Dilli Haat – Colorful & Vibrant Bazaar

I have a strong penchant for handcrafted goods made by artisans – especially those traditional & ethnic embroidery works, crochet, chikankari, phulkari work. Also, whenever I travel, I make it a point to buy artefacts and handicrafts that’s locally produced. No wonder I jumped at the opportunity to visit Dilli Haat – a market place in Delhi; for craftsmen who come and sell their handicrafts from all the corners of India. Though it’s slightly expensive they say, but I didn’t care…I was so fascinated that ended up buying some stoles with excellent phulkari work all over – a hallmark of Punjab.

Ethnic sarees, stoles, shawls at the stalls

It’s winter and thank god it was sunny and warm

My favorite kashmiri shawls, dresses

Some more hand-made crafts

It was nice to see people, chatting and enjoying the warmth of the sun while gazing at the craft work

Beautiful, colorful and exquisite puppets made of cloth

Missed a puppet show though

Hand crafted mats etc.

A man at work – weaving the expensive pashmina - a fine cashmere wool. (He was kind enough to give me a bit of the expensive raw wool on my request)

Lovely & bright crafts to adorn your walls

Don’t you adore them too??

My comfort food in winter!

Well, that’s how I am trying to comfort myself in this cold, dark and sometimes gloomy days in Delhi. Yes, it even rained. The weather has been really awful. However, there’s a market place nearby and I managed to locate a wonderful food joint that serves hot chocolate, bread, etc. I loved it at the first sip – nice, creamy and chocolaty!!! Have tried their toasts and creme`of mushroom too, they tasted equally yumm!!

Oh!! And the place is Chocola, I have already been there twice What’s your comfort food this winter?

Start your day with a smile :)

Typically escalator rides are very boring. Most of the time we encounter people with a grumpy look who stare or talk on the phone with absurd conversation making no sense. We are left with no choice but to listen or look around. This morning on my way to work I met a perfect stranger in the escalator. He smiled and I smiled back (out of courtesy). His floor arrived and the gates opened. I wished him “Have a nice day”. To that he responded politely “You too”.

Now this is a very trivial thing, could be termed as social manners, etiquette or whatever. My point here is…simple things can actually make a huge difference to our outlook. Our attitude towards life. Could be a feel-good-factor and possibly our rest of the day is well spent?

I guess it’s all about making it good for you and people around you and life becomes much more easier!!

Goood Morning – A new day, a new year!

This year has started on a whole lot of positivity, unlike last year. Don’t even wish to remember some “incidents” and difficult times caused by unscrupulous people. But, lessons learnt well

Anyway, met a childhood friend after 6 looooong years…we visited Delhi Haat…did some shopping…had some yummy steamy momoz …Met another friend…received a bunch of my favorite flowers(tube-roses) and a music CD that has a collection of my favorite old songs. A very thoughtful present I must say. Had delectable Chinese food for dinner…and a sinful cheese cake to celebrate the new year eve. Will post some pics very soon

So it was meeting friends, presents, shopping, food-ing and fun! Absolute bliss! Delhi is bringing so much happiness to me…could not have asked for more. Love this place.

Touchwood!

Happy New Year to alll you lovely people….. once again

So what?

So what?
If you don’t love me anymore.
I have all the love treasured,
when you loved me once; to the core…!

Those moments of togetherness,
of sweet love and care,
endless promises and unbound happiness.

So what?
If you don’t love me anymore…
I have those moments stored,
somewhere in the little corner,
of my heart & soul.

No matter how much you try,
you too cannot erase them;
it’s love my dear…
happens once…not twice!

Frenzied days but FUN :)

Bitter cold and wintry morning. Foggy and bleak. The trees stood there in absolute silence. Few men covered in thick blankets gathered some dried twigs and lit a small bonfire to comfort themselves.  It was 9:00 AM and the mighty sun was idly hiding somewhere.

That’s Delhi in the month of December! While I am saving myself by wearing sweaters, jackets, caps and shawls…regular shots of piping hot chai from a nearby “Tauji ka dhaba” is keeping me slightly warm(In northern India, some natives address elderly people as Tau). Tauji, a very old, humble and modest fauji serves all fresh and nothing stale in his tin roofed, spacious and bright dhaba. The minute I enter, he instructs his boy to get a FRESH ginger tea with less sugar. Cupping the glass with both the hands to get some warmth I sip it slowly; enjoying the ginger flavor. It relieves my throat. I look around and see the indolence on everyone’s face, bit by a chilly-breezy weather.

It’s been just a couple of days and am freezing to death but trust me enjoying every bit of “Dilli ki sardi” Am here on work for sometime. First day was simply crazy, had forgotten to collect my baggage from the airport (Must be thinking that’s very usual of me) Thankfully after some running around and requests got it back. Met some friends, watched a movie, had dinner at a friend’s place and slowly settling down here. Besides work, I plan to tour purani dilli (Old Delhi) one of the days… just to feel the old-time charm! I simply love it…the forts, tombs, gallis and dhabas…and bazaars….

“Another journey,
another place,
cold nights and foggy days,
I close my eyes,
& silently pray,
for a safe, sound and happy stay!!”

(Had scribbled those lines on my way to Delhi)

After a long hiatus…but back with a smile!

Something inside kindled,
prompted me to come back,
to a world of mysterious beauty,
and eclectic joy,
of connecting and bonding,
sharing and laughing,
in endless ways…
and greatest care!

I was going through a transition phase – both on a personal and professional front. Hence this unannounced break. There were “some” people who did not spare even this space to pull me down, affect me and hurt me, but I did not choose to stoop down to their levels. I chose silence instead. Cared less and remained calm and quiet. Rediscovered myself in the process and found my own happiness and zeal to live my life.

Professionally and personally I am very happy now. Thanks to all those who have been pillars of strength throughout.

Wishing you all a great festive season ahead!

Much Love!!!

P.S. (Thank you for your unconditional love, to all those emails and requests to come back. I will reply to each mail personally very soon)

Tough times never last, tough people do!

When hard times knock the door,
Hold on to a little strength,
To fight it…& shove it off the door.
When life’s agony envelops you,
muster a little courage.
For, God is around,
He will surely take you through!

Hand pinched…

 Man from the village

  Trinket Box

  Bird bath

  Oil Lamp

    Two little innocent friends

Award…Tags…Fun

Here I am, pleased to receive this Sunshine award/badge and completing this tag of few of my favourite things. Tags are always fun, aren’t they?

Food: Anything well cooked and wrapped with love

Color: Blue, Black, White and a lot of pastel shades

Sports:  Football and badminton

Dessert:  Caramel Custard, Chocolate Brownie, seviyan…

Artist/Singer/Band:  I have always loved R.D. Burman music…Kishore Kumar Songs…

Pair of shoes:  Flats…ethnic mostly

Accessory:  I love black metal jewellery and anklets…

Hobbies:  Reading, blogging, pottery, cooking, travelling, and …I don’t remember as of now

Beauty product:  Not much…moisturizer, kajal, and lip balm

Snacks:  Anything chatpata…. Yummm

Movies:  Hmmm… I love watching classics…but anything that’s a timpass..I can watch it

Thank you Faisal for the award and the tag. It was fun!! Thanks to Ajay too for tagging me, though I am yet to take it up, And, I would like to pass this Sunshine badge and tag to all my beautiful readers who visit my page, read and leave their lovely comments. Keep shining

Alllll iz wellll

This weekend was fun. Inclusive of good times, good food, good movies(Yes 2 actually), good shopping and a good haircut

Let me know how was yours? Have a super week ahead

 

Wordless Wednesday…

but laughter unlimited

I have heard of SAVE Earth…but SAVE Puri????

By the way, my mouth is watering & am going to have a round of pani puri NOW…I think you guys should go for it too!! What say?

My fading memory…

Last week it was my mobile, which I left at the coffee shop. After an hour I realized I had forgotten something. This time I thought I had lost it for sure after forgetting it for the nth time. Needless to say, I rushed back but thankfully one of the staff members had kept it aside.

Then, a couple of days later, I had left my new pair of specs at the lawn. Yes, I wouldn’t have cared if it was not worth 8,000/-, had picked the design after careful selection. I cried o’er it. Really. Someone was kind enough to hand it over to me on my next visit.

And just yesterday, I left a folder somewhere. It had a few documents. I don’t remember if it was at the office I visited, or the auto or…errr…don’t even remember now where…? Sigh!!! Why is it not so easy to forget stuff…we want to? Why why why?

This and that…

My day started all busy-busy … just because I woke up late. Made quick breakfast (slowly working on my food habits), finished off a few household chores, rushed for my classes… and obviously failed to reach on time!!! I hate to be late.

Nevertheless, had a very rewarding day at the workshop. We were asked to give finishing touches to the hand pinched objects and taught how to varnish them for that extra sheen. I was happy to see the end result. Now it would go into the Kiln for firing. Am so excited and can’t wait any longer to see the finished product. Have started practicing on the wheel too and it’s turning out to be unbelievably amazing. Slowly, with moist hands giving some form to the clay. Wow!! I want to make a lot of artifacts, bowls…plates and pots out of it. A few give away for my friends too. Yes, yes, all of you…for being there throughout.

After my classes I went for some grocery shopping. I prefer buying everything fresh …for cooking. Bought home some bright green colored spinach leaves and potatoes…for dinner tonight.  Along with the spinach, picked up a few long, slender looking tuberoses from the florist…to adorn the room and for some sweet, intoxicating fragrance.  Ahhhh! My favourite lot.

Weather is good and I am having a cup of hot ginger tea with rusks, while posting this…how was your day today?

The overcast

It’s been raining all day. Dark grey clouds have enveloped the sky and the shower lashed my balcony. Tiny potted plants gleamed with the droplets that suspended slowly from the edges of the green leaves and colorful flowers. I gazed outside for a long…long time, and observed the clouds and the rain and the birds that were hunting for a shelter to avoid getting wet.

Generally, I love when it rains, but today it was different. I could feel the gloom around, and I wanted to see a bright, hopeful…sunny morning. Very soon. I tried to soothe my pre-occupied mind. I tried hard to distract. But, in vain. The thoughts just refused to go…just like those clouds up there.

“When one door of happiness closes, another opens, but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one that has been opened for us.” - Helen Keller

It’s unfair to let go off my share of happiness this way. On that note, let me brush aside the day that just passed and look forward to a new day. Much brighter and positive.

Life

…is so uncertain for a common man. Thanks to unabashed terror attacks. When the damage is done, our country wakes up to “Red Alerts”, ” Attack strongly condemened”, ”Govt empathizes with all the victims” etc …

There is no bigger loss than loss of a life. Period.

Clay and Pots and lots …

I made a promise to myself and here I am…trying to fulfil it. I joined my pottery classes this week, and my first day was remarkable. Kneading, rolling, hand-pinching, scoring, and what not. Ofcourse am yet to learn the art of “Throwing on the wheel”, wedging, centering, pulling, firing, glazing and a lot more. Slowly, am hoping I would be able to master this fine art. I want to.

                            At the school, some artefacts displayed

                           Some more…

My first creation, hand pinched. Unfinished. An ethnic turtle at a very raw stage.

You know, the best part is everyday I am getting inspired. The biggest lesson is that of “detachment”. At beginner’s level, we created an article and then with a heavy heart we had to dismantle it. Why? So that we detach ourselves and focus on the next object to achieve the perfection. Secondly, “Patience”. The entire process is a bit time-consuming and needs tremendous patience. Once, you have given some form to the clay, you need to wait until it hardens and then there’s firing, glazing, etc. It may take over 2 weeks to get the final outcome, depending on factors like texture of the clay and right temperature.

So,  life is a great lesson. Keep learning!

…

I ought to let it go…

Song on my mind today

 

One of my favourite songs. A soul-stirring one.

Talk it out

You need someone to talk to…who can listen to you with keenness; “all” that you have to say, understand you… and someone with whom you don’t have to pretend. I share a great comfort level with this friend of mine and had a lovely relaxed time.

Ambience was perfect, on a porch – a mini-garden in itself. A brief shower, but we didn’t care…we talked and giggled like school girls while swaying gently on the swing and sipping hot tea.

A new chapter in my life!

The train screeched to a halt, early in the morning. I rushed and sprang up; while I ran my fingers through the dishevelled hair and tied it into a knot. I was half-asleep when I pulled my baggage out, and a gentleman helped me open the door, seeing both my hands were full. I politely thanked him and got off the compartment. Breathed in the air, that was fresh and pure…and misty. Morning air always cheers me up, no matter what. Heard the sparrows twitter almost close to my ears, I couldn’t help…but smile. The sky was clear and blue, as if…rinsed with heavy rainfall; the previous night. I walked over the platform pleased and burdened with my heavy bags. I could hear the noisy traffic outside…amidst auto walah’s who scratched and grinned and continued to pester asking… Madam, where to go? I plainly ignored, and basked in the glory of arriving at my destination.

There’s something special, yet distinctly uncanny that pulls me back to this city…this time for a little longer period though. A city that has an unpredictable; yet lovely weather. A city that has  managed to retain some of its huge, gigantic trees and greenery. A city, where a few of my closest friends live. A city, that offers tremendous opportunities to hone my skills, and a city with lots of excitement, madness and joy.

Take a guess…which city? In the meanwhile, let me discover what’s  the special thing about this city that has a magnetic effect on me.

Some home made Coffee & Sandwiches???

Whipping and whipping the coffee and sugar…until it’s smooth and frothy!

And then goes the boiled water & milk into it…Looks rich and creamy. Isn’t?

Some home-made quick sandwiches to go with the coffee and yes the ketchup too…

And… this is how an evening was enjoyed with hot Coffee and sandwiches!!

Want to have some???? Come over

The challenge…

…to manage my time between,

• Multiple work assignments / Deliverables
• My volunteering activities
• House-hold chores
• Cooking
• Reading
• Writing / Blogging
• Spending whatever time left with family / friends

And, then there are additional courses that I would be taking up soon on Pottery/Clay Modelling and Creative Writing. Its a mad affair. 24 hrs a day suddenly seems to be too less? I wish if it could just stretch a bit more…

How well do you balance or manage your time? Let me know pls…pls…pls

It blossomed from my balcony…

The vibrant colored Hibiscus

Most awaited time…

Cozy winter days are long gone,
Springtime has secretly passed too.
Summer time lingered around,
with scorching sun & intense heat.
It’s time now for some magical ecstasy,
For, slowly the sky is turning grey,
& clouds beginning to dance,
to the breezy tunes…
of thunderstorm & torrential rain!

Travel Tale – Panoramic Himachal Pradesh

Since childhood, I yearned to visit those places that were beautifully sketched in story books or even composed in the form of poetry. Ones that spoke about nature’s absolute raw beauty…about misty mornings, hillside views…lush greenery, rivers carrying pristine water etc etc… I would envisage them & all of that formed a beautiful reverie on my mind. Little did I know, my dream would come true & I would get to see that part of a beautiful, heaven like world.

Yes, I am absolutely smitten by the mystic Himachal beauty! I captured the beauty not only through the digital device but deeply through my eyes too for lifelong reminiscence!

Our journey began from Amritsar, a beautiful & sacred place…with such warm people around. We had very few hours to spend there & we did not want to miss visiting the Jalianwala Bagh & the Golden Temple. The sight of the well at the Bagh did sting my heart strongly and I could regain my composure only after visiting the sanctified Golden Temple.

Jalianwala Bagh – The Martyr’s Well, where inadvertently many laid their lives for us to see the light of an Independent Country.

I bowed & prayed quietly. Sought blessings & left the place after having the “Prashad”. .  That moment was like an eternity to me, you have to be there to believe me!

Leaving Amritsar without tasting the delicious Paranthas? No way…!! I never miss out on food, especially the local cuisine, otherwise what’s the fun?

On our way to Dalhousie, our first destination. Crossed the beautiful golden & green spread across Punjab.

Evening at Dalhousie. Look at the exotic colors God used… to paint the sky that evening.

Subhash Chownk at Dalhousie. Our real hero stands tall out there… making us feel proud!!!

Right opposite the Subhash Chownk is a beautiful Church located uphill. There were these sculpted images that depicted the poignant tales of Jesus Christ on the sideways.

My favourite private little spot at Dalhousie. I remember after my morning walks & yoga, I would sit here quietly for long hours and introspect.

And then..would stop by for some hot-tea at a small tea-joint overlooking the scenic beauty of Dalhousie.

A beautiful piece of art that goes unnoticed on the way! The sculpted figure too seems to be awed by nature’s beauty…!(Look at the way hands are placed, relaxed & laid back)

This was so pictursque & breath-taking.  A meadow at Khajjiar, some 23 Kms from Dalhousie is surrounded by sprawling Deodhar trees. Absolute landscape for painting!

Chamba region was very hot. A quick visit to the market…

Chamba is located at the right bank of Ravi River. The icy cold water was simply irresitible and we dipped our legs into it & played a lot splashing water here ‘n there.

Sunset at Dalhousi. A quiet, serene affair as the day slowly comes to an end.

Next day we were all set to hit the roads…towards our next destination crossing the beautiful hilly terrains of Kangra Valley. The drive can be really dangerous duirng monsoon time due to landslides.

Our view from hotel room at Naddi, around 2 kms from Mcleodganj…upper Dharmashala. The sight of beautiful snow capped Dauladhar Ranges. Breath-taking isn’t?

Ancient Bhagsunag Temple. KulDevta is being worshipped there since 1861. The water flowing through those channels in the pic are supposed to be fresh from the hills and meant for drinking purpose. I managed to drink some and it was unbelievably cold and fresh!!

Lovely colorful trinkets being sold at tiny stores at Mcleodganj.

The Buddhist Monastery. The monks above were in the middle of the training.

Beautiful sunset at Naddi. The place boasts of this sunset point. There are a few shops there that sell out fresh steamed veg momos!! Yummm I tell you

`En route to Manali. Both the sides of the road were carpeted with tea-shrubs offering a captivating landscape.

A quick visit to another ancient Baijnath temple on the way. It seems to be existing since 1204 AD. Loved the architecture.

The Pong Dam built at Beas river.

Beautiful Beas river that was along the roadside throughout our jouney from Mandi to Manali.

Towards the Rohtang Pass…

The freezing snow point. I was shivering but the experience is completely inexplicable…!!! Tried Skiing too

There were small tea-stalls at the point providing some breather to the cold-struck people like me. Funny part was my hands were shivering and the tumbler rolled down. Ofcourse, I did get up to fetch another one…as I did not want to miss the moment of having chai there

That’ s a mountain edge facing Solang Valley at a height of 10,000 ft.

The only adventure we tried out was the awesome “Ropeway” With the help of that we reached the ridge of the mountain facing the valley. Ordered some Garlic toasts for quick bite & chaah :) By now you must have gauged am such a tea fanatic!!!

Club House Manali. Roses there were grown in abundance & the fragrance too was very sweet. Perhaps the right weather for their growth.

Some chaat/samosas to relieve my tingling senses. Spicy, hot and tangy

Hidimba Temple at Manali. Built at 1553 dedicated to Bhima’s wife

The Mall Road at Manali for shopping extravaganza

The final goodbye to the beautiful valley, apple orchards and vibrant Beas river…(The view from our hotel in Naggar, close to Manali)

The trip would certainly be remembered for the stunning views it offered in the form of mountains, beautiful valleys, raging rivers and the beautiful gravel layered banks…but I was slightly disappointed too. The tourists there, our very own Indian folks had littered around badly. Though plastic-use has been banned in the region, people did not refrain from throwing wrappers, plastic bottles, food etc around. It was hurting to the core to see educated bunch of people doing the same. Left me wondering if their conscience did not stop them from polluting the place that we all wish to visit and enjoy with our loved ones for its very own natural beauty?

A little self-talk!

There are times when I feel slightly disheartened & lost. And, I tell myself… ”It’s okay, it’s not going to last forever. The overcast would gradually fade away. It’s okay to feel that way, afterall we’re human. We feel happy some days and some days we don’t. There are days that are full of excitement and then there are days that are dull & dark. So what? It really doesn’t matter if you feel low, what matters is you quickly pull yourself out of it and bounce back to be a part of this game. The game called “Life”!

…and this bit of self-talk helps!! It helps me ride o’er the tide!

Wordless Wednesday

Posting the Divine Golden Temple’s pic & sharing the news that am back after a lovely trip

Importance of Manuals

Am sure manuals are not packaged to get trashed. They are meant to be read carefully before we operate the equipment. Yes, often we don’t have the patience (I have zero level at that) to go through the fat booklets, thinking, there’s nothing exciting anyway. (As if they are meant to have some humor/gossip etc) In my case, once I possess the gadget … I care a damn about reading the instructions/safety measures etc and start using out of sheer confidence that I know it all, until one fine day when it starts giving problems. And, then the store guy is accused of giving us a faulty product.

How did I get enlightened? Well, thanks to my camera that died. Despite charging, checking, trying all possible ways… it failed to show signs of being alive. And, when I rushed to the nearest service center like a typical irated customer, the agent politely replied after testing “Ma’m, there’s nothing wrong, all you need to do is charge it well for minimum 12 hrs at a stretch after the battery exhausts completely. And for the durability he added, it’s good to keep the battery away when not in use.”

I thanked him and promised myself, would go back home and search for the manuals to read them carefully.

All that…for a splendid vacation!

Endless research towards the destination,
Countless planning & listing of things to pack,
A heart full of bizarre mix of excitement & joy!
A journey all set; to make it memorable & worthwhile!

I keep wondering…

Where does my “Ma” derive so much energy from? Always on her toes, always keen on doing something or the other, yet she never gets tired. Be it sewing; or running after her grand-daughter; or even cooking up something special for us. (Touch Wood)

I guess God made Mothers that way; so that we constantly draw inspiration from. She says “I don’t like to sit idle”. I retort, “you need to rest too” & she adds further “But, I enjoy doing them”. Well, I cease arguing & remain tight-lipped; thinking…all I wish is her happiness.

Today is my “Ma’s” birthday. I wanted to gift her a “Special Day” & planned it slightly different. I pampered her today at home. Gave her a lovely  head & foot massage. Made a special face-pack for her. Yes, pretty much a Home-Spa

Now, am geared up to bake a delicious cake, shall make some rice pudding, and prepare a scrumptious dinner that would include all her favorite food.

Ma – A very Happy Birthday to you!

Some “Me” Time

An Evening Walk…can be so rejuvenating.  It isn’t too hot as yet. The evenings are slightly breezy & pleasant. I decided to walk up to a nearby park today. Tiny beads of sweat formed o’er my face & I was exhausted towards the end, but when I sat down on a round platform built under a tree at the park, all my fatigue was lost.

I relaxed, looking at those gigantic trees & listened to the chirping birds that perched on low-lying twigs. The tranquility of a beautiful sunset, with evening hues spread across the sky captivated my mind. I smiled. Oh! How I wished the moment just paused for a while!

On my way back, I stopped by…for a sweet coconut water treat!

From Upanishads,

“As one acts and conducts himself/herself, so does he/she become. The doer of good becomes good. The doer of evil becomes evil. One becomes virtuous by virtuous action, bad by bad action.”

En route to re-discovery!

New beginning & new hopes,
New desires & miles to go…

The Party

He staggered & his eyes were fiery. He smiled wryly. The guests had started pouring. He would go up to the women & try to hug them; and the women would cringe with severe discomfort. Some clearly evaded, having estimated his state from a distance. It was evident; he was inebriated at a party thrown by his colleague. A few men took him out but it did not help much. He returned after some time & the people around grew conscious of any ruckus.

In one corner of the adorned room, a woman stood in utter dismay.  Clad in a beautiful red saree, she watched over this man with grave concern. Her eyes were moist; though she tried hard to masquerade her pain. But, the anger and helplessness could not be masked. There were murmurs all about this man who was drunk. She could sometimes overhear them. Clung to her Saree was a young boy, who smiled & greeted others…

The hosts started fretting as the situation was getting awkward. The woman looked embarrassed & quite apologetic. She slowly excused herself & left the place, holding her husband’s hand over her shoulder. Little boy, their son… still clung to her saree, followed them in disappointment, probably wondering why?

Drinking is purely a personal preference, but I strongly condemn the habit, if it’s overdone & the person has no control over himself, especially at a social gathering with the spouse & child around. Besides causing discomfort to others, the partner becomes the center of attention for all the wrong reasons.

“You may have no control once you are drunk, but the choice of place and surrounding can always be taken into consideration before indulging.”

What’s brewing?

It’s an exhilarating moment. Yes, besides the internet being up & running well, there are quite a few things brewing up. An itinerary for a laid-back vacation is in progress. It isn’t the Beach or Backwaters. No desert land either (the heat would get me baked in summer). This time, it’s going to be amidst those lush vales & valleys, free-flowing unadulterated rivers, lakes & meadows & a pleasant weather all in all…far from the heat, pollution & invariably a boisterous city life…Much desired, significant break from a strenuous lifestyle.

Post vacation, an enrolment in some creative course: may be clay modelling, pottery or some creative writing? What say? It would be loads of fun. Isn’t?

Distress

of the Internet Connection being out of order & more than that, the inability to connect with my Virtual Friends

Those alluring Clouds o’er Machu Picchu, Peru

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            (Pic Source: National Geographic – Photo of the day, describes as “Perched high in the Peruvian Andes, the royal retreat of Machu Picchu testifies to the Inca’s masterful building skills with its precision-cut stones and perfectly placed cascades of terraces.”)

Incredibly beautiful! (Have added this to my list already Yes, the list of those sought after destinations I shall travel hopefully; in this lifetime )

Reader’s Digest

Besides reading Fictions and sometimes few promising Non-fictions, I enjoy reading Journals too.  Business, Lifestyle, Travel Journals make up for an interesting read, but one of my favourites has been Reader’s Digest. I remember as a child everyone would recommend this, to pick up the reading habit, to improvise the language skills, to gain knowledge, etc. RD, I believe has been a complete package that has catered to all age-groups & for all kinds of readers too. Real time inspiring stories, quotes, general articles, jokes, always used to be interesting.

Journals have to deal with this constant challenge of adequately keeping their readers engrossed with something new & exciting. Recently, I was going through the latest edition of RD, and I was quite impressed to see the new change. Due to changed lifestyle of current generation I see that the book offers additional columns on, advisory, professional help, Lifestyle, Food, Good Health, Office Humour etc.  

Spring Time

As the Spring, gently sets in,

I feel the magic in the air.

Of sweet floral fragrance,

& succulent fruity flavours.

 

 

Am shocked & quite concerned,

…reading this bit of article on Times of India  dated, 22 March 2011. It reports, 42 girl children dumped at the doors of the state-run Shishu-Vihar in the last 80 days. Further, there’s a significant rise on the number of disowned/abandoned girl child from 208 in 2008 to 260 last year. In this day & age? If this is prevalent in a city like Hyderabad, I am afraid what’s happening in the remote areas or even behind the scenes.

An evening,

… spent reading a book (Almost Single, by Advaita Kala) on my balcony while munching buttered popcorn! Sometimes the birds & sometimes the pleasant breeze would distract me but otherwise I go on…dreaming & flipping the pages interestingly. (On the book, so far it’s humorous, shall try & review on completion)

I know,

for all that happens,
for all that one goes through,
God has a reason,
& I believe firmly,
it happens for the best!

This year so far…

…one of the best things, that happened to me was meeting a Blog friend for the first time. Yes, I met Swaram. The most popular Blogger around; on a very noble occassion for a Cause that we all know she is so closely associated with.

And, believe me she is as beautiful, lively, humble & kind as she exudes it through her writings.

Loved the experience of meeting her, besides the blessings that I sought from Swami Jee! Looking forward to meet my other Blog Friends too

Suddenly,

I am in love with life. Enjoying every moment of it & getting soaked in it’s splendour!!!!

And to all the beautiful people out there,

……have a splendid weekend

Womanhood – An embodiment of courage & Strength

While, there are plenty of woman who inspire me with their strength and vigour to strive for excellence in life. There is this woman who has been a constant source of inspiration to me and my life. A pillar of strength & an emblem of divinity.

She was married at a very early age. Without any qualms she embraced her future life. Came to a distant place, far off from her parents to begin a new life with her husband.  There were ups and downs but she never raised any voice of concern. Never, a line of frown on her beautiful face. She always looked so content and at peace. Over a period of time, she had three sons. But, she longed for a girl child. Probably God listened to her prayers and she was blessed with a girl. She adored her, dressed her beautifully, and raised all her four children with equal love& care. She would wake up early to finish all the chores, made breakfast, packed lunch and sent her husband off to office & children to school. There wasn’t much house-help earlier so independently she would do it all. There was never a break from her usual life as such; except some visits to a nearby market, or a quick visit to neighbourhood, or they visiting her & a few festive occasions.

She shouldered her domestic responsibilities & there was never a word of complain ever! Silence was her strength perhaps. Endurance was something she had cultivated over time. One fine day her husband met with an accident early morning while he was heading towards his work place. A serious brain injury was detected, besides some minor injuries. Her children were all grown up and were in different cities pursuing their studies. She was alone, with her youngest little daughter. She did not want her children’s education to hamper in between, hence chose not to share the news with them. She mustered up all the courage & managed the hospital & home affair with such fineness.  Her husband slowly recovered.

Unfortunately, the brain injury did not heal completely and her husband had a paralysis attack the following year. God perhaps wanted to test her patience level further. He was bed ridden for a very long time. She religiously took care of all his needs. Cooked his meal as directed by the doctor, gave medicines on time, and took him to doctors & therapists for regular check-ups & special physio-therapies. This was all done, besides the routine house-hold chores. She never expressed her fatigue; never an iota of anger or frustration reflected on her calming face, despite the day long activities; nursing her own husband and attending the needs of her children.  

His health started deteriorating further year after year. Sometimes, the health graph would improve, while sometimes it would drastically fall. She cried sometimes in some corner but never surfaced it in front of her children. For all those painful years, she served him without any hint of discomfort. She never expressed any pain. And, then one day he went into coma & gradually passed away.  She accepted that as her fate and moved on. Her children did all that they could, was there through her thick and thin. It was their loss too; however they were all together to fight the tough time that the family went through. But the pain that this woman has gone throughout her life, her silent struggle, her patience; her ability to move on has always been an embodiment of courage & strength to me.

And, still she continues to wear a beautiful smile on her face.

(A true tale dedicated to Feminspiration)

Moments we create!

Well, I realise good moments are actually created. Just expecting things to turn fine all by itself is sort of inane. We must do things that bring us joy, do things that give us pleasure. We must create those moments, make them special. These days, I cook more often. I try new things, spend time watching classics on Television, listen to Mukesh/Md. Rafi / RD Burman songs, water my plants, I meet close friends, spend more time with family, read lots of books, journals,  & I write as much as I can.

O’er this weekend, I visited a very close friends’ place. It’s been a long pending one. This time, I had decided not to drop the plan, come what may. And, what an amazing time I had with him, his wife & adorable, beautiful, little daughter who is going to turn a year old in a few days.  Those were a few good moments. We went for an evening walk together along the road. There was so much greenery. We crossed a very old cemetery too. We talked, cracked jokes, laughed, remembered some good ol’ times, pulled each other’s legs, and walked back home. Later, we decided to go out for dinner, but on our way we changed our plan. We wanted to cook at home together.  We stopped by for grocery shopping and picked up all that we needed to cook up a sumptuous dinner. We returned home.

And in no time, while we were chatting, chopping, stirring & cooking, our meal was ready. Spicy Pulao, Chicken Drumsticks cooked in a tomato rich gravy on slow fire , Stir fried potatoes & frozen peas. All prepared and ready to be served with chilled coke. Yes. We gave a damn to calories and hogged instead. We did not regret going out. Had a relaxed hearty meal, & then I was dropped back home safely.

All in all, had a blast! Yes, we create moments like these and make life worthwhile. I shall cherish these special moments life long.

What’s on my mind?

…This beautiful song and it’s lyrics. It’s incredibly inspiring and soulful.

Those eyes!

Those eyes that brimmed with tears,
they glisten with happiness now.

Those hopeful eyes, they dream,
& they beam with joy!

Towards a healthy journey

Today morning was not the regular sunny-bright ones. It was cloudy, little dark and cold.  It brought some rainfall too, a brief one though. For me, it was a lovely one. I love rainfall, any season, any time.  And, I am glad with the fresh air flowing in the morning, a light drizzle made a perfect weather for me to restart my Yoga days. Yes, I feel so rejuvenated. So fresh after those long Suryanamaskars (without the mighty Sun ) and a few Asanas here and there.

Want to make this weekend a little fitness bound so would include mostly fresh fruits, juices, steamed vegetables and healthy cereals in my diet. I think it’s a great idea to flush the toxins out of mind, body & life. What say?

How are you planning your weekend? Here’s wishing you all a super healthy weekend!

Look ahead…

The best part of reading a book to me; has been picking up specific instances/sentences/phrases that I find truly inspiring. I record them, and try to take them forward in the journey of my life. You know; if not entirely… it helps. I mean, at least I try to make things slightly easier in life, get inspired by several such little means. 

Well some nostalgia adds sweetness, while some don’t. The “Don’t” part should unquestionably be forgotten; as the character in the fiction work “The Shadow Lines” By Amitav Ghosh says “Nostalgia is a weakness, a waste of time. And it’s everyone’s duty to forget the past and look ahead and get on with building the future…”

Yes, I want to bury the past and work on building a beautiful future. A dream like world. My little world of fun, happiness & laughter.

Almighty God’s mighty thought?

God sitting up there must have thought; I could withstand anything that would come my way.  Else, how would I evolve stronger day by day? A little bit of tide & a little tranquillity…perhaps makes each one’s life healthy, wealthy & wise. Isn’t?

P.S. – My sincere apologies to all my blog friends…for not having replied to the comments in my previous posts. But let me tell you, I read them carefully & they mean a lot to me. I shall reply to them, as soon as I can.

Love & Wishes to All

A walk along the coast

The sky appeared clear and the weather was slightly warm, but quite pleasant as the mild air was flowing softly, swaying the long, green leaves of palm trees that stood tall in a row. I walked along leisurely feeling the breeze. It was gradually turning humid, & there was a strange saline taste in the air as I got closer. Closer to the beach. I walked carefully, removing my footwear till I reached the shoreline. There was water all around. The confluence of sky & the huge deep sea, the waves hitting the coast, the smooth sand. All of that was so inviting. I was mesmerized. As if the whole burden of grief had vanished somewhere. Somewhere, deep inside the magnanimous sea. At once, I surrendered myself to that very moment. 

The shores would touch my feet surreptitiously and then retrieve; as I walked along the coast for a long, long time. It would dampen my feet but not my energy. Trail of footprints formed behind me that got washed away, as I looked back once in a while. I wished, if life’s misery could be washed away too, just like those footprints on the beach. My hair got dishevelled, my clothes turned dirty & wet with all the sand & water but I did not care. I just did not wish to care. I let it be… 

I was exhausted a bit after the walk. I sank into the sand at a distance off the shore & was amazed to see the brightness around. Thousands of people thronged the beach & I could witness all sorts of expressions on their faces. I observed them keenly while sipping my sweet coconut water. I made a castle there. A tiny castle of sand & the coconut shell. I would dismantle it and rebuild again. And, never realised how time flew by… 

Not necessarily just people, nature can be our best friends too. It adds a new perspective to our otherwise mundane life.

The only truth!

I know, I cannot change my fate. I cannot fight destiny. I cannot bring back what’s lost. I can only grieve and move on. I can cry sometimes and move on. An occasional outburst and move on. And, sometimes just move on.

Life is such; we have no choice. We ought to move on.

Unusual Day

Today, the morning did not bring much joy to my little window of hope. I lay still for a long time on my bed, staring incessantly at the ceiling, feeling slightly unwell. I woke up much later, had some hot ginger tea while flipping the newspaper. I was not quite sure, how to spend the rest of my day, as nothing seemed exciting. So, confined mostly to the four walls of my room. A late lunch and some afternoon nap. 

The evening apparently was much easier. It did bring some respite. The weather was just perfect like a spring time. Neither too warm nor too cold; utterly pleasant. I went out onto my balcony for a casual stroll, felt the air and breathed in. I could manage to smile while watching little children playing outside, listened to their giggles & the noise they made…& I sipped my evening cup of tea. The crimson hues covered the sky, alarming all the beings…that a day was slowly coming to an end. 

Living the moment

Today the day was significantly well spent. To relax my conFused mind, I decided to go for a good head massage. While, the masseuse oiled and massaged my head, I took out my book to read the unfinished pages of, “The shadow Lines” by Amitav Ghosh. A good hair wash followed and I was done. I felt at ease, perhaps a feel-good factor. Later, I headed towards a store to do some window shopping, but ended up buying a few shirts for myself. Well, retail therapy works.

The store had an extended Coffee Bar, and I was hungry too. Ordered for a brown bread sandwich and Hot Mocha-Truffle, special flavor of the day(Somehow, I miss having chai bars here). I could spot a seat to settle down comfortably & then  looked around. The store had all sorts of people, couples, children, group of friends, all in a holiday mood, all embarking upon Season’s Sale. There, my cup of coffee and grilled sandwich arrived. And, my concentration shifted to my meal. I slowly took each morsel, enjoyed each bite. Gloria Jean’s Coffee was good too. Chocolaty. A liitle later, I realised my tummy was full and I did not wish to stuff more, left a portion of the sandwich(Though I dislike to discard food). Gulped down the coffee and I left the place.

On my way back home, spent a little time at a Music Store. Good music always has a positive effect. Some soulful connection they have. Bought a few Cds, played them while driving back. I kind of like playing soft music at home at the background. While the music goes on…I take a book, open the windows, enjoy the pleasant breeze and read…or sometimes write…

ConFused State

I want to quit my job. I want to move to another city, another place, hunt for a new job. No, may be a transfer to another city where my existing office has a branch already. This might work, well at least I would save the risk of being jobless or most practically penniless. I want to travel abroad. Probably, do a short term course there. Travel for sometime, see some parts of this world. I need a change. I want a new beginning, a new life, a fresh start all over.

Am I trying to escape or I am simply aspiring? Would that help? I wonder! I am going through a war of thoughts. Several ideas, they are storming my mind. Some seems workable, while some don’t. Is this just a phase that would pass or there’s something that beholds my future. I would let it flow & wait for life to unwrap its own mystery. Life is indeed mysterious, and most certainly unpredictable.

Fearlessly



I shall turn to…No court of law,
No trials, No jurisdiction.
But, God’s justice someday.

Shades of life

When the woes infest my mind,
I seek ways to distract it.
Sometimes I succeed,
While sometimes, I fail.

During those times,
When I fail,
I rely on my inner strength,
As it never betrays,
my undying belief & eternal faith.

Limitations!

There’s a limit to everything. Patience, also would have some. Isn’t? We often hear, patience pays off, being patient helps, patience is the only solution, etc.. etc…But I ask, whats’ the maximum level of such patience?

The return of Khokababu(Best of Tagore)

Recently, I read a translated book of Rabindranath Tagore’s collection of short stories, The Return of Khokababu by Sipra Bhattacharya. I was completely enthralled reading the chapters, so much so that for a minute I did not want to abandon it and wanted to finish it uniterrupted. Needless to say, this book is one of my most prized possessions now. Simple language, touching stories & characters are portrayed with great sensitivity. Tagore has taken us through…possibly all shades & emotions of life in this collection of short stories.

Most of the tales have women as protagonists of 19th century from Bengal, very poignant & subtle by nature. Their plight of endurance, everyday struggle, unexpressed desires, woven delicately in the form of the tales; indeed touched my heart. But, I also loved Tagore’s imaginary world, sometimes as “Highway”, sometimes as “The Ghat” .  An excerpt from The Highway’s Tale reads as ” I allow nothing to remain – neither laughter nor tears. I only let myself remain, alone, for ever.” There are several such thought provoking lines in the book, that I have underlined them (Out of habit).

No, I do not have the audacity to review such a literary genius’ body of work. These were some of my thoughts after finishing the book, that I wanted to record.

This New Year…

Beginning month of yet another year. For me this New Year eve was just like any other usual-routine day. Spent some quite time at home. Had never planned to make it grand anyway as its going to be  just another month & just another year. Am I sounding like a pessimist or more of a realist? I don’t know. Long ago, I remember as kids we would wait for 1st January. We would plan for picnics, buy greeting cards, carefully write messages on them & post it to distant relatives, friends etc. Would spend winter afternoons anxiously waiting for the postman to arrive and deliver cards sent to us in return. Am simply getting nostalgic,  but there used to be tremendous excitement in opening the envelopes, reading those messages & adore the beauty of those cards. (I think, some of them I have neatly preserved). Now a days, thanks to internet & emails, it’s instant. Everything’s almost instant. Life too, I guess! Well, we have to go with the flow, & there’s no other choice.

New Year Eve, was however special in my own small way. You know what  I did? I wrote a simple New Year message to all my friends…all of them… including my close friends & all my blog friends(You know this isn’t? ) & am so overwhelmed to see the response. All of them replied. That was indeed very sweet and I can say this New Year started on a pleasant note. I am so touched! Thank You All

Honestly, have no expectations, have no fixed resolutions to make this year. Simply, wish to take each day as it comes with serenity & even greater simplicity.

Looking back!

A decade has passed,
Well almost,
& in retrospect,
I think,
Of all the good things & bad.

I wish!

I wish I were a bird,
Spreading my wings,
I could fly away,
Across the open sky,
To far off destination!

Indeed!

Going out, change in place, meeting loved ones, works as a breath of fresh air! It has a positive impact & can uplift your moods – even if it’s temporary, it does.

Yet, the struggle continues but with a positive mind.

Good Night!

What to do…

With an indecisive mind? Too many thoughts that linger around?

Under the golden sunlight!

I long to walk along the blossoms,
Faraway, under the golden sunlight.
Misty morning & frosty breeze,
Tall grasses & distant fields.
A long solitary walk,
Under the open blue sky!

Rustling of leaves, chirping of birds,
Enjoying nature’s colorful delight.
I wish to walk faraway,
under the beautiful golden sunlight!

The stream of water flowing in abundance,
Off the hills, crossing several barriers,
I dream of walking along the bank,
faraway, under the golden sunlight!

These wintry mornings are incredibly beautiful when the warmth of sunlight is so sought-after. They inspire me & I truly desire uninterrupted long walks along nature’s bounty.

A lesson learnt

When the going is not strong enough, our thoughts may falter & it may not be very appropriate to act impetuously. One needs to attain some stability & control o’er the situation to take further course of action.

Woman of substance!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name – Usha Mehra (U.M.)
Occupation – Security Guard at Amer Garh, Jaipur
Age – About 45

Excerpt-

U.M. – Kahan se aaye ho aap? (Where have you come from?)
Me – Hyd
U.M. – Kya karte ho? (What do you do?)
Me – IT co. mein naukri karti hun (Work in an IT Company)
U.M. – Computer wala? (Computer related?)
Me –  Errr.. hmmm
U.M. – Meri beti bhi karna chahti thi computers…aur engineer banna chahti thi…(My daughter too wanted to learn computers and become an engineer)
Me – I smiled “to computer sikhana tha na use…abhi kahan hai woh…kya karti hai?” (You should have allowed her to learn computers…where is she now…what does she do?)
U.M. – She paused and answered…”Murder ho gya uska” (She was murdered)

I did not know how to react, I stood there stunned for a while. After gaining my composure, I went up & embraced her gently & asked how did it happen?

UM – “Maar dala usne…rape karne ki koshish bhi ki aur uske sir pe de maara…poora zameen khoon se bhara tha” (He killed her in an attempt to rape…injured her head badly and there was blood all o’er the floor). “Khatam ho gayi meri beti” (My daughter died there). I held her hand tightly teary eyed & almost became numb listening to her.

Me – While caressing her back, I asked irately “sazaa nai dilai use?” (Did you not try and get him punished?)
UM – “Han sab kiya..dilli tak gayi thi…mantri se baat hui thi ..aur ab jail me hai…” (Yes, did all that possibly I could, went upto Delhi, spoke to ministers…he is now in Jail)

I embraced her once again. This time holding me close, she broke down. I noticed, all this while she had put up a brave front disclosing her life’s bitter agony; but in the end her eyes moistened. I felt guilty to have touched a weak nerve but then thought, perhaps this would have made her heart feel less heavier; having shared. She had no one else, no more children & no dependants. Had separated from her husband long ago. She attends her duty and goes back home regularly and leads the very mundane life. She doesn’t talk much to people, because she thinks herself as ill-fated.

That’s Usha Mehra’s life. A non-entity for many but a fighter & an inspiration for me.

I dedicate this post to this Contest.

Jaipur’s Heritage

I had a tough time selecting the photos for this post. There are actually too many, and each has its own significance.

Hawa Mahal (Palace of wind), Old Jaipur – During those times, royal women were allowed to view outside only though these tiny windows – everyday life, festivities etc. I was amazed to see the Palace built with great intricacy; that stood so tall amidst the busy Bazaar.

Having crossed the lanes, By lanes, Bazaars, I almost reach a narrow road that leads to Amber Fort / Amer Garh. At a distance, I was able to view the remnants.

While entering the Fort…

The artwork on the walls, doors, carvings at the fort. A beautiful amalgamation of Hindu-Mughal-Persian artistry.

A distant view of the Mughal Garden from a tiny window called “Jharokha” at the Fort. The Kings & Queens would spent their time relaxing in the Garden.

A sneak through one of the Jharokhas at Amber Fort

A creative flow that was incredibly beautiful.  If you closely look at it, in this carved piece you shall find an elephant’s tail, bee, floret & a butterfly perhaps!!

An extract of the famous “Sheesh Mahal” (The Glass Palace)

A courtyard Diwan-I-Khas inside the fort

Another masterpiece – The Observatory, Jantar Mantar – an astronomical delight! This instrument was primarily used to sight the positioning of Sun and other planets.

One of the 12 Raashis(Sunsigns) …I clicked mine

The Great Sun Dial. I believe, it can give the time to an accuracy of 2 seconds, Placed in the North-South direction. For an instance, I was completely besotted looking at these instruments thinking how it worked during those times.

Gateway to the City Palace, located very close to The Observatory, Jantar Mantar.

The restricted Palace area, where the current Royal Heir lives.

Old Carriages at display in the City Palace

Shoppers paradise – The Jauhari Bazaar & Bapu Bazaar

Colorful souvenirs to gift, all handmade and beautifully crafted.

Bright and vibrant bangles for all times…

Desert land’s pride…

An evening spent in Albert Hall – Museum, that exhibits all the legacies of rulers in ancient times.

I hope you enjoyed the visual treat. These are nothing but a glance through the past…a journey that shall hover around my mind perhaps for a lifetime.

My heart yearns…

To sit by a fireplace comfortably,
in a cold wintry night;
& the following morning,
relax in a hammock;
& feel the warmth of
…a crisp daylight!

Wordless Wednesday

Being adventurous is fun but can be risky…

I was apprehensive but very excited to attend the Sand Dune festival in Tordi, Rajasthan - a small village that’s 75Kms away from Jaipur. I preferred doing a little homework on net & realised a web is; after all a web. If not the right one, information can be really misleading.

I reached Jaipur on scheduled date & time and when I called up the event co-ordinator to check the route, he told me “The event was called off”. Even the local people there, never heard of a place called Tordi. I was shocked, was clueless for a while but I chose not to get unruffled; at least not by face. Called up a friend who helped me find a place to stay in Jaipur. I checked in & the stay was extremely comfortable, a very homely affair and I was mighty impressed. 

Further, I decided to venture Jaipur – The pink city for next 2 days, despite setting off from home on a different journey altogether & I admit I had a super gala time, a wonderful time exploring the place. Visited beautiful Forts, Palaces, Museums, learnt about Jaipur’s history, about the rulers, Kings & Queens, hogged on local delicacies, met people, rode on a horse carriage, and did lots of shopping, shopping & shopping from the by lanes & local bazaars of Jaipur. 

In the end, I feel completely pleased having travelled. I closely observed people there, their culture, food habits etc. & yes tasted this seasons’ sweet wintry breeze during the nights! A perfect time to visit the place. I did manage to capture the memory through my cammy for future reference especially to see and smile, thinking I did muster some courage to travel & explore alone someday.  Now I feel I can dedicate an entire blog to showcase the beautiful time spent in Jaipur & unfold some tales of life, some sweet & some not so sweet experiences that I came across during my journey.

Hillaire Belloc quoted rightly, We wander for distraction, but we travel for fulfilment!!

An ode to full moon!

The moonlight slumbers upon the trees,
weary & indolently all night long.

It softly peeks into my window,
as the sweet smell of jasmine floats.

The twigs & boughs all dance in glee,
While the silvery veil envelopes the night.

Series of events…

that has kept me occupied since last week! Plays, get-togethers, Children’s day competition at our NGO, Cooking…etc!

Alyque Padamsee & Sabira Merchant after their brilliant performance in “The Game“. The act was absolutely flawless.

Naseeruddin Shah, Ratna Pathak, Benjamin Gilani, Akash Khurana & others in “Antigone” – A Greek tragic play. It was my life’s best experience to watch such legendary actors perform live on stage. Naseer was marvellous, so natural.

Children’s Day at Safa(www.safaindia.org). All hidden talents were discovered during this drawing competetion. (Look at their winning smile …They all were fabulous and so creative!

Made some kachoris stuffed with green peas, Alu dum, Daal fry and kheer with nuts and jaggery for dinner.

And, further…am off to Jaipur for a Dance & Music festival o’er this weekend!!

Life – Goes on…

Life is good, may not be ideal but yes; I am genuinely putting in a lot of efforts to make it better, much happier and most importantly content. I have incredibly struggled to reach this stage. A tide in my life has relatively calmed down.  I had understated my life during difficult times. It’s so bright and colourful. Just that, slowly we need to smear those grey layers and allow the sunshine to seep into our lives. Undeniably; this wouldn’t have been possible without a strong support system. Having said that I’d also like to share, that in the entire process elements like Self Drive, constant Self-Reassurance with a certain degree of poise all along …helped a great deal to fight it. Otherwise it would have been impossible to defeat. I referred, defeating life’s queer paradox.

Nevertheless, there are days when life gets tremendously busy & time seemingly flies ultra high. And then there are days when everything comes to a standstill. Nothing would move an inch further; leaving no clue with what to do subsequently. Those times frighten me. I get worried. I become uncontrollably paranoid. Its stark bitter - but obvious; not all times would be same. There would be highs and there would be lows. There would be good things and bad too…amidst all…Life goes on. It doesn’t stop. It hasn’t for anyone, it won’t for none.

Now, I have learnt my lessons. Our mind needs constant conditioning & therefore, a kick-start to a new evolved “Me”.

Oh God! Be by my side!

In the darkness of those nights,
… I would silently pray!

Oh God! Be by my side,
 & show me the ray of light.
The serenity to endure,
 & the strength to strive.

Oh God! Be by my side,
In the darkness of those nights!

For a Delightful Day…

I often like buying a bunch of fresh Rajnigandha flowers (Tuberoses). I bring them home; loosely arrange them in a beautiful vase with water in it & the following morning I wake up to a room full of delicate, sweet fragrance around.  I smell the freshness in the air, feel the joy and start a day with all smiles. 

Yes, I remember its Diwali today – a festival of lights! Here’s wishing all my beautiful friends/readers a Sparkling & Safe Diwali! May all the fragrance of flowers & brightness of lights fill your days & nights ahead!

Theatre – Art & Culture

Art has always mystified me. It leaves me spellbound each time I watch a performance. In this day and age, where there’s a wide range of glossy feature films, technically crafted motion pictures, glamorous actors, an elaborate crew of creative folks; Theatre – Staged dramas – Plays have almost lost its audience.

I can’t give up my passion for theatre & cannot miss an opportunity to grab a show being staged anywhere. Theatre culture in Hyderabad is slowly picking up. Thanks to Mr. Baig who has continued the legacy of his father, Late Mr. Qadir Ali Baig, an eminent theatre personality himself. His constant efforts to re-create the theatre magic is truly commendable. This time it’s a Festival staged across Hyderabad in 7 languages, for 10 days with 160 artistes.

Yesterday was the first show, “Lal Ded” (English, Hindi, Kashmiri) performed by Meeta Vashisht. It’s a Kashmiri folklore about a great mystic woman of Kashmir.Lalla, an extraordinary woman who tried to break all the social norms at an early age and gave up all in search of the spirit of Sahaj, the greater self. She uttered short verses that touched the lives and concern of all people in Kashmir. It isn’t easy at all, for a woman to bend the rules of society and live a life the way she did. I am glad that Meeta, through her plays is trying to enliven the character of Lalla in our hearts.

No pause, no breaks & at a stretch Meeta performed the character of Lalla / Lal Ded / Lalleshwari, recited her vaakhs, swirled around, transformed effortlessly into other characters, sometimes as Lalla’s mother in law, sometimes as her husband, or even as a merchant.

80 minutes of stupendous performance in the presence of an enthralling audience & I enjoyed it thoroughly. This was just the beginning, I am looking forward to a few more if not all the Plays.

Frivolous perceptions…

“She did not report to work today – again! Some “personal problem”!  Girls have these so many problems yaa…something or the other….” 

I have heard this often at work and wanted to retort too, but kept quiet thinking that it’s useless to even react to such people who lack that level of “understanding”. Moreover, I am shocked to hear some managers say “No, we don’t want girls in our team” strangely in an era where we talk about women’s contribution to economic growth etc…! Back home it could be so many things that “girls” may have to deal with. Household responsibilities, nursing someone, child-care, domestic issues, emotional turbulence, health hazards, some emergency, it could be anything. What do we do? Drop our career plans? 

I understand this so well since I have myself gone through it …sometimes it was health, sometimes this or that, or even instances wherein due to my own grief, a different frame of mind; I just could not report to work. I never felt comfortable to go to the work place, especially with swollen teary eyes. Never felt like exhibiting my emotions in front of a whole bunch of distant people and I gave reasons as “Not well”.

So? Is it fair to judge or classify on such grounds & stop giving opportunities to women?  Certainly not. Given our set of challenges most of us have still managed to strike a balance between work & home pretty effectively.

Maggi & chai tonight ;)

Maggi is something; I cannot avoid. Period. Fear of putting on weight just vanishes, when a bowl of piping hot maggi is served. When there’s nothing in store, quick maggi comes to rescue our hunger pangs. I have tried many versions of making a maggi – plain, soupy noodles, stir fried with loads of veggies, with eggs, curry noodles, etc and I love all the versions. With these extra efforts, 2 minutes is not enough though !! I have tried having maggi at odd hours too, past midnight, during evenings, it’s just an anytime meal for me… & yes yeh dil still maange more

Once in Bangalore I remember, amidst so many junk food options I opted for maggi, you may now imagine my craze for maggi

TGIF :)

It’s Friday evening & I am already thrilled at the thought of no waking up early mornings, no hurrying – worrying for the next 2 days. But, Friday evenings also bring around a lot of hard core thinking as in…how to effectively spend these two days… 

• A movie?
• Lunch/dinner?
• Meeting friends over coffer & some heartfelt conversation?
• Shopping?
• Self-pampering at a lovely Spa?
• Cooking or baking?
• Picnicking? 

Or… some good time lazying around at home with a book or possibly some sweet ‘n sour moments with family or all of that? Oh God!!! Can’t decide seriously! 

Leave my unresolved mind, may you all have a super weekend ahead!

Think positive,

and things might as well turn out to be positive. I am not sure if it helps, given the stressful life we lead every day but what’s the harm in trying? If we erase the negative occupants in our mind; probably it would be easy to comply.  

I want to try this & also since it’s in my blood you know B+ve

Sweet gesture to show “You care”!

Just after a home-made Sunday lunch, I crawled into my bed and felt extremely lazy to fetch a comforter to wrap around. Eventually, I crumpled and shivered in a cold weather and never realised when I dozed off.

Once I woke up, I found myself neatly covered with a warm quilt. My adorable mom caught a glimpse perhaps! 

Am sure it must have happened to you too, a simple & sweet gesture of uncanny love & care

Bougainvillea

I do not know why I have such a strong fascination towards these Bougainvillea flowers. They are thorny, have no fragrance, flourishes almost anywhere, sometimes called “Kaagaz ke phool” (Paper Flower) may be because of the dry texture, but i still love them & I always wanted to have them in my yard. Unfortunately, we do not have a yard here so got it for the terrace in a pot. After nourishing it for months together, I was delighted to see the beautiful clusters flowering this morning.  The vines with these frail colored flowers fall on the wall & adorn them in a unique way.

Life is like that, sometimes thorny & lacks lusture yet it’s beauty is desired!

Happy times ahead :)

Each time, each year after Raksha Bandhan, I feel so elated; as the string of festivities begin one after the other. Those declared offs from work, relaxed vacation for kids after exams, lots of revelry, meeting & greeting, shopping, fun and frolic – All brings copious amount of joy to us and our loved ones. I suppose, that’s exactly why India is a land of colourful festivals and cultural excellence. What say???

The smell of festivity is almost there in the air, and yes, I am loving it!!  Here’s wishing you & your loved ones a festive Blast this season!! 

- With lots of love & smileys 

Mother Teresa believed “Do it anyway”…

& so do I. Following  are those sayings…

People are often unreasonable,
illogical and self-centered;
Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind,
people may accuse you of selfish ulterior motives;
Be kind anyway.

If you are successful,
you will win some false friends and true enemies;
Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and frank,
people may cheat you;
Be honest anyway.

What you spend years building,
someone could destroy overnight;
Build anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness,
they may be jealous;
Be happy anyway.

The good you do today,
people will often forget tomorrow;
Do good anyway.

Give the world the best you have,
and it may never be enough;
Give the world the best you’ve got anyway.

You see, in the final analysis,
it is between you and God;
It was never between you and them anyway.

Things do not change, we change! ~ Henry David Thoreau

I sometimes think & wonder to what extent I have changed. Life has changed me for good or bad I do not know. But, I guess that’s the essence of life nevertheless. We do not remain the same forever; we transform & mature over years.

It’s occasionally factors like time, circumstances, surroundings or even people, that contribute to the change. Change in our behaviour, characteristics, change in our thoughts, change in our way of scrutinizing things, may be habits too. 

But, do people accept the change around us? Do they comprehend and accept things, the way we want to? I guess not so effortlessly.

Women can’t travel alone?

Yes, it’s fun to travel with friends & family. But, why do we have to think of so many aspects when we women may want to travel alone for a vacation/trip sometimes? Ofcourse the security aspect is there…but why? It’s otherwise so easy for men to simply back-pack and set off? I really feel envious on those grounds. In our case, we have to think, plan, explore, do reasearch, look for “safe” hotels, check with friends-family, re-think and then wonder and worry “what if something goes wrong”? Even if we make an attempt to travel, the “fear factor” doesn’t leave us, hounding our minds till the end “what if something goes wrong”. When will things be easy and not so complex?

I really want to venture out, explore places, and when I express my interest, all I hear is “No No it isn’t safe…you can’t travel alone”!

Robert Louis Stevenson quoted once, “For my part, I travel not to go anywhere, but to go. I travel for travel’s sake. The great affair is to move.” …

A friend in the backyard!

He lay under the rainy teared tree in my backyard
 his eyes smudged.
 He had been crying,
 I guess. I could never tell.
 
 Pretty eyes like his are always filled with a sadness
 that is distant and unending-
 like the sea. Why was he sad?
 I could not fathom why.
 
 He didn’t speak much, never had much to say.
 But I had much to tell him.
 Much to ask.
 But how do I?
 
 ”I could write to him. But he couldn’t read!”
 What would I call him?
 What was his name?
 
 I knew nothing about him
 this stranger in my backyard.
 Only this –
 the world had chased him away
 and here he’d come.
 Had he ended up chasing himself?
 
 If he was lonely, I could be his friend.
 Oh, I wanted to be his best friend.
 I wanted to go hug him.
 He would love me back.
 Would he not?
 
 I ran down to him
 I knelt down before him
 I put my hand on his pulsating heart
 He awoke with a stir
 Stood on all fours
 and said –  “Woof!”

By a friend named “Cheerfulness”. Thanks for allowing me to post this

I wonder…

to what extent people can stoop down? Deliberately trying to inflict pain? In the end I calm down thinking there are all kinds of people on earth.

May God show them the path of righteousness!

Have a blessed day…

Let the night pass slowly,
& the darkness shall pass too.
The following morning shall bring along,
Happiness, love & cheer.
The shadows of pain would disappear,
& the tears of joy shall flow.
Life would be blessed & there would be
…no more sorrow!

Have a wonderful & hopeful day ahead!

Weekend Breakfast

Sometimes I treasure these moments … A relaxed state of mind amidst a good ambience`, lost in a fantasy world, having a quiet breakfast with a lavish spread…enjoying every bite, followed by a lovely-aromatic warm cup of tea! Isn’t it a great way to kick start a weekend ?

May you all have a fun weekend ahead

A bejewelled night…

The night was bejewelled, with twinkling stars..
the wind hissed & the leaves rustled,
the fragrance of jasmine spread far & wide,
The moon that night; shone with pride,
With tinkling anklets and dangling bangles,
She began her journey as a bride,
her fragile face covered with veil,
she walked timidly to her new abode,
…with pure bliss & full of hope.

Its Life…afterall!

Pain, hurt, tribulation, disbelief, self-pity, anger, bitterness, guilt, helplessness, fear. We all go through this upheaval of emotions during life’s journey. But, it’s not wise to hurt oneself in the process, not by anyone/anything at all. One should not succumb but set the mind free from the burden of such emotional turbulence. It helps us evolve; it makes us stronger.

Life is all about choices. True! When it’s a right one, the road ahead looks hopeful and with one wrong choice, the road ahead gets precarious. Who said life was easier anyway?

My last post

Hold your heart,
 & listen softly,
You shall hear ,
the song of silence,
 & muse of life…!

Stillness in the air,
a rhythm that’s rare.
Soulful desire,
myriad tales,
A heart that …
longed to share.

Hold your heart,
& listen softly,
You shall hear
the song of silence,
 & muse of life…!

P.N.( This would be my last post. I thank each one of you for spending your valuable time in reading my blog &  leaving your generous comments. Not to forget… I made some good friends on my way who shall always remain close to my heart. My best-est wishes to all. Will try to return some day if I could, until then be good and keep smiling.)

What happens…

when the last string of hope also breaks into pieces?

A few gentle reminders for myself :)

• Remember, life is unpredictable, time is flying…you may want to do so many things…just do it. Care less
• It’s always good to look forward to a new day, a new beginning and be hopeful
• Don’t get flustered with every small thing. Such petty things are better ignored. It’s unhealthy
• Celebrate …don’t find reasons to celebrate. Just go ahead and have some fun
• Open your mind, write more, express yourself, you would feel less burdened
• Be more calm and composed and learn to relax. That’s when you can think good and do good
• Life is beautiful, ENJOY it and LIVE more

We all try, but somehow when life has so much to offer, we tend to overlook these things and get only captivated in the whirlpool of problems. Here’s a set of gentle reminders for me and my mind. Please feel free to add more if you have any

Some Coffee?

An evening that marks an end to a tiring day at work. Would you not want to indulge yourself for all the hard work? Not with parties, lavish dinner, get-togethers etc…but simply with a warm cup of coffee to go with my favourite Blueberry Muffin at a favourite coffee bar.

Happy Weekend!!

A wandering mind!

A mixed feeling, rather a confused one, lost in thoughts, almost unsure! Sometimes, its not what we want, yet it happens. Why, how, what…no one knows. Still, there are questions unanswered and then there are severe uncertainties.  Is there any end? I guess not or I hope there is. A wandering mind that needs to be tethered. A distraught mind that needs rest.   

P.N.-(Sorry for being away..am doing okay…just itsy-bitsy things. Thank you for your concern, your emails…& all your UNCONDITIONAL love and support! I guess this is what got me back to my blog world, to my blog friends)

Love!