An ethnic welcome to the Monsoons!

The month of Karkidagam in Kerala brings in the rhythemic beat of the rains. The showers is the harbinger of new life to the gardens and pastures, the rivers and creeks swell up and a year's dirt and dust is washed away. But this season of new found freshness brings with it a horde of diseases and epidemics from the dust and dirt that spreads into the atmosphere. The incessant rainfalls thus seem as an indication that it is time for the body to relax and rejuvenate.

In Ayurveda,Rithu charya or specific and strategic diet plan and lifestyle helps keep illness at bay. The traditional preparation for Karkidagam in Kerala is a reflection of the Ayurvedic way of life. It starts with intensive cleaning of the household to avoid germs from multiplying in the humidity. The Indian epic and holy book of Ramayana is read regularly during this season. Hence the term Ramayana Maasam (the month or maas of Ramayana) is given to this period. The Ayurvedic belief of spiritual healing through prayers, chants and meditations is emphasized through this practice.

Dashapushpam, a cluster of ten effective herbs also worn by women in hair during Karkidagam are used in ayurvedic medicine and formulas. Marunnu Kanji also known as Karkidaga kanji, a special herbal gruel, is made from medicinal herbs, spices and dairy products like fenugreek, coriannder seeds, cow's milk, coconut milk along with Navarra rice , broken wheat and green gram dal to boost immunity and improve stamina.