Date: Sunday, 1^st November, 2009 from 10.30 am to 4.30 pm (six hour Non stop entertainment event)
 

Venue: East Coast Park E2, Castle Beach , few yards from the E2 car park

FUN AND FROLIC

 A communal harmony exhibition and unique experience of its own, very few can cherish the traditional feast, far away from the homes. A gathering in the midst of lush greenery. The bounty of Nature can be witnessed during Karteekam. Rivers flow with full force and the breeze from lush green trees, some of which have medicinal value, swaying in the forests are said to have beneficial effects on the people

Cool wintry breeze, lush green trees and flowers in full bloom mark the onset of the 'Karteekam', a month dedicated to Lord Siva. Apart from temples reverberating with the chant of prayers invoking Him, the other ubiquitous thing seen during the month, especially on weekends, is picnic.  While children eagerly look forward to the annual outing as a welcome break from the monotony of studies, elders see it as an excellent opportunity for family reunions, meeting relatives and friends.

In good old days, people use to bathe in the rivers and natural springs during the month. Having a coldwater bath in winter is good for the skin. The vanabhojanam concept also promotes community living and respecting one another's customs. Vana bhojanam (having food in the forest) is a concept which is said to have existed even during the time of Lord Krishna. While the amla tree is believed to be a symbol of Lord Mahavishnu, the forests in those days had a number of other trees, which had medicinal properties. Cooking in the open under these trees is believed to have several health benefits