Monday, October 29, 2007

COCONUT MILK RICE




Coconut milk rice

Basmathi rice 3 cups
coconut milk 400ml
Soaked peas 1/2 cup
boiled water 1 cup
cloves 4
cinnamon 1 inch stick
garlic pods 8
green chillies 7 slit length wise
onion 2 chopped lengthwise
Fennelseed 1 tspn
mint leaves(optional)
oil 2 tbspn
salt

1. Soak basmathi rice for 15 minutes
2. Heat kadai with oil,add cloves, cinnamom, fennel seeds, garlic pods, green chillies ,fry for 2 minutes, add onion and fry well with soaked peas.
3. Keep at low flame, add coconut milk,water and stir well with salt.
4. shift the kadai contents to rice cooker .Drain basmathi rice and add.
5. Cook coconut milk rice in the rice cooker .

It goes on well with any type of pulses masala curry.

Pulse or any bean masala currry

overnight soaked Black eyed bean 1 cup
potatoes 1 big size
chopped onion 1
chopped tomato 1
ginger garlic paste 1tspn
dessicated coconut 2 tbspn
red chilli powder 1and 1/2 tspn
coriander powder 1 and 1/2 tspn
turmeric a pinch
coriander leaves 2 stems
cloves 2
cinnamon 1 small piece
oil
salt

for grinding
Heat kadai with oil, add cloves and cinnamon,fry gingergarlic paste, onion till brown, add tomato and fry, add dessicated coconut and all powder with salt and allow it to cool and grind.

1. Boil the soaked bean and cubed potatoes with little salt in another vessel.
2. once bean is cooked, mix the ground paste and boil for 6-8 minutes.
3. Season the curry at the end with mustard and curry leaves.

Any type of bean curry goes well on with jeera rice, plain rice, coconut milk rice, pulao, chappathi, poori ,roti etc. You can mix and match with anything. Thats the speciality of the curry.

Monday, October 22, 2007

MYTHOLOGICAL STORIES OF DURGA DEVI

When we read Durga chalisa and Durga Arthi. Its equivalent to reading the story.

The story below is from the net. I like to share this to everybody.

Mythological Stories of Godess Durga

Durga is a wrathful form of Parvati (consort of Shiva). She is represented with many arms with a weapon in each hand, shown sitting astride her mount, the lion, holding celestial weapons. Though popularly She is depicted with ten hands, but other of her popular forms present her with four, six, eight, sixteen, eighteen, and even, a thousand hands. Her face always remains calm and gentle. As Durga, the Goddess is ''beyond reach'' or ''inaccessible''. She is Devi Mahishasuramardini (Goddess Killer of the Buffalo Demon) who appears to her devotees as both saumya (gentle and mild) and ghora (frightful and terrible). According to Skanda Purana, she is none other than Parvati who takes on the role of warrior at Siva’s request to kill a giant demon. The demon cannot be killed by any of the gods because he is protected against the torments of any male by a special boon. Thus Parvati alone is able to kill him, and in doing so, the goddess is named Durga. The demon then takes the form of a buffalo, an apparition that again appears in the famous Devi-Mahatmya tale of the slaying of Mahishasura, the buffalo demon (mahisha means buffalo).
The story from 'Markandeya Chandi'

("Mahishasur-Vadh" or 'The Killing of Mahishasura'-episode from the book):

All the gods, headed by Lord Brahma, came over to Kailasha (a peak in the Himalayas), where Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva were busy in divine conversations. They narrated the whole story of how the demon-king Mahishasura dethroned Indra from the heaven. They added that, the demon is severely putting an end to the devotees of Vishnu and Shiva, by killing them cruelly. The Asura (demon) wants all in the universe to worship him as god, and not anyone else. First, There's no yajna (worship through divine fire in the altar) for long, and the gods of heaven are leading a life in disguise in the mountain caves, away from the clasp of Mahishasura. Hearing the story, the faces of Vishnu and Shiva turned red in wrath. Their faces glowed up. A sudden effulgent, fiery glow came out of their faces, and at a single point, the energy, the 'jyoti' (divine glow and aura), of all the gods coalesced and formed a gigantic mountain of fire. Soon, this 'jyotipunjah' (heap of 'jyoti') took the form of a young woman. She had the complexion of molten gold, and her 'jyoti' touched the heavens high above. Her face was from the light of Shiva. Her ten arms were from Lord Vishnu. Her legs were from Lord Brahma. Where as, her hair from Yama, her hips from the force of the goddess Earth, her breasts from the Moon-god, and so on. The dispossessed gods were drawn to Durga. They praised her and gave to her their divine gifts: Pinakadhrik (Shiva) gave her a trident - "Trishula". Lord Vishnu gave her a disc - "Chakra". Varuna, the god of water, gave her a conch - "Shankha", and the god of fire gave her a missile. From the wind, Vayu, she received arrows. The king of gods, Indra, gave her a thunder-bolt, and the gift of Indra's white-skinned elephant Airavata was a bell, or "ghanta". From Yama, the god of death, Durga received a rod - "Kaaldanda", and from the Ruler of Waters she was given a noose - "Paash". Durga received many other precious and magical treasures -- gifts of jewels, new clothing, and a garland of immortal lotuses for her head and breasts. Heaven's architect Vishwakarma gave her a bright axe and magic armor. God of the Himalayas, Himavat, gave her jewels and a magnificent lion to ride into battle as her mount ("vahan"). Now equipped with the fearsome weaponry of the gods and dressed in golden armor and jewels she set off, seated gracefully upon that lion. His thunderous roars shook the three worlds. Oceans boiled and surf poured overland. Continents were torn at their granite foundations as whole new chains of mountains rose, while older ranges crumbled, cracked, and gave way to dust in a thousand landslides. Seeing these cataclysms rippling in waves through all the three worlds, Mahishasura and his demon allies found their attention drawn from heaven to Earth. Though confident of their power and control in heaven, even the conquering demon host could not help being awestruck.

The demons had little time to admire the radiant visage of their new adversary, for soon she engaged them on the battlefield. First the army of Chikasura and then that of Chamara, Mahishasura's chief commanders were met. They were destroyed in a great battle. At first, confident of his overwhelming power, Mahishasura held in reserve his personal demon army. But seeing the setbacks being dealt his commander's troops on every side, it soon became obvious to Mahishasura that even his personal guard must be completely committed or he would surely be cast out of heaven. Or worse. Onto the battlefield swarmed that most elite and despised assemblage, with its gruesome hordes of infantry gleefully wielding their unearthly collection of dark iron axes and halberds, gorey bludgeoneers side by side with squadrons of demon-archers. Leading this evil array in its mad and desperate charge were thousands of charioteers and cavalry of horses and elephants. Surrounded by chants of praise, the blowing of horns the beating of drums and songs of worship Durga roamed the battlefield on her mighty lion. From her divine breath her army was constantly replenished with new warriors, each able, brave and resolute. With her bell she confused the demons, and many were dragged away bound and chained. With her divine sword she cut them to bits. So many demons and elephants and horses died that a river of blood flowed across the battlefield. The ground was left littered with the broken limbs and body parts of the defeated demon army. Durga was then attacked by the demon commanders, who were all killed immediately, and without mercy.

Mahisha, the king of the demons and usurper of the throne of heaven, was shocked and enraged by the disastrous events on the battlefield. He reverted to his own form, a buffalo, and charged about on the battlefield. He ran wildly at Durga's divine soldiers goring many, biting others and all the while thrashing with his long, whip-like tail. Durga's lion, angered by the presence of the demon-buffalo, attacked him. While he was thus engaged, Durga threw her noose around his neck. To escape this trap, Mahishasura discarded the buffalo and assumed the form of a lion. Durga beheaded the lion, and the demon escaped in the form of a man. Without hesitation, Durga dispatched the man with a flight of sharp arrows. Mahishasura and Lion Yet again the demon escaped, and this time took the formidable shape of a huge elephant, which battered Durga's lion with a tusk. With her sword Durga hacked at the tusk until it too was broken. Weakened, the demon reverted once more to his own form the wild buffalo. He retreated into the mountains where he hurled boulders at Durga with his horns. The Mother of the Universe drank the divine wine, gift of Kuvera. She said:

"Garja garja Kshanam moorha, madhu yavat pivamyaham |
Mayaa twayi hatehtraiva, garjishyantyashu devatah ||"

--- Take thou time to squall and scream as long as I don't finish up my divine wine, o, foolish Mahishasura! I will soon slain you (after I finish my drink), and the gods of heaven would burst in the joy of victory.

Immediately after this, the goddess jumped onto Mahishasura, pushing him to the ground with her left leg. She grasped his head in one hand, pierced him with her sharp spear held in another, and with yet another of her ten hands she wielded her bright sword, beheading him. At last he fell dead, and the scattered surviving remnants of his once invincible army fled in terror. The gods returned to heaven, and along with the sages of the earth, they sang praises to the Goddess Durga. Henceforth, and to this day, the Goddess Durga is worshipped by all the gods in heaven, and all human beings on earth. As he requested, Mahishasura is there too--frozen in his moment of final defeat, impaled by Durga's spear and prostrate beneath her left foot.

Glory of the Goddess

Once in the land of the gods, a huge and terrible battle raged for hundreds of years. The gods were finally defeated, kicked from their celestial abode by the terrible leader of the demons, Mahishasura. The gods, who had fought the battle and lost, appeared before the greatness of Brahma, Vishnu and Siva, explaining their defeat. The major gods became furious, and from their faces ''came forth a great fiery splendor, and also from the...bodies of all the gods, Indra and others...and it congealed into a single form''.

Quote Thomas Coburn’s translation of the Devi-Mahatmya at this point will give a feel for the power of the tale of Durga’s appearance: A stupendously fiery mass like a flaming mountain the gods saw there filling the firmament with flames. That matchless splendor, born from the bodies of all the gods, came together in a single place, pervading all the worlds with its lustre, and it became a woman...Devi bellowed aloud with laughter over and over again. The entire atmosphere was filled with her terrible noise, and from that deafening, ear-shattering noise a great echo arose. All the worlds quaked, and the oceans shook. The earth trembled, and the mountains tottered. The gods, utterly delighted, cried, "Victory!" to the one who rides on a lion.

The Stories of Sati and Parvati

What appeals to me the most about Hinduism is that one is allowed to doubt and question. In fact you will be surprised to learn that most of our scriptures are entirely conversations And discussions between Master and disciple. The Bhagavad Geeta would not have been a Scripture of such excellence, in terms of knowledge and wisdom if, Arjun would not have challenged and questioned and questioned Krishna’s word over and over again. It is only in the last Chapter that Arjun asserted: ‘Nashto Mohaa...’ Arjun stated that his delusion was destroyed through the Lord’s Grace, He claimed that his doubts were now gone and he professed that he would now act according to Krishna’s advice. Note, that not once did Krishna express His displeasure at Arjuna’s constant arguments. The Ramayan starts with Sati , the consort of Lord Shiva wondering and questioning. She said to Shiva that she could not agree that Shri Ram was the Lord God Himself in whom Shiva had such intrinsic faith. How could Shri Ram be so disconsolate, when he lost Seeta and could not find her? How could he tearfully ask every tree and shrub where Seeta was? Sati scoffed and wondered aloud. Though Shiva explained that that was the (Leela) sport of the Lord, Sati wanted to test it out for herself. So Sati impersonated Seeta and planted herself near Shri Ram. The latter addressed her as ‘Ma’ Sati had not managed to deceive the Lord Shri Ram. When Shiva asked Sati about her whereabouts, she lied to him.

It is said that Shiva, when he learnt that she had impersonated Devi Seeta, could not accept her as a sexual mate. Shiva had nothing against the fact that she doubted or that she questioned. He was against her impersonation. The above is what we are mostly guilty of. We pretend to be that which we are not. That leads to lies, to those who we love And who have so much trust in us. We not only deceive others but ourselves. It is the above trespass that makes us incarnate again for another try. That is the point that I am trying to make. The above is one of the reasons why Sati had to return as Parvati in her next incarnation. As Parvati, she again showed a desire to learn about the feats and greatness Of Shri Ram. Shiva, this time round was happy to comply with Parvati’s Divine Desire. That is how the Great Narration of the Ramayan began.

Once again there was a Divine Plan in action. One more time for the benefit of Humanity. This story appears in the Shiva Puraanam:-

Sati’s father, King Daksha performed severe penance for 3000 years. The pleased goddess manifested before him and promised to take birth as his daughter Herself. When Sati or Gauri as she was named, grew up, she performed intense penance to attain Shiva as her husband. Daksha was not very happy at Sati’s choice of husband. So Daksha did not invite Shiva and Gauri (Sati) to a great Yagna (Spiritual sacrifice) that he was about to perform. Sati, noting that all the celestial vehicles were headed towards her father’s place, felt peeved at the fact that she had received no invitation. She insisted on attending the function anyway, despite the disapproval of Shiva. When Sati entered her parental palace, her father Daksha ignored her. To add insult to injury, Daksha proclaimed that his other daughters and their husbands were finer and more distinguished than Sati and Shiva and as such were more worthy of honour than Sati and Shiva. The Goddess Sati approached the Sadas (The area of the site of sacrifice where the main priests sit.) She thundered: "Let all those who sit here give ear to the Mistress of the Universe. My husband, the Lord of Lords has been insulted for no good reason. No fault exists in Him. It is claimed in the Scriptures that those who steal knowledge, those who betray a Teacher and those who defile the Lord are great sinners and ought to be punished".

After uttering these words, the offended Goddess threw herself in the glowing sacred fire. Daksha’s Yagna had been desecrated. A celebration turned into a funeral. The invitees disappeared afraid that they could be avenged. Shiva was enraged on learning that his wife had sacrificed herself. He created a being called Veerbhadra by tearing a lock of his hair. Mighty Veerbhadra tore off King Daksha’s head and tossed it into the same sacrificial fire. However because it was proclaimed that the Yagna should not be left incomplete, the head of a sacrificial goat was placed on Daksha. Lord Shiva was very sad at the death of Sati. He began to wander in the three nether worlds carrying the dead body of Sati in his arms. So violent was his stride that the universe began to tremble and there was suffering everywhere. In order to break this attachment of Shiva and to save the universe, Vishnu shot some arrows from his bow and cut the corpse of Sati into fifty one pieces. The pieces fell in 51 different parts of the country. These are known as Shakti Pithas.

And so the Great Goddess is born, ready to fight the enemies of the gods. In her battle with the demons, she easily wins, and must finally confront the general, Mahisha himself. For this battle she is called Chandika, ''The Violent and Impetuous One'', in part because Mahisha so infuriates her by changing form every time she attempts to kill him. The goddess charges and he changes into a lion. She cuts off his head, and he emerges from that body as a man, armed for battle. She kills him, and an elephant appears in his place. She chops off the trunk, and the buffalo is once again before her. Needing something to channel her focus, Chandika drinks her fill of wine and becomes intoxicated. She laughs at Mahisha as he roars and throws mountains at her during her break. She yells at him that soon it will be the gods who are roaring over his death and defeat. Downing her last gulp, the goddess leaps across the battlefield at Mahisha, stands upon his neck to stop him from changing into any other form, pierces him with her spear and chops off his head. She is indeed victorious with this manoeuver, and the gods sing her praise. She so loves their devotion that she tells them she will come again to their aid if they merely call. With this boon, she disappears.

The most detailed and glorious tale of Durga’s battlefield prowess comes when the gods, who remember her earlier promise, again call upon her. This time, She is asked to defeat the demons Sumbha and Nisumbha (two brothers). These demons had somehow managed to amass so much power that they deprived the gods of sacrificial offerings for a long time. This caused the gods tremendous stress because the offerings are what sustains their purpose-if they are not honored, they are depotentiated. This had been going on for so long that none of the gods could live in heaven any longer. The gods therefore sung out to the goddess, praising her for all things, hoping that she would help save them a fate of anonymity. When called, She came in her most beautiful aspect as Ambika. When Sumbha’s generals, Chanda and Munda, saw her, however, they immediately reported back to Sumbha of her splendor. They told him that she would be most worthy of his favors. Sumbha, being vain and wanting all things of beauty for his own, decided to have his minions ask for her hand in marriage on his behalf.

The generals then go to the goddess, but she tells them of a vow taken in her youth to only marry the one who can defeat her in battle. Upon hearing this from his emissaries, Sumbha is angry to think that a ''mere woman'' would thus suggest challenging him. He calls another of his generals, Dhumralochana (Smoky-Eyes), and tells him to take sixty thousand of his forces, grab the woman by the hair and return her to him. Dhumralochana goes forth to Chandika and at first tries to persuade her to come peacefully to Sumbha. She is not so inclined, and when Dhumralochana attempts to attack her, Chandika turns him and his battalions to ashes. The goddess is not easily had. Sumbha quickly hears about his general’s defeat. He is so filled with hatred and desire to overcome and possess the goddess that he next summons Chanda and Munda, his most trusted officers. These two, acting on their commander’s request head off with the rest of the demon entourage and find Chandika in the Himalayas. They immediately begin firing arrows at her, and with this, the goddess lets her rage be known. She turns black in anger and fury, and from her brow, Kali emerges. This emanation of the goddess is her most fierce and gruesome.

She is depicted as emaciated, with red eyes, protruding tongue set for lapping up blood, black countenance, and wild, long, disheveled hair. She carries multiple weapons, a skull-topped staff, and emits alternatively hideous shrieks and deafening roars. Her only clothing, if any, is a tiger-skin wrapped about her waist, and she wears as ornaments a garland of freshly severed human heads and dead infant earrings. Kali easily slays the generals and offers their heads to Chandika, who then names her Chamunda, or slayer of Chanda and Munda. Then, both Chandika and Kali set out to kill Sumbha and his remaining armies.

The gods at this point send their power, or shakti, to the aid of the goddesses. Together, these forces, along with the sakti of Chandika, called Aparajita, decimate all foes while those demons still able to do so flee the battleground in terror. One demon though, named Raktabija (Blood Seed, or Drops of Blood), comes forward again to fight. He has the special gift of being able to multiply wherever one of his drops of blood falls upon the earth. But Chandika and Chamunda team up to defeat him. Chandika lances the demon, weakening him, while Chamunda laps up his blood before it can reach the ground, thus ensuring his death. Now, only Sumbha and Nisumbha are left to challenge the goddesses. To make a long story short, however, devi withdraws Her emanations back into herself, kills Nisumbha first and renders Sumbha powerless, finally destroying him with one fatal pierce of her spear. The Goddess is yet again victorious.
Goddess Durga and a few of her various forms:

Goddess Durga is possibly one of the most powerful of all Indian Goddesses. She is worshipped in numerous forms and personas. The Goddess is seen by many of her devotees to be the supreme deity, as powerful as the supreme male deity. Although many Goddesses have consorts, Goddess Durga is independent. One of the many popular images of Goddess Durga is that of her slaying a demon. This is the buffalo demon Mahishasura who, upon being slayed by the Goddess, begged her forgiveness, and asked that he too be worshiped along with her. As a result, three of her forms often depict her slaying the demon, or with the demon at her feet.

Kali

According to Legend, Durga is a fierce Goddess and she created Goddess Kali to help her in her battles. As Kali, she is the destroyer of all evil. She is black, and wears a garland of skulls around her neck. Kali was created to destroy the demon Raktavera. If a drop of his blood would spill on the floor, another demon would sprout forth from this drop. Unknowingly, Goddess Kali attacked Raktavera, and soon she was surrounded by numerous demons or asuras. Kali then went on to swallow the asuras. She then pierced Raktavera with a spear, and drank his blood as it gushed out, until not a drop of blood was left. The blood-smeared image of Kali which is often seen in pictures and in temples depicts this scene.

Kaushiki and Chamunda

When two demon brothers, Shumbha and Nishumbha, forcibly drove the gods out of heaven, they prayed to the mother Goddess to help them. Parvati heard their prayers when bathing, and shed her skin to create the beautiful Kaushiki. Kaushiki was spotted by Chanda and Munda, two assistants of Shumbha and Nishumbha. Chanda and Munda were astounded by her beauty, and praised her to Shumbha and Nishumbha, who sent a message via Chanda and Munda that she marry them. A battle then assumed, and Kaushiki wiggled her eyebrows. Out of her third eye sprung an elderly black Goddess, who slayed Chanda and Munda and brought them to Kaushiki. Kaushiki was pleased at her work, and bestowed on her the name of Chamunda. Chamunda is a persona of Goddess Kali. While Goddess Kali is young and may be portrayed as beautiful, Chamunda is portrayed as old and frightening. Kaushiki then killed Nishumbha and when she defeated Shumbha, the other personas merged into Kaushiki, and she killed Shumbha.

Mahamaya

Durga is also equated with the Goddess Mahamaya, the creator of illusion and attachment. According to legend, Goddess Mahamaya once granted a boon to two demons of choice of death. These two demons then started disrupting the universe. Lord Vishnu tried to slay them, but could not as they were protected by the boon. He then approached Mahamaya for help. Using the power of illusion, she tricked the demons into helping Lord Vishnu to kill them. However, they laid forth the condition that he did so only where there be no earth, water, air, ether, mind, intelligence or false ego. Taking this opportunity, Lord Vishnu squashed the two demons on his thigh, since Lord Vishnu's was a transcendental body.

Markandeya Chandi or Durga-Saptashati

The 'Durga-Saptashati', or 'Markandeya Chandi', or 'Devi Maahaatmya' is a 700-verse poem ("Saptashati"), and a part of the Markandeya Puraana. It is auspicious to read the Devi Mahatmya Katha on or before Dassera, but the same can also be read any time.

The best technique for the achievement of 'Moksha' is worship. Moksha consists of the march of the human soul to its freedom. Freedom from what? It is freedom from desires that goad a man from birth to death and the dissatisfaction that results despite their fulfillment. The object of any form of worship is the attainment of Divine Grace. The Devi Mahatmya is a brilliant poem in Sanskrit, that describes the three stages of transformation of the obstacles that a human soul encounters in the journey towards freedom. What are these obstacles?
• Desire and anger.
• Restlessness of the mind.
• Ignorance.
The narration starts with the story of king Suratha. He is dejected because he has been defeated by his enemies. He lands up in the hermitage of Sage Medha. There he meets a merchant called Samadhi. Samadhi had not only lost his wealth but his own family, as the latter has turned him out. Both Samadhi and king Suratha are confounded at the fact that their mind keeps reverting to the very family and circumstances that have been the cause of so much sorrow in their lives. They both request Rishi Medha to throw light on this mysterious aspect of the mind. The Sage replies that this sorrow that they were experiencing was due to the veiling power of the Divine Mother which is called 'Maya'. This delusion emanates from the Lord Himself. It is through this power that the Lord creates, preserves and dissolves back everything into its Pure State. It is depicted in the Devi Mahatmya that Ma Durga, Ma Kali, MahaLaxmi and MahaSaraswati are not different. They are three separate aspects of the same 'Shakti' energy.

MADHU AND KAITABHA

Once Lord Vishnu withdrew His power of Maya and went into a Yoga Nidra (sleep). The whole Universe at that time was dissolved in the causal waters. Brahma, the creative power of the Lord had also gone to sleep. The earth had been broken up and was floating around in the causal waters, These pieces of dirt lodged themselves in the ears of the Lord. He swept these out with His fingers. That dirt, because of the Lord's touch sprang into life and became enormous demons 'Asuras'. They were called Madhu and Kaitabh. They attacked Brahma. The latter invoked the Divine Mother to wake Vishnu. The Lord took the Asuras and placed them on His thighs and cut their heads off. The Lord then created the earth with the fat (Medas) of the demons. That is the reason for the earth being called 'Medini' It is believed that the earth is situated in the thighs in the Cosmic Body of the Lord. It is interesting to note that the earth was created again from the fat of the same demons, Madhu and Kaitabh.
MAHISHAASURA

Mahishaasura was a buffalo-headed demon . He was granted a boon whereby he would be protected from anyone. Intoxicated by the above gift, he set out to conquer the world. Mahishaasura defeated Indra, the king of the gods. Indra implored Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh to help him. The Divine Trio amalgamated their shakti (power) and created Durga. Ma Durga fought Mahishaasura for 9 days and beheaded him on the 10th day. The 9 days are those of Navratri and the 10th victorious day is called Vijaydashami. A point to note is that as Mahishaasura was attacked, the latter would change its forms to elephant, bull, buffalo, until ultimately it is killed. The buffalo also represents the base animal instinct in a human being. Goddess Durga is powerful enough to control Evil that comes in disguise. She ends this tyranny and protects Her devotees. These transformations of Maahishaasura also denote the fickle mind and different desires that manifest in some manner or another. The Trident that the Goddess uses to destroy the Impure is a 3 pronged weapon which protects the mental, intellectual and physical aspects of life. Her sword cuts the evil of ignorance. Her bell drives away unholy thoughts and the twang of Her bow instills alertness in Her devotees.

DHOOMRALOCHANA AND CHANDA & MUNDA Ma then proceeded to annihilate Dhoomra- Lochana. The latter was a powerful general of the terrible Asura, Sumbha. The Goddess uttered the sound 'Hum' and the demon turned to ashes by the powerful vibration of the sound. The form of Ma Kali who emerged from the forehead of the angry face of Ambika (form of Durga) killed the Asuras Chanda and Munda. Chanda means a person who is short-tempered and Munda means a shaven-headed man. Together they imply the anger of a champion fighter. Because of this victory over Chanda and Munda , Kali Mata is known as Chamunda.

RAKTABEEJA

Hearing the news of the death of Chanda and Munda, the infuriated King Sumbha mobilised the Asuric forces and surrounded the Mother from all sides. Then, from the Great Devas (Spiritual Beings) emerged Powers which entered the Form of the Mother.
• From Lord Vishnu emerged the power of Vaishnavi, and subforms from His 'avatars' - Vaaraahi and Naarasimhi.
• From Brahma, emerged the power called Brahmaani.
• From Lord Shiva, emerged Maheshwari and Veer Bhadra.
• From Lord Shiva's son Kartikeya (or Kumar), emerged the power of Kaumari.
• From Indra emerged the power of Aindri.

Raktabeeja was the son of Krodhaavati, the sister of Shumbha and Nishumbha. Krodha means anger. Raktabeeja was an Asura who enjoyed a unique blessing. If a drop of blood were to drop from his body and touch the earth, then a demon of his might and form would spring from it. So if he were to get wounded during battle, the drops of blood would give rise to a thousand demons like himself. It is for the above reason that Kali spread her tongue so that she could suck Raktabeeja's blood before it touched the earth. Raktabeeja fell on the ground dead as his body was completely drained of blood.

SHUMBHA AND NISHUMBHA

Finally Sumbha and Nisumbha were slain by Devi Mahasaraswati. Mahasaraswati stands for knowledge and Wisdom. Knowledge and Wisdom are forever victorious over Ignorance and delusion. The first 3 days of 'Navratra' are dedicated to 'Ma Kali' to annihilate the enemies within The next 3 days are dedicated to 'Ma Laxmi' and the last 3 days are dedicated to Ma Saraswati. After 9 days of struggle, Ma Durga beheaded Mahishaasura on the 10th day. This victorious day is called Vijaydashmi. On this day Shri Ram killed the 10 headed Ravana. This day is known as Dassera. On the 10th day a Bonfire is lit to burn the Self arrogating Ego. So on this Vijaydashmi day or call it Dassera if you wish let us also sound the bugle of Victory over our struggle with our base nature tendencies. But how do we do that? Lord Krishna advises the Spiritual seeker in the Geeta, "Verily this divine Maya of mine made up of the three gunas is difficult to cross over. Those who take refuge in Me, they alone cross over it" ~ Bhagwat Geeta - VII-14.

MYSORE DUSSERA









MYSORE DUSSERA
YESHTONDHU SUNDARA

There is a kannada song on mysore dussera enhancing about the dussera festival.
In south of India, Mysore is famous for Dussera. Mysore palace is very beautiful and gorgeous. Palace is enlightened with full of lights. There is a custom followed by Wodeyar family for several generations offering prayers to goddess Durga. Its special during dussera. Durga is worshipped grandly at Chamundi hills for 9 days .

Navaratri is a festival conducted for 9 days. These nine days Goddesses Durga is worshipped in different forms. First three days Goddess durga is worshipped to ward off our negatives, miseries of life and to give strength and courage, next three days Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped for wealth prosperity and last three days Goddess Saraswathi is worshipped for knowledge.

Various cultural programs are performed during these nine days of festival. The programs involved are classical music, classical dance, drama, folk song and dance along with sports activities like wrestling, marathon.

Tenth day is called Vijayadashami day On this day the royal family of Mysore take Idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari placed on golden Howda for procession on Elephant . This procession is called aane savari.

Ramayan story is related to dussera that Lord Rama performed navaratri durga pooja and killed Ravana and the victory is celebrated on 10th day which is vijayadashami . The other story is about Mahabharatha where Pandavas did nine days durga pooja and on 10th day they started their journey for the battle fighting against injustice caused to them by Kauravas. These are mythological stories on Navaratri.

Navaratri is also a public festival like Ganesh Chathurthi. Navaratri is celebrated through out India . Especially in West Bengal its called Durga Pooja, North India its Ram lila, South its Navaratri dussera. Every region the names are different but worshipping Goddesses Durga is same and she is also form of Lakshmi and Saraswathi as well.

In South India, Goddess is called in 9 names Durga, Badrakali, Amba or Jagadamba, Annapurna, Sarvamangala, Bhairavi, Chandika or Chandi, Lalitha, Bhavani and Mookambika.

In North India, West Bengal different names follows:
Goddess Durga is called by various names on each day of the Navaratri festival
Day 1 Shaila Putri
Day 2 Brahmacharini
Day 3 Chandraghanta
Day 4 Kooshmanda
Day 5 Scandamaata
Day 6 Kaatyayini
Day 7 Kaalaraatri
Day 8 Mahagowri
Day 9 Siddhidaatri

The various kinds of Poojas conducted during Navaratri are:
- Sharada Pooja
- Pustaka Pooja
- Lalitapanchami Vrata
- Durga Pooja
- Durgadeeta Namaskara
- Chandika Parayana
- Navadurga Poojane
- Durga Havana
- Chandika Havana
- Laxminarayana Hradaya Parayana
- Kumkumarchane
- Ayudha Pooja
- Yantra Vaahana Pooja

Navaratri Celebrations and Significance :

Navaratri is festival of Dolls (Gombe habba or Bomma Golu). Dolls are arranged in a row and kept in 3, 5, 7, 9, or 11 steps. Dolls are arranged on mahalaya amavasya day evening. First step is always with little place for kalasha, ganesha, Goddess
Durga, Goddess Lakshmi and Goddess Saraswathi. Second step and following steps are arranged with other mythological Gods theme like Rama and family, Dashaavtar, Aandal, Ashtalakshmi, various Krishna forms, Shettrappa and shettramma with shop, Vadya group, Marriage troop and many more. Marapachi bombe is kept which is a pair of bride and groom kept for fertility. Various forms of dolls and toys are arranged . It could be Handmade dolls, soft toys, porcelain toys, wooden dolls, plastic dolls, cloth toys etc. Golu is not complete without park or zoo or lake or temple etc kept beside the Golu steps.

Each house the dolls are arranged in their own style with different theme story. Kids are excited to do the floor job by creating park, zoo, lake, temple area etc.

Starting from the first day to ninth day of navaratri, pooja is performed morning and evening . Prayers are archane of lord Ganesha, durga, lakshmi, saraswathi and lalitha ashtothara. Special prayer is to read Durga chalisa morning and evening for nine days. Naivedyam is done in morning with sweet dish and at evening usli or sundal. Mangalarthi is done at last. Singing God songs at evening. Ladies and children are invited home and given kumkuma tambula with prasada all nine days.
At late evening kempu neer (red water) arthi is done for dolls.

Saraswathi pooja is done on moola nakshatra day by keeping books and pen for knowledge and wisdom.

Durgashtami day which is eighth day of Navaratri is celebrated very auspiciously by reading devi purana and performing pooja for Goddess Durga. On this day eight kanya girls and 1 boy are invited. Praying them in form of Goddess and offering them with Sweet pongal, Sajjige, Boiled black chick peas usli, fruits etc.
Durga is worshipped in the form of Godess Lakshmi on this day.

Navami day is the ninth day of Navaratri which is Ayudha pooja where all the tools are kept for pooja. Apart from this all the electrical appliances and car also is considered as tools. Pooja is done for all these items. This day is for ma durga for tools or weapons.

Vijayadashami is tenth day of Navaratri. This day pooja is performed. Later kalasha is moved little north side, One doll is made slept which means navaratri is celebrated successfully this year and welcoming the dolls next year. Books are read by children and adults as Vidya arambham on vijayadashami day. Anything new can be started on this day as it is very auspicious. Finally the dolls are removed and packed neatly the next day.

Navaratri is celebration of togetherness . Its ladies and children festival. Very few people celebrate and follow. These days most of them are employed and have no time for all these. They all have faith in God but no time to follow in metro cities or abroad. Modern trend of celebration is giving kukum and tambula for any festival.

I celebrate every year. Its very beautiful and peaceful after the prayers. Its fun for kids.

LET MAA DURGA BLESS US ALL

Sunday, October 21, 2007

PLANTAIN SLICES



Raw Plantain 2 no.s sliced
Ginger 1 inch crushed
Garlic pods 5 crushed
Mustard 1 tsp
Turmeric powder 1/4 tspn
Red chilli powder 2 tspn
coriander powder 2 tspn
oil 3 tbspn
Handful curry leaves
salt

1.Heat kadai with oil , add mustard, crushed ginger and garlic, curry leaves.
2.Add sliced raw plantains and fry in low flame for 5 minutes.
3.Add turmeric, chilli, coriander powder and salt and fry for 2 minutes.
4.Add 1/2 glass boiled water to the sliced plantain and cook for 5 - 8 minutes in medium flame.

MIXED VEGETABLE SIDE DISH



Chopped capsicum 1 cup
chopped brinjal 1 cup
chopped carrot 1 cup
chopped mushroom 1 cup
chopped potato 1 cup
Boiled black eyed beam 1 cup
roasted peanuts handful
Red chilli powder 1 tbspn
Coriander powder 1 tbspn
Turmeric powder 1/4 tspn
Garam masala powder 1 tspn
Mustard 1 tspn
Oil 2 tbspn
Lime juice 1 tbspn
salt

1.Heat wok with oil, add mustard, add one by one vegetable ,stir well for 5 minutes.
2.Add chilli, coriander, turmeric , garam masala powder and salt. fry for 5 minutes.
3.Add 1 cup of boiling water .cook all vegetables in low flame.
4. At the end add cooked black eyed bean ,stir well and turn off.
5. Add lime juice, mix well and garnish with peanuts.

Wednesday, October 17, 2007

NATURAL BENEFITS OF FRUITS

NATURAL BENEFITS OF AN APPLE

Health Benefits of Apple :

1.Apple is a rich source of flavonoid and polyphenols both are powerful antioxidant.
Study shown that by eating 100g of apple can give an antioxidant effect that equal to taking about 1,500mg of vitamin C.
2.Apple contain a large amount of minerals and vitamins that can strengthen the blood.
3.Apple contain malic acid and tartaric acid, that can help prevent disturbances of the liver and digestion.
4.Apple cider vinegar when used as beverage can help to prevent the formation of kidney stone.
5.The skin of Apple contain pectin that can help remove toxic substances from the system by supplying galacturonic acid. Pectin helps prevent protein matter in the intestine from spoiling.
6.Eating an apple daily can lower cholesterol and reduce skin diseases.

Apples have been recommended for :

Obesity
Headache
Arthritis
Bronchial asthma
Inflammation of the bladder
Gonorrhea
Anemia
Tuberculosis
Neuritis
Insomnia
Cataract
Gallbladder stones
Worms
Halithosis
Pyorrhea

Nutritive Values : Per 100 grams

Vitamin A : 900 I.U.
Vitamin B : Thiamine .07 mg.;
Vitamin C : 5 mg.
Vitamin G : Amount uncertain
Calcium : 6 mg.
Iron : 3 mg.
Phosphorus : 10 mg.
Potassium : 130 mg.
Carbohydrates : 14.9 gm.
Calories : 58

NATURAL BENEFITS OF BANANA

1.Banana is an energy booster.
2.Banana contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin. Serotonin is a hormone that is known to make you feel happy and improve your mood.
3.Banana is a rich source of iron, thus it is helpful in cases of anemia.
4.Banana is good a good source of potassium. If you are taking diuretics take 2 bananas a day to prevent the depletion of potassium in the body.
5.The skin of the banana is said to help remove warts(cover the warts with the inner skin of banana).
6.Banana is good for people who have high blood pressure because it is low in salt.
7.Banana is also helpful in the following cases :
Stomach ulcer (banana has a natural antacid)
Colitis
Digestive disorder
Diarrhea
Constipation (banana is high in fiber)
Hemorrhoids

Nutritive Values : Per 100 gm.

Vitamin A : 430 I.U.
Vitamin B : Thiamine .04 mg.;
Vitamin C : 10 mg.
Calcium : 8 mg.
Iron : 6 mg.
Phosphorus : 28 mg.
Potassium : 260 mg.
Carbohydrates : 23 gm
Protein : 1.2 mg.
Calories : 88

NATURAL BENEFITS OF MANGO

1.Mangoes contain phenols, this phenolic compound have powerful antioxidant and anticancer abilities.
2.Mango is high in iron, pregnant women and people with anemia are advised to eat this fruit regularly.
3.Mango is effective in relieving clogged pores of the skin.
4.It is also valuable to combat acidity and poor digestion.
5.Mango is high in antioxidant and low in carbohydrates.
6.Mango is a rich source of vitamin A(beta-carotene), E and Selenium which help to protect against heart disease and other ailments.

Mango is beneficial ;

Kidney problems including nephritis.
Fever
Respiratory problems
Constipation

Nutritive Values : Per 100 gm.

Vitamin A : 6,350 I.U.
Vitamin B : Thiamine .06 mg.;
Vitamin C : 41 mg.
Calcium : 9 mg.
Phosphorus : 13 mg.
Protein : .7 gm.
Calories : 66

NATURAL BENEFITS OF GUAVA

Guava is a tropical fruit that is like the shape of pear, with green rind and pinkish or white flesh and small seeds. Some people say Guava is better than orange because guava contain more Vitamin C than orange and guava is a lot cheaper than orange.

Guava Contains :

Vitamin C the skin of guava contains more than 5 times Vit C than that of an orange.
Vitamin A and B
Calcium
Nicotinic Acid
Phosphorus
Potassium
Iron
Folic acid
Fiber

Nutritive Values of Guava : Per 100 gm.

Vitamin A : 250 I.U.
Vitamin B : Thiamine .07 mg.;
Niacin : 1.2 mg.
Vitamin C : 302 mg.
Calcium : 30 mg.
Phosphorus : 29 mg.
Carbohydrates : 17.1 gm.
Protein : 1.0 gm.
Calories : 70

Guava is Beneficial in the following cases :

Prolonged menstruation
High blood pressure
Poor circulation (strengthen the heart)
Congestion of the lungs
Acidosis
Asthma
Catarrh
Obesity
Scurvy

NATURAL BENEFITS OF GRAPES

Grapes is a small round or oval fruit, some grapes are seedless. Grapes is a rich source of flavonoids, this gives the gives the vibrant purplish color to grapes , grape juice and red wine, the stronger the color, the higher the flavonoid content.

Nutritive Values of Grapes : Per 100 gm.

Vitamin A : 80 I.U.
Vitamin B : Thiamine .06 mg.;
Vitamin c : 4 mg.
Calcium : 17 gm.
Phosphorus : 21 mg.
Fat : 1.4 gm.
Carbohydrates : 14.9 gm.
Protein : 1.4 gm.
Calories : 70

Health Benefits of Grapes:

1.Good blood and body builder, it is also a quick source of energy.
2.Grape juice is easily assimilated and called the "nectar of the gods". It is indicated in cases of constipation, gout, rheumatism, skin and liver disorders.
3.This alkaline fruit (also called "the queen of fruits") helps greatly to decrease the acidity of the uric acid and lends itself further in aiding the elimination of the acid from the system, thus benefiting the kidneys greatly.
4.Studies shown that grape juice, red wines and raisin tea showed strong antiviral activity against poliovirus, herpes simplex virus.
5.Helps reduce platelet clumping and harmful blood clots.

NATURAL BENEFITS OF STRAWBERRY

Strawberry is one of the most delicious and nutritious fruit. It has the ability to remove harmful toxin in the blood. It is also recommended for sluggish liver, gout, rheumatism, constipation, high blood pressure, catarrh and even skin cancer.

Strawberry is a rich source of folic acid, folic acid helps to prevent / reduce birth defects involving brain.

Nutritive Value : Per 100 gm.

Vitamin A : 60 I.U.
Vitamin B : Thiamine .03 mg.;
Vitamin C : 60 mg.
Calcium : 28 mg.
Phosphorus : 27 mg.
Potassium : 220 mg.
Carbohydrates : 8.3 gm
Calories : 37

Health Benefits of Strawberry :

1.This is highly rated as skin cleansing food, even though the skin eruptions may appear at first in some cases.
2.It is also known to clean or rid the blood of harmful toxins.
3.It has been reported to help cases of syphilis.
4.The strawberry, when cut in half and rubbed on the teeth and gums, removes tartar from the teeth and strengthens and heals the gums. The juice should be allowed to remain on the teeth as long as possible in order to dissolve the tartar. The mouth may then be rinsed with warm water.

NATURAL BENEFITS OF PINE APPLE

Pineapple is a tropical fruit, it contains a proteolytic enzyme bromelain, which helps in the digestion of protein. Pineapple can prevent blood clot formation because of its bromelain content.

Nutritive Value : Per 100 gm.

Vitamin A : 130 I.U.
Vitamin C : 24 mg.
Calcium : 16 mg.
Phosphorus : 11 mg.
Potassium : 150 mg.
Carbohydrates : 13.7 gm.
Calories : 52

Pineapple is Beneficial also in the following condition :

1.It is regulates the gland and found to be helpful in cases of goiter(enlargement of the thyroid gland).
2.Dyspepsia (chronic digestive disturbance).
3.Bronchitis (inflammation of the bronchial tubes.)
4.Catarrh (secretions from mucous membranes).
5.High Blood pressure.
6.Arthritis (diseases of the joints)
7.Fresh pineapple juice is also used in removing intestinal worms.
8.Fresh pineapple juice has been used to combat diptheria and other infections of the throat or other parts of the body.
9.Prevents nausea (includes morning sickness and motion sickness), Take 230 cc. of pineapple juice or papaya juice.
10.Constipation

NATURAL BENEFITS OF ORANGE

Orange is one of the most favorite fruit in the world. Orange is loaded with vitamins, and the most abundant vitamin in orange is Vitamin C. This powerful vitamin protect our body against harmful elements.

Orange contains :

1.Betacarotene, another powerful antioxidant that protects our cells from being damage.
2.Calcium that helps protect and maintain the health of our bone and teeth.
3.Folic Acid for proper brain development.
4.Magnesium helps maintain blood pressure.
5.Potassium helps maintain electrolyte balance in the cells, and is important in maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system.
6.Thiamin helps to convert food into energy.
7.Vitamin B6 helps support the production of hemoglobin that carries oxygen to all parts of the body.

Nutritive Values : Per 100 gm.

Vitamin A : 190 I.U.
Vitamin B : Thiamine .08 mg.;
Vitamin C : 49 mg.
Calcium : 33 mg.
Phosphorus : 23 mg.
Potassium : 300 mg.

Orange is helpful:

Asthma
Bronchitis
Tuberculosis
Pneumonia
Rheumatism
Prevent kidney stone
Helps lower cholesterol
Helps prevent diabetes
Arthritis
High blood pressure
Persons addicted to alcohol have found that the desire for liquor is greatly reduced by drinking of orange juice.
Consumption of large quantities of oranges will decrease the outpouring of mucus secretions from the nose.

NATURAL BENEFITS OF PEACH

Health Benefits of Peach :

1.Anemia
2.Constipation
3.High blood pressure
4.Gastritis (inflammation of the stomach)
5.Nephritis (inflammation of the kidneys)
6.Acidosis (deficiency of alkalinity in the body)
7.Bronchitis (inflammation of the bronchial tubes)
8.Asthma
9.Poor digestion
10.Bladder and kidney stones.
11.Helps improve the health of the skin and adds color to the complexion.
12.Helpful in the removal of worms from the intestinal tract.
13.May help prevent cancer in organs and glands with epithelial tissue due to its high Vitamin A content.

Nutritive Values : Per 100 gm.

Vitamin A : 880 I.U.
Vitamin B : Thiamine .02 mg.;
Riboflavin : .05 mg.;
Niacin : .9 mg.
Vitamin C : 8 mg.
Calcium : 8 mg.
Iron : .6 mg.
Phosphorus : 22 mg.
Potassium : 310 mg.
Fat : .1 gm.
Carbohydrates : 12 gm.
Protein : .5 gm.
Calories : 46

NATURAL BENEFITS OF PRUNES

1.Prunes contains contains a lot of fibers and sorbitol a stool loosening sugar.
2.Prunes helps to slow aging process of the brain and body.
3.Helps in cases of anemia.
4.Prunes are excellent for increasing one's vitality.
5.It helps in normal blood circulation.
6.It is a good remedy for sore throat.
7.It can help prevent cancer because of its high betacarotene content.

Nutritive Values of Prunes : Per 100 gm.

Vitamin A : 1,890 I.U.
Vitamin B : Thiamine .10 mg.;
Riboflavin : .16 mg.;
Niacin : 1.7 mg.
Vitamin C : 3 mg.
Calcium : 11 mg.
Iron : .7 mg.
Phosphorus : 85 mg.
Potassium : 810 mg.
Fat : .6 gm.
Carbohydrates : 71 gm.
Protein : 2.3 gm.
Calories : 268

NATURAL BENEFITS OF LEMON

Lemon is an oval shape citrus fruit. Lemon is used as a beverage and an ingredient to some dishes to enchance its flavor. Lemon contains flavonoid a compound that contains antioxidant and anti-cancer properties.

Nutritive Values of Lemon : Per 100 gm.

Vitamin B : Thiamine .04 mg.;
Riboflavin : Trace;
Vitamin C : 50 mg.
Calcium : 40 mg.
Phosphorus : 22 mg.
Carbohydrates : 8.7 gm.
Protein : .9 gm.
Calories : 32

Health Benefits of Lemon :

1.As a natural antiseptic, the juice of the lemon will destroy harmful bacteria found in the cuts and other areas of infection.
2.For toothache, apply fresh lemon juice on the painful are.
3.For skin problems, the juice of the lemon should be applied directly to the skin and allowed to dry especially for acne and eczema, then remove with water with olive oil added. The juice is also good for the removal of blackheads, freckles and wrinkles.
4.Lemon juice when applied to hair after rinsing it , will give shine and volume to your hair.
5.Lemon juice helps to prevent and cure osteoarthritis.
6.Helps to prevent diabetes.
7.Lemon juice helps in preventing the development and progression of atherosclerosis.
8.Lemon juice is a great liver tonic.

NATURAL BENEFITS OF PAPAYA

Papayas is a pear shaped tropical fruit and than be as long as 7 to 20 inches. This fruit is available in the market throughout the year, but most abundant during the summer.

Nutritive values : Per 100 gm.

Vitamin A : 1,750 I.U
Vitamin C : 56 mg.
Calcium : 20 mg.
Phosphorus : 16 mg.
Potassium : 470 mg.
Carbohydrates : 10 gm
Calories : 39
Also contains Vitamin E and K

Health Benefits of Papaya :

1.Papaya contains the digestive enzyme papain that is why it is valuable for aiding digestion.
2.The ripe fruit is easily digestible and prevents constipation.
3.It is shown in a study that this fruit when taken alone for 3 days has a beneficial tonic effect in the stomach and intestines.
4.Papaya juice helps in relieving infections of the colon and can help break down pus and mucus.
5.May help prevent cancer in organs and glands with epithelial tissue (ripe papaya).
6.Prevents nausea (includes morning sickness and motion sickness). Taken 230cc. Of papaya juice or pineapple juice.
7.Slices of green fruits rubbed over meat and boiled with tough meat, make the meat more tender.
8.The seeds are antihelmintic, for expelling worms and they are given with honey. Chew and swallow two teaspoonful of seeds after each principal meal (three times a day).

NATURAL BENEFIT OF AVACADO

Avocado is a pear shape with dark green or blackish skin with a large seed. It is a fruit belonging to the genus Persea in the Lauraceae family.

Avocado is a very nutritional fruit, it is cholesterol free and sodium free fruit.

Nutritive Values : Per 100 gm.

Vitamin A : 290 I.U
Thiamine : 290 mg.
Niacin : 1.1 mg.
Vitamin C : 16 mg.
Calcium : 10 mg.
Phosphorus : 38 mg.
Fat : 26.4 gm. (monounsaturated)
Carbohydrates : 5.1 gm.
Protein : 1.7 gm.
Calories : 245

Health Benefits of Avocado :

1.For malnutrition because of the plentiful supply of vitamins and minerals.
2.Readily taken by ulcer patients.
3.Inflamed conditions of the mucous membranes, particularly the stomach, small intestines and colon.
4.Help in Male impotency because of its richness in nutrients.
5.Beneficial for women in their menopause
6.Constipation
7.Insomnia
8.Nervousness
9.For youthful and healthy skin use avocado oil. It is a good facial oil.

NATURAL BENEFITS OF APRICOT

1.Apricot has high mineral content, that makes it beneficial in cases of anemia, tuberculosis, asthma, bronchitis, and toxemia.
2.Apricot is high in vitamin A, that is why it is very helpful in the removal of skin pimples and other skin disorder.
3.Apricot contain lycopene, this substance can help prevent cancer and help to protect LDL cholesterol from oxidation, which may help prevent heart disease.
4.It helps destroy intestinal worms.
5.It may help remove gallstones.
6.It is it helps in preventing cancer in organs lined by epithelial tissue, due to its high vitamin A content.

Nutritive Values : Per 100 grams

Vitamin A : 2,790 I.U.
Vitamin B : Thiamine .3 mg.;
Vitamin C : 7 mg.
Calcium : 16 mg.
Phosphorus : 23 mg.
Carbohydrates : 12.9 gm.
Protein : 1.0 gm.
Calories : 51

NATURAL BENEFITS OF GRAPEFRUIT

1.Grapefruit is very helpful in removing or dissolving inorganic calcium which may have formed in the cartilage of the joints, as in arthritis, as a result of an excessive consumption of devitalized white flour products. Fresh grapefruit contains organic salicylic acid, which aids in dissolving such inorganic calcium in the body.
2.Grapefruit can help in weight loss, since it is low in sodium, high in fat burning enzymes. Low sodium intake can help flush out excess water that is caused by high sodium food.
3.Grapefruit has high water content, and an increased water consumption can help increase metabolism.
4.Grapefruit is a rich source of Vitamin C
5.Grapefruit is rich in lycopene (the red color/pigment), it helps to prevent to occurance of tumor and cancer.
6.It is a liver tonic
7.Helps in cases of Gallstones
8.Helps in cases of Cold, Pneumonia, Fever
9.It is a powerful drug-poison eliminator
10.Helps in proper digestion of food
11.Can help improve complexion
12.Grapefruit is a natural antiseptic for wounds when used externally.

Nutritive Values : Per 100 gm.

Vitamin A : Trace
Vitamin B : Thiamine .04 mg.;
Riboflavin : .02 mg.;
Niacin : .2 mg.
Vitamin c ; 40 mg.
Calcium : 22 mg.
Iron : .2 mg.

NATURAL BENEFITS OF TANGERINE

1.Tangerine is a rich source of Vitamin C
2.It is also a good source of Beta-carotene
3.Tangerine is recommended to help reduce fever and for relieving congestion of the liver.
4.Some people said that tangerine can help cure syphilis, maybe because of its antiseptic property.
5.It may help prevent cancer in organ lined with epithelial tissue, due to its high vitamin A content.

Tangerine is helpful :

Obesity
Bronchitis
Pneumonia
Arthritis
Rheumatism
Asthma
Catarrh
High blood pressure
Various skin ailments

Nutritive Values : Per 100 gm.

Vitamin A : 420 I.U
Vitamin B : Thiamine .07 mg.;
Riboflavin : .03 mg.;
Niacin : .2 mg.
Vitamin C : 31 mg.
Calcium : 33 mg.
Iron : .4 mg.
Phosphorus : 23 mg.
Potassium : 110 mg.
Magnesium :
Fat : .3 gm
Carbohydrates : 10.9 gm.
Protein : .8 gm.
Calories : 44

NAURAL BENEFITS OF CANTALOUPE

Scientific Name : Cucumis melo reticulatus

A variety of melon of the cucumber family. It is eaten as dessert fruit, it can be made as a refreshing drink and salads.

Vitamin and Mineral Content :

Vitamin A : 3,420 I.U.
Potassium : 242 mg.

Beneficial in the Following Illnesses :

Fever
High blood pressure
Obesity
Rheumatism
Arthritis
Disorders of the kidneys and bladder
Constipation
Abdominal and stomach gas
Skin diseases
Blood deficiencies
May help prevent cancer in organs and glands with epithelial tissue due to its high Vitamin A content.

NATURAL BENEFITS OF CHERRIES

1.Cherries red pigment is called anthocyanins, this pigment has been shown to reduce pain and inflammation.
2.Cherry Anthocyanins are also a powerful antioxidant.
3.Cherries help stimulate the secretion of digestive juices and of the urine and are effective cleansers of the liver and kidneys.
4.Eating large quantities of cherries, from one half pound and up daily, has been found to bring relief to patients with gout, a disease that is characterized by an excess of uric acid in the blood and attacks of arthritis.
5.Cherry also contain a high level of melatonin, is a substance that is important in the immune system function. Study shown that people who experience heart attack have low melatonin levels.
6.May help prevent cancer in organs and glands with epithelial tissue due to its high Vitamin A content.
7.Cherries is also helpful in the following cases ;
Anemia
Colds (runny nose)
Obesity
Cramps
Intestinal worm
High blood Pressure
Rheumatism
Asthma

Nutritive Values : Per 100 gm.

Vitamin A : 620 I.U.
Vitamin B : Thiamine .05 mg.;
Riboflavin : .06 mg.;
Niacin : .4 mg.
Vitamin C : 8 mg.
Calcium : 18 mg.
Iron : .4 mg.
Phosphorus : 20 mg.
Fat : .5 gm.
Carbohydrates : 14.8 gm.
Protein : .5 gm.
Calories : 61

Sunday, October 14, 2007

RAVA LADDO



Rava Laddo

Semolina(fine) 2 cups
Castor sugar 1 cup
Ghee 1/2 cup
Warm milk 1/2 cup
Cardamom(optional) 1/4 tsp
Raisin 1 tbspn
Cashew nut 1 tbspn

1.Heat wok with ghee, fry raisin and cashew, keep aside fried nuts.
2.Fry semolina in that ghee for about 30 minutes in low flame till the raw smell goes
3.Add castor sugar and fry along with roasted semolina for about 10 minutes in low flame. Add roasted nuts.
4.Allow to cool forsometime. when you touch mixture it should be warm, sprinkle milk little by little and mix well with mixture and apply ghee in hand and make laddos.

Rava Laddo is made in various methods with coarse or bansi rava and sugar syrup with one string consistency. This method is done by my aunt. However laddo is a laddo

Friday, October 12, 2007

NATURAL BENEFITS OF VEGETABLES AND FRUITS

We all eat vegetables, Fruits, greens everyday. But do we know that we are suppose to consume certain serves of vegetables and fruits per day?
No, most of us do not know. All we know is vegies, Fruits, greens and nuts have certain nutritional values.

According to recommended fact, we are suppose to consume 10 servings of vegetables and fruits everyday. Physically its diffcult to have 10 servings of vegies and fruits everyday. That is the reason doctors recommend to take organic health supplements. So that these supplements provide us important phytonutrients and antioxidants which we noramlly miss in our daily intakes.

Please understand that just by consuming supplements it will not be of any help in healthwise. Always it is recommended that you take more of Vegies, Fruits, Greens and Nuts which has naturally variety of benefits. Along with the healthy vegies fruits take supplements which will have an additional benefit value to maintain your health in good condition.

In this post, I want to share about the natural benefits of Vegetables.
These items have natural inbuilt nutritional and medicinal values. It will be more appropriate if all of us know the benfits, as well as make use of the benefits by consuming what our body needs naturally. Let us all make sincere effort to change our normal eating style to a healthy style.

Mind is corrupted always, by giving reasons...No....not possible ...I cannot do..
Come on friends ...You can do it ...Change folks....the sooner, the better.

By transforming yourself from normal eating style to healthy eating style you are doing a favour to your body which leads to a HEALTHY BODY. A healthy body gives a HEALTHY MIND, a healthy mind gives a HEALTHY SOUL.

The valuable information of health benefits of vegetables, fruits, greens and nuts are given by LEN's website. I sincerely thank LEN for the information given.

NATURAL BENEFITS OF TOMATO :

1.A large consumption of tomato can help improve skin texture and color.
2.Tomato is a good blood purifier.
3.Tomato helps in cases of congestion of the liver (protects the liver from cirrhosis) as well as for dissolving gallstones.
4.Tomato is a natural antiseptic therefore it can help protect against infection Nicotinic acid in tomatoes can help to reduce blood cholesterol, thus helps prevent heart diseases.
5.Vitamin K in tomatoes helps to prevent haemorrhages.
6.Tomato contain lycopene (the red pigment in tomato), this pigment is a powerful antioxidant that can also fight cancer cells.

NATURAL BENEFITS OF ONION

Onion is being used for centuries not just to add flavor to foods but also for its therapeutic properties. Onion have an antibacterial and antifungal properties. Some people mixed vinegar with onion juice and apply it in their freckles and warts, it is believed that it can remove/reduce this skin problems.

Nutritive Values of Onions : Per 100 gm.

Vitamin A : 50 I.U.
Vitamin B :
Vitamin C : 9 mg.
Calcium : 32 mg.
Phosphorus : 44 mg.
Potassium : 300 mg.
Carbohydrates : 10.3 gm.
Protein : 1.4 mg.
Calories : 45

Health Benefits of Onion :

Diuretic (increases the secretion of urine)
Slightly laxative
High Blood Pressure
Sinus conditions - helps to drain mucus from the cavities and loosen phlegm.
Valuable for the hair, nails of the fingers and toes, and for the eyes.
Diabetes mellitus - lowers blood sugar.
Asthma
Lowers cholesterol
Bronchitis (inflammation of the bronchial tube)
Pneumonia
Antiallergy
Reduce inflammation
Influenza
Colds
Tuberculosis
Insomnia
Neuritis (inflammation of the nerves)
Vertigo (inflammation of nerves)
Obesity
Helps destroy worms and other parasites.
Whether fresh or cooked onions have antiplatelet, adhesiveness, thus preventing thrombosis.
Prolong longevity

NATURAL BENEFITS OF BROCCOLI

Broccoli is a member of the cruciferous family, which includes kale, cabbage, cauliflower and brussel sprouts, this cruciferous family can help protect the body against cancer.

Broccoli contain a substance called Sulforaphane, this substance was shown to dramatically reduce the number, size and the reproduction of malignant tumors, as well as prevent it occurance.

Broccoli is also rich in fiber that can greatly help diabetics. Broccoli has the same calcium content as that of milk and it is also a rich source of Vitamin C and A.

Nutritive Values : Per 100 gm.

Vitamin A : 3,500 I.U.
Vitamin B : Thiamine .10 mg.;
Niacin : 1.1 mg.
Vitamin C : 118 mg. Also contains Vitamins E and K
Iron : 1.3 mg.
Phosphorus : 76 mg.
Potassium : 270 mg.
Carbohydrates : 5.5 gm.
Protein : 3.3 gm.
Calories : 29

Health Benefits of Broccoli :

Weight reduction
Anti-aging
Help prevent arthritis
Helps prevent alzheimer's disease
Constipation
Toxemia
Neuritis
High Blood Pressure
Helps regulate the digestions of food.
May help prevent cancer in organs and glands with epithelial tissue because of its high Vitamin A content.

NATURAL BENEFITS OF RADISH

Radish is a vegetable with thin white skin and white flesh, this vegetable can be eaten raw ( appetizer and salads) or cooked (ingredient to soup dishes). To retain the freshness and crunchiness of this vegetable it is advised to soak it in a cold water. Radish is rich in vitamin C.

Nutritive Values : Per 100 gm.

Vitamin A : 30 I.U.
Vitamin B : Thiamine .03 mg.;
Vitamin C : 24 mg.
Calcium : 37 mg.
Iron : 1.0 mg.
Phosphorus : 31 mg.
Potassium : 130 mg.
Carbohydrates : 4.2 gm.
Protein : 1.2 gm.
Calories : 20

Health Benefits of Radish :

Beneficial for the teeth, gums, nerves, hair and nails.
Stimulate appetite.
Relieve nervous exhaustion.
Respiratory problems
Digestive problems
Relieves constipation
Runny nose
Helps to reduce overweight or obesity and dissolves gall stones.
Helpful in cases of tuberculosis.
Radish also has a mild diuretic effect, increasing the production of urine by the kidneys.
Good for diabetics just like cucumber and bitter gourd.

NATURAL BENEFITS OF CABBAGE

1.Cabbage contain phytonutrients, works to protect the body from free radicals that can damage the cell membranes. Phytonutrients also signal our genes to increase its production of enzymes involved in detoxification.
2.Cabbage may lower the incidence of cancer, especially in the lung, stomach and colon prostate.
3.Cabbage is a muscle builder, blood cleanser and eye strengthener.
4.The juice of fresh raw cabbage has been proven to heal stomach ulcer.
5.Cabbage is rich in iron and sulfur.
6.Juice of fresh cabbage is effective in treating fungus infection(due to it sulfur content).
7.Cabbage can lower serum cholesterol.
8.Cabbage contain Sulforaphane, a substance that can increase the production of antioxidant and detoxification enzymes. Sulforaphane works by stimulating the production of glutathione, the body's most important internally produced antioxidant which plays a role in liver detoxification.
9.Red Cabbage has more phytonutrients than the green cabbage. The vitamin C content of red cabbage is 6-8 times higher than that of the green cabbage.
10.Red cabbage contain anthocyanin (red pigment/color) is an antioxidant that can help protect brain cells, thus can help prevent Alzheimer's disease

Nutritive Values of Cabbage : Per 100 gm.

Vitamin A : 80 I.U.
Vitamin c : 50 mg.
Calcium : 46 mg.
Phosphorus : 31 mg.
Potassium : 140 mg.
Carbohydrates : 5.3 gm.
Protein : 1.4 gm.
Calories : 24

NATURAL BENEFITS OF BEANS

Health Benefits of Beans :

1.Bean can help prevent anemia because it is rich in vitamins and minerals, especially iron.
2.Bean is very helpful in constipation.
3.It is recommended for people who want to build their muscle and make their body stronger.
4.Study shown that all kinds of beans can help lower serum cholesterol and triglyceride level in the body.

Nutritive Values of Beans : Per 100 gm.

Vitamin A : 280 I.U.
Vitamin B : Thiamine .21 mg.;
Riboflavin : .11 mg.;
Niacin : 1.4 mg.
Vitamin C : 32 mg.
Calcium : 63 mg.
Iron : 2.3 mg.
Phosphorus : 158 mg.
Potassium : 200 mg.
Fat : .8 gm.
Carbohydrates : 23.5 gm.
Protein : 7.5 gm.
Calories : 128

NATURAL BENEFITS OF CAULIFLOWER

Health Benefits of Cauliflower :

1.Cauliflower just like the other cruciferous vegetables (cabbage, broccoli, kale) contain a substance that can help prevent cancer.
2.Cauliflower contains glucosinolates and thiocyanates this substances helps increase the liver's ability to neutralize a potencially toxic substance.
3.Cauliflower is a blood and liver detoxifier.
4.Cauliflower contain Sulforaphane. Sulforaphane is a substance that is formed when the cauliflower is chewed, this substance trigger the liver to produce enzymes that can remove cancer causing chemicals. Sulforaphane can also stop the spread of cancer cells , even in the later stages of their growth.
5.Cauliflower is also helpful in the following cases :
Kidney and bladder disorders
Asthma
High blood pressure
Arthritis
Bad Complexion
Constipation

Nutritive Values : Per 100 gm.

Vitamin A : 900 mg.
Vitamin B : Thiamine .11 mg.;
Riboflavin : .10 mg.;
Niacin : .6 mg.;
Vitamin C : 69 mg.
Calcium : 22 mg.
Iron : 1.1 mg.
Phosphorus : 72 mg.
Fat : .2 gm.
Carbohydrates : 4.9 gm.
Calories : 25

NATURAL BENEFITS OF BEETROOT / RED BEET

Red Beets is loaded with antioxidant that helps the body against heart disease, certain cancer especially colon cancer and even birth defects.

Betacyanin is the pigment that gives beets their red color, this pigment is also a powerful cancer fighting agent.

Nutritive Values : Per 100 gm.

Vitamin A : 20 I.U.
Vitamin B :
Vitamin C : 10 mg.
Calcium : 27 mg.
Iron : 1.0 mg.
Phosphorus : 43 mg.
Carbohydrates : 9.6 gm.
Protein : 1.6 gm.
Calories : 42

Red Beets is also beneficial in the following disorder :

Headaches, toothaches, inflammation of the kidneys and bladder, including bladder and kidney stone.
Red beet therapy, consisting of consumption of approximately two pounds of raw, mashed beets daily, has been favorably reported for cases of leukemia and tumors (includes cancer).
Valuable for constipation.
Liver ailments (jaundice).
Dysentery (inflammation of intestines)
Skin disorders such as pimples.
Obesity
Lumbago
Anemia
Nervousness
Menstrual disorders

NATURAL BENEFITS OF CARROT

Carrot is Daucus carota sativus of the parsley family.
Carrot is a vegetable grown for its edible root. Raw carrot are eaten in salads and are mixed with some viands.

Carrot contain carotene, a chemical that is converted into vitamin A by the body, it helps prevent night blindness.

Health Benefits of Carrot :

1.Carrot can enhance the quality of breastmilk.
2.Carrot can improve the appearance of the skin, hair and nails.
3.When taken daily it can lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
4.Raw contain betacarotene, a strong antioxidant that can prevent cancer.
5.Carrot juice when taken everyday prevent bodily infections and is claimed to be valuable for the adrenal glands (the small endocrine glands situated above the kidneys).
6.Carrot can help improve eyesight.
7.Carrot can help increase menstrual flow.
8.Carrots can regulate blood sugar.
9.Carrot can promote colon health, because carrot is rich in fiber.

Carrot is also helpful in the following cases :

Obesity
Poisoning of the blood
Gum disease
Insomnia
Inflamed Kidneys, Liver, Gallbladder
Alzheimer's disease
Colitis
Ulcer
Painful urination

Vitamin and Mineral Content :

Vitamin A - 12,000 I.U, Vitamin B , Thiamine B1, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, E, G, & K
Calcium, Iron, Phosphorus
Fat, Carbohydrates, Protein, Calories

NATURAL BENEFITS OF SOYBEAN

Soybeans contains carbohydrate, fat, protein, vitamins, minerals like calcium, folic acid and iron. The protein in soybean has all the essential amino acids that is adequate for human health.

Nutritive Value of Soybean : Per 100 gm.

Vitamin A : 110 I.U.
Vitamin B : Thiamine 1.07 mg.;
Niacin : 2.3 mg.
Vitamin C : Trace
Calcium : Trace
Iron : 8.0 mg.
Phosphorus : 586 mg.
Potassium : 540 mg.
Fat : 18.1 gm.
Carbohydrates : 34.8 gm.
Protein : 34.0 gm.
Calories : 331

Health Benefits of Soybean :

1. Soybean is an excellent food for diabetes.
2. It is easily digested and is one of the most nourishing and body building foods in the world.
3. It is especially good for growing children to aid growth and development.
4. Soybean has high lecithin content and is therefore excellent for mental fatigue and for protection against cholesterol deposits.
5. It has been claimed that lecithin lowers blood cholesterol thru emulsification of fats and is valuable against the development and hardening of the arteries and all the complications of the heart, brain, kidneys and eyes that follow.
6. Lecithin is a brain food, a tonic and energizer.
7. It has been reported that diabetic patients were successfully treated with lecithin.
8. It has also been reported that lecithin is effective in treating psoriasis.
9. Prevents gall stones, when adequate lecithin is included in the diet.
10. Liquid lecithin application helps heal bed sores and persistent diaper rash.It is also reported to prevent pellagra, the disease marked by disturbances of the stomach and intestines, skin eruptions and many nervous symptoms such as melancholia.
11. Because of the high content of linoleic and linolenic acids (unsaturated fatty acids), this food is conducive to a healthy skin and corrects many cases of eczema.
12. The pure pressed oil is used for skin conditions, as it contain the natural and lecithin. Soybeans have about twenty times more alkali than milk.
13. Lecithin has the ability to increase the gamma globulin content of the blood . The gamma globulins are known to be associated with the natures protective force against the attack of various infections in the body, thus increasing immunity.

NATURAL BENEFITS OF CUCUMBER

Cucumber is a fruit that came from the same family as pumpkin, zucchini and other squashes. It has a dark green rind and white succulent flesh. There are 2 types of cucumbers the pickling varieties and the slicing varieties. The pickling variety is relatively small (2 - 4 inches long).

Nutritive Values : Per 100 gm.

Vitamin A 180 I.U.
Niacin Trace
Vitamin C 9 mg.
Calcium 32 mg.
Iron 1.8 mg.
Phosphorus 27 mg.
Potassium 80 mg.
Carbohydrates 17 gm.
Calories 70

Health Benefits :

1.Cucumber is best natural diuretic known, secreting and promoting the flow of urine.
2.Helps in kidney and urinary bladder disease.
3.Liver disease
4.Pancreatic disease
5.The potassium content of cucumber makes it highly useful for conditions of high and low blood pressure.
6.Cucumber contains erepsin, the enzyme that helps to digest protein.
7.The high silicon and sulphur content of the cucumber is said to promote the growth of hair, especially when the juice of the cucumber is added to the juice of carrot, lettuce and spinach.
8.A mixture of cucumber juice with carrot juice is said to be beneficial for rheumatic conditions resulting from excessive uric acid in the body.
9.Cucumber juice is also valuable for helping diseases of the teeth, gums, especially in cases of pyorrhea.
10.The high mineral content of this vegetable also helps to prevent splitting of nails of the fingers and toes.
11.Cucumber, radish and bitter gourd are beneficial in diabetes.

NATURAL BENEFITS OF SWEET POTATO

1.Sweet potato is rich in Vitamin A (betacarotene) and Vitamin C. Both Vitamins A and C are powerful antioxidants that work in the body to remove free radicals, this free radicals are chemicals that damage cells.
2.Sweet potato is good for stomach ulcers and inflamed conditions of the colon.
3.It is beneficial for low blood pressure.
4.Helpful for hemorrhoid because of its high fiber content.
5.Sweet potato is a good food for people involved in heavy muscular work, since this food is high in vitamins and minerals.
6.Sweet potato may help prevent cancer in glands and organs with epithelial tissue due to its high Vitamin A content.
7.Sweet potato is a good food for diabetics, because it helped stabilize blood sugar levels.

Nutritive Values : Per 100 gm.

Vitamin A : 7,700 I.U.
Vitamin B : Thiamine .09 mg.;
Riboflavin : .05 mg.
Niacin : .6 mg.
Vitamin C : 22 mg.
Calcium : 30 mg.
Iron : .7 mg.
Phosphorus : 49 mg.
Potassium : 300 mg.
Fat : .7 gm.
Carbohydrates : 27.9 gm.
Protein : 1.8 gm.
Calories : 123

NATURAL BENEFITS OF COCONUT

Coconut is a tropical fruit that is rich in protein. The meat of the coconut is very good in destroying intestinal parasites, that we get from eating infected food. Coconut water is good for kidney and urinary bladder problems.

Nutritive Values : Per 100 gm.

Vitamin A :
Vitamin B : Thiamine .10 mg.;
Riboflavin :
Niacin :
Vitamin C : 2 mg.
Calcium : 21 mg.
Iron : 2.0 mg.
Phosphorus : 98 mg.
Fat : 34.7 gm.
Carbohydrates : 14 gm.
Protein : 3.4 gm.
Calories : 359

Health Benefits of Coconut :

1.Prevents simple goiter (enlarged non-toxic thyroid) because of its organic iodine content.
2.Good body builder, so it is a food recommended for building up the body muscles of thin and emaciated individuals.
3.Constipation and for any build-up of gas in the stomach and intestinal tract.
4.Coconut milk has been found to help cases of sore throat as well as relieving stomach ulcers.
6.Coconut oil has been found to heal cuts, scratches, burns and sunburns.
7.The oil has also been recommended for facial massage and is reported to be good as a wrinkle remover.
9.Coconut oil is also good for the scalp and hair and makes hair dressing unnecessary.
10.Intake of at least 2 Tbsp. of Virgin coconut oil per day can lessen your Vitamin E requirement.
11.Coconut water is good for kidney and urinary bladder problems.

NATURAL BENEFIT OF CORN

Health Benefits of Corn :

1.Corn is a body building food.
2.Corn is helpful in kidney problems including renal dysfunction. Eat everyday a soft and boiled corn. For other kidney problem; boil 4 tsp. of cornsilk in 21/2 cups of water for 20 mins. Strain and allow to cool. Drink ½ cup every 4 hours.
3.Corn bran is a heart protector, when eaten everyday it can lower cholesterol in the body. The soluble fiber in corn binds with cholesterol in bile from the liver. It then passes from the body taking the cholesterol with it.
4.Cornstarch can prevent diaper rash.

Other Cases wherein Corn is Beneficial :

Anemia
Constipation
Gout - boil 2 fresh cobs in 4 cups of water for 45 minutes, then strain and allow to cool. Place in the refrigerator. Drink one cup three times a day. Once there is relief, reduce your intake to one cup a day.

Nutritive Values : Per 100 gm.

Vitamin A : 390 I.U.
Vitamin B : Thiamine .15 mg.;
Niacin : 1.7 mg.
Vitamin C : 12 mg.
Calcium : 9 mg.
Phosphorus : 120 mg.
Fat : 1.2 gm.
Carbohydrates : 20.5 gm.
Protein : 3.7 gm.
Calories : 92

NATURAL BENEFITS OF BITTER GOURD

Bitter gourd (Latin Momordica charantia) is also called Balsam pear or bitter melon or Karela. BitterGourd is widely grown in India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, the Philippines, China and the Caribbean.

Minerals and Vitamins content in BitterGourd
(Values per 100 gms raw bittergourd without seeds)
Calcium 20 mg
Phosphorus 70 mg
Iron 1.8 mg
Vitamin C 88 mg
Small amounts of Vitamin B Complex

Health Benefits :

1.The bitter gourd has long been used as traditional medicine for diabetes . Recent researches by a team of British doctors have established that it contains a compund which is highly beneficial in lowering the blood and urine sugar levels.
2.It increases body's resitance against infection.
3.Juice of the fresh leaves of bitter gourd is valuable in piles. Three teaspoonfuls of leaf juice mixed with a glassful of milk should be taken every morning for about a month in this condition.
4.It helps purify blood tissue, enhances digestion, and stimulates the liver.
5.Bitter gourd is highly beneficial in the treatment of blood disorders like blood boils, scabies, itching, psoriasis, ring-worm and other fungal diseases. some people recommend drinking the juice of bitter gourd in an empty stomach, but I prefer to have cooked bitter gourd with meal. Drinking the juice in an empty stomach may cause gas and heartburn.

SHAVIGE / VERMICELLI PAYASA




Shavige Payasa

Roasted Vermicelli 1 cup
Boiled water 1 cup
Boiled milk 2 cups
Roasted rasin and cashenuts 2 tbspn
Sugar 3/4 cup
Cardamom powder(optional) 1/4 tspn

1.Add boiled water and roasted vermecelli in a vessel and cook.
2.Add sugar and cook for another 5 minutes in low flame
3.Add milk and cook for 5 minutes in low flame.
4.Garnish with nuts.

Shavige payasa or semiya payasam is very common sweet made at every home for auspicious ocassion for naivedya (offering to god). Its very simple, yet special but superb in taste.

KADLEBELE EREKAI SOPPU KOOTU



KADLEBELE EREKAI SOPPU KOOTU

Chana Dal 1 cup
Spinach(chopped) 250 gm
Erekai/ridge gourd/Beerkaya/Peerkanga(Chopped) 2 Cups
Chopped Tomato 1
Turmeric Powder 1/4 tspn
Red chilli power 1 tbspn
Coriander powder 1 tbspn
1/2 Lime juice
Mustard 1 tsp
clove 2
cinnamon stick 1 inch
Oil 2 tbspn
Salt

1.Cook chana dal with cloves, cinnamon with 3 cups water in pressue cooker.
2.Heat vessel with oil, add mustard, tomatoes, spinach and ridge gourd stir well.
3.Add chilli, coriander, turmeric powder and salt, cook for 5 minutes.
4.Add cooked dal in spnach mixture and cook for 5-8 minutes.
5.Once cooked turn off. Add lime juice.

Dal n veg n greens combination is Nutritious and healthy. Taste is fantastic. Its certainly a good match with chappathi or rice.

Wednesday, October 10, 2007

CRISPY SPREAD BREAD SANDWICH





Crispy Spread Bread Sandwich

For Spread
Yogurt 1/2 cup
Fine semolina 1/2 cup
Chopped onion 1/4 cup
Chopped Tomato 1/4 cup
chopped green chillies 1 tspn
Chopped coriander 1 tspn
Salt

1.Mix yogurt and semolina well, now add all chopped ingredients and salt. mix well.
2.Heat tava and spray oil. Meanwhile take bread and spread the mixture on bread.
3.Place spreaded bread on tave for 2 minutes in medium flame ,spray oil on top of the bread and put upside down for 2-3 minutes. It gets brown and cooked.
4.Crispy bread sandwich is ready. Eat hot.

Sick and tired of bread ....eating in same old style... bread and jam/ bread with butter, cheese / bread with vegies/bread and omellette. Try this you will love it. I learnt from my friend, she learnt from her friend. Its so quick 1.2.3..steps.

Monday, October 8, 2007

SWEET DELIGHTS FOR JOY



In India its a trend to prepare sweets very often. For every ocassion, Sweets are symbolic of joy and to celebrate the joy we make sweets and enjoy the joy by eating sweets and sharing sweets with family and friends .

There are variety of home made sweets right from dry, wet, solid and liquid form of sweet. Sweets come in various colours, shapes, designs, textures, fragrances and presenatations. You have millions of sweet recipes based on combinations of Rice, Dal, jaggery, Semolina, sugar, ghee, various grain flours, miik based products, Dry fruits and nuts, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, pineapple, Ash gourd, saffron, some spices coconut and many more. To name a few I have mentioned commonly used items.

Trust me there are special sweets particularly made for certain occasions. Example weddings, festivals, house warming, naming ceremony, ear peircing ceremony.
There is a ceremony Shraadha done for people who are no more. In this ceremony the dishes and sweets are different but the taste is unique from the normal.

Well, sweets are dominated in the begining as well as at the end of the meal. Sweets are mouth watering stuff. Anything you eat must be in limit or you tend to become DIABETIC or OBESE. So I request my friendly readers to enjoy the sweets but with limit. With no limitations in anything can damage you to a large extent. I would like to remind you again. Prevention is better than cure, and always remember before you eat anything : HEALTH IS WEALTH.

We take lot of time in prepartion. This sweet is very easy and quick in preparation. This recipe is for people with time management.

MICROWAVE MILK POWDER BURFI

Nestle Milk Powder 2 and 1/2 cups
Thickened Cream 150ml
Castor Sugar ¾ cup

1. Take a mixing bowl and mix cream with milkpowder and sugar.
Mix well so that no lump is formed.
2. Take a square shaped or round shaped microwave safe bowl-grease it with butter.
3. Pour the mixture in the bowl and keep in microwave for 2 min,
later 2 min,then 1 minute.
3. Different microwave has different in built system and that is why the pauses.
4. Once you find that it is turned slightly brown, remove from microwave oven.
5. Take plate and put upside down the microwaved bowl on the plate.
Grease the knife and cut into pieces.

Milk powder burfi aroma is so tempting that you cannot resist. You grab a spoon and immideately you taste a bite. I bet you, you wont stop with one bite, you want to eat more. Dont be greedy to eat everything. Liberaly share with others.