My Multi talented Hero........I call him Achan...

        Somehow I feel that I often mention about my Mom more in this blog. Perhaps she is my best friend can be one among the reasons. I have the freedom to discuss anything under the sun with her! I have never felt that she is older than me. Best friends, indeed!

        But, Dad? I never see my Dad like a friend. But someone whom I can always look up-to; my inspiration, my strength. It is better not to mention a fact that, " A Daughter is her Father's princess from the day she is born and a Father is always his daughter's first hero in life." Mine as well............ My Dad is my constant pillar of support and guidance. The only person whom I can approach when taking major decisions in life and I'm glad that he has always stood beside me with support, till date. He is a huge tree shading my brother and me all the time.

         People say that I resemble my Dad, and my brother like my Mom. During my childhood I always hated this comment! The childish me always wanted to look like my beautiful Mom. However, I always used to boast that I am intelligent like my father. Yes, I was too proud that my father was a genius in many aspects and silently happy that I had many characteristics similar to him. We both are creative, we draw and paint, we write, we stitch and we love Mathematics, to play with numbers! We have quite a few differences in opinion as well.

     

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        Many of Dad's attributes still fascinate me. One among them is the way he utilizes time. I have never seen him wasting time till date. Be it reading, writing, repairing or stitching , he is always engaged; no idle time. If there is anything to be repaired at home, my Dad is the first technician always approached. I always wonder how a first rank holder in Meteorology from CUSAT makes use of a sewing machine like a pro!

   

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         I was studying in my 5th or 6th grade to be precise, when we deiced to build a new home. My Dad was the sole architect and plan creator of this house. I can't explain the excitement I had when for the first time Dad showed me a hand drawn picture of our new home and explained about it! The name of the house was also decided beforehand. 'Woodnil'. The name defines it! A house constructed without utilizing a single piece of wood. An idea that struck my Scientist Dad when he was doing a research project on ' Impact of Deforestation on Hydrological Parameters'. The great visionary then foresaw that this dream home of our's will be an achievement. And yes, his prediction was correct. It got featured in the Limca Book of Records in the year 2009 . This was the first time when I witnessed his joy, pride and excitement personally. The happiness was evident on his face. After tiring, years of hard work and completing the construction of 'Woodnil' under his sole supervision, receiving an award is truly remarkable. Cheers Dad!

                                                

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        After retirement, when someone writes and publishes a literary work it can be just a result of a pastime activity. However, the situation was different in my Dad's case. He had written so many one-act-plays during his youthhood; creations as a result of sleepless nights when migraine made him remain awake. This activity somehow reduced the intensity of the throbbing headache. My Dad procrastinated in publishing these noteworthy dramas till his retirement. Thus, the book titled 'Monjula Monthakal' was released in 2016. 

        I should not forget to mention about the books, 'Nammude Anthareekshavum Kalavasthagadagangalum' and 'Woodnil & 101 Tips' published in 2012 and 2014 respectively before his retirement. The former is a guide on atmospheric conditions and climatic changes, a simple and interesting prose on nature and environment. The latter, as the name suggests give an insight about 'Woodnil and other tips' which can be used in home construction. This book also got featured in the Limca Book of Records as the first book on own previous record! But my favourites among these are 'Monjula Monthakal' and also 'Chelulla Chekuthanmar' published in 2019.

        Though both are humorous in genre, the latter consists of short stories. To some extend I feel that both have satirical sense of humor. My Dad's writing is truly commendable because I was unable to make out which chapter is the best in these books, incomparable! Hats off Dad!

        Another thing to be highlighted is the sketches printed in both the books were drawn and hand painted by my father himself. A multi talented human being indeed! Touch-wood. From anything to everything, he does single handedly, efficiently and cheerfully; long way to go Dad, my Achan! Keep inspiring us!...........

    

This too shall pass!...

        9 months!..the period I felt devastated and gloomy.

        Little 'S' was only 2 years old when I received the job appointment order to get uprooted to New Delhi. The news was totally appalling. My expectation was shattered in a span of seconds when I received the letter from the post man. Everything felt upside down. The thoughts were mainly about my little one. How will I cope to live in a new city deprived of my family?...Or should I take her along?..So many unanswered queries revolved around me at one single moment. I felt lost and scattered to bits!...

        But the only relief then was that I had my parents beside me. Apparently I was staying with them.

        The month of June,2018 it was. The appointment letter stated to join the New Delhi office within 15 days....

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         Till date I don't remember any single day in my childhood when I was staying away from my mother until I travelled for graduation interstate. She was always beside my brother and myself. There were umpteen times when my Dad had to go on official tour. But this beautiful nonpareil was our savior then. Infact, we fight; even now this write-up is an apology to the argument had. Usually, the person you argue the most is the person you love the most. Period.

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         Amma was always beside me inspite of all the hardships she faced in life. Abandoning her job after my arrival into this world was just one among them. 

         Contrary to my mother, I was setting my foot to employment leaving my 2 year old 2000 Kms. apart. Many unanswered queries were still lingering in my mind. The first and foremost was that whether I was doing the right thing. Will this be a mistake in my life?.

         Little 'S' had just started to speak. I will have to listen to her unclear vocabulary from a distance. The growth phase will be missed. How pathetic! I felt deeply broken. The only hope then was my Dad's promise that I can return at the earliest after availing the transfer. Infact, all of us anticipated my transfer very soon since I was a new mother. Eventually I kept my daughter in my parents safest hands and flew miles apart to work....

         The funniest part was that contradictory to what I was expecting the little one didn't bid adieu to me in tears. She was all happy and content. This innocence was a relief for me. Thank You dear one!..

          

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           Everything was different in New Delhi. The place,the climate, the people, their culture, custom, language, food ,etc. All seemed opposite to the place where I was born and brought up.  The Northern part of India is quite contrary to the Southern part of India. Life in that new city was tough for someone like me who was already depressed. Many a times I took leave from my job and flew back to my town just to have some peaceful time with my family , especially the little one.

            The vital lesson learned  then was when you are mentally enervated it affects the whole of yourself. I don't remember a single fortnight when I didn't consult the doctor. Literally sickness was my companion. Apparently, I lost pounds of weight. The bone throbbing body pain, the consistent night dry coughs, the often upset stomach, what more should a 28 year old have to face often. I cried my heart out, everywhere ranging from the hostel corridors to the office washroom hiding away from others to avoid sympathy. The mischievous toddler at the other side of the video call running to play... everything made me lost.

             But my nonpareil as always consoled me, motivated me and the best was she listened to me always. My mother!..Not even a single second she said that she was busy taking care of the child. Anytime when I wanted her she was silently listening to me, consoling my tears from the other side of the phone. She was/is more than the Almighty to me. I should not forget my Dad. The messages he sent me then, motivating me to hold onto my job, rather than resigning. These two saviors often repeated this quote.." This too shall pass". 

              Yes!...After 9 months of working at a foreign city I was fortunately availed transfer to the city of my choice. I owe it to all my superior officers and many other beautiful souls.

              Regardless I had only one single doubt while returning home. Will my little one love me the way she did before?..Will she forgive me for not being with her?...

              But life is beautiful, so are children. Her heart soothing hug and a kiss as soon as I said that I am not going back was only required for me to forget and her to forgive, those tormenting days of our lives.........

      

#Metoo....

         When the social media is preponderating with #metoo, let me reveal mine. My first...even before adolescence, when I hardly knew that there are sexual perverts pervasive in this society....
         It was during my 6th grade summer vacations. Due to my keen interest in sketching and painting, my parents enrolled me in an art class for a period of two months. They were very insistent that I ought to travel alone by a bus to get there. Though initially reluctant, finally I agreed. It was advised that this was the first step towards being strong and independent. Myself, very shy and reserved, had lot of inhibitions back then....The scenario is different today. Period.
         With lot of anxiety, I started my daily rides alone. Though hesitant, I enjoyed it as days passed by....
         Finally the day arrived. The bus was packed. There was no room for an apple to fall. The short and stout me was sandwiched among the co-passengers. Suddenly I realized that an elderly man has placed his hands on my body. That moment!!....I neither could cry nor scream. I only felt an uneasiness because I didn't understand it's extent at that split second....Good Lord!...After alighting from the bus, this man walked beside me with his hands on my shoulder and later walked away. I was literally dumbstruck! Who the hell was he?...a stranger or someone familiar was the only thought in my mind. As usual I attended the class with a disturbed mind...
         Back home, after returning I cried my hearts out. I narrated everything happened to them and warned them not to publicize the incident even to our well wishers. The only feeling I had then was a sense of shame and awkwardness!....
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       Years passed. Today, I have come through many such situations....some retorted;some silent. They have all made me robust and impregnable.
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       Though there are many hash tags with 'me too' movement engulfing the media, Women are we safe tomorrow?...including my toddler daughter!!

The Talc Affair....

          It was a usual day at work. Suddenly I got a whiff of a scent..that mellow fragrance.....the scent which holds vivid memories....'Yardley'!...the centuries old talcum powder. It still didn't change a bit...that same passionate smell!
          My earliest memory of that merchandise goes to my 'P Amma'(let us call her so for the time being), my Amma's Aunt. She resided along with her husband beside our house. Their house was more of mine, rather than a neighbour. Then, when I was a shy and reserved child, P Amma always came to my rescue being my playmate. There were days when I used to play even the game 'Catch the Ball' with the lady in her late sixties!
         'Yardley' was her constant companion. Everyday after bath her wrinkled face was adorned in the white talc.It's application was too unconcealed that it often made us laugh looking at her. The powder, the red bindi and the oiled tresses, these three attributes made her looks distinct and genuine. Her age beguiling looks were really an asset.
        This 'Yardley' in a similar manner is very much associated to Amma. Like her Aunt, Amma is also very much in companionship with this product unlike myself who uses it only when I get those bizarre stares from her which often means "No talc?!"...Dear concealer....u never win!
        Perhaps in Kerala I believe there are many such Ammas and P Ammas who have a fervent relationship with this after shower product. Though 'Yardley' is prevalent among the best sellers, there are many other talcum powder brands which are still reigning in the market to enhance the beauty of the women generations of yesterday, today and tomorrow. Period.
        Some things inherited are so. Even if we feel like discarding we keep them close to our heart and continue to use them. At times it helps in cherishing the good old memories of some beautiful people and relishing their presence even in their absence.

Travel....

        Finally or surprisingly I got a job...all of a sudden! After much hype, the posting is at New Delhi, the capital of India. From the Southern tip of India I'm gonna travel to the Northern part of India...A hectic 3 days travel by train or 9 hours journey by flight (unavailability of  direct flight is a point to be noted). Despite of the hour bound journey, I enjoy travelling. My profound gratitude to my father for instilling this interest in me.
                                                     
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         Those school summer vacations, the long gap of 2 months..........Luckily, we have our father who plans a tour prior to our holidays. Evey year before our Annual Examination, Dad will orate us a proforma of tasks to be done during the vacation. A family excursion or tour is mostly a mandatory one. The others included are sending my brother and myself to educational camps, creative classes, things to be done at home, etc. Amma is also included in the process of decision making... A vague idea of the place to be visited will be provided before the examination. As soon as it commences Dad will announce the complete itinerary of the tour programme. I still remember the inquisitiveness we had till that day arrives.....and then the total excitement begins!...We are ready for an expedition together as a family to a new place to explore, seek and learn.
         In this manner, we have travelled to umpteen places; at least when compared to my friends who had no much chances during childhood to travel with their family. Dad used to plan everything in advance so that the travel expenses will not exceed our financial budget. Then when we had to keep in mind that our 'Royal CHETAK' scooter's petrol has to be filled full!! So most of the journeys were constricted within the country.
         Not only these journeys had given me an opportunity to spend quality time with my family and nurture our bonding with each other, but also understand the culture, language, food habits, values, etc of each State I had visited.
        Cities like Bengaluru which taught me how serenity and progression can move side by side..the double decker buses, the peaceful gardens!....Ooty/Kodiakanal for how weather changes according to topography, when back in Kerala there is a different climate...and the mesmerising tea plantations spread over there!........Trichi/Tanjavur where the sun can be too piercing , the enchanting temple architecture to the finger licking sambhar vadas!......Idukki/Munnar, the pride of Kerala, the most sought after tourist destination in South India!....Lakshadweep, my first visit to an island, to understand what a lagoon is and to feel the exhilarating sea breeze!....many such travel destinations to the list!!
        By enjoying these journeys together Dad has ingrained in me the interest of travelling and exploring new zones.

              "Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer." - Anonymous

     Just like my father, let me entrench this pleasure in my daughter too!

         

The Name Change!....

        I am unique. I am different. I am special. I have an identity. I have a name.
        Yes, we all have a name which makes us unique, different and special! Our names play an important role in developing an identity of one's self. Here in my country, each one of us is addressed mostly with our first name rather than surname.
         I myself wish and try to address someone with his/ her name in the correct pronunciation. I believe that they themselves will wish to be known so. The sole reason for this is the incorrect pronunciation of my name!...Tears....
         Luckily, I live n Kerala where majority of the people have some pronunciation problems....I beleve so!!...
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         My parents have named me 'RAKHI'. I love my name. But, unfortunately I live in a society where they address me as 'RAGI' or 'RAGHI' or 'RAKI'....mostly..!
         I strongly believe that this situation is not  gonna change. But, what about my identity?...My name plays a major part in it. Initially this difference in notation evoked tears to roll down my cheeks, then hatred and lately frustration!
         But, what is the seen outside Kerala?..Different...or good.
        India, the country which proudly ushers about the Unity in Diversity, has 29 states and 7 union territories. Including my state, I am familiar with 6 states or the citizens of these states. If they can pronounce my name correctly, why not Kerala?...Not everyone, but the truth is majority!
        I am sure that there are so many like me facing the same problem. Will the situation change?...I doubt...
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        My little one will have to face the same problem...Apologies to her!..How foolish was I to name her 'Samyakha'. The same 'KHA'  problem persists!....

Intermisson!.....

       It was a long break...Yes...more than a year!..It was all because of her...She is the absolute reason for my absence in peeking into this blog of mine. I weren't even possible to play peekaboo here...She being the sole responsibility. You have to admit it my 18 month old daughter!
       You little one has played, is playing and will play(I believe) a major role in my transformation both physically and emotionally.
       However, I'm secretly happy that there is no much change to me physically. Neither have I put on weight nor lost, post pregnancy....unlike my society wishes to see women post pregnancy...the baby fat still evident enough!!..Sorry my 'so called' society. I'm stll in shape...still healthy. Glad that I have such genes inherited from my Mom!...
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     The period was too long...15 months of managing her all by myself along with my husband's support...Neither with the help of a caregiver nor a housemaid. A sense of pride dwells within me at this moment. I took care or still cares of my first born solely! Fortunate enough that there are her sweetest grandparents, my friends, well wishers, etc. at the other end who are always there for us!....
     How beautiful is life!!..Like you, even I'm glad that the Almighty is showering us blessings and pondering those amazing moments amongst us. The hymn from my school days echoes...
                                        "When upon life's billows you are tempest tossed,
                                         When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
                                         Count your many blessings, name them one by one,
                                         And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done......
                                         ...............................................................................
                                         Count your blessings name them one by one............"

Stay flawed....Stay beautiful.....!

         "You are what you eat."...This quote was something which I heard during my schooldays....the usual narrator being my Mom.

          While in college it was replaced with.."You are what you wear."....the beginning of the casual teenage dressed up era, when hip-hop to multitude of colours splashed in the campus world!

           But, it was never.."You are what you are masked." or to be more precise, "You are to be concealed."

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          Girls, as teenage arrives the pimples and acne begin to pop up. Those beautiful red, bulged three dimensional bumps!..Luckily, some are devoid of these protuberances. But, when you are affected, there begins the drama....How to conceal?...

            In my case, it was always occasional and still is. During the adolescent age when I did get few pimples, it was a total stranger to me. All disturbed and distracted..But, gladly Amma had some home remedies to get rid of them and my Dad's advice as not to give much attention, both together worked for me.

           I always love to dress up. This bug had bitten me off during college days. I give much importance to clothes then and now and remains to stay beautiful in my own perspective; though I am not a fashionista. A well combed hair, a dash of kajal and at times a lip colour...that's it!..I'm done!..

            But I have seen many in the adolescent age to much older ones concealed quite enough to hide all their flaws. A flawless skin is what they dream of. Whatever they use from concealer, foundation, blush, etc. to the many more substances which I am literally unaware of shields off their natural skin...similar to camouflaging!...

            How wonderful it is to remain without any make up...Your flawed skin, be it oily or dry, fair or dark, pimpled or devoid of them, scar-ful or scar-less....it is amazing to remain 'the original'!..

           I have seen people who are concealed or masked even in the shelter of their homes...with full on make up. Is this what is called beauty?...Did the Almighty create oneself to remain under the layered shield on their face?....Many a times I wish to see them at least once in life devoid of this disguised appearance......to mesmerize in their natural beauty...to love their flawed skin and to enjoy it from dawn to dusk!!...

            Let us appreciate the street vendors, the rag pickers, the laborers....for their unique identity...their unique skin with not a pinch to camouflage!..

           Stay unique, stay original..because "You are what you are."........You are beautiful! 

 

The Empty Mailbox!!....

         It is the festive season...Christmas and New Year round the corner. Colorfully lit stars mark the journey of Christmas season and finally the pyrotechnics on the New Year eve will give an end to the month long celebration dramatically!..
         Gladly, in spite of the busy schedule we do receive a text message, an email or the latest invention of Whats-app message with a forwarded wish during these days. The same wish which gets circulated to all in a cyclic form!
         Everybody when busy checking their inbox, forgets the mailbox mounted near the front door....Literally it remains empty always!!
         But, there were times when I had a whole bunch of cards waiting for me to be read in the mailbox. Receiving a beautiful card and sending another in return......Those goodwill days!...I miss them.
         I remember when Amma and myself used to wait for my half yearly examination to conclude and then take me out to buy those wonderful cards. She always insisted me to be selective when buying the cards. There were some cards selected keeping in mind the character and taste of the recipient. Along with family- friends and relatives, I too used to sent a few cards to my classmates. Their mailing addresses were carefully jotted down on the last day of the examination with a teddy hug and a prospective wish to meet them the next year.
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          The cards were with utmost care and attention designated to the concerned person with individual handwritten messages. It was my duty to paste the stamp on it with Dad's instruction. Then, stamps were always available at home. Dad kept them in stock; unlike these days. I doubt whether the present generation will be ever able to feel them! I remember the posts to foreign nations were given more priority and care, with more number of stamps on it. Then when I couldn't figure out the reason for it!
          The cards used to flood our mailbox as soon as the vacation starts, mostly a week ahead of Christmas. We even did receive some cards a week after New Year Celebration. All credits to the timely postal service in India!!
          There had been times when we would receive at least a card each day or a handwritten message in the form of inland. Those days the courier service was not much common and everybody had to rely on posts. Indeed there were some recipients who used to make a call and thank us for the note worthy deed and vice versa.
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          Those days have changed...Technology has improved to a much wider extent than our limits.....Each and every material substance has undergone improvisation!..But, of late I miss those undeveloped little compounds which gave me inner joy...
          The mailbox in no time will be abandoned! Though emails and SMS spread a smile on our face, I really feel it lacks the sentimental attachment, love, the joy of concern and care...and most importantly the sense of remembrance!!....

What if chicken was 'Murghmatha'??

P.S. : This is not meant to hurt anyone's sentiments or feelings. This is just my view. I therefore take an anticipatory bail!

           

           Day by day the issue regarding the beef ban is increasing. Gladly, I am in the southern part of India where such issues are less affected...Kerala, being the safest zone. 

           I am not a beef person...previously hated it's odour, but not against it. Everybody in the family loves it. The aroma...the spicy tangy taste to the tenderness of the meat!..I remember those Sundays when beef was the main dish in the menu, being my brother's favourite and today my husbands too. Somehow, I stayed away from it and continues the same. Not only due to the taste, but also the notion which I have, "Red meat is unhealthy!".

            But, chicken on the other side was acceptable! Though not an ardent lover, I enjoyed having it. Chicken was/is also an occasional visitor at home. Fish dominates.

            Unlike fish, I always feel chicken a tasteless edible substance without any significant taste. I cannot assume of having it cooked devoid of the spices, similar to the continental dishes....Chicken coated in a thick gravy with the rich Indian spices!...mouth-watering...finger licking good!!

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           The beef ban arises on the occasion when, of late ' some' consider this animal to be God, 'Gomatha' and are die-hard worshipers!...To be more precise, it can be 'started considering' as earlier there were no such issues prevailing in India!!

            Beef is somehow much seldom bought in households. A very occasional dish. On the contrary, chicken is often consumed by the Indian non-vegetarian folks....And if suddenly there is a chicken prohibition embarked?!.....there will be a similar situation like the state of emergency!..........

           Chicken, considered as the most 'shahi' dish or the elite dish if banned, India will see just a march of protestants!...Unfortunately the non-vegetarian restaurants will be shut down due to the chicken dominance on the menu card.... 

           The kids who are always fond of it will cry in pain and misery with screams aloud!..

           The matter will be much worse in South India. Especially in Kerala where poultry farms are visible at every nook and corner of the town. The poor butcher community, their joblessness will lead to money loss; hence begins the search of new means to feed and to be fed!

            If chicken is banned, then what about eggs??...The same too will be simultaneously prohibited..... A satirical situation!! The eggs once considered as the complete source of nutrients will just transform into another chick!

            Finally, the increased number of hens in the city will lead mankind to start taming them as a pet at home....The most hilarious scenario where every house will have at least one hen as a pet!!

            The chicken ban will lead to much chaos and disturbances, more hyped than the beef ban. Gradually India will turn into a vegan country if fish also gets banned!!...Sadly there will be a decrease in foreign tourists  as well!!...........

              So lets hope such bans never embark and those already prevailing to be lifted!!...Pray for a better tomorrow....

            

   

The Monetary Chimera.....!

          I love dreaming....day dreaming to be precise. Dreams are a kind of hope boosters which in turn leads to optimism. On the contrary, some bizarre dreams can be the most weird..!...nightmares!....I had had bizarre dreams too which completely lands me in a mysterious wonderland. The best one which I could recall now is when I dreamt of Mr. George W. Bush visiting my house....when the terrace was converted into an aerodrome; concluding to the immense appreciation he made on the ripe jack fruit consumed!!...
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         Eyes tight shut and opening to a million dollar bucks!...An awestruck wonder surrounds....A dream of every common man, which always remain unaccomplished; a chimera. If at all such a mysterious incident happens, I will create a never-ending to do list; or will I??......
         Money is always necessary...an essential commodity. Every single penny earned is a kind of blessing, a value to be saved, spend wisely.
         One million dollar!!....Indeed a huge sum! But, to be frank I am illiterate about it's value in Indian money, though I know it exceeds the five numerical digits. How much exactly?...clueless...
         It never depends on the amount received, how much ever I receive the first thing which happens is a wide grin....my happy twenty eight teeth shining with pride and ecstasy!!
          Sensitive in nature I express all my emotions at the earliest...very much clearly depicted on my 'circular' face..... Genes they are!
          So now when I see a million dollar bucks together for the first time, I might smile....simultaneously I might faint too!....I believe when the unexpected happens in a woman's life, the utmost queer reactions occur...A while later, when the complete scenario is back in action, I might stare at the money thinking about the probabilities that can be made....
          Buy a new house.....Buy a car....
          A shopaholic like me can speed to the nearby mall too with some amount...Clothing, accessories, shoes, bags, watches,etc....Everything I can carry...all bought in a single stretch!
          Buy the best technological devices (even though I am not a techno savvy)....
          Spend some money to buy the best furniture...My generous mind will also gift my kith and kin some amazing items, though not in the form of money as such!...Of course charity will also given some priority. And finally the remaining to invest in a bank, fixed deposit!!
          All, except the latter will remain as unfulfilled mere wishes.
          After the initial shock has been subsided, I will only try to invest the huge amount in a bank. The most unexpected to the most ravishing surprises awaits each one of us....So better save it for the future and relax, than indulging in the present happiness blindfolded!...Wait and watch the future...have faith!!..........


This post is a part of Write Over the Weekend, an initiative for Indian Bloggers by BlogAdda.

The Bengali love!...

       "Hey, my bro is getting married!"....
       "Yes, all fixed!....the alliance is all the way from Kolkata."...
       "He found her all by himself....he has fallen in love!"
    The very excited little sis screamed via the phone. A Bengali bride to place her footsteps in the house! Being educated in Maharashtra she was quite familiar with the North Indians and of course Hindi fluency was at the peak....Confident enough to begin a conversation with her Bengali Bhabi!
                                                                  ******
      That was about three years back when we were blessed with a new member...A bundle of special memories!
      Dusssehra, Vijayadashmi and Durga Pooja...these festivities remind me of the first time when I visited Kolkata. Regardless of my visits for the marital functions, my travel to the city of joy to experience and explore the Durga pooja celebration was splendid.
      The Pandal hopping began from the first day we reached. It was magnificent!!...The Bengali creativity, crafstmanship and all artistic skills could be sensed through theses Pandal structures. They cannot just be described as beautiful. To be precise, they were unique masterpieces with notable intricacy and the highlighted idol of Goddess Durga, the centre of attraction.

        The vivid lights..the remarkable soothing music of eminent Bengali musicians which add to the background score.....Everything together immerses oneself in the joyous environment leaving behind all those sufferings, worries and grievances.
        The culture, the custom and the tradition of Bengal is much highlighted in these Pandals. We, coming all the way from the very own God's own Country was quite strange to these ornamentation then!...

        The Pandal hopping was a lifetime experience for us. But, Amma and myself had glances on something else as well!!....The vibrant Bengal cotton sarees draped on women...the way they dressed! Along with the deity, they themselves were decorated well...beautiful enough! The color red dominated. Majority of the women were draped in a red coloured saree with a prominent red bindhi and sindoor which signifies the married. Unique!!...We remained spectators.

         The exquisite Bengal cotton saree is a must have. But, we had to leave empty handed then due to the closed shops for the pooja celebration.

         The cuisine is also a masterpiece there! The scrumptious meal we had...the mouth watering, tempting delicacies....and finally the concluder of the meal...the dessert...The very sweet rasgullas to the tanda-tanda misht doi!!

         The experience will forever be memorable.... And luckily, that was not the end. We had even more chances to visit Kolkata, indulge in it's beauty and pack home a bundle of Bengal cotton sarees and other varieties!...

         At this moment, I owe my bro for the Bengali love! 

        

The Mixture...

            The spicy Bengali mixture or be it the typical Mysore mixture or the sweet and salt one...the crunchiness to munch upon...an any time snack! The amalgamation of a variety of components to create this delicacy! I am quite choosy to pick up 'that' one particular component from this mixture....peanut being the luckiest always. This is the same in the case of the so called linguistic mixture too....I stick to one language in the mixture!!
            The mixing up of two or more languages in a conversation is quite common these days. But, sorry I am totally against it and is indeed irksome. Somehow I feel that this trait is not natural and has been adapted to show off their 'linguistic skills'!
             It always happen when an individual begins a conversation in one particular language, later combines a foreign language and finally concludes in the former. This in fact makes the listener reply in this similar manner to showcase the latter's 'linguistic skills'...This is common when a conversation begins in an indigenous language when mostly English arises in midst of it.
              I always believe that no matter how polished one's vocabulary is, it is highly appreciative to begin and conclude a speech in a single language. It is an irony to show off one's English speaking skills there. It is rather better to remain silent. Previously this was quite common or natural among the celebrity actresses adopted from a different state.......thanks to the frequent interview telecasts.
              The worst part is that, some consider this as a self-conceit in showcasing their minimal skills in indigenous languages when compared to English!...Then why a mixture?...Stick to a single element here being a language! Hoping for the growth of an indigenous society unacceptable to such changes!!..  
               Stay unique!

Celebrate the beauty of life...

P.S. : This is rather not to promote a jewellery brand which apparently has the same tag line!
          Life.....the widest arena with utmost events and celebrations. In fact, life is an eventful playhouse with an amalgamation of joy and sorrow with distinct characters involved. Blessed that we are born as human beings....confounding with the fate of other existing creatures; bizarre!.......
          Human beings, the only creature in this universe who values money!....go to any extent for a productive income...and finally saves it. 'Save it!'...something that has been practised since ages. Money substantially has to be saved considering the future cause. But, when it exceeds a limit; unfortunate enough to live in this world to enjoy the present....to live life to the fullest!! A contradiction with the current situation were emotions are saved and when emoticons are spend.....and to exist like other creatures than to experience the joy of living!.....
          Though born to a middle class family, I am glad that my Dad never insisted me to be a miser. I was not born with a silver spoon; my Dad too saves money, made us aware about the value of a single penny. Regardless of this, life was celebrated...we never missed a single occasion to celebrate and still continues. Birthdays to anniversaries....New Year to Christmas....Onam to Vishu...none was excluded, period.
          Lately, I learnt that this is not the situation elsewhere. People with the mindset to avoid occasional celebrations with senseless justification of saving money! When even the major festivals are avoided just to save money!...Or when you abandon the birthday celebrations, the event to rejoice ones birth? These memorable days which will be vivid for a lifetime...all to be avoided considering only the expenditure!?....
           Everything depends on us...Enjoy with the maximum expense or the minimum. But, in the end both will be remarkable, memorable till the journey continues despite any differentiation. I do remember a quote...
                "The miser, starving his brother's body,
                  Starves also his own soul, and at death
                  Shall creep out of his great estate of
                  Injustice, poor and naked and miserable."
                                                   -Theodore Parker
           Rich or poor, miser or spendthrift, celebrate the beauty of life...experience the inner joy and cherish the wonderful memories!...
        

What will I eat??.......

       Food.....the varicoloured temptation with lip smacking aroma arising!...this is how I can define it.
       To some, food is a mode of joy and leisure....to some, it is a means of uprising and a mode of resistance to the hazardous....and there are some who consider it a therapeutic to de-stress and relax......and last but not the least who perceive it just as a fuel for the survival!!
       Irrespective of what we eat today, I believe childhood food memories are the best....Maa ke haath ka khaana....now and then it is the best!... The dollops of ghee spread on the crispy dosa, the double poached eggs with innovative toppings, the scrumptious biriyani, the sweetest dessert with some extra added love, anything it can be; feast of delicacies ranging from breakfast-lunch-tea time snacks-dinner, everything is the best. I literally believe that the first Master Chef we meet in life is always our Mom.
       My adorable Amma is no way behind.
       I remember those days when I could sense the aroma of the home made evening snacks just by entering my house compound after school. I still wonder how she managed to make such varied snacks on each day with much ease and expertise. Most of the dishes were prepared keeping in mind the health benefits of them and my Amma always made sure that we kids empty our dishes and fill our bellies to the maximum.
       Every time when I made fuss to have food, she said, "It is good for your health...It consists of ...(ranging from proteins/ minerals/vitamins, etc. to all that I had studied in my lower primary classes)." Educated Moms are at times annoying!!..:D
       This was the scenario almost six-seven years back. Today, it is different. Lately, when I discuss with my Mom of what I cook for myself and my husband, the quickest reply comes, "Don't have it!..Is it pesticide free ?...It is poison coated!...It might be adulterated!...Soak it in salt-turmeric water for hours!....Did you wash it well?.....Is it of a good brand?....Was it sealed properly?..." It continues.....
      And in turn I have to think twice before cooking.......I have afterthoughts....Is/was it safe?...not adulterated?...devoid of chemicals?...It usually happens that whatever I eat these days are either adulterated or stuck with chemicals......Misery!!
       The miserable plight of the mankind! Once when fruits and vegetables were considered the best source of nutrients are extremely dangerous today, due to the pesticides ....and the pulses, cereals, etc. are mostly adulterated. Every individual is very much aware of all this; I really appreciate the move of the media in this. The rising population is very much concerned about all this.
       But, is there a remedy? How can we stop it? When the Government encourages to farm vegetables in one's household how far can it be successful and what can be done to the residents living in apartments? Where is the space provided?...
       What can be done to stop adulteration? In this fast paced world are we genuinely stopping by to check this?...
        I doubt whether there might be a generation in future who says, "Chemicals in food?!...Are you kidding?...Nothing to bother..My body is resistant!!..."

The girl on the train.........

      Here, the protagonist is not Rachel as in Paula Hawkins' novel. The plot is completely based on me. I had neither read the novel!
     My solitary train journey experiences....those journeys which made me a more confident and strong individual...
     Studies made me an avid traveler! Three years of Karnataka-Kerala and two years of Maharashtra-Kerala transfer made me proficient in understanding the geography of these states. Observing is learning; which I wish should have done during my school days...then when only scoring good marks was only the target!
      My miser Dad with an eye on making me understand the value of money was always reluctant to the air transportation. Bus is always annoying to me. I can't imagine travelling hours being seated at the same place. Hence, I had to stick to train.
     Those blissful days!..Studies in par with fun and enjoyment. Though my studious soul instilled in me from a younger age kept me busy with the assignments, on contrary when my counter parts preferred photostats! But, still I enjoyed.
     The pre announced vacation period when my train ticket reservation would be done in advance or those unexpected holidays when I had to hit the 'tatkal' reservation queue speeding to the railway station.....and finally when the train reaches the destination...eternal happiness!!...Pleasing memories to cherish forever!
      It is often advertised about how unsafe it is to talk to strangers on train or as a precautionary move. Due to this and my preference, I enjoyed sitting alone accompanied by a book or playing some music or at times just observing the motion around me.
      But there had been strange incidents when people irrespective of their gender or age begin a conversation with me. However, I hate that moment; similar to a foreign army subjugating a colony! Many a times I wished I could hedge them. A nod or smile will in turn result in the beginning of a conversation! Apparently when it is to a reserved person like me, the latter eventually concludes it at the earliest...Glad I am less spoken!
      Somehow there are loquacious minds which converses on a simple subject which later explodes to a much higher level. There had been incidents when I just wanted to scream loud and inform them how unethical it is to speak to strangers on train! But, my well mannered etiquette kept me 'mum'...
     Those were the days when I was 'single'. These days when I am accompanied by my husband, the scene is different. There are times when I actually wanted to converse to my co-traveler and when he knowingly avoids me!...Is it because of the same feeling which I had earlier?...to follow the ethics?!...Or is it that I am beside a shadow of a man?...Are only young girls the victims of such arising conversations on train?!...Clueless!!
   
  

1,2,3...........the endless count of 'likes' !!

         Facebook!.......the most popular, with the most widespread usage and at times the most powerful social networking site to influence mankind!
         I wonder whether Mark Zuckerberg when launched this platform then in 2004 might had ever imagined about it's huge success now. 2004 was far behind the days when I started using it...2010. I clearly remember those days when permission was obtained from parents to get signed up. To me it is an arena to spend time; with networking itself as it's much applauded merit, to keep in touch with those old buddies and childhood sweethearts.
        Since 2010, I had had immense online chats with those schoolmates whom I had conversed since ages; after school or during school!...Glad that I was typecast-ed as a shy and reserved kid back then in school!
        Anything and everything can be posted in Facebook; share pictures, important announcements, lifetime achievements and even a platform for micro blogging alike twitter.
         I am never against Facebook...the best means to stay interconnected and maintain the humane bond. But, is it high time that the word 'privacy' has lost it's ultimate meaning and when Facebook is directly or indirectly involved in this!
         Even I did and do continue to post my snaps in this site. I eagerly wait to count the number of 'likes' received for it. But, it was only recently I had an after thought....Are these likes much vital in our day to day life? Or is it necessary to showcase one's very personal snap to others?
         May be a mere sharing with well-wishers. But, are these posts liked and appreciated genuinely, when Adam and Eve themselves were jealous and selfish then?
         The bitter part is that when people depend on this social networking site even to express love and gratitude to their dear and near. The worst is seen on all those 'celebratory days' like Father's day, Mother's day, Valentine's day.....the endless list.
          Today I cherish those good old days when I used to accompany my Mom to buy those beautiful cards engraved with spellbound quotes. I myself hardly buy cards these days. But, never depend on Facebook for the same. Because these are meant to be personal. I believe a very private message is far behind a Facebook post!
         Recently I saw a post on Mother's day wherein the person involved had quoted,"All have posted, so why not I?" Needless to say, there should have been a post which said, 'Graphic imitations are punishable!'
         So at the end is the present generation unaware of their personal space? Is the man craving for a space...a space for oneself wherein nobody else can interfere in their uncommon lifestyle or is he eager to popularize his close-knit zone to the outer world?....
         Are the 'likes' received for our pic more important when the Almighty himself loves you the most and is the reason for your existence today?

  

Mother Tongue......Are we gonna miss you?!

         I had to go nine years down the memory lane when thought about this topic. Those days when everything and everyone were the best....my childhood...my schooldays...!
         Being educated in a convent school it was mandatory to speak in English inside the school campus. If I  am not wrong, this was practiced only in this prestigious institution in the city. It was a matter of pride then for us. I still remember that we were fined then, when found speaking in our mother tongue in school except during the language classes. This to some extend has helped in improving my English language speaking skills in the later walks of life.
         But, at home it was even more mandatory or natural to use my mother tongue. I enjoyed it more as I felt this was the language of my heart; straight from my inner soul...listening to it from the day I was born.
         Lately I believe the scene is far more different!.....
         After a tranquil period off from hip hop parties, weddings and family gatherings, I had to attend one such family function recently. All have flown from miles abroad back to their home town to attend this and hence, I was pleased to meet my relatives to whom I had spoken since ages. Past, present and future generations all at a single venue!...loved the moment...!
         But the sight of the future generation was indeed perplexing to me.....because I could see all the little munchkins conversing in English rather than their mother tongue! The children seemed to be illiterate regarding the mother tongue aspect.
        Settled in a metropolitan city, I had seen such practices earlier too. I often watch the kid-parent conversation in English and think about the vanishing usage of mother tongue.....and remain clueless about the reason for this change.
         Proficiency in any language is always a credit. But does that mean to completely stop speaking in one's mother tongue?
         Even today I believe that English is a foreign language and it is high time to conserve one's indigenous language. I doubt if this situation continues will Indian languages be predominated by English?
         I envy my school days when clock strikes four in the evening, kids speeding out of the campus and start their never ending chit chats in the language of their heart!!
         Generations and generations to come, changes to happen.....Am I gonna miss you my mother tongue?...will you get vanished?....Hoping for the good times...!!

         

Modi vs Gandhi or Chandy vs VS.....

            How many of us are educated about 'Catmando'? I recently came across this in a prominent internet search engine. I had to probe into this in detail due to my unfamiliarity. Later I assimilated that 'Catmando' was biologically a cat who served as a joint leader of a Britain's political party along with it's owner.
             I was astonished and felt bizarre when learnt about this. Weird!!..A cat as a political leader??....A completely opposite situation to that in India where there are innumerable 'aggressive' human beings reigning with pride and honor as politicians.
             I am never against politics. But as always not much appreciative about it. According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, 'politics' means:

• Activities that relate to influencing the action and policies of the government or getting and keeping power in a government.
• The work or job of people(such as electoral officials) who are part of the government.
• The opinions that someone has about what should be done by government or a person's political thoughts and opinions.

             But, is the activities or work of the government a synonym for aggression?...which in turn result in the belligerent actions of the people? Now and then I feel politics is a game of disputes. It might be 'by the people, for the people or of the people'!

            The recent havoc which occurred in the Kerala Legislative Assembly is an example. It was similar to a well shot movie clip! In contradiction to this act, how much I wish if there was a single 'Catmando' in Indian politics too. An animal which will remain silent in the middle of allegations or due to it's bewilderment amidst human beings!

             Whether it is a happening political debate in the television or cover stories published in leading newspapers all according to me finally ends in some sort of commotion. These finally result in hartals, strikes or bandhs. Myself hailing from the state of hartals, Kerala, like the majority is always against this public nuisance.....

            To read the newspaper is habitual to me; instilled in me by my Dad. But due to the never ending disputes, arguments and my mere interest in politics, I always ignored the political scenario. There might be many, at least teenagers with this same opinion.....

             Today, the scene is different. Getting married to a district which is called as the Northern political Capital of Kerala; to a family who has hard core bond with politics......And when your husband is equally and very much interested in this democratic game, you start liking it!!

             At the end, I have a single question, "Will silence be the agenda in the future game of politics?...no more chaos and disputes?....and hence no more public nuisances in the form of hartals?"

PS: Wish there won't be any other Shaheen Dhada cases in India for expressing their views in this democratic Country!

Two Minute Khana....!

           I think now as the best time to write about this, when the news regarding the high content of chemicals present in the most popular instant noodle brand is prevailing here and there.
            Nestle - Maggi....Seriously I don't have any personal grudge towards you. But, never liked it; preferred to stay away from it. Thanks to my typical nose...that odor of those masalas, it was always like a pungent smell to me.
            I have to thank my Amma also, who always made it a point that both her kids stayed away from it. I still remember, during my school days when some of my friends bring this yellow colored 'edible substance' to class. All, including me used to wait for the lunch break to have some portion of this. Later, back home plead my parents to buy this. I even used the tactics that it takes only  two minutes to cook...very easy!
           When  you are unaccustomed to some things it is natural that you nurture a dislike towards it. That happened in my case too. Years on, I had and still have a sense of puking when I get the smell of cooked 'Maggi'. When I discussed this with my friends, they always considered me as a specimen. I felt this to some extend true during my Post Graduation Hostel days.
            Thanks to the closed Sunday evening mess in hostel, so that I witnessed the large queue near the gas stove to cook the very delicious, substantial, mouthwatering 'Maggi' noodles! I felt sorry for them. Is this the only dish they can cook? I cannot just blame the 'Maggi', there were various other popular instant noodle brands too. I always preferred to have dinner from a nearby restaurant and wished the rest did the same.
             I was glad that my room was near to the gas stove region; so that, the next day, I could take a count of the large amount of discarded 'Maggi' packets in the dustbin beside it.  It was usually filled till the peak!
             Today I am so happy and proud that I was always against this. But, only this....not all the junk foods, I mean. Because even I am a human being, who licks those drooling mayonnaise and sauces falling from burgers and pizzas. Oh my goodness!..What will happen when one day somebody takes action to ban these too?.........
               Hoping for the best!