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The Vaishnodevi Experience 2023

My first trip to Vaishnodevi was unimpressive. Climbing was hard, and it only served to highlight how badly out of shape I was, while my in-laws managed to cope so much better. Further, I hadn’t quite realized that the cave experience wouldn’t be the same as I had imagined, since the original cave was only opened at certain times a year, and that we only entered a newly created tunnel, one far easier to access, and hence more manageable with the crowds that thronged the mountain shrine. The resulting experience at the shrine, for barely a fraction of a second, hardly compared to what I had expected / imagined / heard about. So, for me, Vaishnodevi was like any other temple, nothing to write home about, something that was reflected (though not explicitly mentioned) in the blog post I wrote then.
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Navaratri Day 6: Dashavatar Set from Chennapatna

Navaratri for me, is all about the Golu. Many of you must have been wondering why I still haven't posted any photos of Golus. The reason, rather prosaically is that I can't celebrate the festival this year, and, unfortunately, neither can many of our relatives, and friends. That, plus some unexpected events have kept me from visiting and posting about Golus so far. Meanwhile, I am sharing with you today, one of the items on my wishlist for next year's Golu....



I saw this beautifully carved wooden set of the  Dashavtar at Chennapatna. The small town is known for its wooden toys, and whenever I am in the vicinity, I can't help stopping, even if just for a look!! Of course, I always end up buying something... I did buy some toys for Samhith and a few gifts for friends, but I restrained my temptation to buy this beautiful set! Maybe another time! 
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Location: Channapattana, Karnataka 562160, India

Comments

  1. Meghana HassanOctober 1, 2014 at 10:46 AM

    Yes Anu, we r really missing your posts on Golu.. Do visit my place for golu, if you r in Thane sometime during the festival.. My MIL recently bought a pagade game from Channapatna. How I wish I could visit that place sometime.. Yeah, we know how particular you are abt the features of Dashavatar doll set..

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    1. Anuradha ShankarOctober 1, 2014 at 10:52 AM

      Thank you, Meghana! I am so sorry, but not this year... maybe next time. Its so hectic around here right now, I havent been able to go anywhere :( you really should go to chennapatna. you will go crazy with all the beautiful stuff they have!

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