ಜುಟ್ಟಿನ ಹಿಂದೆ

ನನ್ನ ಹೆಂಡತಿ ವಿದ್ಯಾಳಿಗೆ ಐದು ತಿಂಗಳಿನಿಂದ ಒಂದೇ ಚಿಂತೆ - ನನ್ನ ಮಗಳಿಗೆ ಜುಟ್ಟು ಯಾವಾಗ ಹಾಕುವುದೆಂದು ? ಪ್ರತಿ ದಿನ ಅವಳ ಸ್ನಾನ ಆದ ನಂತರ, ಸಾಕ್ಷಿ ನಿನ್ನ ತಲೆಗೂದಲು ಯಾವಾಗ ಉದ್ದ ಬೆಳೆಯುವುದು, ನಾನು ಯಾವಾಗ ನಿನಗೆ ಜುಟ್ಟು ಹಾಕುವುದು, ನೀನು ಹೂವು ಯಾವಾಗ ಮುಡಿಯುವುದು .... ಹೀಗೆ ಜುಟ್ಟಿನ ಹಿಂದೆ ಒಂದರ ಹಿಂದೆ ಒಂದು ಪ್ರಶ್ನೆ. 

೨೦೧೪ ಫೆಬ್ರವರಿ  ೨೨, ಅವಳ ಕನಸು ನನಸಾಯಿತು. ಸಾಕ್ಷಿಗೆ ಚೋಟುದ್ದ ಜುಟ್ಟು ಹಾಕಿ (ಬಲು ಸಾಹಸ ಪಟ್ಟು) ಒಂದು ಗುಲಾಬಿಯನ್ನು ಮುಡಿಸಿ, ಅಬ್ಬ ಎಂದು ಸಂತೋಷ ಪಟ್ಟಳು ವಿದ್ಯಾ.

ಈ ಕಡೆ ಸಾಕ್ಷಿ ತನ್ನ ಪುಟ್ಟ ಜುಟ್ಟನ್ನು ಎಲ್ಲರಿಗೂ ತೋರಿಸಿ, ಹಿಗ್ಗಿ ನಲಿದು, ನವಿಲಿನಂತೆ ಗರ್ವದಿಂದ ಜಿಗಿದು ಕುಣಿದಾಡಿದಳು. ಇನ್ನು ಜುಟ್ಟಿನಿಂದ ಜಡೆಯ ಕಡೆಗೆ ಪ್ರಯಾಣ ...............

Teaching Courage - the Grand Father way

The only way to overcome fear is to face it. This was my Father's mantra for my Sister & I. AND for sure He wanted the legacy of No Fear to pass on to the next generation as well. Every opportunity is well utilized since Her birth. When She was struggling to sit, She would fall, we would watch but offer no help. She learned to sit on Her own in a day. She wanted to stand & fell down in doing so for two days. Again, we watched but offered no help. She took the first baby steps & we watched Her fall, rise to Her feet & walk everywhere.

She often hurts Her head against the low lying cot, the chair & we just ignore. There were instances when She would fall & we would rush to Her help & precisely when She would start crying. However, when we ignored, She would rise, rub the head & continue playing. When She started to climb the stairs we were worried about Her safety, but watching Her little hands hold the grills tight, We knew She would be careful. Two days ago, in excitement to greet my neighbor, She jumped and fell down two stairs with a good bump on Her forehead. I was quick to lift Her and rub the forehead & Her cry lasted for a few seconds. When I told this to Her Grand Father, His response was "She will not jump the next time". She was 12months old when I took Her alone without any support on my bike & today She confidently sits on the bike & even stands on the Activa & roams around with Her Grand Father.

This photograph was taken at Hebbale (Her Great Grand Father's birth place) where river Hemavathi flows in full might. Saakshi was 11 & 1/2 months old. She played in the river with Her Grand Father for a good hour & as we were taught, we knew if She was enjoying, nothing to worry about Her health.

Thanks Dad for teaching courage the practical way & in days to come Saakshi would be proud of the lessons taught !

New Memories - Cubbon Park

Cubbon Park for all Bangaloreans brings some memory or the other. For me it is still the giant wheel, the toy train & the playground.

We took Saakshi to enjoy the toy train but that was closed for the day. However, that did not stop Her from having fun. She learned how to play bubbles, ran around the trees & the lawn. Walked & walked, played with the gas balloon & the highlight for me was the way She chased the pigeons & learned how to release bubbles.

Saakshi learning the Bubbles

Vidya demonstrated the bubbles and in one go Saakshi had learnt. We enjoyed Her play till She was bored of it.

Saakshi trying to feed the pigeons

We reached the pigeons feeding area where there were hundreds of them. Saakshi waited a moment to see what they were doing & in that excitement She ran towards them & they flew away.
As soon as they came back, She was cautiously taking slow steps towards them, but they kept jumping a step away. She ran around chasing them for a while and then She slowly picked up the grains from the floor to Her hand and walked towards the pigeons. Though none of them came to feed off Her hand, I was amazed at how Her brain worked. For me who was hiding behind a tree with the camera, it all looked so well planned. She saw them feeding on the grains & it struck Her that if I hold the grains in my hands, they would come to me.

This is the best learning technique - observe, understand, reflect & act. Thanks Dear for teaching me new things everyday!

AT&T Jamboree'13

Saakshi enjoying on the floor with Tangerine

Thanks to AT&T for hosting the Annual Family Day. Feels great to celebrate the joy of working for a Company with your family. The event was named Jamboree and it was fun unlimited.

Games for kids, jolly rides, face painting, caricature artists, family portraits, RJ's to host the show, entertainment programs by leading artists and delicious food.

 The event began with the mob music, one of its kind experience. Every chair had a musical instrument and you could pick the one of your choice. The host who was at the center of the audience would then conduct the play. First he would ask all those who had the drums to play, then the ones with the tangerine and then both. It was a melody by design.

Saakshi, my Daughter picked the tangerine, played to Her hearts content, danced till Her legs dropped, made new friends and for us, it was a memorable evening!

Skanda & Saakshi

Skanda & Saakshi

When this photograph was taken Saakshi was 5months old. The moment She sees Him, it's smiles & laughter unlimited. She would crawl upto Him, try to hold His hands, touch His head and as you can see in this photograph, both are so happy in each others presence. Skanda would call Her Putti and She would go where ever He went. She would make sounds like trying to tell Him something. She would rains kisses on His cheeks repeatedly. She is different when Skanda is around.


I always relate this to the DNA. I love Him more than anything else in the world and it's definitely a blessing to have a Daughter who loves Him more than I do. You don't teach the essence of blood relations, it's passed on genetically. Now She is 15months old & as soon as She sees my Sister Ramya, the first words out of Her mouth are "ANNA" (brother). I feel blessed - Om Sai Ram!


When She is alone at home, the moment I say Saakshi look Skanda has come, She rushes to the door with the broad smile. Even when I show His photograph on my cellphone, She smiles, cheers up and calls "ANNA". Sometimes She picks up the phone and holds it to Her ear and walks talking loudly (though the words are not clear), I can sense from Her reaction that She may be trying to reach Her brother Skanda.

I shall cherish these moments of togetherness, their smile, laughter, joy & play.

put Her to sleep

Had read about the feeling of putting a baby to sleep, but had only one opportunity earlier to do so. It was my Dear nephew Skanda who fell asleep on my shoulders. It was bliss and was longing for that feeling for a real long time. The wish was fulfilled by my Daughter.

She was 15days old when this photograph was taken. After Her bath & feeding, I held Her in my arms for Her to burp. She fell asleep on my shoulder and the joy was so immense that even I fell asleep. It was only two hours later that we woke up. Her tender skin, Her tiny clasp and slow breathing, cuddling to my chest - couldn't ask more of life.

She is 16months old and more than I do, She enjoys sleeping clinging to my chest. She wakes up with a smile and with Her sweet words "Appa"and the sweetest kiss, we both are off to play.

My Daughter & the Bag

Life is joy when I'm with my Nephew Skanda or My Daughter Saakshi. There is always something that we do for fun, laughter & love. The reactions are spontaneous & we get creative with any prop that is lying around, like this instance when I took My Daughter to our room to get the bag for their trip to our native.

The moment She saw the bag, She started playing with it, trying to hang it on Her shoulders, drag it &  toss it around. Seeing this play, I gently placed Her inside the bag & She was all smiles, She enjoyed being there.

She decided to play hide & seek & for a flexible body that She has, it was a easy fit in that small bag. She wanted Her Grandfather & Mother see this & play along. We played till our stomach hurt by the continuous laughter.

It was fun & I feel this is Life's way of telling "Live the Moment".

4th Wedding Anniversary

18th Jan 2010 was the Day 1of entering a new phase of life - Marriage!

Wedding is the day whereas Marriage is a life long affair. The journey has been wonderful with a companion as accommodating as my lovely wife Srividya. Unlike any other, the emotions have been the same, moments of joy, laughter, sorrow, anger, depression, anxiety & curiosity. We had made a commitment to trust each other & have faith in our relationship that would last forever and now after four years when I look back, we have stood by that.

She has given the greatest gift to our Family - a ball of love, my Daughter!

Colors & Smiles of Life

Both the families couldn't be any more happier than what it is without the values upheld by Her. Paying attention to finer details of Her speech, thoughts & choice of words, She has done a marvelous connection with everyone. Her respect, love & care is impartial.

With Blessing from Parents & wishes from the Family, sure to lead our marriage to the Golden Jubilee!

When Dad finally asked...

I am 34 years & 3 months and what happened today was surprising, made me feel good and there was a hidden lesson which I'm glad to have read and hope to maintain forever.

My Father has always been in the habit of giving, proactive to the core, never missed an errand, never shopped for self & till date hasn't asked "I want this". He is a duty bound individual for whom it's always about responsibility as a Father, Husband, Friend and a relative. Mother would only tell the groceries needs to be looked at, He would instantly do a survey, prepare the list in His mind and within hours the store room would be full with everything that Mom would need. When it comes to finance, He is the Best, rushes to the bank without any delay to deposit and questions if it is really necessary to withdraw if He has to. His mantra for savings has been simple "go running to the bank if you have to deposit & crying if you have to withdraw". The electricity bill is delivered at 1100 hours and by 1130 hours He would have paid the same.

LEGEND - My Father

While we were having a casual conversation this evening, He asked "Doni (that's what He calls me) I need a track suit with pockets". For a moment I could not believe my own ears, this was the first time He has asked me or anybody for something. I immediately took His specifications and it was the greatest pleasure - buying Him what He has asked.

What would have the Man felt? who never asked anyone for anything, to ask for something. I don't know the reasons nor do i want to know, but the immense joy in being felt responsible from my Father is the greatest reason to celebrate. I too shall strive hard to walk in His footsteps, be independent, be caring, always have an escape route (that's what He says) and proactively assume responsibility towards everything in life.

I DON'T NEED A LEGEND TO FOLLOW, I HAVE BEEN RAISED BY ONE!

a reason to the end

7th Aug'13: The day would have been like any other had it not been for the muscle catch on the lower back when Amma was about to sleep. Blame it on the cot which was high

8th Aug'13: Amma could not bear the pain and She was taken to Berunda clinic where She was given a muscle relaxant injection and pain killer pills

9th and 10th Aug'13: The pain just did not reduce, Amma found it very difficult to walk, sit or sleep. She is able to walk with the support of the walker

11th Aug'13: Amma experienced pain in the right shoulder which was severe. The pain in the lower back has just not reduced

12th Aug'13: On consulting the physician we had visited on 8th Aug, he changed the pain killers. The pain in the right shoulder and lower back just did not reduce. It has been four days since She has slept. Anna is doing the massage everyday.

13th Aug'13: Took Amma to Jayanagar Orthopedic Center. The X-ray reports showed no signs of injury to the lower back or the right shoulder. She was given Inac injection to reduce the pain.

14th Aug'13: At 0600 hrs, Amma found it very difficult to breathe. Blisters started forming on the right arm and they bursted with clear fluid oozing out. She was given nebulization by our neighbour untill the ambulance arrived. The saturation has dropped and Her blood pressure was dropping. On reaching Apollo Hospital Bannerghatta Road at 0900 hrs, She was tired and was in a state of shock. Doctors confirmed that the blood was infected, She is in a critical state and had to be admitted to ICU. Due to non-availability of ICU ward there, She was shifted in the ambulance to the Jayanagar branch. She was still on nebulizer with the blisters forming and bursting. The doctors in the emergency informed me that Amma is in a critical condition, the internal organs have gone into shock and if the renal function does not reinstate, She will experience multiple organ failure. Amma was quickly shifted to ICU where the treatment began. In the evening, a minor surgery was done on the right arm to clear the clot which prevented the blood flow from the wrist to the finger tips. When the doctors called me for the consent to place Her on ventilator, Amma was awake but now unable to speak because of the oxygen mask. I assured Amma that the right shoulder is now fixed and She would be back to normal very soon. I asked Amma to be brave and told Her that She is in a shock since morning, She needs to focus on deep breathing and everything will be fine. She nodded Her head neutrally. The duty doctor mentioned that the kidney is not functioning as expected and is still in a state of shock.

15th Aug'13: At 0900 hrs when i saw Amma, She was in deep sleep because of the anesthesia that was administered to place Her on the ventilator. Her right arm was still in the sling. Her left arm had turned bluish black in color and when i felt it, it was cold. Amma did not respond when i touched Her forehead and pressed Her hands. The doctor mentioned that Her blood pressure is not stabilizing and the kidney output is very low. At 1130 hrs, Anna came and both of us went to visit Amma. Amma had a cardiac arrest and all attempts to reinstate failed. Amma left at 1220 hrs. She looked like She was in a deep sleep and we could not wake Her up.

1630 hrs, Amma visited Her home. Hundreds thronged the place to pay their respects. 1730 hrs Amma left Home and 1900 hrs Her mortal remains turned to ashes.

17th Aug'13: Ashes made one with the river Kaveri at Paschimavahani, Srirangapatna

ಅಮ್ಮ

" ನನ್ನ ಅಮ್ಮ "

ನವಮಾಸ ನಿನ್ನ ಒಡಲೊಳಗೆ ನನ್ನ ಹೊತ್ತು
ಭುವಿಗೆ ಸ್ವಾಗತಿಸಿದ ಅಮ್ಮನಿಗೆ ನಮೋ ನಮಃ
ನಾನು ನಾನಾಗಲು ಪ್ರೇರೇಪಿಸಿದ ತಾಯಿಯೇ ನಮೋ ನಮಃ

ಅಕ್ಷರ ಮಾಲೆಯ ಅಕ್ಕರದಿ ಕಲಿಸಿ
ನೀತಿ ಪಾಟಗಳ ಸನ್ಮಾರ್ಗದಲಿ ನಡೆಸಿದ
ನನ್ನ ಪ್ರೀತಿಯ ಗುರುವೇ  ನಮೋ ನಮಃ

ನನ್ನ ಆಟ ಪಾಟಗಳಲಿ ಹರುಷವ ಕಂಡು
ನನ್ನ ನೋವನ್ನು ನಿನ್ನ ನೋವೆಂದು ನೊಂದು
ಉಸಿರಿಗೆ ಉಸಿರಾದ ಉಸಿರೇ ನಮೋ ನಮಃ

ರಸದೂಟವ ನನಗೆಂದು ಉಣ ಬಡಿಸಿ
ಅದರ ಸವಿಯಲ್ಲೇ ತಂಗಳನ್ನವ ಉಂಡು
ಪೋಷಿಸಿದ ಅನ್ನಪೂರ್ಣಳೆ ನಮೋ ನಮಃ

ಸಂಸಾರ ನಾವೆಯ ನಗುವಿಂದಲೇ ಸಾಗಿಸಿ
ಸೂರಾದೆ ನೀ ಕಷ್ಟಗಳ ಮಳೆ ಸುರಿಯೆ
ನನ್ನ ದೈನಂದಿನ ಶಕ್ತಿಯೇ ನಮೋ ನಮಃ

ಕಾರಣವಿಲ್ಲದೆ ಕಾರಣವಾದ
ನಗುತಲಿ ಅಳುವುದ ಸಾರಿ ಹೋದ
ನನ್ನ ಜೀವನದಿಯೇ ನಮೋ ನಮಃ

ಆ ದಿನದ ನನ್ನ ಅಳು ನಿನ್ನ ನಗು
ಈ ದಿನದ ನಿನ್ನ ನಗು ನನ್ನ ಅಳು
ಆ ಪರಮಾತ್ಮನಿಗೇ ಒಗಟು ಹೇಳಿದ ಸುಚರಿತಳೇ ನಮೋ ನಮಃ

ವಿದಾಯ ಹೇಳಿ ನಾ ದೂರವಾಗಲಾರೆ
ಕಣ್ಣೀರಿಟ್ಟು ನಿನ್ನ ನಾ ಹೋಗಿ ಬಾ ಎಂದ್ದೆನ್ನಲಾರೆ
ಮರಣವೇ ಸತ್ಯವಾದರೆ ಆ ಮರಣದ ಮೇಲಾಣೆ
ಮತ್ತೆ ಹುಟ್ಟಿ ಬರುವೆ ನಾ ನಿನ್ನ ಕಂದನಾಗಿ

ಜನ್ಮವಿತ್ತ ಅಮ್ಮನಿಗೆ ನಿನ್ನ ಮಗ ವಿಶ್ವನಾಥನ ಅಶ್ರು ತರ್ಪಣ

ಹೊಸಾರಂಭ

ಎಂದೂ ಮರೆಯದ ಪ್ರೇಮ ಕಥೆ ! ಆ ದೇವರೇ ನನಗಾಗಿ ಭುವಿಯ ಮೇಲೆ ಮಳೆಗರೆದ  ನನ್ನ ಮುದ್ದಿನ ಚೆಲುವೆಯ ವಲವ ಕಥೆ. ಆ ಮುದ್ದು ಮೊಗವನ್ನು ನೋಡಿದ ಮೊದಲ ಕ್ಷಣದಿಂದ ಹೃದಯದ ಬಡಿತವೇ ಮೆಲುವಾಗಿ, ಒಂದೊಂದು ಭಡಿತವು ಒಂದೊಂದು ಹೊಸ ಜೀವವಾಗಿ, ಹೊಸ ಹುರುಪನ್ನು ಹಾಸ್ಸಿಟ್ಟು, ಮುಂಬರುವ ಕ್ಷಣಗಳ ಹಾತರದಿ ಎದುರು ನೋಡುವ ಈ ಜೀವನದ ಕನಸೇ ಮಧುರ. 

ಅವಳ ತುಂಟು ನಗೆ, ಚೀರಾಟ, ಅಳು, ಅಳಿಲಿನಂತೆ ಚೆಂಚಲವಾದ ಅವಳ ಭಾವ ಭಂಗಿ, ಒಂದು ನಿಮಿಷದಿ ಹತ್ತಾರು ಹೊಸ ಮುಖಗಳ ತೋರುವ ಅವಳೇ ನನ್ನ ಪ್ರಪಂಚ. ಬಾ ನನನ್ನು ತಬ್ಬಿಕೋ ಎಂದು ಕಣ್ಣಲೇ ಹೇಳುವ ಅವಳ ಪರಿ, ಪ್ರಪಂಚದ ಅರಿವೇ ಇಲ್ಲದೆ ನನ್ನ ಭುಜದ ಮೇಲೆ ತಲೆಯನಿಟ್ಟು ಹಾಯಾಗಿ ಮಲಗಿ, ಎದ್ದ ಕೂಡಲೇ ಬಾಚಿ ತಬ್ಬಿಕೊಂಡು, ಮುತ್ತಿಟು ನಗಿಸುವ ನನ್ನ ಒಲವಿರಲು, ಇದೆ ನನ್ನ ಸ್ವರ್ಗ!!!

A Birthday Gift to Skanda

Time flies and everyone stands testimony to the fact, there's no denying of the years past which leaves behind wonderful memories in it's trail... With numerous things that money can buy as presents, I wanted to freeze the memories till date, leaving opportunity to add more with the wings of Life. It was decided that Skanda shall have a wall of memories!

My Lovely Nephew, the Fighter - SKANDA!

Having sorted all the photographs, analyzing if they covered every aspect, 26 frames were framed with 65 photographs in it. Though a few frames were not as specified by me to the photo frames person, it still looked good.

"The Collage"

Kiran & I spent more than an hour, arranging them on the floor - we wanted the Best possible collage. With skillful measurements, they were then nailed to the wall. Am sure this would be a highlight as soon as someone visits Skanda's Home.

ಪಿಂಟಿಗೆ ಜೈ !

A Trailer of 9 days - Sankranti 2013

After my Sister's wedding the festival Sankranti had lost it's charm, but, not again!

Since my in-laws did not have any festivals this year due to the demise of Vidya's Grandmother, she was home for 9 days and the 9 days gave a trailer of what to expect when she finally comes home after the completion of 5 months in Her Mother's place.

Jan12th 2013 - Jan 21st 2013: Kiran & Ramya escorted the Princess home on Jan12th and what you read on from now is a treasury of joy, fun and laughter.

She likes the oil massage before the shower but doesn't find the shower that interesting and cries, sort of pleading no no no - I don't want to take bath. Immediately after the bath she is wrapped in a white cloth and off She goes to sleep. Wakes up with a smile irrespective of who She sees first. She likes the make-up and dressing and as soon as the nappy is wet She cries - clean to the core.

On the day of the Festival She wore a silk dress and at that moment all the elders had become kids - fighting over who will hold the bundle of joy - My Princess!
She was quiet when we took Her to Vijaya aunty, Nirmala aunty, Vani and Deepu's house for the tradition of Sankranti. I wanted Her to get accustomed to the meaningless horns of vehicles in Bangalore and She did well without any crying.

Evening was the traditional aarti done by Ramya and Amma for Skanda and the Baby.

Amma calls her Ammuchi, Anna calls her Totakka, Ramya calls her Bangari, Kiran calls her Subbi, Skanda calls her Putti, Vidya calls her Chinnu and I call her Punchirabbit and She likes all of it responding with her naughty smile and crazy sounds.

She loves the oil massage in the evening, after which She is all the more active. She wants to play when all of us want to sleep. She likes sucking her fingers and She has a combination of the left and the right hand fingers - when She doesn't get the combination correct, She cries at Her own self.

9 days passed like a 3 minute trailer and we shall eagerly wait for Her return.

A sweet Blessing - My Baby Angel

In Her sweet smile I float on clouds, Her cries louder than thunder and She is Bliss when She is asleep. The wait for Her arrival seemed never ending and the moment was tense when She arrived on 20th October 2012 at 0847 Hrs. At that moment I was on cloud nine and in trance as well. Vidya and I were blessed with what we wanted the most - an Angel to be amidst us in our beautiful life.

9 months 9 days, 1st Day & 1st hug

A cute angel with sparkling eyes and a sweet smile. She is now two and a half months and I already have hundred of pages to be written on her naughty notorious activities. She has various cry signals for the different needs and it took Vidya some time to observe and understand. She loves to be in my arms and what more of life shall I ask when GOD has blessed you with the precious gift. She mesmerizes everyone with Her cute lovely outfits and the sounds derived from the depths of Her heart.

Time flies in Her presence and all worries disappear. She is Heaven on earth, She is the light of my eyes, air of my breath and the beat of my heart... She is my Daughter and I am proud !!!

Camel ride with Pinti

March 11th 2010...

A fun filled day for me and Pinti. I was back from work and there was this man on the road with his Camel. 

I took Pinti on a ride and earned a ride for me as well!!!

The joy on his face simply cannot be described in words - it's an experience and you have to be a part of it know how it feels like :)

Welcoming the Jr

I always liked the tradition of celebrating Life! 

What more joy can life give you than a celebration to welcome a new life into the world, our family, to our lives and hearts? Blessed I am to be with the most caring parents, a loving sister, concerned brother in law, lovely nephew and a second mother - my wife! 

My love also goes to all the true relatives and friends who have been a part of this wonderful life.

My baby completed five months in the warmth of its Mothers belly and as is the tradition, we celebrated the occasion through the Srimantha. Friends and Family gathered to shower wishes and blessings for the two of them.

A little research on the tradition: The word Seemantham refers to a parting of the hair just above the eyebrow where the Goddess of Wealth, Sri Mahalakshmi, resides. This leads to the practice of applying kumkum to the parting in order to propitiate the Goddess Sri Lakshmi such that when a woman delivers a child, she is considered the embodiment of the Goddess Lakshmi herself.

From the day of formation in its mother's womb, a child grows in different stages, each with a stipulated time frame. Accordingly, although brain formation takes much earlier, memory cells are said to start activating on the completion of seven months of pregnancy. Thereafter, the unborn child can record sounds and vibrations from its surroundings.

In order to format the brain in an optimal condition, Vedic tradition calls for the recitals of relics and verses known as Udhagasanthi or Uthakashanthi Japam in a soft but powerful mantra recital that lasts for about an hour and a half. On completion of this japam (recitals), the pregnant woman is bathed in cold holy water, without the addition of any warm or hot water. This takes places even as late in the evening whereupon the child in the womb shakes and jerks from the stimulation of the cold water. 

The specific function of japam is to give a solid state of mind in preparation for the child's birth through a positive vibration from the recited Mantras that provides sufficient strength to the child in the womb, and creates an atmosphere conducive to the earthly possessives on his or her birth.

Each Vedic mantra is designed for a specific stimulation, so that its phonetic vibration attains its fullest value. Udhakasanthi Japam gives confidence to the pregnant women and also increases her mental strength, with supportive gathering members blessing the child and mother for a normal delivery. 

^{The essence of the Vedic tradition brings relation to reality and though I don't understand much, I do believe and have faith that a monkey could fly across an ocean.}

Savings for a cause

I found this candy box in Aegis cafeteria at the tea stall very attractive & after a word with James (shop keeper), he gave it to me once the box was empty. I had such a liking to the shape of the box, wanted to put it to good use.

Installed it next to Sai Baba’s idol in my room & whenever I got coins as balance for anything that I purchased, I started dropping it in this box. I think I had this box installed sometime in March 2010 & it was in October 2011 that the box was full with coins & a few notes.

Vidya wanted to count the currency on my Birthday – the 17^th Of October. Dad & Vidya sat down for the task & it took them an hour to count & re-count for confirmation. The total was 2500 INR.

It was as though all our minds were tuned to the same frequency by some unknown force – the three of us wanted to use that money to help someone in need. We decided we will donate that to Harohalli School for the differently able children  & on Children’s day, the 14^th of November, I & Dad attended the children’s day celebration at the school & donated the money for a cause.

I would like to thank my parents who taught me the practical way of “sharing is caring” & my Wife who reciprocates the frequency of my mind. I am happy that a small saving was used for a good cause & promised myself to continue the exercise till as far as I can.

Thai_Malaysia_Singapore

Inspired by Quotations & dreams I have conquered a few of the things which make me proud “that I have lived” & inspire me to strike off all that is there on My Bucket List. 

One such item on the list was to travel to an international destination with my better half – my wife.

The research of the top rated travels ended with SOTC (not sure what the abbreviation is) & the hardest part was easily solved with their list of packages & wasn’t hard at all to freeze on Thai_Malaysia_Singapore – a 10Nights 11Days package. The dates mentioned on the itinerary seemed possible from the work load perspective at office.

Though the visa, tickets & accommodation was handled by SOTC, Vidya had to do pre-shopping for the trip & I was busy with the other logistics – currency, the to-do list & a whole lot of browsing for the pros & cons.

The booking was made & the departure day wasn’t far behind, infact arrived very soon. Hired a citi taxi to reach the Bengalooru International Airport to board the flight to Colombo (Srilanka). First experience to Vidya & she was thrilled with the Journey. A short break in Colombo & then boarded the connecting flight to Bangkok.

Reached Bangkok at 0600 Hrs & ran into a whole load of confusion – our arrival was missed by the SOTC person there. Had to call the contact & then on a self hired taxi reached the All Seasons Hotel. We were greeted by the SOTC tour Manager Adil who was a nice man. Another 2 hours wait in the lobby before we got our room. Hungry by the journey, we headed out to 7/11, that’s a super market where we managed to pick up some bread, jam & biscuits for our breakfast.

Arrived at the 1st Destination

It was 1130 Hrs when we took a shower & were ready to explore Bangkok on our own. It was nice of Adil to have mentioned to us to the different modes of travel to go around the city. And the inland waterways was infact the most convenient because it was a two minutes walk to the jetty. The first of its kind experience to the two of us – standing on the boat with side curtains to avoid the spray of the water. Had we travelled by a taxi, we would have shelled out 250-300 bhats one way from Ramkhameng to Pratunam, but the boat only cost us 32 bhats for the round trip.

Walking across the street of the Platinum Fashion mall we met a good Samaritan who greeted us & mentioned that it was the Lucky Buddha day & we must visit the temple & seek blessings. He even arranged a Tuk-Tuk for only 30 bhats to take us round the temple & then drop us at MBK – one of the biggest shopping malls in Bangkok.

Unconsciously the shopping had begun – I guess that’s the way the color & of the stalls were set up in MBK. Without risking time, we managed to get back to the Hotel & were ready by 1930 Hrs for the dinner. The vehicle was on time & our dinner was at Hotel Ashoka – an Indian restaurant. The food was good. Could we have complained with the least choices available for a vegetarian in Bangkok? I guess not.

Next day started with a long drive to the Safari World. Wonderful layout designed for the wild animals – we felt we were in the cage because the animals & birds were roaming freely. It was a wonderful experience to see the Tiger & the Lion at an arms distance.

Safari World

After watching the wonderful Orangutan, Sea Lion, Dolphin, Star Wars & the Stunt show we drove back to the Hotel. After dinner we explored the street shopping which was a 3 minute walk from the hotel. We walked till the end of the road & forced ourselves back to the hotel. Once at the hotel, it was a drill of rechecking the goods that we had brought till now.

Safari World

Day three was free to do things on our own & what would anyone do in Bangkok – shopping of course. By now we were confident of the little adventure water way route to where we wanted to go. Guess we were a little early for shopping, had to wait relaxing on the roadside watching life till the malls & stalls opened. By 1100 hrs Vidya was into full fledge shopping. One thing you have to remember when shopping in Thailand is – it’s okay if you don’t buy after all the enquiry, as long as you are carrying that smile on your face. Just smile & learn to say “no thanks”. 

Lunch was at a north Indian restaurant & the food was good. After lunch the shopping marathon continued & with hands loaded, we returned to the hotel by the boat. MBK & Indra regent were explored again & again today & I striked off the names of people/kids to whom I wanted to buy something from this trip of ours.  After dinner the hangover continued with a little more shopping on the street side.

Shopping & Tuk-Tuk

The following day was a city tour. Golden Buddha, Reclining Buddha, China Town, Victory Monument, Gems Factory were all covered by afternoon. Since it was only the two of us, it was a chauffeured service drive to Pattaya. We checked into Hotel Beverly Plaza & after lunch, caught a nap. The evening started with a walk into the walking street – one of its kinds in adult entertainment. Neon lights everywhere & it looked like the world had moved into slow motion.

Reclining Buddha

We were ready by 0730 Hrs for the much awaited ride on the sea to the wonderful Coral Island. Enroute we stopped for parasailing & Vidya had the time of her life flying like a bird high up in the sky. Sitting in front of the speed boat was thrilling experience. Coral Island is a beautiful white sand beach with water sports, sun & the long stretch of the beach. Wanted to do something different for lunch & we munched on corn & guava.

Flying high

The ride back was adventurous with the tide rising high. By evening we were ready for the world famous Tiffany’s Show. This is something that you cannot describe in words – you have to watch it, the stage, the colors, the costume – everything comes to life. And Vidya had an opportunity to take a few pics with the characters in the show – wonderful!

Tiffany's

Pattaya takes on a different look by sunset & we enjoyed doing a lot of things for the first time which only reminds me of “when was the last time you did something for the first time” Be there to believe it or you may choose to get lost in the illusion of the lights & noises & the girls inside the show cases.

We bid good bye to Thailand & were on the Malaysian flight by 1015 Hrs. On arrival we checked into Hotel Pearl International. Our room was on the 20^th floor with a splendid view of the city, the amazing Petronas towers & KL towers. Dining hall was located on the fifth floor with a pool & whole lot of video games & snooker. The day went slow & we were in no hurry either. After a stroll at the mall in the hotel, we headed out for dinner & met the family from Chennai who were on their vacation. A nice family who were with us till the end of our vacation (Vishwanath, Hema, Varun & Varsha). We quickly made plans for the day ahead & went back to catch a glimpse of the well lit Petronas Towers & KL Towers. It’s a great feeling being at heights, only to wake up & realize life is short – make haste.

View from the Hotel

After the routine round of American breakfast, we had a photo session by the pool & by 0900 Hrs, we along with our friends hired a taxi & were out to explore to the Batu Caves – the world’s tallest Murugan statue. Amazing lime stone formations & the wonderful caves left us wondering how much more beautiful creations of nature can be explored in this short span of life & the CTC our company offers ;)

Rest of the afternoon was a walk in the hotel mall & eagerly waiting for dinner. Star Bucks Coffee shop was a good way to spend the evening.

Batu Caves

Next day we checked out & were on a city tour visiting Petronas Towers, Lake Gardens, National Monument, National Mosque, Istana Negara & the KL Towers – which gives a 360 degree view of the beautiful city of Kuala Lumpur. Though the tour manger took us to the chocolate factory, we did not buy any (had reserved the chocolate shopping to Singapore).

After a wonderful experience at the KL Towers, we reached the foot of Genting Highlands for a memorable cable car drive through the valleys & dense vegetation of the highlands. With the mist & the cool breeze kissing our cheeks, we did not want the drive to end! On arrival we checked into the world’s largest hotel with 6187 rooms – Hotel First World. The indoor & the outdoor games drove us back to childhood & I did not want to miss the opportunity of re-living those lovely memories with the Love of my life – My cute wonderful lovely Wife! How I wish the time froze still, to give me more time to walk through the mist holding hands in hands with her. 

Cable Car - Genting Highlands

Early morning check out & the long drive to Singapore was one of its kinds experience - the stretch covered by palm trees was wonderful. Immigration to Singapore hinted at what to expect in terms of rules. We checked in Hotel Windsor on Mcpherson Road & by evening were ready for the Sentosa Visit. Beautiful manmade paradise with recreation of all kinds. The artificial beach where we spent the evening watching the sunset & walking along the beach. “Songs of the Sea” show mesmerized us with its effect which continued till our room & beyond.

Sentosa Island

Next day was the city tour visiting Swissotel, Parliament, City Hall, Fountain of Fortune & the Merlion. Marina Sands Bay & the Wheel were a delight to see & so was the National Orchid Garden. Though we visited & enjoyed the Gems factory, it was way beyond our budget to shop here. After lunch, we were on our own & we visited the famous Mustafa Center, only to realize Bangalore is the best place for shopping other than Bangkok. That did not stop Vidya from shopping & the trolley was filled after a 3 hour stroll. One last look at the store & we forced ourselves out to relax in the open field outside the center.

Merlion - Singapore

After a heavy dinner & tired with the shopping, walking, seeing & enjoying the vacation to the fullest, we were back in the room packing – now that can be challenging & tedious!

We bid good bye to Singapore & the Changi International Airport was icing on the cake with its botanical garden, Angry Birds, Merlion, line of the Famous brands & of course the Kaveri Vegetarian restaurant. Vidya updated her face book at the free internet kiosk & we boarded the flight to Srilanka.

On arrival at Srilanka, we bid good bye to our newly made friends, last few dollars spent on shopping & the big (as per star bucks it was regular) coffee. 

Changi Airport

Now we were just waiting for the Bangalore bound flight to take off to where we belong J Vidya enjoyed the Hindi movie Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara on the flight & in no time we were walking to pickup our luggage.

After dealing with the customs for the shopping we had done, we were home in a taxi. My parents were happy to see us safe & listened intently to the wonderful experience that we had brought back from our vacation.

This wonderful vacation check marks another item on my bucket list & inspires me to go for more that life has to offer.

What is Life worth if you haven’t lived chasing your Dreams???

Thanks to all those who made this a memorable vacation !