Newsletter of Bal Sabha of Columbia, MO January 2000 Issue Volume 3, Issue 1 who train canopied oxen to dance, perform in the streets. Another attraction in this state is Bommala koluvu, where many clay EDITOR’S NOTE and wooden figurine along with other dolls are arranged artistically. Friends and Welcome to the very first Bal Sandesh Middle School. neighbors are invited to see them. issue of the new millennium. This issue is The editorial staff has been discussing The third day is Kanuma. In Tamil Nadu as usual, a colorful mixture of great minds innovative ways to encourage youngsters this day is called Mattu Pongal. The at work. It includes articles about Indian to cultivate their creative skills and are in agrarian community that thankfully Architecture, Goddess Saraswati, the process of developing contest(s). acknowledges the participation of animals Sankranti festival, and many puzzling Winning entries from these competitions like bulls in ploughing the fields celebrates riddles, amongst other fascinating articles. may be featured in the next issue of Bal it. Bull fights and cockfights are a common We have invited two articles from adult Sandesh. These competitions may feature sight in villages. This day is dedicated to supporters that we felt would be of interest essay writing and/or art work. Guidelines the worship and respect of cattle. The to our readership. This issue includes and competition details will be announced horns of the cattle are decorated with articles on Women in Science and shortly at a future Bal Sabha meeting (and kumkum and turmeric. Pongal is offered to Engineering by Prof. Meera through electronic mailings). the cattle to eat. The same is done on the Chandrasekhar; and on Diabetes by Prof. I hope that you find this issue of Bal following day, which is called Kanya Ramesh Khanna. Sandesh a treat for your literary senses, Pongal or Mukkanuma in Andhra Pradesh. In addition, we would like to convey our and that you enjoy it as much as our In Gujarat, a special sweet for this best wishes to the previous editors of Bal contributors had writing it☯ occasion is made with sesame seeds and Sandesh, and hope to continue the good jaggery. Flying kites is an exciting sport, work started by Tara Chandrasekhar, Greg which is enjoyed by one and all during this Jashnani, and Ansu Satpathy. Our new period. editors are Runjhun Misra, a junior at The Sun enters the Makara raasi (the Hickman High School; Lavanya Palavalli, a Zodiac sign, Capricorn) on Sankranti day junior at Hickman High School; and Runjhun Misra signifying the onset of Uttarayana Vellore Arthi, a seventh-grader at Smithton Junior, Hickman High School punyakala. Traditionally this period is considered an auspicious time. The veteran Bhishma of Mahabharata chose to die during this period. After giving up his Sankranti fight with Arjuna in the battle of Anupama Taduri Kurukshetra, he slept on a bed of arrows till Eighth Grade, West Junior High School this period. It is believed that people who die during this period have no rebirth. It is also during Sankranti that people tell the ankranti is an important harvest story of how Krishna lifted the hill S festival for Andhras, Kannadigas, and Govardhan on his little finger and saved his Tamilians and for people in some parts of fellow mates☯ Northern like Maharashtra and Gujarat. On this occasion the elements of nature such as Sun (source of all energy in the universe), and rain are given all importance. This is a festival based on the solar calendar. During this period, houses are spruced up and cattle are decorated . clothes are worn. Housewives prepare Bal Sabha The festival gaiety lasts for 3 or 4 days. mouth-watering delicacies. of Columbia, Missouri Sankranti is celebrated in a similar The second day is Sankranti; also called fashion all over India. Front yards are Surya Pongal in Tamil Nadu, which is THANK YOU cleaned up and women draw a variety of dedicated to the Sun. On this day, pongal This issue of Bal Sandesh has been made floral patterns ( called muggulu or (rice cooked in milk and jaggery) is offered Rangoli). The first day is called Bogi. It is possible through financial sponsorship from: to the Sun by all South Indians. devoted to Indra, the rain god. People Incidentally, pongal means boiling over. Days Inn/Travelodge wake up early in the morning to set up a People in Karnataka distribute sugarcane Howard Johnson/Panda Pals bon fire, which includes old clothes, and acchu (sugar candy) with sesame India’s Rasoi firewood and agricultural waste. This is seeds. In Andhra, Daasarlu or Haridaasulu Taj Emporium followed by an oil bath after which new (traditional folk singers) and some men 2 Bal Sandesh Tri-Yearly Newsletter of the Bal Sabha of Columbia, MO What are the numbers??? Women in Science and Engineering Meera Chandrasekhar, Ph.D.

generation ago, one could wander the Starting with a total of four million sophomores in 1977 sciences, math and engineering. While A hallways of a department of physics or Total sophomores 2,000,000 2,000,000 the population of the country is increasing, engineering at any major university Female Male and we live in a more technological world, searching for a woman and end up getting H.S. Sophomores 175,000 the number of people who are trained to 730,000 a day’s exercise out of it. Even locating use it and to develop new technologies is the women’s restroom would have been a H.S. Seniors 129,000 590,000 (proportionately) decreasing. This has challenge! About fifteen years ago the created a need in the economy for people College Freshmen 72,000 340,000 American Physical Society, the trained in these areas. The good news for professional society for physicists, Juniors 49,000 214,000 graduates in these areas is that the published a study that found that about starting salaries have increased rapidly. 50% of research departments in physics B.S degrees 46,000 206,000 For example, the average salary offered to did not have a single woman on the a new engineering graduate with a B.S. faculty. The number of departments with Graduate students 11,000 60,000 degree last year was about $45,000. two or more women was 4%. Physics Where do women figure into all this? A M.S. degrees 10,000 46,000 departments were not the only anomaly. generation ago few women worked. That Engineering and computer science Ph.D. degrees 1,900 10,000 fact has changed drastically. Kids in departments were in more or less the school or college right now can pretty same boat. Indeed, the entire area of Fig. 1. Persistence in Natural Science and much expect to work most of their lives, physical sciences and engineering was Engineering, from Science 1993. regardless of gender. The good news is rather barren of women. This scene has that there are many more women in these changed a little, with numbers creeping up that the numbers in Engineering have fields now than in mom’s time. One can very slowly over the past twenty five years. increased from about 36,000 to 63,000 easily locate female scientists or engineers Why is the female population in these after peaking close to 78,000 in 1985, in any industry or female faculty members areas an issue? After all, women work in while the numbers in the physical sciences in a science department. However, other fields, particularly in the biological has remained static at about 15,000. Math chances are that they still form a small and health sciences, and in the social and computer science are at about 38,000 minority in the gender distribution. What sciences. Many of these fields have after peaking at about 59,000 in 1986. In comes through loud and clear is that female populations of at least 50%, and contrast, the number of psychology women have not made deep inroads into sometimes more. Secondly, what are the degrees increased steadily from 17,000 to traditionally male dominated fields such as numbers and why are they what they are? about 74,000. In case you wonder, the the physical sciences, math, computer I am often confronted with the statement total number of B.S. degrees granted in all science and engineering. “There are a lot more women in the fields doubled, from about 520,000 to 1.18 Fig. 3 shows the percentage of women sciences than there were twenty years million. getting B.S. degrees in the same fields as ago – is there still a problem?” In this What does this mean? The most in Fig. 2. The growth for engineering is the article I will attempt to provide some obvious picture is that more people are most dramatic: from a depressing half of statistics to help understand the issue. going to college and getting degrees, but one percent in 1966 to a not terribly happy First, let’s look at a graph that has been not in the same fractions in the physical 18% in 1996. The physical sciences have commonly referred to as the funnel graph more than doubled from 14 to 37%, (Fig. 1). This graph comes from studies of primarily because of increased enrollments a group of four million students who were in chemistry. Math and computer science 300 sophomores in 1977. It followed them are pretty flat – about 33% all the way. over a period of 15 years. Of two million 250 The numbers for master’s and doctoral (each) female and male sophomores, only degree recipients shows that women form Psychology 6.5% of the women took science as high 200 a smaller fraction of a small number. A school seniors, vs. about 30% of the men. whole new pool of workers have come on The funneling had started. This drain in 150 Bio/Agric. Sci line, but they have not taken advantage of the pipeline continued till it reached a the great opportunities in these fields. In number of 0.09% of women in science and 100 Math/Comp. Sci other words, more women are at work, but engineering Ph.D.’s, vs. 0.5% for men – a Physical Sci. they are in Bio/Health or non-technical factor of one woman for every six Ph.Ds. 50 fields. Thus the average salaries for Engineering What do the numbers look like now? B.S. degrees awarded (thousands) women vs. men tends to be lower thanks 0 After all this study concluded nearly eight 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 to the skewing in the areas of expertise. years ago, and the world is a different Year There is a separate issue that is less place than it was in 1992. It is interesting publicized. The approach of women toward science and engineering tends to to get a historical perspective. Fig. 2 Fig. 2. Total B.S. degrees awarded in the shows the total number of B.S. degrees be somewhat different. One of the best U.S. in selected fields between 1966 known examples is that of three awarded in selected science and and 1996, from Science and Engineer- anthropologists, Jane Goodall, Dian engineering disciplines over a thirty year ing Degrees, detailed statistical ta- Fossey and Birute Galdikas, often known period (1966 to 1996). While the total bles, National Science Foundation, as the Trimates. They studied the great number of degrees has increased, we see 1999. apes in Central Africa, and provided Tri-Yearly Newsletter of the Bal Sabha of Columbia, MO Bal Sandesh 3 studies have documented that the decline v Support your child in their participation in interest in the sciences occurs in the in extra curricular science and math middle school years. Furthermore, that activities, be they clubs, summer getting good grades in the sciences does school, summer camp, or after school =20% not create the confidence that one programs. Psychology expects – many girls get good grades, but v Don’t let “I’m not interested in that” get they still think they are not “good” at it. you down. A child who has never This lack of confidence is linked to several seen what chemistry is all about does Bio. / Agric. Sci factors, including the lack of a peer group, not yet know whether she/he is and the fact that many girls do not have interested or not! the life experiences of fiddling with v Do science stuff with your child. Math/Computer Sci mechanical stuff the way boys do. Figure Science is best tried out and done 4 shows the results of one such study. By with one’s hands. Reading about it is Physical Sciences the time girls reach the seventh grade, only half as much fun. There are a lot Engineering only 12% have tried their hand at building of books on science activities for or fixing something mechanical. This children, and it may require trips to a Percent of B.S. degrees awarded to women Year 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 number is in sharp contrast to 46% for bunch of stores to get all the stuff, but Fig. 3. Percentage of B.S. degrees awarded their male peers. By familiarizing girls with a little home lab is fun to work in. to women in selected fields, 1966- the physical sciences at a young age, one v Make a trip to the science center a 1996. Notice the vertical line that can hope to impact the gender gap which time of discovery for everyone – denotes 20%. From Science and distances girls from the physical sciences parents and children. You may come Engineering Degrees, detailed statis- in their teenage years. back with ideas for new home tical tables, National Science Foun- What can one do to keep a young child, activities. dation, 1999. male or female, interested in science? v Involve your children’s friends in little There is quite a lot parents can do, apart science projects. Children work best groundbreaking insights into ape from help with homework. Here are a few with their peers. Perhaps their best societies – all thanks to their women’s ideas (and let me know yours!) friend is one who is not so keen on capacity to empathize with their subjects science. So much the better! You and create new techniques of observation. have a chance to make a convert. None of the male primatologists had been "Have you often tried to fix v Have your child help you with something mechanical?" able to get anywhere as close to the apes 80 mechanical stuff like drilling holes or as the three women did. It is also GIRLS fixing something that is broken documented that the publication styles of BOYS (especially if they are female children).

women tend to be slow but more 60 A girl needs to know how an electric comprehensive. If there are indeed 60 drill operates the same way a boy

gender differences in styles of design, 46 does. research and development, then the loss v Enroll your child in classes that of a segment of the population constitutes 40 require some hands-on shop skills. a lost resource. Futhermore, as the The public schools offer several such structure of the family changes, a industrial arts courses, including at the technically oriented mom may provide a 20 career center and the aerospace different home environment for a child. 12 12 classes. This then constitutes a vital human PERCENT ANSWERING YES resource for the next generation. 0 And finally, if after considerable Not surprisingly, there are no easy 7 11 exposure a child decides that he or she do answers that tell us why women, after a GRADE not want to undertake a career in science generation of awareness and education, Source: National Assessment of Educational Progress or engineering after all – fine, at least you are still in the minority in the sciences and have a scientifically literate person in a engineering. The accepted wisdom is that Fig. 4 Comparison of females and males on non-science field!☯ the die is cast by high school. Various fixing mechanical stuff.

Answers to Body Riddles and Body Riddles Amazing Puzzles

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7. What are the oldest parts of the body? (see the next column for the answers) Riddles Body 4 Bal Sandesh Tri-Yearly Newsletter of the Bal Sabha of Columbia, MO Few Facts about Diabetes Mellitus Ramesh Khanna, M.D.

hat is diabetes? African-American, Hispanic or Asian regular eye exams (once a year) by an W Diabetes is a disease in which the especially of Indian heritage. Pima Indians ophthalmologist to make sure that any eye body is unable to properly use and have extremely high risk of developing problems associated with diabetes are store glucose (a form of sugar). Glucose diabetes. Also, women who develop picked up early, and treated before they piles up in the blood -- causing blood diabetes while pregnant (a condition called become serious. Blindness is a common sugar to go up too high. Insulin is gestational diabetes) are more likely to complication of poorly controlled diabetes. necessary for utilizing glucose in the body. develop full-blown diabetes later in life. People with diabetes must learn how to Insulin is like a key that opens the door for monitor their blood sugar day-to-day at sugar to get inside the cells for energy How is diabetes treated? home using a home blood sugar monitor. production. Sugar is essentially a fuel for Everyone, who has diabetes, whether This daily testing helps with adjusting the our body’s activities. The pancreas Type 1 or Type 2, needs to have a meal meal plan, exercise, insulin and pills. More releases insulin when glucose (eating) plan. They also need to exercise importantly it will allow the person to accumulates in the blood after a heavy regularly, because exercise helps the body maintain blood sugar in the normal range. meal. to use insulin better to convert glucose into There are two major types of diabetes: energy for cells. Everyone with Type 1 What other problems can diabetes In Type 1 (Juvenile-onset or insulin- diabetes, and some with Type 2 diabetes, cause? dependent) diabetes, the body completely need to take insulin injections. Most with A physician will stress the need to follow stops making insulin. People with Type 1 Type 2 diabetes take pills called "oral a meal plan and exercise program, use diabetes must take daily insulin injections hypoglycemic agents", which help their medications as prescribed and monitor to survive. This form of diabetes usually bodies produce more insulin and/or make blood sugars regularly to keep the blood develops in children or young adults, but insulin more effective. Some overweight sugars in as normal a range as possible as can occur at any age. people with Type 2 diabetes can manage much of the time as possible. Why is this In Type 2 (also called adult-onset or non their disease with weight loss, controlled so important? Because poorly managed insulin-dependent) diabetes, the body diet and regular exercise and may not diabetes can lead to a host of long-term produces insulin, but is not very effective. need any insulin or pills. complications -- among them are heart This form of diabetes usually occurs in attacks, strokes, blindness, kidney failure, people who are over 40, overweight, and blood vessel disease that requires an have a family history of diabetes. The amputation, nerve damage, and impotence insulin, which functions like a key is unable in men. But happily, if people keep their to find the lock. Therefore, the glucose blood sugars as close to normal as cannot enter cells for use as energy. possible, they can reduce their risk of developing some of these complications How do people know if they have by 50 percent or more. diabetes? People with untreated diabetes have Can diabetes be prevented? several symptoms. These include: Maybe someday! A study being v excessive thirst conducted at Joslin Diabetes Center and v frequent urination several other sites nationwide is screening v weight loss the immediate relatives of someone with v increased hunger/craving for sugar Type 1 diabetes because they can now v blurry vision identify those who will develop this form of v skin infections the disease as much as five or more years v wounds that don't heal in advance v extreme unexplained fatigue Everyone who has diabetes should be Type 2 diabetes is the most common seen at least once every three to six type of diabetes, and is still poorly Many older people with Type 2 diabetes months by their family physician. They understood. Physicians can advise one on may not have any symptoms for several should also be seen periodically by other steps to mitigate this form of diabetes, years of disease. Such people live for members of a diabetes treatment team, particularly if one belongs to a group that months, even years without knowing they including a diabetes nurse educator, and a is more prone to this disease. For have the disease. This form of diabetes diabetes dietitian educator who helps example; if one belongs to a family which comes on so gradually that symptoms may develop a meal plan that works best for an has several members with diabetes; if one not even be recognized. individual. In difficult situations, such as has had gestational diabetes, or if one is a coexisting heart problems, an exercise member of an ethnic group like African- physiologist can help in developing a Who gets diabetes? Americans, Native Americans, Hispanic- customized exercise plan. A social worker, Anyone can get diabetes. However, Americans, or Asian Indians. A research psychologist and mental health people who have family members with the study is now underway to see if this form professional make up a team of diabetes disease are more likely to develop it. The of diabetes can be prevented as well. care team. They help people deal with the risk of getting diabetes is higher as people Changes in lifestyle, (more exercise and stresses and challenges of living with a grow older. People who are overweight weight loss), and certain medications are chronic disease. and over forty years of age are more likely being tested to see if Type 2 diabetes can Everyone who has diabetes should have to develop diabetes. So are people of be prevented☯ Tri-Yearly Newsletter of the Bal Sabha of Columbia, MO Bal Sandesh 5 Amazing Puzzles Discovering New Worlds Compiled by Sagar Vengurlekar Arjun Khurana Fourth Grade First Grade Ridgeway Elementary School Ridgeway Elementary School

1. How Did They Manage It? Two camels were facing in opposite directions. One facing due east and the other was facing due west. How can they manage to see each other without walking, turning around, or even moving their heads (this was in the middle of the desert, and there was no reflecting material for miles around). How did they manage?

2. The Tale of Abdul the Jeweler One night a thief stole into Abdul’s shop. The thief joyfully came across a pile of diamonds. His first thought was to – The Ambassador of Indian Music take them all, but then his conscience bothered him, and he decided to content Indu Chandrasekhar himself with only half. And so he took half of the diamonds plus one. Strangely Seventh Grade, Smithton Middle School enough, a few minutes later, a second thief entered the shop and took half of the avi Shankar, born in Varanasi, India Mana,” which brought his music into the remaining diamonds and one. Then a R on April 7, 1920, is regarded as new age with its unique method of third thief entered the shop and took half India’s greatest living musician. He is a combining electronics and instruments. the remaining diamonds and one more. famous composer, performer, teacher, and He has also given some memorable Then a fourth thief entered and took half writer. He has a 17-year-old daughter, concerts at the Monterey Pop Festival in the remainder and one more. Then a fifth Anoushka, who has already had her 1967 and the Woodstock Festival in 1969. thief entered, but took no diamonds since concert debut on the sitar, and a second Among the many artists in the world, Ravi they were all gone. How many diamonds wife, Sukanya. Throughout his lifetime he Shankar has played with legendary were in the pile to start with? has received numerous awards for his violinist Yehudi Menuhin and the talent in playing the sitar. Some even Beatles, who for some 3. Sinbad and Hinbad compare him to Mozart, whose ingenious time were his disciples. compositions were as brilliant as Ravi Shankar is famous There were two friends named Sinbad and Hinbad. They each owned the same Shankar’s. because of his work in His love for the sitar began when he bringing Indian music to number of horses. How many should Sinbad give Hinbad so that Hinbad has six started studying under the renowned the West. By doing so, he guru, Baba Allaudin Khan. After made the sitar extremely popular, more than Sinbad? studying hard for years, his and many people came to his concerts first concert was in 1939 because he had such great audience 4. Sinbad the Sailor at for a interaction. He would talk to the audience On one of the boats on which Sinbad Music Concert. By between pieces. This trait carried on the Sailor sailed, there was a ladder hung then, Shankar had through his teaching skills. over the side that contained six rungs. finally made a name All of Ravi Shankar’s hard work has paid The rungs were spaced one foot apart. At for himself, and by off, in the sense that he has received 14 low tide, the water came up to the second 1945, it was beginning to doctorates and 25 awards. Among those rung from the bottom. Then the water show; his sitar recitals in awards there have been two Grammys, rose two feet. Which rung did the water festivals created an enormous impact on the Padma Vibhushan - the Highest then hit? the Indian population because of the Civilian Award, the Lifetime Achievement sitar’s beautiful sound and his interaction Award, and the title ‘Global Ambassador.’ 5. The Pony Who Got Lost with the audience. Soon, his dream of And did you know that he was nominated One day one of the smaller ponies got bringing Indian music to another as a member of the Indian Parliament, lost in the desert for five days. He walked hemisphere came true. Also in 1945, he known as Rajya Sabha, in 1986? a certain distance the first day, and on composed “Sare Jahan Se Accha,” which There have been some dedications, too; each of the other days he walked one mile was the most popular song next to the in 1983, Houston, Texas declared June more than he had on the previous day. At Indian National Anthem. 4th and 5th Ravi Shankar days, and in the end of the five days, he was back Ravi Shankar has composed many 1996, a computer room was dedicated to home exhausted, since he had walked duets that he has played with Yehudi Ravi Shankar at Diegueno Junior High altogether fifty-five miles. How many Menuhin and others in the Hindustani School in Encinitas, CA. And, in one of is miles did he walk on the last day? music style. He has also written two 1995 concerts, his daughter, Anoushka, concertos for a sitar and orchestra, as well was presented in her debut performance 6. The Magic Tree as compositions for celebrities and on the sitar. A magic tree doubled its height himself. And, he has composed music for Today, Shankar continues to work at a everyday. It took one hundred days for films and ballets in India, Canada, the good rate despite his 79 years and recent the tree to reach its full height. How many United States, and Europe. Some health problems, which include two heart days did it take to reach half its full important films include “Gandhi” and the attacks. In the last year, he has played in height? “Apu Trilogy”. Japan, Singapore, America, Europe and Ravi Shankar also invented 30 ragas, all India, and he remains energetic for the (Answers on Page 3) featured in his 1987 recording,“Tana future☯ 6 Bal Sandesh Tri-Yearly Newsletter of the Bal Sabha of Columbia, MO Indian Architecture Vellore S, Arthi Seventh Grade, Smithton Middle School

ndian architecture dates back to be constructed to ensure seclusion. The I thousands of years ago. Many of the basic structure of the temple has older structures can be no longer seen, undergone little change down the due to the fact that they were made of centuries. wood and therefore did not withstand weather and time. Indian architecture can Islamic Architecture be classified into many groups. The styles The conquest of Delhi by Muhammad I will cover in this article are Hindu Ghauri changed the future of Indian architecture, Islamic architecture, Buddhist society radically. The rulers had temples architecture, Jain architecture, Colonial broken, which were then remodeled as architecture, and Contemporary mosques. Then Muslim artisans started architecture. experimenting with Persian and Hindu Chariot temple, Vijayanagar, Karnataka architecture; Indian styles and motifs were Hindu Architecture merged with the beautiful Islamic Hindu architecture concentrates heavily the shikhara, or pinnacle. The vimana is a calligraphy. The result was a whole new on the religious and spiritual. In fact, rather dark and gloomy place and houses and completely unique style of design. temples were always a big part of Hindu the divine deity. This small area is called Muslim architecture can be classified as architecture.. After a brief period of garbha griha, literally meaning 'womb religious and secular. Mosques or masjids decline, when Buddhism was the popular house'. The entrance is through a are very simple. The religion itself forbids religion, the revival of Hinduism in the 5th doorway, normally from the east (which is the use of idols, or that of anything fancy, century AD gave a new boost to sculptors. considered auspicious). The doorway is and this principle was kept in mind when The artisans carved massive temples out building mosques. The mosque should be of a single rock face. In fact, under orders basically just an open courtyard from the rulers of the Rashtrakuta dynasty, surrounded by a pillared verandah, sculptors carved out temples from gigantic crowned off with a dome. Walls were solid stone – after they had actually moved added, and one with an alcove called them away from the mountainside! Early mihrab, indicated the direction for prayer. temples were mostly dedicated to Shiva, An elevated platform, usually a minaret, and their interiors were quite simple. Later, was also added. A mosque in the South however, the pillars were elaborately Indian Islamic style of architecture is carved, and these came to be richly Golconda. Although not really religious, adorned with scenes from the Ramayana the tomb introduces an entirely new and the Mahabharata. In Thanjavur, the architectural concept. While the masjid capital of the Cholas who were ruling this was known for its simplicity, a tomb could area in the 10th century, there stands a be simple ,or if desired could be as fancy temple made entirely of granite. Standing as the architect wanted. The tomb usually at a height of about 207ft, the Thanjavur consists of solitary compartment or tomb temple is famous for its bronze and stone chamber in whose center is the cenotaph. sculptures and its narrative murals. The Deep under the cenotaph, the body is dynasties after them continued building buried. This entire structure is covered with temples that, while not touching the basic an elaborate dome. The Taj Mahal, a standard set during the Chola period, only mausoleum of white marble is known the added to the temple's style and form. world over. Other famous examples of Gopuras were huge temples, twice as high Jagannath temple in Puri, Orissa Islamic architecture include Qutub Minar, as they were broad with uneven stories and Fatehpur Sikri. Almost all Islamic which tapered as they went along. Hindus reached through a mandapa or pillared monuments were allowed to freely use liberally used images of gods, goddesses, hall, where devotees gather for prayers. verses from the Koran, and these were and their vehicles. The most amazing The most perfect example of a temple carved and inlayed elaborately. In the 14th aspect of architecture in the 15th century with this structure are the famous century Islamic architecture underwent a would probably be the chariot temples of Khajuraho temples (950-1050AD). A change – the narrow horseshoe arch was south India, which feature massive rock- famous example of the South Indian replaced by the true arch, an idea from cut chariots. These huge chariots are temple style is the Madurai Meenakshi Persia. The gate was a standard feature in drawn by elephants. The 16th century saw temple. Another famous temple is the Sun every Islamic monument, be it the the revival of Hindu temple architecture Temple at Konarak. In some parts of India, entrance to a citadel, city, palace, mosque especially in the south. though, this ascending pyramid roof format or simply a gate leading nowhere. The construction of temples – whether in was not followed. The roof in such temples Amongst the secular buildings stand the the north or south – essentially followed a was still pyramidical, but was formed of palace and the fort, where emperors and similar pattern. There’s the sanctuary or layers, which gradually became narrower kings lived and fought battles. These, the vimana of which the upper and outer as they rose. A courtyard was built around again, were extremely elaborate and pyramidical and tapering portion is called the temple, and sometimes a wall would massive structures, of enormous height. Tri-Yearly Newsletter of the Bal Sabha of Columbia, MO Bal Sandesh 7 consisting of houses, small stupas, and surpassing even Mughal buildings in terms solitary pillars. While the stupas were of material wealth. These temple-cities places of religious learning. Buddhist were not built to a specific plan; instead temples were used for a dual purpose; they were the results of sporadic praying and teaching. Brick was rarely construction. Each temple, though, used, and stone formed the base of most followed a set pattern, designed on temple building. The Hinayana sect principles of architecture in use during the excavated halls out of mountains, creating time. The only variation was in the form of temples out of them. The Mahayana sect frequent chaumukhs or four-faced made the temples in Ajanta and Ellora. temples. In these the image of a Tirthankar The Ajanta carvings consist of viharas or (ford maker) would face four sides. Usually halls, supported by pillars, all cut out from the exits lead into a series of columnar one solid piece of mountain. In stupas and chambers into the central halls of the Doorway at Fatehpur Sikri, Uttar Pradesh places of worship, the Buddha is almost temple. These are temples within a never shown, but is represented indirectly temple, and the maze of columns act as a Built almost entirely of stone and marble, through foot impressions, empty thrones or defense against plunderers. palaces could be as high as five stories. chakra (wheel). Forts were essentially functional, complete Colonial Architecture with a little township within and various Jain Architecture Although the British were not the first fortifications to engage and repel the Jain architecture combines elements of Europeans to come to India, they left more enemy. both Hindu and Buddhist architecture. In than a lasting impact on this country in the beginning, wherever there would be terms of architecture. The British followed Buddhist Architecture Buddhist temples, Jains would make their different architectural styles – Gothic, The origin of Buddhist architecture goes own, following the Buddhist rock-cut style. Imperial, Christian, English Renaissance back to Gandhara, the region from the Later, Jains discovered the concept of and Victorian being the most common. Khyber Pass to the river Indus. The “mountains of immortality”. Whenever they The Secretariat, University Library, Rajabai monasteries were made of stone. The first saw a peaceful mountain or hill, they would Tower, the Law Courts, Public Works Buddhist stupa came about during this mark it as the spot for temple building. Office, Telegraph Office, Victoria Terminus period. The more decorative art was in the Jains built temple-cities on hills. Compared all followed the Victorian Gothic style, form of small stupas illustrated with clay to the number of Hindu temples in India, similar to buildings in London. images of birds, dragons, sea serpents Jain shrines are few and spaced out. This and humans. The most characteristic trait is largely because they tore down their of Gandhara sculpture is the standing or older temples and built new improved seated Buddha. There were stone pillars versions at the same site. Mt. Abu is an with inscriptions on, stupas, monolithic example of Jain architecture. Surrounded pillars, shrines, and group of rock-cut by embattled walls, the temples are chambers (the Ajanta and Ellora caves). divided into wards in a manner similar to Another well known example of the rock- fortified cities with parapets and niches to cut style is Elephanta caves, near Mumbai. repel armed aggression. The reason The stupas were large halls capped with a behind so many precautions was that Jain dome and had symbols of the Buddha. temples are the richest temples in the Their purpose was to instill awe into the world, minds of the common people who, at that University Library, Mumbai, Maharastra time, lived in small wooden houses. The most famous of the stupas is the one at Built during 1878 and 1887, the Victoria Sanchi, which was originally built by Terminus is the finest example of Gothic Emperor Ashoka. The other all-important architecture in India. Across India, Gothic Buddhist building is the shrine or the architecture flourished under the British. monastery. Religious in nature, the Towards the end of the 19th century, the construction of a monastery followed a Victorian Indo-Saracenic style was somewhat different style. Built on the popular. This style combined elements of pattern of a fort and defended by a stone Islamic, Hindu, and Victorian architecture. wall, the monastery evolved from the site The Indo-Saracenic style was Indian on of an ancient stupa. Living quarters for the outside and British inside. Chennai is monks were separated from that of prayer, the home to some terrific examples of this style, including the National Museum and the High Court Building. With India’s independence in 1947, British architecture lost popularity. It’s influence, particularly in Delhi, can be seen in the continued use of red and butter colored sandstone.

Traditional Indian Architecture based on Vaastu Shastra Vaastu shastra is the science of placing things, buildings and each little thing which matters according to its rightful place. Sanch Stupa, Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh Intricately carved columns of a Jain temple Vaastu Shilpa shastra, as it is formally

continued on the next page 8 Bal Sandesh Tri-Yearly Newsletter of the Bal Sabha of Columbia, MO Two score and more! – Bal Sabha youngsters sing the Indian and U.S. National Anthems at India Nite 99 PHOTO GALLERY Semi-classical dance based on Kathak portrays Lord Krishna and his two consorts celebrating Holi, the festival of colors

Songs at Pongal/Sankranti 2000 – Pongal o’ Pongal – Dance by a a traditional offering from the group of young damsels at the Tamil class youngsters, many of Pongal/Sankranti 2000 whom are active Bal Sabha celebrations held on January members 16, 2000

known is the ancient mystic science of Bathrooms were meant to be in the east, designing and building. This art originates kitchen in the southeast, bedrooms in the in the Stapatya Veda, a part of the Athara south, dressing rooms in the southwest, Veda, one of the four Vedas. Vaastu dining halls in the west, treasury in the Shastra is based on five basic and north and prayer room in the northeast. essential elements known as the Vaastu Shaastra is still practiced in India. Panchabhutas: Vaayu (air), Agni (fire) Jal, (water), Bhumi (earth) and Aakasha Contemporary Architecture (space). Everything on earth is built from Three years after independence, these elements. In ancient India, the use Charles Edouard Jeanneret (Le of stone was restricted and was only used Corbusier), was hired by the Punjab for temples. Civil architecture was made of government to design the new city of wood, but as time moved on, palaces and Chandigarh. He and other European important buildings began to be built of architects, along with Indian architects, stone. It is because of this that nothing of started rebuilding India’s structures to fit houses from the ancient period have the more modern styles found all over the survived. In Vaastu Shastra, things have to world. A good example of the be done at a certain time. Even wood was contemporary style is the Life Insurance to be brought from forests at a certain Corporation (LIC) Building in New Delhi, time, ensuring that whichever spirits cast designed by the famous Indian architect , their eyes on the construction were nice Charles Correa. He helped design these ones. These buildings were divided into modern buildings, not unlike the shaalas, or rooms and avoided incorrect skyscrapers and office buildings we see placement of any of the main parts. here in the U.S☯ LIC Building, New Delhi Tri-Yearly Newsletter of the Bal Sabha of Columbia, MO Bal Sandesh 9 Saraswati A Monument of Love The Goddess of Knowledge The Taj Mahal Ajay Nair Vellore S. Adithi Fourth Grade Third Grade, Ridgeway Elementary School Ridgeway Elementary School

araswati is the goddess of knowledge, hah Jahan was the fifth emperor of workmen from all over and S and the wife of the creator Brahma. S the Mughal dynasty. Shah Jahan West Asia were assembled for the task of Saraswati is the one who gives the ruled from 1627 to 1658. Mumtaz Mahal building the Taj Mahal. It is a building of essence (sara) of our own self (swa). The was his beloved wife who died in 1631. He perfect proportions and looks the same symbols in the form of Saraswati have the wanted to enshrine her mortal remains in from all sides. A dome 237 feet high tops following significance: the most beautiful mausoleum ever built. the large entrance to the cenotaph ]Her seat is a Lotus or a Peacock. This Work started on the Taj Mahal in 1632 chamber. Slender minarets and smaller means that the teacher is well- and continued for 22 years before the domes are arranged around the main established in the subjective experience entire complex was completed. Even structure in a pleasing manner. of the truth. When sitting on a peacock though Shah Jahan left Agra for Delhi work The mausoleum is based on a pattern of she reminds us that ego is to be continued in his absence according to the squares and circles and the main body of suppressed. designs he had approved. However in the tomb is a perfect square 186 feet in ]She has four arms – manas (mind), 1658 Aurangazeb the younger son of Shah length. The arches are highlighted with buddhi (intellect), chitta (conditioned Jahan disposed of the eldest son of the floral inlay work and calligraphy. The consciousness), and ahamkar (ego). emperor, Dara Shikoh, imprisoned his fretted screens are exquisitely carved out Manas and buddhi together hold the Veena (Indian Lute). This suggests that father in the Agra Fort and declared from solid marble and form an octagon a truly qualified teacher tunes up the himself emperor. around the mind and intellect of the seeker and Shah Jahan cenotaphs. The draws out of him the music and melody remained imprisoned, cenotaph of Mumtaz of his life. If such tuning is not done, but was able to gaze at Mahal lies directly mental agitation and disharmony with the Taj Mahal from the under the main the world reign. Chitta holds the Agra Fort, until his dome with the larger scriptures, implying that the knowledge death in 1666. Shah cenotaph of Shah of the Scriptures alone can take us to Jahan’s original plans Jahan to its side. the Truth (path of Knowledge). The were to build a black Down below in the remaining arm, ahamkar, holds the version of the Taj mortuary chamber, beads, to bring out the importance of Mahal alongside the Mumtaz Mahal’s prayer and meditation (path of Bhakti). Taj to be his own gravestone is ]Her sari, always white, reminds us that mausoleum. However inscribed with the all knowledge of value should be pure these plans could not ninety-nine names and unsullied by untruth. be carried out owing to of Allah. There are ]The graceful swan by her side reminds his imprisonment and floral designs with us to separate the chaff from the grain of true knowledge☯ subsequent death. inlay of semi-precious stones like agate, Great thought had been given to the site bloodstone, lapis lazuli and carnelian. of the Taj. Viewed from Agra Fort, it Through the years, after the decline of the becomes clear that Shah Jahan planned it Mughal Empire, invaders carried away as a riverside “rauza” which is a tomb set gold and silver used as decorations, some in a garden and by a river. In this case it even chipping away at the precious was the river Yamuna. stones. The greater danger was from The entrance to the Taj Mahal is a high pollution by oil refineries situated near sandstone gateway decorated with marble Agra. With recent initiatives, the and topped with cupolas. A garden Government of India has been successful surrounds the Taj and a waterway with in reducing pollution so that this monument fountains leads to the monument. of love can be enjoyed by the generations The finest builders, artisans and to come☯

Saraswati Prayer Translation (with help from Dr. Murarilal Nagar)

YAA KUNDENDU THUSHARA HARA DAVALA May Goddess Saraswati protect us all. YAA SHUBRA VASTRA VRUTAA She is as white as a Kunda lily flower, the moon, YAA VEENA VAR DANDA MANDITHA KARA snow, and a pearl necklace. YAA SHVETA PADHMASANA She is wearing a white sari. YAA BRAHMACHYUTHA SHANKARA She is playing the veena in her hands. PRABHUTI BHI She is seated on a white lotus. DEVAI SADA VANDITA She is always worshipped by Brahma, Vishnu, Saraswati – The Goddess of Knowledge SA MAAM PATU SARASWATI BHAGAVATI Shankara, and all the other gods. NISHESHA JADYA PAHA She removes all the ignorance. May Goddess Bhagavati Saraswati protect us all. 10 Bal Sandesh Tri-Yearly Newsletter of the Bal Sabha of Columbia, MO Ingredients in Indian Cooking Sathish and Suresh Mohan formerly from Smithton Middle School

ooking ingredients from India can be asafetida, bay leaves, black pepper, make a medium strength dough. Cover for C categorized into grains, dals, beans, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, crystal salt, about 15 minutes and then make dough spices, oils, and flour. These ingredients cumin seeds, coriander seeds, dry ginger into lemon-sized balls. Roll these balls are carefully chosen and included in right powder, dry red chillies, fennel seeds, into round (flat) chappathis. Use flour or oil proportions in Indian dishes to offer a tasty garlic, fenugreek, mustard seeds, red chilli to prevent chappathis sticking to any and nutritious meal. powder, sesame seeds, tamarind, and surface. Cook the finished chappathis on a turmeric powder. As you can see, not all heated pan with a little oil at the edge and Grains are rich in carbohydrates and spices are hot but provide different flavors flipping them to the other side with a form the bulk of the meal. They include and taste. spatula until they are adequately cooked. boiled rice, jowar (cholam), pounded rice, puffed rice, rava sooji, raw rice, sago, Oils are mainly used to fry or flavor Moong Dal: You need moong dal 1 cup, vermicilli, and wheat sooji. Cooked rice, dishes. They include butter, coconut oil, salt 1.5 tsp, green chillies 4, coriander uppuma, pongal, semia uppuma are the margarine, peanut oil, sesame oil, and leaves and curry leaves, onion medium common foods made. sunflower oil. size 1, tomato medium size 1, turmeric powder half a tsp, mustard seeds 1 tsp, Dals are known for their high protein Flour is the foundation of most main urad dal 2 tsp, cumin 2 tsp and garlic 2 content. They include bengal gram, Indian dishes. A variety of foods are made cloves. Soak dal in 1.5 cups of water, add channa dal, moong dal, masoor dal, toor from different types of flour like dosa, turmeric powder and cook dal until it is dal, and urad dal. Dals can be used to chappathi, parata, and puri. Flours used soft. In a pan heat 2 tablespoons of oil make dishes like sambar, and vada. include all-purpose flour (wheat), channa and fry mustard seeds, urad dal and cumin flour, rice flour, and wheat flour. The most seeds until the dal is golden brown in Beans: In Indian cooking beans can be common one is wheat flour. color. Add onions, garlic, chillies, and cooked in a lot of ways. Beans are mainly Well we hope you’ve learned a little continue frying until the oninon browns. found in curries to increase protein intake. about Indian cooking ingredients. Here are Then add tomatoes and turn them for 2 Black beans, black eyed beans, chickpeas, two recipes that will serve your family a minutes. Add 1 cup of water and salt and dry lima beans, dry peas, moong beans, delicious and authentic Indian meal. cover and leave the contents to boil. After and red beans are commonly used in about 5 minutes, add the cooked dal and Indian cooking. Chappathi The ingredients include leave for another 3 minutes. Season with wheat flour 2 cups, salt 2 teaspoons, oil 2 curry leaves and coriander leaves. Spices are a must for most Indian teaspoons and water 2 cups. Mix flour, salt recipes. Indian dishes contain different and oil in a bowl, add water as necessary Try these recipes and enjoy chappathis types of spices for example, ajwain, and knead using rotary movements to with the moong dal!☯ TO BE OR NOT TO BE Lavanya Palavalli and Runjhun Misra Juniors, Hickman High School

aju, it’s time for the puja!” called my much I owe my heritage for making me the significant influence of a competing set of R mom. I jumped two stairs at a time person I am today. values outside the home. You have to and landed on the floor next to my mother. This is what I realize that most Indian parents try to raise People around me were in a trance want to convey to their children with good Indian values, yet chanting hymns to the Lord. I glanced at all the kids out they allow an American influence on their my watch, and realized I had ten minutes there. Being children as long as it has a positive impact before leaving for the sleepover at my Indian and a on their growth. friend Justin’s house. representative of Sometimes there are situations where “Mamma, can I go get my backpack its heritage is a the child living in a multicultural society is because I need to leave for Justin’s matter of pride. often questioned and ridiculed for some of house?” I asked my mom. Yet it is the acts he or she commits in public. In “As soon as you get the tilak you can,” sometimes such situations, they may be inclined to she replied. I said no more, but waited daunting for suppress their culture to fit in amongst until she put the red mark on my forehead. young children to their peers. Escaping from one’s culture is Before leaving however, I ran upstairs to easily usually not a successful way of being the bathroom to wipe off the red mark from accommodate accepted elsewhere. my forehead. As I came downstairs, I was different cultures. Every culture is unique, and owes its questioned by my dad as to why I had What is accepted existence to differing values and ideas. taken off the mark symbolizing a blessing. in one culture may not be in another. This Being a part of a different culture allows That is when I realized that my heritage is may lead to more confusion for the child one to see things from different viewpoints, not something to be ashamed of, but who has grown up in a society that has a adding to the creativity of one’s instead something to be cherished for its culture, dominant and different from that in personality. By being oneself, one will be uniqueness. their own homes. Sometimes it is difficult respected for one’s individuality. So be That was ten years ago. Now that I am for children to see the importance of one’s whoever you are, and always stay true to 18 years old, I have finally realized how own culture especially since there is a your real self☯ Tri-Yearly Newsletter of the Bal Sabha of Columbia, MO Bal Sandesh 11 BOOKLESS Runjhun Misra Junior, Hickman High School

ead six books and get an edible aloud to others. If you can imagine having they think of the wisdom the people “R bookmark!” rang the excited voice thousands of books -- of all shapes and acquired after reading a book. of a 9th grade English teacher on the very sizes lying everywhere possible, then you “Satisfaction comes from within my boy!” first day of school. can probably visualize how Grandpa Lit’s was the reply the greedy Kings received “What is an edible bookmark?” asked house looked from inside. There were little every time they came to buy the books. one of the students. tiny books for children and books as big as “Never, hear me? Never will any one of “A free waffle cone from TCBY!” the suitcases for adults. Every nook and you succeed if you steal this bountiful teacher replied. corner that might have gone empty was treasure.” This is just one way of stimulating stuffed with books. Old, brown, books that Time after time, the Kings departed students to read. But for one who already fell to pieces if touched with a heavy hand, Water Falls angered with Grandpa Lit, and knows the joy of reading, one requires no and brand new, brightly adorned books like determined to steal his books somehow. stimulus. It should come from within each the colors of a rainbow mixed with gentle Now, a secret none but you know and I person. It is true that in each human being sprinkles of gold and silver dust. know is that Water Falls was secretly there is a small part that begs for a little There was no need for a library in old blessed by the ancient gods. No possible drop of imagination every now and then, village Water Falls since Grandpa Lit had harm could befall Water Falls as long as which can only be supplied by reading. every book from far and near stored Grandpa Lit had his books near him. It was When we were children, we believed in somewhere in his house. Grandpa Lit’s known that Grandpa Lit’s books acted as a fairy tales and other magical thoughts. house was a fairly big house, with four defense barrier for Village Water Falls. Those magical thoughts still lie within us. windows facing the four different Every time an attempt to steal the books However, as we grow older, we tend to directions. The windows were covered was made, the pages of the books were lose the touch with imagination. We don’t lightly with activated, as if by magic, and at once the take the endless flights to neverland dark green villagers arrived to catch the greedy thief. anymore, waking up to the bright, fresh ivy, and small No one knew of this wonderful secret sunshine. These flights of fancy happen red roses in except you and me for a very long time only to those who remember the joy of bloom. Inside until... fairy tales after they have grown up. They the house, But wait. Will you not admit that you will still, somewhere inside them, have a there were found yourself caught up with this story? mind that believes in fantasies. For others, four rooms, Did you need an incentive to read it? No! If life is as it is -- without any hope and and a great writing is interesting, then one miracles. big hall for automatically finds oneself attracted to it Let’s think about it. What is reading? If I his annual book parties. The book parties like a bee gravitates to nectar. This is the were to describe reading, I would describe normally took place on the first day of gift that reading bestows on all lucky it as food for the hungry wolf’s mind. While autumn when the first hint of orange and readers. Readers need not be scared to reading, we can sit in our very own room, red appeared on the edges of the leaves. read to oneself every time and anytime and visit far away places we have never Inside the great big hall, there was a one feels the need to do so. Anybody who visited. For example, an avid reader might chandelier in the middle, and a grand has the ability to read should consider have swum in the Nile river amongst piano on the west side of the hall themselves a very lucky person indeed!!!! dangerous crocodiles, scoured the bushes overlooking the great bay of Water Falls. Reading educates us, creates strong to find hidden treasure in the Andes, taken Here, Grandpa Lit would often sit and read emotions inside us, and befriends us for a a bumpy ride on an Indian elephant, while watching the sunset and the twilight lifetime. One can never become bored with experienced the future with a time seep in. It was one of life’s little pleasures words on paper. Just read ahead, it machine, and investigated a horrendous that made his little cup of joy overflow. doesn’t necessarily have to all make murder in the narrow streets of London. Grandpa Lit’s kitchen was the most sense, but if we read on, soon everything Reading is the gateway to imagination. darling thing anyone could have ever will make sense. No matter how old we are, everyone needs imagined. There were pots of honeysuckle Another joy of reading is reading aloud to read. To me, reading serves as a friend. near every sunlit spot, and ivy flowed like a to others. Of course everyone remembers Whenever I’m bored - wherever I may be, I river on the whitewashed ceiling. There when they were young, and their parents grab a book -- any book, and begin to were miniature lights over the stove, which used to read them bedtime stories. With read.... looked much like books, and four characterization in one’s voice, a simple Once upon a time, in a tiny village called delicately carved chairs around his antique story could be transformed into a Water Falls, there lived an old man known wooden oak table. magnificent adventure! Wow! Reading as Grandpa Lit -- short for literature. Water Falls was known for Grandpa Lit sure is the way of life. It must go on. Those Grandpa Lit was an old man with a snowy and his books. From far and near over who are “bookless” or who have not yet white beard, blue eyes covered with white, high seas and low valleys, great rulers discovered the joy of reading, are surely shaggy eyebrows, wrinkles nearly came with tons of money to cajole missing out on the greatest personal everywhere, and a smile that warmed the Grandpa Lit to sell his books. But every pleasures of life. It’s never too late for heart of any needy soul. Grandpa was time, the offer was refused. The greedy anyone who has been “bookless” too many known for his everlasting red corduroy rulers thought that the satisfaction the times to still begin the journey where overalls with his brown boots which he people of Water Falls gained from the anything is possible☯ wore every moment of the day. Grandpa books was thinking about the money they Lit was very fond of reading to himself and held in each of the books. Not once did 12 Bal Sandesh Tri-Yearly Newsletter of the Bal Sabha of Columbia, MO Kudos to Bal Sabha!

The Cultural Association of India (CAI) teamed up with Cosmopolitan Club to participate in the 1999 Walk for Diabetes organized by the American Diabetes Association. Bal Sabha was well represented with over twenty members on the CAI contingent and as a part of the Cosmo Walkers team. Needless to say …... Cosmo Walkers placed first!!! Team members sport big grins in the photo-after.

SAMBAR – Stew type side dish to Rani of Jhansi BAWARCHI accompany Idlis Song and translation provided by Ingredients: Sambar masala paste 1 tbsp. Coriander seeds Sruti Saran The Kitchen Corner ½ tsp. Fenugreek Seventh Grade Vellore S. Arthi 2 tsp. Chana dal Smithton Middle School with expert assistance from visiting Grandma ½ tsp. Asafetida powder 6 Whole red chilies 1 tbsp. Coconut, grated MAA MAA MUJHKO KAHAANI KEH DEY 2 tbsp. Vegetable oil IDLI – South Indian ricecakes JHAANSI VAALI RAANI KEE Ingredients: Sambar HAAN HAAN VAHEE KAHAANI KEH DEY Ingredients: 1 8-0z Cup udad dal 8 oz. Toor dal RUNH CHANDEE MARDAANEE KEE 3 8-0z Cups rice 1 Sprig coriander leaves 5 or 6 Curry leaves JISNEY BHARAT MAATA KEY HITH Salt to taste JEEVAN KAA BALEEDAAN KIYAA Directions: Soak the udad dal and rice 2 tsp. Tamarind concentrate 1 tsp. Mustard seeds PRAANON KEE BAAZI THEE KHELEE separately. Grind the udad dal to a fine HANSTEY VISH KAA GHOONT PIYAA Salt to taste paste. Grind the rice to a grainy 2 large carrots sliced RUNH MEIN KHOOB LIYEY TALWAAR consistency like play sand. Mix the two (alternately, pearl onions, KOOD PADEE THEE DUSHMAN PAR batters together, add salt and let it sit in a green beans, chayote MAAR KAAT KEE JHADEE LAGAA DEE squash etc) NAAREE THEE YAA VAH THEE NAR? warm spot for 6 hours or overnight. Grease the idli plate and pour 1 ladle full Directions: In a pan, heat 2-tsp. oil, and US VEERAA KSHATRAANEE KAA JAB add the sambar masala ingredients except of batter into each of the cups in the plate. DHYAAN HRUDAY MEIN KUCH AATA the coconut. Fry till the dal is golden MASTAK USKEY CHARANON MEIN Each time you fill the idli plates, make sure brown. Add coconut, stir for a few seconds TAB ANAAYAAS HEE JHUK JAATAA you mix the batter thoroughly before and remove from stove. Grind into a fine JEE KARTAA HAI MAIN BHEE VAISAA ladling out into the idli plates. Steam for 5- paste adding water as necessary. VEER YUVAK BAN DIKHLAAOON 7 minutes. Remove from stove, cool for a Boil toor dal until soft and set aside. BHARAT MAATAA KEY HITH couple of minutes and carefully remove by Fry mustard seeds using 1tbsp oil. When NYOCHCHAAVAR HO they begin to sputter, add vegetable(s). DESH BHAKTH SUTH KEHLAAOON loosening the idlis from the plate with a a Sauté for a couple of minutes, and add 2 sharp edged spoon. cups water. When the vegetables are Translation

about halfway cooked, mix in tamarind O mother, tell me the story Note: Amounts specified will make 50 Idlis concentrate and salt. Add the ground Of the Queen of Jhansi. sambar masala paste to this mixture, and Yes, Yes tell me the story This column is going to be a regular feature in boil. When the vegetables are cooked Of the Goddess of Battle with male prowess Bal Sandesh beginning this issue. If you have tender add the cooked dal, coriander leaves and curry leaves. Simmer for 5-7 The one who, for Mother India recipes to share with our readers, please send minutes stirring frequently to keep the Sacrificed her life them to our editorial staff or parent advisors. sambar well blended. Playing the game of life and death We will select a few recipes to include in each Smilingly consuming the poison issue. Photos to accompany recipes will also be Note: Amounts specified will make 2 qts. In battle, armed with her mighty sword appreciated. (liters) of sambar Attacking the enemy with vigor Bringing endless death and destruction Was she really a woman, or a man?

Bal Sandesh needs your help! Whenever I conjure the image We welcome submissions of all types (reports, poetry, short Of that mighty lady-warrior in my heart stories, artwork, puzzles, jokes etc.). Work can be submitted I bow spontaneously towards her feet In utter reverence… to the Editor or the Parent Advisors. We prefer electronic version of the submission (e-mail or diskette). Artwork can be Wish that I might Bal Sabha submitted on paper. Older kids interested in volunteering to Be as brave a youth (as she was) of Columbia, Missouri serve on the editorial/production team should contact the May I have the opportunity to Editorial Staff or the Parent Advisors. Sacrifice my life for Mother India And be remembered as her patriot-son!

Editorial Staff Phone E-Mail Runjhun Misra 446-8964 [email protected] Vellore S. Arthi 446-0663 [email protected] Lavanya Palavalli 445-3292 [email protected] Published Tri-Yearly Republic Day Issue– January Parent Advisors Summer Issue – May Vellore S. Gopalaratnam 446-0663 [email protected] India Nite Issue (Fall, Section of India Nite Booklet) Sandhya Sharma 875-4162 [email protected] Shailesh Vengurlekar 445-4391 [email protected]