SquareShooter

Not till I read Nandita Krishna's book on the paintings of Varadarajar Temple, Kanchipuram did I realize the importanace of the Jain temple at Thiruparuthikundram, a few kilometres away from Kanchipuram, popularly known as Jaina Kanchi. It is mentioned in the book, the restoration of painting at the Jain temple are not up to the mark while comparing with the Varadar temple ones, which are in a state of absolute decay. Only last summer I was thinking of amount people spend on adding unnecessary cement blocks and gold vimanas, but being indifferent to the dull and dark corridor filled with faded paintings around Varadar sannidhi. Therefore, a visit to the Jain temple was a must - to see for oneself how bad the restoration looks, and if one should take any steps to push a few devotees here to take up restoration of paintings.  Going around anywhere during the festival times becomes tough, especially in the heat. But, this is the only time available to e...

Third day morning is Garuda Sevai. by 3.50 am the procession started and there was no let up in the crowds this year too. Getting in and out of the temple was a task and the Kanchipuram kudai lived upto its tradition. But, with camphors being lit all around, it is impossible to click pictures outside where the changing of kudai or the umbrellas happen.

After the Simha Vahanam on the evening of Day 1 and Hamsa Vahanam on 2nd day morning the procession on 2nd day evening is Soorya Prabhai.

Senai Mudhalvar, chief commander of Vishnu's forces in SriVaikuntam takes the procession the evening before the Brahmotsavam or main festival starts. He goes on an inspection to check the roads are fine, and arrangements are good.

It is more than 20-yrs now, memories little vague. Not sure if it was in October or early November I joined Business Line. When the initiation process was all over and I walked into office Viji, late R.Vijayaraghavan my boss asked about who all I know at the Madras Stock Exchange. I gave half a dozen names of brokerages I knew and was about to leave for the exchange, setting foot inside the exchange for the first time. Viji in his typical, casual way told me you can go and meet my friend an ex-citibanker turned broker, they have their office above that Irani cafe next to the exchange. With that info in hand, I set out to Second Line Beach.  All those familiar with Chennai would know how chaotic the area is and MSE was no better. Dusty, dull MSE building's only sign was life and cheer was the trading floor. Entry to trading floor was prohibited for non-members and traders. The floor had not seen a journalist and only connection it had with media was a small cubicle that housed...