Heat fails to sear Ugadi spirit

Heat fails to sear Ugadi spirit
Deccan Herald

In market areas like Malleswaram, Gandhi Bazaar, Srirampuram, Jayanagar 4th and 9th Blocks, Ulsoor and Madivala, people thronged to buy the traditional bevu (neem) and mavu (mango) leaves for Rs 5 a bunch and bella (jaggery).

Bangaloreans beat the March heat to shop for Ugadi goodies on Wednesday.

In market areas like Malleswaram, Gandhi Bazaar, Srirampuram, Jayanagar 4th and 9th Blocks, Ulsoor and Madivala, people thronged to buy the traditional bevu (neem) and mavu (mango) leaves for Rs 5 a bunch and bella (jaggery). Shoppers complained about the rise in the price of flowers, a typical feature on the eve of Hindu festivals. One hand span of jasmine cost Rs 15. Raw mangoes were fresh arrivals on market shelves.

Garment and jewellery shops were overflowing with women customers, particularly because of the belief that new clothes and jewellery mark the start of a new year. Even houses are cleaned up for a fresh start. The festivities also mean family reunion and traditional Kannadiga families start celebrations with an oil bath at dawn.

Political banners in which the State’s new coalition wishes Bangaloreans a happy Ugadi are adorned with message of novae bevu, nalivae bella (neem for pain, jaggery for happiness), set in the meaningful backdrop of leaves symbolising the green of JD(S) and the orange lotus symbolising the BJP.

The copper coloured neem leaves that sprout during this season in abundance in the garden city are considered a good antidote for skin ailments, particularly to wipe out the marks left on the body by chicken pox and measles.

A large number of foreign tourists also land at Puttaparthi to wish Sri Satya Sai Baba in an effort to welcome the adi (beginning) of the yuga (period). In keeping with the tales from mythology, the devout throng temples of Krishna and make a fresh start in new business ventures.

While most of Bengaluru takes a holige break, those in the service industry like nurses, policemen, the hospitality sector and doctors have to continue with their daily routine. Roads, however, can breathe easy and deep on Thursday, as traffic takes a break until dusk, when the holiday and festive mood converts into a shopping spree.