Spirit, art and life unfolded

  This periwinkle, outshining all others, stands tall in full bloom, its vibrant flowers and lush green leaves spread wide, basking in the brightness of the day. As the sunlight dances across its petals, the beauty of this delicate flower shines forth, a true delight unmatched by any other.

 Unyielding melody Not finding life easy, Not yielding to currents, Several adjustments and few compromises, Spirit remains strong, unmoved despite turbulence. Vagaries, oddities, singularities, Beethoven or Tyagaraja, I tune to what I understand, And my trained ears, Blurred images and slur in conversations. Still, it is not empty or umpty dumty."

  A delicate Purple Heart nestles among the lush green foliage of Nandhanam, like a newborn swaddled in tender wraps. Just inches away, bright yellow blooms proclaim their vibrant presence, each one declaring its unique charm, though small in stature. And then, I chanced upon another Purple Heart, nestled in a discarded tire, surrounded by even more radiant blooms. Glory be to nature's resilience and beauty!

 

  Ruellia, also known as wild petunias, are plants with long, grass-like leaves and beautiful flowers, which can be pink among other colors. Today, they made a dramatic appearance in the garden and brought a feeling of celebration. It's as if each day they tune a new song, reminding us that every day can be a celebration if we choose the right tune.

  This irregular pebble painting showcases a face with expressive red eyebrows and eyes, and a unique "P" as the mouth, symbolizing both pain and pleasure on its rugged surface. Created to stir contemplation, it represents the concept of one human with many faces.

 Harmony's Embrace A stunning start to the day, Harvesting berries in abundance. Mesmerised by a new singer's performance, Stumbled upon Swami Vivekananda's perspectives on Krishna, never seen by me in that light. Practicing flute, preparing songs for the concert, Immersed in the beauty of each note. Embracing divine feelings, Awash in the intensity of spiritual fervour. Untainted by the unholy, Immersed in the purity of the day.

Sur niragas ho, rendition overpowering and stunning,   Like many gates opened, water gushing out with full velocity.   Spellbound, for a moment unbound, shackles broken and thrown away,   Some moments are for eternity.   How some performances can hold sway,   Crumbling all your worried thoughts and concerns,   Like a swarm of bees swept by a powerful wind.   Let me breathe in stable equilibrium.

A healthy garden environment with a cluster of ripe and unripe berries hanging from the branch of a Neredu tree (Jamun tree). These berries are dark purple, almost black, indicating ripeness, while a few are still green or reddish, showing they are not fully ripened yet. Very delicious. Many ripe ones fall on the ground and get wasted. The leaves of the tree are large, elongated, and green. The background includes a view of a garden with various plants and a few Mandara flowers (Hibiscus), a dirt ground, and a gate with some houses beyond. I bought the Neredu plant at Kadiyam 6 years back when we were returning from Kakinada after seeing an alliance for my son. The plant grew into a tree and has been giving fruits for the past 3 years, and I am enjoying the fruits. Kannamma is four and a half years old.

Rosette universe, Painted in the surge and flow of youth, All love and play. On the other side, a voice mellowed, Trampled by the iron boots of life, Painted with negativity, brushes full of red and dread. The truth flows quietly somewhere, discounting these two. Life, a roundabout whirling, bringing out different hues and views.

 "All that I own is moon" is a poetic phrase that might evoke imagery of solitude, beauty, and the ethereal. It suggests that the speaker's possessions are not material but instead celestial and timeless, hinting at a sense of wonder or melancholy.

 Thorns of change  Heroine: "Flowers wilted, lifeless, diseased.  Look at the thorns—unafraid of wilting away.  I prefer being a thorn.  This is the woman of today. Recalling times gone by,  when women were seen as soft and gentle, like tender flowers.  How notions and mores have changed! Men were once depicted as chivalrous saviors.  Today, roles are swapping.  In the cauldron of change, everything is adrift.

 The Weight of Small Things Small things make or mar.   A small thought written down well,   A small act of someone misplacing a bottle,   One releases dopamine, the other raises BP levels.   I am not battling with windmills,   I can't take hold of small things; how can I handle those mountains?   Quixotic. Small channels join rivers; where do the oceans flow and join?   There is certainly an unceasing quest built into everything.   These strangers' lips singing familiar tunes.   I am ready, waiting at this station, exhausted, but the train has still not arrived.

Chance brought these diverse plants together, creating an eclectic mix. Swaying in the breeze, they display a charm reminiscent of a liberal dispensation. Their companionship, like the bond mentioned in the Telugu song "Ee Naati Ee Bandham" from Mooga Manasulu, knows no time. Each flower and leaf complements the other, forming a timeless and harmonious connection.

I convinced someone to fetch me some decent roadside stones, which they begrudgingly did after numerous reminders. When they finally delivered them, I was overjoyed. I have a penchant for inscribing inspiring quotes on these stones—like 'hope' in fancy calligraphy on a small, uneven, dark brown one. My grandkid loves these quirky projects of mine. However, when I proudly presented a stone mounted with a heartfelt message to a relative, the entire family responded with absolute silence. It was as if my masterpiece went unnoticed—cue Shakespearean tragedy: 'Love's labour lost'!

 "Veiled Retribution" tells the story of a woman whose outward grace belies a deep-seated desire for vengeance. Betrayed and scarred, she navigates society with charm while secretly plotting to right the wrongs done to her. Her elegant facade veils a relentless determination to achieve justice, ultimately revealing the complexity of her journey toward retribution.

The image depicts a lush garden with various potted plants, centered around a spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) with long, narrow, arching leaves. Surrounding it are plants with large, green, rounded leaves, possibly hibiscus, and a small plant with pink and green variegated leaves. The garden is well-tended, with neatly arranged pots and rich, dark soil. Sunlight filters through the foliage, creating a vibrant, peaceful atmosphere that evokes feelings of tranquility and connection to nature. The diverse, thriving plants contribute to a sense of well-being and harmony.

The flowers are bright red and arranged in small, dense clusters, typical of plants like Ixora or similar species. Each flower has multiple small petals, forming a compact, rounded inflorescence. The leaves of the plant are broad, glossy, and dark green. They are elliptic to oblong in shape and seem to have a smooth texture. Some of the leaves of this plant appear to be in clusters at the tips of the branches, while others are spaced out along the stems. In contrast, there are some dry, brown leaves still attached to the plant, indicating parts of it may be struggling or in a state of transition.

The Asian pigeon wings (Clitoria ternatea) plant showcases a glowing, resplendent blue flower that resembles a bird in flight—beautiful without wings or motion. The flower appears to be a single bloom with a shape resembling that of a butterfly or a pea flower. The plant is situated in a garden with soil visible around it. The leaves are ovate and arranged alternately on the stem. The flower has a white center, adding to its striking appearance. The green leaves, with their distinctive shape, provide a colossal tribute to the plant, enhancing its natural elegance.

Treasure full of pots,   Where ghosts tread, angels dread.   Rumblings of nonsense,   Grumblings of wise counsel.   Sea full of trees,   Forest full of shores,   Deserts screaming, my head is beating.   My heart on a spree of adventure,   No need for dentures,   Sheep have enough pastures. .

In this serene garden, where various plants and flowers thrive without human intervention, the changing conditions bring to mind Sri Lalitha's fiery form, now as Kusumapriya. After the intense heat of summer, the landscape is refreshed by occasional sprinkles of rain, though the monsoon remains timid this year. Amidst this tranquil scene, reminiscent of days gone by when one experienced the wrath of Sri Lalitha, myriad flowers bloom in the verdant surroundings, swayed gently by cool breezes, transforming the atmosphere into that of Kusumapriya's serene presence.

Plants and flowers, including a pomegranate tree with fruits in the flowery stage. A new plant has grown on its own and is showing signs of bearing fruit for the first time. We will know the results only after the fruits ripen. Some pomegranate trees in the compound, although bearing fruits abundantly, are not good for eating, so no one touches them, including neighbour's who have most of the trees leaning into their compound.  I discovered a solution: instead of eating, the juice made from this pomegranate turned out to be unbelievably good. So good both in taste and colour, something I have never known before.  Now, it's the turn of the new plant. What wonders await?

Commotion, commotion, commotion   Echoing in every cell   Like vexatious insects crawling, unrelenting   No permission sought   They dominate, claiming their way   From mind's inception, they seize all of me   Their home found within   This commotion never fades   Slow simmer, sudden wildfire burst   What do they bring, but ashes and lashes

  The carpenter, with an artistic outlook, carved a hand resembling a tree and positioned it on a base. There was no worry about who would pick it up. When you create art without expectation, the best in you comes out, with no need for laurels.

A vertical stone with a fixed broken pot piece, adorned with abstract art, giving the piece a unique identity as a work of art, all set on a wooden base.

I know one thing: that I know nothing, These wise words resonate, dispelling myths, Trampling egos, leavening thoughts, Creating a level playing field. Piles of books and myriad internet sources, Spew unlimited information, Yet knowledge is scarce and wisdom rare. Remembering the legend Tyagaraja, 'Gyana mosaga rada', At the summit of his gnana, he didn't cease to pray.

In the serene garden, vibrant with lush greenery and blooming red hibiscus, I found myself deeply immersed. The iron gate framed this tranquil scene, occasionally offering glimpses of passersby on the path outside. Lost in the soothing melody, the 148th sloka from Lalitha Sahasranamam, "Mahathi merunilaya mandara kusumapriya," softly echoed, evoking ethereal emotions within me. These divine verses celebrated Devi Lalitha's profound love for flowers, stirring a sense of joy and spiritual connection that transcended earthly concerns, harmoniously blending with the vibrant mandara flowers that adorned the morning These flowers spread a shower of joy, filling the morning air with a sense of healing. If only I could compose a song every morning that melts into sight and the feelings in my heart. Nature's largesse makes me feel grateful in complete surrender.

  These Gardenia jasminoides plants are thriving despite their challenging conditions: they grow under the shade of a tree in a broken pot with minimal attention. Their glossy green leaves and delicate, snowy white flowers create a striking contrast, known for their angelic appearance. The perseverance of these plants, continuing to bloom gracefully under less-than-ideal circumstances, underscores their enduring beauty and charm.

A small outdoor garden area with various plants growing in green and orange containers on brown soil, with some scattered small yellow neem fruits or seeds. The prominent plant in the foreground is Ruellia simplex, commonly known as Mexican Petunia. It has elongated, lance-shaped, bright green leaves with a slightly glossy texture, arranged alternately on the stems. The plant features several trumpet-shaped light purple flowers with darker purple centres, blooming in clusters at the ends of the stems, alongside a few buds yet to open. Other plants with different leaf shapes, including an aloe vera plant, can be seen in the background, adding to the lush and untended appearance of the garden.

  The object is a newly crafted piece of driftwood with multiple painted stones placed in its crevices and on top. The driftwood is mounted on a wooden base for stability. Each stone is painted with various colours and designs. This creation is an artistic attempt to combine stones and wood to achieve a unique aesthetic look.

 Why am I non-vegetarian? I saw the chicken I played with being cut in front of me, the last thing I wanted to see in life. Though I hated being a non-vegetarian, I never could fully jettison the habit. Yesterday, I saw during my drive cute-looking rams and goats innocently awaiting their turn to be led to the slaughterhouse to savor the plates of all who relish different varieties of dishes made out of these poor animals. My heart beats for them. Not much difference; the cannibals or savages used to lead humans to a similar fate. The enlightened say that it is the same consciousness that drifts through all beings. Life is such a precious thing, but then why this cruelty, the cries, and the tears? The piety they extend to some animals, why stop there? This dilemma reflects a human reaction. It is not merely ethical, psychological, or spiritual; it embodies our innate emotional response to witnessing suffering and questioning the inconsistency between our values and actions. These refle

In a secluded corner of the garden, a cascade of emerald leaves unfurls gracefully. Each slender leaflet, delicate and precise, weaves a tapestry of green against the earth. The plant’s elegance whispers of nature’s meticulous artistry, where every frond extends outward in a dance of symmetry and light. Amidst the quiet stillness, the leaves sway gently, as if sharing secrets with the breeze, embodying the serene beauty of a lush, verdant haven. This is the ubiquitous curry leaf plant, patiently waiting to garnish and infuse dishes with its aromatic essence.

    A single fallen flower, Allamanda blanchetii, with light purple petals and pinkish hues, rests on a textured, speckled surface with a reddish-brown coloration, likely due to a mix of dirt. The flower fell from a vine growing vertically. The plant, seen climbing up a structure with green trim and a white wall background, has green leaves. Every year, for many years, this plant at the entrance has beautified and filled the hearts of visitors with cheer. The flowers, resembling gramophones with thick petals, always stand on the terrace delightfully.

In February 2021, I painted a depiction coinciding with the swarajati "Rara Venu Gopa Bala" being played on flute. The figure features a blue face, yellow turban, white nose, and a peacock adorning the hair, albeit faded, with garlands around the neck. With closed eyes, the portrayal suggests a tranquil state of mind amidst the flowing melodies of life. Reflecting on Lord Krishna's story, it reveals enduring lessons amidst ceaseless melodies and divine play (leela).

The garden area features several flowering plants, with the prominent one being periwinkles (Catharanthus roseus), commonly known as Madagascar periwinkle, which are lush and swaying in the breeze. The background includes other types of plants and foliage, illustrating how various species can coexist, each contributing its unique narrative. Behind the periwinkles, there is a curry leaves plant, known for its distinctive leaf pattern and fragrance. Additionally, a wax mallow plant, currently without flowers as it has been recently brought from a nursery, is visible. At the bottom, a jasmine tree with its main stem fixed to the wall can be seen, adding to the diversity of the garden.

 By reading a newspaper item on how shorter skirts signal a sound economy, I was driven to contemplate the broader ways in which economic trends are reflected in our daily lives. The economy's bulls and bears are not simply reflected in stock markets but are woven directly into society's greatest possible fabric: our lives. The ups and downs of the economy profoundly influence daily behaviors, decisions, and societal trends, providing a nuanced view of financial health and sentiment beyond traditional metrics. Style-wise, the iconic mini skirt designed by Mary Quant encapsulated "short, sweet, rebellious" and became a classic image of its times. Women's skirt lengths tend to rise during economic booms and fall during recessions, reflecting societal confidence and spending power. Similarly, shorter hairstyles may become popular as people cut back on salon expenses during tough economic times. Consumer habits offer additional insights. A slump in men's underwear

During our evening walk, Gangadhar and I noticed a peacock perched on a tree with its long tail up and head down. This enchanting scene unfolded in Forestrek Park near Chilkur, a quiet and sprawling haven for walkers, even on a hot and humid day. At first glance, the peacock looked very different, almost like a huge black object hanging from the tree. This unusual posture added to the intrigue of the sighting, making the scene even more captivating. Expecting the peacock to fly away, I quickly drew my phone to capture the moment. To my surprise, the peacock alighted from the tree and came a bit closer, allowing me to zoom in and take a magnificent shot. He looked huge, regal, and in command, not scared or unsteady at all. It’s comforting to know that such serene places still exist in our urban landscape. The trek provided a wonderful contrast: on one side, the walk itself, and on the other, the unexpected sighting of a wild peacock.

A collection of potted plants. The central plant, Aralia, is variegated with green and white leaves and is growing in a decorative pot filled with pebbles. Surrounding it are various other plants, including one with broad green leaves and another with striped leaves. There are other pots and plants in the background.

The image depicts vibrant, red hibiscus flowers in full bloom, thriving with multiple buds and blossoms. The hibiscus plant is placed outdoors, near a house entrance. The flowers have five petals each, and their bright red color contrasts beautifully with the surrounding green leaves. The background features a paved area leading to a gated entrance. The hibiscus stands out against a backdrop of various potted plants. The hibiscus has large, bright petals and prominent stamens. The pots behind it contain a mix of succulents and other houseplants, placed on a windowsill with a metal grill behind it.

This painting merges the essence of man and animal, symbolizing a powerful connection between human and animalistic traits. The dark background effectively contrasts with the vibrant reds and yellows, suggesting a sense of emergence and transformation. The use of red and yellow indeed evokes feelings of vibrancy and positivity, adding a dynamic energy to the piece. The large, prominent eyes are particularly striking, possibly representing focus and direction, underscoring a sense of purpose and aim. The abstract style and thick, textured application of paint amplify the emotional impact, making the piece not just a visual experience but an evocative one as well. The interpretation of the figure as a fusion of man and animal coming from darkness could symbolize overcoming challenges or emerging stronger from adversity, resonating deeply with themes of resilience and determination.

The image shows a dense collection of green foliage interspersed with vibrant orange-red flowers of the Royal Poinciana. The Royal Poinciana has fern-like leaves with a feathery appearance. Intermixed with these are glossy, elliptical leaves with a smooth texture, which belong to the Alamanda plant. The Alamanda also has bright yellow, trumpet-shaped flowers that stand out. Both plants appear to be climbing and are supported by a wall, with their branches growing densely together and intermingling.

A flower bed features a variety of plants, primarily showcasing two types of flowering plants.  **Madagascar Periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus)**: This plant has glossy, dark green leaves and small, five-petaled flowers. The flowers are pink with a darker pink center. **Ruellia (Ruellia simplex)**: This plant has narrower, lance-shaped leaves and larger, trumpet-shaped flowers. The flowers are a light purple or lavender color. Additionally, there are other green plants in the background, including what appear to be broad-leaved tropical plants, contributing to the lush greenery of the garden. Some small red flowers or petals are scattered on the ground and among the plants.

The image features a vibrant pink hibiscus flower in the foreground, characterized by its five petals and surrounded by lush green leaves. This hibiscus plant, with a few buds ready to bloom, extends from the patio area up to the windowsill. Behind the hibiscus, a spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) is visible, notable for its long, arching leaves with green and white stripes. The setting is a windowsill garden with several other potted plants, creating a cozy and well-tended green space.

The plant display features an artful wood structure resembling an animal. The main, larger piece of wood forms the body, with a broad, curved base supporting the structure, mimicking the torso. A protruding section at one end resembles a neck and head. Smaller branches represent legs, and extensions mimic a tail or other appendages, enhancing the lifelike quality. Plants are integrated into the wood structure: a Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) with long, arching green leaves with white stripes; a broad green-leaved plant positioned to the left; a Syngonium with lighter green, arrowhead-shaped leaves; a succulent (potentially Kalanchoe) with thick, fleshy leaves towards the bottom center; and cacti or succulents with cylindrical stems in the background. The natural contours of the wood create multiple levels and niches for a tiered plant arrangement. The wood provides stable support for the pots, ensuring they stay in place, with some plants on flat surfaces and others n

   As a mountain goat, I'm alert and observant amidst the misty valleys, with my cousins nowhere in sight. Am I lost? How can I find another of my kind nearby? The hills are beautiful, deep, and inviting, with plenty for me to explore.