The Blogger's Blog

Bannerghatta National Park in 2014... A must visit in Bangalore.

2014-09-02T23:56:00.000-07:00

Bannerghatta National Park, Bangalore-2014.

The Lion

It's always very enjoyable to visit Wild Life Sanctuaries, National Parks around India. At some point of time visiting Wildlife Sanctuaries was part of my job. Bannerghatta National Park in Southern part of India is a recent visit and I was so enamored again in the world of wildlife. The drive to Bannerghatta National Park is a smooth drive and not that long as it's a National Park almost in the viscinity of the Bangalore city or a bit outskirt of Bangalore, just a few 22 Kms away in the hills of Anekal range. The park consists prominently of a Biological reserve - The Bannerghatta Biological Park, a Zoo, Butterfly enclosure, Snake Park etc.

The day was started by taking tickets for the grand Safari, which was reasonably priced for adults at Rs 260 for the grand Safari (Tiger, Lion, Bar & Herbivore Safari). As being enthusiast Photographers, took cameras to shoot the wildlife in its Wilderness. For still camera, it charged Rs 25 (Indians). I came to realize that Boating was also there, which I missed out. Jeep Safaris were also there, but I chose the one with the Bus service and I have had expereinces of Jeep, Elephant, Bus altogether before. I found the Bus service by KSTDC tremendously satisfactory though I have to do some running to get the right angle for the Wildlife pictures. So, decided to take the Jeep safari on my next visit. Ultimately, travelling with loads of people was so nice instead of Jeep Safaris with few people for a change.

A Tiger resting in one of its waterholes.

Once inside the Bannerghatta National Park, got to see so many Wild Animals in a sequential order one after another, not like random, I used to always experience before, after so much trail. Here, for the simple fact, that there were separate enclosure for different animals - Elephants, Bears, Lions, White Tigers, Bengal Tigers besides Deer, Sambar etc.

Best part was getting to see the animals from such close encounters, distance and getting to take the pictures without disturbing the wildlife as much as we were safe in the caged vehicle.

It turned out to be a trip into wilderness with so much to offer to us. Couldn't ask for more. It was followed with a trip to the zoo, which equally left us contented. It was a Zoo visit after so many years. I felt animals kept in Zoo must be cramped as I have seen animal in their natural habitat or wilderness all the time. There were Snakes of different kinds as the Zoo was of reptiles, different birds, mammals etc. Seen the Brow Antlered Deer (Sangai), Black Bug, Mithun, Himalayan Black Bear, Ostrich, Crocodiles, Hippopotamus, Owls, love birds, etc

I will like to have a special mention here about the Brow-Antlered Deer/Sangai as I didn't expect and for the simple reasons, its inhabitant is at my state, Manipur. Well, when I used to go for School/college trips or Family New Year Trips, I never could sight any Deer so far, though we used to go many time, year after year at Keibul Lamjoa National Park only. So, It was so good to see the Sangai. And next was Black bug, which I have heard so much. So, got to see both as they were put adjacent.

Never thought again that a visit to a National Park and Zoo will be as good as I have experienced. Well, Bannerghatta National Park didn't disappoint me at all. Infact, it made my day.

Ri Kynjai - Serenity by the Lake, Shillong... Meghalaya

2013-08-07T08:13:00.000-07:00

Meghalaya Trip: Ri Kynjai

One of the best experiences being in Shillong, Meghalaya was the visit to Ryn Kynjai, Serenity by the Lakes. I really didn't have any idea of it though I was aware there were few good Hotels / Resorts in Meghalaya. We went there as our Family friend suggested and we decided and go out with a bang there. It was half an hour drive from hub of Shillong. The journey from main Shillong to Ryn Kynjai was as good and enjoyable as the short visit to the picturesque resort which was one of its kind with its unique local Khasi Architectural designs of the cottages and the surroundings of greenery and lines of pine trees. As this was like not perfect or enough, it was further enhanced with the view of the lake - The Umiam Lake.

By the time, we reached Ryn Kynjai, it was evening. After half an hour stroll, walk inside the resort. We decided that it will be good to have our high tea there. The view from the Restaurant was just great as the Umiam lake can be seen there and the interior of the restaurant was done up with crafts and handicrafts of North Eastern part of the Country, India. So, there were pine cones and weaves from the North Eastern part of the country.

The place was the right blend / marriage of the Traditional Khasi and the modern architectural designs. The cottages were done up aesthetically, completed with the world class amenities of satellite Television, Tea / coffee maker, Hot / Cold water, Room heater, Fireplace, Balcony sit out. Anyone wants more? I won't ask for more. The Restaurant was Multi-Cuisine with a Bar completed with the artefacts procured locally and naturally, with the local handicrafts used on the table setting. How can I forget? I had the best Assam tea there and with the backdrop as the Umiam Lake, sitting inside the restaurant was just good time rolled on among Besties with non ending chats, enjoying the place. We were sure - on another world or perhaps out of this world experience...

Summer days in Shillong... Cool breeze and beautiful blooms. Is that spring round the corner?

2013-07-31T03:36:00.002-07:00

* ***************SUMMER HOLS IN SHILLONG, MEGHALAYA************** *

Overlooking the Barapani from Ryn Kynzai, Outer Shillong.

I never thought Summer would be that lovely in Shillong. Its been so long... While I was looking forward to go home to enjoy the summer bliss... Things happened the other way round and turns of events took me to Shillong, Meghalaya.

It was a sudden decision. So, that year flight fares were so high and we took the tickets at triple times the normal flight fares. The lovely experience was worth it.

Shillong is connected from Delhi via Guwahati by direct flights as well as trains and again reconnected by roadways.

We took a flight to Guwahati and a road trip of 4 hours to Shillong. The road trip was one of the most enjoyable road-trips I have taken so far. Guwahati was hotter during that time to Shillong, but it was nice and pleasant.

Summer was amazing with the cool breeze and just couldn't believe that one day back I was in the heat wave ,or the so-called sweltering Delhi summer. Once a colleague in Dehradun said, "No one can escape the Delhi summer even inside a cave". That was funny and so true. (Food and Fodder for LOL, Indeed!) No one escapes. Its so hot with hovering 45C to 46 C most of the time. There is no respite of cooling it down after 10 pm like in some small towns of North India.

The cool pleasant weather of Shillong is best enjoyed visiting the Ward Lake, which at that time of summer was full of lilies in the water and lots of other flower blooms and greenery. The walk inside the Ward lake kept me reminded if the weather was for real. The breeze kept coming and I ascertained myself its for sure going to remain nice like that. There were so many locals visiting there and with Umbrellas. Boats rides were there but we decided to take a tour of the whole place by ourselves and inhale the beautiful, sweet smells of the flowers. Sitting inside the lake at that point of time was a blessing by catching up with old friends and sharing of good old days stories.

So, after that trip... Next after a few hours, we took a trip to Ryn Kynzai in outer Shillong.

That gave the true glimpses of Shillong, abode of clouds. The clouds were all there on the roads and we bought the famous kwa of Shillong. ( Betel leaves & Areca nuts) It was getting so cold and that was height of summer in any other part of North India. After half an hour drive or so we reached our destination. The sight was amazing with clouds coming in and the beauty of the place everywhere. I love the Maruti Taxis of Shillong which takes to the winding, hilly places of Shillong. Shillong reminded me of my visit to Switzerland somehow and everyone made a fool out of me that I was exagerating things and hilly places ought to look same anyways in someway. Though drivers were quite reliable and good there in Shillong. My cousin was very concerned and sent us with one of her known drivers from her house and we enjoyed more giving us the assurance as it will be friendly & safe journey/ long drive.

Thus, we started a journey to the many lovely places, roads amongst clouds of Shillong which takes us to the many beautiful, another experience of a new place.

Look East Policy

2013-07-30T08:41:00.002-07:00

India

’s Look East Policy

Look East Policy (LEP) was started by our then PM Narsimha Rao. The aim and effort was to have an extensive economic and strategic relation with the South Asian countries so that India does not lack behind its strong competitor China.

Along economic liberalization and moving away from cold war era, China and India have been strategic competitors for a long time in SE Asia ever since the Chinese invasion of Tibet and Sino Indian War of 1962. China has always had close commercial and military relations with Pakistan, Nepal and Bangladesh. Not only that, China became the closed partner and supporter of the military Junta of Burma ( also Union of Myanmar ) which had been ostracized from the international community following the violent suppression of pro-democratic activities in 1988. China's close relation with Pakistan and border disputes in Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh have threatened the improvement in bilateral relations.

India’s strategy had always focused on forging economic and commercial ties, increasing strategic and security cooperation and the emphasis of historic cultural and ideological links.

India has established strong commercial, cultural and military ties with Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam, Cambodia along with Burma.

In 2006, China and India opened the Nathula pass for cross border trade for the first time since the 1962 war. Trade between China and India increases by 50% every year. India’s support for the exiled Tibetan religious leader, the Dalai Lama also causes some friction in bilateral ties. Mekong – Ganga co-operation, BIMSTEC, forged extensive cooperation on environmental, economic development security and strategy affairs, permitting the growth of influence beyond South Asia and without the tense and obstructive presence of Pakistan and China that has stalled its effort in SAARC (South Asia Association for Regional Cooperation).

In the light of political scenario stated, LEP was launched with a view to establish closer economic integration with South East Asian states. India did not have any concrete strategy before LEP, to create an economic hub in its NE region, or explore the trade and commerce potential with its ASEAN neighbours. It was a significant shift in India’s policy prioritization. The LEP holds the potential to make NER, the commercial corridor of India, linking the ASEAN Nations enabling its people to harness economic wellbeing through Trade and Tourism. India’s LEP was to look to NE first.

India has an objective of becoming a superpower by 2020. We cannot neglect the business and potential which has to be taken up with South Asia nations. Their importance is immense. Besides, the policy will enhance the economic status or progress of NE states. India with its growing economy can comfortably do business with all emerging nations of SE Asia which are rather smaller in size like (Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, Thailand, Singapore ). If India neglects our Eastern neighbours in terms of relations, the overall influence of China will surely be overbearing and too dominant in Economic affairs of SE Asia.

*************** From MSK Class Speech/2010/B School) ********************

Ganesh Chaturthi in Maharashtra...

2012-09-17T02:32:00.001-07:00

My Ganesh Chaturthi Experience...

I love traveling, no doubt. I love being in festivals too. My love for traveling, festivities and faith took me all the way to Pune, Mumbai once during the time of Ganesh Chaturthi. Having relatives in almost every place, or so to say first cousins helped me in realising whenever I want to land somewhere sometimes. ( Perhaps on Earth. I'm on Earth....) Ganesh Chaturthi is more elaborately and widely celebrated at the southern part of the Country like Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Goa etc. Its also celebrated in Bhopal, MP in the central part of the country. Its also celebrated abroad by Indians in UK, United States, Canada, Mauritius, Singapore, Thailand, Burma, Fiji, Nepal etc.

Pune is the best place to be during the Ganesh Chaturthi. The festival is celebrated in the best way here. Believed to being celebrated as a public event in Pune since the times of Shivaji (1630-1680), the founder of the Maratha Empire.The preparations for the celebrations started out quite early, well before the actual events of the Ganesh chaturthi. I, often have heard my cousins, very excitedly telling me all about the roads lined up with Ganeshji idols, all almost the places of Pune. Even just hearing from them makes me so full of joy. It much be so Amazing.

It was five years back. When I visited, Pune's weather at that time of the year (it was September) was so cool, breezy with some rains. We loved the visits to Laxmi market for, to see the many Ganesh Chatturthi celebrations. Some with themes, story telling, great light works, though too crowded and excitement all around us. We ourselves were so excited. Laxmi bazaar in Pune is famous for the Maharastrian sarees. Amidst the festivities going on, many people were also shopping around like anything. So, we love to bring back some sarees for ourselves. Magarpatta city was in celebration, apart from many other places in Pune with local singers and some celebrities as well.

It was such a nice feeling to be enjoying the festivities. Ganesha is widely worshipped all over India, but more so in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Goa, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh etc. Ganesha is considered as the God of wisdom, prosperity and good fortune. It is traditionally considered invoked and blessed to take the Ganesha's blessings for the start of any new venture, or at the start of travel.

Ganesh Chaturthi/ Ganeshotsav ("festival of Ganesha") is observed in the Hindu calendar month of Bhaadrapada, starting on the shukla chaturthi (fourth day of the waxing moon period). Ganesha is believed to bestow his presence on earth for all his devotees during this festival. Shiva declared his son Ganesha as superior to all the Gods.

Ganesha is worshiped for 10 days. On the 11th day, visarjan is done by taking the idols through the streets in a procession accompanied with dancing, singing, and fanfare to be immersed in a river or the sea symbolizing a ritual of see-off of the Lord in his journey towards his abode in Kailash while taking away with him the misfortunes of his devotees. Modak is the special sweet during the Ganesh Chaturthi. Devotees made this special sweet during the festival for friends & family. I, once had some tasty modak in Bhopal when one of my Maharastrian friends brought some for all of our friends during the festival. Before that, I was not aware of the Modak ,or the elaborate celebration of Ganeshji with such opulence and fanfare. With that, some years later, I had Chocolate Modak at a family friends house in Mumbai which was offered by her lovely daughter.

Witnessing the Visarjan in Mumbai, standing by the Juhu seaside/ beach was an experience which was memorable, rewarding. It was lovely to see all the smiling faces all around. There was happiness all around with people dancing, doing Puja before the idols were immersed finally in the sea.

Roadtrip to Jaipur...

2012-08-29T10:53:00.001-07:00

A day trip to Jaipur, Rajasthan.

Jaipur's just a few hours away from Delhi. It's one of the favourite places Delhiites frequently, so lovingly visited on Weekends. Hardly four hours drive from Delhi and it has many places of interest. So, on a day's trip, we managed to visit few places in Jaipur which was very enjoyable. Indeed, a superb and wonderful trip all on a day.

Out of all the forts and monuments in the pink city- Jaipur, founded by Maharaja Jai Singh, visited Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort, City Palace, Albert Hall Museum, Chokhi Dhani besides some important shopping places like Johari Bazar (Jeweler's hub), Bapu Market (Mojri footwear) to name, which provided amazing shopping spree for any die hard shopholic.Well, can't missed out on that, apart from the visits to the Palaces, museum and the drive in and around Jaipur.

Jaipur markets are famous for its Bandhani, block printing, zari, gota, Meenakari, Gems, Kundan, Jewellery, Miniature paintings, Blue pottery etc.

Also, in the must visit List was Chokhi Dhani. Visited Chokhi Dhani, Five star village resort which brings alive the rural lifestyle, fun and frolic of Rajasthan on the outskirts of Jaipur. It provides tourists and locals with Camel, Elephant rides and other entertainment like Rajasthani dances and other games etc which keeps alive the Rajasthani tradition & culture. Its a tribute to the rich heritage and culture of Rajasthan to people who wants to know about India, precisely Rajasthan. The food- Thali ( fit for a King, so to say) there at Chokhi Dhani is another introduction to the vegetarian cuisine of Rajasthan.

Hawa Mahal, Palace of Wind, or Palace of the Breeze is located in the heart of Jaipur city which is also the business hub. It provides a striking view with its red colour as its built of red and Pink Sandstone.

It also forms a part of the City Palace and extends to the Zenana, women's chambers (the chambers of the harem).

City Palace is a magnificient palace, located in the heart of Jaipur City, very nearby to Hawal Mahal. It consisted of many buildings of historical significance like the Diwan- I - Khas ( Hall of Private Audience), Diwan- I- Aam, Maharani Palace, Bhaggi Khanna, Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal, Pitam Niwas Chowk etc. There was so much to explore in City Palace.

Visiting Amber fort, or Amer Fort/ Palace was a scintillating experience, surrounded on all sides by rugged hills. In Amber/ Amer Fort... It was stunning and very royal. A visit to Jaipur, Rajathan remained very fulfilling and complete with the visit to Amber/ Amer fort. Quite a huge place in itself to explore and so spectacular. So much of an enchanting view to the visitor that can satiate a Traveller's quest for something extravagant, remarkable and marvelous.

The Golden Temple, Amritsar

2012-06-25T21:51:00.018-07:00

Known to be the sacred most place for Sikhs and most popular destination among Non- Residential Indians(NRI) in the whole of India, Golden temple (Harmandir Sahib- The abode of God) is a special and spiritual place especially for the sikhs. Everyone in India consider it a holy place and a must visit to Golden Temple for the Well- being and blessings regardless of their religion, colour, creed, or sex.

Considered holy by Sikhs, the most holy text of Sikhism, the Guru Granth Sahib, is always present inside the Golden Temple. The Gurudwar is a place of worship for men and women from all walks of life and all religions. The Gurudwar accepts everyone and there's a common saying all around Amritsar from almost everyone that nobody goes hungry in the Land of Golden Temple, Amritsar. Hardly any beggars in and around the Temple, or no beggars at all as none was noticed. It's a good place of worship for all.

People were required to leave the shoes and wear a head covering along with washing one's feet before entering the Gurudwar's premises. Its maintained for the purity of the Sacred place.

Hari Mandir (Divine Temple) or Darbar Sahib (Court of the Lord), which is the beautiful golden structure at the center of a large body of water is the the most famous and sacred part of the Golden Temple complex where Devotees pay their respects by touching with their foreheads on the temple floor and walls.

The water that surrounds the Hari Mandir is a sacred pool known as the Amrit Sarovar (Pool of Nectar). The temple is reached by following the Parikrama, which circumscribes the sacred pool in a clockwise direction. Connecting the pathway with the Hari Mandir is a marble causeway called the Guru's Bridge, which symbolizes the journey of the soul after death. Darshani Deorhi,the gateway to the bridge has magnificent silver doors.

The temple's surrounded all around by Sarover or water tank. After coming out of the Gurudwar, Holy water is taken by devotees followed by Prasad.

The people who visited the Gurudwar can also have Langar at the Community Kitchen inside the premise. Food is continously served for the devotees all round the clock. It was a very humble experience to have the Guru-Ka-Langar where devotees made an effort to help run the community kitchen in all possible way. There are Guest rooms/ Quarters to stay inside the Premises.

Amritsar's a Splendid Weekend Getaway from Delhi and nearby places.

There's Shabtabdi train to Amritsar and I find that a very good way to go to Amritsar. Friends also recommended and suggested for a enjoyable roadway trip when I visit next. Until next time... Will keep alive the Goodtime spent in Amritsar.

Baha'i ( House of Worship)/ Lotus Temple

2011-08-25T05:56:00.016-07:00

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Delhi has so many places of worship and attractions. Lotus temple can be counted as one. With the metro line passing nearby, anyone can see the Lotus temple while traveling on the Delhi Metro. Traveling to Lotus temple has been quite easier for Tourists as well as Delhites like never before.

Lotus temple attracts lots of foreign tourists as much as Local people. Its a much visit for anyone who's visiting Delhi for the first time.

Bahá'í House of Worship, popularly known as Lotus temple so named because it looked like a flower specifically that of a white Lotus is a piece of aesthetic artwork or an architectural marvel.

Once considered to be most visited even compared to the Eiffel Tower and Taj Mahal, even today Lotus Temple is visited by almost all the tourists who visited Delhi.

The best part of the place of worship is it let everyone in. Silence is maintained inside the structure where everyone can pray without making any noise or disturbances. It's very strictly made to maintain by its volunteers so that everyone can have a peaceful prayer time. People of all religion can worship here.

Though, I used to stay very close to these temple. I never could visit Baha'i or Lotus temple until sometime back recently. I only have visited many, many years back a few times when I first started staying in Delhi and again few years after that. So, when I shifted my accomodation nearby to these places. I was quite thrilled I would get a frequent chance to visit, which never ever happened even once except for few visits at Isckon temple. But, I kept on thinking of visiting Lotus temple quite often. It was visible from the terrace top of the building I used to stay. Watching from the terrace was that all I managed.

With time, I forgot that the Lotus temple existed in Delhi. I shifted to another place in Delhi, have been out of town for some years. And I got the chance, unplanned when everything about it was erased from my mind. Once made the effort, when parents visited us to visit, but it was a monday and so found it closed.

A promise perhaps, so to say, I made to myself that I will visit it with my cousins... as siblings have started telling me that will be a superb idea... I enjoyed thoroughly my visit with my cousin and Nephew when I did it at their recent visit to Delhi. All thanks to Delhi Metro, which saves me from driving all the way there of some 80 Kms (to and fro)... Loved and cherished d moments, laughter and contentment :) Truly Divine :)

DIVINE CONNECTION :):)

Mind Rolling Monastery

2011-07-29T08:41:00.000-07:00

I fondly remember my visit to Mind Rolling Monastery. I was in Dehradun and was glad I got to visit the famous Monastery, which was in Clement Town. The roads outside and nearby the Monastery was rough and untidy, to be precise. Inside the premise, it was Mind rolling, signified its namesake, for it was quite, serene and lovely. Just "Bliss" to summarise and cut short.

My friend who has been staying at Dehradun for sometime because of her work told me that the Dumplings and chopsueys were so good and worth a try inside the Monastery.She loved visiting the place. The many shops have souvenirs and Tibeten artefacts, lovely decorative pieces and bangles.(One of my beautiful German colleague was so impressed about the bangle, when she saw me wearing it, in one of our jungle trips together . She kept on harping and sking where I have got it from. She liked it so much and told me that she will ask, one of her students to get it from Dehradun).

Inside the Monastery, there were so many monks doing about their daily rituals and chores. It was so beautiful and well maintained. Indeed,everything about the Mind Roling was clean, clear and peaceful.

In nearby places to the Monastery, I get to see a large Tibetan settlement. It was so nice to get a glimpse of the Stupa, i.e World's Largest Stupa, of the re-established Mindrolling Monastery from Tibet. I came to know it was inaugurated on 28th October 2002 and was surrounded by a 2-acre (8,100 m2) garden. Walking inside the monastery was relaxing. The food was good, though they only serve vegetarian tibetan cuisine. From the Monastery, I also got to see the tree canopies of the Rajaji National Park as they shared the borders with the Monastery.

There was also a high statue of Buddha, 103 feet (31 m)which was dedicated to the Dalai Lama. Inside the monastery, I felt as if I was not in India, but in some place secluded from this world. ( This was testified as all my friends kept on asking me where the location was, when they saw the stupa after I uploaded the pics in one of the social networking sites). And then to thier surprise, it was in India.

The Monastery also have a very prestigious college, Graphic Era Institute of Technology. Founded by Mr. Ghanshala. Many tourists thronged in there as well as Localites as it provided a sanctum to everyone.

I thanked my friend, in my heart of heart for taking me there. We have had a lovely time which remained so good even today, time and again...

Lodi Gardens...

2011-07-23T22:44:00.000-07:00

It's always good to visit Lodi Gardens... be it spring, summer,or winter. It never fails to charm in any season of the year. In a hot place like Delhi, summer can be a respite and cool place in Lodi gardens.

In spring, flowers bloom everywhere inside the garden.

There are a few monuments, tombs which enhance the beauty and charm of the Garden manifold.

It's a picnic spot for people all throughout the year and a jogger's park for some people in all the seasons.

A South Indian Weekend Gateway… A trip to Mysore

2011-07-17T06:20:00.000-07:00

How was Mysore? It was quieter to Bangalore as I started off from Bangalore. Life was going at a lazy, slow pace there. It was a beautiful city. So, the exciting thing about Mysore…

The facts are- it's hardly 3 hours from Majestic Bus stop, Bangalore. Going by the Volvo was easy and comfortable. Kept on watching a movie and the sights/ scenery and it reached us on no time. Mysore can be a good weekend getaway from Bangalore. We had little time.We were looking forward to short hols too. Mysore was the right destination: Cultural capital, City of Palaces of Karnataka.

After reaching Mysore, we hired a Taxi for the whole trip to Mysore Town. That includes Chamundi hills, Zoo (which we skipped, as seen Animals/ Birds all the time in its natural habitats: Sanctuaries, Wild life parks), Mysore palace, and Brindavan Gardens. The driver was a very sweet, friendly old guy.

Visit to Chamundi temple can be an enriching experience. It's nestled high up on the Chamundi hills. It was a steep drive and we really liked it. The temple, named after Chamundeshwari or Durga, the fierce form of Shakti, a tutelary deity held in reverence for centuries by Mysore Maharajas. The temple has a seven story tall 'Gopura' decorated with intricate carvings. The deity of the goddess is said to be made of gold and the temple doors of silver. As a friend had recommended, Chamundi temple was the first place we visited upon reaching Mysore. It has always been so good to visit temples while on holidays. Really, Pilgrim holidays have been so fulfilling. It was an amazing experience.

As it was some hours drive from Bangalore. After visiting Chamundi Temple, we were damn hungry, not at all tired, rather excited and delighted. So, after much introspection and enquiries from friends who have stayed in Mysore. We came to know of few places, about good popular restaurants in Mysore and shopping places for Mysore sarees. RRR was a good option on restaurants as it was at close proximity from the Mysore Palace, which was our next destination. Getting sarees from State Kaveri Emporium was right. The food at RRR was very good, tasty Andhra food. Everything about it was gratifying, though didn't like the rush part. It was so crowded for its good food and popularity. And the price was very affordable for everyone (rich/poor, I guess: Dirt cheap if you happen to be dining in good restaurants in big cities). Mysore palace was our next destination on the day's Agenda. Horses run transport system/ drive on carriage was another option to ply to nearby places from there.

Mysore Palace, the official residence of the Wodeyars - the erstwhile royal family of Mysore, was a beautiful palace with so many rooms which also houses two durbar halls (ceremonial meeting hall of the royal court). The view from the Durbar hall to the gates was a very pleasing view which opens to the outside world. It really catapulted me to have the view to the outside gates from the Palace.

Mysore palace was a tourist site, not only for Indians as I came across many foreign tourists as well. I was all the more thrilled and surprised when I learnt that it was one of the most famous tourist attractions in India after Taj Mahal with more than 2.7 million visitors.

Every autumn, the Palace is the venue for the famous Mysore Dasara festival, which is the most extravagant festival of Mysore. This celebration commemorates the victory of the great Goddess Durga, (Chamundeshwari) after she slew the demon, Mahishasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil according to Hindu mythology. During Dasara, news about the festivities to be held at Mysore are flashed everyday. In my short sojourn in Bangalore, it was quite hectic and only could manage to have those glimpses of festivals and catch up from many newspapers. It was also learning about new cultures that of south India.

Inside the large palace, got to see ornately gilded columns, stained glass ceilings, decorative steel grills, and chandeliers with fine floral motifs, mirrored in the pietra dura mosaic floor embellished with semi-precious stones. It was a grand palace with art works in many rooms. I also tried listening to the music which came from a hollow pillar, after tapping it as some of the local tourists asked me to try out. My sis was quite glad and so was I. There were multi-hued stained glass ceiling with peacock motifs arranged in geometrical patterns. Also, the floor of the Mantapa had the peacock theme with a peacock mosaic, designed with tiles from England.

Next trip was Brindavan Gardens. To enter Brindavan gardens, we were suppose to take tickets. The queue was a long one and there were all kinds of people, it was quite crowded. Brindavan gardens doesn’t strike me much though I loved and enjoyed the boat rides. There were so many fountains, that was relaxing and refreshing and flower blooms were not much at that time when we visited. I was expecting quite so much, from Brindavan Gardens as I have seen it to be very beautiful as a kid from cousins Family hols photo collection from their whole south India tours and travels.

Though, I can’t deny I like the designs and large terrace gardens arrangements. There was so much street food for visitors to try out, which was encouraging. While still in Brindavan gardens, it was becoming all dark and night was setting in.

We bid Adios to Mysore with fond memories of sights, fun, smiles, lovely people and beauty of the places visited and that of a short getaway. It was very fulfilling to visit a temple, a palace of grandeur and a beautiful garden with a pleasant boat ride not excluding the ride passing through many beautiful, spectacular sights of Mysore city. Our Taxi guy drove us back to the Volvo stand and guided us. It was a moment of truth that, it ended with a sweet note and a happy smile that it was a lovely day. Goodtimes never failed to fascinate us, my sis ( who came all the way from Delhi (to attend a fren’s South Indian Wedding for 2/ 3 days) and me who ended up meeting her in Bangalore decided to tour Mysore for a day…

Till then, Mysore rocks in its quiet, sweet way, away from the crowded, maddening, hustle and bustle of big city metros.

Earth Hour 2009.

2009-02-28T08:33:00.000-08:00

Everyone can make a difference and a big one at that, for Climate change. It can be done so easily by switching off lights for just one hour on Saturday, March 28, 2009 at 8: 30 pm .

Just a Campaign which started in 2007 in Sydney, Australia with 2.2 million homes / business turning lights off for one hour. It will be reaching out to more than one billion people in 1000 cities,including India( by switching off lights for just one hour on Saturday March 28, 2009), supporting climate change .538 cities in 75 countries, double the no. of countries that participated in 2008, are committed. An earnest effort to take action on global warming. Aims to reach one billion people, more than 1000 cities.

With up to 50 million people across 35 countries participating only a year later from the start of the campaign in 2007(Global landmark like the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Rome’s Colosseum and the Coca Cola billboard in Times Square, all stood in darkness, showing symbols). Earth Hour is truly a global sustainability movement of hope for a global cause that encompassed Territories and boundaries.

Superstar Aamir khan is the face of the Campaign in India.

Earth Hour 2009, turn off your lights at 8.30pm Saturday 28 March for a better Sustainable Climate and future.

Take the lead on climate change
See the World in a whole new light
Join Earth Hour
8:30 pm to 9:30 pm on 28th March 2009
www.earthhour.in

By the Ganges , Haridwar / Rishikesh 1

2008-11-23T07:28:00.000-08:00

My Haridwar, Rishikesh trip in Uttarakhand recently was not my first trip there, but I was the more elated. I know that Uttarakhand is a lovely, truly holy place, a picturisque landscape, a paradise for the nature lovers (not excluding Wildlife lovers) a feast and a marvel for the eyes. I have visited there before some three/ four years back and it was an awesome experience. Family Holidays have always been terrific and I count the trip to Haridwar, Rishikesh enchanting enough to remind always my family that we should go back anytime whenever we have the time in the coming future. Staying at Mohyal Ashram was a so nice experience. Loved the simple food we have there and the hospitality was unforgetable for sure, no doubts.

My trip few days back there was remarkable because I was on a business trip. I was too glad to visit the holy place,as please as a punch! We drove down to Haridwar/ Rishikesh early in the morning inorder to escape Traffic hurdles, stopped by Grand Cheetal where we had Great food. The garden there was amazing. It had good ambience. So,clicked some pics eventhough it was damn cold and chilly n frosty to be accurate.

By the Ganges 2

2008-11-23T07:25:00.000-08:00

Continued from "By the Ganges, Haridwar /Rishikesh".

After a leisurely Breakfast. We headed to Haridwar. Reaching Haridwar, we were so lovingly and warmly welcome. Official work followed, but then in our heart of heart, we,three of us who were there for the business trip was looking forward to some adventure. So, hoping to accomplish and finish work perfectly at the right time was our motto of the trip. The drive was pretty smooth one except for occassional places. The scenic beauty entralled us no end. I 've to confide here my Mexican colleague was sleeping and perhaps was dreaming a sweet dream on the way. She already told me, she just came back from a disc as she had to bid some friends from Israel Goodbye.I guess, that was important and crucial too. She second it too.

When we were about to reach Haridwar, she told me curtly, she dreamt a dream. I wasn't surprised, I didn't ask her what was the dream about. Well, I was n't in my Dreamland, but among villages of India where anyone can feel the utmost realistic life and enjoy in the greenery and the cool landscape.Official work was swallowing up all the time. Finally,in the pretext of filling up of the Holy Ganges water, we were strolling for a few minutes by the side of Ganges. Later, We got time to sit silently and clicked picture with evening twilight as the background.

I always have the habit of letting people listen to the roaring of the water. I tried that by the Ganges in this trip. Some years back, I tried out that back by the Beas in Himachal Pradesh, before the Airtel Ad. came out with that idea.

I told our Driver to record the roaring of the Ganges water, he had records of so many things like the original chirping of birds n sounds of animals from their natural habitat and he 's always the first one to point/ sort out wild animals in the many Jungle Trips with all the right names.

He can be counted among good ornithologists as well, because of his knowledge about birds. I told him to abreast me of the birds name in the tour inside Rajaji National Park which we did tour.

By the Ganges 3

2008-11-23T07:24:00.003-08:00

Continued from "By the Ganges, Haridwar/Rishikesh"

I 've visited and seen Lakshman Jhula, Ram Jhula and many religious Hindu temples nearby those areas in Rishikesh with family as we were supposed to remain grounded ,or Earthly with those Pilgrim cum fun holidays. I was quite believing the mexican to have the same pleasant time like I have had before there, but official work was not letting us that. So, Har- ki - Pauri, that was where we visited on the first night.

The Aarti has just been over with the spectacle of sound and colour. We were just at the right time when, after the ceremony, pilgrims float diyas (floral floats with lamps) and incense on the river, commemorating their deceased ancestors. We hurriedly went amidst the crowds to do that.

Har Ki Pauri is believed to be the exit point of the Ganges from the mountains and entry into the plains. Also known as Brahm Kund, this ghat was built by King Vikramaditya in memory of his brother Brithari who often meditated on the banks of river Ganga. History records an imprint of Lord Vishnu’s foot on one of the stones present on the ghat, which is indicative of the name. An evening ritual (Aarti) performed by the priests on the banks of river Ganga is a highly enchanting and divine experience.

Lamps are seen floating on the river, immersed after the ritual. A splendid aura of lights and chants fills the atmosphere in the evenings.What we knew at that moment was only that it's auspicious.Later, realised that thousands of people from all round the world do make a point to attend this prayer and pay respect to their deceased anscestors on their visit to Haridwar. We were blessed to do that even without the knowledge (God Willing!). The night followed with some cool ,breezy hours by the water. Just walking by the Ganges and being ourselves unguarded was thrilling,Welcoming. I bet, the Gods will also ask for that. So, The night went by lovingly.

The only compliant , I got from my Mexican fren was the night was lovely , but why was it starless always in India at night unlike in her hometown, Mexico . I corrected her , we have starlit nights in Imphal , Manipur and shared a lovely starlit night experience of Kulu , HP and there were many places with stars every nightin India (But , I haven't seen much stars in all my years in Delhi. ). I shared one experience with her, a night of thousand stars twinking nonendlessly. That was with one of my friends and we kept on gazing the stars ,muttering and gazing up perpetually , we never had this , ever in Delhi all these years . It was truly spectacular and filmy because it was so perfect for any one to believe and besides ,we had reached there through a rope way(True , to the name , being pulled by people from the other end , just like in Adventure books and Jungles )from the other end which had Apple , Peach orchards and lovely ,cute lodges and a hillock behind.We ended that day with that sweet note .

By the Ganges 4

2008-11-23T07:20:00.001-08:00

Continued from "By the Ganges ,Haridwar/Rishikesh"

Morning was all ours after a hearty breakfast in Ganga azure, Big Ben Haridwar. As we have had some time, I told to drive till Sati Kunj. The Chandi devi, Mansa Devi and the rope way followed with buying prasads/ flowers for the deities prayers and having food here and there like chana Masala, typical of Haridwar and fruits and gulping dowmn cold drinks to quench the thrist with all the excitement. Rope-way was good. It was the cheapest among all places in India as was seen written in one of the boards. After completing our works (we have not forgotten our official tasks ) ,we sincerely felt truly blessed when we have the previlege and visited Rishikesh, the Triveni,Lakshman Jhula, Ram Jhula even though it was dark to understand anything( as it was late at night).The breezy weather was so good and so, chill out.

Unknowingly and surprisingly lucky, I happened to visit all the 'Panch Tirth' (Five Pilgrimages)in Hindu traditions within Haridwar, which were Gangadwara (Har-ki-pauri), Kushwart (Ghat), Kankhal, Bilwa Teerth (Mansa Devi) and Neel Parvat (Chandi Devi. I Love visiting the Sati kunj, everytime I visited Haridwar, Rishikesh. Even the Daksh Mahadev temple was worth visiting.

By the Ganges 5

2008-11-14T07:41:00.000-08:00

Continued from "By the Ganges, Haridwar/ Rishikesh "

Third day was a new day, as we geared to head back to Delhi, after a meaningful, soul stirring visit to the Ganges banks for a holy dip.

People were bathing in the early twilight. It was considered and believed a dip in the Ganges cleansed the humanly bodies from worldly sins. When I told this to my Mexican fren, she dipped her head in the water. Ultimately, it was NIRVANA time for all of us as we three all have a hearty laugh. It was quite funny and at the same time so sweet.

The cute part of the whole trip was she was visiting the interiors of Daksh Mahadev Temple for a prayer the first day we visited the place,remembering she kept on telling me she hardly visited churches (We were thrilled.)and She bought Bhajan songs for her Mexican friends back home in Mexico was quite amusing and sweet gesture too.

The trip was good for all of us with some shopping, picking stuffs just as souvenir.

On our way back,we have a look at the Patanjali, Ramdev Centre and the sugarcane field where we got some sugarcane and Jaggery (Gur)just for the fun sake.

The workers were asking us to click the live making of Jaggery and they have a dekko(look) of it too in the Digicam.

We did that to our and their heart's content,Willingness.

Haridwar was simply a Gateway to God:tranquil and majestic.

The Tiger Trail

2007-12-21T08:58:00.000-08:00

It was in Ranthambore National Park that I saw a Tiger for the first time in the wild. Many held their veiws and said I was indeed lucky to see the Tiger. I have seen Tigers many times before, White Tigers and many other Tigers,all in the zoos. I saw the White Tiger for the first time at Vand Vihar in Bhopal, M.P.Its been so many years by now. Ranthambore National Park is abundant with wild life. We started our trail early in the morning to get the 100% Gaurantee of meeting the Tiger. When, I saw it face to face, it was very majestic. Really, reminds me of the poem "Tiger" by William Blake (Tiger Tiger. burning bright,In the forests of the night;What immortal hand or eye. Could frame thy fearful symmetry?.It was a long trail about an hour or two going from one place to another trying to trace its path. There were so many water holes where they frequently visit. The Tiger was not afraid or wary of the human crowd. It stare at us and made its way towards the hills upwards. Apart from Tigers, Rathambore abounds with Wildlife like Nilgai, Chinkara, Snakes, crocodiles, many monkeys. We halted for sometime during the trail as we happen to see some pugmarks. It turned out to be that of a Bear after much speculations. Everyplace was full of animals,the forests being decidous, nothing could do much to mar the view of the Wildlife. The Drive was both rough and tough, as it has rained some days back. So, the topography of the forests was fresh. There's a Fortress inside the park and many lakes where there were so many marsh crocodiles. We stopped at Jogi Mahal which also served as the Resting place after a hard day tracking the Tiger. Padam Lake also is full of Crocodlies and Peafowls can be seen everywhere near the famous ancient Banyan tree near Jogi Mahal. Indeed, it was good to make a trip to Ranthambore and it was worth it.

The International Polar Year Celebration.(March 2007-March 2009)

2007-12-08T07:38:00.000-08:00

The International Polar Year focused on the Arctic and the Antarctic putting the importance of polar regions and its influence on our day to day lives.

The polar regions face significant challenges caused by social and environmental changes as direct impact of human activities. It is essential to assimilate the scientific finding & reduce anthropogenic pressures, create awareness on receding ice and impacts on people & culture.

WWF-India and National Council for Antarctica and Ocean Research (NCAOR) Goa celebrated it. A number of guest lectures and student’s activities were organised across the country round the year to generate awareness and stimulate a sense of urgency, discovery and our role to reduce the impacts of climate change and save the poles.
An exhibition of the models, posters, slogans, projects submitted by various schools across the country was displayed in in WWF- Delhi.

Streax..Savvy Cover Girl Contest

2007-12-02T02:04:00.000-08:00

Pictures from the recently held Savvy Cover Girl Contest at the Grand , vasant Kunj, New Delhi. Miss Sanaya Tuli emerged as The Coveted Winner amongst much Fanfare and Glamour Packed Contest.

Seashells and products.

2007-12-02T01:53:00.000-08:00

This are some of the stalls which were selling Sea Shell

and its many Products in many different beaches in Goa.

WWF-Worldwide Fund For Nature

2007-12-02T01:44:00.000-08:00

This is the WWF-office(Secretariat), Delhi. I work here. This picture depicts my office with the mosaic picture of the Tiger pasted on the office building, an effort to save the Indian Tiger from extinction.

website:www.wwfindia.org

A Book Release..5thNov.07

2007-12-02T01:19:00.000-08:00

A Book Release : Sustainability Reporting.

The Business Case 2007.

Mr . Arun Shourie, M.P Rajya Sabha was the Chief Guest at the Function.

Held on 5th Nov.2007. I attended it at Mantosh Sondhi Centre, CII Central Office, Lodi Road, New Delhi .

Dona Poula Beach

2007-11-28T06:52:00.000-08:00

Goa, the name itself is very much synonymous with Beaches.There are so many beaches in Goa. I visited some of them.Just the day after I reached Goa,we headed to Dona Poula from Panjim (Panaji, Taxis/Cabs are easy to get from there and quite reasonable for tourists as well.Before, we head out for the beaches, we got a brief idea of the Panjim market and nearby places as we walk down the nearby places and take some pictures as well. We visited a lifestyle store, check out on places where we can get the very famous Goan Fenni, wines, Cashew etc. Dona Poula is the first beach we visited after we reached Goa, as it was nearby about 7 Km from Panjim. Dona Poula is distinctive by itself as it is not only the meeting point of two famous rivers of Goa in Arabian Sea but it had its mystical significance with the story and myths of Dona Poula where the place has been named so. The beach is famous as shooting locales for many Films (Ek duje keliye was picturised over here)and for its mysterious past. The story of Dona Poula attracts many tourists here with its romantic mysticism as it is believed that the spirit of Dona Paula de Menzes, daughter of a viceroy (in colonial India) haunts the beach It is said that she threw herself off the cliff when she was refused permission to marry a local fisherman, Gaspar Dias. Locals say that she is sometimes seen emerging from the waves on a moon lit night. One can as well try out many of the watersports such as diving, skiing, surfing, sailing, etc here at the Dona Paula beach.Floating, light swimming and sun bathing on the shores are also done by some people. We tried biking the water scooters. It was fun and everyone has a ball of a time doing that. Many small shacks , restuarants, small shops were there which sold shells, colourful dresses, hats (which was good). Of all, the sweet corns (Typical of Maharashtra) and Indian snacks and savouries (Bhel puri, Gol kapas)were total and full Thumbs Up.We have to break our promise of not eating as we did a heavy lunch. We were reminding,as where will we get such a right time to catch up eating all these stuffs, better to eat typical of the place was all we do. We ended up eating everything from cakes, wafers, Murukus, sweets and what not. Tea rounds were so good at that time just observing the scenic beauty from atop. By the time , one of our friend joined us,it was almost like the sun was about to set. So, sharing with her again a cup of tea,my cousin and I did the rounds of watching the people fishing there as they catch many small fishes while my sister was having a good time with the friend who has just arrived. Crabs can also be seen. No doubt, Dona Poula is a popular tourists spot with all the cool breeze, palm trees and everything that can enthrall any romantic and adventurous person.

My Holidays in Goa (September 2007)

2007-11-26T03:53:00.000-08:00

My Goa trip was not an awaited holiday. But it was made so suddenly and Goa was the destined place for sure. It was perfectly the right time and so research began about the places, which will be worth visiting and seeing. Most significantly of all, the cuisines- pure and typical Goan was not to be miss out. So, was raving up and seeing forward to the trip. It was only 4hrs, or so by Go air and well halted for an hour at Mumbai where many people joined us for their home town, or a visit to the Sand and Sun Paradise. We were too happy. It was like when the plane starts moving towards Goa,leaving the Mumbai shores as can be seen from the plane's window, it began in itself with the Goan journey-jovial and full of Cheers.It was a land for everyone. So, When the plane hit Dambolim Airport, my younger sister sitting just next to me has already started describing about how splendid and beautiful Goa is and keep telling me to have a Bird's eye view and love it. She has been to Goa before. For me it was my maiden visit. Ultimately, and obviously loving all of the journey. I can see whole of waters everywhere and greenery. It reminded me of my native place, Manipur as it is full of greenery. It was a very pleasant sight. The airport was not a big one in Goa with loads of Taxis to hire. On our way to our Residency, we listened to Radio Mirchi. Marathi and Konkani were used, learned a word or two from the Programmes going on. It was Aamchi Mumbai Style but very different from the Dilliwallas. Goans smile a lot from the heart. We also did exactly that. My sister, a friend and I were all engrossed in the journey which passes through coconut lined roads, beautiful Architectural designed houses, churches, rivers and soaking in the warm sun and the cool waters of the Arabian Sea. Our lovely journey of fun has already started and proud to say we, all ladies made it to Goa Trip. But we were also awaiting for the arrival of a cousin from Pune. She arrived a day later and thus began our sojourn and Adventure.