Sanatani Kashi.

" Ṛtu Vidyā: Ancient Science behind Menstrual Practices " by Sinu Joseph provides insightful information on ancient practices aimed at helping women's menstrual situation and overall health. I recommend reading this book, particularly for women and young girls who view their periods as an inconvenience or feel annoyed by this bodily function. The book carries a body-positive message, encouraging women to accept their monthly bleeding as a cleanse and reminding them that menstruation is tied to their overall health and not just fertility and reproduction. However, there were a few weak or misplaced parts of the book. For example, it could have been shorter, and it spends too much time praising Vedic culture. Chapters 9 (Chengannur Bhagavathy Temple) & Chapter 11 (Kamakya Temple) focus on the author's personal experiences and inspirations and may not be relevant to all readers. The author acknowledges the lack of modern research done on old practices of menstruation

Fast on the 11th day of Jyeshtha Krishna Paksha (the waning phase of the moon heading towards new moon) is Aparaa Ekaadas hi. The name Aparaa comes from the word Apar meaning immense or boundless. This day confers immense benefits on those who undertake the fast. Story in Short More than a story or a parable, this chapter is told as a conversation between Lord Krishna and King Yudhishthira, the eldest of the Pandavas. Lord Krishna lists out the advantages of this fast to Yudhishthira. There is no specific story. Lord Krishna highlights that observing a fast on this day can bring about immense benefits.  One does come across reference to a Mahabharata time story of King Mandhata, who ruled over the kingdom of Ayodhya and a poor farmer named Kuber when researching about Aparaa Ekaadashi. However, this story is not in the Ekaadashi Mahoutsav Varat Katha (published by Babu Madav Prasad Sharma, Varanasi). This is a good place to note that the reasons and inspirations for different people an