Freedom matters

Sunset

2011-09-25T15:57:00.000+05:30

"Clouds come floating into my life,

No longer to carry rain or usher storm,

But to add color to my sunset sky."

-- Tagore

Vishu or Onam - which is Kerala's new year?

2011-04-16T07:23:00.000+05:30

From a few Wikipedia pages -

Onam falls during the first month of the Malayalam calendar which is Chingam. Vishu falls in the month of Medam.

Vishu is not a New Year as per the Malayalam Calender, but the day is considered as the first day of Zodiac Calendar.

Vishu is similar to the New Year festivals observed elsewhere in India like Baisakhi (Punjab), Bihu (Assam), Naba Barsha (Bengal), Bisu Parba (Tulu Nadu region in Karnataka), (Vishuva Sankranti) in Orissa Puthandu (Tamil Nadu) and Ugadi in(Andhra Pradesh) .

Some disturbing thoughts while we Bleed Blue.

2011-04-01T10:21:00.001+05:30

We crushed Pakistan and reached the WC final. Most probably will win the WC tomorrow. But these facts keep disturbing me -

1. Unbelievable number of dropped catches of Sachin (most of them straight forward).

2. Pak not taking the batting powerplay until it was imposed upon them in 45th over, but by that time all big hitters were back in pavilion.

3. Misbah Ul Haq not playing any attacking shots, and resorting to blocking deliveries, playing like on the first day of a Test match.

A morning near the Valapatanam bridge..

2011-03-17T08:35:00.001+05:30

Nandi Hills

2011-03-08T13:16:00.000+05:30

View Larger Map

Veli tourist village

2011-02-28T10:37:00.003+05:30

http://www.keralatourism.org/destination/destination.php?id=25

Fear makes the wolf look bigger

2011-01-21T06:54:00.002+05:30

Courtesy: http://www.flickr.com/photos/alanbee/2789207201/sizes/o/in/set-72157606908726183/

The God-shaped-vacuum

2011-01-20T09:52:00.000+05:30

"Creatures are not born with desires unless satisfaction for those desires exists.

A baby feels hunger: well, there is such a thing as food.
A duckling wants to swim: there is such a things as water.
Men feel sexual desire: there is such a things as sex.

If I find in myself a desire which no experience in this world can satisfy, the more probable explanation is that I was made for another world."

Why do we have a "God-shaped vacuum" in our hearts and minds unless it is meant to be filled ?

Reunion 2011

2011-01-16T18:53:00.000+05:30

Sunset at Payyambalam beach

2011-01-10T08:20:00.003+05:30

Click on the images to view full-size photo.

Procrastination - Accept it and Kill it

2011-01-02T10:40:00.001+05:30

A new year has come, after the end of long holidays packed with fun, now eagerly waiting to get back to work! As new-year-resolution, I decided to identify and attack a 'productivity killer' which I was living with all these years - Procrastination.

Procrastination - "refers to the act of replacing high-priority actions or tasks with low-priority actions, and thus putting off important tasks to a later time."

After working for a while, I tell myself I need rest, need to regain mental energy and resort to reading random articles from internet collected via Google reader and other sites like Digg, Techcrunch etc or even worse - social networking sites!. But does reading random articles bring me mental rest or help me regain mental energy? Being true to myself, answer is NO.

"Reading random articles does not cause you to rest, that is, you do not regain mental energy from it. Success and happiness cause you to regain willpower; what you need to heal your mind from any damage sustained by working is not inactivity, but reliably solvable problems which reliably deliver experienced jolts of positive reinforcement. Putting in the effort to read a good book may do this; playing a good computer game may do this; reading random Internet articles, or playing bad games, probably won't."

Furthermore, on 99% of occasions, the tasks which I procrastinated and put off for a later time, when finally done, never used to be as tough as I had assumed when I procrastinated. So it appears that its not 'work' that was tough, but it was the 'decision to work'.

A particular human nature, Hyperbolic discounting, is said to be the root cause of procrastination.- "Given two similar rewards, humans show a preference for one that arrives sooner rather than later."

Now that I realise it, i should try and procrastinate less, resulting in lesser sense of guilt, lesser last-minute-crisis, more productivity and thus more happiness !

Ellora Caves - Maharashtra

2011-01-02T08:04:00.004+05:30

Ellora is one of the Wolrd Heritage sites identified by UNESCO. Its 30kms from Aurangabad city (less than 400kms from Mumbai). Daulatabad fort and Aurangazeb's tomb are on the way to Ellora from Aurangabad.

Ellora and Ajanta caves are about 100kms apart.

Mysore Zoo

2011-01-01T15:19:00.001+05:30

Located within the Mysore city.

http://www.mysorezoo.org/

Entry fee : Rs. 30
Camera fee: Rs. 10

Ranganatha Swamy Temple,Srirangapatna, Mysore

2011-01-01T15:14:00.000+05:30

Happy New Year 2011 !

2011-01-01T14:59:00.001+05:30

Holidays 2010 - Maharashtra trip - Day 4

2010-12-29T21:30:00.001+05:30

Belgaum -> Kohlapur -> Pune -> Aurangabad -> Jalna

View Larger Map

Holidays 2010 - Maharashtra trip - Day 3

2010-12-29T21:26:00.001+05:30

Hampi -> Koppal -> Hubli -> Belgaum

View Larger Map

Holidays 2010 - Maharashtra Trip - Day 2

2010-12-29T21:22:00.001+05:30

Banglore -> Chitradurga -> Hospet -> Hampi

View Larger Map

Holidays 2010 - Maharashtra Trip - Day 1

2010-12-22T08:17:00.002+05:30

Kannur -> Coorg -> Nagarhole -> Banglore

Rahul arrived at our house in Kannur and we started our journey at 8.15 AM.

View Larger Map

Kannur -> Iritty -> Makkutta -> Virajpet -> Gonikoppal and thus entered Karnataka.

Deepali wanted to see the Nagarhole national park once again. So we diverted from Mysore road at Gonikkoppal. Road was not good, but the regret disappeared when saw the beautiful Iruppu waterfalls on the way. Simple good waterfalls, not too much commercialized, chance for a small walk up the hills through lush green forest to reach the waterfall. Rahul was excited about his new DSLR camera and was busy playing with it all the time!

Had lunch from a small hotel near the waterfalls (typical Karnataka Thali) and started off to Nagarhole. After a few kilometers "Welcome to Kerala" board appeared again and we entered back into Kerala, and started travelling through the Tholpetty Wildlife sanctuary, Wayanad, Kerala. Roads after Gonikoppal was very bad, but the situation changed as soon as Kerala started - quite opposite to what we expect usually !

After Tholpetty, we passed through Wayanad wildlife sanctuary, came very near to Thirunelli temple, Kuruva island etc, but couldn't stop since we were running behind the schedule already. Entered Karntaka once again and started travelling through the Rajiv Gandhi national park (Nagarhole). Watchful eyes can catch many wild animals on either side of the road passing through the forest. We saw herds of deer, a peacock, and Deepali claims to have seen couple of elephants.

Reached Mysore city by 5 PM. Without further delay set off to Banglore via Mandya (4 lane SH-17). Wasted sometime inside Banglore city without knowing directions to Majestic bus stand (realised how much my Android phone with Google maps + GPS used to help us during our trips). Dropped Rahul at Majestic and we went to Whitefield for a night's halt at Varsha's 'orange house'.

Kodaikanal

2010-12-15T10:42:00.003+05:30

Kannur -> Banglore -> Salem -> Dindigul -> Kodaikanal

View Participatory Budgeting in a larger map

"Dump 'Em"

2010-11-10T11:57:00.002+05:30

An excerpt from "Dump 'Em: How to Break Up with Anyone from Your Best Friend to Your Hairdresser"

People often say that parents should stay together for the sake of the kids. But if children learn about relationships by watching their parents, how can it benefit them to witness two adults constantly fighting or staying in a loveless marriage? It doesn't. Ask anyone who grew up with parents who stayed together until the kids went off to college or moved out of the house. Most of them will tell you they grew up thinking marriage meant not liking your partner.

Bekal Fort

2010-10-31T11:34:00.002+05:30

View Larger Map

Madayipara during monsoon

2010-10-27T09:31:00.000+05:30

Cherai Beach

2010-10-27T09:28:00.000+05:30

View Larger Map

Free heart surgery for children

2010-10-18T10:48:00.001+05:30

Posted via email from Random Images

Unusual Trees

2010-10-13T11:08:00.001+05:30

See and download the full gallery on posterous

Posted via email from Random Images

The watch-maker analogy

2010-09-07T18:26:00.001+05:30

In crossing a heath, suppose I pitched my foot against a stone, and were asked how the stone came to be there; I might possibly answer, that, for anything I knew to the contrary, it had lain there forever: nor would it perhaps be very easy to show the absurdity of this answer. But suppose I had found a watch upon the ground, and it should be inquired how the watch happened to be in that place; I should hardly think of the answer I had before given, that for anything I knew, the watch might have always been there. There must have existed, at some time, and at some place or other, an artificer or artificers, who formed [the watch] for the purpose which we find it actually to answer; who comprehended its construction, and designed its use. Every indication of contrivance, every manifestation of design, which existed in the watch, exists in the works of nature; with the difference, on the side of nature, of being greater or more, and that in a degree which exceeds all computation.

William Paley, Natural Theology (1802)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Watchmaker_analogy

Ezhava Charitham

2010-09-03T12:17:00.001+05:30

http://www.esnips.com/doc/ffced3a6-5657-47c5-a9a2-83f79f89a548

A document created during one of those lovely jobless college days !

One day @Maneesh , Hemanth and me were sitting and chatting in C-19 of Mens Hostel, Govt. Engineering College, Thrissur, after having bunked the morning session.Discussions started by me attacking Hemanth about Airtel not having coverage in Vadakara - Hemanth hit back by comparing Vadakara to Switzerland. Maneesh could not remain silent - he started pouring in about Karukachal having its own bus service (Chambakkara road transport corporation) etc.

He dint stop there - he went ahead and started talking about his royal blood - Kurup & Kshathriya thingy - that he ancestors had got "put & kadala" from Maharajas of Travancore (thiruvithankoor maharajave). The proud Ezahavas Hemanth and me were, we couldn't stand this. We din't want to brag about us, we rather chose to release a PDF document - The_ Ezhava.pdf

Even though this document was prepared with a light-heart, the nairs, menons and pothuvals (dinilpnair@gmail, menonrules@rediffmail.com etc) sprang to life ! They reacted so fiercely in the yahoo group where it was posted, and got this historic document removed. They could easily get it done via Saju Ezhuthachan, owner of the Yahoo group and a peace-loving soul. Later, Rahul MH a brave ezhava registered his protest by disabling the 'moderator rights' of all other moderators and setting himself as the sole moderator of the class's Yahoo group.

After 5 long years, this historic document has seen daylight once again. Hats-off to Saithalavi mappila for his selfless act of preserving this piece of Eezhava history.

Bengaluru - Hogenakkal trip

2010-08-19T10:58:00.000+05:30

View Larger Map

Hogenakkal waterfalls, referred to as "Niagra of India" is in Dharmapuri district of Tamilnadu. Its about 350kms from Chennai and 180kms from Banglore. You can reach upto Dharmapuri by travelling through high-speed 4 lane Chennai <-> Banglore road. From Dharmapuri, we have to deviate away from the highway and travel 47kms to reach the Hogenakkal falls. This road is also well maintained. From Banglore, there is a shorter road which deviates from Hosur and reaches Hogenakkal directly without touching Dharmapuri,which will help one save about 25kms. But I still recommend the highway. Salem is at a distance of 115 kms.

We started our trip from Marathahalli in Banglore. From Outer ring road we went straight to Silk Board Junction and took left turn to Hosur road. The elevated highway which bypasses the Electronics city is superb. Though they charge 20Rs toll, its worth it.

We pass through Hosur, Krishnagiri to reach Dharmapuri.Road from Dharmapuri to Hogenakkal is scenic, with lush green on both sides. We can see the giant guardian deities called "Aiyanars" in these typical Tamilnadu agrarian villages.

The Hogenekkal is a series of waterfalls in the Kaveri river, which originates at thalakaveri in Coorg. The river Kaveri at Hogenakkal is the borderline between Karnataka and TamilNadu. The area is surrounded by hills, which gives us a beautiful panoramic view.

As much as i could see, Kaveri river splits into two sections at Hogenakkal - one section has all the falls, and another section which is almost perpendicular to the first section, collects water from all the falls and flows downstream peacefully. The whole scene is spread over a kilometer-square area.

We have to ride down the river in a circular-basket-boat (Coracle or "parisal") to experience Hogenakkal at its fullest. A coracle is a circular boat made of bamboo and covered with polythene sheets, reinforced by a layer of tar at the bottom, for waterproofing.

First, we were taken to other side of the river in the boat. This place is like an island where there are lot of trees, and Kaveri river all around us ! We can enjoy the place and walk over to the main river from where we have to continue our boat journey. The man carries the boat on his head to this place. There is a view tower in here, from where one could get a full view of the place.

After getting into the boat again, even before you see the falls, the roaring sound of the splashing waters welcomes you. As we neared the waterfalls, spray of water drops kissed our faces - mind you - its SCARY ! 6 of us in bamboo basket which keeps shaking and rotating, moving towards the thundering waterfalls, totally handing over our lives to skills of a village boat man ! To make it more "exciting", the boatman started rotating the boat frantically. I was sitting in the center of the boat and nearly lost all my senses. I closed my eyes and held tightly one of my "light-weight" friends who was sitting on the edge of the boat, out of the fear that she may fly away due to the centrifugal force ! After those thrilling moments, full of excitement, where mind was filled with God, the boat started moving downstream where the river became more broader and started flowing calmly.

As we moved down the river, we were filled with awe for the nature's rock sculptures. There were tall black/gray granite rocks on both sides, of various shapes. We were told that the river is about 60 feet deep in that place. That is about 10 times my height and sent a chill through my spine. Boatman kept talking about the movies that were shot in those areas. "Roja" and "Jaganmohini" are two names which I can remember now. He told us about 200 Tamil movies had been shot there !

On one of the high-rising rocks, we saw a man waving at us. Our boat man told that he is "rajnikanth" who comes there on all Sundays to entertain the visitors. He kept showing the "style mannan"'s stylish actions till we went far away.

We also saw a mobile-snacks-store in the river, where a man had setup a full fledged shop in a basket boat like ours !

After gliding through the calm river, admiring the beauty of rocks we reached a beach/island from where the boat would return. This place also had all types of fish delicacies and bajjis being served.

We had to travel upstream, against the river's flow to return to the starting point. The boatman had to work really hard to get us back there.

There are places in Hogenakkal where is possible to bath under the waterfalls, or in the river safely which could be rejuvenating.

We returned back to Banglore with a thoroughly refreshed mind and body.

Kannur - Banglore trip

2010-08-18T21:37:00.002+05:30

Kannur -> Mattannur -> Iritty -.> Koottupuzha (Kerala border) ->
Virajpet -> Gonikoppal -> Hunsur -> Mysore -> Mandya -> Ramanagara -> Banglore

Total about 330kms. Covered in less than 7hours.

Ghat section of the road, where we cross the Western Ghats (makkutta ghat road - Iritty -> Virajpet) had been reconstructed recently and is in very good condition. It passes through the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, and through some parts of Rajiv Gandhi National park. If you are lucky, you will see a few elephants, deers etc on the roadside (monkeys for sure).

After about 10kms from Gonikoppal, we meet the manglore -> Madikeri -> Mysore state highway, which is 4 lane. This meets the Mysore -> Banglore 4 lane highway near mysore. So we get to travel in high quality 4 lane roads, after Gonikoppal, which is about 3/4th of the total distance from Kannur -> Banglore.

For the return journey, we started at 4AM from Banglore and reached at 10.30 AM in Kannur.
View Larger Map

Kudajadri trek

2010-07-29T06:17:00.006+05:30

Hemanth from Chennai, Maneesh from Banglore, Rahul from Mahe & me from Kannur - Everybody assembled at my house in Kannur on Saturday morning. We filled our tummies with "Put & Kadala" and started off the journey by 9 AM. It was heavy rain and as usual roads inside Kerala were in bad condition. Also Hemanth kept stopping the car frequently for emptying his bladder.

We reached Manglore by 12.30 PM. Filled diesel from Surathkal. Reached Kundapura by 3.30 PM and had lunch. NH-17 inside Karnataka was in very good state compared to that in Kerala. Reached Kollur at 5PM and took a room in Mayura guest house. (a big-enough room for three persons for Rs.500).

We walked to take bath in Souparnika river. Since it was mid-monsoon season the river was flowing flowing fast and in abundance. But we managed to step down and took bath. Water was ice-cold. Rahul was tired and returned to room, while Hemanth, Maneesh and me went to the Kollur Mookambika temple.

We hired a jeep (1000Rs) next day morning to reach the base of Kudajadri mountain. The jeep travelled about 15kms in the narrow Kollur -> Shimoga road, from where it entered a forest road. Upto this point we could have come in car itself, but chose not to do it since we'll have to leave the car in such a place and go. We entered dense forest directly. Had to stop jeep couple of times to move trees/branches that had fallen on the way. Haf an hour travel through the rough forest track took us to the base of Kudajadri, where a Kerala teashop was located(!). We had hot tea, and bought salt-sticks as weapon against leeches, and started our trek, against pouring rain.

Trek was not easy, but it was thoroughly enjoyable for four college mates! Memories, jokes poured in along with rain as we climbed up the mountain. A dog joined us from nowwhere, and kept coming up with us! Fog increased as we started climbing up. The views from the mountain top, when fogs cleared momentarily were breath-taking. We met people coming down the mountain. They had climbed up the previous day, and spent the night on mountain top. We wished to do it, but dint have enough time with us.

Reached up the hill by noon. There is a small temple there, and another tea shop. We had tea and Tiger biscuits, and fed our dog. "Sarvajna Peedam" (place associated with Sankaracharya) was still 1.5 kms away. Maneesh had a train to catch from Manglore at 7PM, so we decided to return.

Climb dow was much easier. On the way we met people climbing up. We scared them saying that there is 3x of actual distance was left ! The dog was still with us. It left us from the place it had joined us. Don't really know why that dog took so much of pain to accompany us to the top in such adverse weather ! Jeep took us back to Kollur.

We had to rush now as we had only few hours left with us to reach Manglore to catch Maneesh's train to Banglore. We skipped lunch, travelled directly and reached Manglore at 6PM. After leaving Maneesh at the station, we continued our journey and stopped at Kasarkod for dinner. Reached back Kannur by 11PM.

Quite happy to realise that "college-life" hasn't ended !

Kannur -> Pazhayangadi -> Payyannur -> Kasarkod -> Manglore -> Surathkal -> Udupi -> Kundapura -> Kollur (About 250kms on NH-17 and then a 40kms stretch from Kundapura to Kollur, which is also good road)

Muzhappilangad

2010-06-28T20:02:00.003+05:30

Thalakaveri (Coorg) with Renshi & Roshni

2010-06-06T15:44:00.000+05:30

Kannur -> Payyannur -> Kanhangad -> Chemberi -> Panathoor -> Bhagamandalam -> Thalakaveri

View Larger Map

Mahe - With Rahul & Sudarsh

2010-06-03T23:20:00.001+05:30

View Larger Map

Kannur Lighthouse

2010-06-02T08:26:00.005+05:30

Share

View Larger Map

Thirunelli temple - Wayanad, Kerala

2010-05-30T12:13:00.001+05:30

With the Lamas .. Tibetan settlement at Bylakuppe, Coorg, Karnataka

2010-05-30T12:11:00.002+05:30

http://www.orangecounty.in/coorg/bylekuppe-tibetan-settlement.php

Memories - Pondicherry bike trip (with Remil, Anand and Mullai Apartment friends, Chennai)

2010-05-08T19:27:00.000+05:30

Yelagiri with Hemu, Saju and Moosa (July 2007)

2010-05-04T19:11:00.000+05:30

Memories - Mahabalipuram trip with Remil (June 2007)

2010-05-04T17:58:00.000+05:30

Athirappilly Waterfalls

2010-05-03T08:46:00.002+05:30

Boating in backwaters of Alapuzha

2010-04-27T10:36:00.003+05:30

Ooty with Zeba and family

2010-04-18T13:06:00.000+05:30

Difficulty in finding time convenient for both of us, has been delaying this trip for sometime now. We realised that it would never happen if we kept waiting, so compressed the trip to one day and made it happen yesterday! It seemed impossible - a one-day trip from kannur to ooty (250kms - out of which about 100kms are mountain roads), but went for it.

We (Deepali & me) reached Zeba's house in Thalassery early morning. They were ready and we started off from Thalassery at 3.40AM. Filled diesel from Mahe, went on and reached Kozhikode at 5. Then headed to Nilambur via Areakode. It was sunrise by the time we reached Nilambur. 100kms were left to cover. Ghat road starts at Vazhikadave after Nilambur. Its a climb up the Kerala forests, with a few hair-pin bends. We first start seeing the white clouds from below, then we were at level with them and finally we could see the clouds floating below us, by the time we reached above! Forest in this region are mainly characterised by thick old yellow and green bamboo trees. We enter Tamilnadu somewhere during this climb. Vazhikadave is the last town of Kerala.

Then we descend a little and reach Gudallur, the first town of Tamilnadu in this route. Had breakfast from Gudallur. Ooty was 50kms away and now the second stage of climb-up was about to begin. The Kerala forests were over and we were about to go up the Nilgiris - the Queen of Hills. Climate had already changed - it was already cool, and was going to get cooler as gained altitude. Stopped the car at couple of view points, in between dense Eucalyptus forests and near coffee/tea estates.

Visited the green lake of Pykara which is about 20kms from Ooty, on the way. It is well know for its serenity and green colored water and pleasant boating experienced (though boating doesn't happen at this time of the year).

We dint stop at the "Film shooting Medu" as it looked liked a barren hill (lush green was absent, being summer). Instead we stopped at the "Tree Park" (many film songs have been shot in between the trees here). Horse riding was the main activity here, We dint ride a horse, but we all got on top of a brown one, just to click the camera :) We spent some time walking about in the woods, which was very nice. Climate was very pleasant, soothing cold.

Reached Ooty by 10.30 - Ooty was become a developed crowded town. Being tourist season, it was so crowded that we had to park our car far away and walk a kilometer. But this allowed us to checkout all of the roadside shops. The juicy Ooty carrots brought out the rabbits in us, and we ate 2-3 carrots each! We also bought yummy home made chocolates.

Next was the botanical garden. It was beautiful. But may be we had already seen a lot of natural beauty earlier in the day, that the man-made botanical garden failed to draw much interest from any of us. We purchased a few saplings, a bottle of euclaypus oil and got out of the botanical garden.

After lunch, we headed to Doddabetta, the highest peak of South India, 8kms from Ooty. Even though its just 8kms, the climb is very steep. It rained as soon as we reached on top of peak - the rain water at that height, was more cold than any freezer could ever make it! Rain stopped soon and we walked to the view point. It was a wonderful sight - we could see Coimbatore/Mettupalayam cities on one side, Ooty town on another side and few other peaks on the third side. It was cloudy with no sun at Doddabetta, but we could see far-off places with bright sunshine - it was a wonderful experience. There is a telescope tower at Doddabetta. We had to stand in queue for about 20mins to reach the telescope, and we finally reached only to realise that those stupids wont allow us to rotate the telescope or do anything with it. We were supposed to look through it and see the window of a house far away in the hills, to which the telescope was focused and fixed. But the telescope tower provided an awesome 360 degreee panoramic view of the places. We took few photos of this view, but no camera can capture that natural splendour, generate the awe in us which we experience by standing there.

It was 3.15PM, we had coffee from Doddabetta and started the return journey. Climb down was much easier and faster. Reached ooty town by 4 and Gudallur by 5pm. Dint return via Nilambur, since we would have to drive through the Vazhikadave ghat region with headlights on. Instead turned towards Wayanad after Gudallur. Drive through the tea estates Tamilnad and Kerala border near Wayanad, the sun setting with orange skies was very pleasant. Turned towards NH 212 from Chundel, reached Thamarassery via Vythiri, Lakkidi and Adivaram. Between Lakkidi and Adivaram is the great Thamarassery Churam. Couldn't the picturesque view from top, since it was dark. The ghat road had 9 hair-pin bends, but we could travel fast and reach the base (adivaram) since the road was wide, well maintaned with reflectors and indicators. From Thamarassery, we turned towards NH 17 via Balussery and reached Quilandy by 9pm.

Heavy rain came down on us as soon as we resumed journey from Quilandy, post dinner. Rain was so heavy that we couldn;t even see the road. Most of the vehicles had stopped and had been parked on the road sides. Though we dint stop, we had to slow-down so much that it took 90 mins for us to reach Mahe from Quilandy.

Intensity of the rain reduced by the time we crossed Mahe. We reached back home at Kannur at 11PM after dropping Zeba and parents at their house in Thalassery.

The most beautiful spot in Kannur - Seaview near Mascot Hotel

2010-04-15T15:01:00.000+05:30

Vishu morning at Parassinikadave

2010-04-15T08:13:00.001+05:30

Keralites are very good at this

2010-04-15T07:50:00.000+05:30

Its Vishu

2010-04-14T08:09:00.000+05:30

Vishu means "equal" in Sanskrit, refers to equinox, the day when duration of day and night becomes equal. So there will be two "vishus" every year - vernal (in malayalam month of Medam) and autumnal (month of Thulam) .But Keralites celebrate only one of them - the Vishu of Medam or the vernal equinox. (14th or 15th of April every year). It is also the astrological New Year of Kerala.

Vishu marks the end of the harvest season and herald of a new spring season to plant new saplings and venture new projects. On the first day of the Malayalese month of New Year, Vishu is observed.

During this time, the landscape of Kerala is beautiful with blooms of lovely yellow kanikonna flowers and mango blossoms are replaced by tiny budding mangoes. Jack tress are laden with giant green jackfruits.

Vishu kani

Keralites worship their god, Vishukkani with various traditional articles like golden cucumber, betel leaves, raw rice, yellow flowers or konna (Cassia fistula), arecanut, fresh linen, metal mirror, a holy text with coins in a bell metal vessel known as uruli, lighted bell metal lamp called nilavilakku. Entire arrangement is complete on the previous night so they would walk to the puja room next morning with eyes closed and Vishukkani would be the first object to see as they would open their eyes.

People open up their eyes in the morning as they offer Vishukanis to their god to catch the glimpse of the ‘lucky sight’. This ‘lucky sight’ as believed bring good luck and prosperity to their lives for the rest of the year.

Thousands prefer to see Kani at Guruvayur on Vishu morning. Crowds stay overnight inside the courtyard of temple, which is specially permitted on this day. They close their eyes and set their eyes on the Kani and deity, as the doors are opened at early morning for darshan.

"When first in the morning we see,
With sleepless eyes, you who sow light
The necklace of gold and the garland
Of Konna flowers seem alike to me,
So are the coins of silver
And these new cakes of camphor,
O glorious Light of eternal Truth!
Awakened by your vision for a while,
We are today the true countrymen
Of the master of Advaita"
(Vallathol)

Kani Konna

Cassia Fistula or in Malayalam Kanikonna, the ritual flower used by Keralites for arranging Vishukani during Vishu festival.

Vishu Kaineettam

Another big ritual is the Vishu Kaineettam (money) given by elders. The kaineettam is children's own money, to be spent on anything they wanted! The next few days after Vishu would see children counting our moneys and seeing who got the most.

Vishu Crackers

The bursting of crackers starts on the eve when the dusk sets in and it progresses till late night reserving the fiery ones for launch at early morning on the Vishu dawn after the auspicious Vishu Kani

Vishu Sadya

No celebration is complete without food! Vishu Sadya consists of 'vishu katta'/'vishu kanji' prepared with rice, milk and coconut and other delicacies made up of jack fruit, mango, kalan, erisherri, payasam etc. etc.

Distance, time and era have reduced the dazzle around traditional festivals and celebrations. But Vishu continues to evoke sense of excitement and happiness in Keralites around the world.

Vishu celebrations at home

2010-04-14T00:09:00.001+05:30

Love verse - 4

2010-04-12T08:53:00.001+05:30

"Why have you no pity for my love? The stars do not disdain the sea. They can admire themselves in it. "

Iritty - Kanjirakkolli trip

2010-04-12T07:52:00.000+05:30

Iritty is a small town located in the north-eastern side of Kannur district of Kerala. It is surrounded by green hills, valleys and serene rivers. Mysore is 190kms from Iritty, and this is the shortest route to Banglore from Kannur, but not used nowadays as the condition of road near Virajpet is very bad (about 20kms stretch).

Iritty is 45kms away from Kannur town. From Iritty one has to drive 26kms (via Ulikkal) to reach Kanjirakkolli. It has waterfalls, rocks, high altitude viewpoints, and ideal for trekking. It is not well-developed tourist area, so hotels, signboards etc are rare at the moment. So its an idea place now for adventurists who like to find their own way.

Reaching up the Kanjirakkolli is very difficult with normal cars - road becomes very narrow, extremely steep and rough towards the top of the hills. We managed to do it with the Ritz, but its not recommendable. A jeep or SUV will be ideal.

Mappila Bay, Kannur

2010-04-10T03:03:00.002+05:30

Saithalavi's marriage at Thrikkadiri, Palakkad

2010-04-09T15:38:00.002+05:30

From 2010-04-07

Deepali had lunch with Sajith Varyar and Remil, all of them being vegetarians for the time being. After lunch Sajith Varyar called me to a side and told me, "Da, I am sorry ee chenayudem kumbalangayudem onnum english enikkariyilla" :)

Banglore - the garden city trip

2010-03-24T02:35:00.002+05:30

Kanyakumari trip - A journey to the southern tip of India

2010-03-24T02:32:00.002+05:30

My childhood friend Manoj Chacko's house warming at Trivandrum presented us with an excellent opportunity to plan a trip to Thiruvananthapuram, which could be easily extended upto Kanyakumari.

Payyanur - Subrahmania temple and river

2010-03-24T01:54:00.002+05:30

Marriage @ Guruvayur

2010-03-10T03:32:00.002+05:30

Madayippara

2010-03-07T03:25:00.002+05:30

Madayi is a small village adjoining the Pazhayangadi town about 20kms from Kannur. Madayippara (para means rock in malayalam) is a beautiful laterite hill. One can enjoy the marvellous view of Pazhayangadi town, coconut groves and the serene Kuppam river from the Madayi hills.

Madayippara is known for its bio-diversity, historical and religious significance.

Bio-diversity

It has been found that the region contains about 300 flowering plants, about 30 varieties of grass, and several insect-eating plant species. Madayipara is also home to several rare medicinal herbs, which are sought by people from near and far off places. Coming to avian life, Madayipara sustains about 100 species of butterflies and about 150 species of birds. Among the biggest butterflies in the world, the Atlas butterfly is a visitor to Madayipara.

Religion

There are 3 temples in Madayi.

1. Madayikkavu (kavu means temple in malayalam).

2. Vadukunda Siva Temple.

3. Muchilott bhagavati temple.

Vadukunda Siva Temple, on top of the Madayi hillls has an adjoining lake amidst the rocks, which doesn't dry even during any summer, is a wonder. This pond is said to be one reason for the existence of wide variety of life forms in the Madayi hills.

History

Madayipara is known to be administrative center of the Ezhimala kings. Remains of a fort can be seen on southern side of the hill.

Route

Kannur -> Valapatanam Bridge (through NH 17) -> Pappinisseri -> Kannapuram -> Pazhayangadi -> Madayi

We at Madayippara

Quest for freedom is the fuel for life

2010-02-28T16:06:00.002+05:30

"Verukal manilum shakhakal vinnilum
swathanthryathe anweshikunathinaal
vriksham jeevikunnu"

Translation:-

"The roots search in the soil
And the branches search in the sky
For freedom
Hence the tree lives ... "

- Thevadi narayanakurup

A day with Captain Renshi Raman - my bestest friend !

2010-02-28T03:41:00.002+05:30

Photos at Pullut, Dad's house@kodungallur

2010-02-25T01:14:00.002+05:30

Marriage Reception @ Sky Palace, Kannur

2010-02-25T01:12:00.002+05:30

Punnathur Kotta - Elephant Sanctuary @Guruvayur

2010-02-25T01:09:00.002+05:30

Kadalayi Srikrishna Temple

2010-02-25T01:07:00.002+05:30

Azheekkal Beach

2010-02-25T01:06:00.002+05:30

Payyambalam Beach

2010-02-25T01:05:00.002+05:30

Thayyil Beach

2010-02-25T01:02:00.002+05:30

Wordress for Android

2010-02-23T20:24:00.002+05:30

Found the new Wordpress application on Android market today. It can be used to connect to multiple wordpress blogs, notify new comments, moderate comments, upload photos, compose & publish new posts - all this from android phone, on the go!

Mobile blogging starts with this post !!

Be a fool, drop your ego - Osho

2010-01-21T19:28:00.002+05:30

A fool is one who goes on trusting; a fool is one who goes on trusting against all his experience. You deceive him, and he trusts you; and you deceive him again, and he trusts you; and you deceive him again, and he trusts you. Then you will say that he is a fool, he does not learn. His trust is tremendous; his trust is so pure that nobody can corrupt it. Be a fool in the Taoist sense, in the Zen sense. Don't try to create a wall of knowledge around you. Whatsoever experience comes to you, let it happen, and then go on dropping it. Go on cleaning your mind continuously; go on dying to the past so you remain in the present, herenow, as if just born, just a babe. In the beginning it is going to be very difficult. The world will start taking advantage of you...let them. They are poor fellows. Even if you are cheated and deceived and robbed, let it happen, because that which is really yours cannot be robbed from you, that which is really yours nobody can steal from you. And each time you don't allow situations to corrupt you, that opportunity will become an integration inside. Your soul will become more crystallized.

Theeratha Chinthakal - Never ending thoughts...

2009-12-30T19:26:00.002+05:30

[caption id="attachment_152" align="alignnone" width="618" caption="Chinthakal"][/caption]

Thoovanathumbikal - Theme Music

2009-12-30T03:45:00.002+05:30

My favorite movie of all times - Thoovanthumbikal. Directed by the one and only Padmarajan. Music by Johnson

Link

Theme Music - Namukku Parkkan Munthiri Thoppukal

2009-12-30T03:18:00.002+05:30

Love -verse3

2009-12-30T02:57:00.002+05:30

As the branch bends beneath the weight of that bird,

so I bend beneath the weight of your love for me;

But when you leave me, I have not the branch's resilience.

Yet what does it matter, O bird? Go on singing.

I had forgotten that your song would soon cease

and that I had not got it yet by heart.

Love - verse2

2009-12-21T15:04:00.002+05:30

If I had the talent of Valmiki

I would write a poem with you as heroine

The first ten parts would be given over to ten fingers of your hand

For they wove a veil, in which I have wrapped up all my ancient loves.

Love - verse1

2009-12-21T00:50:00.002+05:30

She took the flowers in her hands and admired them .. Their petals closed.

"Oh, what is happening?", she asked

"You looked at them with the darkness of your eyes ..

and they thought it was night", I replied

Google DNS

2009-12-04T13:19:00.002+05:30

You open your browser (Firefox, Internet explorer etc), then type "xyz.com" in the address bar and press enter. Your browser doesn't connect to xyz.com directly, it connects to a DNS server instead. This DNS server tells your browser the actual address (IP address) of xyz.com. This process is called DNS resolution.

Which DNS server is used - some default will be set automatically by our Internet Service Provider (Airtel, BSNL etc), and 99% of the users don't change it. This works for sure, but the DNS resolution process can be speeded up(as a result, faster browsing) if we use third-party DNS servers like Open-DNS. In addition to faster browsing, these DNS providers give us the added value of ability to filter the content that can be browsed (you can find out which are your son's favorite porn sites, login to OpenDNS, and add these sites to the blocked list. Next time your son tries any of these sites, he will get a "blocked" message)

The above example must have made it clear how critical position the DNS server occupies in our day to day internet browsing. There is little a normal/layman user can do on the internet without letting your DNS server know.

With this context in mind, its pretty easy to understand why the largest online advertising company, Google has launched DNS resolution services. Google already decides how we (the normal/layman users) should experience the internet, starting from the Google Search (the face/gateway of the internet), to Gmail (which is synonymous to email now), to Google Chrome OS browser.

I have seen so many people complain/crib about this, about Google's monopoly, about Google collecting web usage habits of people (for targeted advertisement) etc. But I don't understand - Google doesn't force anyone to use their products. Its just the quality of the services which they provide us for free that makes everyone use it. And its so simple, nobody would give anything for free, Google is a company, its a business. Why would we bother about the benefits Google reap as long as they provide us with the high quality, useful web services. Or if you really bother, simply don't use them!

I have switched over to Google DNS - there is considerable speed improvement, which readily translates to a better internet experience.

Here is how to use Google as your DNS provider - http://code.google.com/speed/public-dns/docs/using.html

Love

2009-11-14T00:57:00.002+05:30

Khalil Gibran says,

Be like the two pillars that support the same roof, but don't start possessing the other, leave the other independent. Support the same roof - that roof is love

Each person has his own existence, an individuality. He/she needs their own space and that space should not be interfered with. When two individuals are in love (or they assume to be so), they start interfering in each other's space. They start thinking that they are no longer two individuals - they stop talking about "I" and "You", they say its just "We".

"I" and "You" disappearing and dissolving into "We" - this does happen in rare moments. These moments are precious and must be cherished. Once that moment is gone, individuals are back to "you" and "I". But it is taken for granted that these two individuals can remain "We" 24x7. Individuals in love start demanding this after they reach this "We" experience once, and this creates unnecessary misery.

You have your space and your lover has his/hers. We should have the mutual respect for each other's space and should not trespass. When you do, you disturb the other person's individuality. It hurts him/her. But since he/she loves you they will tolerate it. But toleration is a thing which has its limit, sooner or later that limit will be crossed, its just a matter of time. It goes on, one day, two day, months, or years may be. You keep interfering and the other tolerating. It keeps accumulating. It piles up. And one day finally.. BANG... It explodes.

Basic requirement to call a relationship "Love" is that other other has to be given complete freedom to be himself/herself.

People can get married and live a lifetime together - this is often mistaken as "love". It is merely an acquaintance/relationship that is held together because of so many external pressures (presence of children, society etc).

"Love" is a divine. It is a verb, not a noun. As Jesus said, "Love is God". We don't need temples or religion - We can forget God himself. For love will take us to God. But if we forget Love , then God is lost. Then we need inferior substitutes like temples, prayers, offerings, rituals to reach God.

Ooty again!

2009-11-10T12:26:00.003+05:30

This time with parents, exactly after a week with friends. Spent 2 full days this time and visited as many spots as possible, in and around Ooty. But more that visiting the tourist spots, the journey through the misty roads of the Nilgiris was the best part.

A few photos from ooty - Manish , Alavi and me

2009-11-02T11:13:00.004+05:30

See and download the full gallery on posterous

Posted via email from Unni's Rants

Indian citizen & Govt.offices - An Experience

2009-10-09T14:15:00.003+05:30

September 1 - Booked a Maruti Ritz from Har Cars Kannur.
September 7 - Car was delivered after registration with permanent number

They told me that RC book will be delivered to you by registered post from the RTO office in 2 weeks.

1 month passed. I dint get the RC book. I had planned an interstate trip on October 9th. So on Oct 6 Monday, went to RTO office to enquire about the RC book. The public relations officer (PRO) told me that it will take another 2 weeks (without even looking up anywhere). I told her its urgent for me, I need to go out of the state this weekend. Madam got irritated, turned on the monitor, clicked on few places and told me that it has already been despatched. I was not ready to buy it - I told her that I havent received it yet, so please tell me the details of the parcel so that I can check with the post office. Then she told its ready here in the office, but not despatched yet, it will take one more week. She asked me to talk to the RTO, if he gives a written permission, they will despatch my RC the same day itself.

I went to meet the RTO in his room. He seemed to be a gentleman. Asked me when was the registration done - I told on September 7th. He called the clerk and asked him, till what date RC books have been despatched. He told till 14th September. Then RTO asked, how come this guy dint get it till now, his car was registered on 7th. Smile on clerk's face disappaeared. RTO asked him to call the supervisor in charge of the despatch section. When asked for reason, he easily said that there is only one staff in the despatch section, others are on leave, so lots of RC books are pending. RTO asked him 2 questions -

If such a situtation exists, why dint you arrange an alternate arrangement (may be asking 1-2 jobless peons to assist etc) ?
The public doesn't need to come and ask us for the RC book - its our responsibility to deliver it to them in 2 weeks. So if 1 month old RC books are pending here in this office, why was I not informed?

Supervisor dint have any answer. RTO scolded him (he deserved it well too). At the end RTO gave him the deadline till tomorrow evening, to despatch all the pending RC books. He agreed, and asked me my car's number, so that he could send mine first. Supervisor told me that he will post it next day(October 7), so that i will get it on October 8, and I can comfortably go for the trip on October 9. I thanked the RTO and the supervisor and left.

I waited till 2pm on October 8th. Nothing happened. Went to RTO office again. RTO was not present there. Went to the supervisor and enquired. He gve a wicked smile and told me that they have despatched the pending ones, but dint sent mine - REASON - 2Rs stamp was less on my appliation. Registration was done by the Maruti dealer, they register so many cars everyday, so I don't believe that stamp was short.

I went outside, bought the stamp and handed it over. He told me that now there are no issues, it will be despatched that day itself. I dint trust him (not the just him, the whole lot of govt employees now), waited there till the guy from post office came and collected it from the RTO office.

My house, the Head postoffice Kannur, RTO office - all are within 3 kms radius. Since it was SPEED POST also, I was very confident that I will get it the next day morning (October 9th), and I can leave the same day evening. Packed my bags, made all arrangements. Din't'wait for the postman to deliver it this time - morning itself went to my local post office (Pallikunnu, Kannur-4) - they told me that no speed post/registered parcel had arrived for me - I rushed to the RTO office to confirm whether they had despatched it. RTO guys confirmed it. So I went to Speed Post section, Head Post office, Kannur.

The man at "Speed post" told me that, if parcel had reached yesterday evening, then it will be despatched from here only today evening. It will reach your local post office tomorrow morning. WOW... this is SPEED POST. For a parcel to travel less than 3kms, it takes more than 36 hours.

I had to cut short and postpone my trip to tomorrow morning (October 10th). Will go to the local post office and sit there as soon as it opens, hoping to find my RC Book in the sack of Speed Posts. Hopefully it arrives tomorrow..

Sighhhhhhh..

A marriage reception..

2009-08-24T21:11:00.004+05:30

Went for a marriage reception - dad's colleague's daugter's (or son's - not sure - does that matter?). Entered the auditorium (navaneetam, kannur). As usual my nose caught the aroma of food and eyes found their source. But had to go through the boring ceremony of 'meeting' the newly married couple (clad in sherwani n all that), smiling to them, photograph and video etc. before that.

Launched a 70mm smile on face, went to the groom and shook this hands - "I am Pradeep sir's son"

Groom:- "Oh yea, mom always talks about you"

(olakkede moodane - He doesn't even know my dad, and his mom doesnt know me- we both know this well - still for a matter a courtesy). By that time parents joined and similar dialogues followed. Then I noticed that the bride was looking at me curiously:-

"I know you, I have seen you somewhere.."

"me? No no no, no chance"

"where did you study?"

"Govt. Engineering college, Thrissur"

"Oh.. thats it, I was in Vimala College"

All doubts cleared. A kind of funny smile on everyone else's face ( a now-we-know-what-you-did-four-years smile).

"So,All the best, Wish you a happy married life.... Come fast mom, your friends are waiting"

For those who don't know:- Vimala college is the Women's college next to Thrissur Engineering College.

Onam in a nutshell

2009-08-23T15:30:00.004+05:30

Onam is the national festival of the God's Own Country - Kerala.

All famlies in Kerala - irrespective of their religion and caste make Floral decorations on floor called pookkalam

Festivities include :-

Elaborate feasts

Tranditional dances

Boat races (Vallam Kali)

Game of tigers (Pulikkali)

Wearing traditional dress

..and a lot more.

As the belief goes, Onam is the day when the mythical king Mahabali aka Maveli who ruled Kerala long back, comes to visit his beloved people of Kerala.

Onam is the time of the year when Malayalees from all over the world come back home. And for the ones who are not able to be at Kerala, its time when nostalgia fills their minds.

Cycle trip to Muzhappilangad-Dharmadam

2009-07-18T22:24:00.003+05:30

After 3 days of continuous heavy rains, Kerala is flooded. So is Kannur.No better time for cycling, as I dont need to go to new places to see new sights - the usual places would present themselves in a different way, covered with water!

So decided to take a long ride towards south through the NH-17. From the time I was born I have been travelling up and down the NH-17. Now I like it more, after I saw during last train journey that NH-17 runs parallel to the Konkan railway line and reaches very near NaviMumbai - Anything connected to Bombay has a special place in my heart :)

Dharmadam is a small village roughly 17kms from Kannur and 20kms from my home. It is the place where the Anjarakkandy river meets the sea (i had gone to Azheekkal last month, where valapattanam river falls into the sea).NH 17 crosses the Anjarakkandy river over the Moidu Palam (Palam means bridge). Its an old bridge built by the Britishers. It is very narrow that two buses coming in opposite directions cannot cross it at the same time.

Muzhappilangad is the longest Drive-in beach of Kerala - one can drive about 5kms through the sands, or through the waves, if you are adventurous. I have come here in car before, but first time in cycle. From highway we have to travel 2kms though the village roads to reach the drive-in beach. These roads are very beautiful with coconut trees on either sides.

View Larger Map

Once upon a time ..

2009-07-05T08:31:00.003+05:30

Azhikkal Ferry

2009-06-28T14:07:00.003+05:30

Azhikkal is a beautiful village where the serene Valapattanam river meets the Arabian sea. It is roughly 12kms from the Kannur town and 10kms from Pallikunnu, where I live.

Rain is pouring down here and I am starting a cycle trip to Azhikkal. This is the route I am going to take:-

View Larger Map

Wow.. Back from Azheekkal. One of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. Ride was comfortable. 2.5kms through NH-17 and then 8kms through the village roads. I am making full use of my Google Android phone:-

1. Google maps and GPS tracking to find the route.
2. Music all the way with headset.
3. Photos/Videos.
4. Occasional Twitter/Facebook update
5. Replies to urgent emails.

Makes me feel happy- have nearly spent a fortune on that phone. Its proving to be more than worthy already :)

Google maps with GPS tracking - this is helping a lot actually. I don't like asking way to anyone. So usually I count upon my instincts and choose roads, sometimes end up riding more distance, dead end in front of houses etc. Gone are those days - now I know precisely where I am and where I shoud head to..!

Started from home at 4pm. Drizzle was there. Who cares - its more fun to ride in the rain - back to childhood days ! But have to protect the phone - so covered it neatly - made it waterproof. Only problem with rain - it prevents me from using my headset - so no digital music - but rain's music is even better !

The ride took 45 mins total - without any stops.

This is the road parallel to the Valpattanam river. River is already having waves, as it is going to enter the Arabian sea in less than a kilometer.

Main road (tar-ed road) ended. Then it was a narrow strip which lead to the face of the sea - the actual meeting point of the sea and river.

As I moved ahead, the peaceful silence of the river started turning into majestic roar of the Arabian sea.

Beach started appearing on the left side, while on the right side I couldn't say whether its the river or sea. River had already merged with the sea.

The road dint stop there. It went into the sea, about half kilometer. The waves started getting stronger and stroner and then violent. Water was splashing from either side, along with roaring sound of the sea. Nobody around and me in a narrow strip of land surrounded by sea on 3 sides - wonderful experience.

Climbed on top of a rock and enjoyed the majestic arrogance of the sea. Clouds were clearing - so I was hoping to see the sunset of my life! But it was getting darker, waves were getting stronger, so decided against the idea of waiting till the red hot iron plunged into salt water.

All Photos

All Videos

1.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YfdWlQT5wY8

2.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s8iWLqsWp0E

3.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AEbGcE1b89A

4.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V4nUAJCv-pQ

5.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HEwr7d8Gpro

6.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w2VQiPbwkx0

7.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AYap3GP3HGw

8.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bxVCaeVMHiw

Gone too soon ..

2009-06-26T13:28:00.003+05:30

Like A Comet
Blazing 'Cross The Evening Sky
Gone Too Soon

Like A Rainbow
Fading In The Twinkling Of An Eye
Gone Too Soon

Shiny And Sparkly
And Splendidly Bright
Here One Day
Gone One Night

Like The Loss Of Sunlight
On A Cloudy Afternoon
Gone Too Soon

Like A Castle
Built Upon A Sandy Beach
Gone Too Soon

Like A Perfect Flower
That Is Just Beyond Your Reach
Gone Too Soon

Born To Amuse, To Inspire, To Delight
Here One Day
Gone One Night

Like A Sunset
Dying With The Rising Of The Moon
Gone Too Soon

Gone Too Soon

- MJ

Azhikkal Port & Valapattanam River

2009-06-18T19:20:00.003+05:30

Cycle trips - Thayyil Beach, Kannur

2009-06-14T22:09:00.004+05:30

My Cycles

2009-06-14T19:48:00.003+05:30

Cycling is one of the things which I like to do the most - anywhere anytime. My uncle taught me cycling when I was in 3rd standard. Got my first cycle soon - BSA SLR light & sporty - simple good cycle. Hundreds of kilometers of ride, so many falls, more adventures.. Almost all the kids in my area learnt cycling on my cycle..! Wasn't just about riding, all the repairing, patching punctures everything was done by me. Used to build/attach all sorts of electronic gadgets to my cycle. Few were :-

i. Horn - battery powered - with buzzer
ii. Tiny circuits with speaker which plays music when break is applied.
iii. FM radio.

In all my childhood memories, my cycle will be present.

Got my second cycle when I passed 10th standard, and joined Chinmaya Vidyalaya for 11th and 12th. School was 4kms from home. Earlier school was 12kms and inside the town, so my parents wouldn't allow daily cycling to school. But now it was much near, and I was adamant about cycling to school. My parents finally agreed. They also bought me brand new stylish Hercules MTB Top Gear (Ajay Jadeja used to come in its ad at that time!) - a geared cycle - to reduce the riding stress, as the school was on top of a big hill. School, tuitions - everywhere cycle :)

After 12th, joined college in Thrissur. Hostel was very near to college, pretty much walkable distance. First year passed without cycle. I was finding it very uncomfortable. Saithalavi had a cycle. We both used to come to class, riding doubles. Luxury Cars and trendy bikes will be parked in front of the neighboring Electronics and Engineering Department. And in front of our poor Computer Science and Engineering department - we'll have Saithalavi's old cycle and our HOD's weak old Maruti 800 (and it remains there only for a few minutes in the morning and evening).

Finally by the beginning on 5th Semester, I brought my cycle from home. I felt like a king with my cycle back with me. Rest of the Btech life was filled with cycle. Brought the cycle back home after the Btech was over.

Got placed in Chennai. Office was at Alwarpet and I was staying at Triplicane. Distance is Cycle-able. I wanted to bring my cycle from home - but parents objected - "A software engineer going to office in cycle - Kabhi Nahi Ho Saktha". When I told one of my colleagues at Inxs, he also shared the same opinion as my parents. Weird people.

For me cycle is a symbol of freedom - self sufficiency - makes me completely independent. Environment friendly. Provides very good exercise for body. The list goes on.

I don't care what my parents or colleagues or anyone thinks about me coming in cycle - it is a matter of pride for me. But buying a new cycle - felt I would be extravagant - considering my salary at that time and the fact that I already have one at home.

After a year left Inxs and joined Viamentis Technologies. It was a struggle travelling in bus from Kottivakkam to Adyar in 2 buses everyday. Thoughts about cycle starting budding again. Now my CEO comes to office in a stylish blue Pulsar. So cycle for the employee was ok :) Bought a cycle. Then the next few months, Chennai sun tried hard to wear me down - I triumphed always :)

Shifted to Mumbai. Left the cycle in Tessy's able and caring hands. Almost a year in Mumbai. Thought of getting a cycle few times - but the prices - they were ridiculously high - cycle no more seemed a common man's vehicle. Even the simplest ones were costing above 4K. It was against the spirit of Cycle.

Now I am back in Kerala. Its second birth for me and my beloved Hercules top gear. We are once again going places..!

Rahul & Ani in Kannur

2009-06-13T14:10:00.003+05:30

Death brings no loss..

2009-06-13T01:12:00.003+05:30

Each night when darkness turns
Me blind, I think of death,
Understanding it to
be like night fall, just a
temporary phase,which
brings no loss, for what was
here before sun-down will
be here tomorrow when
light shall reveal it. I
shall not lose a thing. Each
little thing shall wait for
me, these trees, these roads,these
songs, these men who call me
beautiful, not seeing
me with eyes but with hands
and even....even...love...

- Kamala Das

The Looking Glass

2009-06-05T18:31:00.003+05:30

Getting a man to love you is easy
Only be honest about your wants as a woman
Stand nude before the glass with him
So that he sees himself the stronger one
And believes it so, and you so much more
Softer,younger,lovelier..
Admit your admiration

- Kamala Das

Martyrs resting at Payyambalam Beach, Kannur

2009-06-04T18:43:00.003+05:30

Bekal fort - With Saithalavi

2009-05-31T22:27:00.003+05:30

Simple natural beauty

2009-05-29T06:44:00.004+05:30

After a night long rain ..

2009-05-21T10:18:00.003+05:30

The Bombay local

2009-05-16T23:20:00.003+05:30

This image on the left - a suburban train in Bombay ('local' as we Mumbaikars call it) symbolises the spirit of Bombay.

During my first days in Bombay, I used to travel in the rush hour from Kharghar in NaviMumbai to Lower Parel, boarding three locals - Kharghar - Kurla (Harbour line), Kurla - Dadar (Central line) and Dadar to Lower Parel (Western line). One morning in Kurla station, before I could get in, the train started. I could get only half way into the compartment. As the train gathered speed, I hung on to the top of the compartment door. I feared I would be pushed out. But someone reassured me - "If they push you out, they will pull you in also, don't worry,yeh mumbai hain".

If you are late for a train in Bombay, hurrying for work or some other emergency, and reach the station just as the train started moving, then just run upto the packed compartments and you will find many hands stretching out to grab you on board. You will be picked up and a little space (very very little) will be made for you on the edge of the open doorway. Rest is upto you. But consider what had happened - the people already packed so tight in the compartment, their dress drenched with sweat, having stood in the badly ventilated compartment for hours, pull you up knowing that you are also late for office or someone is waiting for you also, just like them,who are in the compartment, and will make space for you where none exists to take one more person with them.

When they stretch out the hand to you, they don't know whether you are a Hindu or a Muslim, whether you come from Bombay or Mumbai or Bihar, you live in Malabar Hills or Dharavi.. All they know is that you are also trying to build your life in this city of dreams.. Come on board they will say, we'll adjust.

Look at the hands stretching out of our Bombay locals - this is the true Mumbaikar spirit - humanity at its purest form.

Bombay Duck

2009-05-16T22:57:00.003+05:30

Bombay duck is not 'duck' at all. Its a small, semi-transparent fish called Bummalo that is found in the Arabian Sea off the west coast of India. They can be eaten fresh, but more commonly, they are sun-dried. It is usually eaten having been grilled, baked or shallow fried until crispy and then be crumbled over rice and curries, and is sometimes served as a starter or cocktail snack.

When British introduced the railway system to western India under their Raj, the dry fish started going in wagons to the other parts of India from Bombay. They were marked 'Bombay Dak' meaning 'Bombay mail'. In course of time, 'Bombay Dak' became Bombay Duck.

Jalte hain jiske liye ..

2009-05-15T11:48:00.003+05:30

Jalte hain jiske liye teri aakhon ke diye,
dhoond laya hoon wahi geet main tere liye,
jalte hain ...

dil main rakh lena ise haathon se ye chhute na kahin,
geet nazuk hai mere sheeshe se bhi toote na kahin,
gungunaunga yehi geet main tere liye,
jalte hain ...

jab talak na yeh tere ras ke bhare hontoon se mile,
yunhi awara phirega yeh teri zulfon ke tale,
gaye jaunga yehi geet main tere liye,
jalte hain ..

Mazha

2009-05-14T12:05:00.003+05:30

കറുത്ത മേഘവും ഇടിയും മിന്നലും
വീശി അടിക്കുന്ന തൂവാനവും
ഇടവപ്പാതിയും തുലാവര്‍ഷവും
നനുത്ത കുറെ ഓര്‍മകളും ...

Crazy Athirapilly-Valparai trip

2009-05-13T16:19:00.003+05:30

View athirapily-pollachi trip route in a larger map