Back from Sabarimala

I'm back from my annual pilgrimage to Sabarimala, the holy abode of Lord Ayyappa. There was heavy rush but we managed to pray well. This temple that does not pose restrictions on men from visiting the temple (Ayyappa is a bachelor God and hence, women between the age of 10 and 50 aren't allowed). People from all religions throng the temple and during the peak season the rush is second only to Mecca.

The visit to the temple involves a 41 days fast that requires the devotee to:

• Wear black clothes
• Remain unshaved
• Walk bare feet
• Avoid non-vegetarian food - supposed to eat food that is only cooked at home
  
• Avoid alcohol, intoxication and women
• Wake up as early as 4am, have bath and offer prayers before doing anything else

Basically, one must live life like a saint for those 41 days. Since I live alone, here in Hyderabad, I couldn't follow certain rules (like clothing, food from outside). I also had to shave my beard before my ISB interview. But I did follow the rest of the stipulations religiously. The pilgrimage helps develop tremendous self-control.

I started going when I was four years old. This was my 17th year to the temple.

I returned on Saturday and spent the weekend reading about the terror attacks on Mumbai. I was shocked to say the least. For long has India and Mumbai been savaged by these stains on humanity. I salute the ones who sacrificed their lives in trying to rescue the hostages. May the souls of the victims rest in peace. I pray that God gives their families the courage and strength to bear the losses.

Its my sister's birthday today. I plan to gift her "The Tales of Beedle the Bard", by J. K. Rowling. I am sure she'll like it.

Today also happens to be World Aids Day. So, people, please spread the awareness.

I had sold my Dell Inspiron laptop two weeks ago and will be getting my new Dell Studio 15" this week. So thats one other thing to look forward to...

Now I better rush to work. Tc.