Trip to Hubli and other nearby places

On April 19th, an important day for all Indian citizens, marking their moral obligation to exercise their franchise in electing the right political party to lead the nation for the next five years, we began our day early. After completing our morning routine, we headed to the polling station by 7:15 am to cast our votes, wrapping up the process by 7:40 am and returning home promptly.

Our agenda then led us to an enjoyable trip to Hubli for the housewarming celebration of my brother-in-law Ramu, scheduled for April 21st. Arriving at Chennai Central Station by 1:45 pm, we boarded the Hubli Express, departing Chennai at 3:00 pm and arriving in Hubli on April 20th at 5:00 am.

However, upon our arrival in Hubli, an amusing confusion unfolded. Due to station renovations, the train halted before reaching the actual platform, requiring us to trek a kilometer to exit the station. Meanwhile, Ramu and Banu arrived a bit later, leading to a search for us on another platform, causing some chaos and confusion before eventually reuniting.

After a refreshing break, we visited the new house built by Sujatha, beautifully designed and constructed, complemented by the pleasant surroundings. A wise investment by Sujatha, they named it "Venkatachalam Nilayam" in memory of her grandfather.

Following a satisfying lunch, we visited the Nuggikeri  Hanuman Temple in Dharwar ,situated on the banks of Nuggikeri lake ,during the evening and offered our prayers for the welfare of all in our family.

April 21st, marked a significant milestone as Sujatha celebrated the housewarming ceremony for her newly constructed home in Bhengeri, Hubli. The day commenced with an early rise at 5 AM, allowing ample time for everyone to complete their morning routines and gather by 6:45 AM. With anticipation in the air, we proceeded to the new house where the pundit awaited our arrival.

The gathering was graced by the presence of three local ladies, close friends of Bhanu, whose assistance added a special touch to the proceedings. Commencing with the sacred cow worship, followed by the symbolic entry of the cow into the new abode, the ceremony unfolded with reverence. Family members, including Radha and myself, carried the auspicious pooja items, such as swami photos and the water pot, signifying blessings and prosperity.

Following this, the traditional milk boiling ceremony took place, accompanied by heartfelt prayers for our elders, "Hubli thatha" and "Hubli patti." A delightful breakfast spread awaited us afterward, setting the stage for the Navagraha and Vasthu homam conducted by the pundit. The presence of local friends enhanced the joyous atmosphere, as they actively participated in the rituals, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie.

As the day progressed, we indulged in a sumptuous lunch around 1:30 PM before bidding farewell to the gathering and returning home by 2 PM. The afternoon was spent in blissful repose, enjoying a well-deserved nap after a memorable and fulfilling day of celebration.

On the vibrant April 22nd, we embarked on a journey to explore the majestic temples surrounding Hubli. Conversing with the knowledgeable local tour operator, Nikhil, revealed Gokarna as our destination—a sacred site housing the revered Lord Mahabaleshwar Temple, the divine Lord Maha Ganapathy Temple, and the enchanting Goddess Parvathi Temple, nestled amidst serene beaches. Enthralled by Nikhil's suggestion, we eagerly set forth on our planned pilgrimage.

With the break of dawn, our spirits were high as we readied ourselves by 7 a.m. The punctual arrival of our taxi driver, Nikhil, at 7:30 a.m. signaled the commencement of our expedition. En route, we indulged in a delightful breakfast at a local restaurant, fueling our anticipation for the journey ahead.

Traversing through picturesque landscapes, including the enchanting Western Ghats via Yellapur and Sirsi, our voyage to Gokarna unfolded like a dream. Arriving at our destination by 10:30 a.m., we were greeted by the majestic presence of Lord Mahabaleshwar, offering our devout prayers amidst a tranquil ambiance.

Subsequently, we paid homage to Lord Ganapathi at the temple and meandered through the temple's alleys, discovering the sacred Koti Theertha tank, renowned for its purifying properties. Legend has it that Lord Ganapathi acquired the Atma Lingam from the hands of the Demon King Ravana, embedding it into the earth, hence earning the title Mahabaleshwar. Our spiritual journey continued with a sumptuous lunch at the Temple Trust Bhojanalaya, relishing the flavorsome offerings.

Our pilgrimage culminated with a visit to the awe-inspiring Lord Murdeswar Temple, where we basked in divine blessings amidst the tranquil beaches. En route back to Hubli, we made a reverent stop at the revered Lord Maha Ganapathy Temple in Idugungy, offering our prayers before returning by 7:15 p.m.

Satiated from a day filled with spiritual enrichment and culinary delights, we concluded our evening with a hearty dinner of dosai, retiring to bed with hearts full of gratitude and memories to cherish.

On April 23rd, our itinerary was packed with a visit to the mesmerizing Badami Caves and the revered Goddess Banashankari Devi Temple in Badami. With the proximity to Hubli, our driver Nikil suggested a relaxed departure around 10 am.

Beginning our day leisurely at 6:15 am, we eased into our morning routine amidst casual conversations with Ramu and Banu. After a refreshing bath, we savored a delightful breakfast of Banu's homemade Pongal. Nikil arrived around 10:15 am, and by 10:30 am, we embarked on our journey.

The scorching weather and the lack of trees along the highway made the heat palpable, exacerbated by the malfunctioning car AC. Nonetheless, we reached Badami by 12:45 pm and sought solace in the divine presence of Goddess Banashankari, relishing a serene darshan and the blessed prasadams before exiting the temple by 1:45 pm.

Our appetites led us to a nearby restaurant where we indulged in a delicious North Indian lunch, thoroughly enjoying the flavorsome meal. Energized, we explored the ancient Badami Caves, a testament to exquisite 6th-century craftsmanship by the Chalukyas. Navigating through the four caves nestled in the hill, each unfolding a story of architectural brilliance and mesmerizing sculptures, we were awestruck by their grandeur.

Descending from the hill by 4 pm, we commenced our homeward journey, arriving back in Hubli by 5:45 pm. Relaxing on the balcony with steaming hot coffee, we unwound before savoring a hearty dinner at 8 pm, bidding the day farewell as we retired to bed by 9 pm.

April24th agenda involved a pilgrimage to the renowned Kolhapur Goddess Sri Mahalakshmi temple. Known for bestowing prosperity, good health, and wealth upon her devotees, it's been a long-awaited journey for us. Thanks to our trip to Hubli, we could finally fulfill this desire. With Kolhapur around 200 kms away, we geared up for the journey at 7 am, promptly greeted by our driver Nikhil at 7:15 am. Fueling up with Banu's delicious morning breakfast of beaten rice upma, we indulged in breakfast en route, making a pit stop at Belagavi for a delightful round of coffee. Arriving at the Kolhapur Mahalakshmi temple by 11:45 am, we were greeted by a bustling crowd. Fortunately, with Nikhil's assistance, we navigated through and enjoyed a splendid darshan of Goddess Mahalakshmi. Spending almost an hour inside, we witnessed the divine aarti performed at 12:30 pm, feeling truly blessed as we exited the temple. Following a satisfying lunch provided by the temple trust, we departed Kolhapur around 2:45 pm, reaching Hubli by 6:45 pm. Relaxing on the balcony, embraced by the cool breeze, we savored a dinner of dosa at 8:30 pm, retiring to bed contentedly by 9:30 pm.

On April 25th, following our explorations of the nearby attractions in Hubli, we opted for a day of relaxation. We leisurely rose at 6:30 am and eased into our morning routine. 

Nestled in the comfort of the drawing room, Bhanu graciously served us steaming hot coffee. As we savored each sip, conversations drifted towards family matters. Soon, Banu thoughtfully arranged an easy chair on the balcony, allowing me to bask in the morning serenity, accompanied by the symphony of chirping birds and playful squirrels. It was a serene moment, immersed in nature's embrace, admiring the lush greenery and the graceful dance of birds. 

Our breakfast comprised adai, accompanied by an array of flavorful condiments like milaga podi, verkadalai podi, and flax seed podi, complemented by the sweetness of jaggery and the tanginess of curd—a truly gratifying start to the day. 

Post-refreshing baths, we took complete rest and were served a round of sweet lime juice followed by another round of sugarcane juice. we relished a hearty lunch,...

not just a lunch but I would say it as a feast with the menu consisting of payasam,cauli flower fry,potato curry,keerai kootu,pachadi,vadam, katthirikai sambar,Rasam and curd.

And as the afternoon lazily passed by, a brief nap rejuvenated us. 

After enjoying evening tea, we prepared for our journey back to Chennai. Saying farewell to Ramu, Banu, and Shylu, we reached the station by 7:30 pm to catch our train. Ramu came to station to see us off.

Safely returned to Chennai on 26th April.

Overall, our trip to Hubli and its environs was immensely enjoyable, greatly enhanced by the warm hospitality extended by Banu and Ramu.