Pav Bhaji

This is a fast food dish native to Maharashtrians and is popular in most Metropolitan areas in India.Pav in Marathi means Bread and the Bhaji is a term for a curry and a vegetable dish.Pav Bhaji consists of the bhaji (a potato based curry) with mixed vegetables and the Pav garnished with Coriander and Onions.It is consumed as a snack between lunch and dinner.

I started to eat and like it  with my friends from my school days .My school education  is at "Rajasthani English Medium School" in Vijayawada ,most of the friends are from the North apart from India and from them I came to know some Chaat recipe names & eat.For the School Farewell Party Function ,this Pav bhaji was one of the  party Favourite item  for Me and other South Indian Friends.My Mother never made for me , and I used to eat available on hand carts.My father used to get it for me in India almost when the Weekend comes ,after my marriage ,My husband started me to taste by taking to the street stalls at Hyderabad.I never forget these days when I eat Pav Bhaji .Everytime being tasted from the Vendors,so this time I tried it for the first time in the U.S by seeing various Internet resources .Among them I liked to prepare this with slight variation  from the http://www.gruhinii.com/ edited by Uma Ramana Garu.My kid & hubby liked it well.So,friends here goes my recipe.

Ingredients:

• Carrot-1 large cubed
• Poatatoes-2 cubed
• Cabbage-1 cup
• Capsicum-1 cup chopped
• Tomatoes-2 chopped
• Cauliflower florets-1 cup
• Onions-2 (1 onion is  finely grounded in to paste)
• French beans- 8 to 10 string and chop
• Green peas - 1/4 cup (frozen or dry peas soaked in water )
• Green chillies- 2 no slit in lengthwise
• Turmeric powder-1/4 tsp
• Salt-2 tsp or adjust to taste
• Red chillipowder-1/2 tsp
• Sugar-1/2 tsp (optional)
• Cashew paste -2tbsp
• Oil-1 1/2 tbsp
• Pav bhaji Masala-1 1/2 tbsps
• Lemon Juice-1tbsp

For the Pav:

• Pav / Pav breads- 6 or more of your choice
• Butter-1 tbsp(low fat butter)
• Salt & Red chillipowder - a pinch (optional)

Coriander leaves for Garnishing

Preparation:

• Pressure cook cabbage, carrot,potatoes,cauliflower,beans,peas and carrot along with 1 cup of water for 2 or 3 whistles ,till soft.Drain any left over water from the cooked vegetables and keep it aside.
• Mash all the cooked vegetables using a masher.
• Heat oil in a Vessel,add the green chillies and onions and saute for 4 minutes ,add the ginger garlic paste and saute it for another 3 minutes .Now add the capsicum and saute for 2minutes.
• Add the chillipowder,turmeric powder,Pav bhaji masala,sugar,Kaju/Cashew paste  & salt .Combine well and add the tomatoes & cook untill soft & leave the oil.
• Add the mashed vegetables along with  a cup of drained stock and cook on high for a minute.
• Reduce flame and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
• The gravy will begin to thicken .Adjust the salt if required ,add little butter & garnish with coriander leaves and the Bhaji is ready to serve .
• Now slice the Pav into two horizontal pieces and aply butter on it.Heat a tava and cook the Pav on both sides untill golden color &rub or  sprinkle with redchilipowder & salt (optional).
• Serve Pav with hot Bhaji & the Yummy Pav bhaji is ready to enjoy!!

Note:

• You can choose 2to 3 variety of vegetables for preparing the Bhaji and If the Beet root is used the curry gets the deep reddish purple color.

Lemon water ~ Lemon Juice

This Juice is easily prepared by every one and once if Kids are grown up,they can also start preparing by themselves without any help.In India,for summer season every one used to take fresh lemon water to avoid from the Sun stroke.So,this lemon water helps & strengthen us to protect from the sun and also a good remedy for Cough & cold if prepared and taken with the warm water.

Ingredients:

• Chilled Water or Normal water-2 glasses
• Lemon-1 no
• Honey-2 tbsps
• Ginger- 1/2 inch

Preparation:

• Wash and peel ginger.
• Crush the ginger and add Honey to it & mix well.
• Now add two glasses of Chilled or Normal water .Mix well.
• Serve it by pouring the Lemon water in to serving glass.

Punugulu

This item can be made easily if we have dosa dough readily at home.Dosa dough is not only used for making variety of dosa's,it can also be prepared Andhra famous snack item "Punugulu".It tastes excellent and goes well with the combination of tomato sauce or any other chutney (Coconut or Dhaniya /Coriander Chutney).I try these Punugulu regularly during evening time ; and also completes soon as soon as I preapare & serve it on  a plate to my Husband & my boy.So,the dosa dough helps to serve in various forms .Here goes the recipe.

Ingredients:

•  Dosa dough-1 cup
• Green chilly & Ginger paste-1tsp
• Salt -1 tsp ( as per taste)
• Cumin seeds-1tsp
• Sodium bicarbonate- a pinch
• Curry leaves- 6 to 8
• Coriander leaves- Finely cut
• Onion-1 finely chopped
• Maida - 2tbsp
• Oil to deep fry

Method:

• Take a large bowl,mix all the ingredients (Except the oil) and make a thick batter.
• Heat the pan by taking the sufficient oil for deep fry.Drop lemon size balls in to the oil and fry until golden brown.
• Drain these fried punugulu in to a paper towel .
• Serve these Punugulu hot with any Spicy powders or Chutneys.

Hope all would like to eat &Enjoy which are one of the most common snacks of Andhra Pradesh!!!

Note:

• You can also add chope dgreen chillies intead of ginger & chilly paste ,or red chilly powder for the Spicyness.
• Add peanuts for kids to taste them better.

Masala Besan Poori

Hi friends,this dish can be tasted as a morning breakfast or as a evening snack item.Looks like normal poori with wheat flour only the change is crisp pooris filled with the masala and frying the pooris.Kids can also like this simple Masala Besan Poori.So,here goes my recipe & Hope you try & like it.

Ingredients:

For the dough

• Wheat flour-1cup
• Salt to taste
• Water as needed to make the dough

For the Stuffing / Masala

This can be prepared in two types for stuffing the pooris.

1. Mix Cuminseeds,salt,lemonjuice,Besan/Gram flour,Ginger/Garlic paste,redchillipowder,finely chopped coriander and form in to a smooth dough using water and keep it aside by covering it.
2. Made with the following Ingredients.

Ingredients:

• Gramflour-1/2 cup
• Greenchillies-3-4 finely chopped
• Onion-1 cup finely chopped
• Salt to taste
• Redchillipowder-1 1/2 tsp
• Garammasala-1tsp
• Turmeric powder-1/2tsp
• Hing-2 pinches
• Cuminseeds-1/2tsp
• Ginger-1 '' grated
• Coriander-1 tbsp finely chopped
• Oil  for deep frying pooris or to cook poori on Tava

Method:

1. Heat a pan,add 1tbsp of oil,add cumin seeds.When it starts to crackle ,add green chillies,ginger and hing cook for sometime.
2. Add onions,and fry till they are translucent.Add chillipowder,garammasala,turmeric powder,,Hing & mix well.
3. Then add gram flour,and fry it till the raw smell of the flour is gone and cooked.
4. Add chopped coriander leaves and salt to taste and turn off the flame & keep it aside.
5. Let this mixture get cooled ,otherwise it will be a problem with rolling the pooris with fiulling inside.

Making the dough & Pooris

• Knead the wheat flour with water and salt to taste with water and keep it aside and let it sit for 15 minutes before rolling.
• Roll out the dough in 4cm diameter .Place 1tbsp of stuffing mixture or a lemon ball size dough from the above stuffing types of variety.
• Cover the edges .
• Roll it on the rolling board with the rolling pin or you can grease a big  polythene cover with oil and cover the reamaining polythene cover and roll it inorder not break the dough open.
• Make the rest of the pooris with the stuffing.
• Now heat a tava ,and place the poori and cook it on both sides by applying ghee or oil.Or else heat oil in apan for deep frying.

Pappu Charu ~ Toor dal Rasam ~ Pappu Pulusu

This is a Lentil soup prepared with variety of vegetables with Mashed Toor dal & Tamarind Extract & it is a Mild Sambar with out Sambar powder.It is very tasty & makes everyone mouth watering.I like this very much prepared from one of my aunty "Mani" at Vijayawada.I came to know this item when I am studying Third standard ,even  I didn't like to eat when I mom Prepared for me,I used to like always my Mani Aunty pappu charu.I love her Pappu Charu forever.Today ,I tried for my boy & hubby.They liked it very much and posting it for all of you.

Ingredients:

• Kandipappu/Toor dal-1 cup
• Tamarind- 1 big lemon size (Soak in 2 cups of water & extract the pulp)
• Turmeric powder- a pinch
• Sugar-1tbsp (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Any variety of Vegatables of your choice can be taken and cut in to pieces.(Like Brinjal,Drumstick,potato,Sweet potato,Okra/Ladies fingers,Egg plant,Tomato etc)
• Onions-2 (Cut lengthwise)
• Greenchillies-4no (slit lengthwise)
• Tomato-1 no
• Oil-1tbsp ( this is optional ,Used to saute the veggies in a sauce pan)

For Seasoning:

• Oil-2tbsp
• Mustard seeds-1tsp
• Cumin seeds-tsp
• Curryleaves-2 sprigs
• Garlic -3 cloves (Cut in to small pieces or crush them)
• Red chillies-4no
• Chopped coriander leaves for garnishing

Method:

• Clean the dal and pressure cook with 2 cups of water for 3-4 whistles and mash it smooth with the back of the laddle or use a blender / Mixy jar.Set this aside.
• In a separate sauce pan ,add 1 cup of water and cook all the chopped vegetables,Curryleaves  and cook  them on medium heat till they turn soft.Or you can saute them well using 1 tbsp of oil;later add  1 cup of water.
• Now add the mashed dal,Tamarind juice ,Salt,Sugar ,turmeric powder and allow to boil in low flame for 15 minutes.Check the taste & adjust tamarind juice ,salt according to taste while cooking.
• Now take a hard bottomed pan for the seasoning,add oil & heat it.Add crushed garlic,mustard seeds,cumin seeds,red chilies,curry leaves and Hing,allow to splutter.Add this seasoning to Pappu charu.
• Allow to cook for 3 minutes & garnish with the Coriander leaves.
• Tasty ...Tasty Pappu Charu is ready to eat & enjoy  with hot rice with any fry or Chutney as a side dish.

Variation:

• You can cook or make the seasoning with Ghee for kids.
• Try the taste Sprinkling  the Lemon Juice while serving

Amritha Paali

This is a variety sweet item poori made using Maida flour and dipped in the Milk.Its preparing is very simple & easy.Kids can also like its taste well.So ,this sweet is being posted for all of you to try & taste.

Ingredients:

• Maida-1 cup
• Milk-500ml
• Sugar-1/2 cup ( or add more for sweetness)
• Elachi powder- a pinch
• Raisins & Cashews - few roasted in ghee
• Ghee-1/2 tbsp
• Water- to make dough

Method:

• Take a bowl,mix the flour by adding ghee & sufficient water and make a smooth dough.
• In a vessel ,bring the milk to boil and add sugar ,Elachi powder and mix well and bring to boil once again till the milk gets thickness & turn off the flame.
• Now take a medium size ball from the dough and prepare the Poori having little bit thick,with  a rolling pin ,spreading the flour on the sides if needed to make a circular shape.
• Heat oil in a deep pan for frying and dip the poori's and fry till golden color.
• Drain the excess oil with a paper towel and dip this in to a boiled milk & Let it soak for 10 minutes.
• Serve the poori by taking it in to a plate & garnish with roasted raisins, nuts  & a pinch of Elachi powder.
• Tasty Sweet is ready!!

Coconut Maida balls

This sweet item can be prepared easily for any Festivals ,Occassions etc.It can also be offered as a "Naivedyam" to God .Sometimes,we can also taste this recipe for our friends or unexpected guests as a snack item too.So,friends this can be served as of your  own choice & here goes the recipe.

Ingredients:

For Stuffing

• Fresh grated coconut-2 cups
• Grated Jaggery-1 1/2 cup
• Elachi Powder-1tsp
• Ghee-1tsp
• Cashews & raisins-few

For the Batter

• Maida-1cup
• Rice powder/Rice flour-2tbsp
• Sodium bicarbonate-a pinch
• Salt-1/2tsp
• Oil for deep fry

Method:

1. Take a thick bottomed pan & heat it with 1tsp of ghee.Fry the grated coconut in a lowflame for 3-4 minutes.
2. Now add the grated Jaggery to this fried coconut ,let the jaggery  melt & cook until the mixture becomes thick.
3. Add Elachi powder & dry fruits ,Mix well and Let it cool.
4. Make a small lemon size balls and keep it aside.
5. Take a bowl,add maida,salt,rice powder and sodium bicarbonate,now make a smooth batter adding sufficient water.
6. Now heat oil in a pan ,dip coconut balls in the batter and drop in the oil with a spoon.
7. Fry until golden brown in a medium flame .Drain & Serve hot .
8. Yummy...Yummy Coconut Maida balls are ready to eat!! ......Enjoy..........

Note:

• You can store for 2 days.
• Coconut balls which are made for the stuffing can be stored for One week ,called as "Kobbari Undalu".

Share your Valuable comment about this recipe & Let to know others,If you have liked or tried with any other Variation.

Karthik Purnima ~ Kartika Poornima

Source adapted from Various Internet Resource & the Images are from Google.

Kartik Purnima or Kartika Poornima, also known as Tripuri Poornima or Tripurari Punrima, is the Full Moon and auspicious day in Kartik month. Kartik Purnima 2010 date is November 21.During Kartik Purnima, Dev Diwali, Deepotsavam and Ganga Mahotsav are observed. In Andhra Pradesh and some parts of Karnataka, ‘Shiva Linga Mahajala Abhishekam’ is observed on the day. Bhakteshwara Vratam is also performed on Kartika Pournami in some places of Andhra Pradesh.

Karthik Poornima Festival 

 The whole month of Kartik is considered sacred however it is the last day that is celebrated as Kartika Purnima as it coincides with a full moon.  Kartika Purnima celebrates the power of Lord Shiva.  It is believed that Lord Shiva killed the demon Tripusara on this day and therefore Shiva Temples are crowded with devotees to celebrate the event. Kartika Purnima also coincides with the Jain light festival. Kartika (October / November) is considered to be the holiest month of the Hindu calendar. Kartika Purnima is the last day of the Hindu month of Kartik and coincides with the full moon day. It follows the last 5 days of celebrations which are collectively called Panchaka. The day of Kartika Purnima also heralds the festival of Dev Diwali.

Hindus, Sikhs and Muslims all consider the day of Kartik Purnima to be auspicious. Sikhs offer special prayers to honour the founder of their religion, Guru Nanak. Muslims pay homage to the departed souls and pray for the well being of their near and dear ones.

It is believed that annually on the day of Kartik purnima, the gods descend on earth and reside in the sacred rivers. Ganges and other sacred rivers have elaborate ceremonies on this day. Devotees who bathe in the sacred rivers on these days can also get rid of their negative poisons and receive the blessings from all the Gods of the India.

When Lord Ganesh was designated as Pratham Pujya (the first diety to be worshiped) His younger brother Kartikeaya questioned his role as it would then be for the rest of creation.It was determined then ,that a month in the year will be dedicated to Kartikeaya and this month will be called Kartik. All worship done in this month will contribute to the spiritual upliftment of the individual concerned.

 Kartik month is very significant for Hindus. It is considered as the holiest month of the year. In that the day of poornima has special significance and is considered as the most important day of the month. Thus it is celebrated with the spirit of Diwali. Several festivities are observed on this day: Guru Nanaka Jayanti, Tulsi vivah, Jain light festival, Ganga mahotsava and Dev deepavali.

Kartik Purnima Legends / History   

Kartik purnima has several legends connected to it. This day is also called as Tripurari purnima as this was the day when demon Tripurasura was killed by Lord Shiva. Demon Tripurasura gained great powers by Lord Brahma and started harassing everyone around. Seeing this havoc all demigods approached Lord Shiva and prayed for protected. Lord Shiva being very compassionate went to Tripurasura and fought for several years. Finally Lord Shiva was successful in killing the demon on the day of Kartik purnima.

Legend of Tripuri

Tripuri, a demon, did severe penance for many years in the sacred city of Prayag. Pleased with his dedication Lord Brahma granted him a boon. Tripuri asked that no God, human being, nishachav (evil spirit), women or disease should be able to kill him. Lord Brahma accepted his wish and Tripuri got the power to ruler over the three cities (puri) of Gold (heaven), Silver (earth) and Iron ( **** ). But as Tripuri became powerful he started tormenting his subjects and harassing the Gods. The Gods requested Lord Shiva to help them. Lord Shiva burnt all the three puri’s or cities and killed Tripuri. Therefore Kartika Purnima is also called Tripuri Purnima when all the Gods and people on earth express their joy by illuminating their homes.

Legend of Tarakasur or Taraka

Tarakasur was a demon who had three demon sons- Tarakah, Kamalaksh and Vidyutmali. Mayasur was the renowned architect of the demons who constructed three regions and gave one to each of Tarakasur’s sons. He advised them not to cross the paths of Gods or disrespect them.

All three of them performed severe penance which pleased Lord Brahma who granted them a boon that they would live for a thousand years in three invincible moving cities called Tripuri and could be destroyed by only one arrow that would merge the three cities into one and set them on fire.  The cities were made of gold, silver and iron. The three brothers started harassing the Gods. Also the three moving cities never stayed in one place long enough to be destroyed together.

The Gods then approached Lord Shiva requesting him to destroy the cities. He seeked the help of other Gods and his army of Ganas. He danced the “Tandava”, the dance of destruction, that rocked the three cities. He shot an arrow piercing through the three cities at one time and the fire from his third eye burnt the three cities.

The killing of the three demons spread happiness around the world. This form of Shiva is called “Tripuraari or Tripurantaka”.

 Another legend says that on this day Lord Vishnu incarnated as Matsya avatar to protect Manu, the first man of human kind, from Maha pralay or deluge. Thus devotees of Vishnu take this as a special day to worship Lord Vishnu.

Traditions And Celebrations

During the last five days of Kartika Purnima, also known as “Panchaka”, women take a purification bath each morning and draw beautiful flower designs in their homes. Fasting is commonly observed on these days. Shiva temples are visited on these days.

Devotees also try to bathe in the sacred rivers including River Ganges to get rid of their negativity and receive blessings from the Gods. This ritual follows the belief that on this day the Gods descend on earth and reside in the sacred rivers.

In Kashi Vishwanath temple at Varanasi, Rameshwaram temple, Arunachaleshwara temple at Thiruvannamalai, Manjunatha temple at Dharmasthala, Srisailam Mallikarjuna swamy temple, Vemulawada Rajarajeshwara swamy temple, Keesaragutta Ramalingeshwara swamy temple and Kaleshwaram Shiva temple and all other famous Shiva temples, Kartika Pournami is observed with much gusto.

During Kartik Purnima, Pushkar Mela, the largest cattle fair in the world, is organized in Pushkar town in Rajasthan. Kapal Mochan Mela is another biggest mela celebrated during Kartik Purnima. In Andhra Pradesh, Anantagiri Jathara is celebrated during Kartik Purnima at Ananthagiri Anantha Padmanabha Swamy temple

Pushkar, in Rajasthan is visited all year around by devotees for a dip in its holy lake. But it is believed that bathing in the lakes during Kartika Purnima relieves devotees of all their sins and frees them from the bonds of Samsara.

In the city of Cuttack, Orissa and a few some other towns, huge images of "Kartikeswar" are built and worshipped during Kartika Purnima. At night they are taken out in procession and are immersed in the Mahanadi River, near a Shiva temple.


Festival Fun 

 Food / Recipes

During the month associated with Kartika Purnima, Hindus refrain from eating any non - vegetarian food. Naivedyam, or flattened rice and coconut scrapings,many sweet dishes is offered to the gods and then served as prasad to the devotees. During the five days food is consumed only once in the afternoon and is called as “Habisha”

 Music / Dance

Kirtans or chanting prayers and hymns in groups and the loud beating of instruments like Mrudanga and cymbals continues throughout the day.

Kartik Purnima Celebrations

This day is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion. Many Hindus observe fast on this day and make a point to take a holy dip in the sacred rivers. It is celebrated in a special manner in Thiruvannamalai. Lord Shiva asks Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu to find out the exact location of his head and his feet. Since Lord Shiva takes a gigantic form, they are not able to find out anywhere. Then Lord Shiva takes the form of a jyothi (light of fire) on the hill of Thiruvannamali. Therefore, this festival is also known as Annamalai Deepam. Here, a special torch is lighted on the zenith of the hill and it is believed that Lord Shiva's jothi will be visible on this day.

Lord Muruga took the form of six babies in a lake called "Saravana Poigai". On this day, all his six forms were united by Parvathi(his mother) and this way, he had six faces. Special poojas are performed to Lord Muruga. 

Tulsi devi is worshiped with great reverence. Watering, planting and worshipping Tulsi devi has special significance. Some even perform the sacred ritual of Tulsi vivah on this day. As this day is also celebrated as Dev deepavali or Choti diwali, diyas are lit in the night. Chanting of Holy names of Lord Vishnu is considered very auspicious on this day. Special dishes are made on this day which people share with friends. The moonlit night of Kartik purnima makes the day unforgettable for everyone.

In some houses, they double the number of lamps every day from the day of Deepavali and this way, they end up with a number of lamps on the day of Kaarthigai Deepam.

On this day, people clean the houses. In the evening, they draw kolams (rangoli) in the front of the house and also place some lamps on it. The lamps are placed in the pooja and lighted. Then the Deeparathana is done in which the lamps are moved to different places in the house. The lamps glow all over the streets on this day.The lamps are arranged near the doors and windows and also in the balconies. In this way, people of South celebrate Kaarthika Deepam for three days.

Significance

Kartika Purnima also celebrates the coming of Vishnu Matsya or the fish incarnation in order to save Manu, the first man from the primeval flood which destroyed the universe. Manu saved all species of animals, birds and insects so that they could flourish and grow.

 To celebrate this day we can also cleanse our inner selves. To bathe our mind in the spiritual waters even if we do not live near sacred rivers. Allow the spiritual light to burn away all the questionable traits within. It is not the show of cleaning the outer selves but to rid of our mind and life of its wrong qualities like fear, greed, envy, anger, arrogance and wrong desires and replacing those with forces of love, compassion, generosity, kindness, and light.

During this time, we should take light meals, baths at sea,rivers or ponds and devote ourselves to prayer. These are the reasons why we eat Satwic (healthy non-meat) light food, and bathe in water that flows naturally for healthy growth and spiritual grace.

                    

                   Happy Karthik Purnima Wishes to all of My Readers ,Family Members ,Friends !!!

Note: 

• Click here  here here .
• Lingashtakam

Rasapaalika ~ Milk Idli

This recipe is very easy & simple cooking process and it was known to me from "Aaha Emi Ruchi" telecasted in Gemini T.V (Telugu T.V. Channel),showed the preparation by the Women from West Godavari District ,India.When I get time ,once my Kid goes to school,I used to do my housework along by seeing or Listening to the programs in the Channels.I was getting more interest now to know variety recipes for not only to try and taste,also to share in My Cooking Blog.I liked  this recipe when it was shown in the Channel and soon sharing this  recipe for you all without any delay.

Ingredients:

• Milk-2cups
• Sooji/Bombay ravva-1cup
• Wheat flour/Atta/Godhumapindi-1cup
• Sugar-1/2 cup
• Elachipowder-a pinch
• Cashews & Almonds-few
• Ghee-1tbsp
• Water-as required to make batter

Apparatus:

• Idli stand /Idli plates
• Cooker or any big vessel to insert the Idli stand

Method:

• Boil the milk and keep it aside.
• Mix Wheatflour,Sooji,Sugar,Elachi powder with water in a bowl using hands to form like a Idli batter Consistency.
• Now take the Idli plates,apply ghee to the moulds and pour this mixture in to it with a laddle.
• Sprinkle some cashews & almonds on the top of this mixture.
• Take a Vessel or Idli cooker, pour some water,and place the Idli stand filled with batter.
• Allow to cook for few minutes ,till the pressure comes.(Do not place whistle on the top of the lid ,if  pressure cooker is using)
• Once it is done ,remove these cooked Idli and dip this to the hot boiled milk and let it be for 5minutes ,in order to absorb some milk.
• Serve this by taking in to a bowl by sprinkling with few nuts & Elachi powder.

Idea:

• You can also add fresh grated coconut while making the batter.
• You can also serve it by keeping chilled.

Note:

• This sweet recipe can be made as a variety of  "Naivedyam " to God.

Children's Day

On November 14th , in India and many parts ,the day is very important for the Children & is Celebrated as "Children's Day" on the basis of Jawaharlal Nehru's Birthday and he is well known us all as  "Cha Cha Nehru".This day pays tribute to Nehru's love & passion for children.

This days marks as a very important to every Children and each & every child enjoys their roles in different activities like singing,dancing,painting ,Elocution competitions etc according to their age level.I have passed my child-hood days & Celebrations at my Education during this day.Now It was the time of My kid to know about all the festivals and celebrations .As we are Living in the Torrance (C.A) ,my boy does not know any National Festivals & Celebrations being done at India.So to know him about all the Important days ,I am trying my best and explaining the Importance & the History  based on my past Knowledge at the time of my School & College Education & How I participated in School Programs .I am feeling happy with my Kid for this Children's Day because While I am telling the story about "Pt.Jawaharlal Nehru " and the Tradition of Children for this day,he immediately asked me to dress himself as a "Nehru" when he saw the School children dressed Like Nehru.Really Felt great for his thought.I dressed him like "Chacha " & I always like  to follow Indian Tradition  & National Festivals from my  child-hood & many doubts have being asked to my Mother to explain.Again with my 3yrs boy ,I am enjoying these days by remembering & sharing with him and with all of You.So ,here goes my Cute Boy photos on Children's Day.

I'm  a Little Chacha



Jaihind



Think for Peace

Bye ...Bye

Sooji Halwa

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO CHA CHA NEHRU

Today is very important day & Festival to every children & is  celebrated as Children's Day in India ,on the basis of Jawaharlal Nehru's Birthday.The festival is marked on a national level to pay tribute to Nehru’s love and passion for children. He was known as Chacha Nehru out of respect and admiration.Jawaharlal Nehru was always very concerned for children, loved them a lot and contributed immensely towards the development.As everyone knows "Today's Children are tomorrows Citizens".

Like every children ,I too enjoyed my child-hood days during this festival & My Mother used to encourage to participate in each and every programs and activities conducted in the school and I felt very happy when I received Prizes both in School level & College level.Past days are sweet & Good memories for me to share at any Moment of Life.Today being a Mother to my Child,I came to know and explain the importance of this day to my son using the knowledge on my past experince came to known by my Teachers & Sir's from my school .I really enjoyed in participating the activities & had a desire towards my son also to have interest & Participate like me.So,Living in U.S,No celebrations done here for this day.I dressed my boy as a "Chacha Nehru" & presented him a small gift of Color Pencils ,as he likes so much for his Coloring.A part from ,prepared a "Sooji Halwa". As everyone like kids ,I too like & love the kids,So I distributed sweets in Maricopa Pre-School children, to where my boys goes.

Look in the eyes of children, they are so innocent. A child’s eyes can never speak untruth. Parents forget about their worries and stress when they look at the sweet smiles of their little ones. Children are like god’s gift. In fact there is not any other wonderful experience than having child and being mother. Celebrate this children’s day with little ones and be a kid with them.

Here goes the Method of Sooji Halwa and posting it for the Children's Day special.

Ingredients:

• Sooji /Bombay Ravva /Semolina flour- 1/2 cup
• Sugar-1/3 cup
• Water-1 1/2 cup
• Ghee /Clear butter- 1/4 cup
• Elachi powder-pinch
• Nuts & Raisins ( roasted in ghee for garnishing)

Method:

1. Boil the water with water & Elachi powder in a pan over low medium heat & cover it by keeping a side.
2. Melt the butter in a frying pan on medium heat.
3. Add Sooji and roast to golden brown color ; stirring constantly this will take about for 5 - 8 minutes and will have  a light sweet aroma.
4. Add the sugar syrup slowly ,as you add the syrup to sooji water will splatter.
5. Turn down the heat to medium low and let it cook for 2-3 minutes.
6. Sooji will  absorb the water , as the halwa cools ,it will be little more softer.
7. Garnish with Nuts & Raisins and serve it either hot or cool.

Serving Suggestion:

• For breakfast serve with Aloo poori.
• Serve hot for best taste,If you like garnish with shredded coconut ,almonds,cashews or shaved pistachio.

Variations:

• Instead of water add 1 cup milk,1/2 cup water and this keeps Halwa a little thicker.
• Pour Halwa on a plate greased with Ghee ,keep it about 1/2 inch thick.
• Garnish with any Nuts or Raisins of your choice and let it cool for about half an hour.
• Cut the Halwa in Square or Diamonds shapes like Burfee.

             Like to share your Recipes & Comments about this recipe to divya.chevuri2009@gmail.com

Children's Day

                         

                            " HAPPY CHILDREN'S DAY "

 Children's Day is marked with numerous festivities for all kids for all kids all over India.Children's Day is to celebrate "childhood". On Children’s Day tribute is payed to all children in the world. Children are loved by one and all. They win over our hearts with their angelic eyes and innocent smiles. It makes one realise that may be that’s the way God wanted us to be.Children are the hands by which we take hold of Heaven & We can't fashion our children after our desires ,we must have them and love them as God has given them to us.

So ,I am posting about the Information gathered from Various Internet resources about Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru & Children's Day.

Nehru's Life:



Pt.Jawaharlal Nehru

India's first prime minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, was born on 14th November, 1889 to Motilal Nehru and his wife Swaroop Rani. From the beginning he was an exceptional child and brilliant child. After the early education his father sent him foreign to pursue higher education. Nehru completed his higher education in England at Harrow and Trinity College, Cambridge University. He completed his M.A. from Cambridge University, England. After his returned to India, Nehru practiced law before joining into politics.

After quitting the legal profession, he joined the Congress and Gandhiji in the Freedom Struggle of India. He was an extremely outspoken, honest, practical and courageous politician. And when India gained its independence, he was unanimously selected by the Congress to lead the country as first Prime Minister of the independent India.Pt. Nehru was not only a great leader, statesman but also a great philosopher and think-tact of all time. He perfectly blended the western scientific thinking with eastern philosophical values.He was also a great poet and writer of his own. His famous works are ‘Glimpses of World History’ and ‘Discovery of India’.

His letters to his daughter, Indira Priyadarshini from the jail reflects his philosophical outlook, and his compassion to children.He was fondly referred as Chacha Nehru by the children. He was also fond of both children and roses.He started to wear a rose on his jacket after a child pinned one rose on his jacket. He often stated that children were like the flowers in a garden and they should be carefully nurtured. He said the children’s are the future and foundation of a nation. Every one should keep a careful eye for their development and upheaval.

For him children’s were little adults in the making. Nehru’s empathy toward children is well-known, he once said, “Our one goal, our bounden duty, is to gift the future of India - our children - a country filled with peace and tranquility.”

After his death in 1963, his birthday has been celebrated as children's Day in India.Children's Day is not just a day to let the future generation have its say. It is a day to remember a leader who, in his quiet but determined way, laid the foundation to convert a nascent nation into a world power.

But why Children's Day? Apart from being known for his skills as a statesman, Nehru was also immensely fond of children. The more popular and famous of Nehru's pictures show him with children.

In all the photographs Nehru's joy at being with children is apparent. When he is not sharing pleasantries with them, the expression of intense concentration as he listens to them reveals his commitment and attitude to children. Children to Nehru were little adults in the making.Nehru, to children, is never the Indian political leader and prime minister. He is always Chacha Nehru - Nehru Uncle.

Children's Day is celebrated all over India, especially at the school level. There are also community activities with stress on children's involvement.

The story also goes that he started to wear a rose on his jacket after a child pinned one on it.The national children's centre, Jawahar Bal Bhavan, is also named after Jawaharlal Nehru. Children's Day is literally that. It is the day when children all over the country are pampered with goodies. From the schoolchild's point of view, the best thing perhaps is that it is a special day at school - they need not wear uniforms and are given sweets.           

Nehru’s Contribution To Society

The modern civilization’s development that we all boast off toDay is somewhere the gift and blessing of Pundit Jawaharlal Nehru. Pundit Nehru was a perfect blend of eastern values and western thinking.His life and works have influenced our way of thinking, social structures and all round development. Pundit Nehru always encouraged technological development of India.He as a human being was very soft at heart person. Apart from being a great educationist, he was also a great poet and writer. His letters to his daughter Indira, has been compiled in a book which truly is a showcase of his philosophical outlook.

Some of the most famous works of Pundit Nehru include 'Glimpses of World History' and 'Discovery of India’.

One can clearly say that modern society is a blessing of Pundit Jawaharlal Nehru, his aims, his teachings, his messages and his contribution whose fruits are still sweetening the development if India.

History Of Children's Day:

Children’s Day is celebrated on different dates in different countries across the world. While International Children’s Day is observed on June 1st, Universal Children’s Day is marked on 20th November. These dates too vary from nation to nation. The first International Children’s Day was observed by Turkey in 1920 and then by Switzerland in 1925. Universal Children’s Day has a similar history to narrate. The idea was first laid by V.K. Krishna Menon, which was later adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1954. Until 1959, this day was observed in the month of October after which it was changed to 20th November. As far as India is concerned, Children’s Day is commemorated on 14th November, as it marks the birth anniversary of Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru. Read on to know the origin and background of Children’s Day in India.

Origin Of Children’s Day

20th November marks the anniversary of the “Declaration of the Rights of the Child” that was adopted by the UN General Assembly in 1959. Furthermore, in 1989, on the same day, the Convention on the Rights of the child was signed. The main motive behind this convention was to promote child welfare and communal exchange between them all over the world. In India, Children’s Day was first celebrated in 1964 after Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru’s death. Nehru’s birth anniversary is commemorated as Children’s Day on 14th November every year.

Nehru was extremely fond of children and considered them to be the nation’s future. Nehru also played a significant role in the long freedom struggle to get India independent. Moreover, Nehru became India’s first Prime Minister after India achieved its independence. Hence, 14th November is not only commemorated as Children’s day, it also pays a tribute to the great and eminent politician and leader who fought for India’s independence. The occasion is marked by various cultural programs and events organized by schools and educational institutions across India.

The occasion is celebrated throughout India with immense fun, fervor and enthusiasm. Students are encouraged to participate in various activities, such as singing, dancing, story telling, elocutions, painting, art and crafts, and so on. It gives all the children of India to enjoy the freedom of childhood. Many Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) also organize programs for the poor and deprived children. These days, a number of special programs are aired on the television and radio for kids.

Children's Day in India:

Children’s Day in India surrounds the celebration of childhood. The day is celebrated on 14th November across the nation to commemorate the birth anniversary of India’s first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. Though the Universal Children’s Day is celebrated on 20th November, the date has been pre-poned in India since Nehru was very fond of children. The festival is marked on a national level to pay tribute to Nehru’s love and passion for children. He was known as Chacha Nehru out of respect and admiration.

Born on 14th November, Nehru grew up to become a lawyer. However, he left his profession and joined Gandhiji in the freedom struggle of India. Eventually, he turned out to be brilliant, outspoken, practical and illustrious politician. On attaining independence from the British in 1947, Nehru became the first Prime Minister of the nation. His dedication and passion for the country is remembered on this day. Nehru had great love for roses and children. He often compared the two, stating that children are like buds in a garden. He regarded children to be the future of the nation and citizens of tomorrow.

Celebration in India:

Due to this love of Nehru towards children, he was bestowed upon with the endearing title of Chacha Nehru. Hence, a tribute is paid to this great personality by celebrating his birth anniversary all over India. A number of cultural programs and activities are organized for the kids by all the schools and educational institutions on this day. Teachers perform various songs and dances for their students. Competitions, such as singing, dancing, fancy dress, field events, elocutions, storytelling, debates and quizzes are organized. Though the schools are open on this day, children, however, do not wear uniforms and don colorful and informal dresses to school.

These days, the electronic media has gone far ahead with airing special programs for children to honor the festival. Different movies are telecasted on the television. Various other programs are aired on the radio as well as radio is fast becoming a large medium of communication medium. Many Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) too organize programs for the deprived children across India. The occasion is marked with great pomp and show. The day serves as a reminder to all Indians about committing to the education and welfare of the children thereby contributing to the progress of the nation - a small step that Nehru had started.

Popular Children’s Day Traditions

Nehru had always considered every child of India to be extra special. He viewed children to be the future custodians of the nation. Hence, providing them with a good family, education and social environment is very essential. Very truly, children should be treated with love and care as they are the foundation and real strength of any country. It was due to this determination and eagerness that Nehru came to be fondly known as Chacha Nehru or Nehru Uncle by the kids out of respect and appreciation. Children’s Day is marked with numerous festivities for all kids all over India.





Kids dressed like Chacha Nehru



Kids get to done their best casual dresses on this day as they are allowed to put the uniforms back at home. Children’s Day is not a holiday in India. In fact, kids love to be at school on this day as fun and excitement is at par. Teachers organize different cultural programs and events for students, wherein they portray themselves as children and enact dances and songs. Different activities and contest are also held for students to participate. The most common of the competitions include singing, dancing, story telling, fancy dress, elocutions, drawing, painting, speeches, the list continues. To add on, winners are highly rewarded.



Dance

Celebrations do not end here. Other festivities include parties, movies, picnics, tours, etc. These too are organized by teachers and parents for their children. All possible efforts are made to let the kids feel special and pampered. Back at school, they are treated with luxurious and delicious food and sweets prepared specially for the occasion. On returning home, parents present gifts to their kids and offer special delicacies. Elder kids take an extra step by meeting friends and planning outings. Children’s Day is all about spreading Nehru’s message of educating every Indian child and taking effective steps for further development.

Significance

Children’s Day is celebrated all over the world on 20th November. In India the basis of Children’s Day is Jawaharlal Nehru’s BirthDay, which is celebrated on 14thNovember. Jawaharlal Nehru was always very concerned for children and loved them a lot and contributed immensely towards their development Nehru's empathy towards children is well-known;he once said "Our one goal,our bounden duty ,is to gift the future of India -our children- a country filled with peace and tranquility". .He was also fond of red roses & started to wear a red rose on his jacket ,often stated that "Children were like the flowers in a garden and they should be carefully nurtured".

The occasion of children’s Day is not only an opportunity to celebrate and enjoy, but it reminds us of the mission and message of Pundit Jawaharlal Nehru. He always wanted children all over the world to grow, prosper, get education and prosper in life.

Children’s Day is celebrated with great pomp and show across India. Different schools and organizations are seen initiating various competitions and awarding outstanding students. There are special offers for kids in Shopping malls, theatres and amusement parks. Parents are seen pampering their kids by fulfilling their wishes for the Day.

Jawaharlal Nehru popularly and fondly remembered as Chacha Nehru, always believed that children decide the future of any country or civilization. If the children of the country are provided with proper foundation and development opportunities, they can uplift the nation towards greater prosperity. On the other hand, failure to feed and educate the children prepares to burry all expectations of any nation.

Therefore, amidst all this pomp and glory, we should not lose sight of Chacha Nehru's real message. That is providing our children with a safe and loving environment to grow as well as giving them ample and equal opportunities through which they can take great strides and contribute to the progress of the nation. This Day serves as a reminder to each and every one of us, to renew our commitment to the welfare of children and teach them to live by their Chacha Nehru's standards and example.

 So,I wish all the Children to Focus on where they want to do,not on what they fear & to teach our children to dream with their eyes open.

Note:

    Readers or Parents may like the following for your Lovely  Children.

• Children's Day Messages
• Quotations on Children's Day
• Ideas for Children's Day Party
• Best Songs on Children's Day & India Patriotic Song
• Children's Day Films & Animated Movies
• Children's Day Games
• Cute Children Video

Chivda / Puffed Rice Masala

It is very simple and easy to prepare & goes well if any unexpected guests arriv eour home.It can be prepared and stored for a long time ,kids can also like it well.This Chat item was came to know for me  from one of my North Indian School (Rajasthani English Medium School,Vijayawada) friend "Pinkey .J.Jain".She regularly used to bring this Chat item in her tiffin box and used to share to all friends in the Class.Her Mom prepares excellently.Days ,I studied in the school with her had this chat item and when we completed our school education &; was entering to the College ,both being Joined in different colleges ,I missed this recipe.But I got the procedure of preparing this item from her Mom,anytime I can taste it from My Mother.Never tried this before in India,simply tasting this item from my Mom.After coming to the U.S,I have been eating when I goes to some of my North Indian Friends home.Again ,I reminded the taste & procedure of my School friend's ; today started doing with little variation.So,friends,here goes the recipe item .

Ingredients:

• Puffed rice/Maramaralu/Murmure- 5-6 cups
• Patla Poha/Atukulu-1/4 cup
• Salt as per taste
• Sugar as per taste (powdered sugar)
• Curryleaves-few
• Hing-1/2 tsp
• Garlic pieces- 1tsp or Garlic paste -1-2 tsp
• Peanuts (roasted)-1/4 cup
• Turmeric-1/2tsp
• Cumin seeds-1tsp
• Mustard seeds-1tsp
• Oil-1/2tbsp for seasoning & for roasting dals,nuts use as needed
• Bengal gram /Senagapappu-2tbsp
• Greenchillies-3 no chopped or Red chillipowder-1tsp

Method:

• Place the Poha in a shallow Microwave safe dish and microwave on HIGH for 2mins & keep it aside or You can also roast for sometime in a pan heating with oil.
• Heat the Sauce pan with oil,add Mustard ,Cumin,Curry leaves .
•  When they starts splutter ,add Ginger pieces or paste,Green chillies,peanuts ,bengalgram and fry for few minutes.
• Add red chillipowder (if greenchillies not using) ,Hing,Turmeric ,salt & turn off the heat.
• Mix Poha & Puffed rice to the Tadka /seasoning .Mix well ,and it takes time to coat the oil all over the Puffed rice.Gently mix it.
• Finally sprinkle powdered sugar & mix it.
• Let it cool completely.Serve on a plate .

Serving Ideas:

• Serve with Bhaji /Pakora or just with mixed sev.
• Try with chopped Onion,Tomatoes, Coriander leaves & Lime Juice.

Note:

• If Puffed rice are soft,then dry roast them on low flame .This will help them to keep crunchy.
• While tempering,keep very flame ,otherwise the masala willburn fast.
• Let it Completely cool and store in an Air-Tight Container.

     Post your Valuable comments & Ideas of other Variation of cooking about this recipe.