SWF: Bylakuppe Monastery

Bylakuppe in Karnataka has a number of monasteries, nunneries and temples in all the major Tibetan Buddhist traditions. It is a settlement that was established on land leased by the Karnataka state government to accommodate some of the Tibetan refugees who came to India after 1959.

My skywatch pictures this week are these made one pleasant evening last month while on a long walk from the Namdroling Monastery to reach this Sera Monastery.

Do go watch more skies at Sky Watch Friday.

Chocolates and Roses

chocolates and roses

irrational behaviour
pheromones
and attraction
dopamine effect
romance to follow
adrenalin
and serotonin
lost in thoughts
brain patterns
connecting
the person across
gazing eyes, hugging
chemicals abode
oxytocin and vasopressin
human bonding
hormones at work
excessive energy
losing sleep
feelings of euphoria
with the beloved
at times when separated
anxiety, and obsession
intangible feeling
life’s mystery to rationals:
“being in love”
lust and attraction
and attachment it can be
but till now i guess
none has well defined
biochemistry of love
no one’s been able to
figure out or quantify
what exactly is
the science of love
or is there someone out there who knows?

Happy Valentine’s Day to all those who celebrate.

How did you celebrate your Valentine’s Day? Did you get chocolates and roses?

SWF: Sigh of Contentment

During a stroll one evening as the sun was getting ready to set, I reach this place of justice...

A local woman in her traditional garb poses before it...
A bunch of school kids and a lone bird flying high up...
A little further away another gate is open...
Men in khaki stroll under blossom filled trees...

Pardon me while I sigh in contentment at memories of a pleasant and peaceful evening.

Go watch more skywatch posts at SkyWatch Friday.

Kandariya Mahadeva Temple

Khajuraho played a significant role in Indian history. It was called Vatsa in ancient time, Jijakbhukti in medieval times and Bundelkhand from the 14th century.

The Chandela kings who rose to power in the early 10th century made Khajuraho their capital and decorated their palace areas with temples. The place lost its importance in 1500 AD.

From supposedly 85 temples built in those days only about 25 stand today in varying stages of preservation. One of them is the Kandariya Mahadeva.

The Kandariya Mahadeva has a lofty base with elegantly ornamental mouldings, including friezes of elephants, horses, warriors, hunters, acrobats, musicians, dancers, devotees and many other interesting scenes. Its plan and design, symmetry and cultural embellishment mark it out as one of the most evolved and sublime creations of Indian architecture.

If you are interested in more details, read my posts on Khajuraho here and here.

Like to join me for a Swim?

Dubare Elephant Camp, Coorg
Photographed on 3 January 2010

No, Mr. Crocodile, thank you. Certainly not, unless I am pushed off the edge by someone into the River Cauvery. Even then, I shall quickly learn to swim and reach the banks of the River before you decide to play with me your favourite game, Snap!:D