Thursday, 6 August 2026

Visiting Sri Dasavathara Venkateswara Swamy Temple SC

Visiting Sri Dasavathara Venkateswara Swamy Temple SC

Sri Dasavathara Venkateswara Swamy Temple

The Sri Dasavathara Venkateswara Swamy Temple and Cultural Center in Columbia, South Carolina, is a vibrant spiritual destination for devotees and visitors across the region. Located on Two Notch Road, this Hindu temple serves as a welcoming hub for worship, community learning, and cultural connection.

Table of Contents

1. Main Deities and Divine Worship

The temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara (a form of Lord Vishnu) and honors the Dasavatara—the ten sacred incarnations of Lord Vishnu (Matsya, Kurma, Varaha, Narasimha, Vamana, Parashurama, Rama, Krishna, Buddha, and Kalki).

In addition to Lord Venkateshwara, regular worship and special pujas are conducted for:

  • Shiva Parivar (including Rudraabhishek during the holy month of Shravan)
  • Sri Rama Parivar
  • Shirdi Saibaba
  • Sri Vasavi Mata

2. Warm Hospitality and Welcoming Atmosphere

Visitors consistently highlight the calm energy and friendly environment at the temple:

  • Equal and Kind Treatment: Guests frequently note the exceptional hospitality of the temple priests (Poojari) and volunteers, who treat every visitor with respect and care.
  • Positive Energy: The temple offers a quiet, peaceful environment for anyone looking to meditate, pray, or reset mentally.
  • Community-Led Support: The temple was started by dedicated local devotees and continues to grow as a close-knit spiritual community.

3. Educational Tours and Community Outreach

The temple is not only a place of worship but also an educational resource for the broader South Carolina community:

  • Interfaith & Educational Visits: School groups and religion classes regularly visit the temple to learn about Hindu traditions, tolerance, and cultural practices.
  • Helpful Guidance: Temple hosts and priests actively guide guests and explain rituals, making it beginner-friendly for people of all faiths and backgrounds.

4. Special Pujas and Rituals

The temple offers a wide variety of traditional services throughout the week:

  • Special Blessings: Rituals like Jalabhishekam, Laxmi Puja, and Sai Baba Puja are conducted regularly.
  • Shravan Month Special: Visiting on Mondays during the month of Shravan is especially popular for experiencing the divine Rudraabhishek ceremony.

Useful Visitor Tips

  • Confirm Temple Timings: Because operating hours may vary or differ from third-party map listings, it is best to check with the temple directly or call ahead before your visit.
  • Location: The temple is currently situated at 9554 Two Notch Road in Columbia, SC.
  • Support Temple Growth: The temple center is currently working toward expanded facilities to serve more devotees—community donations and support are always welcome.

Visiting Hindu Temple and Cultural Center of South Carolina

Visiting Hindu Temple and Cultural Center of South Carolina

Hindu Temple and Cultural Center of South Carolina

If you are looking for a peaceful place to worship, connect with the community, or learn about Indian culture, the Hindu Temple and Cultural Center of South Carolina in Columbia is one of the best places to visit. Established almost 50 years ago, it serves as a central hub for Hindu families across Columbia, Charleston, and surrounding areas.

Table of Contents

1. A Peaceful and Divine Environment

The temple offers a calm and soothing atmosphere for anyone seeking mental peace and spiritual connection:

  • Serene Surroundings: The temple grounds are quiet, clean, and well-maintained.
  • Homely Feel: Visitors often share that stepping inside feels warm and welcoming, making it a comforting space for newcomers and long-time residents alike.
  • Open to Everyone: You do not need prior experience—just step in with an open mind to enjoy a peaceful visit.

2. Deities and Daily Worship Services

The temple houses idols of major Hindu deities, including Lord Shiva, Sri Durga Mata, and the Navagrahas:

  • Morning and Evening Aarti: Attending the Sunday morning Aarti or the vibrant evening Harathi offering is a highlight for many visitors.
  • Bhajans and Pujas: Daily bhajans and special rituals take place on dedicated days throughout the week.
  • Wise Priests: The temple priests (Panditji) are friendly, knowledgeable, and well-versed in chanting shlokas and performing traditional rituals.

3. Community Programs and Youth Activities

Beyond daily worship, the temple plays an active role in building community:

  • Hindu Yuva Sangh Gathering: Held every Sunday morning, this youth program focuses on the spiritual, mental, and physical development of children.
  • Festival Celebrations: Major Indian festivals are celebrated here with great joy, traditional music, colorful decorations (Alankaram), and delicious prasad (blessed food offerings).
  • Warm Community: The committee members, volunteers, and regular attendees are known for being friendly and welcoming to all guests.

4. Facilities for Personal Ceremonies

The temple complex includes an adjoining hall and flexible space available for the community:

  • Ritualistic Ceremonies: You can hold private pujas and traditional rituals on the premises.
  • Small Gatherings: The hall can accommodate small family functions and community meetings.

Useful Tips for Your Visit

  • Check the Schedule: Event programs, visitation hours, and special festival dates are regularly updated on the temple’s official website. Check online before planning your visit.
  • Be Open-Minded: Come with an open mind to fully enjoy the peaceful environment and evening prayers.
  • Bring Your Family: The temple is family-friendly, offering a positive atmosphere for children and adults alike.

Wednesday, 5 August 2026

Moolank (Mulank) in Numerology Personality Traits

Moolank (Mulank) in Numerology Personality Traits

Moolank in Numerology

Have you ever wondered why you act the way you do? Or why some people are natural leaders while others are calm and creative? While many people look to astrology and zodiac signs to answer these questions, Indian numerology offers another simple and fascinating tool: Moolank.

Also known as your Root Number or Driver Number, your Moolank is calculated directly from your day of birth. In Vedic numerology, numbers are not just symbols for counting; they carry unique vibrational energy. By understanding your Moolank, you can gain valuable insights into your personality traits, natural talents, and life path.

This guide breaks down what Moolank is, how to calculate yours, and what each number means for your daily life.

Table of Contents

How to Calculate Moolank

How to Calculate Your Moolank ?

Calculating your Moolank is very easy. You do not need complex math, and you only need one piece of information: the day of the month you were born.

The Rule

If you were born on a single-digit date (1st through 9th), that number is your Moolank. If you were born on a double-digit date (10th through 31st), simply add the two digits together until you get a single number between 1 and 9.

Simple Examples

  • Born on the 7th: Your Moolank is 7.
  • Born on the 14th: Add 1 + 4 = 5. Your Moolank is 5.
  • Born on the 29th: Add 2 + 9 = 11. Since 11 is still two digits, add 1 + 1 = 2. Your Moolank is 2.

What is the Difference between Moolank vs. Bhagyank ?

It is common to confuse Moolank with Bhagyank (Destiny or Life Path Number).

  • Your Moolank uses only the day you were born. It shows your core personality, internal nature, and basic instincts.
  • Your Bhagyank uses your entire birth date (Day + Month + Year). It represents your life journey and overall destiny.

The 9 Moolanks: Ruling Planets and Core Traits

In numerology, each number from 1 to 9 is ruled by a planet. This planetary connection influences your behavior and choices.

[YOUR BIRTH DAY]
(Add digits to 1-9)
[MOOLANK]
┌─────────┴─────────┐
▼ ▼
[Planet] [Core Traits]

Moolank 1: The Leader (Planet: Sun)

Birth Dates: 1, 10, 19, 28

Traits: People with Moolank 1 are natural leaders. You are independent, ambitious, and confident. You like to take charge and start new projects.

Challenges: You can sometimes appear overly firm, stubborn, or ego-driven.


Moolank 2: The Diplomat (Planet: Moon)

Birth Dates: 2, 11, 20, 29

Traits: Ruled by the Moon, you are gentle, caring, and intuitive. You value peace, work well in teams, and have high artistic creativity.

Challenges: You can be overly sensitive, moody, or prone to self-doubt.


Moolank 3: The Teacher (Planet: Jupiter)

Birth Dates: 3, 12, 21, 30

Traits: Jupiter brings wisdom and positivity. You are friendly, expressive, highly communicative, and love sharing knowledge with others.

Challenges: You might spread your energy too thin or struggle with overconfidence.


Moolank 4: The Organizer (Planet: Rahu)

Birth Dates: 4, 13, 22, 31

Traits: You are practical, hard-working, and focused on building a strong foundation. You think differently from others and often question traditional rules.

Challenges: You can be rigid, overly cautious, or easily misunderstood by peers.


Moolank 5: The Adventurer (Planet: Mercury)

Birth Dates: 5, 14, 23

Traits: Mercury gives you speed, intellect, and adaptability. You love freedom, travel, and change. You make friends quickly and are great at business.

Challenges: You may become restless, easily bored, or impatient.


Moolank 6: The Harmonizer (Planet: Venus)

Birth Dates: 6, 15, 24

Traits: Venus brings beauty, art, and love. You care deeply about family, home, and community. You have a warm personality and love comfortable surroundings.

Challenges: You can become overly protective, possessive, or spend too much on luxuries.


Moolank 7: The Thinker (Planet: Ketu)

Birth Dates: 7, 16, 25

Traits: You are analytical, quiet, and deeply spiritual. You like to research things deeply rather than accepting them on the surface.

Challenges: You may isolate yourself from others, overthink simple situations, or feel detached.


Moolank 8: The Builder (Planet: Saturn)

Birth Dates: 8, 17, 26

Traits: Saturn rewards hard work and discipline. You are strong-willed, goal-oriented, and capable of managing large responsibilities and finances.

Challenges: Success often comes after early struggles, and you can sometimes seem overly serious or blunt.


Moolank 9: The Warrior (Planet: Mars)

Birth Dates: 9, 18, 27

Traits: Mars provides high energy, courage, and determination. You are protective of loved ones and always ready to stand up for justice.

Challenges: You can have a quick temper, act impulsively, or get into unnecessary arguments.

Practical Applications in Daily Life

Knowing your Moolank is not just a fun fact; it can help you make better decisions in real life.

Area of Life Practical Application
Career Choices Moolank 1s thrive in management, 5s in sales or marketing, 6s in design or hospitality, and 7s in research or technical fields.
Relationships Understanding a partner's Moolank helps explain their communication style. For instance, a calm Moolank 2 might need more emotional reassurance than an independent Moolank 1.
Personal Growth By recognizing your Moolank's common challenges, you can actively work on blind spots, like learning patience or managing a temper.

Enhancements and Simple Remedies

In Indian numerology, small daily habits are thought to help balance your number's planetary energy:

  • Lucky Days and Colors: Each Moolank connects to specific days and colors (for example, Sunday and red/gold for Moolank 1; Friday and white/pink for Moolank 6). Wearing these colors on important days is considered beneficial.
  • Name Correction: If your Moolank clashes with your overall destiny goals, numerologists sometimes suggest slightly altering the spelling of your name to create harmony.
  • Mindset Focus: The best enhancement is self-awareness. Use your number to highlight strengths and improve weak areas.

Moolank In a Nutshell

Your Moolank serves as a useful lens for self-discovery. By calculating your root number, you can better understand your natural habits, career inclinations, and personal relationships. While a single number cannot define your entire life, it offers a simple roadmap to understanding who you are and how you interact with the world around you.

Disclaimer and Scientific Note:
Numerology, including the concept of Moolank, is an ancient belief system based on symbolic and spiritual interpretations of numbers. It is not supported or verified by modern scientific methods, empirical data, or peer-reviewed research. The ideas in this article are meant for entertainment, cultural appreciation, and personal reflection, and should not replace professional medical, legal, or financial advice.

Sunday, 2 August 2026

Nag Panchami in Canada and The Story Behind

Nag Panchami Celebratrion in Canada and The Story Behind

Long ago in India, a rich man had seven sons and their wives. The youngest wife was kind and wise. This is the simple folk story behind Nag Panchami, a festival that Hindus celebrate with love and respect for snakes.

Nag Panchami Story Illustration

Table of Contents

The Kind Act in the Fields

One day, the wives went to the fields to dig yellow clay. They saw a snake. The eldest wife wanted to kill it with her spade. But the youngest wife stopped her. She said, “Brother snake, wait. I will bring you milk.”

She went home but forgot because of housework. The next day she felt sorry. She took milk to the field. The snake was still waiting. She said sorry. The snake was happy because she called him “brother.” He said, “Ask for any gift.” She said, “Just come when I call you.”

Visit to Nag Lok

Later, in the rainy month, the other wives went to their parents’ homes. They teased the youngest wife because she had no parents’ home. Suddenly a young man came. He said he was her distant brother. The family believed him and let her go with him.

On the way, he became a big snake. He said, “I am the snake you saved. I am taking you to Nag Lok, the snake world.”

In Nag Lok she saw lots of gold and jewels. The snake’s mother welcomed her. After some days, the snake gave her beautiful jewellery, including a special necklace, and brought her home.

Snake God Blessing the Kind Woman

The Magic Necklace

Everyone was surprised by her rich gifts. The necklace was so beautiful that the queen wanted it. The king took it. When the queen wore it, it turned into a snake. She threw it away in fear.

The king called the young wife to the court and said she did magic. Then the snake god appeared. He said, “This necklace is my gift to my sister. Only she can wear it.”

The king and everyone bowed. They returned the necklace.

Birth of Nag Panchami

This happened on the fifth day (Panchami) of the bright half of the month of Shravan. From that day, people started celebrating Nag Panchami. Hindu women treat snakes as brothers and offer them milk and prayers.

Why This Tale Matters

The story teaches us that kindness to even small creatures can bring blessings. It shows the sacred bond between humans and nature.

How Nag Panchami is Celebrated in Canada

In Canada, Hindus mainly celebrate Nag Panchami at temples. Special pujas and abhishekams (ritual baths with milk) are offered to Naga (snake) deities or their images.

Temples such as Toronto Kalibari (in the Mississauga/Brampton area) hold a special Nag Panchami event. Toronto Sri Maha Ganapathy Temple also organises Nag & Garuda Panchami with special pooja for Lord Nagaraja.

Devotees visit these temples, offer milk, flowers and prayers, and take part in the rituals. Some families also do a simple puja at home. Unlike some places in India, live snakes are not used in public celebrations in Canada.

Saturday, 25 July 2026

Halifax Hindu Temple - Vedanta Ashram Society

Halifax Hindu Temple - Vedanta Ashram Society

Halifax Hindu Temple, also known as Vedanta Ashram Society, is the main Hindu temple in the Halifax and Dartmouth area. It serves as a central place for people to worship, celebrate festivals, and connect with the Indian community.

Halifax Hindu Temple Exterior

Table of Contents

Facilities at the Temple

The temple building is modern and has many useful facilities. It has an elevator for easy access. There are plenty of bathrooms. In the basement, you will find a library and an activity room.

The temple has a professional kitchen and a scullery room with a dishwasher. There is also a large dining room with tables and chairs where people can eat together. These facilities help the temple serve food to many devotees during events.

The temple is centrally located and easy to reach by bus. Note that there is no parking space at the building itself.

Prayer Hall at Halifax Hindu Temple

Regular Events and Poojas

Poojas happen every Sunday at the Halifax Hindu Temple. On these days, people from the community come together for worship. After the pooja, the temple serves prasadam, which is simple and good food. Many visitors enjoy this meal and say it tastes delicious.

The temple organizes events on special occasions and Indian festivals. These events include get-togethers and poojas followed by prasadam. People from different parts of India visit to celebrate together. It is a good place to enjoy the true joy of festivals.

Besides worship, the temple runs other activities. They offer Hindi language learning classes. They also hold arts classes on weekends. The community teaches young children classical music to help them stay connected to their roots.

Community and Socializing

Many reviews say the Halifax Hindu Temple is a great place to socialize and meet others in the community. The working committee members are kind and helpful. They provide support to everyone who visits.

Volunteering at the temple is fun for many people. The community feels warm and welcoming. One visitor said, “Once you start coming to the Hindu Temple, you’ll be used to it.” The temple encourages spirituality in Halifax and helps people feel connected while living away from India.

The temple is neat and clean. It maintains a good hygienic environment. Visitors find it quiet and well cared for. Many call it one of the most calm places they have visited.

Visitor Experiences

People who visit often feel blessed and peaceful. One person wrote that it is a place to gain peace of mind. Another said, “You will experience the bliss by mere presence of ourselves over there.”

The temple has auspicious idols and a huge hall for worship. During festivals, it becomes a hub for celebration. Visitors like the prasadam, which is Indian cuisine. Many recommend trying it.

Some visitors suggest bringing something the temple might need, such as fresh fruit or bananas, as a small contribution.

One visitor noted that recorded bhajans played at low volume feel better than live singing without rhythm on the mic. Overall, people enjoy their visits to the Temple very much.

Why Visit Halifax Hindu Temple?

  • It is the only major Hindu temple in the Halifax/Dartmouth area.
  • Perfect for worship, meditation, and festivals.
  • Good facilities including kitchen, dining, and elevator.
  • Strong community support and regular events.
  • Peaceful atmosphere with beautiful statues.

The Vedanta Ashram Society works hard to keep the temple clean and active. It brings people together for religious and cultural activities. Families, new visitors, and long-time devotees all find value here.

If you live in Halifax or are visiting, the Halifax Hindu Temple is worth going to. Check their Facebook page for open hours and upcoming events. Whether you want to pray, eat prasadam, celebrate a festival, or simply sit in a calm place, this temple welcomes everyone.

Location and Access: Centrally located with bus routes nearby.

Many visitors say it is a definite place to visit. The combination of beautiful idols, helpful people, and community events makes it special in the Maritimes. Come once and you may want to return again and again for the peace and sense of belonging it offers.

Sunday, 19 July 2026

Subramanya Ayappa Temple in Val-Morin

Subramanya Ayappa Temple in Val-Morin Quebec

If you are looking for peace, serenity, and a spiritual experience near Mont-Tremblant, the Subramanya Ayappa Temple in Val-Morin is a hidden gem in the mountains of Quebec. This beautiful South Indian-style temple offers a calm sanctuary surrounded by nature, making it an ideal place for meditation, prayer, and quiet reflection.

Subramanya Ayappa Temple in Val-Morin surrounded by mountains and greenery

Table of Contents

Location and Natural Setting

The Subramanya Ayappa Temple in Val-Morin sits on a hill surrounded by lush greenery and offers breathtaking mountain views. Located in Quebec’s popular cottage country near Mont-Tremblant, the scenic drive itself is part of the experience.

Visitors can reach the temple entrance via a short five-minute walk up steps or drive closer to the top. Ample parking is available on the property. Note that the walking path may be challenging for older visitors or those with mobility issues.

Scenic mountain view and pathway leading to Subramanya Ayappa Temple in Val-Morin

Temple Experience and Spiritual Atmosphere

The atmosphere at Subramanya Ayappa Temple Val-Morin is calm, serene, and naturally energized. The traditional South Indian architecture blends beautifully with the surrounding nature and is well-maintained.

Whether you are a devotee or a curious visitor, the temple welcomes everyone. It is an excellent place for meditation and quiet reflection, helping you escape the stress of daily life. The priests are patient and helpful, guiding visitors through rituals such as Archana and Abhishekam.

Rituals, Pongal Offerings and Community

One of the most unique aspects of the temple is the opportunity to prepare Pongal — a traditional rice and lentil dish — over an open flame. The temple provides a dedicated space where multiple groups can cook simultaneously, followed by sharing the meal with other devotees.

The temple conducts regular prayers and rituals throughout the week. On weekends, food offerings are commonly provided. Visitors are welcome to contribute food donations for Annathanam, and the temple offers organized support with receipts for donations.

Important Visiting Tips and Schedule

Planning your visit to Subramanya Ayappa Temple in Val-Morin is essential due to its mountainous location:

  • Seasonal Schedule: The temple usually closes during winter from end of November until April. Always check the latest information on their website or Google listing before traveling.
  • Daily Hours: The temple may close for a short afternoon break and reopen in the evening. Confirm timings before your visit.
  • Respect the Space: Maintain a calm and respectful environment. The grounds are kept clean — please help preserve this peaceful atmosphere.

Why Visit Subramanya Ayappa Temple Val-Morin

The Subramanya Ayappa Temple is more than a tourist spot — it is a place for the soul. Whether you come for rituals, to prepare Pongal, or simply to sit in silence and enjoy the mountain air, you will likely leave feeling refreshed and lighter.

In the beautiful Laurentian Mountains of Quebec, this serene temple offers a true spiritual escape. If you are in the Mont-Tremblant area during the warmer months, a visit to this hidden gem is highly recommended.

Have you visited the Subramanya Ayappa Temple in Val-Morin? Share your experience in the comments below!

Tuesday, 7 July 2026

Varahi Navaratri in 2026 in Canada

When is Varahi Navaratri in 2026 in Canada?

In 2026, Varahi Navaratri (also known as Ashadha Gupta Navratri) is celebrated fromWednesday, July 15, 2026, to Thursday, July 23, 2026.

What is Varahi Navaratri?

Navaratri is one of the most famous festivals in India. Most people know about the Navaratri that happens in autumn, filled with dancing and large festivals. However, did you know there are actually four different Navaratris in a year? One of the most special and deeply spiritual ones is called Varahi Navaratri.

Varahi Navaratri is a nine-night festival dedicated completely to Goddess Varahi. It takes place during the Hindu lunar month of Ashadha, which usually falls between June and July. This festival is unique because it is traditionally kept quiet and secret. Instead of big public parties, it focuses on deep prayer, meditation, and inner peace. For millions of Hindus living around the world, including a growing community in Canada, this festival is a beautiful time to slow down and connect with their spiritual roots.

Goddess Varahi

Who is Goddess Varahi?

Goddess Varahi is a powerful divine figure in Hinduism. She has a very unique appearance that makes her easy to recognize. She is described as having the face of a wild boar and the body of a human woman. She also has multiple arms holding different objects like a plow, a shield, and a sword. She rides on a fierce animal, usually a lion, a tiger, or a buffalo.

While her appearance might look fierce, Goddess Varahi is known as a deeply loving protector. In Hindu stories, she is the commander-in-chief of the divine army. She fights against evil forces and clears away negative energy. For her devotees, she acts like a protective mother who removes fear, grants courage, and helps people overcome difficult times in life.

Interesting Fact: The boar face of Goddess Varahi represents her ability to dig deep into the earth. Spiritually, this symbolizes digging away ignorance and pulling out deep-rooted problems from our lives.

The Indian Connection of Varahi Navaratri

The roots of this festival go back thousands of years to ancient India. Varahi Navaratri is very important in the Sri Vidya tradition, which is a highly respected path of worship in South India. It is closely linked to the worship of Goddess Durga. Goddess Varahi is also known as one of the "Sapta Matrikas," which means the Seven Mother Goddesses who protect the universe.

Because this festival falls in the month of Ashadha, it is also called Ashadha Gupta Navaratri. The word "Gupta" means secret or hidden. In ancient times, sages and priests would perform special rituals during these nine nights in quiet temples or deep inside forests. They believed that praying in secret makes the spiritual energy much stronger.

Varahi Navaratri Celebration in Canada

How Varahi Navaratri is Celebrated in Canada

Today, thousands of miles away from India, the Hindu diaspora in Canada keeps this ancient tradition alive. From the busy streets of Toronto and Vancouver to growing communities in Calgary and Montreal, Varahi Navaratri has become an important part of the Canadian multicultural calendar.

Varahi Navaratri Temple Pujas and Homams

Hindu temples across Canada host special rituals during these nine days. Priests perform pujas (prayers) and homams (sacred fire rituals). The statue of Goddess Varahi is decorated beautifully every day. Devotees gather in the evenings after work to hear the chanting of holy mantras.

Home Worship by Families

Many families observe the festival at home. They clean their houses, set up a small altar, light a traditional oil lamp, and offer simple food like boiled chickpeas (sundal), sweet rice, and fresh fruits.

Community and Online Events on Varahi Navaratri

Cultural groups organize online celebrations so people can join from their homes through video calls, mantra chanting, and spiritual talks.

Overcoming Challenges in Canada

Celebrating in Canada comes with challenges such as busy work schedules, no public holidays, and limited space in apartments for fire rituals. Devotees adapt by using smaller lamps, focusing on meditation, and visiting temples whenever possible.

Benefits Devotees Seek from Varahi Devi

People pray to Goddess Varahi for protection, courage, removal of obstacles, and prosperity.

Simple Ways to Celebrate at Home in Canada

  • Light a candle or oil lamp every morning or evening.
  • Offer fresh fruit with devotion.
  • Chant a simple mantra: “Om Shreem Hreem Kleem Varahi Devyai Namah”
  • Practice kindness and eat simple vegetarian food.

Conclusion: Why This Festival Matters Today

Varahi Navaratri is much more than just an old ritual. For the Indian diaspora living in Canada, it is a vital bridge that connects the past with the present. It helps parents teach their children about their roots and gives spiritual strength in a fast-paced life.

By celebrating Varahi Navaratri, Canadian Hindus honor their beautiful heritage and add to the rich cultural tapestry of Canada.