Pot Painting

The transformation of a simple clay pot.....

- Chalked by Megha...

The Palace of Illusions - A review

  The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni is Mahabharata told by Draupadi. It attempts to give voice to the heroine (or the villainess?) of Mahabharata – her travails, her innermost feelings, her confusions, predicaments and her vulnerabilities.

My verdict: This is a good first book on Mahabharata for the uninitiated ones; nothing more than that. I had to labor through the book, to keep my commitment not to leave any book unfinished.

Chitra brings the woman alive in Draupadi. The prose is dragging at many places for people familiar with the context. Unnecessary details turn the reader off.

In order to keep the readers stay with the book, some relationships and incidents are brought to focus and fictionalized (deviating from the original text?). The lead character’s enigmatic relationship with Krishna, her fascination towards Karna (I sometimes felt that the author did not bring in the extra-marital angle for fear of criticisms from self proclaimed puritans), her discontentment with the mother-in-law and the jealousy when her husbands’ court other women.

The most common rendition of Draupadi in literature and TV serials is of a highly tolerant, loving wife. The book feebly tries to question this. There are many instances where we encounter the lead character’s realization that she had been the cause of the war, the destruction, death of thousands including her kids and brother. She is mostly shown as any other female, who gets upset when other women come into the lives of men she adores. The book gets a little bit ‘Bollywood’ when the heroine and the actual hero of this book (Karna) are shown as mutual bête-noire, but carefully nurturing an admiration for each other below the surface.

I think Chitra worked on weaving a novel out of a simple situation – What happens if Draupadi tells her story? Will she talk about her hidden desires? Her hatred? Her unresolved conundrums? I don’t think there is anything wrong here. But for a discerning reader with a good understanding of Mahabharata, the story becomes a thin thread of predicable incidents, which leaves him unsatisfied.

Hence, I will not recommend this book to people who are looking at building their foundation on knowledge about Mahabharata. It best suits a starter.

PS: Microsoft Word kept warning me against using the term ‘her husbands’. Looks like they did not think of that possibility

- Chalked by Sanjay Gopinath

http://vagabondmind.blogspot.in

Farm Stay at Avalanche, Ooty

Open your eyes early morning to the dew drops on the window. Grab a hot coffee. Feel the chillness under your bare feet. Step outside to embrace the cool breeze and fall in love again and again with the lovely blue hills and lush green valley. That’s how I would remember my holiday at the Destiny Farm Stay at Avalanche, a place 30kms from Ooty.

Let me tell you, all the good adjectives multiplied by 10 would still not be enough to express the scenic beauty of this place. This trip was special for me for two reasons. One it was the venue for our anniversary celebration and secondly for the first time my husband found a place and planned a trip. I must confess that after all the destinations we went with my planning, he overtook me in choosing the best place ever.

We started from Bangalore around 4.30am and took the State Highway 17 route via Mysore->Bandipur->Masinagudi->Ooty->Avalanche. We were lucky enough to get a glimpse of one or two elephants, deers, and peacocks while passing through Bandipur Forest Reserve.

We reached Ooty around 10 am. From Ooty railway station, our vacation spot was 30kms away and the resort had provided us with the route map. Just follow the road signs directing to Avalanche and then to Emerald Dam. Reaching the dam, the tarred road turns into a mud road and we can’t complain much as we were passing through forest area.

After a bumpy ride, we reached the parking lot of the Farm from where the resort’s transport is the only way to go beyond. The car park is secure and has a small cabin for refreshing and refreshments while waiting for the vehicle. You may be taken aback by the appearance of the van as it’s a four wheel military van completely enclosed and the next 15 minutes inside the van can be shaky and fun. Hold on tight!

Once you reach the resort, you have the hospitality that is worth the money paid. We were welcomed with a mocktail but we had no time to enjoy the drink as we were already flabbergasted with the view from the restaurant. I didn’t even realize when we completed the formalities of checking in and we were already inside our room hurrying to start our adventure. Each room is named after an explorer. Ours was Captain James Cook. No matter which room you occupy, you get a fabulous view.

By then it started drizzling but that brought in a different kind of attractiveness to the place which was even more stunning. From the balcony, we could see the ducks leisurely in the pond enjoying the rain. The cows were grazing in another hill. We thought of utilizing this moment for the orientation from the resort on farm and activities followed by a quiet lunch sitting next to a window watching the splendid sight. I could see once in a while the chef running down and plucking vegetables from the farm below. Hot Thai soup, steaming rice, yummy chicken gravy, butter melting on naan…Truly delightful!

The rain stopped and we went for a walk in the farm. We were told the farm was about 120 acres and surrounded by dense forests and hence there were electric fences to keep the wild animals away.

I laughed at one of the activities which were milking the cow but when I went to the cow shed I was actually excited to see the mechanical way of doing it. Then it was the tour to the horse stable and saw a cute little foal and the mighty horses. We kept the horse riding to the next day as it was still showery.

The spa is well positioned to face the lake. That was a good way of relaxing but I didn’t get a chance to enjoy the Swedish massage as we were running out of time. So it won’t be justice to readers talking about it without experiencing it.

I don’t know how much I walked. The distance didn’t matter as my focus was on capturing spectacular landscapes in my mind and camera.

There is no TV in the room but they screen important programmes at a common space. We went there to check the IPL cricket scores and took rest for some time.

By twilight, the farm attenders were busy preparing the barbecue and bonfire. The TV room was now converted to a small discothèque with flashing lights and a DJ. Cheering the small kids dancing to the tunes of Chamak Chalo, we headed back to the open lawn. Sitting on one of the benches enjoying the warmth, we relished the barbecue dishes.

The next day morning a short walk was arranged as part of the activities but we chose to stay back. The truth was we woke up late. While the other guests were busy trekking, we hurried to the riding ground and had a jolly good time taking a stroll around on the horsebacks.

Then it was breakfast time. The buffet breakfast had a good combination of English and Indian menu.  We then went to the pond and grabbed a fishing rod and started fishing. Be it an adult or a kid, when a fish is caught, the glee is same for all. I caught a fish too after a long wait. A small one but size didn't really matter.

This place has decent outdoor activities well planned for kids and adults. We couldn’t take up much of them as I had a fractured finger. The kids will love this place. Indoor activities include children movie screening in the afternoon, a library filled with comic books and board games and a play area. The list of outdoor activities is never ending. Complimentary ones include horse riding, dairy farm visit, fishing, short distance trek and agri tour. A team of activity coordinators will assist you with artificial rock climbing, rappelling, zipline, jumaring et al that are charged extra. The farm stay invites lots of school picnics and corporate outings.

I could hear only the words “beautiful, awesome, wonderful” in the conversations of the guests.  On a closing note, I would like to quote one of the school children’s autograph in a painting gifted to the farm that I came across which I felt is very apt for this heavenly place. "We never felt so alive and free…"





Points to remember

• Remember to fill fuel from Ooty as there are no fuel stations beyond
• The last few minutes to the resort is a bumpy ride. Don’t get discouraged by it
• Remember to contact resort as soon as you reach Ooty so that the transport will be ready by the time you reach parking lot
• Tipping policy at the resort requests you not to tip any staffs for their services other than driver, bell boys and security
• Wear casual clothes and trekking shoes
• Avoid monsoon if you prefer outdoor activities unless you intent to relax choosing mostly indoor activities
• No availability of liquor at resort so manage your very own hot drinks
• Smoking & drinking at public places is prohibited
• The whole perimeter is electric fenced. So be careful while promenading 
• Early reservation is a must as there are only 25 rooms and it’s always running full and a minimum of 2 days required to enjoy all facilities of the farm stay
• I would recommend stop overs at Avalanche & Emerald Lake while returning from resort for maximum utilization of time at farm
• The resort is isolated so have your entire first aid kits and the necessities brought along

-Chalked by Rashmi

Trust & Assurance

How many of you had a restless day after watching the episode on Child Molestation in the programme Satyameva Jayathe? Was it the thought of how animalistic humans can become or an earlier encounter with such psychos that bothered you? Well for me, it was the mental trauma of kids when facing the fact that their parents did not believe them.

There have been times when I too complained about misbehavior or eve teasing that disturbed me but I was asked to ignore them. Later I have got into lots of trouble but I found my own solutions in which some of the issues were messed up even more with my immature handling.  I always was of the impression that I had to deal with my life’s problems alone. But there were also instances where I did feel that approaching my parents would have relieved my mental burden. Maybe it was the lack of confidence that I won’t be trusted always stopped me from sharing the problem.

Whatever happens, trust your child’s words. It is not always fear and flight. Try the option of facing the fear too. You are not protecting your child by asking them to overlook such encounters. Sometimes it can save lots of lives and may not be just your kid’s future involved. When you give the slightest hint that you don’t believe in your kids, they start fighting their own battle or the worst to keep quiet and keep suffering. If my parents don’t believe me, then who will?  It’s like struggling in a quicksand where you get sucked in more and more with no route to escape. Believe me; you definitely don’t want your kids trapped there.

-Chalked by Rashmi

Golden Temple - Coorg

As you travel across the lush greenery and villages of kushalnagar in Coorg, you will never expect to see a scene like this. The environment is suddenly transformed and you can feel the Tibetan air touching you!

Even when you have reached the spot, except for the many Tibetan faces and shops with Tibetan décor items and momos, you wouldn’t be too prepared for what you are about to see.

Silence speaks as we enter the gates. The air is filled with the sounds of nature, and the bright and bold dome awaiting us in the mid of the grounds offers a breathtaking view.

                                                                              

The insides are not less awesome.... three gold statues stand proud and high welcoming you to a world of tranquility.

                          

Outside, the walls are laid with these silver drums which make a soft sounds when turned. Monks use this as a prayer ritual.The symbolic flags and the monks themselves dressed in their maroon uniforms, add mroe colour to the scene.

        

- Chalked by Megha Kuruvilla

The Facebook Phase!!!

Just the other day I caught myself red handed .... thinking in terms of facebook status messages!

Although it was funny at start, later I was wondering what's wrong with me. Am I obsessed with the social networking funda ...or is it just a minor symptom to ring the bell and stop me from getting there.?!

Whatever it is, I'm sure that lately my fb addiction has increased a tiny winy bit....and now i recognize ...its changing the way i think !!!

So what's it that has made face book so famous and what's that one string its originators struck right in the entire human population's minds.

** This social sharing concept has affected us so much these days that the first thought on every photo we click, is whether it'll look good on  face book and how many of our social circles would like/comment on it. Every dress, styles, jobs, and even the Person is evaluated based on the number of likes\comments we receive for it!

** The don't tell mama trick no longer works...cos most probably, even before you reach home from the so called study tour,  your mom would have noticed her kid tagged in one of the cool party pics, by one of the buddies!

So that's how our life has become.. an open book. As long as you don't indulge too much in the privacy settings of your account, you and your life is accessible to anyone anywhere anytime!!!

** On one hand this may prove good, the feeling that anything and everything we do is gonna be out there for everyone to see, makes us more cautious and responsible about ourselves!

** Often there are problems we are involved in, for which we struggle to find solutions! Sometimes we turn the world upside down in search of a solution when it would be actually hiding behind our door!!!

Its a very common scenario and it happens mostly because we are in too much of a hurry or anxiety to stop and think about the actual issue. Calming down and thinking about the problem would give us a better perspective and new ways of solving ti effectively.....Summarizing the moment in few words, could actually be a help in this regard! :)

so there does seem to be an upside to face booking too rite? .... but then there is a downside too .....

** It's true that  "sharing it with someone makes the moment all the more special". But then there is a bold dark line between the shareable and unshareable things of life too! Remember ... no matter what happens with your life, whether good or ugly...  there are always people out there who could make a joke out of it... may not always prove to be a good picture for you and your folks!..so beware and think before you post!

Take care..... 

- Chalked by Megha Kuruvilla

Theyyam - A remarkable sacred art form of God’s own Country

Though I had read and seen it all in the media, it was my first face-to-face introduction with one of the most vibrant ritualistic dance found in North Kerala. Pottan Theyyam… I watched the entire five hour performance with awe.



Preparations for the Theyyam



The ceremony began late evening with what is called “Thottam Pattu” which was story recital on origin of Pottam Theyyam. The story goes like this. When Sree Sankaracharya was going to ascend Sarwanjha Peedam, Lord Siva decided to test his knowledge and appeared before him disguised as a Dalit. Siva approached as 'Pulapottan', along with 'Pulachamundi'(Goddess Parvathy ) and, 'Pulamaruthan' (his minister Nadikesan). Sankaracharya requested them to move away from his path as he did not want to be contaminated by coming near to the lower caste. 'Pottan' debated with Sankaracharya saying that “it is same blood that flows through our veins” and “we reap the rice and that is served as food for you”. Thus revealing the emptiness of caste system which splits the humanity into foolish fragments and enlightening Sankaracharya.

Thottam Pattu is followed by the arrival of the Theyyam  as "Pulamaruthan", " Pulapottan" and "Pulachamundi" robed in ribbons of coconut leaves and different masks of deities. You could hear the anklets as Theyyam moves around interacting with people and giving the blessings. In between, the performer moves round and round and the “tantris” suddenly clash the burning logs sending out sparks on the Theyyam giving a fierce atmosphere.

Though the Pulapottan was comical and fun, making sarcastic comments on the elders of the ancestral house asking if they were serving the gods well, I was dumbstruck during the performance of lying over the red-hot embers. That was an extreme display beyond human ability. It was mid-summer and we couldn’t stand next to the heap of burning charcoal due to the heat. And here, Theyyam was refusing to get up from the scorching ashes till the spectators constantly requested and accepted his terms.

After this scary portion, it was time for Theyyam to have one on one session (literally) with each of the devotee asking their issues and concerns and consoling them with his blessings and advices. And then the performance ends with a sacrifice and a promise that his presence will be there always.

Pottan Theyyam is certainly a breath-taking watch giving you mixed emotions with the whole ambience of fire and sparks, sounds of anklets ,spells and colorful masks and funny remarks from Theyyam himself.

-Chalked by Rashmi

Caramel Custard Pudding

Ingredients:

0.5 ltrs milk

4 eggs

1 tin condensed milk

Vanilla essence – 1 tsp

Method:

* In a vessel (preferable aluminium) put enough sugar to cover the bottom surface and heat on stove.

When golden brown remove from fire and keep aside to cool . The bottom surface should be fully covered by tht layer… be careful not to overdo melting, cos if burnt off it will taste bitter.

* In another vessel  beat 4 eggs , mix the milk and condensed milk.

* Mix well and add vanilla essence as required for taste.

* Once the caramelized vessel is set, pour the above mixture on top of it.

* Double boil, or put in a steamer to cook.

* Can be considered done once the surface has thickened.

* Remove and allow to cool. Keep in fridge after that.

* Serving: topple the vessel contents onto a plate… so that caramelized side is on top. Cut as required and serve with the caramel liquid.

- Chalked by Megha Kuruvilla

To upcycle used glass bottles

• Clean the glass bottle well to remove grease and dirt.
• Use Fevicryl ceramic colours to apply color. Dabbing with a piece of sponge will add a special effect.
• Apply two coats of the same.
• We can use two colours together to enhance the effect.
• Allow to dry for about 2 hours.
• Use fevicryl 3D outliners to draw motifs.
• Stick kundan stones or sequences on the bottle.
• Use the same coloured thread for wrapping the bottle neck.
• Finally give two coats of clear varnish to give shining effect and to protect form dust.

-Chalked by Jothi Vinod

Matheran – Where Roads are for Pedestrians and Horses…

Matheran, a Hill Station in Raigad district, Maharashtra is also an eco-sensitive zone. Matheran which means "forest on the head" (of the mountain) is situated on the Western Ghats at a height of around 2,625 feet above sea level. Its vicinity to the Metros i.e. Mumbai and Pune at an approximate radius of 100-110 kms makes it a popular weekend getaway.

It is one of the few places in the world where automobiles of any means are not permitted, which brands this place as an epitome of peace. This hill station gives you a feel of living in the yesteryears. The roads are not metaled and are made of red laterite earth. You can ride a horse, sit in a man pulled rickshaw or tread along with your soul.

Considering Matheran as the smallest hill station in India, almost all tourist sites and attractions are found a stone’s throw away from each other. You can stroll in and around the town without much exertion. There are lots of viewpoints (around 38 to be specific) that offer spectacular sights of the surrounding hills and valleys. From these points, the view of sunset and sunrise is awesome.

Comfortable accommodations are available at reasonable prices. Do step into the lively and buzzing bazaars in Matheran. The place is safe all throughout the day and night. Here man and nature lives at peace.

Reaching there

Matheran is connected to the town of Neral which lies at the base of the hills. A tar road connects Neral to Dasturi Naka which is 9 km (5.6 mi) from Matheran. In order to maintain Matheran's uniqueness, no vehicles are allowed beyond this point. The other mode of transport is a 2 ft  (610 mm) railway line, which links the town to Neral. So you can take a 2 hr ride in the mini train to reach Matheran. Neral also has a broad gauge station which is on the busy Mumbai-Pune route. Neral is well connected by railway line with Karjat being the nearest Junction. 

-Chalked by Rashmi

Carrot Milkshake

Ingredients:

Carrot- 1/2 medium size(grated)

Milk-1/2 ltr

Vanilla essence-few drops

Cardamom powder-small pinch

Sugar-2tbsp

Condensedmilk-1 tbsp (optional)

Water-1cup

Ice cubes-2/3

Method:

2 ways u can make this shake ..

I.       Blend all ingredients together &pour it in a tall glass, serve with chilled ice cubes.

         II.       Boil the carrot & make a paste of it. Then mix with above ingredients

-Chalked by Sai Priya

Kahaani (Story)

Popcorn with Prem...

On a Friday evening at work when my friends called me to ask if I wanted to join them for yet another Vidya Balan movie I was quite sceptical. Being an ardent admirer and fan of her work I must admit I was disappointed watching The Dirty Picture. Contrary to popular opinion that The Dirty Picture was her best work to date I refused to believe so. I had never heard of Kahani until Friday and decided not to look into reviews and just go with a empty mind and zero expectations.

Two hours after watching the movie I must say, this is Vidya Balan’s best work to date and this will make her a possible candidate for yet another National Award. The movie trailer gives the gist of the story but the underlying suspense that is so beautifully woven into the script by Sujoy Ghosh, Suresh Nair & Nikhil Vyas.

The movie starts with a terrorist attack on Kolkata Metro train when a gas explosion causes the death of 100 commuters. No one claims responsibility and the case loses importance as days pass by. 2 years later, Mrs.Vidya Bagchi (Vidya Balan) a software engineer arrives at Kolkata International Airport from London in search of her missing husband, Arnab Bagchi. She is pregnant and travels to the Kalighat police station to file a missing person report but her report fails to make much headway into the heaps of unsolved cases yet to be looked into. Kharaj and Rana (Parambrata Chatterjee) are the 2 inspectors available there who question her. She shows a picture of her and her husband to them. Rana then takes her to the Monalisa Guest House, where her husband stayed when he came to Kolkata, but the receptionist at the guest house claims person with such name was never there.

 

Vidya becomes upset and decides to stay back in the guest house and solve the mystery herself. This takes her to the National data Centre where her husband was sent for an assignment. HR Exec tells her that this person never worked there however when Vidya shows his photograph she recognises the face. She believes it resembles an ex employee by the name of Milan Damji whose records are beyond her pay grade. At this point the movie had hit a Hollywood flavour and to my utter surprise was doing better at keeping my attention.

Meanwhile, Vidya befriends Rana, the local inspector and he helps her in every way to find the husband. She decides to find Milan Damji hoping that when she find him he will lead her Arnab. IB officer Khan from Delhi is sent to look into the case. In the mean time the movie takes an shocking twist when a simple looking Life Insurance Agent Bob Bishwas (Saswata Chatterjee) kills the HR Exec from NDC in cold blooded fashion. Turns out that Bob Bishwas is a contract killer (one of the spookiest Contract killer characters I have seen in a while).

The HR Exec’s death leads to 3 more contracts for Bob the final being Mrs Vidya Bagchi herself. Who send Bob ? Will Vidya find Arnab ? Who is Milan Damji ? Is Milan Damji and Arnab Bagchi the same person ? Is Vidya Schizophrenic ? A lot of questions arise in your mind with possible answers to none.

What happens further is the crux of the movie I classify as a MUST WATCH !!

-Chalked by Premdas Kanaran

How to Cancel Hypothecation of Bank

Documents Required:

Location:At Indira Nagar RTO, Bangalore.

1.    RC book in Original

2.    NOC from bank addressed to the RTO

3.    2 copies of Form-35 (From bank with their seal and sign)

4.    Copy of Insurance

5.    Copy of Pollution certificate

6.    A self addressed Envelope with Rs.15 stamp stick to that.

7.    A paper Folder, write your name and Vehicle number on front page (good to have)

The Process!

A.   Go to Room no-13, Counter no-09 and submit all the documents. This personnel  will check all the documents and will forward it for computer verification.

B.   At the computer section : If any fines are pending on your vehicle, they will mention that in your papers and will send it back to the person in counter no-09.

C.   He will verify again and sign the documents.

D.   Take the documents and pay the fee & fine(if applicable) in Room no-01

De-Hypothecation – Rs.100

Smart card (if you don't have) – Rs.200

E.   Collect the receipt after paying the fee. Attach the receipt to the folder and submit it at Room no-13 , counter no-06.

F.    Collect the Acknowledgment(Name and Vehicle number will be written on that)

G.    Your Documents will be couriered to your address.

TIPS:

1.    Stationary stores in BDA complex usually have Pre-stamped envelope. If you tell your requirement (transfer, de-hypothication etc) they will give you the full set with required forms.

2.    If you have all the documents, then you don't need an agent. :D

Initially i was very hesitant to go to a Government office on my own,due to the various stories we’ve heard about Bribes etc.

But after this experience.. I feel that they(RTO) have changed, it took only 30min for me to complete the whole work there. It gives me more confidence to go to government offices in future, bypassing agents.

- Chalked by Bijesh Krishnankutty