Sri Ramakirti Mahakaviyam – Rajalakshmi Srinivasan - Tamil translation of Satya Vrata Sastrigal’s Sanskrit original – Sahitya Akademi – Rs. 135.
The Ramayana is an epic, dear not only to Indians but to people across South-East Asia, especially Thailand. The storyline of Ramkiyan is not different but there are variations that make it interesting. Sathya Vrata Sastrigal wrote Ramakirti, the Sanskrit version of Ramkiyan and Rajalakshmi Srinivasan has translated it into Tamil. ‘Sri Ramakirti Maha Kaviyam’ turns out to be an absorbing epic poem the diction matching the scene. The fluent and simple Tamil makes it easy to follow the narration. Hanuman has valiant sons, who play key roles in taking the story forward. The post-coronation section is moving Rama and Sita appearing more human than ever.
Herbal remedies
Indiya Maruthuva Mooligaigal (Part 1) – Dr. J. Jayavenkatesh (Siddha) – Shanlax Publications, Maudrai – available at Kokila Hospital and Herbal Training Centre, 27, Jaihindpuram, First Street, Madurai – 625011 – Phone: 0452-2675674, 2675400 – Rs.200.
A stupendous effort. When animals such as monkeys, cats and dogs find antidote in leaves and grass, why does man resort to pills and other medicines, mostly across the counter, for minor ailments? Dr. Jayavenkatesh’s poser in the preface is followed by an account of the herbal treasure about which little is known. The first part contains a list of 200 herbs (with pictures) that can be grown in the kitchen garden and used during emergencies. The book is an effort to identify the plants, an important step because mistaken for weeds they are removed. The approach is positive – medicine for good health. The list of herbs includes Avuri (excellent counter for any poison), arugampul, kasini and kasturi manjal. The writer has given the botanical name, other names, plant family, etc. A pictorial compendium of 2,000 herbs is getting ready, it is learnt. A must in the collection of those inclined to home remedies.
