Saivam - An Introduction
Shaivam is the religion that worships Lord Shiva. Shaivam a very old religion in the Hindu family of religions is very rich in its philosophies. With its vivid branches very well integrated into the root, it becomes the feast, oxygen and life of many philosophers. With the matured philosophies standing on the great vedantic and sidhdhantic strong bases it presents to its followers the great paths to the Blissful Supreme called Shiva.
In the Shaivam there are many doctrines shaiva sidhdhantham, kAshmira shaivam, vIra shaivam, vedAnta shaivam and many others. These are the contributions of very many scholars who prospered under this shaiva discipline. Shaivam is one of the most followed discipline of sanAtana dharama in many of its forms. For most of the shaivites apart from the vedas the Agamas are the scriptures of importance. The Shaivites worship the Supreme as formless, symbol and through many forms all leading to the Ultimate Attributeless Supreme.
Praises to the Supreme Guru, Formless Attributeless and Omniscient shivam, which presents Itself in the form of the Guide who enlightens the pashus with the Supreme knowledge towards Itself, the Thing explainable only by Him. To that Guru who blissfully explains sitting under the banyan tree salutations, salutations, salutations.
The Supreme shiva who stands beyond immeasurable depth and height, stands beyond the limits of time, enacting the Five deeds (paJNcha kR^ityam), enjoying completely in the Self, uplifting the one who worships, that God and Its glory are too immense to be described in detail for anybody. It stands beyond the limits of sex to be described He, She or It. It is the Absolute which is not born out of anything else. It stands as the pillar of flame with innumerable facades. Very many are the philosophies that looks into few of those facades praising Its Glory in the ways they can.
This work is an attempt to speak about the splendor of that Supreme Luminance called Lord shiva from the perspective I see It. Sure, the speech about that glory will never end, but it is the huge desire to talk about Him that motivates this work. It is needless to say it is not a complete index even to the information on His holy paths of Shaivam. But it is a glimpse of the Glory of pashupati who comes to us because of His unlimited Grace liberating us. If that Supreme Lord shiva has to be described flawlessly it is possible only by that Lord Himself. But that Lord shiva who is praised as the Asutosha, the fast pleased, accept this offering to His pleasing as a fragrant flower nice for His feet, guiding through this effort of offering. Salutations to His Feet, the ultimate goal.
shiva the name of the Lord is a mantra. It is a part of the very holy mantra of shaivam The Holy Five Letters. mantra means powerful word. The mantras are revealed to and through the sages in their matured spiritual state to the entire world. These mantras may or may not be associated directly to one particular language. At times they get interpreted in the languages. The name shiva and The Holy Five Letters are accepted as they are in different languages.
In saMskR^itam the word shiva means auspicious, prosperous (maN^gaLam). The Lord who is called pashupati, Asutosha being the Supreme that can not be measured by the thoughts, appears to the one who worships as the God graceful, blissful and nurturing. Its auspicious and graceful forms and names are invoked by the worshiper for the upliftment of oneself.
In thamiz it refers to shiva - civappu - chemporuL meaning the Perfect Being. The God staying in a state blissful, enjoying in Its Own Self eternally, without any flaws is the Supreme Lord shiva. The Perfection is the completeness - there is nothing external that is required to make the Self blissful. In this context it would be worthwhile to contemplate on the mantra shivatarAya.
shiva lingam is the holy symbol of Lord shiva that is considered quite sacred and worshipped with devotion by the devotees. The sanskrit word li.ngam means symbol, so shiva lingam means symbol of shiva. It is considered the foremost sacred symbol for shaivaites and has been worshiped for ages. The purANas like shiva mahA purANam discuss about the superiority of li.nga worship. (1) (The Indus valley excavation is an example for the presence of this worship in olden times.)
Once the god of creation brahma and the god of protection mahA vishNu entered in an argument on deciding who is greater. When those two great gods were fighting between themselves, the Greatest of all Lord shiva who is formless and transcends everything appeared as a pillar of flame. God told brahma and vishNu that whoever finds the head or the foot of His flame form would be considered greater. brahmA took the form of swan ( ha.msam ) and set out to reach the top of the Fire. vishNu became a wild pig to see the foot of the Fire. Where are the limits for the infinite God ? They could not succeed in spite of their heavy effort. They realized their mistake and the peerless greatness of Lord shiva. The God who can never be reached by ego appears as the form of love to those who surrender to Him. Lord shiva appeared in the form of shiva li.ngam (which is the shape of flame) for their benefit. They worshiped that oldest form of Him and got blessed. The God who came to bless them from the Flame, from the li.ngam is known as li.ngodbhava (2). This incident is depicted in shiva mahA purANam (1) and many other scriptures.
As the God stood as pillar of flame, the natural adornment for the Lord is Holy Ash. (As ash would be found on the surface of the fire). As the God stood as the Luminat Flame that stood up the shiva sahasranAma hails God as Urdva retas and the shiva aShtottara as hiraNya retas. The hymn that starts nidhana pataye namaH, refers to many similarities of Flame and shivalinga.
God is formless, attributeless and omnipresent. This state is called arUpa (formless). For the benefit of the pashus, He took the form of shiva li.ngam which is neither form nor formless but is a symbol. This symbol of Him is called arUparUpam (formless form). He took many forms out of His mercy to bless all, which are called rUpams. (2). shaivam worships the God in all these three states. The oldest form that the formless God took namely the shiva li.ngam is called sadAshiva mUrtam and is worshipped in the altar of His abodes (temples). The forms that He later took which are called mAhEshwara mUrtam are worshipped in the outer circles in a temple.
This shiva li.nga worship is superior because it makes the worship simple because of the form while maintaining the truth that God is not having any definite form. There are a lot more marvelous principles behind the shiva li.nga worship which could be found in detail in standard scriptures.
Saiva Nayanar
1. Sundaramurthi Nayanar
2. Tiru Neelakanta Nayanar
3. Iyarpahai Nayanar
4. Ilayankudi Mara Nayanar
5. Maiporul Nayanar
6. Viralminda Nayanar
7. Amaraneedi Nayanar
8. Eripatha Nayanar
9. Enadinatha Nayanar
10. Kannappa Nayanar
11. Kungiliya Kalaya Nayanar
12. Manakanchara Nayanar
13. Arivattaya Nayanar
14. Anaya Nayanar
15. Murthi Nayanar
16. Muruga Nayanar
17. Rudra Pasupathi Nayanar
18. Tiru Nalai Povar Nayanar
19. Tiru Kurippu Thonda Nayanar
20. Chandesvara Nayanar
21. Tiru-Navukkarasar Nayanar
22. Kulacchirai Nayanar
23. Perumizhalai Kurumba Nayanar
24. Karaikal Ammaiyar
25. Appuddi Nayanar
26. Tiruneelanakka Nayanar
27. Nami Nandi Adigal
28. Tiru Jnana Sambandar
29. Eyarkon Kalikama Nayanar
30. Tiru Mula Nayanar
31. Dandi Adigal Nayanar
32. Murkha Nayanar
33. Somasira Nayanar
34. Sakkiya Nayanar
35. Sirappuli Nayanar
36. Siruthonda Nayanar
37. Cheraman Perumal Nayanar
38. Gananatha Nayanar
39. Kootruva Nayanar
40. Pugal Chola Nayanar
41. Narasinga Muniyaraiyar
42. Adipattha Nayanar
43. Kalikamba Nayanar
44. Kalia Nayanar
45. Satti Nayanar
46. Aiyadigal Kadavarkon Nayanar
47. Kanampulla Nayanar
48. Kari Nayanar
49. Ninra Seer Nedumara Nayanar
50. Mangayarkarasiyar
51. Vayilar Nayanar
52. Munaiyaduvar Nayanar
53. Kazharsinga Nayanar
54. Seruthunai Nayanar
55. Idangazhi Nayanar
56. Pugazh Tunai Nayanar
57. Kotpuli Nayanar
58. Pusalar Nayanar
59. Nesa Nayanar
60. Kochengat Chola Nayanar
61. Tiru Neelakanta Yazhpanar
62. Sadaya Nayanar
63. Isaijnaniyar
Tamil thiru villakal
2. Tiru Neelakanta Nayanar
3. Iyarpahai Nayanar
4. Ilayankudi Mara Nayanar
5. Maiporul Nayanar
6. Viralminda Nayanar
7. Amaraneedi Nayanar
8. Eripatha Nayanar
9. Enadinatha Nayanar
10. Kannappa Nayanar
11. Kungiliya Kalaya Nayanar
12. Manakanchara Nayanar
13. Arivattaya Nayanar
14. Anaya Nayanar
15. Murthi Nayanar
16. Muruga Nayanar
17. Rudra Pasupathi Nayanar
18. Tiru Nalai Povar Nayanar
19. Tiru Kurippu Thonda Nayanar
20. Chandesvara Nayanar
21. Tiru-Navukkarasar Nayanar
22. Kulacchirai Nayanar
23. Perumizhalai Kurumba Nayanar
24. Karaikal Ammaiyar
25. Appuddi Nayanar
26. Tiruneelanakka Nayanar
27. Nami Nandi Adigal
28. Tiru Jnana Sambandar
29. Eyarkon Kalikama Nayanar
30. Tiru Mula Nayanar
31. Dandi Adigal Nayanar
32. Murkha Nayanar
33. Somasira Nayanar
34. Sakkiya Nayanar
35. Sirappuli Nayanar
36. Siruthonda Nayanar
37. Cheraman Perumal Nayanar
38. Gananatha Nayanar
39. Kootruva Nayanar
40. Pugal Chola Nayanar
41. Narasinga Muniyaraiyar
42. Adipattha Nayanar
43. Kalikamba Nayanar
44. Kalia Nayanar
45. Satti Nayanar
46. Aiyadigal Kadavarkon Nayanar
47. Kanampulla Nayanar
48. Kari Nayanar
49. Ninra Seer Nedumara Nayanar
50. Mangayarkarasiyar
51. Vayilar Nayanar
52. Munaiyaduvar Nayanar
53. Kazharsinga Nayanar
54. Seruthunai Nayanar
55. Idangazhi Nayanar
56. Pugazh Tunai Nayanar
57. Kotpuli Nayanar
58. Pusalar Nayanar
59. Nesa Nayanar
60. Kochengat Chola Nayanar
61. Tiru Neelakanta Yazhpanar
62. Sadaya Nayanar
63. Isaijnaniyar
Tamil thiru villakal
1. January 1, 2011 Margazhi 17, Vikruthi Saturday English New Year
2. January 15, 2011 Thai 1, Vikruthi Saturday Tamil New Year, Pongal Festival
3. January 16, 2011 Thai 2, Vikruthi Sunday Thiruvalluvar Day
4. January 17, 2011 Thai 3, Vikruthi Monday Farmer's Festival
5. April 14, 2011 Chithrai 1,Official Tamil New Year
6. April 16, 2011 Chithrai 3, Kara Saturday Mahaveera Varthana Bagavan Jayanthi
7. August 21, 2011 Aavani 4, Kara Sunday Sri Krishna Jayanthi
8. September 1, 2011 Aavani 15, Kara Thursday Sri Vinayagar Sathurthi
9. October 5, 2011 Puratsai 18, Kara Wednesday Sarasvathi Pooja, Aytha Pooja
10. October 6, 2011 Puratasi 19, Kara Thursday Vijayathasami
11. October 26, 2011 Aippasi 9, Kara Wednesday Deepavali (Diwali)
12. December 6, 2011 Karthigai 20, Kara Tuesday Moharam
PONGAL
Pongal is one of the major festivals for Tamils and often referred to as "thamizhar thirunaaL". At the beginning of the tamil month "thai" it is celebrated for three days: first day devoted to getting rid of old things (Bhogi), second day involves main Pongal celebrations followed by Maattu Pongal on the third day. Many extend these to a fourth day called "kannip pongal" or "kaaNum pongal" when youngers go around and seek the blessings of the elders. On Bhogi day, a bon fire is lit with all the agricultural and household wastes.
On the Pongal day, Sun makes its moves towards north/enters Makara raasi (the zodiac sign of Capricorn the goat) and marks the beginning of Uttaraayana punyakaalam. Traditionally, this period is considered an auspicious time and the veteran Bhishma of Mahabharata chose to die during this period. After he fell to the arrows of Arjuna Bhishma used his boon to choose the time of his death. He waited on a bed of arrows to depart from this world only during this period. It is believed that those who die in this period have no rebirth.
To formers Pongal marks the beginning of the harvesting season. People take oil bath early in the morning and wear new clothes. Sweet pongal and special sweets are prepared for the occasion. Freshly cut Sugarcane is used for decoratation and later consumption by all.
Mattu Pongal is a celebration by the agrarian community that thankfully acknowledges the participation of the animals mainly bulls in ploughing the fields and assisting the farmers in raising a good crop. The animals are decorated and are included in some races, both to entertain and to boost their endurance capacity. The festival is known as "Jallikattu". These races include cock fights, bull fights and ram fights. "Thiruvalluvar Day" is celebrated on this Mattu Pongal day when Tamilnadu Govt announces awards for best tamil literary works.
Thai Poosam
Kartikeya, the son of Shiva and Parvati is worshipped in Tamil Nadu on Thai Pusam. Special Poojas and festivities take place on this Poosam day in the Murugan Temples of Palani, Thiruttani,... and also at the Vandiyur Mariamman Temple (near Madurai). Many temples have the boat festival (theppa utsavam) on this day when the Lord would be coming out over a float on the temple pond.
As a mark of dedication and respect, people engage in "fire walk"- walk over a path of burning coal. They exit the path miraculously without being scorched, signifying KartikeyaÕs everlasting protection. A webpage on thaipoosam
Maasi Maham
Celebrated on the Makam day in the tamil month of Maasi. On this day, the deities are taken around in procession to the nearby rivers/tanks/sea for bath. It is an important festival day for Lord Muruga. Once in 12 years, the Maham festival is celebrated in a grand manner (known as Mahamaham) in Kumbakonam.
Maha Sivarathri
Maha Sivarathri is a festival day devoted to Lord Siva, celebrated on the amavaasai day in the month of Maasi. Sivaratri also signifies the end of winter and the arrival of spring. Unlike each Hindu festival which begins with the ritualistic worship of the presiding deity followed by a feast, Sivaratri differs in that one dedicates the entire day of twenty-four hours to the worship of Lord Siva. In the evening people generally go to a nearby temple where in the company of many others they listen to recitals of the legends and their meanings. They do not sleep that night, but remain awake. The worship continues throughout the night either by way of chanting the Rudram, singing in eulogy of Lord Siva or/and listening to religious discourses interpreting the legends associated with the festival. Mahasivarathri is celebrated in a grand scale in the temples of Madurai and Rameswaram. In the rituals, leaves of a forest tree Bilva (Aegle marmelos/wood apple) are traditionally used in the services.
Sri Rama Navami
Sri Rama Navami as a festival marks the birth of Lord Rama but is celebrated and worshipped in the form of re-creating the wedding between Lord Rama and Sita by the Hindus seeking well being of all people. Such community celebrations are held in not only Rama temples but also in many other temples too. Usually such ritualistic wedding celebration in homes is quite uncommon. The ritual of Rama's wedding is concluded with prasadam of 'vada pappu' (soaked lentil) and panakam (sherbat made of jaggery dissolved in water to which pepper powder and cardamom powder are added).
Panguni Uthiram
Panguni Uthiram is celebrated as the Wedding day for the Gods/Celestial couples in all temples of Tamilnadu. It is celebrated over a 10-day period in many Murugan Temples. Inscriptions indicate existence of these celebrations as early as that of the Chola King Rajaraja Chola.
Chithirai puthandu
As the name indicates, this day marks the beginning of the Tamil New Year (and the tamil month Chithirai).
Baisakhi
The Hindu Solar New Year Day. People bathe in rivers and go to temples to offer puja (worship). Baisakhi is of special significance to the Sikhs. On this day in 1699, Guru Gobind Singh organised them into the 'Khalsa', brotherhood of man. In Punjab, farmers start harvesting on this day with great fanfare. Villagers perform the 'Bhangra' folk-dance.
Chitra Pournami
The pournami day in the tamil month of Chitrai is celebrated in a grand manner for nearly a week ("chithirath thiruvizha") in Madurai Temples. Located 21 kms northwest of Madurai is a Vishnu temple called Azhagar Temple. Here 'Vishnu' presides as Meenakshi's brother 'Kallazhagar'. During the Chitrai festival when the celestial marriage of Meenakshi to Sundareswarar is celebrated, Azhagar travels to Madurai. A gold processional icon called the Sundararajar is carried by devotees in procession from Azhagar Kovil to Madurai for wedding ritual. Hundreds of special Mandapas are erected all along the route to Madurai to welcome Kallazhagar. According to the Legend, Kallazhagar arrived late for the marriage of his sister Meenakshi. Taking note that the marriage has already taken place, he plunges into the river Vaigai and walks through to nearby Vandiyur. Adults and children join together in spraying water at Lord Kallazhagar as he walks towards the river bank of Vaigai in total disappointment. The whole city of Madurai takes on a festive mood for this whole week.
In Srivilliputhur, Chaitrotsavam festival takes place for 9 days. On the day of chitra pournami Andal in Sesha Vahanam and Rangamannar in Kudurai Vahanam stop near a stream on the way to Thiruvannamalai where the "Vayyali" function takes place.
Vaikasi Visakam
The pournami day of the tamil month Vaikasi is celebrated in grand manner in Murugan Temples (Palani, Thiruchendoor,...) when large number of people go to the temple carrying "Kavadi". Valli Kalyanam is celebrated in Murugan Temples on Vaikaasi Visaakam day.
Vaikasi Visakam also marks the birthday of Alwar Saint Nammalwar and this is celebrated in Kancheepuram Varadaraja Perumal Temple as "Garuda utcavam". Lord Varadaraja is taken in a Garuda vahana to Nammalwar sannadhi for blessing of the latter.
Aadi pandigai
Aadi perukkuCelebrated on the 18th day of the tamil month Aadi in Kaveri River basin districts of Tanjore and Trichi when the water level in the river rises significantly high. Prayers are made and offerings given to Goddess Kaveri deities made out of clays.
Aadi amaavaasai
Aadi pooram
Andal, the incarnation of Mother Earth, Bhoodevi, is one of the twelve Alwars, great devotees of Vishnu. "Aadi Pooram" and "Aani Thirumanjanam" are important festivals to Andal.
Krishna Jayanthi/Gokulashtami
The birth of Lord Krishna, the incarnation of Vishnu in the Dwapar Yuga, is celebrated all over India as Krishna Janmashtami. This day is marked by religious festivity and devotion. Lord Krishna or "He who is all-attractive", descended on this earth to subdue the rakshasas ruthlessly and save mankind from all evils. He is regarded as the epitome of transcendental qualities which made him the most loved one.
The modern day festivity recreates the birth of the Lord. It is celebrated with utmost gaiety and fervor in Mathura and Brindavan. The towns are colorfully decorated wearing a festive look. The main temple at Mathura and Brindavan are bedecked with flowers and Lord Krishna is clothed in jewellery. The rituals begin ahead of time in the evening and culminate at midnight, the time of Krishna's birth. A crawling image of Krishna is cradled amidst singing of bhajans and chantings of Hare Rama Hare Krishna.
In South India, Janmashtami or Gokulashtami, as it is called, is celebrated with prayers, devotional renditions and offering of fruits and special prasadams to Lord Krishna. People usually observe fast on this day. In the houses, mango leaves are tied to the doorways to mark the auspicious occasion. Colorful floral designs are drawn on the front yard. Inside the house, a small woodden mandapam is erected and decorated with flowers and plantain leaves. An icon of a crawling Krishna in a silver cradle or leaf is placed in the mandapam. In some houses, a typical setting of Gokulam is arranged with mud images of Devaki, Vasudeva with little Krishna perched in a basketon his head, a cow, besides other things related to Krishna's legends. Small foot marks produced by impressions with rice powder mixed with water are believed to symbolically recreate the coming of Krishna into peoples' homes.
Janmashtami
The birth anniversary of Lord Krishna, the incarnation of Vishnu and the author of the Bhagavad Gita (Song Celestial), is observed all over. It is celebrated with special eclat at Mathura and Brindavan where Lord Krishna spent his childhood. Night-long prayers are offered and religious hymns are sung in temples. Scenes are enacted from Lord Krishna's early life.
Ganesha Chaturthi
Ganesha, the elephant-headed son of Shiva and Parvati is widely worshipped as the munificent god of wisdom. Ganesh Chaturthi is a festival in his honour and is celebrated in the states of Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. Ganesha (also called Ganapati /Vighneshvara or Vighnahartaa) is the Lord of and destroyer of obstacles. People mostly worship Him asking for siddhi, success in undertakings, and buddhi, intelligence. He is worshipped before any venture is started. He is also the God of education, knowledge and wisdom, literature, and the fine arts.
Throughout India the festival is celebrated with much enthusiasm and devotion, even lasting for nearly 10 days in Maharashtra and Andhra pradesh. During long periods of anti-British rule protests and freedom struggle of the 19th Century, more and more people become unduly religious, particularly in Maharashtra. This lead to development of religious events such as Ganesha Chaturthi as a major community event. To appreciate this occasion, one must go to Mumbai where preparations begin months in advance. Images of Ganesha are installed within homes as well as in places of assembly. Elaborate arrangements are made for lighting and decoration and Ganesha is fervently worshipped for about 7-10 days. On the day of the Chaturthi, i.e. the last of the days dedicated to the elephant-headed god, thousands of processions converge on the beaches of Mumbai to immerse the holy idols in the sea. This immersion is accompanied by drum beats, devotional songs and dancing.
Dasara/Navarathi, Saraswathi Pooja, Vijaya Dhasami
This is among the most auspicious days in the Hindu calendar and comes as the finale of the nine-day festival, Navaraatri. this festival of victory is preceded by worship of Saraswati the Goddess of Learning and of Durgaa the Goddess of Strength. Grand processions of all Gods and goddesses are taken out in every town and village on this day, signifying the victory of the forces of righteousness over those of wickedness.
Vijaya Dashami is preceded by the Aayudha Pooja on the Mahaanavami day, when not only the weapons are worshipped by the warriors, but the blacksmith, the potter, the carpenter, the tailor, the mason, the typist, the musician, the artist and every type of technical worker - worships his instruments and tools. Buses, trucks and huge machines in factories are all decorated and worshipped
Dussehra and Durga Puja
Among the most popular of all festivals, it symbolises the triumph of good over evil. Every region observes this 10-day festival in a special way. In the North, 'Ram Lila' recitations and music recall the life of the legendary hero, Rama. Large fire cracker--stuffed effigies of Ravana, symbolising evil, explode to the cheers of thousands of spectators. In Kulu against the backdrop of snow-covered mountains, villagers dressed in their colourful best assemble to take out processions of local deities accompanied by music on pipes and drums. In Karnataka, Dussehra is celebrated with magnificent pomp and pageantry. In Bengal and the East, it is called 'Durga Puja'. Images of Goddess Durga are worshipped for four days and, on the last day, taken out in a procession and immersed in a river or the sea.
Vijayadashmi or Dussera
Vijayadashmi or Dussera, the day of victory, after nine days of battle is celebrated by all Hindu families. Dussera is one of the four auspicious days of the year. On the same day, Rama, an avatar of Vishnu fought Ravana, a ten headed demon and restored dharma (righteousness ) on earth. In rural India, children returned to school on Vijayadashmi which is also dedicated to Saraswati. On this day their teachers would draw the symbol of Saraswati, the Goddess of Learning on their slates. On Vijayadashmi, people worship weapons, tools and implements of their trade. In the second half of Ashwin, Diwali lights up the sky, the festival of lights that celebrates the return of Rama and his coronation in Ayodhya. People light lamps and adorn doorways with flower garlands to welcome Rama, Sita and Lakshmana home after fourteen years of exile. Dhanteras follows Diwali when wealth in worshipped. Narakchaturdashi is a festival that honours the heroic Krishna who rescued 16,000 princesses from Naraka's bondage.
Deepavali /Diwali
Deepavali, the festival of lights, comes close on the heels of Dasara. It is a festival that marks the victory of good over evil. Deepavali means a "row of lights", and it brings along with it glowing happiness and the touch of sparklers all around. In India, Deepavali is synonymous with the nightly bursting of fire- crackers and the beautiful decoration of the houses with earthenware lamps which is a feast for the eyes.
In South India, Deepavali celebrations begin at dawn as early as around three in the morning. The family members are given an oil massage, followed by aarti and then the children burst crackers to mark the joyous day. New clothes and exchange of gifts goes without saying.
On Deepavali day, everywhere in India, at dusk when darkness unfolds itself, you can see a spectacular illumination of tiny flickering lamps adorning in rows - at homes, buildings and streets. And watch out as you look up to the sky ! Hundreds of fire crackers can be seen glowing and then bursting as though it was a battle of glows and sparks in the skies.
Deepavali is incomplete without the multi-colored and noisy fire crackers. From simple colored sparklers, pencils, flower pots, ground chakras (wheels), Vishnu chakras, rockets to the long ladi / garland crackers, you have a wide range to choose from.
The festival of lights is one of the most beautiful of Indian festivals. It comes 21 days after Dussehra and celebrates the return of Rama to Ayodhya after his 14-year exile. Countless flickering oil lamps and lights are lit in houses all over the country making it a night of enchantment. Worship of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and fireworks and festivities are an essential part of the occasion.
TAMIL PALLIKUDDAM
2. January 15, 2011 Thai 1, Vikruthi Saturday Tamil New Year, Pongal Festival
3. January 16, 2011 Thai 2, Vikruthi Sunday Thiruvalluvar Day
4. January 17, 2011 Thai 3, Vikruthi Monday Farmer's Festival
5. April 14, 2011 Chithrai 1,Official Tamil New Year
6. April 16, 2011 Chithrai 3, Kara Saturday Mahaveera Varthana Bagavan Jayanthi
7. August 21, 2011 Aavani 4, Kara Sunday Sri Krishna Jayanthi
8. September 1, 2011 Aavani 15, Kara Thursday Sri Vinayagar Sathurthi
9. October 5, 2011 Puratsai 18, Kara Wednesday Sarasvathi Pooja, Aytha Pooja
10. October 6, 2011 Puratasi 19, Kara Thursday Vijayathasami
11. October 26, 2011 Aippasi 9, Kara Wednesday Deepavali (Diwali)
12. December 6, 2011 Karthigai 20, Kara Tuesday Moharam
PONGAL
Pongal is one of the major festivals for Tamils and often referred to as "thamizhar thirunaaL". At the beginning of the tamil month "thai" it is celebrated for three days: first day devoted to getting rid of old things (Bhogi), second day involves main Pongal celebrations followed by Maattu Pongal on the third day. Many extend these to a fourth day called "kannip pongal" or "kaaNum pongal" when youngers go around and seek the blessings of the elders. On Bhogi day, a bon fire is lit with all the agricultural and household wastes.
On the Pongal day, Sun makes its moves towards north/enters Makara raasi (the zodiac sign of Capricorn the goat) and marks the beginning of Uttaraayana punyakaalam. Traditionally, this period is considered an auspicious time and the veteran Bhishma of Mahabharata chose to die during this period. After he fell to the arrows of Arjuna Bhishma used his boon to choose the time of his death. He waited on a bed of arrows to depart from this world only during this period. It is believed that those who die in this period have no rebirth.
To formers Pongal marks the beginning of the harvesting season. People take oil bath early in the morning and wear new clothes. Sweet pongal and special sweets are prepared for the occasion. Freshly cut Sugarcane is used for decoratation and later consumption by all.
Mattu Pongal is a celebration by the agrarian community that thankfully acknowledges the participation of the animals mainly bulls in ploughing the fields and assisting the farmers in raising a good crop. The animals are decorated and are included in some races, both to entertain and to boost their endurance capacity. The festival is known as "Jallikattu". These races include cock fights, bull fights and ram fights. "Thiruvalluvar Day" is celebrated on this Mattu Pongal day when Tamilnadu Govt announces awards for best tamil literary works.
Thai Poosam
Kartikeya, the son of Shiva and Parvati is worshipped in Tamil Nadu on Thai Pusam. Special Poojas and festivities take place on this Poosam day in the Murugan Temples of Palani, Thiruttani,... and also at the Vandiyur Mariamman Temple (near Madurai). Many temples have the boat festival (theppa utsavam) on this day when the Lord would be coming out over a float on the temple pond.
As a mark of dedication and respect, people engage in "fire walk"- walk over a path of burning coal. They exit the path miraculously without being scorched, signifying KartikeyaÕs everlasting protection. A webpage on thaipoosam
Maasi Maham
Celebrated on the Makam day in the tamil month of Maasi. On this day, the deities are taken around in procession to the nearby rivers/tanks/sea for bath. It is an important festival day for Lord Muruga. Once in 12 years, the Maham festival is celebrated in a grand manner (known as Mahamaham) in Kumbakonam.
Maha Sivarathri
Maha Sivarathri is a festival day devoted to Lord Siva, celebrated on the amavaasai day in the month of Maasi. Sivaratri also signifies the end of winter and the arrival of spring. Unlike each Hindu festival which begins with the ritualistic worship of the presiding deity followed by a feast, Sivaratri differs in that one dedicates the entire day of twenty-four hours to the worship of Lord Siva. In the evening people generally go to a nearby temple where in the company of many others they listen to recitals of the legends and their meanings. They do not sleep that night, but remain awake. The worship continues throughout the night either by way of chanting the Rudram, singing in eulogy of Lord Siva or/and listening to religious discourses interpreting the legends associated with the festival. Mahasivarathri is celebrated in a grand scale in the temples of Madurai and Rameswaram. In the rituals, leaves of a forest tree Bilva (Aegle marmelos/wood apple) are traditionally used in the services.
Sri Rama Navami
Sri Rama Navami as a festival marks the birth of Lord Rama but is celebrated and worshipped in the form of re-creating the wedding between Lord Rama and Sita by the Hindus seeking well being of all people. Such community celebrations are held in not only Rama temples but also in many other temples too. Usually such ritualistic wedding celebration in homes is quite uncommon. The ritual of Rama's wedding is concluded with prasadam of 'vada pappu' (soaked lentil) and panakam (sherbat made of jaggery dissolved in water to which pepper powder and cardamom powder are added).
Panguni Uthiram
Panguni Uthiram is celebrated as the Wedding day for the Gods/Celestial couples in all temples of Tamilnadu. It is celebrated over a 10-day period in many Murugan Temples. Inscriptions indicate existence of these celebrations as early as that of the Chola King Rajaraja Chola.
Chithirai puthandu
As the name indicates, this day marks the beginning of the Tamil New Year (and the tamil month Chithirai).
Baisakhi
The Hindu Solar New Year Day. People bathe in rivers and go to temples to offer puja (worship). Baisakhi is of special significance to the Sikhs. On this day in 1699, Guru Gobind Singh organised them into the 'Khalsa', brotherhood of man. In Punjab, farmers start harvesting on this day with great fanfare. Villagers perform the 'Bhangra' folk-dance.
Chitra Pournami
The pournami day in the tamil month of Chitrai is celebrated in a grand manner for nearly a week ("chithirath thiruvizha") in Madurai Temples. Located 21 kms northwest of Madurai is a Vishnu temple called Azhagar Temple. Here 'Vishnu' presides as Meenakshi's brother 'Kallazhagar'. During the Chitrai festival when the celestial marriage of Meenakshi to Sundareswarar is celebrated, Azhagar travels to Madurai. A gold processional icon called the Sundararajar is carried by devotees in procession from Azhagar Kovil to Madurai for wedding ritual. Hundreds of special Mandapas are erected all along the route to Madurai to welcome Kallazhagar. According to the Legend, Kallazhagar arrived late for the marriage of his sister Meenakshi. Taking note that the marriage has already taken place, he plunges into the river Vaigai and walks through to nearby Vandiyur. Adults and children join together in spraying water at Lord Kallazhagar as he walks towards the river bank of Vaigai in total disappointment. The whole city of Madurai takes on a festive mood for this whole week.
In Srivilliputhur, Chaitrotsavam festival takes place for 9 days. On the day of chitra pournami Andal in Sesha Vahanam and Rangamannar in Kudurai Vahanam stop near a stream on the way to Thiruvannamalai where the "Vayyali" function takes place.
Vaikasi Visakam
The pournami day of the tamil month Vaikasi is celebrated in grand manner in Murugan Temples (Palani, Thiruchendoor,...) when large number of people go to the temple carrying "Kavadi". Valli Kalyanam is celebrated in Murugan Temples on Vaikaasi Visaakam day.
Vaikasi Visakam also marks the birthday of Alwar Saint Nammalwar and this is celebrated in Kancheepuram Varadaraja Perumal Temple as "Garuda utcavam". Lord Varadaraja is taken in a Garuda vahana to Nammalwar sannadhi for blessing of the latter.
Aadi pandigai
Aadi perukkuCelebrated on the 18th day of the tamil month Aadi in Kaveri River basin districts of Tanjore and Trichi when the water level in the river rises significantly high. Prayers are made and offerings given to Goddess Kaveri deities made out of clays.
Aadi amaavaasai
Aadi pooram
Andal, the incarnation of Mother Earth, Bhoodevi, is one of the twelve Alwars, great devotees of Vishnu. "Aadi Pooram" and "Aani Thirumanjanam" are important festivals to Andal.
Krishna Jayanthi/Gokulashtami
The birth of Lord Krishna, the incarnation of Vishnu in the Dwapar Yuga, is celebrated all over India as Krishna Janmashtami. This day is marked by religious festivity and devotion. Lord Krishna or "He who is all-attractive", descended on this earth to subdue the rakshasas ruthlessly and save mankind from all evils. He is regarded as the epitome of transcendental qualities which made him the most loved one.
The modern day festivity recreates the birth of the Lord. It is celebrated with utmost gaiety and fervor in Mathura and Brindavan. The towns are colorfully decorated wearing a festive look. The main temple at Mathura and Brindavan are bedecked with flowers and Lord Krishna is clothed in jewellery. The rituals begin ahead of time in the evening and culminate at midnight, the time of Krishna's birth. A crawling image of Krishna is cradled amidst singing of bhajans and chantings of Hare Rama Hare Krishna.
In South India, Janmashtami or Gokulashtami, as it is called, is celebrated with prayers, devotional renditions and offering of fruits and special prasadams to Lord Krishna. People usually observe fast on this day. In the houses, mango leaves are tied to the doorways to mark the auspicious occasion. Colorful floral designs are drawn on the front yard. Inside the house, a small woodden mandapam is erected and decorated with flowers and plantain leaves. An icon of a crawling Krishna in a silver cradle or leaf is placed in the mandapam. In some houses, a typical setting of Gokulam is arranged with mud images of Devaki, Vasudeva with little Krishna perched in a basketon his head, a cow, besides other things related to Krishna's legends. Small foot marks produced by impressions with rice powder mixed with water are believed to symbolically recreate the coming of Krishna into peoples' homes.
Janmashtami
The birth anniversary of Lord Krishna, the incarnation of Vishnu and the author of the Bhagavad Gita (Song Celestial), is observed all over. It is celebrated with special eclat at Mathura and Brindavan where Lord Krishna spent his childhood. Night-long prayers are offered and religious hymns are sung in temples. Scenes are enacted from Lord Krishna's early life.
Ganesha Chaturthi
Ganesha, the elephant-headed son of Shiva and Parvati is widely worshipped as the munificent god of wisdom. Ganesh Chaturthi is a festival in his honour and is celebrated in the states of Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. Ganesha (also called Ganapati /Vighneshvara or Vighnahartaa) is the Lord of and destroyer of obstacles. People mostly worship Him asking for siddhi, success in undertakings, and buddhi, intelligence. He is worshipped before any venture is started. He is also the God of education, knowledge and wisdom, literature, and the fine arts.
Throughout India the festival is celebrated with much enthusiasm and devotion, even lasting for nearly 10 days in Maharashtra and Andhra pradesh. During long periods of anti-British rule protests and freedom struggle of the 19th Century, more and more people become unduly religious, particularly in Maharashtra. This lead to development of religious events such as Ganesha Chaturthi as a major community event. To appreciate this occasion, one must go to Mumbai where preparations begin months in advance. Images of Ganesha are installed within homes as well as in places of assembly. Elaborate arrangements are made for lighting and decoration and Ganesha is fervently worshipped for about 7-10 days. On the day of the Chaturthi, i.e. the last of the days dedicated to the elephant-headed god, thousands of processions converge on the beaches of Mumbai to immerse the holy idols in the sea. This immersion is accompanied by drum beats, devotional songs and dancing.
Dasara/Navarathi, Saraswathi Pooja, Vijaya Dhasami
This is among the most auspicious days in the Hindu calendar and comes as the finale of the nine-day festival, Navaraatri. this festival of victory is preceded by worship of Saraswati the Goddess of Learning and of Durgaa the Goddess of Strength. Grand processions of all Gods and goddesses are taken out in every town and village on this day, signifying the victory of the forces of righteousness over those of wickedness.
Vijaya Dashami is preceded by the Aayudha Pooja on the Mahaanavami day, when not only the weapons are worshipped by the warriors, but the blacksmith, the potter, the carpenter, the tailor, the mason, the typist, the musician, the artist and every type of technical worker - worships his instruments and tools. Buses, trucks and huge machines in factories are all decorated and worshipped
Dussehra and Durga Puja
Among the most popular of all festivals, it symbolises the triumph of good over evil. Every region observes this 10-day festival in a special way. In the North, 'Ram Lila' recitations and music recall the life of the legendary hero, Rama. Large fire cracker--stuffed effigies of Ravana, symbolising evil, explode to the cheers of thousands of spectators. In Kulu against the backdrop of snow-covered mountains, villagers dressed in their colourful best assemble to take out processions of local deities accompanied by music on pipes and drums. In Karnataka, Dussehra is celebrated with magnificent pomp and pageantry. In Bengal and the East, it is called 'Durga Puja'. Images of Goddess Durga are worshipped for four days and, on the last day, taken out in a procession and immersed in a river or the sea.
Vijayadashmi or Dussera
Vijayadashmi or Dussera, the day of victory, after nine days of battle is celebrated by all Hindu families. Dussera is one of the four auspicious days of the year. On the same day, Rama, an avatar of Vishnu fought Ravana, a ten headed demon and restored dharma (righteousness ) on earth. In rural India, children returned to school on Vijayadashmi which is also dedicated to Saraswati. On this day their teachers would draw the symbol of Saraswati, the Goddess of Learning on their slates. On Vijayadashmi, people worship weapons, tools and implements of their trade. In the second half of Ashwin, Diwali lights up the sky, the festival of lights that celebrates the return of Rama and his coronation in Ayodhya. People light lamps and adorn doorways with flower garlands to welcome Rama, Sita and Lakshmana home after fourteen years of exile. Dhanteras follows Diwali when wealth in worshipped. Narakchaturdashi is a festival that honours the heroic Krishna who rescued 16,000 princesses from Naraka's bondage.
Deepavali /Diwali
Deepavali, the festival of lights, comes close on the heels of Dasara. It is a festival that marks the victory of good over evil. Deepavali means a "row of lights", and it brings along with it glowing happiness and the touch of sparklers all around. In India, Deepavali is synonymous with the nightly bursting of fire- crackers and the beautiful decoration of the houses with earthenware lamps which is a feast for the eyes.
In South India, Deepavali celebrations begin at dawn as early as around three in the morning. The family members are given an oil massage, followed by aarti and then the children burst crackers to mark the joyous day. New clothes and exchange of gifts goes without saying.
On Deepavali day, everywhere in India, at dusk when darkness unfolds itself, you can see a spectacular illumination of tiny flickering lamps adorning in rows - at homes, buildings and streets. And watch out as you look up to the sky ! Hundreds of fire crackers can be seen glowing and then bursting as though it was a battle of glows and sparks in the skies.
Deepavali is incomplete without the multi-colored and noisy fire crackers. From simple colored sparklers, pencils, flower pots, ground chakras (wheels), Vishnu chakras, rockets to the long ladi / garland crackers, you have a wide range to choose from.
The festival of lights is one of the most beautiful of Indian festivals. It comes 21 days after Dussehra and celebrates the return of Rama to Ayodhya after his 14-year exile. Countless flickering oil lamps and lights are lit in houses all over the country making it a night of enchantment. Worship of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and fireworks and festivities are an essential part of the occasion.
TAMIL PALLIKUDDAM
West London Tamil School (WLTS)
History Of the School
West London Tamil School (WLTS) is one of the first Tamil schools to be formed in the United Kingdom. It was founded by Mr C.J.T Thamotharam with the help of some others in 1978. Initially it provided services to the Tamil speaking people in West London. Later the school expanded its services to all communities in London to teach fine arts, mother tongue, Sports and some after school activities
The school is managed by nine Board of Governors and the Headmaster, who are the Trustees of this Institution. The Board of Governors serves the school and the community on a voluntary basis.
30th April
2011
OFAAL Examination-Practical Grade3-Diploma
7th May
2011
Commencement of Term & Registration
4th June
2011
Half Term Holiday
18th June
2011
School Photograph
25th June
2011
3rd Term Test
9th July
2011
End of Term
17th July
2011
33 rd Annual Prize Day
20th July
2011
Commencement of Summer play Scheme
23rd July
2011
Sports Day( Perivale Athletic Track)
Tamil and Fine arts class are held on
Saturdays between 9.00 am to 1.30 pm
AT
Stanhope Primary School
Mansell Road
Greenford
Middlesex
UB6 9EG
Head master: Mr M.T.Selvarajah
Telephone: 07702954491
Correspondence Address
The Secretary,244 Conway Crescent,Perivale,Greenford,UB6 8JG
Telephone: 07710266498
E-Mail : admin@wlts.org.uk
2011
OFAAL Examination-Practical Grade3-Diploma
7th May
2011
Commencement of Term & Registration
4th June
2011
Half Term Holiday
18th June
2011
School Photograph
25th June
2011
3rd Term Test
9th July
2011
End of Term
17th July
2011
33 rd Annual Prize Day
20th July
2011
Commencement of Summer play Scheme
23rd July
2011
Sports Day( Perivale Athletic Track)
Tamil and Fine arts class are held on
Saturdays between 9.00 am to 1.30 pm
AT
Stanhope Primary School
Mansell Road
Greenford
Middlesex
UB6 9EG
Head master: Mr M.T.Selvarajah
Telephone: 07702954491
Correspondence Address
The Secretary,244 Conway Crescent,Perivale,Greenford,UB6 8JG
Telephone: 07710266498
E-Mail : admin@wlts.org.uk
The London Tamil Sangam
One of the oldest Tamil organisations in UK.
The London Tamil Sangam was founded in 1936 by Dr. R. K. Shanmugam Chettiar, the first finance minister of Independent India and Mr. K.T.K. Thangamani, a veteran Communist leader.
Our Sangam was visited by Gandhiji, the Godfather of India, when he came to London for the Round Table Conference.
The sangam was registered in 1960 as a limited company and subsequently became a registered charity organisation.
Sangam Opening Times
Monday 10:00 - 16:30
Tuesday 10:00 - 16:30
Wednesday 10:00 - 17:30
Thursday 10:00 - 16:30
Friday 10:00 - 16:30
Saturday 11:00 - 15:00
Open only for Luncheon club & staff meeting only
Sunday Closed
Tamil Reading Library...
The London Tamil Sangam Library is the largest Tamil Library in UK with more than 5000 Tamil books on various subjects and there are currently 312 members using the library.
The Sangam's library is well stocked with the following:
•Range of books from Astronomy to Zoology. •Fictions and non-fictions are shared at the ratio of 50-50.
•Reference books, dictionaries.
•Weekly Tamil magazines from India.
•Daily Tamil newspapers from India.
•We are trying to procure another 1000 books for the library and to expand our services by even keeping English books and academic books for the After School Club.
•We have also started a new English Library for members who wish to learn English and to give added service to our students who are in English class and in After School Club.
The London Tamil Sangam
369, High Street North
Manor Park
London, E12 6PG
United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)20 8471 7672
E-mail: admin@ltsuk.org
KINGSTON TAMIL SCHOOL
Objectives
The Tamil School was mainly formed to teach Tamil language and cultural subjects to the children who are deprived of this opportunity enabling them to learn and preserve the rich heritage of Tamils. It provides facilities such as;
•Classes in Tamil Language, Vocal music, Veena, Violin, Mirudangam, flute instruments, Bharatha Natyam dance.
•Cultural concerts & special religious days celebrations.
•Assist local authority in translation, multi-cultural programmes and community matters.
Classes are run on Saturdays 9 a.m till 1.30 p.m at Tolworth Girls’ School, Fullers Way North, Surbiton, Surrey KT6 7LQ. Students of age groups 5 to 25, mainly Tamil community and few from Gujarati and English origins use the facilities. The number of students currently enrolled with the school is around 250.
Saturday Time table 2009/10
Subject Teacher Group From To
Dance Mrs R Selvakumar Level 3 09.00 09.45
Level 4 09.46 10.30
Level 2 10.31 11.15
Level 1 11.16 12.00
Mrs K Kathigamanathan Level 2 09.00 09.45
Level 4 09.46 10.30
Level 3 10.31 11.15
Level 1 11.16 12.00
Mrs.K.Kiritharan Level 09.00 09.45
Level 09.46 10.30
Level 10.31 11.15
Level 11.16 12.00
Veena Mrs S Raguraman Level 1 09.00 09.45
Level 2 09.46 10.30
Level 4 10.31 11.15
Level 3 11.16 12.00
Violin Mr L Kothandapani Level 3/4 09.00 09.45
Level 1 09.46 10.30
Level 4/5 10.31 11.15
Level 2 11.16 12.00
Violin Mr Balasubramaniam Level 3 09.00 09.45
Level 2 09.46 10.30
Level 1 10.31 11.15
Flute Mr Gnanavarathan Level 1 09.00 09.45
Level 2 09.46 10.30
Level 3 10.31 11.15
Level 4 11.16 12.00
Miruthangam Mr P Kirupakaran Level 3 09.00 09.45
Level 2 09.46 10.30
Level 1 10.31 11.15
Mr R N Prakash Level 4 09.00 09.45
Level 3 09.46 10.30
Level 2 10.31 11.15
Level 1 11.16 12.00
Vocal Miss Y Mithirathas Level 2 09.00 09.45
Level 1 09.46 10.30
Level 4 10.31 11.15
Level 3 11.16 12.00
Mrs V Prathaban Level 3 09.00 09.45
Level 2 09.46 10.30
Level 4 10.31 11.15
Level 1 11.16 12.00
Key Board Mr.Santhorsh Level 1 09.00 09.45
Level 2 09.46 10.30
Level 3 10.31 11.15
Level 4 11.16 12.00
ASSEMBLY 12.15 12.30
Tamil Mr K Jegatheeswaran 12.30 13.45
Mr V Poopalasundram 12.30 13.45
Mrs R Ambikaipakan 12.30 13.45
Mrs S Vipulananthan 12.30 13.45
Mrs V Poopalasundram 12.30 13.45
Mrs C Varatharajah 12.30 13.45
Mrs G Kannapiran 12.30 13.45
Mrs J Thamilarasi 12.30 13.45
Mrs S Sugirtharanjan 12.30 13.45
Mrs.G.Umapathykumar 12.30 13.45
Mrs S Kiritharan 12.30 13.45
Mrs.S.Ganeshalingam 12.30 13.45
Tolworth Girl’s School,
Fullers way north,
Surbiton,
Surrey
KT6 7LQ
Telephone:
020 8399 7848
020 8949 3012
The Tamil School was mainly formed to teach Tamil language and cultural subjects to the children who are deprived of this opportunity enabling them to learn and preserve the rich heritage of Tamils. It provides facilities such as;
•Classes in Tamil Language, Vocal music, Veena, Violin, Mirudangam, flute instruments, Bharatha Natyam dance.
•Cultural concerts & special religious days celebrations.
•Assist local authority in translation, multi-cultural programmes and community matters.
Classes are run on Saturdays 9 a.m till 1.30 p.m at Tolworth Girls’ School, Fullers Way North, Surbiton, Surrey KT6 7LQ. Students of age groups 5 to 25, mainly Tamil community and few from Gujarati and English origins use the facilities. The number of students currently enrolled with the school is around 250.
Saturday Time table 2009/10
Subject Teacher Group From To
Dance Mrs R Selvakumar Level 3 09.00 09.45
Level 4 09.46 10.30
Level 2 10.31 11.15
Level 1 11.16 12.00
Mrs K Kathigamanathan Level 2 09.00 09.45
Level 4 09.46 10.30
Level 3 10.31 11.15
Level 1 11.16 12.00
Mrs.K.Kiritharan Level 09.00 09.45
Level 09.46 10.30
Level 10.31 11.15
Level 11.16 12.00
Veena Mrs S Raguraman Level 1 09.00 09.45
Level 2 09.46 10.30
Level 4 10.31 11.15
Level 3 11.16 12.00
Violin Mr L Kothandapani Level 3/4 09.00 09.45
Level 1 09.46 10.30
Level 4/5 10.31 11.15
Level 2 11.16 12.00
Violin Mr Balasubramaniam Level 3 09.00 09.45
Level 2 09.46 10.30
Level 1 10.31 11.15
Flute Mr Gnanavarathan Level 1 09.00 09.45
Level 2 09.46 10.30
Level 3 10.31 11.15
Level 4 11.16 12.00
Miruthangam Mr P Kirupakaran Level 3 09.00 09.45
Level 2 09.46 10.30
Level 1 10.31 11.15
Mr R N Prakash Level 4 09.00 09.45
Level 3 09.46 10.30
Level 2 10.31 11.15
Level 1 11.16 12.00
Vocal Miss Y Mithirathas Level 2 09.00 09.45
Level 1 09.46 10.30
Level 4 10.31 11.15
Level 3 11.16 12.00
Mrs V Prathaban Level 3 09.00 09.45
Level 2 09.46 10.30
Level 4 10.31 11.15
Level 1 11.16 12.00
Key Board Mr.Santhorsh Level 1 09.00 09.45
Level 2 09.46 10.30
Level 3 10.31 11.15
Level 4 11.16 12.00
ASSEMBLY 12.15 12.30
Tamil Mr K Jegatheeswaran 12.30 13.45
Mr V Poopalasundram 12.30 13.45
Mrs R Ambikaipakan 12.30 13.45
Mrs S Vipulananthan 12.30 13.45
Mrs V Poopalasundram 12.30 13.45
Mrs C Varatharajah 12.30 13.45
Mrs G Kannapiran 12.30 13.45
Mrs J Thamilarasi 12.30 13.45
Mrs S Sugirtharanjan 12.30 13.45
Mrs.G.Umapathykumar 12.30 13.45
Mrs S Kiritharan 12.30 13.45
Mrs.S.Ganeshalingam 12.30 13.45
Tolworth Girl’s School,
Fullers way north,
Surbiton,
Surrey
KT6 7LQ
Telephone:
020 8399 7848
020 8949 3012
Harrow Tamil School
Harrow Tamil School Association (HTSA) is a non-political, non-profitable, secular, cultural, educational and artistic organization for the Tamils and others who are interested in our affluent culture. Our Association is fully dedicated to preserve one of the oldest civilization known to mankind as well as widening our horizon to reach out to other races.
Harrow Tamil School Association (HTSA) teaches Tamil, Bharata natyam, Flute, Hinduism, Keyboard, Miruthangam, Veena, Violin and Vocal from beginners to diploma level. We operate from Whitmore High School on Saturdays between the times of 12pm to 5pm. Every July we organize mesmerizing ensembles in grand theatres to showcase our children’s talent. In addition, we also train our children in Football and Netball and encourage them to participate in various tournaments.
Owing to Harrow Tamil School Association’s (HTSA) reputed and fervent teachers, impartiality, low fee level and its location, there is an overwhelming demand for places at all times and we follow a very stringent admission procedure. However we treat everyone equally and admissions are given to children on their own merits.
We are here to safeguard, promote and uphold our rich Dravidian culture, believed to be over 2,500 years old, Tamil language and Fine Arts among the expatriate Tamils living in the United Kingdom.
Our Aims and Aspirations
•To promote Dravidian values, Tamil language and culture
•To encourage talents among the Tamil children
•To provide comprehensive teaching at reasonable prices
•To teach our children the rich traditions of our culture through various celebrations and activities
•To teach our young children morals, cohesion, flexibility, communication, respect, family values, importance of education etc.
•To make each and every parent feel part of the School and make them contribute to its continued growth and success
What we offer
•Bharata natyam
•Flute
•Football training
•Hinduism
•Keyboard
•Miruthangam
•Netball training
•Tamil language classes up to GCE ’A’ Level (Eight classes)
•Veena
•Violin
•Vocal
•Yoga for parents
Organisational Structure
The Harrow Tamil School Association is run by Board of Administrators (BOA) and the Board is elected at a Special General Meeting by paid parent members every year. The BOA consists of a President, a Secretary, a Treasurer and four Committee members. The BOA then selects various parents’ representatives to form either a sub-committee or act as individuals to manage various activities and events under their watchful eyes. These individuals are chosen randomly and on rotation so that every parent will be represented in due course and they all feel part of our successful Tamil School.
Our Principal Endeavours
The HTSA organizes various exhilarating events every year for students to showcase their talents as well as Thrirukkural and Tamil speech competitions. HTSA also coordinates Sports Day and Christmas Party every year. These two events are fantastic day and night out for parents and grand-parents are alike. Moreover, these events are very well organized and more importantly the participants are of high calibre and the standard of these programs are second to none. The following ones are our core activities;
•January - Thai Pongal Celebration
•March - Tamil Speech Competition – Different age groups
•April – Tamil Film – School benefit show
•July - Kalai Vizha – Children’s Dance, Drama and Musical extravaganza
•July - Sports Day – Inter-house Competition
•July - School Sea-side Trip
•October - Navarathiri Poojai – Children’s performance
•November - Thirukkural Competition – Different age groups
•December - Christmas Party – Children and Parents participate in Drama, Bollywood, Disco, Street etc. etc.
Our Ambition
•To become the most sought after Tamil and Fine Arts School, not only in Harrow, but also in the whole of U.K
•To secure steady stream of income through various sponsorships in order to minimise the School fees
•To increase our students numbers to 500
•To produce termly newsletters to inform parents of any decisions, changes and impending activities
•To arrange parents meeting regularly to listen to their opinions, ideas and encourage their participation and contributions
•To orchestrate various workshops for parents and children
•To organize fund raising events every year
Tamil Language and Religious Studies
Tamil Class 1 - Mr S. Manoharan & Mrs M. Ramanan
Nursery - 1
(New students to the school) 12:30 - 1:45 Class Room: English 9
Tamil Class 2 - Mrs G. Velupillai & Mrs K. Sripavan
Nursery - 2
(New students to the school) 12:30 - 1:45 Class Room: English 7
Tamil Class 3 - Mrs G. Gnaneswaran & Mrs R. Sutharson
Beginners 12:30 - 1:45 Class Room: English 8
Tamil Class 4 - Mrs U. Jegathesan & Mrs M. Karunakaran
Year 1 12:30 - 1:45 Class Room: English 1
Tamil Class 5 - Mrs R. Ananthasayanan & Miss S. Raveendran
Year 2 12:30 - 1:45 Class Room: English 2
Tamil Class 6 - Mrs R. Kumrakurunathan & Mrs S Ganesha Sharma
Year 3 12:30 - 1:45 Class Room: English 3
Tamil Class 7 - Mrs B. Sivakumar
Year 4
(GCSE) 12:30 - 1:45 Class Room: English 4
Tamil Class 8 - Dr V. Ananthasayanan
Drama / Tamil 12:30 - 1:45 Class Room: English 5
School Assembly 1:45 - 2:00
Religion - Mrs. G. Gnaneswaran
For All 2:00 - 2:30 Class Room: English 8
Fine Arts
Miruthangam - Mr Padmanaban Jayaraman
Grade 3 2:00 - 2:45 Class Room: English 7
Grade 2 2:45 - 3:30 Class Room: English 7
Beginners 3:30 - 4:30 Class Room: English 7
Miruthangam - Mr Kandiah Anandanadesan
Grade 6 2:00 - 3:00 Class Room: English 1
Grade 7 & 8 3:00 - 4:15 Class Room: English 1
Miruthangam - Mr Arun Maheswaran
Grade 1 2:00 - 2:45 Class Room: English 1
Grade 2 & 3 2:45 - 3:30 Class Room: English 1
Grade 4 & 5 3:30 - 4:30 Class Room: English 1
Violin - Mrs Balarani Saravanapavan
Grade 5 2:00 - 2:30 Class Room: English 2
Beginners 2:30 - 3:00 Class Room: English 2
Grade 1 & 2 3:00 - 3:30 Class Room: English 2
Grade 7 & 8 3:30 - 4:00 Class Room: English 2
Grade 4 4:00 - 4:30 Class Room: English 2
Violin - Mr K.T. Sivaganesh
Gr 1 2 3 2:00 - 2:45 Class Room: English 3
New students 2:45 - 3:30 Class Room: English 3
Gr 6 7 and 8 3:30 - 4:15 Class Room: English 3
Vocal - Mr K. Aravindakshan
Grade 5 2:00 - 2:45 Class Room: English 4
Grade 6 2:45 - 3:30 Class Room: English 4
Grade 7 & 8 3:30 - 4:15 Class Room: English 4
Vocal - Miss Amirthavani Sivanathan
Grade 4 2:00 - 2:45 Class Room: Maths 1
Grade 3 2:45 - 3:30 Class Room: Maths 1
Grade 1 & 2 3:30 - 4:30 Class Room: Maths 1
Veena - Mrs Sivatharani Sahathevan
Grade 1 2 & 3 2:00 - 2:45 Class Room: English 8
Grade 3 4 & 5 2:24 - 3:15 Class Room: English 8
Grade 5 6 & 7 3:15 - 4:00 Class Room: English 8
Keyboard - Mr Soruben Selvanayagam
Grade 3 & 4 2:00 - 2:30 Class Room: English 9
Grade 1 & 2 2:30 - 3:00 Class Room: English 9
Grade 5 & 6 3:00 - 3:45 Class Room: English 9
New students 3:45 - 4:30 Class Room: English 9
Bharatanatyam - Mrs Usha Raghavan
Grade 1 & 2 2:00 - 2:45 Class Room: English 6
Grade 3 & 4 2:45 - 3:30 Class Room: English 6
Grade 5 & 6 3:30 - 4:30 Class Room: English 6
Flute - Mr T. Raghavaraman
Beginners 2:00 - 3:15 Class Room: English 5
Grade 1 3:15 - 4:00 Class Room: English 5
Grade 2 4:00 - 4:30 Class Room: English 5
SPRING TERM
January 2011 8th (Term 2 begins), 15th, 22nd and 29th
February 2011 5th, 12th and 19th
February 2011 26th Feb 2011 Half Term Holiday
March 2011 5th, 12th (Fine Arts classes only), 19th and 26th
April 2011 2nd (Tamil classes only) and 9th (Term 2 ends)
April 2011 16th, 23rd & 30th April 2011 Spring Holidays
SUMMER TERM
May 2011 7th(Term 3 begins), 14th, 21st and 28th
June 2011 4th June 2011 Half Term Holiday
June 2011 11th, 18th and 25th
July 2011 2nd, 9th and 16th (Term 3 ends)
July, August, September 2011 23rd and 30th July, 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th August, 3rd September Summer Holidays
AUTUMN TERM
September 2011 10th (Term 1 begins), 17th and 24th
October 2011 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th
November 2011 5th (Fine Arts classes only), 12th, 19th and 26th
December 2011 3rd and 10th (Term 1 ends)
KEY DATES TO REMEMBER FOR 2011
15th January 2011 Thai Pongal
12th March 2011 Speech Competition
2nd April 2011 Fine Arts Music Examination Day 1 (OFAAL Board)
3rd April 2011 Tamil Film - School Benefit Show
30th April 2011 Fine Arts Music Examination Day 2 (OFAAL Board)
21st May 2011 Magazine Articles and advertisements closing Date
21st May 2011 School Class Photos
17th July 2011 Annual Sports Day
9th July 2011 Annual Thamil and Kalai Vizha 2011
To Be Confirmed July 2011 Football Tournament
To Be Confirmed HTSA Grand Fund Raising Occasion
To Be Confirmed School Sea-side Trip
To Be Confirmed Annual General Meeting (AGM)
1st October 2011 School Navarathiri Pooja
5th November 2011 Thirukkural Competition
17th December 2011 School Christmas Party
Address: Harrow Tamil School Association (HTSA)
c/o Whitmore High School
Porlock Avenue
Harrow
Middlesex
HA2 0AD
Email: committee@htsa.org.uk
Sivakumaran Tamil School
Harrow Tamil School Association (HTSA) is a non-political, non-profitable, secular, cultural, educational and artistic organization for the Tamils and others who are interested in our affluent culture. Our Association is fully dedicated to preserve one of the oldest civilization known to mankind as well as widening our horizon to reach out to other races.
Harrow Tamil School Association (HTSA) teaches Tamil, Bharata natyam, Flute, Hinduism, Keyboard, Miruthangam, Veena, Violin and Vocal from beginners to diploma level. We operate from Whitmore High School on Saturdays between the times of 12pm to 5pm. Every July we organize mesmerizing ensembles in grand theatres to showcase our children’s talent. In addition, we also train our children in Football and Netball and encourage them to participate in various tournaments.
Owing to Harrow Tamil School Association’s (HTSA) reputed and fervent teachers, impartiality, low fee level and its location, there is an overwhelming demand for places at all times and we follow a very stringent admission procedure. However we treat everyone equally and admissions are given to children on their own merits.
We are here to safeguard, promote and uphold our rich Dravidian culture, believed to be over 2,500 years old, Tamil language and Fine Arts among the expatriate Tamils living in the United Kingdom.
Our Aims and Aspirations
•To promote Dravidian values, Tamil language and culture
•To encourage talents among the Tamil children
•To provide comprehensive teaching at reasonable prices
•To teach our children the rich traditions of our culture through various celebrations and activities
•To teach our young children morals, cohesion, flexibility, communication, respect, family values, importance of education etc.
•To make each and every parent feel part of the School and make them contribute to its continued growth and success
What we offer
•Bharata natyam
•Flute
•Football training
•Hinduism
•Keyboard
•Miruthangam
•Netball training
•Tamil language classes up to GCE ’A’ Level (Eight classes)
•Veena
•Violin
•Vocal
•Yoga for parents
Organisational Structure
The Harrow Tamil School Association is run by Board of Administrators (BOA) and the Board is elected at a Special General Meeting by paid parent members every year. The BOA consists of a President, a Secretary, a Treasurer and four Committee members. The BOA then selects various parents’ representatives to form either a sub-committee or act as individuals to manage various activities and events under their watchful eyes. These individuals are chosen randomly and on rotation so that every parent will be represented in due course and they all feel part of our successful Tamil School.
Our Principal Endeavours
The HTSA organizes various exhilarating events every year for students to showcase their talents as well as Thrirukkural and Tamil speech competitions. HTSA also coordinates Sports Day and Christmas Party every year. These two events are fantastic day and night out for parents and grand-parents are alike. Moreover, these events are very well organized and more importantly the participants are of high calibre and the standard of these programs are second to none. The following ones are our core activities;
•January - Thai Pongal Celebration
•March - Tamil Speech Competition – Different age groups
•April – Tamil Film – School benefit show
•July - Kalai Vizha – Children’s Dance, Drama and Musical extravaganza
•July - Sports Day – Inter-house Competition
•July - School Sea-side Trip
•October - Navarathiri Poojai – Children’s performance
•November - Thirukkural Competition – Different age groups
•December - Christmas Party – Children and Parents participate in Drama, Bollywood, Disco, Street etc. etc.
Our Ambition
•To become the most sought after Tamil and Fine Arts School, not only in Harrow, but also in the whole of U.K
•To secure steady stream of income through various sponsorships in order to minimise the School fees
•To increase our students numbers to 500
•To produce termly newsletters to inform parents of any decisions, changes and impending activities
•To arrange parents meeting regularly to listen to their opinions, ideas and encourage their participation and contributions
•To orchestrate various workshops for parents and children
•To organize fund raising events every year
Tamil Language and Religious Studies
Tamil Class 1 - Mr S. Manoharan & Mrs M. Ramanan
Nursery - 1
(New students to the school) 12:30 - 1:45 Class Room: English 9
Tamil Class 2 - Mrs G. Velupillai & Mrs K. Sripavan
Nursery - 2
(New students to the school) 12:30 - 1:45 Class Room: English 7
Tamil Class 3 - Mrs G. Gnaneswaran & Mrs R. Sutharson
Beginners 12:30 - 1:45 Class Room: English 8
Tamil Class 4 - Mrs U. Jegathesan & Mrs M. Karunakaran
Year 1 12:30 - 1:45 Class Room: English 1
Tamil Class 5 - Mrs R. Ananthasayanan & Miss S. Raveendran
Year 2 12:30 - 1:45 Class Room: English 2
Tamil Class 6 - Mrs R. Kumrakurunathan & Mrs S Ganesha Sharma
Year 3 12:30 - 1:45 Class Room: English 3
Tamil Class 7 - Mrs B. Sivakumar
Year 4
(GCSE) 12:30 - 1:45 Class Room: English 4
Tamil Class 8 - Dr V. Ananthasayanan
Drama / Tamil 12:30 - 1:45 Class Room: English 5
School Assembly 1:45 - 2:00
Religion - Mrs. G. Gnaneswaran
For All 2:00 - 2:30 Class Room: English 8
Fine Arts
Miruthangam - Mr Padmanaban Jayaraman
Grade 3 2:00 - 2:45 Class Room: English 7
Grade 2 2:45 - 3:30 Class Room: English 7
Beginners 3:30 - 4:30 Class Room: English 7
Miruthangam - Mr Kandiah Anandanadesan
Grade 6 2:00 - 3:00 Class Room: English 1
Grade 7 & 8 3:00 - 4:15 Class Room: English 1
Miruthangam - Mr Arun Maheswaran
Grade 1 2:00 - 2:45 Class Room: English 1
Grade 2 & 3 2:45 - 3:30 Class Room: English 1
Grade 4 & 5 3:30 - 4:30 Class Room: English 1
Violin - Mrs Balarani Saravanapavan
Grade 5 2:00 - 2:30 Class Room: English 2
Beginners 2:30 - 3:00 Class Room: English 2
Grade 1 & 2 3:00 - 3:30 Class Room: English 2
Grade 7 & 8 3:30 - 4:00 Class Room: English 2
Grade 4 4:00 - 4:30 Class Room: English 2
Violin - Mr K.T. Sivaganesh
Gr 1 2 3 2:00 - 2:45 Class Room: English 3
New students 2:45 - 3:30 Class Room: English 3
Gr 6 7 and 8 3:30 - 4:15 Class Room: English 3
Vocal - Mr K. Aravindakshan
Grade 5 2:00 - 2:45 Class Room: English 4
Grade 6 2:45 - 3:30 Class Room: English 4
Grade 7 & 8 3:30 - 4:15 Class Room: English 4
Vocal - Miss Amirthavani Sivanathan
Grade 4 2:00 - 2:45 Class Room: Maths 1
Grade 3 2:45 - 3:30 Class Room: Maths 1
Grade 1 & 2 3:30 - 4:30 Class Room: Maths 1
Veena - Mrs Sivatharani Sahathevan
Grade 1 2 & 3 2:00 - 2:45 Class Room: English 8
Grade 3 4 & 5 2:24 - 3:15 Class Room: English 8
Grade 5 6 & 7 3:15 - 4:00 Class Room: English 8
Keyboard - Mr Soruben Selvanayagam
Grade 3 & 4 2:00 - 2:30 Class Room: English 9
Grade 1 & 2 2:30 - 3:00 Class Room: English 9
Grade 5 & 6 3:00 - 3:45 Class Room: English 9
New students 3:45 - 4:30 Class Room: English 9
Bharatanatyam - Mrs Usha Raghavan
Grade 1 & 2 2:00 - 2:45 Class Room: English 6
Grade 3 & 4 2:45 - 3:30 Class Room: English 6
Grade 5 & 6 3:30 - 4:30 Class Room: English 6
Flute - Mr T. Raghavaraman
Beginners 2:00 - 3:15 Class Room: English 5
Grade 1 3:15 - 4:00 Class Room: English 5
Grade 2 4:00 - 4:30 Class Room: English 5
SPRING TERM
January 2011 8th (Term 2 begins), 15th, 22nd and 29th
February 2011 5th, 12th and 19th
February 2011 26th Feb 2011 Half Term Holiday
March 2011 5th, 12th (Fine Arts classes only), 19th and 26th
April 2011 2nd (Tamil classes only) and 9th (Term 2 ends)
April 2011 16th, 23rd & 30th April 2011 Spring Holidays
SUMMER TERM
May 2011 7th(Term 3 begins), 14th, 21st and 28th
June 2011 4th June 2011 Half Term Holiday
June 2011 11th, 18th and 25th
July 2011 2nd, 9th and 16th (Term 3 ends)
July, August, September 2011 23rd and 30th July, 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th August, 3rd September Summer Holidays
AUTUMN TERM
September 2011 10th (Term 1 begins), 17th and 24th
October 2011 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th
November 2011 5th (Fine Arts classes only), 12th, 19th and 26th
December 2011 3rd and 10th (Term 1 ends)
KEY DATES TO REMEMBER FOR 2011
15th January 2011 Thai Pongal
12th March 2011 Speech Competition
2nd April 2011 Fine Arts Music Examination Day 1 (OFAAL Board)
3rd April 2011 Tamil Film - School Benefit Show
30th April 2011 Fine Arts Music Examination Day 2 (OFAAL Board)
21st May 2011 Magazine Articles and advertisements closing Date
21st May 2011 School Class Photos
17th July 2011 Annual Sports Day
9th July 2011 Annual Thamil and Kalai Vizha 2011
To Be Confirmed July 2011 Football Tournament
To Be Confirmed HTSA Grand Fund Raising Occasion
To Be Confirmed School Sea-side Trip
To Be Confirmed Annual General Meeting (AGM)
1st October 2011 School Navarathiri Pooja
5th November 2011 Thirukkural Competition
17th December 2011 School Christmas Party
Address: Harrow Tamil School Association (HTSA)
c/o Whitmore High School
Porlock Avenue
Harrow
Middlesex
HA2 0AD
Email: committee@htsa.org.uk
Sivakumaran Tamil School
Tamil language class year 4 upwards
Preparing for ocr asset reception and breakthrough
Premilinary ,Intermideate and CambridgeGCE exams
Saturday 10 am-12 noon
English,Maths,Verbal reasoning and Non verbal
Year 2,3,4,5, and 11 plus
Friday 5pm- 8pm
GCE and A/L Maths
Saturday 10am - 4pm
To organise sustainable programs of action and provide facilities to meet the following needs of Tamil community as outlined below.
1.To teach Tamil children the language of their parents as an additional language along with fine arts and foster values of Tamil culture.
2.To teach refugees and Tamil people the language, norms and values of England and English culture so as to facilitate their harmonious integration into the English society and their participation in the social, political and economic life of England.
3.To teach mainstream subjects such as English, Maths, Science and Computing for the children who have learning difficulties including language difficulties and for those who need additional help.
4.To provide for the provision of the necessary facilities for the daily care, recreation, education for the members of the local community irrespective of their race, gender, religion or social background.
5.To provide advice and assistance on health, housing, employment and coordinate with the local facilities to meet the needs of the newly migrated and refugee parents, children, youth and the elderly.
6.To provide for the sports activities of children and youth and provision of facilities for such purpose.
7.The provision of facilities for the elderly to get together so that they could organise and participate in activities that will fulfil their individual and spiritual needs that is not available otherwise.
8.To assist and provide for the voluntary return and resettlement of refugees and persons wishing to return back to their homeland by,
1.Providing information on situation and opportunities in their homeland
2.Creating opportunities for profitable employment and amenities within homeland for the returnees to facilitate their safe return and resettlement.
3.Assisting the return of refugees and persons wanting to return to their homeland.
4.Supporting and liasing with organisations within the homeland to advance the above objectives.
9.To coordinate and corporate with other groups and associations to achieve the above objectives. Provide information and resources to other groups and organisations with similar objectives in order to provide efficient facilities to the community.
10.To conduct regular feedback, monitoring and consultation sessions to identify the evolving needs and to assess the effectiveness and efficiency of the current services and methods.
11.To provide further facilities as necessary for the families and their children to meet their cultural and social needs which will pave the way for the smooth social inclusion and to address the issues directly or indirectly related to crime, disorder, anti-social behaviour, drug addiction and poverty.
Date Time Event Description
Jun 18th Asset Exam OCR Asset exam for Reading, Writing & Listening will start today at 10:00am. All candidates should be at the exam center at 9:45 am.
May 28th Asset Exam Speaking exam - All candidates will be examined individually.
Jul 16th End of Term School closed from today and begins in September 2011. Have a nice holidays.
Sep 24th Ofaal Ofaal exam
Oct 8th Navarathri Simple Navarathri celebration at Sivakumaran school.
Oct 29th Half Term Half term-School closed
Nov 12th Thirukkural competition Class teachers will provide all details to the students.
Dec 17th End of Term School holidays begins.
Sep 10th School starts Registration day.
Jan 7th School starts Registration day and happy new year to all.
Jan 14th Thirukkural competition 2nd Round
Feb 18th Half Term School closed today
Jun 11th Term Test Term exam for all grades
Oct 15th Annual General Meeting Contact the headteacher for more details
Dec 3rd Term Exam Term test for all grades
Dec 17th Christmas party Christmas celebration at Sivakumaran school
Mar 24th Term test Term exam for all grades
Mar 31st End of Term School holidays begins
Apr 7th Ofaal Exam Ofaal exam
Apr 21st School starts Registration day.
Apr 28th Ofaal Exam Ofaal practical exam for grade 3 to Diploma
Jun 9th Half Term School closed
Jun 9th Sports Day Sports day
Jun 16th Speech competition Speech competition
Jun 30th Term Test Term exam for all grades
Jul 21st Annual cultural day Annual cultural day
Jul 21st End of Term End of Term
Jun 25th School photograph School photograph
Jul 2nd Rehearsal for cultural day Rehearsal for cultural day
Jul 9th Final Rehearsal Day Final rehearsal day
Jul 2nd Students report day Reports to be handover to the students by the class teacher
Jul 31st Beach Trip Please book beach@tamiled.co.uk
Jul 16th Cultural Day Cultural day program start at 5.30pm at Oswall hall, Croydon.
Contact Us
Address : West Thornton Primary School
Rosecourt Road
Croydon
CR0 3BS
Telephone : 0208 689 5897 / 0208 540 0705
07958 408 280
0788 309 1994
Email :
Administrative Office : 72 Warlingham Road
Thornton Heath
Surrey CR7 7DE
TAMIL SCHOOLS
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Aruna-Udhayam, Trinity Youth Centre,
Burrage Road, Plumstead, SE18
Tel:020 8317 7940
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
London School of Carnatic Music,
4A Clarendon Rise, London, SE13 5EF
Tel:020 8318 9844
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Barnet Tamil School,
24 Alexandra Road, Hendon, London, NW4 2SA
Tel:020 8203 1786
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
London Sath Sangam,
Cannons High School, Edgware, Middlesex, HA8 6AN
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bharathiyar Tamil School,
Goringe Park, Middle School, Sandy Lane, Mitcham
Tel:020 8672 1811
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
London Tamil Academy,
Wembley High School, East Lane, Wembley
Tel:020 8904 3937
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Birmingham Tamil School,
Joseph Chamberlain 6th Form College, Birmingham, B12
0121 351 1305
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
London Tamil Centre,
253 East Lane, Wembley, Middlesex, HAO 3NN
Tel:020 8904 3937
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brent Tamil Association,
Alperton High School, Ealing Road, Wembley
Tel:020 8208 7815
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
London Tamil Sangam, 369 High Street North, Manor Park, London, E12 6PG
Tel:020 7470 1013
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brent Tamil School & Ins of Science,
Preston Manor High School, Carlton Ave East, Wembley, Middlesex
Tel:020 82372 7164
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Muthumari Amman Kovil Tamil School,
180 Upper Tooting Road, London, SW17 7EW
Tel:020 8767 9881
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eezham Tamil Primary School,
C/O 145 Eton Road, Ilford, Essex, IG1 2UQ
Tel:020 8514 2879
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Naalvar Tamil Academy,
Little Ilford School, Browning Road, London, E12 6ET
Tel: 020 8924 8492
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Essex Tamil Accademy,
64 Glencoe Avenue, Newbury Park, Essex, IG2 7AN
Tel:020 8491 7600
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Harrow Tamil School,
54 Chestnut Drive, Pinner, Middlesex
Tel:020 8422 4115
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Herts Tamil School,
Parkgate Junior School, Watford, Herts
Tel:01923 463 466
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kingston Institute of Tamil Culture,
Tolworth Girls High School, Fullers Way North, Tolworth, Surrey, KT6 7LQ
Tel:020 8949 3012
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
London Anglo Tamil Association,
7 Ascot Road, Edmonton, London, N18 2PU
Tel:020 8807 4885
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
North London Tamil School,
7 Ascot Road, Edmonton, London, N18 2PU
Tel:020 8807 4885
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Northwest Tamil School,
3 Birkenhills Dr, Lady Bridge, Bolton, BL3 4TX
Tel:01204 665 361
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reading Tamil School,
18 Lunds Farm Road, Woodley, Reading, RG5 4PX
Tel:01734 694375
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tamil Welfare Association of Wandsworth,
Tooting, London, SW17
Tel:020 8239 9689
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SOAS Language Centre,
Thornhaugh Street, Russell Square, London, WC1H OXG
Tel:020 7323 6379
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tamil Kalvi Koodam,
61 Cecil Road, Hounslow, Middlesex, TW3 1NX
Tel:020 8577 6650
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thiruvalluvar Tamil School,
720 Romford Road, London, E12 6BT
Tel:020 8598 8965
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
South London Tamil School,
Shirley Road, Croydon, CR9 7AL
Tel:01737 551407
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Waltham Forest Tamil School,
Willowfield High School, Walthamstow, London, E17
Tel: 020 8503 6643
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sri Kanaga Thurkai Amman,
5 Chapel Road, West Ealing, London, W13 9AE
Tel:020 8810 0835 or 0118 932 1438
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
West London Tamil School,
Stanhope Middle School, Greenford, Middlesex
Tel:020 8578 3019
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tamil Academy of Language & Arts,
6th Form Building Crofton School, Manwood Road, London, SE4
Tel:020 8289 5871
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kingston Institute of Tamil Culture,
Fullers Way North, Tolworth, Surrey, KT6 7LQ
Tel:020 8397 3814
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tamil Welfare Association of W’Worth,
Derington Road, Community
Preparing for ocr asset reception and breakthrough
Premilinary ,Intermideate and CambridgeGCE exams
Saturday 10 am-12 noon
English,Maths,Verbal reasoning and Non verbal
Year 2,3,4,5, and 11 plus
Friday 5pm- 8pm
GCE and A/L Maths
Saturday 10am - 4pm
To organise sustainable programs of action and provide facilities to meet the following needs of Tamil community as outlined below.
1.To teach Tamil children the language of their parents as an additional language along with fine arts and foster values of Tamil culture.
2.To teach refugees and Tamil people the language, norms and values of England and English culture so as to facilitate their harmonious integration into the English society and their participation in the social, political and economic life of England.
3.To teach mainstream subjects such as English, Maths, Science and Computing for the children who have learning difficulties including language difficulties and for those who need additional help.
4.To provide for the provision of the necessary facilities for the daily care, recreation, education for the members of the local community irrespective of their race, gender, religion or social background.
5.To provide advice and assistance on health, housing, employment and coordinate with the local facilities to meet the needs of the newly migrated and refugee parents, children, youth and the elderly.
6.To provide for the sports activities of children and youth and provision of facilities for such purpose.
7.The provision of facilities for the elderly to get together so that they could organise and participate in activities that will fulfil their individual and spiritual needs that is not available otherwise.
8.To assist and provide for the voluntary return and resettlement of refugees and persons wishing to return back to their homeland by,
1.Providing information on situation and opportunities in their homeland
2.Creating opportunities for profitable employment and amenities within homeland for the returnees to facilitate their safe return and resettlement.
3.Assisting the return of refugees and persons wanting to return to their homeland.
4.Supporting and liasing with organisations within the homeland to advance the above objectives.
9.To coordinate and corporate with other groups and associations to achieve the above objectives. Provide information and resources to other groups and organisations with similar objectives in order to provide efficient facilities to the community.
10.To conduct regular feedback, monitoring and consultation sessions to identify the evolving needs and to assess the effectiveness and efficiency of the current services and methods.
11.To provide further facilities as necessary for the families and their children to meet their cultural and social needs which will pave the way for the smooth social inclusion and to address the issues directly or indirectly related to crime, disorder, anti-social behaviour, drug addiction and poverty.
Date Time Event Description
Jun 18th Asset Exam OCR Asset exam for Reading, Writing & Listening will start today at 10:00am. All candidates should be at the exam center at 9:45 am.
May 28th Asset Exam Speaking exam - All candidates will be examined individually.
Jul 16th End of Term School closed from today and begins in September 2011. Have a nice holidays.
Sep 24th Ofaal Ofaal exam
Oct 8th Navarathri Simple Navarathri celebration at Sivakumaran school.
Oct 29th Half Term Half term-School closed
Nov 12th Thirukkural competition Class teachers will provide all details to the students.
Dec 17th End of Term School holidays begins.
Sep 10th School starts Registration day.
Jan 7th School starts Registration day and happy new year to all.
Jan 14th Thirukkural competition 2nd Round
Feb 18th Half Term School closed today
Jun 11th Term Test Term exam for all grades
Oct 15th Annual General Meeting Contact the headteacher for more details
Dec 3rd Term Exam Term test for all grades
Dec 17th Christmas party Christmas celebration at Sivakumaran school
Mar 24th Term test Term exam for all grades
Mar 31st End of Term School holidays begins
Apr 7th Ofaal Exam Ofaal exam
Apr 21st School starts Registration day.
Apr 28th Ofaal Exam Ofaal practical exam for grade 3 to Diploma
Jun 9th Half Term School closed
Jun 9th Sports Day Sports day
Jun 16th Speech competition Speech competition
Jun 30th Term Test Term exam for all grades
Jul 21st Annual cultural day Annual cultural day
Jul 21st End of Term End of Term
Jun 25th School photograph School photograph
Jul 2nd Rehearsal for cultural day Rehearsal for cultural day
Jul 9th Final Rehearsal Day Final rehearsal day
Jul 2nd Students report day Reports to be handover to the students by the class teacher
Jul 31st Beach Trip Please book beach@tamiled.co.uk
Jul 16th Cultural Day Cultural day program start at 5.30pm at Oswall hall, Croydon.
Contact Us
Address : West Thornton Primary School
Rosecourt Road
Croydon
CR0 3BS
Telephone : 0208 689 5897 / 0208 540 0705
07958 408 280
0788 309 1994
Email :
Administrative Office : 72 Warlingham Road
Thornton Heath
Surrey CR7 7DE
TAMIL SCHOOLS
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Aruna-Udhayam, Trinity Youth Centre,
Burrage Road, Plumstead, SE18
Tel:020 8317 7940
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
London School of Carnatic Music,
4A Clarendon Rise, London, SE13 5EF
Tel:020 8318 9844
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Barnet Tamil School,
24 Alexandra Road, Hendon, London, NW4 2SA
Tel:020 8203 1786
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
London Sath Sangam,
Cannons High School, Edgware, Middlesex, HA8 6AN
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bharathiyar Tamil School,
Goringe Park, Middle School, Sandy Lane, Mitcham
Tel:020 8672 1811
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
London Tamil Academy,
Wembley High School, East Lane, Wembley
Tel:020 8904 3937
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Birmingham Tamil School,
Joseph Chamberlain 6th Form College, Birmingham, B12
0121 351 1305
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
London Tamil Centre,
253 East Lane, Wembley, Middlesex, HAO 3NN
Tel:020 8904 3937
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brent Tamil Association,
Alperton High School, Ealing Road, Wembley
Tel:020 8208 7815
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
London Tamil Sangam, 369 High Street North, Manor Park, London, E12 6PG
Tel:020 7470 1013
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brent Tamil School & Ins of Science,
Preston Manor High School, Carlton Ave East, Wembley, Middlesex
Tel:020 82372 7164
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Muthumari Amman Kovil Tamil School,
180 Upper Tooting Road, London, SW17 7EW
Tel:020 8767 9881
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eezham Tamil Primary School,
C/O 145 Eton Road, Ilford, Essex, IG1 2UQ
Tel:020 8514 2879
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Naalvar Tamil Academy,
Little Ilford School, Browning Road, London, E12 6ET
Tel: 020 8924 8492
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Essex Tamil Accademy,
64 Glencoe Avenue, Newbury Park, Essex, IG2 7AN
Tel:020 8491 7600
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Harrow Tamil School,
54 Chestnut Drive, Pinner, Middlesex
Tel:020 8422 4115
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Herts Tamil School,
Parkgate Junior School, Watford, Herts
Tel:01923 463 466
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Kingston Institute of Tamil Culture,
Tolworth Girls High School, Fullers Way North, Tolworth, Surrey, KT6 7LQ
Tel:020 8949 3012
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London Anglo Tamil Association,
7 Ascot Road, Edmonton, London, N18 2PU
Tel:020 8807 4885
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North London Tamil School,
7 Ascot Road, Edmonton, London, N18 2PU
Tel:020 8807 4885
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Northwest Tamil School,
3 Birkenhills Dr, Lady Bridge, Bolton, BL3 4TX
Tel:01204 665 361
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Reading Tamil School,
18 Lunds Farm Road, Woodley, Reading, RG5 4PX
Tel:01734 694375
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Tamil Welfare Association of Wandsworth,
Tooting, London, SW17
Tel:020 8239 9689
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SOAS Language Centre,
Thornhaugh Street, Russell Square, London, WC1H OXG
Tel:020 7323 6379
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Tamil Kalvi Koodam,
61 Cecil Road, Hounslow, Middlesex, TW3 1NX
Tel:020 8577 6650
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Thiruvalluvar Tamil School,
720 Romford Road, London, E12 6BT
Tel:020 8598 8965
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South London Tamil School,
Shirley Road, Croydon, CR9 7AL
Tel:01737 551407
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Waltham Forest Tamil School,
Willowfield High School, Walthamstow, London, E17
Tel: 020 8503 6643
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Sri Kanaga Thurkai Amman,
5 Chapel Road, West Ealing, London, W13 9AE
Tel:020 8810 0835 or 0118 932 1438
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West London Tamil School,
Stanhope Middle School, Greenford, Middlesex
Tel:020 8578 3019
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Tamil Academy of Language & Arts,
6th Form Building Crofton School, Manwood Road, London, SE4
Tel:020 8289 5871
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Kingston Institute of Tamil Culture,
Fullers Way North, Tolworth, Surrey, KT6 7LQ
Tel:020 8397 3814
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Tamil Welfare Association of W’Worth,
Derington Road, Community
Centre,London,W17
Tel:0208239 96
TAMIL KALAI KUDAM
The Oriental Fine Arts Academy of London
The Oriental Fine Arts Academy of London (OFAAL) is Europe’s leading examination board for the traditional South Indian Fine Arts. With over twenty-five centres across Europe offering examinations in subjects ranging from miruthangam to bharathanatyam, OFAAL offers students of all ages the opportunity to formalise their learning through preparing for and gaining recognised qualifications. Through a structured programme of study, OFAAL guides pupils through the elementary stages of a fine-arts education, taking them through to a stage where they are fully qualified to teach their art to the next generation.
OFAAL was formed in 1990, as part of the West London Tamil School, initially to offer students of the school a chance to formalise their learning. The first set of examinations were held in 1990, with a mere 3xx number of candidates sitting examinations in bharathanatyam, vocal, veena, flute, miruthangam and violin. Ever since, the examinations have grown, with more and more candidates taking exams in new centres each year. In 199x, OFAAL held its first examinations abroad, opening its first centre in Germany. In 200x, the work involved in co-ordinating the examination days had become so demanding that the decision was made to form a separate committee (distinct from the governing body of West London Tamil School) for OFAAL. By 2001, the number of candidates sitting OFAAL examinations in the UK had become so large, over 2000, that it became necessary to conduct the examinations on two different days, in order to maintain the professionalism and smooth-running efficiency that characterises OFAAL so uniquely. That year the theory examinations were held a month before the practical examinations, which had added benefits for students too, in that they were able to be better prepared for their respective examinations. By 2005, OFAAL had grown even more, and the decision was made to offer two examination sessions. The exam board now offers students the opportunity to sit their exams in either April or September, thus alleviating pressure off students due to sit GCSE or A Level exams in May. Despite other examination boards emerging around London, OFAAL has retained its position as the premier exam board throughout its two decades. At the time of writing, some x number of candidates have been entered for the 2008 exams, which is shaping up to be OFAAL’s most successful year so far.
OFAAL offers fine-arts students the opportunity to take both practical and theory examinations in their respective subjects, a product of the belief that practical instruction in the fine arts is enriched with, (and arguably, is somewhat worthless without) an appreciation of the theoretical side of one’s subject. Practical examinations start at a very basic level, allowing new students to ease themselves in to their first examinations; by the time a student reaches Grade 8 (Diploma) standard, she is expected to be completely versatile and fluent with her instrument / dance. A typical grade one syllabus for instruments requires knowledge of rudimentary musical exercises, such as the swara varasaikal; for the diploma examination, however, candidates are expected to, amongst other things, play Pancharatna Krithis, perform improvisations and to demonstrate their abilities in teaching young pupils.
OFAAL has remained at the forefront of its field, maintaining high standards by having only qualified examiners. In line with this commitment to maintaining professional and high standards, OFAAL introduced a new qualification in 2006, the Post-Diploma, which serves as a higher qualification than the previous highest qualification, the Diploma. Only a handful of candidates have sat this demanding exam, the practical of which is examined by a panel including the Chief Examiner, and the theoretical side of which requires candidates to research, submit and present before an audience a 5,000 word dissertation on a subject related to their chosen fine-art.
By the turn of the millennium, in line with technological advancements around the globe, OFAAL too had updated its services. Currently, the exam board has a fully interactive website at www.ofaal.org. The site allows students across Europe to download their admissions cards, syllabuses and exam materials from the ease of their own home. The site also enables students to access their results as soon as they are available. Moreover, the site allows OFAAL to keep up with the universal interest in cutting down on wasteful use of paper in a bid to save the environment.
As OFAAL looks to the future, it will strive to continue to meet the needs of fine-arts pupils and teachers alike. Through constantly evaluating and renewing their needs, OFAAL shall hopefully remain successful in years to come.
INSTITUTE OF TAMIL CULTURE
Objectives
•The ITC Fine Arts was mainly formed to promote arts and culture by the provision of facilities such as; workshops in South Indian music and dance for the advancement of knowledge and the development of artistic skills.
•programmes, public performances and various other events to unleash the talents of young people and for the benefit of wider public.
•promoting south asian dance and related performing Arts by encouraging awareness, appreciation and understanding.
ITC Fine Arts have organised and staged various music, dance and fusion programmes successfully. People of age groups 5 to 25, mainly Tamil community and few from Indian, Chinese and English origins use the facilities.
OTHERS
Tolworth Girl’s School,
Fullers way north,
Surbiton, Surrey KT6 7LQ
Contact
020 8942 1440
London School of Carnatic Music,
4A Clarendon Rise, London, SE13 5EF
Tel:020 8318 9844
Tamil Academy of Language & Arts,
6th Form Building Crofton School, Manwood Road, London, SE4
Tel:020 8289 5871
Kingston Institute of Tamil Culture,
Fullers Way North, Tolworth, Surrey, KT6 7LQ
Tel:020 8397 3814
Tamil Welfare Association of W’Worth,
Derington Road, Community Centre, London, SW17
Tel:020 8239 9689
