Iniya Puthaanda Nal Vaazthakkal

Today is Tamil New Year. It is also New Year's in neighbouring Kerala where they celebrate Vishu. Other parts of India are also celebrating their harvest festivals and New Year's including Baisakhi in Punjab (among Hindus and Sikhs), Rongali Bihu in Assam and Naba Barsha in Bengal (lit. New Year). They call India a land of festivals and true to its name, the festivities continue tomorrow as it is Ram Navaami (Lord Ram's Birthday). As a few of you will be aware, my family name is derived in part from Lord Ram (ie, Ramanathan).

If I was in Tamil Nadu today, I would be participating in the Chariot/Car Festival. It's been more than 18 years!