Manchadi

In the midst of the gradual transition from summer to autumn, I found myself grappling with a series of challenging weeks. The lack of meaningful connections, coupled with feelings of loneliness and burnout, cast a heavy shadow over my mental well-being. In a moment of clarity, I made the impulsive decision to take a much-needed week off to focus on recuperation—a choice I hadn't allowed myself in far too long.

Though my decision to prioritize self-care was met with disdain from my family, who couldn't comprehend my desire for solitude, I remained steadfast in my commitment to rediscovering joy in my own company. As the days passed, I began to notice subtle shifts in my outlook. Slowly but surely, I found myself reconnecting with my work, rediscovering a sense of purpose, and, perhaps most importantly, rekindling my love for life.

Recently, a series of events unfolded that felt profoundly significant to me. Therapy sessions, once a source of fatigue, began to feel revitalizing and even enjoyable. Inspired by this newfound enthusiasm, I extended therapy for three patients who expressed satisfaction with our services—an action that brought me immeasurable fulfillment.

On my way home from work, serendipity led me to encounter my senior foster, and together we ventured to the campus fest's bustling food court. Amidst laughter and shared anecdotes, I had the pleasure of meeting her sister—an unexpected yet delightful addition to our evening. Though our time together was brief, the camaraderie we shared left a lasting impression on me.

It was during my solitary walk home, however, that I stumbled upon a seemingly insignificant yet undeniably striking object—a solitary red seed nestled amidst the dirt. As I stooped to pick it up, I couldn't help but marvel at its glossy sheen and vibrant hue. Little did I know, this unassuming seed held a rich and poignant mythological tale within it.

Legend has it that these seeds, known as Manchadi kuru, hold a special place in the ancient Hindu temple of Guruvayur, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Countless devotees have traveled far and wide to offer these humble seeds to the deity—a testament to their unwavering faith and devotion.

To summarise the story, one such devotee, a poor, elderly woman, embarked on a pilgrimage to Guruvayur with nothing but a sack of Manchadi kuru in hand. Despite facing ridicule and scorn upon her arrival, her unwavering dedication did not go unnoticed. In a divine intervention, Lord Vishnu himself appeared to chastise the temple's chief pundit for his arrogance and lack of compassion, ultimately leading to a transformative act of redemption.

While the myth surrounding these seeds is steeped in reverence and spirituality, for me, their significance lies in the sensory experience they evoke. The vibrant color, glossy texture, and subtle shape serve as a reminder of the simple yet profound pleasures life has to offer.

Reflecting on my own experiences, I am reminded of the countless moments of joy and wonder I've experienced throughout my life—whether it be the thrill of treasure hunting beneath the shade of a manchadi tree or the palpable sense of awe upon visiting sacred sites like Guruvayur temple.

I highly recommend going to the Guruvayur temple simply to experience the feeling of dipping your hands into the large golden urali full of coins and seeds. Even if the famed 'luck' associated with this tradition may not strike you at the moment, the tactile, visual and auditory inputs of this experience will give you a resplendent sense of childlike joy and wonder. In that regard, perhaps these seeds truly have a magical effect on our psyche.

In closing, I invite others to embrace life's sensory richness, revel in the simple pleasures surrounding us, and seek solace in the beauty of our shared human experience.