tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77368085964303054252024-02-22T10:50:30.913-08:00PranavaBrinda and Poorna...Brinda http://www.blogger.com/profile/09206830180128951222noreply@blogger.comBlogger14125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7736808596430305425.post-85417529170423733022010-08-27T08:35:00.000-07:002010-08-27T18:57:20.744-07:00LADAKH DIARY 3 - JOURNEY TO THE TOP OF THE WORLD !!!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI1sA1GjObiRWks-Fm1ndrESEpxW073qd8IdVHFzxHZX2GxbaxyeeVSQ0BGyc8vV4lD2CrPaojPBkuNIMUUI2qvh53w5XySSMRJpF4CoLLtilrxPR29jAfNttmGah_sa_e7tcfd0Ryz4Sg/s1600/DSC00216.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI1sA1GjObiRWks-Fm1ndrESEpxW073qd8IdVHFzxHZX2GxbaxyeeVSQ0BGyc8vV4lD2CrPaojPBkuNIMUUI2qvh53w5XySSMRJpF4CoLLtilrxPR29jAfNttmGah_sa_e7tcfd0Ryz4Sg/s320/DSC00216.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510271355270706738" /></a><br /><br />After a hectic gompa hopping in Leh – similar to beach hopping in Goa and pandal hopping during Durga pooja in Calcutta :-) - we were getting ready for the journey of our life to the highest motorable pass in the world – Khardung La ( La in Tibetan means “Mountain pass”). Zigmet – our driver – was to come at 8 AM and we were ready after a quick breakfast of cereal and omelette. <br /><br />The road to Khardung La was a steep climb. It is at a short distance from Leh and hence the climb is steep as you climb from 11,000 feet to 18,500 feet. The road is excellent as the Border roads organisation maintains this diligently. Khardung La is an important army base as the troops and supplies to Siachin is routed through this pass. <br /><br />A steady climb over winding road gave us a panoramic view of Leh town below with Stok Kangri peak in the back ground. A stream below had created lush green fields with houses around it. I am not sure of the fate of these houses after the floods. An isolated gompa on a small hill provided an enchanting picture as we climbed up. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Iy7X0SC2_YhOZCJakDanUGRqFkIYY31iKOYajpwV7ihA7WvmpE13mFS9DAL94AmIyBZXAsZ7M32xifW7LCSXE6xf7nkaT45t7n5tlqqmaq2sHEp9Txa2sUQ2MWIkX7UiNDi76OSx0Tri/s1600/DSC00211.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Iy7X0SC2_YhOZCJakDanUGRqFkIYY31iKOYajpwV7ihA7WvmpE13mFS9DAL94AmIyBZXAsZ7M32xifW7LCSXE6xf7nkaT45t7n5tlqqmaq2sHEp9Txa2sUQ2MWIkX7UiNDi76OSx0Tri/s320/DSC00211.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510273523023348290" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />The road condition started to worsen and the last few KMs were really bad. We asked the border roads team about this and they said that this stretch was avalanche prone during winter! We could see tonnes of snow on either sides of the road and could well imagine the scene during winter!<br /><br />As we came closer to the pass, the dark brown terrain suddenly gave way to a mix and match of snow and brown. On reaching Khardung La, all we could see around us was snow! Hurray! We were on top of the world! On the highest motorable road in the world! <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcYWqwcfUaXIRedxA69Vqm7GeMIRELveGBjorKBJYIFs94j2bPgtKWqtktFMl9exK04QZL6MRbk1BD2z4eOti_YQLiSScV6K3edDLhjVjNxbqecopecgD1wKcZHBKtkO3HxfcJfcnTtWMf/s1600/DSC00220.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 226px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcYWqwcfUaXIRedxA69Vqm7GeMIRELveGBjorKBJYIFs94j2bPgtKWqtktFMl9exK04QZL6MRbk1BD2z4eOti_YQLiSScV6K3edDLhjVjNxbqecopecgD1wKcZHBKtkO3HxfcJfcnTtWMf/s320/DSC00220.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510272850054903762" /></a><br /><br />We could not stay there for more than 10 minutes. The rarified atmosphere really hits you hard. You feel tired after few steps. Hats off to the armed forces personnel who not only stay here but work in these hostile environs. The road then descends into Nubra valley, which we could not visit. Nubra is supposed to be the place where you find sand dunes and two humped camels. It is also called as “Valley of flowers”. Possibly we will do that in next visit. <br /><br />The drive though short provided us the glimpse what mountaineers undergo when they climb those heights. Snow, wind, lack of oxygen makes life miserable at these heights. The drive back was again comfortable and we were back in the evening to our hotel.Brinda http://www.blogger.com/profile/09206830180128951222noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7736808596430305425.post-51662000540847366042010-08-15T06:01:00.000-07:002010-08-15T06:35:25.208-07:00Ladakh Diary 2 – Sights of a Mountain Town<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfD6E9QdreqoRqEXmdJrOGaWetFsPObIx3w9asoNuIXIKcXImzuAGIepLRrjts9UL4eDdixqmGtrDLfTw_8l52VTiiIXjSYu_OJSsqtReukXJA3JcjkMudSNcXcg7m7i5mYccgD6AvNUdU/s1600/DSC00175.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505626860687064738" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfD6E9QdreqoRqEXmdJrOGaWetFsPObIx3w9asoNuIXIKcXImzuAGIepLRrjts9UL4eDdixqmGtrDLfTw_8l52VTiiIXjSYu_OJSsqtReukXJA3JcjkMudSNcXcg7m7i5mYccgD6AvNUdU/s320/DSC00175.JPG" border="0" /></a>We got up late in the morning. We needed this sleep badly! After suffering sleepless night in Sarchu – blame it on AMS – we had a refreshing slumber. But the problem started after we got up. I am fond of good filter coffee. So is Brinda. To some extent you can say I am little fussy with my coffee. It has to be perfect. But, where can we get this here? I somehow agreed for the compromise. Opted for Nescafe instead of “Chai” as we were not sure how the “chai” would have tasted. When I called up room service the “Kancha” – all the waiters being Nepali - confirmed that they can serve Nescafe. We heaved a sigh of relief. The instruction to “Kancha” was clear – to get hot boiling milk, Nescafe and Sugar separately! I could not trust the skills of these guys in coffee making.<br />Previous day, Deleks, our Man Friday from Ladakh Safari had confirmed that we should take things leisurely till we get properly acclimatized in Leh. Drink lot of water, he said as we saw him off in the evening with confirmation that the cab to take us around the Leh would be at hotel at 10 AM.<br />Coffee kick started the day for us. Hotel Namgyal Palace - where we stayed - is a new hotel in Leh with good and spacious rooms. Not a “Star” hotel but a decent hotel with good sheets, towels and excellent service. The room had French windows which gave a glimpse of the colorful garden. The many flowers which I found difficult to grow in my house in Bangalore were growing as if it was wilderness!<br />The breakfast was light - a cup of serial and two toasts. We wanted to keep it light as it was first day and we did not want to take chance. The packed lunch was already in the car. We could feel the rarified Leh atmosphere with less oxygen as we climbed ten steps to reach the parking. We were already feeling tired.<br />Zigmet, our driver was a young bloke. A ladakhi who stayed in his village 15 Kms from Leh. We got into the Innova to start our tour of Mountain town.<br />Leh is a small town. A big valley town on the banks of Indus and surrounded by mountains. It could be as big as a small suburb in a Metro. What immediately struck me was the cleanliness on the roads. The roads were spic and span and we could hardly see any rubbish. Ladakhis are generally very friendly and are able o converse in Hindi quite well. We started with Stok palace <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Hw6ajF4bsEgKFK8-yZgVVWpvaPRbzh845pnALvEVjRdTLtegiIiYi6WlgjZbF5JXFlyYww16O74aYAhavaWJzjuWbt_7lJcmALpgxUq8f_og8q6GVDR4SXJzQtYFViw1wpSG_1PvzHLT/s1600/DSC00224.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505628237980337314" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Hw6ajF4bsEgKFK8-yZgVVWpvaPRbzh845pnALvEVjRdTLtegiIiYi6WlgjZbF5JXFlyYww16O74aYAhavaWJzjuWbt_7lJcmALpgxUq8f_og8q6GVDR4SXJzQtYFViw1wpSG_1PvzHLT/s320/DSC00224.JPG" border="0" /></a>located off the Leh – Manali road. The sun was bright and was playing hide and seek with the clouds. The mountains were bright with the tallest peak in Ladakh range – Stok Kongri (the tallest peak in the pic) - basking in glory. It was a pleasant drive to the palace. The road side is interspersed with white “chortems” of all sizes and huge prayer wheels. We halted to take pictures of beautiful chortems built by Dalai Lama. As we exited the Leh town, we were now driving through fauji area. Army and Paramilitary forces have a huge presence in Leh.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRTumqjgclNHF_0_LdnuBGLh-C6e_nr9xInK0aLA2tMqfPu7FHIDtCSmSAhDDPjkmi523y8eJdnNByrsDLMo7zQJMoJxlK4bkFT34l4R1FT_Dk_WT-xJcdDKMPAbNthnaYKWZtI2nHMkT4/s1600/3+LEH+PALACE.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505624569825181218" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRTumqjgclNHF_0_LdnuBGLh-C6e_nr9xInK0aLA2tMqfPu7FHIDtCSmSAhDDPjkmi523y8eJdnNByrsDLMo7zQJMoJxlK4bkFT34l4R1FT_Dk_WT-xJcdDKMPAbNthnaYKWZtI2nHMkT4/s320/3+LEH+PALACE.JPG" border="0" /></a>The Stok palace is on a small hillock overlooking a green valley next to Indus River. The setting of the palace is very romantic. The mountains as back drop, the river in the fore ground with green fields with a dash of yellow in between. A slow climb – no exertion pls J - of few steps led us to the entrance of the palace. This is the palace where present maharajah and his family stay. A four storied mud structure, it had a colorful and carved entrance. The windows were colorful as well. Not an architectural rave, it made up as a pleasant place. The palace has a museum which is not worth its salt. The balconies of the palace provide you a panoramic view of Indus valley.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjILE4FgblZpMJRmgGHFPRYKVEtPTJ9MMgQXGcbFxcExDHvten78fAX1N-1RetKA6Y20kF_TXWV3EotLFDnLJhcN9_I-fD3Yj-1PJ1CK1w0umYSD8j78Xc3Z_dmVD2Pzto2zB4JjL_peQAM/s1600/6+STOK+MONASTRY.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505622716493291554" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjILE4FgblZpMJRmgGHFPRYKVEtPTJ9MMgQXGcbFxcExDHvten78fAX1N-1RetKA6Y20kF_TXWV3EotLFDnLJhcN9_I-fD3Yj-1PJ1CK1w0umYSD8j78Xc3Z_dmVD2Pzto2zB4JjL_peQAM/s320/6+STOK+MONASTRY.JPG" border="0" /></a> Thiksey Monastery is the next stop, said Zigmet. Touted “Mini Potola palace”, the monastery is located in beautiful setting. The best part of monastery hopping in Leh is that you will get to see the surroundings differently. Thiksey again was on a small hill. Thanks to good road, the car was able to climb up till the entrance. But the climb form here was quite steep. We had to stop couple times with gulps of water before we reached the courtyard. The monastery looked deserted with very few monks as most of them had left for Nubra where Dalai Lama was camping. Thiksey being the second largest monastery in Ladakh, was well maintained. The courtyard leads to the two shrines. The walls are painted with Buddhist tangkhas and look very colorful. The piece-de- resistance was the 40 feet statue of “Maitreya – the Future Buddha”. It is a beautiful sculpture with a pleasing face of Maitreya. Notice the intricate work on the crown. Climbed up to the terrace of the monastery to get the awesome views of the surroundings. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlsRa-PGkRQmYch9c3VfDYF9tBoxaEZno65iiPt6Spu6olPCCHOFQkJFS7K6lYf8qDWpeDlHh0flSST4Umxsux01NySa9QCQyGkZOwwHMDO8yzGWLM9usE72x_ie5HRplFmTCEMEysrC-S/s1600/DSC00167.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505623259136596962" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlsRa-PGkRQmYch9c3VfDYF9tBoxaEZno65iiPt6Spu6olPCCHOFQkJFS7K6lYf8qDWpeDlHh0flSST4Umxsux01NySa9QCQyGkZOwwHMDO8yzGWLM9usE72x_ie5HRplFmTCEMEysrC-S/s320/DSC00167.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />We were feeling tired and when we went back to the car it was relief. After gulps of water, we were moving towards Shey palace – the old palace of maharajah – a mud palace being restored by Archeological survey. The palace is on a steep hill and will be tough to climb if not properly acclimatized. We climbed, but stopped at least three times. The palace is in dilapidated condition and being restored. There is shrine inside with a 30 story tall statute of Buddha.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQbx1DWvvtQ6Lqg616cBOGZOa7UVgeSI6VNsH6PYqa7ftV2yk_nhOEYPE6ScOqeZxX7S6CwvMxxNMGpk8HwkRJ50HXBlw8x18aS5H0g2QC1qHBeb5hh38vq7uiFfGMaOC1_EYWRBSvVY_-/s1600/DSC00176.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505623635085252466" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQbx1DWvvtQ6Lqg616cBOGZOa7UVgeSI6VNsH6PYqa7ftV2yk_nhOEYPE6ScOqeZxX7S6CwvMxxNMGpk8HwkRJ50HXBlw8x18aS5H0g2QC1qHBeb5hh38vq7uiFfGMaOC1_EYWRBSvVY_-/s320/DSC00176.JPG" border="0" /></a>It was nearing lunch time and we were also tired. The lunch was on the banks of Sindhu. It s a pleasant place for a chilled beer and lunch – I missed beer though…... Thank god there weren’t hoardes of tourists in this place – as there is no boating in the river - the place was very quiet and we could hear the sound of water flowing over pebbles. The water was very cold. Every year the Ladakhi government conducts “Sindhu Darshan” festival at this place. A peaceful lunch and a bit of rest….. we were raring to explore the other parts of the town.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIwG3DrW_NR9iWE6vyvrSjqqW6qMiYOqLBEjLJCWVQ5LYH3L3a8HbW449eRxvm6RUMZo1NojPk88n6AjQaZk6nXccmiFFoFcRi9kfkDiHiU90OuZ87nEG3bjzJhV91qnl9YAKaWDniB9nP/s1600/DSC00185.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505624115922487378" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIwG3DrW_NR9iWE6vyvrSjqqW6qMiYOqLBEjLJCWVQ5LYH3L3a8HbW449eRxvm6RUMZo1NojPk88n6AjQaZk6nXccmiFFoFcRi9kfkDiHiU90OuZ87nEG3bjzJhV91qnl9YAKaWDniB9nP/s320/DSC00185.JPG" border="0" /></a>Our next stop was the “Hall of fame” museum. This place on Kargil road was a pleasant surprise. Excellently curated by Army, it brought tears to our eyes as we saw the pictures of martyrs who had laid down their lives in various wars for the country in the region. The galleries depicting the Kargil war and Saichin are well done. Apart from exploits by the army and air force, it also showcases the flora and fauna of the region. The touching moments were when we read the last letter by Capt Vijayant Thapar who laid down his life in Kargil war and was awarded Maha Vir Chakra. This is one place no visitor to Leh should miss.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1rHuRj7N0Mc1rG8DUvB_p1tbMZ3aqHz6w8YSfQbz2oTPl8aHK03xt6O7KSb5IydKiT4tqtzRzEN3MNC1640NoP47VlnXjFxPDKmpWfOB6tZlnIVIkKqJVO5igbR9T1nbcRX4K680TaQkp/s1600/DSC00187.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505626087972614770" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1rHuRj7N0Mc1rG8DUvB_p1tbMZ3aqHz6w8YSfQbz2oTPl8aHK03xt6O7KSb5IydKiT4tqtzRzEN3MNC1640NoP47VlnXjFxPDKmpWfOB6tZlnIVIkKqJVO5igbR9T1nbcRX4K680TaQkp/s320/DSC00187.JPG" border="0" /></a>Our last stop before calling it a day was the City Palace. This one jetting out of the heart of city is again a mud palace. Being restored by Archeological Survey of India, it is in better shape than Shey palace. The roof top of the palace gives one a panoramic view of Leh. A climb from the palace is the “stand alone” gompa – Tsemo Gompa which gives you breathtaking views of Leh and surroundings. Ideal during sun set! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVoOsetm5926bsRBg8dkgfHsV3SyeemxNlr41ERuPsEyywaF2swNoPTE4SLYqF5l5KmucY-xTJg1UM03cn-rj5zE7qzPGyW_3AGBvub_4JXCyxUSrr6UGYL4oIlsGafWD_Sy1LdFiFq7FD/s1600/10+LEH+CITY.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505626562688367458" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 305px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 239px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVoOsetm5926bsRBg8dkgfHsV3SyeemxNlr41ERuPsEyywaF2swNoPTE4SLYqF5l5KmucY-xTJg1UM03cn-rj5zE7qzPGyW_3AGBvub_4JXCyxUSrr6UGYL4oIlsGafWD_Sy1LdFiFq7FD/s320/10+LEH+CITY.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />As we came back to the hotel, we called Badri Prasad – the Kancha - for a cup of coffee. The coffee was never refreshing more! </div>Brinda http://www.blogger.com/profile/09206830180128951222noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7736808596430305425.post-83757905857870584452010-07-31T01:06:00.000-07:002010-08-05T09:25:56.390-07:00LADAKH DIARY : PART 1 - MANALI LEH ROAD<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCg0SZhbapD2LcfJ6uim83ZlUKwntPmJcxkJBepn3rOck7121St3R6-ckk-W555jlf283yc9UuHNvTpqrfCHxIP7gocy_KjntTzqdrMs5N0jgh5jcd1mT18FqsjwrBdOGtfyyqG5-Koc2i/s1600/-.15+mlr.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499979523434844450" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCg0SZhbapD2LcfJ6uim83ZlUKwntPmJcxkJBepn3rOck7121St3R6-ckk-W555jlf283yc9UuHNvTpqrfCHxIP7gocy_KjntTzqdrMs5N0jgh5jcd1mT18FqsjwrBdOGtfyyqG5-Koc2i/s320/-.15+mlr.JPG" border="0" /></a> “It’s breathtakingly beautiful” – I told my friends as soon as I reached Leh after the spectacular journey of 473 Kms on the Manali - Leh road. Being fed up of the rush hour traffic to office and back and having lived all along in an urban set up, this “big trip” gave me all the thrill and excitement which I could not dream existed. The road clings and wriggles through some of the most spectacular terrain in the world- crossing four high passes, fords, streams and clings to tumbling mountain surfaces!<br />Our journey started from Manali on a cold rainy morning. Being my first trip up north, every road - ascent upwards unfolded a lot of surprises- the omnipresent apple trees with “red juicy” apples, the streams which gently flow down the tall mountains creating numerous waterfalls, the green carpet of trees <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2eefUc4FBiQSPEw9QDLRrWB3LJ85f3L85butD-w_s3HbaVPiJ2xr115fk-HSsw2VHBC7a1872ku_EYPTxZADabVr9AcDAm1teqCn6p5O_5x6u83c7bHJjEUiYSGAMeN_aRT8tVVkdGMPM/s1600/-.4+manali.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499980383222077346" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 274px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2eefUc4FBiQSPEw9QDLRrWB3LJ85f3L85butD-w_s3HbaVPiJ2xr115fk-HSsw2VHBC7a1872ku_EYPTxZADabVr9AcDAm1teqCn6p5O_5x6u83c7bHJjEUiYSGAMeN_aRT8tVVkdGMPM/s320/-.4+manali.JPG" border="0" /></a>and plants in the valley, the clouds which gently seem to caress the mountain peaks was a “visual” poetry.<br />Our car slowly climbed towards the snow-capped Rohthang Pass only to wait behind a “km long” pile up of cars due to a “mud slide”. We had a long journey ahead as the plan was to stay overnight as Sarchu which is approximately 150 KMs from Rohthang. Employees from BRO (Border Road Organization) were summoned from Manali to help clear the “mud slide” and when our car cleared this hurdle, we had lost about 2 hours of precious time. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRGtVwXOFbfGlvJnHe7uCxDoGGHgQvlt_4sIp20UuILi-wlG-7CxZmvthOUdCWGyo2NKp6S_sBACxaMX4fdMw9oEvarqc5xA1tA-qV7CfkwbbGgbSf16vR4tsgRZoyUvEos_hjfP3aWkfp/s1600/-.72+mlr.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499981826850597618" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 264px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 187px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRGtVwXOFbfGlvJnHe7uCxDoGGHgQvlt_4sIp20UuILi-wlG-7CxZmvthOUdCWGyo2NKp6S_sBACxaMX4fdMw9oEvarqc5xA1tA-qV7CfkwbbGgbSf16vR4tsgRZoyUvEos_hjfP3aWkfp/s320/-.72+mlr.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />Having had breakfast at Marhi, our journey resumed towards Sarchu. The journey beyond Rothang was suddenly silent- the only noise we could hear was the air rushing against the mountain or the tip – tap of the melting snow or the screech of the car tyre on the road - the road was sometimes “cemented”, sometimes a “patch of mud” or sometimes “a path thro a running stream”. Very soon the green valleys and mountains were replaced by shred of brown and rust and the snow peaks lingered in the background. Driving along the Bhaga River and listening to its different notes transformed me into a different world.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcv6XascLGfYq-96qXyn1heu8Gl6NgmxIt79SNKx2DqVfdDJMXdUA57KA7AljiA8iqH1wMIkJlXFxwj3JIRTfsTPZwTSZnVTqt7oGYxBR-0v5lfI6kndefi71LQzutkpWyTjNZw3Wowqtk/s1600/30+manali+leh+road+30.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500059934870449970" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 288px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcv6XascLGfYq-96qXyn1heu8Gl6NgmxIt79SNKx2DqVfdDJMXdUA57KA7AljiA8iqH1wMIkJlXFxwj3JIRTfsTPZwTSZnVTqt7oGYxBR-0v5lfI6kndefi71LQzutkpWyTjNZw3Wowqtk/s320/30+manali+leh+road+30.JPG" border="0" /></a> Post Thandi and Jispa, we began our ascent again towards Baralacha la which is at about 16500 ft. The journey was an absolute delight- beautiful and pristine Suraj tal lake and the winding snow capped roads , the low hung clouds with sun breaking in between and creating a beautiful rainbow, I could not just take my eyes off the road- wished I had a 360 degree vision. Barlacha la was white sheet spread out in every direction <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500060604230376274" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 288px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 193px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQFS4VF-abtkVVZgxWjWy-R6ocpoPU8XMYPn3grduAtVbyFwofhYZqkkG_PWfdOAF68cCLChVXGUXNdIyfuMrL3cnvAn2mwg4Vd3RGYxUJicMnefJy_txuQVJmd9gESJfG1X6IvfLD9pOZ/s320/39+manali+leh+road+39.JPG" border="0" />and made me sway between dream and reality!<br />Sarchu is where we find tents pitched in the pristine valley of the mighty mountains…for a city bred person, having to stay and sleep amid these mountains and listening to the noise of the winds and the gentle noise of the rain/dew/snow on the tent was a surreal experience. The altitude, the strange yet beautiful surroundings kept me awake the whole night at Sarchu - Even the sun did not miss out on the beauty of this wonderful place and he was up and running at about 4.30 am and I was ready for the second day’s trip by 6 am.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3UfI9oHzLYUoxAQ0oGeM6CjldwjMf0ndT90F5PgIPSAS1P-TNilNUcjtYDbAUDh8IcjE0yc5Q8VinuR9cWdW3j7Mlt9FMTMQ84F4s4-c39HuiVuEm68u-gWugFTAjC3kG56C0IgbmSXXi/s1600/51+camp+area+sarchu+manali+leh+trip+51.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500066401544705602" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 175px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3UfI9oHzLYUoxAQ0oGeM6CjldwjMf0ndT90F5PgIPSAS1P-TNilNUcjtYDbAUDh8IcjE0yc5Q8VinuR9cWdW3j7Mlt9FMTMQ84F4s4-c39HuiVuEm68u-gWugFTAjC3kG56C0IgbmSXXi/s320/51+camp+area+sarchu+manali+leh+trip+51.JPG" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCrFUj9e_-lkP00NzSc5aRiJJPqwrxanltvVBob0GHlonNty4mux6k6vxIXM1G4DWJTQDJReUuR4E8Jg3EkkGk71GU92zloHXGn2_3I8ozsooRh-pKMSrTc5e3CJhBN9D4YZ_eI8v-pMOC/s1600/suraj+tal+manali+leh+road+31.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500063238789371618" style="WIDTH: 265px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 171px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCrFUj9e_-lkP00NzSc5aRiJJPqwrxanltvVBob0GHlonNty4mux6k6vxIXM1G4DWJTQDJReUuR4E8Jg3EkkGk71GU92zloHXGn2_3I8ozsooRh-pKMSrTc5e3CJhBN9D4YZ_eI8v-pMOC/s320/suraj+tal+manali+leh+road+31.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Along side the road from Sarchu, we cross the river Tsarap Chu which has created canyon like structures in the mountains, all along its course. The road begins to climb again – notice <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyA0WZTgDPaTobPKaBiWQOjoktVcIZvC1fIxosokoe_pXQw6_vXZPP5qHzL6AV0zqjZbKBvPEivmeLrAo66Qrw_2vcivRctAr38-CzXR6lyyLUEO9Eknn5Za0Z4iiztqBrPT4GplZL9Fia/s1600/72+to+tanglang+la.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500068408595960082" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 296px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 221px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyA0WZTgDPaTobPKaBiWQOjoktVcIZvC1fIxosokoe_pXQw6_vXZPP5qHzL6AV0zqjZbKBvPEivmeLrAo66Qrw_2vcivRctAr38-CzXR6lyyLUEO9Eknn5Za0Z4iiztqBrPT4GplZL9Fia/s320/72+to+tanglang+la.JPG" border="0" /></a>stalactites of ice hang precariously on the rocky overhangs on the road. Past Nakee la and Lachlung la Pass notice the terrain becomes desert like and we enter the vast plains surrounded by mountains. We find ourselves in a “wild west” set up where we see rocky outcrops, natural arches and steep rocks on the tall mountains. Our final climb is towards Tanglang la, which is over 17000 ft. As soon as we start our descent towards Leh, we find ourselves accompanied by “Indus” river, which flows all along till Leh. The mountains suddenly become more colourful and we find shades of red, amber, <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglaYVTQmvY32xOmJH3ggr0Gn8GMNjpoasQPfFMLd2fadj_o-GOpllgb8GSXICescuMRxDCaRYRHsN85qJjHtapLf2M0KIuV0-BEdTusrvv3ffl7Hcl_I6BtUAk9aFTTc4s0kCrjUTz2Y9-/s1600/88+to+leh+city.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500069178395713906" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 287px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 158px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglaYVTQmvY32xOmJH3ggr0Gn8GMNjpoasQPfFMLd2fadj_o-GOpllgb8GSXICescuMRxDCaRYRHsN85qJjHtapLf2M0KIuV0-BEdTusrvv3ffl7Hcl_I6BtUAk9aFTTc4s0kCrjUTz2Y9-/s320/88+to+leh+city.JPG" border="0" /></a>violet and brown. The Indus brings with it more life and green and we find ourselves driving in a multi coloured tunnel. We now get a glimpse of “gompas” on hilltops and the mountain air seems to carry with it soothing “Buddhist chants”. The road towards Leh becomes more desert like and we notice “white chortems (stupas)” in various places on the road. The army camps make an appearance and the road is now “alive” with long convoys of army vehicles which are moving<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2zR9QSTwq5SMPbpVo_fWre3PFbsw9xHBNTIibZqdxJOnyLK08JAElBDjr8YxElAfsyabgSZ1ltKLCmXzSF1preQepdUFwtLjHgYXV5wMO9BFvX9Rk9qjh2Aok6QZZQG1gH2sZl75VdX0T/s1600/1+LEH+CITY.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500069883728573058" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 277px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 209px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2zR9QSTwq5SMPbpVo_fWre3PFbsw9xHBNTIibZqdxJOnyLK08JAElBDjr8YxElAfsyabgSZ1ltKLCmXzSF1preQepdUFwtLjHgYXV5wMO9BFvX9Rk9qjh2Aok6QZZQG1gH2sZl75VdX0T/s320/1+LEH+CITY.JPG" border="0" /></a> towards Leh and Kargil. After Upshi, Karu, Thiksey and we enter Leh<br /><br />As I sip tea in a café in leh, I could not help but recall the beautiful moments on the road- the memory of this drive will lingers along for years after the road has gone- It’s an experience of a lifetime!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><p><strong>TRAVEL TIPS</strong><br />a) This trip is not for faint hearted. You really need to rough it out on the treacherous roads. So be prepared mentally and physically!!<br />b) Remember that you will be driving from a height of 6000 ft in Manali to close to 18000 in Tanglang La. Acclimatization is the key. Else, AMS - Acute Mountain Sickness - is likely to hit you at these heights. Most of the cases will be mild and result in nausea, headaches, sleeplessness. <a href="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000133.htm">http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000133.htm</a><br />c) Though the trip can be done in two days, we recommend doing it in three days with overnight stay in Keylong and Pang. This will help one acclimatize better and fit and raring to go once you reach Leh.<br />d) Driving in hills takes more time and speeds are drastically reduced as road condition is not good. Always have buffer time to allow delays due to land slides and flooding of roads. Land slides are particularly common between Manali and Rohtang.<br />e) Doing the trip in three days will also help you stop and savour the beauty around. This will also give you time to take a detour to Tso Kar a beautiful lake in wilderness closer to Moreh Plains.<br />f) Our advise is to hire the local transport to do the trip. The roads are narrow and bad. The driver will not be able to enjoy the ride as his eyes will be fixed on the road. We have seen bikers on the road and we do not advise unless you are interested in adventure alone. Believe us; the guy who drives the vehicle - bike or car - will not be able to enjoy the drive.<br />g) Fill up fuel in Manali and carry supplies in Jerry cans. There is only one petrol bunk in Thandi and if it runs out of stock you will curse yourself. Diesel may be available in "black" at exorbitant cost but getting petrol will be difficult.<br />h) Follow the golden rule of hill driving. Start early and reach early!<br />i) Carry enough memory cards for your pictures. There is so much to click that you will regret if haven’t had these chips.<br />j) Eat less and don’t overfill yourself while driving in hills. Drink lot of water.<br />k) Carry a good medicine kit. Talk to your family doctor and take necessary medicines.<br />l) Do not exert and run around in high altitude. Oxygen content in atmosphere is 30 - 40 percent lesser in these areas and will make you tired and sick. Do not stay for more than 10 minutes in passes above 15000 ft<br />m) Carry a good Binocular<br />n) Pack your long johns and woolens. You require them at these tented camps where the temperatures fall to 5 deg<br />o) Ensure that you have the complete vehicle accessories and kit. If self driving, practice trouble shooting techniques and become confident. Carry a good map of the area.<br />p) Dal – Chawal, maggi and Omellettes are staple food you get in dhabhas on the way. Don’t expect anything more!<br />q) If possible try and plan your drive during full moon day period. You will possibly see the brightest moon ever in these rarified and unpolluted areas at night in tented camps.<br />r) Do not rely too much on your cell phone. It may not work most of the time.<br />s) Do not sleep on the journey. You will regret having missed on some of the outstanding sceneries in the world.<br />t) Lastly, if you get stuck up anywhere and find an army camp close by, go in and take their help. These great guys will never say NO.<br /><br /><br /> </p>Brinda http://www.blogger.com/profile/09206830180128951222noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7736808596430305425.post-6878696695485390492010-07-28T03:21:00.000-07:002010-07-28T03:53:11.488-07:00On the food trail in Old Delhi<div><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2pGY8c4vwY-a0IBo1uLfzvr-95Mbfw3wCobrO_NX2gATQSUX0wC97Iqoq9OUs1oBvu__6LLCF8e7y_OgEmCQg962VY2JR8Jn2gslNDYH9EU2feovTERIV05acEVz9ymFW86z_LBCz1TG1/s1600/5.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498901810749100834" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 201px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2pGY8c4vwY-a0IBo1uLfzvr-95Mbfw3wCobrO_NX2gATQSUX0wC97Iqoq9OUs1oBvu__6LLCF8e7y_OgEmCQg962VY2JR8Jn2gslNDYH9EU2feovTERIV05acEVz9ymFW86z_LBCz1TG1/s200/5.JPG" border="0" /></a> Purani Dilli ki Jillebis, Parathas, Kachori, falooda, lassi…with a big list, I began my journey of Delhi’s most famous ‘ paratha wali galli’. The culinary discovery is on a cycle rickshaw and our driver effortlessly navigate around the very narrow streets, which house shopping areas and ofcourse the chaatwalas, parathas and various other street foods.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ7Ih39rPwuVlcpGOP-PoJV7_THJh4SmZJHnbpBUU_4AOQ5fhYcIrWLC4VZvxLjp7paEvvj7MMc8vsp1GRz8zDCVPJ5nWQ4_Sn3A-1zL9iajfSj-mXgRbGh03lo1HlWBiDlQLiyIqxG9fz/s1600/4.JPG"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ7Ih39rPwuVlcpGOP-PoJV7_THJh4SmZJHnbpBUU_4AOQ5fhYcIrWLC4VZvxLjp7paEvvj7MMc8vsp1GRz8zDCVPJ5nWQ4_Sn3A-1zL9iajfSj-mXgRbGh03lo1HlWBiDlQLiyIqxG9fz/s1600/4.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498902871847949794" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 284px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 192px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ7Ih39rPwuVlcpGOP-PoJV7_THJh4SmZJHnbpBUU_4AOQ5fhYcIrWLC4VZvxLjp7paEvvj7MMc8vsp1GRz8zDCVPJ5nWQ4_Sn3A-1zL9iajfSj-mXgRbGh03lo1HlWBiDlQLiyIqxG9fz/s320/4.JPG" border="0" /></a>The sweet tooth made us start this trip with a visit to the very famous Dariba Corner for jalebis. Having savoured this to our hearts content, we window shop for the various other bric a brac which has been sold for centuries- silver – jewellery, perfumes, wedding invites, other wedding essentials etc . We gather a nice appetite and head straight to Pandit Gaya Prasad Shiv Charan Paranthewalla- which has withstood the influence of time and has managed to retain their core. This paranthewalla boasts of about 30 variety of Paranthas…we notice certain famous political figures having visited this place and tasted the Paranthas. The Paranthas come on to the table accompanied by dollops of aachar, saunth ki chutney, aloo methi sabji…These are cooked on special karhai and these ensure that the paratha does not get burnt and retain their original aroma and flavour.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHroym6aAd_v6W1eeaUnOXPUJXyekOpyHcLTKO4bPFxsmfsaxA73p4a6sDxceIEqORMj2iDDYH_mt2_r4cJOxwr8dqnQJ6FfUFsHxxet-1I40cXQLXHAVPN8tBGRrgUGrQ6OBhB3RETQOT/s1600/10.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498903743087032722" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 284px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 195px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHroym6aAd_v6W1eeaUnOXPUJXyekOpyHcLTKO4bPFxsmfsaxA73p4a6sDxceIEqORMj2iDDYH_mt2_r4cJOxwr8dqnQJ6FfUFsHxxet-1I40cXQLXHAVPN8tBGRrgUGrQ6OBhB3RETQOT/s320/10.JPG" border="0" /></a> Moving on a little walk will lead us to Ghantewalas Mitha Shop, which is one of the oldest sweet shop in Delhi- and famous for its sohan Halwa. Chaina Ram serves the best Kachori in town –head there before 5 or you will be disappointed </div><div><br />A little further from the Fatheripuri Chowk, we are treated to the delightful Rabri Faloo at Gyanis- it’s a solid chunk of thickened milk topped with nuts and eaten with falooda.Our evening ended with a very tasty lassi at Amritsari Lassi<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghX4KFxlaDRuiksdKZRBCEEiv3y5Pby7XFY8mceFQSoP9IGn-gsSbFJ40B6oXQw_NHIKxnU0iiYjtratfY7CmEktDT_5c_-Tyxx0X1QsORLRdAgfuKe9KmSlH8kW8y9UM24-anMmw7Kebh/s1600/13.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498905643888774018" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghX4KFxlaDRuiksdKZRBCEEiv3y5Pby7XFY8mceFQSoP9IGn-gsSbFJ40B6oXQw_NHIKxnU0iiYjtratfY7CmEktDT_5c_-Tyxx0X1QsORLRdAgfuKe9KmSlH8kW8y9UM24-anMmw7Kebh/s320/13.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />These eateries are famous in their own right and they have stood as mute witness to the time induced changes. <strong><span style="color:#000000;"><em>Here with every bite, I felt we sampled not only a delicacy but also a piece of history !<br /></em></span></strong></div></div></div>Brinda http://www.blogger.com/profile/09206830180128951222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7736808596430305425.post-80114509420984829362010-05-28T06:17:00.000-07:002010-05-28T06:19:59.496-07:00SCENE IN A TEMPLEThe wedding of the God celebrated aplomb<br />People flock to see the celebration in jubilation<br />A scholar is entrusted to educate the masses thro sermons and lectures<br />The entire place echo a religious fervour<br /><br />The God is given a bath in holy waters and sweet perfumes<br />And decked with best of jewellery and costume<br />The devotees throng for a slice of the holy blessing<br />A trip to the temple to wash away their sin?<br /><br />The priests sing the holy verses and the scholar recite the holy script<br />The masses gather in their finest silks<br />What are they trying to hide and conceal<br />Don’t they know that God can look beyond their silks and thrill?<br /><br />A procession of the God in streets and lanes<br />Only the road is swept clean and decorated with holy designs<br />Once the God passes by, its back to normal folly again<br />The procession, the sermon not showing any real gain<br /><br />The God is a commodity and his wedding an activity<br />A platform for the priests and scholars to show their authority<br />A salvation is promised and its attained thro ‘money’<br />God, speak out and punish this farce and felony.Brinda http://www.blogger.com/profile/09206830180128951222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7736808596430305425.post-55900275715061911292010-05-23T21:33:00.000-07:002010-05-23T21:35:58.911-07:00A SACRIFICEI stand shivering in fear<br />The shroud was lurking just so near<br />The people around me are full of cheer<br />God, why don’t I hear your voice loud and clear?<br /><br />Adorned I am with a flowery noose<br />And looking around for sympathy and support<br />Are my prayers falling on deaf ears?<br />God, why don’t I hear your voice loud and clear?<br /><br />A short journey- from cradle to grave<br />Was I sent here to fulfil just this mission?<br />Who are these men and what is my fault?<br />God, why don’t I hear your voice loud and clear?<br /><br />The crowd is cheering and waiting for the kill<br />Its destiny – I can’t go against their will!<br />Can a single soul fight the cause of this crowd?<br />God, why don’t I hear your voice clear and loud?<br /><br />The slaughter is near, am walking to the altar<br />Is one death a means to so many dreams?<br />I stand confused failing to fathom this riddle<br />To whose prayers do you pin your ears?<br />God, why don’t <strong>we</strong> hear your voice loud and clear?Brinda http://www.blogger.com/profile/09206830180128951222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7736808596430305425.post-59236705668383006482010-05-22T18:30:00.000-07:002010-05-22T18:36:14.154-07:00The World is a StageThe curtains went up as the lights dimmed out<br />Extravagant stage packed with actors performing different roles<br />Flashy costume, generous make up and meaningful dialogues<br />I sat there – watching a spectacle unfold !!<br /><br />The GOD appeared amidst grandiose special effects<br />Promising the world a rescue & relief from demons so dreaded<br />The GOD seemed all powerful and the demons extra wicked<br />Curious as I watched the audience rapturous and totally involved !!<br /><br />The drama ended, GOD worshipped and the villain dead!<br />Audience elated and the troupe delighted<br />The ovation was loud and the applause extended<br />Happy ending for both - the actors and the crowd !!<br /><br />Backstage, world - all bare and plain<br />With costume and make up done away, actors open to naked glare again<br />The curtain made all the difference<br />Bringing me back to reality again !!<br /><br />Outside, a bigger stage and larger canvas<br />I am sure to meet both-GOD and Demon without any premonition<br />No costume -No make up to set them apart- the same person will stage both parts<br />Who triumphs over the other- the antagonist or the protagonist?<br />The world is a stage – not easy to tell<br />Men are fickle changing their roles at will !!!Brinda http://www.blogger.com/profile/09206830180128951222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7736808596430305425.post-52304425274151256662010-05-21T18:44:00.000-07:002010-05-21T18:45:45.419-07:00I DOA sacred knot and an eternal bond<br />An endless promise of undying love<br />A conjugal passion and rapture of ecstasy<br />Of moments of yearning and deep affection.<br />If this is what marriage is, then my answer is ‘ I DO’<br /><br />An intimacy in thoughts and alliance of ideas<br />A balancing of fortitude and flaw<br />A benevolent friendship and equitable companionship<br />Of sustaining the essence of ‘seven vows’ <br />If this is what marriage is, then my answer is ‘ I DO’<br /><br />Harmony in thoughts and empathy in words<br />Sharing of ideas and nurturing of dreams<br />Where happy times are better and the burdens lighter<br />A garden of meaningful memories and inspirations <br />If this is what marriage is, then my answer is ‘I DO’<br /><br />I Do, I care, I respect, I admire, I confide<br />I laugh, I listen, I mellow, I savour<br />I celebrate- This Life of contentment and bliss.Brinda http://www.blogger.com/profile/09206830180128951222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7736808596430305425.post-83228761439055575252010-05-20T08:52:00.000-07:002010-05-20T08:54:46.142-07:00MY DEAR BIRDWhy do you sing- oh my dear bird<br />Has the dark night melted away for the sun to rise again?<br />Is it time to abort a dream and face the reality again?<br /><br />Where do you fly- on my dear bird<br />To which distant land do you go and come back in the evening again?<br />Is that land better or is it the same story all over again?<br /><br />What do you see- oh my dear bird<br />A view beyond the marked boundary and fighting men?<br />Is there any land where peace rules and the place resemble heaven?<br /><br />What do you hear –oh my dear bird<br />The tales and stories of the funny world your friends have flown?<br />Or the soothing tales from a land afar, which only wind has known?<br /><br />Why do you smile- oh my dear bird<br />At the antics and tricks of men which goes in vain?<br />At the repeated efforts and never ending struggle which never see a gain!<br /><br />Can I ask a favour from you- oh my dear bird<br />Take a handful of blessing and shower them on the terrain.<br />Let’s give a miracle to the far off lands and its people a reason to smile againBrinda http://www.blogger.com/profile/09206830180128951222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7736808596430305425.post-13439559045357767482010-05-14T23:27:00.000-07:002010-05-14T23:28:47.692-07:00AKSHAYA TADIGE- THE MULTIPLIER EFFECTAkshaya Tadige- its that time of the year again, when the entire world goes on a shopping spree – in anticipation of richness and prosperity. Its search for that ‘elusive’ fortune, that people believe will envelope them, on buying the ‘yellow metal’. Taking clue from this ‘hysteric buying’ the prosperity tag is now extended to buy several other lifestyle goods…the tag line which is noticed in all leading dailies and hoardings is ‘usher in prosperity’. This frenzy is well supported and encouraged by the business community by having extended shopping hours on the ‘D’ day and several schemes which allows ‘booking’ and ‘reserving’ of that piece of ‘precious metal’….oops, these schemes almost seem to guarantee a ‘new rich and prosperous’ world to the buyers…<br /><br />Akshaya means ‘never diminishing’. This day is believed to be auspicious and bring in good luck and success. It is belived that if you do a charity on this day you will be blessed and will receive blessings many fold. Sadly, the ‘true’ significance of this day is buried under marketing gimmicks and the entire day is marketed as an ‘event’ marked by consumerist attitude. <br />Why don’t we promise ourselves to move away these ‘worldly riches’? Why don’t be attempt to be ‘richer and prosperous’ in our thoughts and ideas? Why don’t we broaden ‘our horizon’ and share a smile with the ‘less fortunate’. Why don’t we do a good deed or a small act of kindness which will have a multiplier – the ‘akshaya’ effect on community…is this not the true spirit behind the concept of Akshaya Tadige.Brinda http://www.blogger.com/profile/09206830180128951222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7736808596430305425.post-12081233058120517672010-05-09T08:04:00.000-07:002010-05-09T08:08:40.231-07:00The Leg as an excuse‘Your leg is fine now - you are the same person you were some six weeks back’ said the doctor. A smile spread across my lips as I thanked the doctor and walked out holding on to the crutch a little less lightly…”You need not use the support now” said the doctor, as he waved us good bye…<br /><br />A big relief washed over me as I slowly walked back to the car. The steps were short and slow and by the time I reached the car, it looked as if I was trying to remember and relearn how to walk ‘independently’- slowly trying to get rehabilitated to what I was prior to the injury. Be confident in your steps, there is nothing to fear said my husband as he held my hand and helped me back to the car. Let’s go for a drive, he said as he slowly made way out of the city’s busy streets.<br /><br />Had the outside world changed in the six weeks- not really. Noticed it was still the same. The same chaos and confusion .The people looked extremely busy and seemed to be in a hurry. What were they busy in- what did they want to achieve- what was the ‘race’ they were running? What was the goal which was so important to achieve that none stopped for a minute to even take a pause and give a glance at the world? Their eyes and hearts seemed programmed and they seemed oblivious to the world around them. To me, they all seemed like robots in action!<br /><br />But had my world had changed in the last six weeks- most definitely yes. My expectations and perceptions had changed. My aspirations, my thoughts, my dreams had changed. These six weeks had made me a richer person- richer in experiences, richer in thoughts and richer in relationships. The experience was humbling in more than one way and at the end of it all, these sculpted me into being a more sensitive person. A deep sense of gratitude swept over me – to all the people who in their own small ways supported me and helped me get over this very smoothly.<br /><br />As I reflect back, the six weeks of ‘forced rest’ stood as a test of my reactions on this state of ‘doing nothing’. Would I whine and cry my way out and party hard at the freedom again after six weeks or would I reflect on all the things which I always wanted to do but somehow never ‘found the time’. To do things and use this as an opportunity to satisfy and put a tick in the box in a lot of items on my bucket list. I choose to do the latter. Reading literature- prose, poems, essays, watching the best of movies which the world cinema has produced, getting together a group of like minded friends and starting a book club for appreciation of art and literature, paying a visit to my old teachers and professors, writing a few travelogues and essays, arranging a poetry reading program- the six weeks flew away quickly.<br /><br />What happened to the busy life which I was so used to- all the weekend parties and the beeline to movie theatre on Fridays. I outlasted them. The friends who cared visited home and kept in touch thro phone and provided the much needed support. Colleagues dropped in to say hello and gave warm wishes for speedy recovery. My world got richer as it was filled with wishes of friends and loved ones. I took a pause and got to understand who and what really mattered…was a time and opportunity given for soul searching…and a preview that a beautiful life existed beyond ‘weekday work’ and ‘weekend partying’.<br /><br />The importance of small acts of kindness and compassion towards fellow human beings who are physically challenged dawned upon me. I suddenly started noticing the lack of empathy the society around us have for the physically challenged…I started advocating ramps and lifts to the different places I visited like different hospitals or other commonly visited places like department stores etc.. The world is not made of people with equal capabilities but then I was surprised on why I had not noticed it all these years…did it warrant a ‘fracture in my leg’ to make me ‘human’ in the true sense of the word.<br /><br />As I reached home, I remembered the doctors words that I was again, the same person as I was six weeks back…Am I- not really .Brinda http://www.blogger.com/profile/09206830180128951222noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7736808596430305425.post-19572896745597759122010-04-04T08:27:00.000-07:002010-04-04T08:28:12.430-07:00DREAM STARTUgadi heralds the onset of a new year- it is the Hindu equivalent of the 1st of January. Much has been said and written about the importance / rituals / celebrations / prevalent traditions of this beautiful day in spring. The nature is as at its best Ugadi is a celebration of this ‘newness’ – a new start. It is customary to greet elders and take their blessings – the exchange of “neem leaves and jaggery” is indicative of us accepting the sweet and bitter moments in the New Year with equal aplomb! ‘Visit to the temples’ follows next with a huge wish list dumped on God – for him to tirelessly work on through the year! Armed with the good wishes of friends and blessings from elders and the trip to the temple, we hope the year ahead will foster in prosperity and cheer.<br /><br />My Ugadi day started with wishing near and dear ones the best for the New Year. After taking blessings from elders, I headed out to meet one of the most loved and talented poets/authors of our times - he was my Professor in college - a towering personality in the field of art and literature and above all a wonderful person filled with warmth and goodwill towards everyone who interacted with him. With warm smile and kind eyes, he welcomed and showered me with the choicest of wishes. He told me a lot of anecdotes of his past and all the different Ugadis he had celebrated, all his resolutions and how some of them succeeded and how some of them did not, clearly stating reasons for both. He shared some of his new experiences, views/thoughts about the latest developments in the field of art and literature, gave his opinion on the best literary works the world had produced and helped me understand on how a literary work/book can be reviewed and understood. He read out some of his latest/famous poems and told me their background. He shared with me his experience when writing a poem and his experiences when he meets other famous writers and poets. His magic of words and wonderful thoughts which he had weaved, kept me mesmerized for about two hours. When I left for home, I knew that this Ugadi was not the routine for me - it made me a new individual and in cliché I can say – turned me into a new leaf!<br /><br />The discussions were an awakening of my sensitivity and sensibility. These discussions had paved way for the ‘human’ aspect in me to get truly awakened. I felt the blessings that had been showered on me made me look at the world with a different pair of eyes…eyes which can now look beyond the routine expectations of worldly pleasures. My definition of prosperity had changed and my aspirations and expectations in the New Year were completely different. I wanted to create and live in a ‘beautiful’ world which had room only for good thoughts – a world which was kinder, humane, understanding and compassionate.<br /><br />A glimpse into the wonderful and rich world of art and literature had opened up an unknown world of riches which was beyond my imagination. I realized that the different notes in a beautiful poetry or the different strokes in a lovely painting or the wonderful thoughts in a short story was the prosperity I was running after.<br /><br />Very soon, when I got an opportunity to interact with another doyen in the field of literature, my joy knew no bounds. His beautiful narrations through poems and prose pieces, the honesty and the subtle characterisation in the short stories gave me heady experience which can almost be described as divine. The child like curiosity, the simplicity in thoughts, the conviction in actions, the clear logic of differentiating good from the bad and the wonderful ways of sharing their experiences with the world made these poets and literary figures so unique – so gifted. My interactions and experiences with these poets were truly soul searching!<br /><br />As I came out of his house, I noticed the bright lights and the sounds from a nearby temple. For a minute, I reflected that my experiences with poets-literary figures-intellectuals were the same as visiting a temple or a holy place- except that in temple we get to see an idol who is silently guiding us but these poets-literary figures-intellectuals are living examples of what we can aspire to be!<br /><br />This Ugadi saw a transformed “me”. I had begun to realise what my goals in life should be and what I really wanted. I had a dared to dream a dream and started finding new paths to achieve it. Spring brings about a change in nature and this time I was no exception! I remembered Somerset Maugham’s quote "Life isn't long enough for love and art." I am glad I had made a start now and started well!Brinda http://www.blogger.com/profile/09206830180128951222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7736808596430305425.post-60540138669207058452010-03-22T08:36:00.000-07:002010-03-22T08:37:31.284-07:00SUMMER RAINSA pleasant welcome awaited me as I stepped out of the office…a wisp of air brought with it the smell of damp earth – the first rains of summer had arrived...The late afternoon sun was playing with the thick black clouds- the air was moist and cool and the rain drops which were falling gave a perfect start to the evening!<br /><br />As I sped away in the car, towards home…there were a multitude of reflections and thoughts…thoughts on the rains itself- on the freshness it brings with it and the changes which happen in nature- how we suddenly realize the “heat” which we had got used to and how welcome the “rains” are! The air conditioner of the car was no longer required. As I rolled down the windows, it hit me powerfully that the comfort which the fresh-rain laden winds bring can never be matched by the best air-conditioning that we have created!<br /><br />It was interesting to see the difference these rains made and how the world reacted to it – pedestrians and people who were travelling on the two wheelers rushed to take shelter and am sure were cursing themselves on why they did not get their rain gear…hawkers - rushing to a nearby building to protect themselves against the rain were seen complaining loudly that the rains would disrupt their business and would keep the buyers away. And of course, people who mainly live on the streets- the less fortunate and homeless - were upset the most…they had nowhere to go and took shelter and even as they did, the shelter was just so temporary!<br /><br />As we drove along, I noticed the lush green lawns of the golf course and the trees on both sides of the road drenched fully in the rain….looking clean, fresh and full of life. They seemed to be brimming with new life - new energy! It was as if nature was in symphony that evening...a light drizzle of the rains..had bought such an awesome change in the nature around us!<br />Further down…noticed that the drops of rain showered equally on two of the most beautiful buildings – Vidhana Soudha, the seat of power and Windsor Manor- the epitome of luxury. The buildings looked “washed”…the dust which had continuously gathered over the last couple of months were removed to give a new “look” …but my thoughts did not just stop with the buildings – I wondered whether the people who are an integral part of these buildings also feel and undergo a similar “facelift” ..were their minds also scrubbed clean and did they also feel “fresh” in their thoughts and thinking?<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Nature stands transformed when it experiences the “summer rain” …what do we, as humans need to have this transformation…what is our portion of this “nectar” which is required for us to change and transform….The rains which remove and wash away the stale thoughts and give us new insights- the rains which can usher in thoughts about what is really is to be “human”- the rains which can make us look at the world with more compassion and friendliness ….<br /><br />As I reached home, the downpour had increased…A good cup of coffee and watching the rains cosily from the bedroom window, brought in more thoughts around the “rain” and its different facets…The beautiful transformation which was happening in nature, somehow felt very restricted as I watched it from the window…but then don’t we all watch the “panorama” of nature from our own-self created windows…this window in my room truly acted as a barrier and was keeping me away from enjoying the magic of the moment in true magnificence.<br /> The sound of blaring TV from the neighbours’ house brought me back to reality of the world…did the world look at the rain and for a minute enjoy the feeling it bought with it…I am not sure. Each person engrossed in their own “world” who did not have the patience nor the inclination to “mute” for a minute what ever they were doing and enjoy the “tip-tap” of the rain!! The rains are not just “drops of water” falling from the sky after all…it’s a blessing which is showered on us…it’s left to us to take the cue and look forward to enjoying the world around us …a world which we can nurture with new dreams, new hopes, new resolutions…which rhymes the “up beat” mood of nature around us…which stands transformed on the arrival of the summer rains!Brinda http://www.blogger.com/profile/09206830180128951222noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7736808596430305425.post-81968190794387758492010-03-22T08:35:00.000-07:002010-03-22T08:36:22.628-07:00thank youA lazy Saturday Morning is always a “bliss”. With the alarm turned off,the mind is free from the clutches of “all office related thoughts” . This relief though temporary and momentous, is a feeling I look forward to - a wonder drug which temporarily erases away the misery experienced due to “routine” and “mundane” activity we do on the week- days.<br /><br />This excitement of the weekend starts off on Friday itself. I am more boisterous and peppy on Friday and repeatedly say under my breath - “Thank god its Friday” ­­– as if I am chanting a “mantra”. The excitement and the anticipation of the weekend generally creates a perception that Fridays are shorter days in office. The weekend begins for me when the watch announces its 4 pm and I am all smiles as I rush out wishing colleagues a happy weekend !<br /><br />This weekend particularly was to be “one long party” with get together with friends, birthday celebration of my professor and a wedding of my neighbour all lined up. I could hardly wait for it to start !<br /><br />Friday evening was to be a blast. It was a get together of friends from college. Co-incidentally, we were to celebrate birthday of one of the “gang” which added more zing to the party ! All had confirmed participation looking forward to it.<br /><br />“Please make it on time- don’t make others wait”<br />“We are all meeting after a long time- lets have a hearty talk- don’t be late”<br />“Hopefully it wont rain and cause traffic jams- rain can be such a spoil sport”<br /><br />These were some the test messages/calls exchanged as I clocked out of office “on time” and was happy that everything was going as scheduled .<br /><br />The thoughts about meeting the “gang” bought out a big nice smile on my face with nostalgic memories of college. The gang was “built” in college of like minded people sitting together on the “same bench” in the college lecture rooms. The escapades in college, the fun in the “growing up” years and various incidents thereafter not only kept alive this “band” of friendship but also “reinforced it” . This friendship truly was a rarity in the “modern world” of “superficial hellos and lip service - thank you”<br /><br />The driver braked and the car stopped for a moment. As I looked up, noticed that we were passing a hospital and the security personnel of the hospital was making way for the pedestrians to cross the road and help enter the hospital premises. Many elderly people paused and thanked the security guard as they crossed the road. Taking advantage of the halting of the traffic, the ambulance hurriedly entered the hospital gates just in time for the hospital staff to rush an accident victim inside the “emergency gate”. The loud and haunting noise of the ambulance stopped and the deafening silence that followed was a message to the world that the patient was in capable hands.<br /><br />“Where are you- when are you reaching” my mobile beeped and woke me up from my thoughts as I got a message. Oops, for a minute I had forgotten about the “party” which I had looked forward the entire week. As I hurried past the hospital, I thought for a minute of the ambulance and particularly its driver who must have done some “crazy” driving to reach the hospital in time - defying every rule book on driving and rushing past all vehicles just to ensure he “rescues” the victim. Did he also look forward to the weekend as much as I did? Was his Friday and Saturday as welcome to him as it was to me ?<br /><br />The party was more “fun” than I had expected it to be. The “birthday boy” was showered with “wishes” and “gifts”. There was music and dance ,good food and wine ! The party ended with promise of “lets keep in touch” and “lets meet more often” etc. As I had organized this party, every one came up to me and said-<br />“thanks for taking time off and arranging this, it was a wonderful party”<br />”thank you- the arrangements are always good when you take the lead”<br />“I don’t remember when I had so much fun lately- take care”<br /><br />told my friends as they were all leaving. As I stood alone, waving at them “good bye”, the hospital scene flashed before me - the security guard, the ambulance driver, the hospital staff – they deserved the “thank you” much more than I did.<br /><br />It was pretty late. The moon was shining bright in the sky. As I drove back the moon and the stars in the clear sky gave me company. It was exhilarating. “Thank you” I said to the moon and all the bright stars which lit up the night sky - they added colour and comfort the otherwise dark sky - gave company for solitary people like me who were on the road eagerly waiting to reach “home”<br /><br />The next day being Saturday woke up late to chirping noise of the birds. Two lovely birds were sitting on the window sill and trying to “build” a nest in a tree nearby. This was such an unusual experience and the typical urban upbringing prompted me to say “look- they are so cute, they sing so well- I will take a picture of them and then do a “Google search” of what these birds are” The birds, unaware of all the hoopla of the camera and the excitement around continued to sing and on impulse, flew away after a couple of minutes. It had been such a beautiful “wake up” song for me. It was an experience which lingered in my memory the whole day which I would cherish for a long time to come !<br /><br />It was the 60th birthday celebrations of my professor and as I reached the venue, noticed that it was more busier and bustling with people that I had anticipated. The professor was a very popular person and the best loved faculty in the college. My memory did a flashback on how we made sure of not missing his lectures, how we made it a point to have interactions with him on every available occasion. His simple and encouraging words and the kind smile gave us the courage and conviction to believe in ourselves! I had to wait for my turn to meet him. I handed a gift and beautiful bouquet of flowers and wished him very warmly. I was quickly jostled by the next “student” who was waiting his turn to wish the professor. The crowd and the excitement reflected the everyone was celebrating more than the professors birthday. It was “our” way of saying “thank you” to our beloved professor who was instrumental in making us the way we are. The knowledge, love and guidance which was showered on us was now getting acknowledged and in “abundance” !<br /><br />Sunday dawned bright and nice. A cuppa coffee and newspapers later, left home to reach the church , to attend a wedding of my neighbour. The place looked as if a battalion from the army had landed there! My neighbour was a serving officer in the India Armed Forces and had just got his posting in Bangalore and was living with his parents. I knew that I would meet a few “men in uniform” but this was a surprise ! My interactions with this “elite” group of people was very limited and this occasion gave me a perfect opportunity to talk to them and get to know them better. Since it was my first encounter with them, I was making note of their every behaviour and mannerism - were they like us or were they different ! They looked “pretty normal” or rather “smart” I must say - more chivalrous compared to their “civilian” counterparts - and had a “zing” in their steps and “pride” in their stride. After all, these are the people who protect us and help us to remain the “REPUBLIC OF INDIA”. They are the people who guard the borders of this very special country, while the rest of the “civilian” India cosily curl up in our bedrooms.<br /><br />“Thanks for coming” said my neighbour as I wished him. But really , I had to thank him – it made me realize and acknowledge what we often take for granted – to say “thank you” - to the brightest and strongest men who are ready for any challenges and sacrifices in their duty for the motherland.<br /><br />Monday morning was the usual in office. “How was your weekend” asked a friend as we sipped coffee in the café. It was a routine question but this time the experiences were a revelation. A persistent question, a lingering thought on how do I acknowledge and thank and thank “enough” the various people and in general the world around for contributing for what I am today.<br /><br />How do I thank my friends for their unquestioned support and the beautiful bond of friendship which has kept me afloat and gave me the strength to face the world?<br />How do I thank my parents and teachers for their unabashed love and guidance which they showered on me- to make me the individual I am today?<br />Can I even try and thank the various people who go beyond the call of duty to protect and help me and several other people in this country - the armed forces, the police and firemen!<br />Doctors /medical attendants whom we run to during medical emergency to whom we trust our lives with- how do I express my gratitude ?<br />The poets and writers- who have made this world so beautiful !The sun which provides the warmth- the moon the required solace the wind, rain- each element of nature which brings in the comfort required for to make this world such a beautiful place to live in- how can I thank them all ?<br /><br />In the urban society we live, oblivious to each other but at the same time interdependent. Do we ever pause and think about the helpful souls from whom we have directly or indirectly received help? Different people – people who work for the essential services, people who are less privileged and work as domestic help/construction workers - people in their own small ways who make our life comfortable. Have we given a nice smile in acknowledgement of their services at least once- let alone thank them?<br /><br />It started pouring as I left the office. Driving back home in the rain, sitting inside the cosiness of the car, I saw this police man standing in the middle, in the rain managing the chaotic traffic in a busy junction. As I drove past the policeman, rolled down my windows and thanked him – thanked him for keeping our roads safe and for helping me reach “home” quickly.<br /><br />He smiled back and said “ Drive safe” and continued his orchestral movements.Brinda http://www.blogger.com/profile/09206830180128951222noreply@blogger.com0