.

In Tests, India has 130 points and is poised at No 1. Interesting stats, which boosts the morale of the Indians !

Indians are thrilled at the way the youngsters won the last ODI against Australia, sans Tendulkar and Gambhir ! The way Kohli and Raina rose to the occasion showed the resilience of the Indians !

Let us hope Indians will keep up the same spirits, while trying to redeem India economically !

Four great match winning innings of late !

India powered her way into world cricket with four astounding wins !

First Laxman spearheaded the new Indian surge with a 103 not out, thus paving the way for a great win over Lanka !

He again with 73 no, powered India to a one wicket win over the redoubtable Aussies !

Then Sachin with his magic wand, with exemplary innningses of 214 and 53 not out, destroyed the mighty Aussies ! His innings was poetry in motion ! India won the series 2-0.

Now Virat Kohli. He came in when India was 0/1 and needing 291 to win. When he left, India were 254/4 ! India had almost won when he left. His 118 off 121 balls will be remembered for a long time !

Now Indians are rising to the occasion, exhibiting cool temparament and presence of mind. These factors were sadly missing from the Indian equation in the pre-Dhoni era !

May India continue her surge !

Kohli & Raina loft India to victory !

The hour findeth the man and the man today proved to be Virat Kohli. A blistering 118 off 121 balls and India was in the drivers's seat when he left.

India lost Dhawan and Vijay cheap but then Yuvraj with a half century (58) and Kohli with a ton retrieved the situation for India.

Raina's 71 no off 47 balls was simply superb. Tiwari was tied for a while, but then broke the cordon with 2 fours.

A magnificent run chase ! Needing 290 for victory, India finished at 292/5. At one situation, they were 35/2 !

Earlier neither Clarke's century nor the lusty hitting of C White could save Australia. 290 is not a bad score but then the Indians were simply outstanding !

North East Monsoon starts today ( Thula Varsham )

The Sun entered the first degree of Sidereal Libra, thus heralding the North East Monsoon or Thula Varsham, as per Astro Meteorology.

This is the Retreating Monsoon. Coming as a depression from the Bay of Bengal, it takes the moisture laden winds and then sweep down on the Himalayas and Indo Gangetic plains, and then pours over peninsular India ! Mainly caused by the heat generated by the overhead Sun on the Tropic of Capricorn. The places of the Indian Ocean becomes hot and the northern parts of India become cool. Cool winds from the Bay of Bengal cause this and the result is Thula Varsham !

Expected to rain till the end of the sidereal month of Vrischika or Scorpio, NEM is a boon to states like Tamil Nadu. Kerala gets both SWM and NEM !

Sachin and Pujara pull India to victory

The hour findeth the man and C Pujara emerged as a hero. Needing 207 to win, India won by seven wickes, thanks to C Puara ( 72 ) and the Master Blaster ( 53 no ).

A new star has zoomed on the horizon. Pujara is a prolific scorer in domestic cricket and one can say he lived upto his reputation.

Sachin complete his 58th fifty and almost singlehandedly won the match for Inda. In Two Tests, he has more than 401 runs.

India is the No 1 Text team, with 130 points, in ICC Rankings. Australia has slipped to the fifth position.

His 49th hundred is a double hundred !

Sachin was out eventually for 214, but then India had already taken a lead. Now they are 485/6 !

There was one man not at all tired on Monday. That was Sachin ! He batted throughout and never once did he exhibit any tiredness !

He is a living legend. May he score more. Now he has 49 Test hundreds and 46 ODI hundreds !

Tremendous powers of concentration and endurance mark this man. Aussies were bewildered as he went on to his double century ! He had crossed 14000 runs in Test cricket, the highest ever !

He should be knighted. Sir Sachin Tendulkar !

This is the Legend's

sixth century in 2010
second double
98 in the last Test
Total - 1217 this calender year.

Can you believe it ? He has an average of 93.61.

This is his best year, and that too in his 20th year. He seems to be improving all the time. He may go and cross Yousuf's 9 centuries in an year. Many has laughed at him saying that he is over the hill. It is time they did some introspecting !

The fiery spells of Waqar, Wasim and Imran at Karachi on Nov 15th, 1989 greeted him on his debut. A baptism of fire ! From then on he only improved and improved and erased all records in all the three formats of the game. M. Hayden was broadminded enough to comment.... " I have seen God !He bats at No 4 for India "

He did not lose his composure and remained humble and cool. A true professional!



After his debut, he was challenged by Lara, Inzamam ul Huq, Saeed Anwar and finally Ricky Ponting. When you compare him with the great Ponting, he has scored 14000 runs against P's 12026, average 56.02 against 54.66, 49 Test hundreds against Ponting's 39 ! ( in Tests ).

In ODIs, he has 46 hundreds against P's 29, 93 fifties against 79, 17958 runs against 13072, highest 200 no against 160, average 45.12 against 42.85 and strike rate 86.26 against P's 80.64 !

These two Great Ones will battle again and a battle royal is in the offing. Ponting is all geared up to break the jinx against Bajji, on Indian pitches. ( Now Australia are 132/5, with Ponting on 42 ).

Australia has crept upto 202/7, with Ojha taking 3 wickets, Bajji 2 and ZAK and Sreesath one each !

A tense final day is indicated as both will battle for supremacy. Above 200 will not be an easy task for India either !