Trip to Belum Caves, Andhra Pradesh

During this year end, we were looking for nearby places to visit in a day or two.  We were planning to travel with a friend and family and this place was suggested by them.  It is surprising that we never heard of this place before.  Belum Caves is the second largest cave in Indian subcontinent and the longest caves in plains of Indian Subcontinent, known for its stalactite and stalagmite formations. It have long passages, spacious chambers, fresh water galleries and siphons. The caves reach its deepest point 120 feet from ground level. Belum Caves derives its name from "Bilum" Sanskrit word for caves. In Telugu language, it is called Belum Guhalu. It has a length of 3229 meters, making it the second largest natural caves in Indian Subcontinent.  The cave was restored by APTDC and was open to public in 2002 for 1.5 km stretch.  Around 3.5km of the cave have been explored so far. (Information from Wikipedia)

Fruit Mixing Ceremony at Total Mall

Public mixing fruits in Fruit Mixing Ceremony at Total Mall

It's Christmas time again. Every year, Total Mall in Bangalore conducts fruit mixing ceremony to create Christmas Cakes. This years event was held at Total Mall, Sarjapur Road where 2000kg of dry fruits were mixed with Brandy and Rum for making 5000kg of Plum Cake for Christmas sale.  Public were invited to participate and there were many people participating.

Ravan Dahan during Dussehra

Effigy of Ravan ready to be burned

As part of Dussehra celebrations in the apartment, Ravan Dahan was performed by the residents.  I am seeing this for the first time since this is more a North Indian tradition.  In Kerala, this day is celebrated as Vijayadashami and terminal of Navarathri festival.  The concept and the focus are totally different from the Dussehra celebrations.  Burning the effigy of Ravan is considered to be symbolic of the triumph of over evil (Ravan) by Ram. Here are some pictures of Ravan Dahan.

Ganesha Idol taken for immersion

Local community taking their Ganesha Idol for immersion in Hosa Road, Bangalore.

Independence Day

Independence Day, a photo by Ramki's reflections on Flickr.

Via Flickr:
Flags being sold on the eve of i-Day at Lalbagh Gardens