Scorpion Wings,

Ethnic Party wear for men .

2012-02-14T17:09:00.000+05:30

24 Clever Ideas

2012-02-12T21:13:00.000+05:30

Hull strawberries easily using a straw.

Rubbing a walnut over scratches in your furniture
will disguise dings and scrapes.

Remove crayon masterpieces from your TV or
computer screen with WD40.

Stop cut apples browning in your child’s lunch box
by securing with a rubber band.

Overhaul your linen cupboard, store bed linen sets
inside one of their own pillowcases and there will
be no more hunting through piles for a match.

Pump up the volume by placing your iPhone & iPod
in a bowl. The concave shape amplifies the music.

Re-use a wet-wipes container to store plastic bags.

Add this item to your beach bag. Baby powder
gets sand off your skin easily, who knew?!

Attach a Velcro strip to the wall to store soft toys.

Use wire to make a space to store gift wrap rolls
against the ceiling, rather than cluttering up the
floor.

Find tiny lost items like earrings by putting a
stocking over the vacuum hose.

Make an instant cupcake carrier by cutting
crosses into a box lid.

For those who can’t stand the scrunching and
bunching: how to perfectly fold a fitted sheet.

Forever losing your bathroom essentials? Use
magnetic strips to store bobby pins, tweezers
and clippers, behind a vanity door

Store shoes inside shower caps to stop dirty
soles rubbing on your clothes. And you can
find them in just about every hotel.

A muffin pan becomes a craft caddy. Magnets
hold the plastic cups down to make them
tip-resistant.

Bread tags make the perfect cord labels.

Bake cupcakes directly in ice-cream cones, so
much more fun and easier for kids to eat.

Microwave your own popcorn in a plain brown paper
bag. Much healthier and cheaper than the packet
stuff.

Install a tension rod to hang your spray bottles.

Turn your muffin pan upside down, bake cookie-dough
over the top and voila, you have cookie bowls for fruit
or ice-cream.

Freeze Aloe Vera in ice-cube trays for soothing
sunburn relief.

Create a window-box veggie patch using guttering.

Use egg cartons to separate and store your
Christmas decorations.

Beautiful Necklace sets

2012-02-12T16:37:00.000+05:30

Multi Color Stone Accessories

2012-02-12T16:30:00.000+05:30

Damaged Damn Age !

2012-02-11T16:50:00.000+05:30

Age and date of birth keep chasing you from birth to death, without these details neither can you live nor die peacefully!

It starts with the birth certificate , admission in school, job, senior citizen concession, bus pass, job application, marriage , PAN card, voting, watching movies, driving license ,death etc...

In our times there was no birth certificate , elders words were bible getting admission in school was never a headache. No one asked for the certificates, the deliveries were mostly at home, at the time of admitting parents were hardly there and it was either some relatives or friends who played the role of parents in the name of guardian.

People in villages never know when their kids were born and if you ask them they would either say the child was born when there was a heavy flood, drought, cyclone etc,,,, or would say the year next to Ambi's birth,Cheenu's birth.....

I was told for my brother my athai ( my father's sister ) gave the name as Nandagopal at the time of admission. We were given admission on the condition that we could touch our nose by taking the arm behind our head and if we could do so, we were enrolled for Class one.

In a hurry to send the kids to school so that the house gets ready for the next sibling trying to push out, they cooked the year of birth by a year ahead or later. My husband lost a year at the time of retirement and my father gained by a year!

But the scenario has changed three decades back, birth certificates were issued at the municipality and hospitals recorded the birth and death, it has become mandatory for getting the originals and multiple copies of them. No one could blame the height for the real age, but in buses and other places they have the height chart to know the truth of the correct age.The current generation and the next just grow so fast in height and girth that it becomes difficult to guess the age!

See what our nation is undergoing with the Army Gen goofing up his age and it's still a question is it 1950 or 1951?It's a shame on him ,he has used the forged age to get entry and when it comes to exit he wants to keep it? Where is the justice and logic?

There is a saying that one should not ask the age of a lady and the salary of a man.Now both are out and no one minds it.

Another aspect in a marital life is the wife is always young for the husband , he keeps getting everything in his place from basic water to mobile phone and bechari wife has to run errands for him till her death. Husbands have the retirement from job, but even if the wife retires from job, she has to wield the ladle in the kitchen instead of the pen ! For her there is no retirement, the husband keep saying they are getting old but it is never true for their partners. She keeps doing the same chores from day one day end.

But they do not leave any stone unturned for looking young, and they not ready to accept aging , they start dyeing the hair, dress up like young ones outwardly but can hardly do anything to keep the age related packages like diabetes, arthritis, cataract, blood pressure, Parkinson's, hearing problem etc.

Shakespeare said, 'Age cannot wither her , nor custom stale her infinite variety....."
but the truth is,' age cannot wither her nor her difficult customs stale her infinite courage......."

Necklace Sets

2012-02-10T17:24:00.000+05:30

Partywear salwars, kameeze and Sherwanis

2012-02-09T14:55:00.000+05:30

Many Wonders of the Neem Tree

2012-02-08T17:00:00.000+05:30

A neem paste applied directly to the sores caused by chicken pox, will relieve the itching and reduce scarring.

Another way to treat psoriasis as well as eczema, skin ulcers, fungal conditions, cold sores and athletes foot, is to mix 1 tablespoon neem oil and 4 ounces of olive oil. This should be applied at least twice daily to the affected areas.

As a treatment for burns and even sunburn, neem oil can kill the bacteria, reduce the pain and stimulate the immune system. By stimulating the immune system it speeds up the healing process and there is less scarring.

Blood disorders such as blood poisoning, kidney problems and poor circulation have been benefited by the use of neem.

Drinking neem tea during an outbreak of influenza will help alleviate some of the symptoms and speed up the recovery time. Neem has an amazing ability to literally surround viruses and prevent them from even infecting the cells.

For acne problems take 2 capsules twice daily, you will start to see results within a few days.

For athletes foot, soak feet in warm water with 15 ml of neem oil.

For centuries neem has been used to reduce tumors. Clinical research has shown remarkable effects in the reduction of tumors and cancers and also in treating leukemia.

For headaches neem powder should be applied to the forehead, neem oil should also work in combating headaches when used the same way.

For hemorrhoids, apply some neem oil to a cotton ball and gently rub for about a week. If preferred a paste can be made by adding a small amount of olive oil or Aloe Vera oil until desired consistency is reached.

For pink eye the juice of neem leaves can be used as eye drops, warm 5-10 ml and apply several drops.

For shingles, neem cream should be applied to the affected area at least three times per day. Severe cases should also be treated with neem tea after each meal, but tea should not be consumed for more than two weeks at a time.

For sinusitis, plain pure neem oil can be used as nasal drops. Use tow drops twice daily, morning and evening.

If you suffer from burning sensations and excessive sweating, add 5 to 10 drops of neem oil in a glass of milk before going to bed.

In a recent study neem was shown to lower cholesterol levels when taken for a month in either the capsule form or the extract.

In it’s use of treating hepatitis, 80% of test subjects showed a significant improvement. The neem extract can actually block the infection that causes this virus.

In treating diabetes, neem has been found to actually reduce the insulin requirements by as much as 50% without altering the blood glucose levels. Take 3 to 5 drops internally each day.

It is reported that neem will help in fighting chronic fatigue.

Laboratory studies have proven neem to be effective in treating the symptoms of food poisoning associated with both salmonella and staphylococcus. Neem extracts kill the salmonella bacteria and flush it out of your system, reducing the severity and length of the ailment.

Neem also contains powerful anti-fungal properties that have been shown to aide in the treatment of athletes foot, yeast infections, thrush and even ringworm.

Neem cleanses the blood, stimulates antibody protection and strengthens the immune system which improves the bodies resistance to many diseases.

Neem detoxifies the body and helps maintain healthy circulatory systems, digestive and respiratory systems and helps to keep the urinary tract free of infections.

Neem is highly effective in treating gastritis, indigestion and heartburn.

Neem oil can be applied to cuts and abrasions to help them heal quickly. Neem increases blood flow which aids in creating the collagen fibers that helps the wounds to close.

Neem oil should be stored in a cool dark place, if the oil solidifies it can be placed in warm water to bring back to liquid form.

Neem oil will quickly stop earaches, just warm some oil and apply a few drops into the ear.

Neem tea drank once or twice weekly can even help prevent colds. If you already have the symptoms associated with a cold they can be lessened by drinking neem tea three times a day. It will help alleviate the fever, cough, aches and pains, sore throat, fatigue and nasal congestion.

Neem will increase the bodies production of T-cells, which will attack infections.

Proclaimed the best product available in treating psoriasis, 2 capsules should be taken three times daily after meals with a glass of water.

Scientific evidence has shown that neem is valuable in boosting the bodies immune system. A healthier immune system helps your body in fighting off many illness and diseases.

Scientific studies have proven that neem will reduce blood clots, heart irregularities and even reduce blood pressure. Results can be seen within one month on a regimen of extract or capsules.

Secondary bacterial infections in the nasal passages and respiratory system can be decreased by inhaling steam from boiling the leaves.

The inflammation, pain and swelling of the joints associated with arthritis can be greatly relieved with the use of neem. Neem changes the immune systems response to arthritis and can halt the progress of this disease.

The length and severity of an outbreak of mononucleosis can be decreased by drinking neem tea twice a day for two weeks.

The Many Wonders of the Neem Tree

The Neem tree is a fast growing evergreen that is native to Pakistan, India, Bangladesh and Myanmar. This amazing tree is claimed to treat forty different diseases. All the parts of the tree is used for treating illness, the leaves, fruit, seeds and even the bark all contain medicinal properties.

The use of neem as a medicinal herb dates back over 5,000 years. Today it’s benefits have been proven by scientific research and clinical trials. And, although few of us have access to a neem tree, it can be purchased in the form of oil, powder and pills.

The use of neem oil on the skin is known to actually rejuvenate the skin, it also promotes collagen and will work in the treatment of many skin conditions including acne. Acne can be cleared up with a few day by taking two neem capsules twice daily.

Thrush can be effectively treated with neem tea, it will reduce the inflammation, reduce the pain and speed healing. Children under the age of 12 should not drink neem tea, for children this young it should only be used to gargle.

To give you an idea of the healing powers of the neem tree, here are a few names that the people of India have given it, “Divine Tree”, “Village Pharmacy”, “Heal All” and “Nature’s Drugstore”. With the almost ending list of uses for neem, I think it could be called, ” The Tree of Life”!

To kill head lice, neem oil should be massaged into the scalp and left on over night. Shampoo your hair as usual the next morning.

To prevent hair loss and enhance growth, mix a few drops of neem oil with coconut or olive oil and massage into scalp. This will even prevent your hair from graying!

To remove moles and warts, one drop of undiluted neem oil should be directly to the mole or wart and then covered with a small bandage. The procedure should be repeated daily using fresh oil and clean bandage.

To treat jaundice, mix 30 ml of neem juice with 15 ml of honey, take on an empty stomach for seven days.

Use of a neem based powder for jock itch will reduce the itching, dry the area and kill the fungus. For severe cases a neem lotion may be more effective.

Used as a mouth wash it treats infections, mouth ulcers, bleeding sore gums and will even help prevent tooth decay!

With all of the countless medicinal benefits that are already provided with the use of neem, it is also being studied very closely for a treatment for AIDS, cancer, allergies, diabetes and both male and female forms of birth control!

A collection of Mehandi Designs Part 6

2012-02-08T15:53:00.000+05:30

Anarkali Churidar Kameez.

2012-02-06T11:40:00.001+05:30

Necklace set designs

2012-02-04T19:45:00.000+05:30

A Grandma's hands.

2012-01-31T16:32:00.000+05:30

From a forwarded mail.................

JUST LOOK AT THE PICTURE A GOOD WHILE, AND THEN READ THE REST. IT WILL TOUCH YOU.

""I was privileged to take a photo of 'Five Generations of Women 'Grandma's Hands''

GRANDMA'S HANDS
A must read thru to the end please!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Grandma, some ninety plus years, sat feebly on the patio bench.. She didn't move, just sat with her head down staring at her hands.

When I sat down beside her she didn't acknowledge my presence and the longer I sat I wondered if she was OK.

Finally, not really wanting to disturb her but wanting to check on her at the same time, I asked her if she was OK. She raised her head and looked at me and smiled. 'Yes, I'm fine, thank you for asking,' she said in a clear voice strong...

'I didn't mean to disturb you, grandma, but you were just sitting here staring at your hands and I wanted to make sure you were OK,' I explained to her.

'Have you ever looked at your hands,' she asked. 'I mean really looked at your hands?'

I slowly opened my hands and stared down at them. I turned them over, palms up and then palms down. No, I guess I had never really looked at my hands as I tried to figure out the point she was making.

Grandma smiled and related this story:

'Stop and think for a moment about the hands you have, how they have served you well throughout your years. These hands, though wrinkled shriveled and weak have been the tools I have used all my life to reach out and grab and embrace life..

'They braced and caught my fall when as a toddler I crashed upon the floor..

They put food in my mouth and clothes on my back. As a child, my mother taught me to fold them in prayer. They tied my shoes and pulled on my boots. They held my husband and wiped my tears when he went off to war.

'They have been dirty, scraped and raw, swollen and bent. They were uneasy and clumsy when I tried to hold my newborn son. Decorated with my wedding band they showed the world that I was married and loved someone special.

They wrote my letters to him and trembled and shook when I buried both my parents and spouse.

'They have held my children and grandchildren, consoled neighbors, and shook in fists of anger when I didn't understand.

They have covered my face, combed my hair, and washed and cleansed the rest of my body. They have been sticky and wet, bent and broken, dried and raw. And to this day when not much of anything else of me works real well these hands hold me up, lay me down, and again continue to fold in prayer.

'These hands are the mark of where I've been and the ruggedness of life.

But more importantly it will be these hands that God will reach out and take when he leads me home. And with my hands He will lift me to His side and there I will use these hands to touch the face of God.'

I will never look at my hands the same again. But I remember God reached out and took my grandma's hands and led her home. When my hands are hurt or sore or when I stroke the face of my children and husband I think of grandma. I know she has been stroked and caressed and held by the hands of God...

I, too, want to touch the face of God and feel His hands upon my face.

Necklace set Designs

2012-01-31T13:38:00.000+05:30

Beautiful Kundan Jewelery set

2012-01-28T18:45:00.000+05:30

Ekadasi fasting and its benefits

2012-01-27T18:04:00.001+05:30

Every month of the Hindu calendar has two auspicious days of Ekadasi. It falls on the eleventh day of the fortnight of the lunar cycle. The first Ekadasi occurs when the moon is closest to the earth and the second Ekadasi occurs when the moon is farthest from the earth. The Ekadasi days are also indicators of the high and low tides of the sea. There are 24 Ekadasis in a year and each Ekadasi has a unique name. Ekadasi is observed as a day of fasting and devotion.

Benefits of Ekadasi fasting:

• It brings the blessings of Lord Vishnu.

• It liberates one from the cycle of birth and death.

• It gives one freedom from the sins of the past.

• It fulfills the wishes of health, wealth and happiness.

• It enhances the physiological functions of the body.

• It helps in flushing out the toxins from the body.

• It helps to strengthen one’s self-control.

• It improves one’s emotional stability.

Methods of Ekadasi Fasting:

• Complete fasting involves total abstinence from food and water for 24 hours.

• Partial fasting involves consumption of fruits and milk and the avoidance of rice and grains.

• People with health problems can opt for partial fasting after consulting with their doctors.

• Some people take only a single meal on the Dasami day, the day before Ekadasi.

The 24 different Ekadasis

Mythological Significance of Ekadasi:

It is believed that Ekadasi is the name of the Goddess that arose from Lord Vishnu to defeat Demon Mura. Happy with her divine act, Lord Vishnu blessed her that anyone who observes Ekadasi fast will be freed of their sins and will attain Moksha.

The 24 different Ekadasis:

1. Putrada Ekadasi:

There is a popular belief that married couples without children will be blessed with children if they observe Putrada Ekadasi.

2. Shatilla Ekadasi:

On this day, Til (sesame) is used in six ways. It is used in Ubtan, bathing, performing Havans, Tarpan, meal and donations.

3. Jaya Ekadasi:

The greatness of this Ekadasi was narrated to Yudhishtira by Sri Krishna and is found in the Padma Purana and the Bhavisyothara Purana.

4. Vijaya Ekadasi:

The major belief behind practicing this ritual is the observance of a vrat by Lord Ram before he headed towards crossing the ocean to reach Lanka and defeating Ravana.

5. Amalki Ekadasi:

Dedicated to Amlaki or Gooseberry Tree, observance of this Ekadasi is believed to bring in great prosperity and benefits.

6. Papamochini Ekadasi:

Observing a vrat on this day is highly significant as a sincere devotee can get rid of all his sins committed so far.

7. Kamda Ekadasi:

A fast on this day will assist in getting rid of all sins and guilt that are a result of lust.

8. Varuthini Ekadasi:

The vrat is a step towards a fortunate phase of life.

9. Mohini Ekadasi:

Eliminates all sins and helps in leading a happy and prosperous life. Also, a person undergoing sadness is effectively able to overcome this sickness.

10. Apara Ekadasi:

This vrat would help in eliminating their sins and henceforth, would finally assist them in attaining Moksha, or salvation.

11. Nirjala Ekadasi:

It is the strictest fast among all the Ekadashis in the Hindu religion as one cannot even drink water while observing it.

12. Yogini Ekadasi:

It is the most significant Ekadashi fast in order to get rid of various ailments and diseases.

13. Devshayani Ekadasi:

It is believed that Lord Vishnu went into a deep sleep for the next four months beginning from this day.

14. Kamika Ekadasi:

This vrat is considered highly significant and auspicious for performing good deeds and seeking blessings of the Lord.

15. Aja Ekadasi: This vrat eradicates all sinful and evil activities.

16. Parivartan Ekadasi:

On this Ekadasi day Lord Vishnu who reclines on Aadishesha turns to another side and this turn is called as Parivarthan.

17. Indira Ekadasi:

It is believed that observing this Ekadasi will help in removing the sins committed by oneself and one’s forefathers.

18. Pasankusa Ekadasi:

One will be able to fulfill his dreams and observing it is equal to performing numerous yajnas and making several offerings.

19. Rama Ekadasi:

Sins and evil deeds can be washed away by observing a vrat on this day.

20. Prabhodini Ekadasi:

The Hindu devotees believe that Lord Vishnu woke up from his Yoga Nidra (cosmic sleep) on this day.

21. Utpanna Ekadasi:

One can enjoy all kinds of comforts and gets the shelter of Lord Vishnu, after death.

22. Mokshada Ekadasi:

helps in attaining Moksha, or liberation.

23. Saphala Ekadasi:

Sins of many generations of a person are removed by observing the fast of Saphala Ekadasi.

24. Haribobhini (Devotthani) Ekadasi.

Walking style..

2012-01-24T18:19:00.001+05:30

Gait differs from person to person. Actually if you notice the hands do not go together while walking, if the left foot goes forward the right hand follows it, how many have noticed this? Imagine if one has to move simultaneously, how funny and awkward it would look.

I have observed many times, Ragav has the habit of moving any one hand and the other very close to the body with no movements , Kitty moves both as if trying to grab something, Athmanath the hands will be close to the chest, Rakesh with one hand always in the pocket, Harish busy talking in his mind that he would not notice as he keeps moving his right hand constantly.

Though the hand movements remain the same, Manju keeps adjusting her dupatta quite often trying to put it back around her neck as it keeps changing position in her hurry walk, Savitri, her legs will go fast forward but she has to literally push her torso to the front complimenting her lower part, Krutika, her right leg and right hand will make one rotation and then the left will follow straight.

Olivia has her mobile stuck to her left ear, Laila busy chatting and from distance if you see her gestures and smile , definitely you would mistake her for a lunatic. Parth would push his butt back and walk, while Jackie pumps his chest and walks . Gattu walks as if his ' aathi nahi ' has 'aagaye', and walks to get into loo fast.

Saravanan walks like a wave taking along with him those who are close by, Harsha walks with a bag in her hand and quite often keeps saying sorry with a smile ,she is nicknamed as hurry Harsha.

Anbnan makes a peculiar sound when he walks with his chappals , but it doesnot come when he walks with his shoes on.

Phani walks like she has only one foot because the sound comes only when she gives the pressure with her left foot, the same does not come with her right foot. Perhaps her left is strong, right?

Balram walks so slowly that you feel like walking for him, and Manisha walks like the way they pray to walk in temples: [walking the adip pradakshinam ], here after keeping one foot, the next stride starts by keeping the heel above the toes of the first foot.

adip pradakshinam

Coming to kids, they jump and hop with one foot and then try and run with the other. Hands will be busy munching the Lays Packet or some chips , wafer packets.

I walk with my right shoulder slightly up and my left shoulder slightly droops. I consciously try to move both my hands in rhythm.Those who are short take short steps and walk fast.

When I go with my husband for walk I agree to 'an unsigned pact' that he would ' keep in step' with me , considering his height he is always 5-6 steps ahead of me and sometimes people would think we have fought at home and so maintaining distance!

It's inspiring to see some walk so briskly, the enthu will be passed on to you, not only do they dress up well but also walk cheerfully with a smile on their faces.

I know now you would start observing people whether what I have mentioned is true or not, why waiting, get up and start!

Foodie ............... Rajdhani Bangalore central

2012-01-24T18:15:00.000+05:30

Every New Year we have lunch out in a good restaurant. We had already visited this on June 27 th on our wedding anniversary. I wanted to try Maiyaa in Jayanagar, since they have closed Gujarati food , Arjun suggested we go to the same Rajdhani. He has booked just in case they take advance booking, normally it's first come first served basis in Bangalore restaurants.

We set out at 12 and we were under the impression we would be on time but lo, a huge rush and people were waiting outside. Our problem was when Anoushka is free and had her breakfast we can move and she would go to sleep. So the time deadline was worrying us . Fortunately in 15 min time we could get a place suitable to keep her carrycot so that she dozes off comfortably.

There are no words to express the delicious food, and since we all liked and were familiar with gujju fod, and taste, we really relished it to the final lick!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

When compared to the UB City Rajdhani, the price is half and tasty, the Mantri Square Rajdhani is rated third in taste and choice.

The items were typical only thing disappointing was the mutiya in Undhiyu was smaller and hardly one can see brinjals , more of papdi and thuver.

The beeda was good to look at and it reminded me of a saying, " every house has many skeletons in the cupboard ,( like the inner varities of stuff in a beeda) but it all matters how it's presented and (like the clove / lavang which is pinned on the wrapping ) topped in appearance.

i.e in some families whatever boils within , it's never brought out or seen by others , overall presentations is important and essentials.

Cellphone stackingduring lunch or dinner

2012-01-20T18:21:00.000+05:30

A good idea for those who have the cell phone addiction to keep their hands free off for some time.But how many can do so?

It's quite common to see 80 % of the public busy talking over the cell ireespective of what they are doing, driving, crossing the road, talking, waiting for the bus, before the pay bill counter at many places.

During lunch or dinner it's not good to pick up the phone to attend a call, the callers can wait.., either tell them you are having dinner and call back or just do not lift.

Oblivous of the person waiting to serve you, you engage in a long chat and I wait like an ullu for the chat to end?

Reading the SMS es at the dinner table, picking up to see...

It is irritating to see the other person picking up the phone to check, SMSes, attend the call etc while busy on a conversation with me , I feel I have become insignificant and vanished from the scene. Why should I feel so bad? If the call is important atleast tell me or hold the person explaining everything and make a SMS yaarr!

Next is gesturing you to excuse him/ her?

Especially while in a restaurant it eats up my nerves, when I see the adjacent customers talking loudly over phone.

Coming to the title, I read today that in some countries they have decided to stack the cell phones upside down on the centre of the table while dining out and the first one who yields to the temptation foots the bill!

How nice if it's followed here , something should also come for the same at home lunches and dinners.

"Wav , What an idea sirji!"

Far from the madding crowds.....

2012-01-19T14:48:00.000+05:30

Here is a short travelogue from my sis ..with pictures.

It all began with a casual chat with Sandhya about her holiday at Anjarle- a remote dwelling among the untrodden ways beside the coast of Konkan. Ever since, I wanted a modest 3 day holiday to that place and it took me nearly a year and a half to make it happen. The last family outing we had was 3 and half years back, to Kadkani, Coorg.

I surfed the net and booked the Kamat's Lotus Resorts at Murud of Harnai-Dapoli ( there is another Murud beach at Janjira to which place I've been with Nandu, Vedu and Lavan on 26th Dec 2004-just when tsunami in Indian Ocean hit Tamil Nadu ) for a diwali vacation- but it was not to be as I suffered a slight setback in health.

The advance money was non-refundable, but I could still avail of the stay within a time of 2 months subject to availability of rooms, after which time, it would lapse. Fortunately, I could make it in the 3rd week of Dec.

This beach on the konkan coast ( the western coast line of peninsular India is divided into Malabar coast of Kerala and Konkan coast of Goa-maharashtra) is actually just about 180 or so kms from Pune, but it would have been a roller coaster ride, given the road conditions- so we took a different route of about 240kms one way, across 4 districts-Pune, Satara, Raigad and Ratnagiri.

Day 1-16.12.2011-Friday:

After breakfast, left at 7.45 am-took the Bombay-Bangalore highway-got to spot some windmills on the hilltops on the way-took a right turn towards Mahabhaleshwar. Stopped briefly at Wai just to click snaps of the mandirs on the river banks-the only reason being they had featured in SRK's 'Swades'. Stopped at Panchgani for a toilet break. Panchgani btw, is famous for residential schools where many celebrity children have been schooled and Aamir Khan married Kiran Rao at his farm house there in an exclusive 'do'-don't mind the trivia or else the travel would feel more like a travail.

Mahabhaleshwar is the only hill station of repute in Maharashtra and so the Pune and Bombay crowd goes 'ga ga' over it-but it's no patch on our Ooty, Kodai or even Yercaud. Anyway, we reached the resort after a 6 hr journey of which 4 hrs were in the ghat section, through Wai, Maha..eshwar, Poladpur, Khed and Dapoli.

The last stretch was very much like the drive to Kadkani with lush greenery on either side. The resort's signboards started greeting us every 2 km of the last 20 kms. It was 1.45 pm when we reached and so we headed for lunch rightaway. Food is a la carte but unlimited and all breakfast, lunch, snacks and dinner are included in the package. I was suddenly overcome with a craving for 'கொழுக்கட்டை' and on my demand, they served me that as dessert at dinner-Ask and thou shalt be given! The konkan region is famous for fish delicacies and so I told the girls to try it, but they chose to dig into to chicken and panneer instead.

Sukan retired to the room while the three of us sun bathed on the hammocks overlooking the beach. Later, as Chandru watched the sunset, lavan and I roamed around the beach. The sea is rather quiet with modest waves making it look more like a massive wave pool. The sand is a shiny greyish black- கரிசல் மண். The crabs had left strange tracks on the sand-one even looked like the Palm Jumeirah of Dubai- Lavan says I just can't stop drawing parallels no matter what, which I must admit, is true. Later on, C and I spent a quiet time listening to the waves in the cool night air.

Day 2-17.12,2011-Saturday:

Daybreak saw Sukan and self on the beach. Murud beach is lined with 4 or 5 resorts all in a line parallel to the sea-all their backyards open out to the beach, with only the guests of the respective resort seen on the beach-it can't get any more private than this in India. The beach wore a new look now- the tide was low now and the previous evening's high tide had left a strip of shallow stream ( thank you, I appreciate you noticed the alliteration)- as you walk towards the sea, you first cross the narrow stream, kick some sand before the waves wash your feet.

Sukan got so busy spotting hermit crabs and oyster shells that she forgot to play badminton-we had lugged the rackets all the way from Pune. Shells were collected with an eye for variety, washed and wrapped for safekeeping ( and forgotten soon after it got packed-where on earth is it now?-who knows and who cares!). Day to go sight seeing. Suvarnadurg fort is a sea fort and one has to reach there by ferry at the mercy of local fishermen and it's not maintained well, I was told.

Dabhol power plant is quite far away and is only of academic interest; Keshavraj temple is a trek of 150 steps and climbing in the hot sun is not everyone's cup of tea and is better enjoyed in a group. Dolphin-spotting can become a nightmare with no life jackets provided-just a few months ago, several people drowned when their boat capsized-moreover, dolphins may not oblige you with a darshan-they are not IBM after all ( on demand, I mean). So I decided on a sensible 'sights for sour eyes' only- as one drives to the Kadyavarcha Ganpati mandir (ganpati mandir on a cliff) one gets to have a panoramic view of the sea fort of Suvarnadurg, the land fort of Kanakadurg (its twin), the sea, the coast, the verdant hills and a bridge across the backwaters-all in one sweep of the enchanted eye.

Kadyavarcha Ganpati mandir

stopping by woods on a sunny afternoon

sukan searches for sea shells on the sea shore

blue moon ok pink sun anyone.

Mgnificent sunset at Murud Harnai.

retail raja of Anjarle.

aagaaya pandaliley ponnoonjal.

kya riddle hai

The beach actually lies at the foothill of the mountains. Beauty for once is not in the eyes of the beholder but at what is beheld! Everybody recommends this trip to the mandir just for this view.

While returning, we took a small detour to the Wyaghreshwar mandir and Zoladevi mandir en route Aasud village. The former is claimed to be a swayambhu lingam while the latter is a gram devata. Both are tucked away from the main road and the dirt track poses a challenge to any vehicle. The mandirs are more like sheds with gopuram atop. Anyway what captured our interest was the river flowing nearby.

Here too, as in the case of our resort, the backyard offered more scenic view than the frontyard. Initially we were scared to test the waters as we heard rustles from the bushes lining the banks but the water was so inviting, we found a way around to get into the waters.

footprints on the sand.......

resort's backyard

Sukan's Paduka.

widmills of gods

Photo op not photo shop

get set, go jet skiing

double action

sand art

We had time to stand and stare without a care, but the pristine beach beckoned us back to the resort. It was time for some aquatic adventure-the girls went jet-skiing and tho' it lasted just for a couple of minutes, it gave them an adrenalin rush all the same. Para sailing was not to be, as there was no breeze. They were drenched with the surf and went to dry and change. As I waited for their return I was privy to the most magnificent sunset I've ever seen.

A host of sea gulls were flapping their wings so low over the waters in front of the setting sun-very much like the white-clad extras ( ல ல லா பெண்கள் as writer சுஜாதா would say) dancing around the heroine in a Bharatiraja song sequence. I don't know why, but whenever I watch a sunset, a sense of melancholy or rather a sense of solitude overwhelms me.

Every sight and sound fade into the background...it's as tho' the sun is holding a private screening just for the oh so privileged me! எனக்காக,எனக்காக மட்டும் ...

As the sun changed colours in rapid succession and went down in a hurry, the horizon came alive in a riot of colours from a palette only Nature can hold..Everytime I watch the twilight sky, I recall amma introducing the word 'crimson' to my vocabulary. The girls returned to enjoy the surf and sand.

twilight saga

Wai mandirs

Mt. Everest's country cousin

Sun playing hide and seek

Ganpati mandir is a white speck on the hill

but for the power lines..what a scenic view...

hands up, or else I photo shoot

Strangely, I never could spot a cloud-not even a solitary one in the vast expanse of the sky- remember the song 'அவள் பறந்து போனாளே' from 'பார் மகளே பார்' where Muthuraman shuffles his feet on the beach-sand beneath, sea behind, a myriad cauliflower clouds forming a canopy above- all captured in breath-taking black and white.I was hoping to capture some such scene (thank you once again) but no luck. Back to the inviting hammocks, as dusk changed to night. 'நைட்டு கலரு ப்ளாக்கு ப்ளாக்கு' I hummed in கொலைவெறி Dhanush style and my girls followed with 'அம்மா பிளீசு ஸ்டாப்பு '..Kya family hai! A lonely star came into view between the trees-couldn't help recalling Wordsworth's 'fair as a star when only one is shining in the sky'. Lavan managed to capture that in B & W . Snaps that we took that night in B &W look rather eerie as in TV shows on paranormal activities, tho' it wasn't so actually.

silent night,eerie night

pathway to horizon

silvery sheen

Palm Jumeirah,eh.

sundance on sea

view from the beach of the resort's backyard.

bridge on the backwaters

lonely star

beauty in B & W

Day 3-18.12.2011 Sunday

Goodbye Murud! Checked out at 11 am and drove back the same way stopping at Mahabhaleshwar for lunch, at home sweet home by 7.15 pm. Short and sweet, and just what the doctor ordered for stressed souls. Rejuvenated and recharged to take on the Monday morning blues!

P.S: When you are dealing with me, you must realize there is always something to be said even after everything is said and done. So here it goes..
Kamat's of the restaurant chains, now have beach resorts under the brand name 'Lotus' and city hotels under the name 'VITS'.

If you are planning a stay at this place, ask for a room upstairs-it has a better view of the shore and you won't be greeted by surprise visitors- a frog jumped in and out of our doorway and the next morning a spider greeted me at the bathroom- I had to hit it or else we would have had some not so hilarious 'Eureka' moments...

The ubiquitous SBI was the only bank I could spot on Dapoli main road-felt good about the family connection.

Last but not the least, if it's any consolation to you all, C and I were the oldest couple in the resort with grown up children and a child of about 2 years referred to me as 'ajji' ( grandma), thanks to the grey matter on the scalp- so go buy yourself a drink and laugh to your heart's content and make merry!
- photos follow in the next mail.

-viji.

Pune International Film Festival

2012-01-13T15:51:00.000+05:30

A mail from my sister

last evening was the inauguration of Pune International Film festival. My delegate pass said the pass was valid for opening and closing ceremony subject to availability of seats which would be on 'first come first' basis. So you had movie buffs lining up at the venue City Pride Kothrud from 3 pm onwards, a full 90 min. before the appointed time. Around 4pm we were ushered into Screen 2. What greeted us was the 'silver screen' and no sign of a dais for the ceremony. Then it transpired that the 'actual' ceremony would take place next door at Screen 1 with VIPs and Invitees in the audience while we idiots who had paid for the passes would have to make do with a 'live telecast' in Screen 2.3and 4. This unleashed a 'kolaveri' in me as I felt my adnaav has been changed to 'Moorkha' without my knowledge or consent.

I stepped out and asked to speak to the organisers or the Press but expectedly, was turned down-I did the next best thing-a volunteer who had no clue of what awaited him came forward in all innocence and he got the full blast, with no personal offense to him of course. I came back and started 'hyper ventillating' to the ones seated around-slowly people realized they''ve been made 'ullu' and decided to step out and voice their anger- a crowd inc. yours truly walked out, stationed ourselves near Screen1 and shouted in marathi and English at whoever was going in. While the local ones understood what all the hungama was about and rushed in without a glance, the firang ones thought they were being cheered and smiled and waved -the anti climax of it all!

I came back home and posted my comment on the festival's facebook page promptly-hell hath no fury like a woman taken for granted...

Only Pune can say 'international'' while meaning 'local'-local not as in'pune', but as in 'kothrud'.

Viji

I fully support you and appreciate the courage you have done to show your frustration. I know how much you were anticipating to fulfil your long wish.

No wonder your heart's quake hit the surface as tsunami, you disguising ,though temporarily , as moorkha,it's a well written fact that it's our Indian Culture to sideline the 'aam aadmi 'and stage the show.

Coming to the Delegate pass, they have 'delegated the 'screen 2' to all of you. Who cares about who has the 'paid ticket' and who has the 'free pass'?

Next, the organisers as well the VIPs forget the fact that without the' aam aadmi', they are nothing, if they exist it's because of you.There is no use of an artist if you have no wall to show-cause his artistic work !

I can very well understand the sensational ' kolaveri 'among all those who were with you at that time. Any sensible person who has made it' in advance ',' with advance booking' and reaching the venue not to miss would not take it lying for granted to be insulted and ignored in this way.

I appreciate the gherao and the efforts made by to grab the attention of the inefficient organisers ., I only hope it does not go futile atleast in future.

I would have done a few things then and there had I been there with you. It's a 'smart phone world, definitely someone would have had a smart phone, ( unless you have been barred from taking it inside) the best thing would have been to keep updating the status in Face Book Pune Film Festival page. It's an easy way of venting out your anger, simultaneously posting in News channels web page on the above title. Passing the information thro' friends to others would have spread the message like a forest fire!

Gandhi giri would have helped if all those who were in "Screen 2' had assembled and made a movement by saying that unless and until the organisers and press come , you would not budge an inch to air your grievances and disappointments .

Though it's not expected of everyone, I personally have stored the contact numbers of local DSP's, MLA's Corporators' and the local TV9's reporters' , child beggary, auto complaints, Railway complaints etc in my mobile for emergencies. The worst comes I would have taken the help of the reporter to insist she/ he visit the venue for first hand hot news.

Anyone could have recorded the whole scenario and posted in FB.

Only thing is atleast they arranged for an alternative instead of making you wait like nomads!

Wildlife Sanctuaries In India

2012-01-10T16:40:00.003+05:30

Wildlife Sanctuaries In India: India is gifted with the most varied geographical divisions, climatic variations and diverse landscapes, which serve best as natural habitats for a large variety of flora and fauna. Numerous National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries have been established all over India with the objective of securing the future of imperiled species of flora and fauna. This is one reason that people from around the world come here to experience the unique enchantment and enjoy being within a close proximity.

Gir National Park & Sanctuary, Sasangir Gujarat

Gir National Park & Sanctuary in Sasangir Gujarat is the last remaining home of Asiatic lion and is spread over an area of 11,412 sq km, which is a hilly tract of mixed dry deciduous and teak forests. In addition to Asiatic lions, it is one of the parks to spot leopards, chital, sambar, nilgai, chausingha, grey langur, hyena, painted sand grouse, peacocks and paradise flycatcherson an early morning drive. Kamleshwar dam reservoir is the habitat to heaviest mugger crocodile population in India. This park is considered to be the best area to drive through and see maximum wildlife including blackbucks, chinkara, wild boars, jackals and magnificent lions.

Bandipur Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka

Bandipur Wildlife Sanctuary is one of India's best known wildlife reserves that is located amidst the picturesque landscape of the meeting point of Deccan Plateau and Western Ghats. Situated in Chamarajanagar district in Karnataka, this sanctuary is gifted with a comfortable climate and varied geographical features. Wildlife in this National Park can be separated into various categories like mammals that include Asian elephant, Jungle Cat, Bonner Macaque, Wild Boar, Smooth-coated Otter, Indian Palm Squirrel, Common Palm Civet, Indian Palm Squirrel, Jungle Cat, Golden Jackal, Rusty-spotted Cat, Chital and Dhole- Asiatic Wild Dog to name a few. Then there are more than two hundred species of birds that people can enjoy watching.

Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand

Corbett Park situated in the foothills of Himalayas is a heaven for wildlife lovers. The park covers an area of 1318.54 square kilometres and includes 520 sq. km. of core area and 797.72 sq. km. of buffer area. And this core area of Corbett tiger reserve forms Corbett Park and buffer is reserved for the forests as well as the Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary. This is one of the most enchanting wildlife areas with tiger population reaching up to 160, making it the most important and the last mainstay of this endangered species in India. Moreover, the rich biodiversity in this park is a perfect place for bird enthusiasts, as well.

Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Kanha National Park came into being in 1955 and its lush sal, bamboo forests, grassy meadows and ravines provided an inspiration to Rudyard Kipling for writing his famous novel Jungle Book. Park's landmark achievement is the preservation of the rare hard ground Swamp Deer (Barasingha), saving it from near extinction. A popular attraction within this park is Bamni Dadar, commonly known as Sunset Point and then frequent sightings of Tigers roaming in the wild remain the most prevalent draw. Apart from all this, strict conservation programs for overall protection of Park's flora and fauna makes it one of the most well maintained National Parks in Asia.

Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur Rajasthan

Keoladeo National Park, formerly known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary in Bharatpur, Rajasthan is a famous avi fauna sanctuary that hosts thousands of birds, especially during winters. There are over 230 species of birds nesting in this sanctuary and it is also a major tourist centre, as numerous ornithologists arrive here in hibernal season. The Park was declared a protected sanctuary and a World Heritage Site in 1971. It is not just a man-made and man-managed wetland, but it also protects Bharatpur from frequent floods along with providing grazing grounds for village cattle.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala

Periyar Tiger Reserve is a perfect example of nature's bounty with enough of scenic charm, gorgeous bio diversity and most importantly, it provides veritable visitor satisfaction. Spread over an area of 777 sq .km, Periyar is one of the 27th tiger reserves in India that attract visitors all around the globe. The efficiently managed and ardently guarded reserve is a repository of rare, endemic and endangered species of flora and fauna. Additionally, it also forms the major watershed of two important rivers of Kerala, Pamba and Periyar.

Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Bandhavgarh National Park is one of most enchanting wild life sanctuaries in Indiasituated 197 km away north-east of Jabalpur. This park derived its name from an ancient fort and belongs to Vindhyan mountain ranges of central India. Not just this, it boasts to have good density of tiger population ranging to about 46 to 52 tigers. Forests of Bandhavgarh are actually the white tiger jungles of yesteryears. However, no white tigers have been reported since last 50 years and it is believed that less than a dozen have been seen in India in about a hundred years. Yet some of the white tigers were spotted here.

Kaziranga National Park, Assam

Kaziranga is one of the best National Parks to conserve One Horned Indian Rhinoceros and other wild lives in North East India. It is a significant natural habitat for in situ conservation of biological biodiversity of universal value. Criteria and values facilitated Kaziranga National Park to get inscribed in World Heritage Site List. The park area is spread over 429.93 Sq.Km. with an additional area of 429.40 Sq.Km. Moreover, it is situated in two districts of Assam, Nagaon and Golaghat, out of which 175 Sq.Km. of the total area falls within Nagaon. And, 135 Sq.Km. falls under Bagori Forest Range office and 40 Sq.Km. falls within Ghorakati Forest Range office.

Pench National Park, Maharashtra

Pench National Park and Tiger Reserve is spread over an area of 257 sq. km. in the lower southern reaches of Satpura hill ranges. The park was declared National by the Government of Maharashtra in 1975 and it also received the official status of Tiger Reserve of India in February 1999. It got its name from Pench River that meanders through the park, dividing it down the center. Apart from, beautiful hills, valleys and occasional precipitous slope, there is an important ecosystem supporting an abundance of flora and fauna, including a rich variety of aquatic life, as well.

Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan

Ranthambore National Park is one of the most renowned parks in India that is located in Sawai Madhopur district of south-eastern Rajasthan. Located 130 kilometres from Jaipur, it is famous as the hunting grounds of Maharajas of Jaipur. These days, it is considered as major wildlife tourist attraction spot and best destination for wildlife photographers.

Scientifically speaking.! Why we should visit temples ??

2012-01-08T15:34:00.000+05:30

There are thousands of temples all over India in different size, shape and locations but not all of them are considered to be built the Vedic way.

Generally, a temple should be located at a place where earth's magnetic wave path passes through densely. It can be in the outskirts of a town/village or city, or in middle of the dwelling place, or on a hilltop. The essence of visiting a temple is discussed here.

Now, these temples are located strategically at a place where the positive energy is abundantly available from the magnetic and electric wave distributions of north/south pole thrust . The main idol is placed in the core center of the temple, known as "Garbhagriha" or Moolasthanam .

In fact, the temple structure is built after the idol has been placed . This Moolasthanam is where earth’s magnetic waves are found to be maximum . We know that there are some copper plates, inscribed with Vedic scripts, buried beneath the Main Idol . What are they really? No, they are not God’s / priests’ flash cards when they forget the shlokas .

The copper plate absorbs earth’s magnetic waves and radiates it to the surroundings . Thus a person regularly visiting a temple and walking clockwise around the Main Idol receives the beamed magnetic waves and his body absorbs it. This is a very slow process and a regular visit will let him absorb more of this positive energy . Scientifically, it is the positive energy that we all require to have a healthy life .

Further, the Sanctum is closed on three sides . This increases the effect of all energies . The lamp that is lit radiates heat energy and also provides light inside the sanctum to the priests or poojaris performing the pooja . The ringing of the bells and the chanting of prayers takes a worshipper into trance, thus not letting his mind waver . When done in groups, this helps people forget personal problems for a while and relieve their stress . The fragrance from the flowers, the burning of camphor give out the chemical energy further aiding in a different good aura . The effect of all these energies is supplemented by the positive energy from the idol, the copper plates and utensils in the Moolasthanam /Garbagraham.

Theertham, the “holy” water used during the pooja to wash the idol is not plain water cleaning the dust off an idol . It is a concoction of Cardamom, Karpura (Benzoin), zaffron / saffron, Tulsi (Holy Basil), Clove, etc . . . Washing the idol is to charge the water with the magnetic radiations thus increasing its medicinal values . Three spoons of this holy water is distributed to devotees .

Again, this water is mainly a source of magneto-therapy . Besides, the clove essence protects one from tooth decay, the saffron & Tulsi leafs protects one from common cold and cough, cardamom and Pachha Karpuram (benzoin), act as mouth fresheners . It is proved that Theertham is a very good blood purifier, as it is highly energized .. Hence it is given as prasadam to the devotees.

This way, one can claim to remain healthy by regularly visiting the Temples. This is why our elders used to suggest us to offer prayers at the temple so that you will be cured of many ailments . They were not always superstitious. Yes, in a few cases they did go overboard when due to ignorance they hoped many serious diseases could be cured at temples by deities.

When people go to a temple for the Deepaaraadhana, and when the doors open up, the positive energy gushes out onto the persons who are there . The water that is sprinkled onto the assemblages passes on the energy to all .
This also explains why men are not allowed to wear shirts at a few temples and women are requested to wear more ornaments during temple visits . It is through these jewels (metal) that positive energy is absorbed by the women . Also, it is a practice to leave newly purchased jewels at an idol’s feet and then wear them with the idol’s blessings.

This act is now justified after reading this article . This act of “seeking divine blessings” before using any new article, like books or pens or automobiles may have stemmed from this through mere observation.

Energy lost in a day’s work is regained through a temple visit and one is refreshed slightly . The positive energy that is spread out in the entire temple and especially around where the main idol is placed, are simply absorbed by one's body and mind.

Our practices are NOT some hard & fast rules framed by 1 man and his followers or God’s words in somebody’s dreams.

All the rituals, all the practices are, in reality, well researched, studied and scientifically backed thesis which form the ways of nature to lead a good healthy life.

The scientific and research part of the practices are well camouflaged as “elder’s instructions” or “granny’s teaching’s” which should be obeyed as a mark of respect so as to once again, avoid stress to the mediocre brains.

Follow no one but learn from every one.

Vaikunta Ekadasi

2012-01-07T14:21:00.001+05:30

Vaikunta Ekadasi is an important festival dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the Tamil month Today is Vaikunta Ekadasi.Vishnu is the central and major deity of the trinity – Brahma (creator), Vishnu (preserver), Shiva (destroyer). Vishnu is the preserver or sustainer and for all practical purposes he is deemed to be omnipotent, omnipresent and omniscient.

The name Vishnu means the “pervader”. He is the inner center, the nucleus, the cohesive point through which everything exists. According to scriptures, he is known by innumerable names and the verses are famous as Vishnu Sahasranama. The two most common representations of Vishnu show him either sleeping over the waves of the ocean on the coils of the serpent-deity or Standing on waves with four hands – each hand holding one of his four chief attributes.
His lower right hand represents the revolving or creative tendency. This hand holds conch, symbol of the five elements (panchajanyam). When blown, it produces a sound that is associated with the primeval sound from which creation developed.

His upper right hand represents the cohesive tendency. This holds the discus (sudarshana chakra) or the wheel. This has six spokes and symbolizes six-petalled lotus. It represents the limitless controlling of all the six seasons and is the fearful weapon that severes the head if demons.
The upper left hand represents the tendency towards dispersion and liberation. This holds the lotus, symbol of the causal power of illusion from which the universe rises. This lotus is called Padma. It is the symbol of purity and represents the unfolding of creation.It is the truth from which emerged the rules of conduct and knowledge.
The lower left hand holds Gada ( Mace), the symbol of primeval knowledge . It represents the notion of individual existence. This is named Kaumodaki and is the elemental force from which all physical and mental powers are derived.
Vishnu’s preserving, restoring and protecting powers have been manifest on earth in a variety of forms called Avatars or incarnations which are ten in number.
In all pictures Vishnu is shown blue-skinned and seen in rich ornaments and regal garments. His consort Lakshmi ( Sri) is the goddess of wealth and fortune. His place of abode is known as Vaikunta and his vehicle is Garuda, a giant-sized eagle, which is often shown as a winged, human-shaped figure having a beak-like nose. He is the infinite ocean from which the world emerges. Hence his symbol is water (Nara) and he himself is called “Narayana”- the one who dwells upon the waters.

Thus, Lord Vishnu has
First His formless aspect as the supreme
His cosmic form as the Creator and Sustainer of the world
His third aspect is as a particular incarnation
and, fourthly, His form, as chosen by the devotee for worship.

Ekadasi means 'the eleventh' in Sanskrit and refers to the eleventh day of a fortnight belonging to a lunar month. The Padma Purana says:

"ekadasi vrata samam vrata nasti jagattrayeanicchaya'pi yat krtva gatir evam vidha'vayoh ekadasi vratam ye tu bhakti bhavena kurvate na jane kim bhavet tesam vasudeva anukampaya",

Which translates as:

In the three worlds, there is no kind of fasting which is even comparable to the Ekadasi fast. Even if one performs this fast without a proper attitude, he achieves the Supreme Abode. If one fasts on Ekadasi day, with full devotion, what happens to him by the mercy of the Supreme Lord, I cannot say (the merit he achieves cannot be described).

In Brahma-vaivarta Purana it is said that one who observes fasting on Ekadasi is freed from all kinds of reactions to sinful activities and advances in spiritual life. The basic principle is not just to fast, but to increase one's faith and love for Govinda, Krishna. The real reason of observing fast is to minimize the demands of the body and to engage our time in the service of the Lord by chanting His holy name etc. The best thing to do on Ekadasis is to remember the pastimes of the Lord and hear His holy name constantly.

The Brahma Vaivarta Purana states, "In this world there are only two concrete procedures for attaining liberation and atoning for one's sins. These two things are-- fasting on the Ekadasi days and chanting of the names of Supreme Lord Sri Hari."

Significance of Vaikunta Ekadasi:

Of all Ekadasis , The one connected with Dhanur Maasa Sukla Paksha Ekadasi is the most exalted and is known as Sri Vaikunta Ekadasi .There are number of reasons Associated with the special significance of this Ekadasi:

According to Padma Purana, the female energy of Lord Vishnu killed demon Muran in the form of a damsel named “Ekadashi” to protect Devas. This occurred during the month of Marghazhi (Margashira or Margashirsha) (mid December – mid January). Hence anyone who worships Lord Vishnu on this Ekadasi day would reach Vaikunth.

Hindu Puranas say that it was on this day that the churning of the ocean occurred and the Amrit (nectar of immortality) emerged out of the ocean and Bhagavan Dhanvanthri appeared thereafter with the Amrutha Kalasam (Nectar Pot) and Was distributed to the Gods. Hindus believe that those who die on this day are freed from the cycle of birth and death and that they would directly reach Vaikunta.

The most exalted of auspiciousness that happened on this day is the appearance of Maha Lakshmi.She appeared with the golden color.

Another importance of Vaikunta Ekadasi is that the Bhagavad Gita Upadesh of Lord Krishna to Arjuna during Kurukshetra War is said to have done on this day.

This day is also observed as “The Bhagavad Gita” Jayanthi. The Bhagavad Gita (in Sanskrit, "Song of the Lord") is the most famous poem in all of Hindu literature and part of the Mahabharata, the Indian epic masterpiece. The Gita consists of a dialogue between Lord Krishna and Prince Arjuna on the morning of a climactic battle. The main teachings of Bhagavad Gita are it teaches us the theory and values of path towards God. The Bhagavadgita teaches how to escape from this predicament, not by escaping from the burdens of the worldly life, or avoidance of responsibilities.

In his Gitopadesam to Arjuna, Sri Krishna describes the threefold path of austerity and says

"deva -dvija-guru-praajna-pujanam-shauchanam-arvajanam-
brahmacharyam-ahimsaa-cha- shariram-tapuchyate",

Which means one must worship the Supreme Lord, the Brahmans, the spiritual master, and superiors like the father and mother. Cleanliness, simplicity, celibacy and nonviolence are also austerities of the body (Bhagvad Geeta 17.14).

Truthful speech, which is not offensive to others and the regular recitation of scriptures, is austerity of speech (Bhagvad Geeta 17.15).

Serenity of thought, compassion, gravity, self-control, purity of purpose, are all austerity of the mind (Bhagvad Geeta 17.16).

This threefold path of austerity, practiced by men whose aim is not to benefit materially but to please the supreme, leads to a nature of goodness. Sri Krishna finally says that penances and austerities which are performed foolishly, by means of obstinate self-torture, or by destroying or injuring others, are the approach of the ignorant. It is also recommended that one must not perform austerities beyond his capabilities, lest the austerities become mechanical or offensive.

How to follow the vratham:

Fast has to begin on the previous day - Dasami-restrict yourself to one meal and milk & fruits at night. On Ekadasi, wake up early and after bath, and daily pujas etc, visit the temple to see Swarga Vaasal. Avoid rice & urad dhal that day in the lunch (if at all you cannot manage without eating anything, have milk, fruits, coconut water etc.

On this auspicious day let us pray Vishnu He who pervades every thing , for whom the sacrificial versus are uttered in the yagyas, the one who is the master and beyond the past, present and the future.The creator and destroyer of all existences in the universe. One who supports or sustains or governs the universe. Pure existence. The essence of all beings. He who originates and develops all Elements.

Yatra Yogeshwarah Krishno, Yatra Partho Dhanurdhara: Tatra Shreer Vijayo Bhooti:, Dhruvaa Neetir Matir Mama. "

Where there is Yogeshwar Krishna and Dhanurdhar Arjuna,
there exists prosperity, success and justice.

Kayena-Vaacha Mana-Sendhriyerva, Buddhyatma-Naavaa Prakrute-Swabhawat,

Karomi Yadyat Sakalam Parasmai, Naaraa-Yanayeti Samarpayami, Ohm Tat Sat

I offer all that I do, To Lord Narayana, Whatever I do with my body, Whatever

I do with my mind, Whatever I do with my brain, Whatever I do with my soul,

And whatever I do with natures help! Om that is the truth.

Om thatsath!

Sarvam shree-krishnar-panamastu

Banking on your eggs!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2012-01-03T17:01:00.003+05:30

BABIES... OH, NO NOT NOW!

It has become a trend not to have babies in the late twenties and early thirties but to have in their late thirties as career comes first to stabilise their life .Due to their biological clock ticking and the fear of having not so healthy kids at a later stage, forces the couple to opt for freezing their eggs. In some cases, due to unavoidable situations like undergoing radiation and chemotherapy also paves way for the same.

So what else than the best option available? Go for freezing when they are young and also avail the facility of freezing their embryos only to be stored for their future use.This facility has proven beneficial .The egg banking helps women to preserve fertility. If a woman does not want to use her eggs in her 20s or by the age of 35, If she decides not to use it for herself then she has the option to donate them or have them used for research.Egg freezing is ideal at an age when the woman’s eggs are most viable i.e. in her 20s or by the age of 35.

It's surprising to see many youngsters volunteer to donate their sperms and eggs and have no inhibitions in doing so. There are good clinics which makes the donors undergo a series of tests before collecting their eggs / sperms and pays them also.

Recently there was a dispute where the lady who also stored her eggs and her boyfriend's sperms misused the same and gave birth to a child and was demanding a share from the boyfriend's wealth, going publicly much to the embarrassment of the wife and her boyfriend!

Everything comes with a price?

If Babies Work in IT............

2011-12-24T16:09:00.000+05:30

Well we all know how hard it's to work in an It company. Most of the time we do not show that stress. But if babies where to work in the IT

On Bench

Fresher in IT...

Unwilling to take or hand over of Project

Client Call !!!

Understanding Client Requirements???

APPRAISAL...

CEO of the company!!

Developer Reaction to the Bug given by Tester

Team Leader

After first release

Developer on FRIDAYS!!!

on weekends...

Client reaction on First Release!

Reaction to the Bug given by TESTER...

WORKLOAD!!!!!!!! Ho MAN HUUSHHH!!!

A Smart Developer in the TEAM...

I have resigned, Plz relieve me!!!

Project Manager

DEVELOPER After Failed Project

on part time