Sphoorthi Theatre

  Hanuman’s birth is narrated in many different ways across Indian texts and regional traditions, each highlighting unique aspects of his divine origin. In the Valmiki Ramayana, the story emphasizes Anjana, Kesari, and the divine role of Vayu, who carried Shiva’s blessing into Anjana’s womb. Yet beyond this canonical telling, regional versions in Assamese, Kannada, Malayalam, and Bengali traditions add their own cultural layers, blending local folklore with the pan-Indian epic. Together, these narratives create a rich comparative tapestry, showing how Hanuman’s origin is remembered not only as a divine event but also as a reflection of diverse cultural imaginations across India. In the Valmiki Ramayana , Hanuman is described as the son of Anjana and Kesari, with Lord Vayu playing a crucial role. Anjana, a cursed apsara who became a vanara, prayed to Lord Shiva for a child. Shiva blessed her, and Vayu carried the divine essence into her womb. Thus Hanuman was born as Pavanputra , ...

  In the Mahabharata, the Vyuham were not merely battle formations. They were symbols of discipline, geometry, and dharma. Even in the midst of destruction, there was a sense of order—rules that gave dignity to combat. Abhimanyu’s entry into the Chakravyuh is remembered not only as a tactical moment but as a deeply human tragedy. Contrast this with today’s wars—Iran and the US, Russia and Ukraine, Israel and its neighbours. These conflicts often feel like battles without boundaries. Technology, propaganda, and brute force dominate, while ethics are blurred. The question arises: war for what?   The Contradiction of Our Age On one side, we advocate peace. Our daily prayers include “Sarve janaha sukhino bhavantu” —may all beings be happy. Yet who is truly happy? Nations chase superpower status, proving dominance at the cost of humanity. Starting a war is easy. Stopping it is nearly impossible. And who bears the cost? Not the leaders who declare it, but the common people ...

  My initial interest in the Padukalam Vizha was sparked by the deluge of social media videos that appeared to take over my feed, rather than by books or temple visits. The clips were intense—warriors engaging in combat, rites occurring, and the atmosphere electrified. The sights occasionally appeared unsettling, yet they ignited a profound curiosity within me. What was the nature of this tradition? What accounts for its enduring dedication even in contemporary times? My curiosity prompted me to investigate the saga of Ponnar and Shankar, the valiant brothers of Kongu Nadu, whose narrative has been recounted for generations and persists in festivals, temples, and contemporary media platforms. The Warrior Brothers of Kongu Nadu: Ponnar and Shankar This is the story of two brothers whose names are known all over Kongu Nadu. Their narrative isn't just about battles and bravery; it's also about faith, sacrifice, and the unbreakable link of family. Kolatha Gounder and his wife...

Parikrama—circumambulation around a sacred site—is one of the most profound practices in Hindu tradition. It symbolizes devotion, penance, and surrender to the divine, guiding the devotee inward toward the center of spiritual energy. Whether performed around a hill, a temple, or a river, Parikrama is more than a ritual walk; it is a journey of self-discovery, humility, and transformation. Girivalam – Arunachala Hill, Tiruvannamalai (Tamil Nadu) Walking barefoot around the 14 km circumference of Arunachala Hill, revered as Lord Shiva’s fiery manifestation (Agni Lingam), is known as Girivalam. Spiritual Depth: Believed to dissolve ego, bring inner peace, and lead devotees closer to self-realization. Ashta Lingams: Along the path stand eight lingams representing the cardinal directions. Worshipping them is said to cleanse sins, karmas, and fears. Healing Energy: Arunachala radiates intense spiritual vibrations, and devotees believe the walk rej...