100 years of Solitude & The legends of Khasak

Why is Gabriel Garcia Marquez so popular in Kerala?  This was the question asked in a book club meeting which I attended.

This set me thinking. Because it's not only Gaby, but Latin America as a whole which holds a fascination for this small state in South India. We have rabid fans of Argentina and Brazil football teams. Long after his death, Che Guavera holds demi-god status among the left-wing youth. And Latin American literature and movies always have an audience here.

I can only explain this using the word "ethos": the sum total of the culture of a people. Kerala shares with Latin America a curious mix of left-wing activism, rebellious individualism, deep religiosity and aggressive atheism. In fact, our state is a bunch of contradictions just as Latin America is - a land on the verge of collective schizophrenia.

Maybe, magical realism is the only way to map the mind of such a place. We had our first tryst with the genre much before Marquez, by the way: O. V. Vijayan's Khasak (a fictitious land from "Khasakkinte Ithihasam", a Malayalam novel published in 1968, and later translated by the author himself as "The Legends of Khasak") was here much before Macondo. And our writers continue to explore landscapes of the mind.

 

My Way ~ Paul Anka

And now, the end is near

And so I face the final curtain

My friend, I'll say it clear

I'll state my case, of which I'm certain

I've lived a life that's full

I traveled each and every highway

And more, much more than this

I did it my way

Regrets, I've had a few

But then again, too few to mention

I did what I had to do

And saw it through without exemption

I planned each charted course

Each careful step along the byway

And more, much more than this

I did it my way

Yes, there were times, I'm sure you knew

When I bit off more than I could chew

But through it all, when there was doubt

I ate it up and spit it out

I faced it all, and I stood tall

And did it my way

I've loved, I've laughed and cried

I've had my fill, my share of losing

And now, as tears subside

I find it all so amusing

To think I did all that

And may I say, not in a shy way

Oh, no, oh, no, not me

I did it my way

For what is a man, what has he got?

If not himself, then he has naught

To say the things he truly feels

And not the words of one who kneels

The record shows I took the blows

And did it my way

Yes, it was my way

~ Sung by Frank Sinatra in 1969

Mind Master ~ Viswanathan Anand (117 of 2024)

 

Had  Mind Master by Viswanathan Anand with me for quite some time now. With all the news about his students creating history, and making India shine, could not resist myself from making it my next read. The book is  the journey of 'The Lightning Kid' becoming 'The Madras Tiger' . Co-authored with sports journalist Susan Ninan, the book combines personal anecdotes, insights into the world of competitive chess, and life lessons that extend far beyond the 64 squares of the chessboard. The book traces Anand’s journey from his childhood in Chennai, where his love for chess was nurtured, to his rise as a five-time World Chess Champion. Along with it the highlight of the book is:

• Anand’s vivid description of his World Championship matches, particularly against Kramnik, Topalov, and Carlsen.
• His reflections on the psychological warfare in chess, where preparation often extends beyond the board.
• Life lessons that seamlessly intertwine with chess strategies, making the book relevant for professionals, students, and enthusiasts alike.

Anand dedicates his book to his mother by mentioning her at the beginning of the book - For my mother, who told me to always write down my thoughts, good or bad. She said, 'One day you will read them and realize how beautiful they are.' The legend starts his book by mentioning one of his favorite songs - 'Regrets, I've had a few...' by the legendary singer Frank Sinatra.

Regrets, I've had a few

But then again, too few to mention

I did what I had to do

And saw it through without exemption

I planned each charted course

Each careful step along the byway

And more, much more than this

I did it my way

~ Written by Paul Anka

The prologue of the book ends with "Que sera sera, I tell myself, as I sip my tea..."

Anand recounts his early days, from his mother teaching him chess to his meteoric rise in the global arena. His anecdotes about facing legends like Garry Kasparov and Magnus Carlsen offer a fascinating look into the psychological battles of top-level chess

Anand does not shy away from revealing his vulnerability. Yes even World Champions also go through a difficult time as we find Anand mentioning, 'I need to speak to Radek... I can't recall a thing.' So next time you forget a theory or a middle game plan, you are at your wits end, no need to get a cold feet because even the best of the best has also suffered a similar situation. What is the difference maker then? How they come out on top of it despite facing various adversity.

Anand doesn’t shy away from discussing his setbacks, including his loss to Carlsen in 2013. He reveals how he managed self-doubt, learned from failures, and came back stronger—lessons that resonate with anyone striving for success.

One of the most compelling aspects of the book is Anand’s discussion of how he reinvented his game to stay relevant in a constantly evolving chess landscape. He draws parallels to how adaptability is essential in any field.

Behind Anand’s individual brilliance is a story of teamwork. He highlights the crucial role his seconds (chess assistants), family, and friends played in his career. This underscores the importance of collaboration even in seemingly solitary pursuits.

Anand emphasizes the importance of focus, preparation, and maintaining calm under pressure. His methods for staying mentally sharp—be it through meditation, reading, or simple observation—are practical takeaways for readers.

While Mind Master is insightful, readers looking for a detailed breakdown of chess strategies might find it lacking in technical depth. The book focuses more on Anand’s personal journey and life lessons rather than intricate chess analysis. However, this broadens its appeal beyond chess aficionados to a wider audience.

Anand delves into the psychological aspects of chess, discussing how mental preparation and resilience play a critical role in competitive success. He also explores the intense psychological battles that occur off the board, especially during his high-stakes World Championship matches. Anand examines the emotional dynamics of victory, the importance of humility, and how Anand processed and celebrated his wins. When You Lose, Say Less, he says, but find other avenues to vent out. Anand discusses the evolving role of technology in chess, from the early days of computer-assisted training to the current era where artificial intelligence and engines dominate the scene. Anand highlights the importance of collaboration and the role his support system—family, trainers, and seconds—played in his success.

Mind Master is an inspiring read that goes beyond chess. Viswanathan Anand not only shares the highs and lows of his illustrious career but also offers practical wisdom for overcoming challenges, embracing change, and pursuing excellence. Whether you’re a chess enthusiast or simply someone looking for motivation, this book will leave you enriched.

Viswanathan Anand's Mind Master: Winning Lessons from a Champion’s Life is not just an autobiography; it’s a treasure trove of wisdom from one of the greatest chess minds of our time. 

Whether you are a player, coach, parent, chess enthusiast or even a sports fan, there is something for everyone. Anand discusses all his triumph and tragedy, every little and big obstacle he had to face, how he overcame them, what he did when some of them were surmountable, facing practical challenges and much more. This is a gateway to a journey of a prodigy who conquered the world and firmly planted India's flag all over the chess world. 

Here is the concluding message of the 12 chapters in Mind Master: Winning Lessons from a Champion’s Life by Viswanathan Anand:

1. DITCHING THE LADDER - Of gut heart and a winning idea : As a long term strategy, being predictable is not of much advantage - for your career or business or even for yourself. Once in a while, you've got to take the counter-intuitive path, but not without owning responsibility for the consequences - and certainly not without preparation. In such situations, your attitude should trump the decision itself. When you focus on previously unconsidered solutions to reach your end goal, don't' let your mind wallow in indecision or imagined negative outcomes. Instead, push through with execution. 
2. STICKY NOTES - Madras, Manila, Madrid and everything in between - Once you shut out the clamour of the result and simply persevere, success is bound to be yours. Keep making notes. 
3. THE ART OF REMEMBERING - Hooks, Hacks and Serendipity. - Nothing you do however unconnected it is to your livelihood or your life's goal, goes waste. You never know when an idea that you've read about or heard of, or an activity you've dabbled in, will pay off. It's wise, then, to keep your interest and your learning as varied and broad as you can. 
4. WIN SOME, LOSE SOME - Emotions and the power of objectivity - No matter what you may be feeling emotionally being inscrutable at the board is a vital skill. Organise your thoughts, dont make a move when your are in turmoil. 
5. GATHERING THE TROOPS - How to make preparations count and tactics work. That is the key.  Strategy without tool is bound to fall. 
6. NEW YORK, NEW YORK - The making of a champion. - Doing everything admirable well doesn't matter, when you cannot finish the job. Be flexible, unpredictable and stay unaffected by psychological duress. 
7. THE GIFT AND THE GRIT - Making Talent work hard. Talent is like a plant, you need it to water with hard work, for it to grow into a tree. You also need luck for things to come together at the right time. 
8. MINING THE MIND AND MACHINES - Decision-Making, Data and a New Giant on the Block. Be adaptable. Circumstances change and you cant be prepared for everything. Assess the resources at your disposal, weight what is feasible to what is risky. 
9. BONN AGAIN - Finding Beauty in Risk -  A Volcanic Ash Cloud, a Road Trip and a Title - Don't relax when you have to be focused, or celebrate too soon. Having a lead is different from finishing. Be mindful, find calm and keep yourself grounded. Don't be too busy visualising the future success. In interview he said, actually playing is more important than analysing past or other's games. 
10. THE ADVERSITY ADVANTAGE - Resilience is the only answer to adversity. When tough situations arise - and they sometimes arrive like a hailstorm - accept it, tackle it with practicality. Look deep for the resources that will pull you through. 
11. TWO CITIES, ONE STATE - Battling Learned Helplessness -  Life does not raise red flags unprompted. Look for the cues - they will ask you to identify and work on your weaknesses, disallow passivity in your attitude, thought and preparation. It will help pave path to recovery. Success can often lull you into believing in what is non-existent. 
12. STAYING ALIVE - On Today's wins and Tomorrow's Horizons. - Keep learning, new things and fresh ways. For growth and success, unlearning is necessary. 

Each chapter offers a mix of personal anecdotes, chess insights, and life lessons, making the book both an engaging memoir and a guide to achieving success in any field.

Sookshmadarshini

The story revolves around the nosy Priyadarshini, played to perfection by Nazriya. She is sure that there is more to her neighbour Manuel (Basil Joseph excelling in the role of a despicable villain with his usual ease), and his mother who purportedly has Alzheimer's. Priya is sure she has nothing of the sort and there is foul play afoot; and we have "Rear Window" with all the neighborhood women joining in the action.

An enjoyable movie if you don't think about its plausibility!

Two people are travelling in a train. One person puts up a large package on the luggage rack. The other guy asks: "What's in the package?" The first guy replies:"That's a MacGuffin - a device used to catch lions in the Scottish highlands." The second person says: "But there are no lions in the Scottish highlands!" The first person replies: "Well, then there's no MacGuffin!"

This story is one of Alfred Hitchcock's favourites. He uses it to highlight the plot devices in his movies, which have no relevance to the tale other than to push the action forward: once the tale is up and running, the MacGuffin is forgotten. Hitchcock is a self-confessed fan of the device, and he has used it in many of his celebrated movies - 'The 39 Steps', 'Notorious', 'The Foreign Correspondent', etc. Such is his mastery of the medium that the audience don't care.

That the director of the Malayalam suspense movie "Sookshmadarshini" (Microscope) is a Hitchcock fan, I have no doubt. He has created a movie of nail-biting suspense - a literal edge-of-the-seat thriller - with a MacGuffin to end all MacGuffins. Once the movie is on track, the audience will scarce notice what the original premise was. I thoroughly enjoyed the movie, though its concept was so patently silly.

Gukesh & Chess

Dreams come true, when it is backed with hard work, determination, and luck. 

'Gukesh won the world championship because of his attitude' said  Viswanathan Anand. 

D Gukesh’s rise as the youngest world championis a tale with two pieces — one of individual and family sacrifice, and the other of legend Viswanathan Anand’s payback to Indian sport.

It made me look out about him more. World Chess Champion today. He is the son of Dr. Rajinikanth ENT surgeon and Dr. Padma Kumari MD Microbiologist AP in Madras Medical College.

Gukesh’s father, Rajini Kanth, gave up his profession as an ENT surgeon in 2018 to accompany his son to tournaments around the world, and Gukesh’s mother, Padma, a microbiologist at the Madras Medical College, took on the mantle of sole breadwinner. Gukesh stopped going to school when he was in Class 7, turning up only to write exams. Instead of living like a normal teenager, he would be locked in his room for hours — either obsessively playing online or mastering the intricacies through books and historical boards that were memorised and internalised. As his skill grew, he lived out of a suitcase, travelling from one tournament to another while his family ensured they would cut whatever corners they had to so that he got every opportunity to pursue excellence.

A proud moment for them. Instead of running in routine layout, this couple identified the talent of their kid and he is world champion now. What else would a parent expect from his kid??

For Gukesh, it has always been about the process. Sample this from him. “For me, it is always about the process,” he said. “To be the best prepared that I can be. " “I like criticism,” he said when asked if he had seen what Magnus Carlsen had said about him. “It fires me up.” Ahead of the final, he had said to me, “I don't really think about predictions and stuff. I think my job is to go there and play good chess, and if I do that, I believe good things will happen. My focus is entirely on the job at hand and I know I will have to go there and play at my best.”

That’s exactly what he did. When the entire world had called it a draw, Gukesh did not. He kept at it. Having not expected Ding Liren to be a pushover, Viswanath Anand – India’s first chess world champion – said D Gukesh took the crown because of his refusal to accept a draw and keep pushing.Persistence was the key. And the self-belief. With time in hand, he was waiting for Ding Liren to make a mistake. As Anand said, “At times, you need to carry on even if there is not much of a chance.” Gukesh did so, and was rewarded.

He is Someone who could take time out and thank his opponent is good for the sport. In fact, great. That’s what sport is all about, and Gukesh will enrich it further going forward. Gukesh Dommaraju, all of 18 years and eight months old, winning the world championship has to be one of the greatest achievements in the history of Indian sport.

 https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1BQQ56sMN2/ https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1BQQ56Rahttps://www.facebook.com/share/15iMfF3qP1/

 https://www.facebook.com/share/15iMfF3qP1/

The final game

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1AZESRZcqz/

The WestBridge Anand Chess Academy, which was started in December 2020, is striving to fulfil Anand’s dream of converting GMs to Super GMs.Gukesh (Elo 2783, world No 5), India’s current highest-rated player Arjun Erigaisi (2801, world No 4), R Praggnanandhaa (2737, world No 17), and Nihal Sarin (2676, world No 49).

If ever an example was needed of someone giving back to Indian sport, it is Anand. 

He has enabled India to be the world’s powerhouse in chess — the open and women’s Olympiad champion, and now the home of the reigning world champion.

 He could not control his laugh in the last couple of minutes. He was so nice that he walked elsewhere to laugh and not on Ding's face..ജയിച്ചത് ഇന്ത്യക്കാരൻ. തോറ്റത് ചൈനക്കാരൻ. അവർക്ക് രണ്ടുപേർക്കും പ്രശ്നമില്ല. പ്രശ്നം റഷ്യക്കാരന്!

1. Steinitz 2. Lasker 3. Capablanca 4. Alekhine 5. Euwe 6. Botvinnik 7. Smyslov 8. Tal 9. Petrosian 10. Spassky 11. Fischer 12. Karpov 13. Kasparov 14. Kramnik 15. Anand 16. Magnus 17. Ding 18. Gukesh

Behind most great success, there is a team and here is his:

One of the intriguing things about the World Chess Championship match is always the seconds working for each player. After becoming the 18th World Champion, D Gukesh revealed his team of seconds! They are:

GM Grzegorz Gajewski (Poland)

GM Radoslaw Wojtaszek (Poland), 

GM  Pentala Harikrishna (India)

GM Vincent Keymer (Germany)

GM Jan-Krzysztof Duda (Poland)

GM Viswanathan Anand (India)

IM Jan Klimkowski (Poland)

Paddy Upton (Mental coach, South Africa)

During the Candidates, IM Jan Klimkowski was helping Gajewski. Vishy Anand was not officially part of the seconds team. However, Gukesh mentioned that he attended and helped remotely during one of the  training sessions!

A big congratulations to the whole team who ably supported Gukesh in his journey to becoming the World Champion!

The New Boss. Wins from a drawn position. Luck is when opportunity meets preparation. Enormous day.

He through Jisha introduced me to our female chess grandmasters.

Earlier Anish Sarkar was in limelight for his play as three year old, and seeing this picture,  took for granted that she was his mother. I was not aware, she was India's most notable female chess grandmaster is Koneru Humpy. She earned the Grandmaster title in 2002 at the age of 15, making her the youngest woman to achieve this distinction at the time.

Key Highlights of Koneru Humpy's Career:

World Rapid Chess Champion (2019): Humpy won the Women's World Rapid Chess Championship, showcasing her exceptional skill in faster time controls.

Multiple Gold Medals: She has represented India in numerous international tournaments, including the Chess Olympiad and the Asian Games, winning several medals.

FIDE Rating: Humpy consistently ranks among the top female players globally.

Pioneering Achievement: She broke barriers for Indian women in chess, inspiring a new generation of female players.

Other notable female chess players from India include Harika Dronavalli, a multiple-time Women's World Chess Championship medalist, and Tania Sachdev, an International Master and Woman Grandmaster known for her achievements and chess commentary.

Hope better years are ahead for Indian chess players.

Eating India ~ Chitrita Banerji (116 of 2024)

In Eating India, Chitrita Banerji takes us on a thrilling journey through a nation’s food formed by generations of arrivals, assimilations and conquests. In mouth-watering prose, she explores how each wave of newcomers brought innovative new ways to combine the subcontinent’s rich native spices with the vegetables, fish, grains and pulses that are the staples of the Indian kitchen. Along the way she visits traditional weddings, tiffin rooms, city markets, roadside cafes and tribal villages to find out how India’s turbulent history has shaped its people and its cuisine.

Eating India: An Odyssey into the Food and Culture of the Land of Spices by Chitrita Banerji is a captivating exploration of India’s culinary landscape, interwoven with its cultural, historical, and social fabric. Banerji’s work is more than just a chronicle of recipes and ingredients; it’s a heartfelt journey that delves into the soul of Indian cuisine.

A Journey Through Regions and Cultures

Banerji takes the reader across the length and breadth of India, from the bustling streets of Delhi to the serene landscapes of Kerala. Each chapter unfolds the unique culinary traditions of a region, influenced by its geography, history, and diverse communities. She expertly ties food to identity, whether it’s the distinct cuisines of the Parsi, Anglo-Indian, or Jewish communities, or the royal kitchens of Lucknow and Hyderabad.

History Served on a Platter

What sets Eating India apart is Banerji’s ability to weave historical narratives into her culinary exploration. She discusses the influence of colonizers like the British, Portuguese, and Mughals, as well as ancient trade links that brought spices to Indian shores. Her reflections on how these interactions shaped Indian cuisine offer a nuanced understanding of its evolution.

Personal Reflections and Sensory Descriptions

Banerji’s prose is both evocative and intimate. Her personal anecdotes, such as rediscovering childhood flavors or reflecting on her Bengali heritage, bring warmth and authenticity to the narrative. Her vivid descriptions make the flavors, aromas, and textures almost tangible, transporting readers into India’s vibrant kitchens and bustling markets.

A Celebration of Diversity

The book celebrates India’s diversity, not just in terms of food but also the stories of people who preserve culinary traditions. Banerji highlights the role of food in rituals, festivals, and daily life, emphasizing how it bridges gaps between communities and generations.

While the book is richly detailed, readers unfamiliar with Indian cuisine might find some references or regional specifics challenging to grasp without prior context. Additionally, the narrative occasionally meanders, which might feel digressive to some.

Whether you're a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, Eating India offers a feast for the mind and soul, leaving you hungry for more—both on the plate and on the page.

The book covers:

• Bengal: Land of a Thousand Rivers: Exploring the rich culinary heritage of Bengal, influenced by its rivers and abundant resources.
• In Pursuit of the Portuguese: From Bengal to Goa: Tracing the Portuguese influence on Indian cuisine, particularly in Goa and Bengal.
• Road Food on the Highway: Delving into the diverse street foods and roadside eateries across India.
• A Southern Thali in Karnataka: Examining the traditional multi-course meals of Karnataka and their cultural significance.
• The Anglo-Indian Table: Investigating the fusion cuisine that emerged during British colonial rule.
• Pilgrimage and Pageantry in Amritsar: Highlighting the culinary traditions associated with religious practices in Amritsar.
• Banquets of the Imperial Palace—Muslim Style: Discussing the opulent Mughal culinary traditions.
• Benaras: Feasting and Fasting in Shiva’s City: Exploring the unique food customs in the holy city of Varanasi.
• Art and Texture on the Gujarati Platter: Focusing on the vegetarian delicacies of Gujarat.
• Bombay: City by the Sea: Looking into the cosmopolitan food culture of Mumbai.
• Kerala: Rich Cuisines of the Pepper Kingdom: Delving into the spice-rich cuisine of Kerala.
• The Vanishing Jews of India: Exploring the culinary contributions of India's Jewish communities.
• The Indigenous Pot: Discussing traditional cooking methods and utensils.
• Saffron Desires: Examining the use of saffron in Indian cuisine.

Cosmic Rendezvours

An amazing voyage to the end of infinity it was from 29th November to 1st December. 

The vast expanse of the universe encompasses countless galaxies, stars, planets, and cosmic phenomena, stretching beyond the limits of our observable horizon. The ever-growing stellar realm hasoften left one in wonder. Man's quest into the unknown frontiers has unravelled mysteries and opened the

doors to advancements and a better understanding ofthe cosmos. The future holds endless possibilities for young minds who are willing to learn, absorb and act.

Vidyodaya AnnualInterschool Camp2024 is dedicated to the vibrant and aspiring innovators of the future, aiming to foster the spirit of curiosity, creativity and exploration. This voyage into the edge of infinity shall endeavour to inspire and ignite

the passion and imagination of the tender minds. We welcome all to this cosmic journey where creativity and exploration willgo hand in hand and enable the erudite minds of the future to delve into the wonders of this marvellous universe.

 

Sparkling and stunning to our naked eyes, behold high above, the lofty and enchanting space, studded with dazzling celestial bodies. Infinity, thy glory lies unfathomed. Yet your depth we delve soaring on the wings of our imagination. Hand in hand we rejoice and revel in thy glory and mystery. 

Ending another year....

 We are coming to the end of another unique year.

You have a couple of weeks left,

to let it all go.

Let go of worry, what will be will be.

Let go of regret, what’s done is done.

Let go of anger, it’s prolonging your pain.

Let it all go and make way.

You cant reach for the new, if your arms are full of yesterday’s baggage.

We can’t go back, my friends, but we can move on, lightly, without that load.

So...

Let it all go, set it all down.

It’s dragging you back.

And you're not going back,

You’re going forward.

So go forward, with peace.

You did what you did,

life gave what it gave, 

and we are who we are.

March on… 

Love first.

~Donna Ashworth

Art by. 🎨 _hilllo

Early Indians: The Story of Our Ancestors and Where We Came From ~ Tony Joseph (115 of 2024)

 

Early Indians: The Story of Our Ancestors and Where We Came From is a 2018 nonfiction book written by Indian journalist Tony Joseph. His question was how did Harappan vanish? This made him want to know who they were, which made him think when the agriculture started and when did people come to inhabit in India?  So he went back to 65 thousand years before. 

The book relies on research findings from six major disciplines: history, archaeology, linguistics, population genetics, philology, and epigraphy, and includes path-breaking ancient DNA research of recent years. Each of them having a different story, and different starting point, because of different starting point. Example archaeology look at tools, while genetics look at modern human. By then people living during the time we find archaeology would have been wiped out. 

The book discusses four prehistoric migrations in India. The first Indian's Out of Africa. the first farmers, the first urbanites - Harappa's and The last migrants The Arya's.

70000 years ago few hundred of Africa migrated out of Africa into the Arabian Peninsula, and they reached America around 16000 years ago defined by Climatic change. 

Then when people started experimenting with Agriculture, not all were successful, Egypt Mesopotamia, India and China were lucky as they have wide variety of cereals to domesticate and they became farmers from hunter gatherers. There is a population explosion leading to migration, that leads to population concentration changing the demographic of the world with mastery of nature. It happened from West Asia and East Asia. 

According to Joseph, Proto-Dravidian is related to the Elamitic language of Iran. Mastery of mobility with wheels, metals, from Central Asia moved to Europe and Asia, spreading Indo - European language. 

All existing population are a mixture of previous migrations,  which again is a mixture of previous migrations and so on. 

Colonial migration, when people started moving in large numbers. It has virtually no impact on India. It mentions that "Aryan" culture was most likely the result of interaction, adoption, and adaptation among those who brought Indo-European languages to India and those who were already well-settled inhabitants of the region, and that Sanskrit and the Vedas developed in the Indian subcontinent.

By integrating diverse strands of evidence, Joseph provides a nuanced understanding of the complex migrations and interactions that have shaped the genetic and cultural landscape of the Indian subcontinent. 2000 years ago, Endogamy was in place. We all have common ancestor, cast system came into place 2000 years ago. 

5th class of major migration today - difference in population growth and economic prosperity. This is related to climate as climate change can effect economic prosperity. We have to wait and see if it will change the world demographic. 

Where reason and logic can't reach art can. We are all Indian's and we are all migrant's. 

Ayyapan , Shastavu, Kuttichathan, Shabrimala

 8th year and what a connection to begin this day with the discussion. 

Valsa Kumar N Menon asks: ശബരി മലയിലെ പ്രതിഷ്ഠ ധർമ്മ ശാസ്താവോ അയ്യപ്പനോ? 

Who is worshipped at Shabrimala? Ayyapan or Dharma Shastav?

To which my response was Ayyapan, Dharma Shasta, Manikandan all are one. Dharma. Shasta means one who protects Dharma

Generally younger  is called Ayyapa and older is Dharma Shasta.

And then comes the detailed explanation from Sasidharan T 

The King of Pandalam found a baby in the forest with a 'mani' around his neck, adopted him as he was childless and called him 'Ayyapan' and 'Manikandan'. As the child grew up, the queen had her own child and with the intention of getting rid of Ayyapan asked him to bring tigers milk from forest. 

The kid fulfilling his duties enroute  returned sitting on a 🐅 tiger. Everybody in the court/palace was scared. Then he said it was time for him to return.  People became sad and pleaded that he stay back. He told them not to worry,  those interested can meet him where the temple of Dharma Shastav was. 

Ayyapa is believed to be the reincarnation of Dharma Shasta, the son of Shiva and Vishnu in   form of Mohini.  That is where Shabrimala is believed to be. 

And the book recommendation. Thank You Ajitha Ravindran Menon

Let me know your thoughts please.

#Ayyapan #Ayyapa #Shabrimala #shastav #Manikandan

Harassment

 Harassment is any:

~ uninvited, unwelcome behaviour

~ which has the purpose

~ Or unintentional effect

~ of violating someone's dignity

~ of creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment

~ for anyone

Harassments is unlawful if it is linked to a protected characteristic. If not linked to a protected characteristic it is still bullying which is a serious breach of our policy and is unlawful. 

Protected Characteristics are:

• Sex
• Race (Rationality, Color, Origin)
• Gender reassignment
• Sexual Orientation
• Age
• Disability
• Religion or belief (including philosophical belief)
• Marriage or Civil Partnership
• Pregnancy & maternity

There are many examples on what could constitute harrasments:

Misconception:

• One of act may not be an issue - A single act may lead to liability to both
• Incident outside workplace cannot be considered
• Only employees can bring claims

Different people have different tolerance to acceptable behaviour. 

It need not be aimed to a particular person, anyone witnessing can also bring a claim. 

Dismissal without notice can be given. 

Career damage and criminal record can be filed. 

One persons banter can be considered as another persons discriminatory treatment. 

New legal duty to prevent sexual harassment.  26 oct. 24, new law, - Prevent. 

New duty manager need to take preventive measures. 

Code of conduct and Respect at work policy. 

If you find cases:

• Report to line manager
• Submit a grievance
• Raise a speak up complain unanimously. 

Mere Dholna Sun 4.0 Full Version

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lsdF9BU6RFs

Nigam- Core of Pain

Ghoshal- Recovery of Pain

Singh- Not showing inside pain 

Sreekumar- Enjoying with everyone and not letting anyone know.

Adee S. KULKARNI Ji, great job. 

These are main 4 sources of expressing pain that most of the students have.... Still dealing forever....

Masterpiece. Perfectly synchronised and bliss to mind. Tribute to Indian classical music compositions.

Adee S. KULKARNI's answer to the people who say lyrics dont make any sense:

Shreya - Do Dilon Ki Ye Prem Kahani

Le Aayi Dekho Kahan

Sonu - Duniyadaari se hoshiyaari se

Main toh anjaan thaa

Lagi chot aisi mere bhole dil pe

Bikhar saa gaya toot ke

Shreya - Juda Ab Naa Hoge Karo Ham Se Wada

Mera Sathh Na Chhodna

Tumhe Aaj Payenge

Ya Maar Hi Jayenge

Ye Khwab Na Todna

Mere dholna Sun...

This story of love captures both innocence and deep commitment. Shreya’s lines, "Do Dilon Ki Ye Prem Kahani," hint at a love that has brought them to a powerful and unexpected moment. Sonu’s reflection, "Duniyadaari se hoshiyaari se, main toh anjaan tha," suggests he was untouched by worldly complexities, innocent in his ways, until love struck him so intensely, it left him "bikhar saa gaya toot ke," shattered and transformed.

In response, Shreya’s promise, "Juda ab naa hoge, karo ham se wada," reflects her unshakable loyalty. She asks him to vow that they’ll never part, saying, "Mera saath na chhodna," pledging a love that’s willing to either fulfill the dream—"ye khwab na todna"—or die trying.

The refrain, "Mere dholna sun," is a passionate call, asking him to hear the depth of her love, making this a timeless vow of devotion.

Sonu - Aadha adhura tha badan ye mera

Ek gark thaaa

Jo ghar thaa meri jannat

Ek nark thaaa

Shreya - Tu Jo Nhi To Mera Yeh Man Hai

Banjar Zameen

Sookhi Ret Jaisi Hoon Main

Tu Hai Nami

Sonu - Ye takht-o-taaj sb tereMain toh jala ke chhodungaZinda bachega naa koiSabko mitaa ke chhodunga

Ye jism khatm hota haiYe rooh toh nahi martiChahein koi sitamgar hoYe rooh toh nahi darti

These lyrics dive into love that brings both deep yearning and fierce intensity. Sonu’s part expresses the feeling of being incomplete—"Aadha adhura tha badan ye mera" (my body was half-empty) and trapped in a life that felt like "nark" (hell) despite being once considered his "jannat" (paradise). His pain transforms into an almost destructive resolve: "Main toh jala ke chhodunga...sabko mitaa ke chhodunga," willing to burn away everything in his path, showing the fierce strength love can unleash.

Shreya’s part reflects how hollow her life feels without him, as though her heart has become a "banjar zameen" (barren land). She compares herself to "sookhi ret" (dry sand) without him, while he is the "nami" (moisture) that brings life. Her love for him is essential, like water in the desert.

Finally, Sonu’s closing lines, "Ye jism khatm hota hai, ye rooh toh nahi marti," bring a powerful sense of resilience, suggesting that while the body is mortal, the soul and its courage are eternal and undying. Even if faced with suffering ("sitamgar ho"), the soul remains fearless, making their love feel immortal and unbreakable.

Amazing, touching, divine. 

Death : Let Go

 'UNANGUVAN VALAREYERE SAMAYAM EDUKKUNNA MURIVUKALIL VALIYORENNAM !!!!!!' A wound that takes long to heal. Fact is it never heals. Life grow around it. 

Bagavat gita chap 2 slogam 22 says - 'Just as a man casts off his worn out clothes and puts on new ones, so also the embodied self casts off its worn out bodies and enters others which are new'; and 19th say 'He who takes the Self to be the slayer and he who thinks he is slain, neithet of them knows. He slays not, nor is He slain'.

Here he is, between his favourate 'Kaya' Raw Banana and 'Chena' Yam, planted by him.

Death is the fact and the only reality of life. True every thing in life comes with an expiry date. We, our loved ones, our job, goals, ambition. 

But who determines the expiry date? (Not just that of our dreams as was the question in the Manju Warrier's come back movie 'How old are you?')

Covid did bring us to face many untimely death in a blow, I did lose my shoulders to lean on in the last decade. But this year was different.  Every month could witness the death of someone close and dear. 

The last from my grandmother's generation her only surviving sister who was bedridden for long  made me realize there was a time for death. An uncle who gave my sister her name was bedridden for more than nine months since the beginning of this year and now is no more. News of my colleague passing away, whom we used to call Akshay Khanna for his dashing look, is a shock. Just in mid forties, what would be plight of the family?

My father's dear friend and colleague, who was there for us, for everything, irrespective of our asking or informing. When I first got my job and moved to this side, on the day of joining hostel, even before we reached, he was there. Those were the days of no mobile phone, I wonder how he knew. Unlike for his family lineage,  like my father he too is gone a little too soon for the illness that caught him and aged him sooner.

The process of dying is natural and follows several steps. You might be curious about what will happen to your body after you die or you might prefer not to think about it. 

Memories lingers and there is a void. The pain is there to stay. Only that other things in life is built around it and life goes on. For us until one day we too are gone, but still the process will continue.

 Natural death is one thing, but why do someone take away their own precious life, an invaluable gift. How can one do that when they have seen their own child go through it and the family plight then? Depression,  Drinks and Drugs are deadly combination. 

 Natural death can be sudden due to natural cause like heart attack, accident or one may be bedridden for a considerable period of time. Given a choice though I would like to slip into death at the blink of an eyelid, I know to those around it would be a shock. Being bedridden give time to those around to come to terms and adjust to the fact better. Nevertheless the void is a void. One uncle after being bedridden for couple of years bid good bye this year. Though it was tough and sad to see a healthy man bedridden,  he not being around has changed the course of his family.

 Death is one thing that, I don't want to think about, but always come to my mind and now with every ticking of the clock, I think of it more often. Thanks to socialmedia, newspapers and the mushrooming war every where that take away so many innocent lives. As human beings can we not work towars and pray for PEACE?

Magical Dubai Dairies

Finally it was dream come true, waiting for Dubai visa, having got the tickets for 22nd to 27th November irrespective of anxiety creating health issue.  Thomas Cook guide was Mhmdminhaj Kt 8157024156 Mhmdminhaj.Kt@thomascook.in

 The queue for baggage claim was long on landing Dubai on 22nd November. The setup in Dubai is different. 

City welcomes you with Dubai Gate plated in gold.

As you offboard at Dubai, you do not get any specific vibe, it feels like any other city.

Stay was at Hotel Howard Johnson by Wyndham

Day 1  was the arrival and rest, with actual travel to start the next day the 24th was feeling lazy so did not go out. 

Also had to wait for the phone call from travel agent too. the places around were :

Though reached late noon did not have lunch, items all looked expensive India wise 😂 and it was odd timing  to eat, had biscuits and Britannia cake slice from home. The tour agency  did not suggest any restaurants as promised. 

Temperature outside was said to be 30° but travel in AC and room AC was pretty cool 👌🏻 and good.

Finally came the message:

"Tomorrow morning please have your breakfast between 7AM till 8:20 AM and be ready in the ground floor lobby for our sightseeing which will begin at 8:30 AM sharp and we have to depart with our guides .

Please be on time, Tomorrow we will get information about the city and do a part of our city tour with guides have a photostop at Zabeel Palace , and visit Burj Khalifa in the Dubai Mall, go to Gold Souk ( Carry copy of passport in phone if you have to buy some gold) and evening will be in Global Village . Lunch and dinner will be in an Indian restaurant.

Make a small bag of essentials that you may need for the day as we will get out after breakfast and come back post dinner to the hotel."

That was not an exciting message, vibe was missing. 

Dinner was yummy.

There were 54 ppl on trip. 🙆🏻‍♀️  clubbed with sotc. Thomas Cook initial group had only 20. 

Breakfast first day of actual trip, the 23rd was  Indian.

First look started giving vibes. 😂 

Burj Khalifa 

It was for just 1 hr ..just enough time to go up and down and get quick pics

So the priority list was ticked off.

Then visited Gold Souk was there for  2 hrs!

Some families were buying gold. After going around had to sit waiting on a bench as it was too hot outside. Felt like Gold souk was not required. 

Global village was 👌🏻 starting only around  5 pm. A larger version of the Kolkata park.  There was so much to explore and maybe shop and eat too. Tried that Turkey ice cream. Wo jo kalipichu kalipichu tharane. 😂 ice cream was like any other normal one  ..but experienced the turkey way. 😂

Had  dinner and reached back to the room.

In  Coach one aged lady sat with me. Her daughter and her friend sat behind. 

Was always stuck with the Bengali family,  but missed the important one. They had gone to see the night view of burj and fountain at night after dinner. Should have gone with them. What a view they had captured . 

24/11, plan was the frame, limo ride , monorail to palm Jumairah in limo batch of 20  so maybe 3 batches. Limousine is big  limo

There was  one big event around then, Dubai run, Early morning entire shake Zayed road will be full of crowed. It's a vibe one time experience. So expecting road blocks.

On 24th  started at 9;30 with limo.

 Limousine Ride though done before was interesting, it was a vehicle for 20. But yes got breakfast from hotel.

Local guide Ali gave the Souvenirs at the restaurant. 

 Then frame, palm and one yacht cruise in the evening .

Dubai frame's sykwalk was amazing. It's 48 floors up... so dont worry  😂 you can wear anything and walk.

Then yacht cruise 🛳

Night life 👌👌 We had two yacht with unlimited drinks - soft drinks and beer. 

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Skyline from harbour.

 First day covered, half day City tour of Dubai with Gold and Spice Souk, Burj Khalifa 124th floor (non-prime slot), Free time to explore Dubai Mall and Global Village.

Our group was

Skyscrapers are similar everywhere..  I too got the same Singapore feel. Yacht view is the same but if done at night...its a diff feel. 

Museum of the future day and night view

Day 2 visited Dubai Frame, Experience the Yacht Ride on Dubai Marina, View at the Palm, One way Monorail to the Plam

25th Miracle Garden

Soothe ur eyes for some time 😊

Jisha + Jose = Joshi , got a new name 

Desert safari... is a rough sand bashing . Want to experience this . For ppl with heart and spine issues they take slow trip.

Desert safari is batch of 6-7. He said ppl can either setup their own batch else he will allocate. Bengali Couple already counted me in in their batch 😂

Finally we could do the Desert Safari – dune bashing 

Followed by the BBQ dinner

On the way to desert safari . But typical Indians. One argument over for seats on vehicle. That Mumbai two friends and aunty... typical Mumbai smart!..jam ke behas with these bengali Couple 🤷🏻‍♀️

Behas went on escalation 😂😂 Result everyone waiting,  They both won 50-50.

As promised bag of gifts was given.

Next day was Abudabi, did not go. Stayed back in hotel to visit friends and relatives. 

Finally could get the night view of Burj too. 

My checklist was burj, palm view, desert safari and fountain bonus. Am done. Lesson learned was better to arrange for a local tour, than with a tour guide.  Got chocolates , dates and souvenirs. 

Final return was on 27th. Thanks to Susan, halted at her home and left to Alappuzha the next day with a heavy bag and lot of sweet memories. 

Package Highlights that were ticked off are  Limo Ride and 3 Lunch, One-way Monorail to The Palm, Visit Dubai Frame, Free flow of soft drinks and beer on yatch, 1 Gift Box - 8 Souvenirs of UAE 

Personal best and highlight was Night burj, and night yacht cruise and desert View...

All set for the next trip......