Sweet Tidings

Sweet Tidings

Continuing from yesterday’s post on Raksha Bandhan, the 'Sweet' theme for this month at NaBloPoMo, of blogher.com here is an image of the band that is tied on the brother’s wrist. It’s called ‘Rakhi’ I managed to get just one image, but in the days preceding this festival, the shops display a myriad collection. Some are even handcrafted. Each one is a labor of love and fine art.

Ah! I forgot to mention the gift the sister receives in exchange for this honor. I pity the brother who has several sisters! How ‘sweet’ that is?

This day also coincides with a festival called ‘Nariyal Poornima’ Nariyal meaning coconut and ‘Poornima’ is full moon day. It is mainly celebrated in Western India along the coast line where coconuts are in abundance. At this time of the year, it’s almost the end of monsoon; the skies are clearer, sea is calmer and hence the fishermen whose livelihood depends on the sea are ready for business.

And yes, here comes the sweet dish that is synonymous with the festival - ‘Narali Bhat’ (coconut rice). The recipe will follow soon.

Sweet Relationships

In India, August heralds the beginning of different festivals, seasons and days. I'm hoping to connect the title 'Sweet' with the various customs, rituals, traditions and styles with which they are celebrated.

Relationships are an integral part of our lives. They are either formed at birth or entered into during the course of our lives. Maintaining some relationsips could be a 'sweet' experience while others may require more effort and patience.

One such relationship between brothers and sisters celebrated in India this year on 2nd August is called 'Rakhsha Bandhan'

'Raksha' means protection and 'Bandhan' is union or bond. A simple or decorated thread is tied on the brother's wrist symbolizing the sister's love for the brother and the brother's commitment to protect her. Both then share sweets. Isn't it sweet?