Blogs by Bipin Sharma

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Perfect blend of Samaritan and devotional touch to Kalka Mahotsav

Kalkaji Temple, the famous Siddhpeetha situated in Delhi has been buzzing with resplendent festivity off late. The Kalkaji Sajja Sewadaar Mitra Mandal, working under the aegis of Chief Priest Surendra  Nath Avadhoot had organised a six day long religious extravaganza named “Kalka Mahotsav” for the first ever time in the premises of this ancient Kali Temple.  The salient facet about this event being the fact that different renowned singers like Pankaj Dhawan, Harbans Lal Bansi, Parveen Johar, Pankaj Dhawan, Gulzari Lal were roped in for singing hymns and devotional renditions in honour of the Holy Mother for all six days from 28th November to 3rd December, 2011. The musical program commenced at 8pm in the evening and culminated by 2 am midnight with all customs and rituals. The pioneering and diligent initiative of the ardent devotees had been successful in alluring large crowds from not only the city, but also from NCR regions Gurgaon, Ghaziabad, Noida and Faridabad.

Informs Manish Mahalwal, one of the key convenors of Kalka Mahotsav, “The distinctive aspect about this event was its location which happened to be just outside the main Bhawan. In order to keep the swelling crowds under control, ample security measures had been taken, and temple volunteers like us fervently worked in tandem for ensuring the well being of devotees. Besides decking up the Temple area, the multi coloured lights added all the more charm and elegance to the overall ambience. There was exclusive provision for Prasada or Bhandara on each day of the religious event. The stupendous response to this pioneering event has inspired us to organise the same every year, and with all fervour, pomp, and show.” 

World renowned devotional singer Narender Chanchal too played a pivotal role in this brilliantly organised fest. Free blankets and clothes were distributed to destitute and orphan kids of the nearby areas. Well, a Samaritan touch to a remarkably well conceived religious carnival.

Greater Noida comes alive with mesmerizing cultural extravaganza by parichowk.com

On the eve of their fifth anniversary, www.parichowk.com…a Gateway of Greater Noida-Yamuna Expressway presented an electrifying cultural extravaganza. The entire event was an astounding spectacle of mesmerizing folk dance performances by young school kids of reputed schools of the city namely Kids Kingdom, Fr Agnel School, Greater Valley, St Joseph’s, Bhartiyam Academy, Ascent International School, Bageshree Music Institute, Kala Srijani Music Institute, Sur-Sadhna Music Institute, Kausalya World School, Ishan Institute and GNIT Girls Institute of Technology. Albeit 15th October evening happened to be Karva Chauth, the entire auditorium was a packed house thanks to kids who inspired their parents to be their guardians cum cheerleaders for such a momentous occasion. Organized at the Ishan Institute of Management & Technology Greater Noida, the event was the entire brainchild of the indefatigable Gajanan Mali, who has perpetually advocated that bonhomie among members of a city is a great growth as well as economy driver.

Radha-Krishna dance…Won the Prize of Rs 5000…by GNIT Girls Institute of Technology

The compering for the evening was done by the versatile Ashok Srivastava, President of Navratna Jan Kalyan Society Noida. Attended by the glitterati of Noida – Greater Noida notable personalities included Dr D K Garg, Chairman of the Ishan Institute, Noida’s Voice Karunesh Sharma, social worker Suneel Dwivedi, Asit Sanyal, Mansi Mahan, and Dr V P Singh. Speaking on the occasion, Gajanan Mali, the never say never die man with a missionary zeal cheered, “The genesis of this novel concept was launched on Diwali 2006 from Kailash Hospital with the lighting of the lamp by Shantonu Sen, and ever since there’s been no looking back for our remarkable portal. Parichowk.com has since its existence been playing a pivotal role in providing an online platform for sharing and exchange of information, knowledge, views, pleasures and grievances, photos and videos etc. The website owes it popularity to updated information on Authority draw results, voters list, news, messages, events, media gallery, photos, and videos etc. This websites possesses A-Z information online on schools, colleges, industries, hospitals, doctors RWAs, NGOs, Artists, Sports Persons etc The contents of the websites are being created by the visitors under controlled environment. Through this websites awareness campaigns on voter list, voting, corruption, security and civic issues etc are updated from time to time. It allows users to list property for sale purchase and renting and also listing of vacancies and resumes without any cost. On line available wanted section is immensely popular. Its SMS service of providing instant and latest information on Noida – Greater Noida –Yamuna Expressway has become popular.”

The Chief Guest Rakesh Kumar, MD, India Expo Mart  and  Executive Director, Export Council for Promotion of Handicrafts , Dr D K Garg, Chairman,  Ishan Institute of Management & Technology and Shri Aditya Ghildyal, Vice President of Association of Greater Noida Industries lighting the lamp…

The Chief Guest seemed immensely roused with the scintillating dance shows and the unstinting efforts of parichowk.com team. In his speech, he acknowledged how euphoric it meant to be associated with the parichowk.com family.

House full….gathering…..

Fr. Agnel School and GNIT Girls Institute of Technology were adjudged winners in their respective categories following which they were honoured by the judges with a special momento and cash prizes. The other awardees were Krishna Kant Singh (for promotion of culture and social service), Vikrant Bhati of St Josephs School (Sports Talent Award), Sisters Shreya and Medhavi Mangal of Aster Public Schools (Musical Talent Award), Journalist Bipin Sharma (for Special Editorial Features) and Advocate Mukesh Sharma (for Social Service).

Kumaon..Garwal Folk Dance..Fr Agnel School beautiful girls in colorful attires .
Won the First prize of Rs 5000 amongst the schools

Let’s honour the long deserving Gems of India

If India will never have another Lata Mangeshkar, then ditto holds true for legends named Amitabh Bachchan and Sachin Tendulkar. Albeit by uttering this, I neither intend to offend the present and the future legends in the making, nor wish to insinuate that the world around us will spectacle dearth of genius talents in times to come. All I wish to express is simply the fact that in the coming times, we won’t get to witness the long run of glory that these iconic figures have enjoyed, which in all likelihood seems unmatchable and unrivalled. To sustain oneself in any field be it sports or the film industry for such a long tenure, and that too with a golden run of unstinted success saga is absolutely mind blowing. Not only have these personalities been consistent prolific performers, but have also perpetually managed to outshine others from time to time. Despite having set unprecedented benchmarks in their respective fields, they had to time and again prove their mettle not because there were any doubts about their form or supremacy at any stage, but because the country as a whole audience loved watching them in full blood. Take the instance of Sachin on whom the whole Indian team virtually leans upon. In matches where you see an early Sachin dismissal, a common phenomenon is wickets tumbling in quick succession with little addition to the scoreboard. Amitabh too is certainly no exception. While present day young turks may be delivering back to back hits and in the process setting new box office records, nothing really beats the Amitabh charisma and magic. During times when Bollywood underwent a gloomy phase in context of movies failing to strike the right chord with the masses, it had been Bachchan’s magic that again redeemed the Industry and allured crowds to cinema houses. Though numerous felicitations, rewards and awards have been come these legends way in their long drawn career, what has really eluded them is the county’s most coveted ‘Bharat Ratna Award’. Quite aptly, only then will the wheel actually come the full circle for them in the literary sense. As for these two most endearing Demi Gods of the country, they are incontestably the best and the most deserving contenders for the same. And the whole country stands testimonial to that.

If the pride of the country during an internationally contested cricket match holds colossal importance, no less is the pertinence of ‘entertainment factor’ which too is extremely crucial for coping with life’s daily share of hullabaloo and incessant commotion. Simply implying that if Sachin ensures the pride of the nation through his mercurial knocks, Amitabh’s sheer assiduousness and ingeniousness ensure blockbusters on the box office, which come replete with endless entertainment and astounding social message for the cinema obsessed country. Be his action stunts, comedy moves or serious roles, he has scaled every possible realm in the field of acting. Big B and the Master Blaster have in fact, played a great role in positively shaping the outlook of most of us at some stage or the other, and in some way or the other, in life. As for Sachin, his match winning knocks and record number of tons and runs have not only made him the most enviable batsmen in the world of cricket, but have given countless euphoric moments to his countrymen. His recent invaluable contribution in helping India lift the World Cup after a long hiatus of 28 years will remain etched and fresh in our minds for times to come.

While very few would actually oppose the idea of conferring the Bharat Ratna on these ‘two’, unnecessary delay too would be akin to denying them their due just like “Justice delayed is regarded as Justice denied”.

Well for those aspiring to earn brownie points in elections and before their electorate, this is definitely an opportunity of a lifetime for all such ‘ambitious beings’ to expedite the process of bestowing the country’s top most recognition to the most deserving candidates in the contemporary times at the soonest possible. The civil society too needs to play a pivotal role in mobilizing a massive public support campaign similar to the earlier ones like the fight for justice for the slain Jessica Lal and Nitish Kataria.  

Having immortalised themselves for generations to come, the two most precious gems of our country have nothing else to prove. On the contrary, it’s the turn of all the self proclaimed fans all over the country and the globe to congregate on one forum for showering their real love and adulation on their long adored heroes who’ve been painstakingly entertaining them with their swashbuckling performances. Though the chorus is slowly but surely growing louder with every passing day, the common man has to call the shots and in fact, needs to be the change that they so earnestly wish to see in the world. While some get awarded posthumously, or post hanging their boots, Amitabh and Sachin are definitely exceptions who need to be conferred the Bharat Rana during their active working years meaning while they are still going great guns with their professional accomplishments.  

With Bharat Ratna Lata Mangeshkar’s too joining the bandwagon in asking the thespian Amitabh to be honoured with the highest civilian honour of the country, the day is not really far when the long cherished secret wish of every true Indian would come true!
   

The sheer magic of exotic Palms

Besides myriads of significant factors such as latest design architecture, location, accessibility, security provisions, tranquility factor, modern day amenities, and of course, incessant water and power supply, a mere cluster of exotic variety of palm trees in the vicinity has its own distinctive role to play. Simply so because not only do these splendid variety of palms help in providing the much needed quality lease of fresh air, but also do a world of good in sprucing up the overall ambience of the area. This is precisely the reason why most of the visionary builders, real estate developers, hoteliers and business magnates indulge in lavish palm plantation drives at the very onset of their new project launches.

The first key step post land acquisition that is being ardently followed by most noted developers is that of planting a lush breathtaking variety of palm trees. Subsequent to this ritual sort of a practice, developers get going with other infrastructure related tasks.

Delhi-NCR region in particular has witnessed a phenomenal growth in context to palm plantation drives. Quite easy to comprehend since the mere spectacle of a palm tree in a neighbourhood park, resort, golf courses, hotels, beaches, or at the entrance of a new township is a mesmerizing sight to behold. Such soul soothing and glorious is the grandeur of a palm tree that it catapults the overall ambience to unimaginable heights in the process playing a pivotal role in property appreciation.

Albeit every tree has its set share of benefits, advantages and allure, the sheer imperialness and charm of a palm tree is amazing. As one gets chatting with horticulturists and environmentalists, they too concur that palms stand apart from the rest in terms of grace and exquisiteness.

Not only does one get to see palms in the campuses of commercial establishments, hotels, MNCs, but also in residential colonies thanks to the combined efforts of RWAs and local civic authorities who combine their expertise for recreating the ageless glory of palm in their vicinity. Hailed as the “Prince of the Vegetable Garden”, Palms are believed to have a stirring and stimulating effect universally. Prime instance in this regard being the developers, builders and architects who draw a great deal of inspiration from the magnificence of these resplendent trees. Look at the Golf Home Projects of developers, and they will all be flaunting a rich assortment of palms. Most of the prospective buyers too prefer buying houses replete with a rich, verdant cultivation of palms simply because of the enormous levels of positive energy emanating from them. This in turn, is spiritually and mentally uplifting. More significantly, in these stressful and turbulent times, palms by your side play the role of a perfect stress buster. From a state of low, one instantly transcends to a state of cheerfulness and gaiety.  

Extols eminent architect Anurag Khandelwal, “Palms are blessed with numerous advantages, and no understatement when we say that this hallmark variety of tree has a holistic impact on the lives of the close by inhabitants. Numerous colonies and townships of Noida, Greater Noida, Ghaziabad and Gurgaon have been transformed into enthralling and mesmerizing, verdant heavens owing to the endemic presence of palms. Might sound bizarre, but it is mainly due to the presence of exotic species of palms that various parks have been conferred with the title of “ornamental parks”. For architects and landscapists like me, exotic trees hold colossal pertinence as they enable us to add a world of elegance to not only our new ventures, but also for sprucing up the ambience of old existing projects. As a policy, we advise our clients to allocate substantial spaces for greens. Palm tree belt is a very crucial factor in making happening cities like Noida and Gurgaon one of the most desirable and preferred residential destination of the country. Most of the reputed developers have given due connotation to palms, and this has done wonders to them both monetarily as well as on the credibility front. ”

Shares real estate expert Ajit Bajaj, “Properties boasting of a rich green belt command a staggeringly higher price compared to those with relatively less or negligible. A close friend of mine planning to sell his house decided against it when he learnt that the neighbourhood colony park engulfing his house was being decked up with palms and fanciful lights after having been in a decrepit state for years together. A mere wait of six months was worth it, since the same property witnessed an exceptional jump in the aftermath of all the revamp. Incidentally the one common link about the campuses of schools, colleges and various educational institutes all over the country is their astounding green belt comprising an affluent wide ranging variety of palms. Since palms have a diverse range to showcase, there are plenty of options to choose from. Since time immemorial, children have been involved with countless of tree plantation drives in order to consolidate the green belt and the ecology. An absolutely thrilling sight seeing activists, crusaders, government authorities along with local denizens ubiquitously taking to plantation drives since it augments a pollution free era, besides safeguarding all of us against the large looming threat of global warming.”

No better way to conclude than by redefining the Keats ageless parlance, “A tree of palm is a joy for ever”.

India Comes of age

These are surely amazing times, something unprecedented that the aam junta of Hindustan has been witness to in the recent times. Quite true, the insinuation is towards the castigatory moves against the scamsters and the sinisters who not only indulged in an all out loot fest, but have also caused a great deal of harm to the imagery of our nation on the global arena with their shameless acts of corruption.

With some of the swindlers cooling their heels behind bars now, it signifies the beginning of a ‘new era’ for the country that once earned the sobriquet “Sone Ki Chidiya”. This has to be perceived as the Victory of India, with due accolades to the colossal efforts of the two indispensable components sans which this novel chapter would have never seen the light in the very first place. These are firstly the ‘people’s power’, and secondly the exemplary role of the ‘Indian Media’ which has set astounding benchmarks for times to come. In particular, the unstinting efforts of Arnab and his team that have lead from the front in this epic war against the cancer of corruption, and in a way, directly or indirectly galvanised the entire media fraternity in their own special way with their resoluteness in unravelling scams of the highest magnitude before the public eye. Albeit the war is still far from over, the long awaited beginning has certainly been made against the influential power wielders of the country that call the shots and hold the upper hand.

Both these factors namely the power of the common man and the media have truly supplemented each other in the sense that it has been their unspoken, lethal alchemy that has clinched the battle for the innocent masses in such turbulent times. For this, these two ‘factors’ deserve a standing ovation for their steadfastness, grit and relentless pursuit for bringing the guilty to books. While the big fishes might still be roaming free, going by the startling turnaround of events in the recent times, the day is not far when these high profile bunch of crooks too would have a great re-union with their old fraudster pals (read ‘partners in crime’) who are presently lodged inside the high profile Tihar jail.

Augurs well for a society that has since time immemorial been plagued by the menace of graft and money laundering. On one side, you have the honest tax payers money going down the drains, and into the pockets of such rogues, and on the other side, you have the mind blowing price rise and the never ending 6inflation woes. Consequently, one can do little in such an eventuality except moan the state of crumbling government machinery and system on the whole.

Living on the Edge

While the government spokespersons have often gone on record to reiterate and elucidate that those daring to hold the system to ransom in a parliamentary democracy shall be sternly dealt with, what they fail to discern is that they too are not out of the purview of this diktat.

With too much water having flown under the bridge, people and the civil society are right in likening the present day anarchical situation to that of the 1975 Emergency Period. Why are our seasoned politicians intentionally feigning to be oblivious of the marked distinction between democracy and dictatorship?

Our thespian netas seem to have learnt no lessons from the recent uprisings in Egypt, Libya and Syria where the people’s power turned the tables on the long ruling dictators and their autocratic ways. Expecting the 21st century gizmo and gadgets flaunting society to toe the line of the leaders that fail to address core issues is simply preposterous.

Thanks to the media again for giving the impetus to the ever so pertinent issue of ‘black money’. Again it won’t be imprudent to be optimistic of restoring the stashed illegal money from safe tax havens overseas now that the matters have reached the crescendo.  People believe that ever since the issue started gaining momentum, it has begun sending jitters down the spines of the culpable coteries.

All said and done, the prevalent wave sweeping all over the length and breadth in the new age India seems to be keen for a new constituent body comprising die hard crusaders, RTI activists , civil society, and undeniably, the free and the fearless fourth estate.

Sometime ago, a senior ruling party leader was heard saying in response to the April 2011 fast unto death agitation  by the indefatigable Anna and his team at Jantar Mantar, “We have been democratically elected by the people, so you can’t really thwart us”.  Well, going by the massive crowds that congregated in April at Jantar Mantar, and then in August this year at Chhatrasal Stadium, outside Tihar Jail, it takes little to deliver the final verdict on who the final winner is. If our MPs have fought their way to the august house of the Parliament with a good victory margin, the nationwide support which ardent crusaders like Anna have managed to generate, have simply stolen the sheen off from the others in the fray. The winner at the end of the day are the one’s enjoying the stupendous mandate of the general public, the ‘aam aadmi’, and in the Round-II of the defiant Anna vs Government battle, the former has won it hands down, and that too with an emphatic thumping majority. What makes the victory all the more significant is that the entire movement against corruption has remained by and large a non political one. It would be foolish to brandish the mass movement as a manipulated, orchestrated one simply because it’s just not possible to inspire such a huge number of crowd into the struggle for ensuring the fructification of the popular people’s Jan Lokpal Bill.

The ruling coalition that boasts of myriads of politically correct intelligentsia should have sensed the popular public mood and perception. Alas that was not to be, since destiny too so desired to be paving the way for a much needed ‘renaissance’. This resurrection in turn, promises a fresh lease of life for countless of Indians who have been reeling under a massive spate of corruption tainted government. The outpouring of the masses in great numbers on to the streets for vehemently registering their protests against the intolerable shady deals and kickbacks is actually a much delayed move and gesture. This because, the truth remains that an earlier retaliation would have prevented huge losses to the exchequer. An enormous proportion of the precious wealth would not have got iniquitously frittered, thereby leading to the execution of many a key public welfare projects.      

Our government must be reminded of the timeless proverbial, “Fools rush in where angels dread to”. Simply connoting that anything done in haste by them at such a vital time can prove utterly detrimental. There was just no need to press the panic buttons in the Anna Hazare case. By getting him forcibly arrested, the government has indubitably landed itself in a big time embarrassing position which will go on to seriously tarnish the imagery of the party and the government. A substantial populace of the country has already been antagonised by the high handedness antics of the men wielding power and those holding top notch posts.

The need of the hour was to flow with the tide chiefly because being in tandem with the civil society team would have earned the government not only enough brownie points to sail itself through the rough weather, but also shielded it from an all round flak. As luck would have it, a few grossly erroneous decisions not only lead to widespread chorus of angst against them, but caused an unbelievable outcry throughout the country. None, but the government is to be solely blamed for their undoing’s and miscalculations. As goes the saying, “It’s never too late in the day to make amends”, the big think tanks of government should now get their acts together if they wish to restore their lost pride by not only accepting the current public sentiment, but by redeeming the pious institution of democracy in its actual element. The heads should start rolling now, for it’s a ‘now or never situation’ failing which the government would find itself completely cornered and lurched by one and all.

16th August, 2011 will go down in the books of history when Anna Hazare along with other members of the Jan Lokpal got forcibly arrested. This D-day will play a pivotal role in determining which way the country would eventually go, towards ‘Satyamev Jayate’ or ‘Mithyamev Jayate’.

Whatever might be the outcome, the inevitable facet remains that the countrymen exasperated with rampant instances of corruption, shams, scams and subsequent cover-ups, can no longer bear the trauma and brunt any further agony, which is why they have resorted to hitting the streets for expressing their deep anguish. One would be a disillusioned fool to expect people following the “My way or the Highway” diktat lying down”. No ways!

The cheering news, on the contrary, is that the onus now rests with the people’s court, and it will not take a lifetime to expect a corrupt free, economically prosperous nation, one that will have zero tolerance towards graft and ill gotten deals. Certainly no mere wishful thinking!

Those in power should get going by revising their outlived strategies, and ensue it by shunning their egos for embracing the notion of extending the olive branch to crusaders who enjoy the overwhelming mandate of the nation.

The matter needs to be urgently addressed in the wake of the fact that any further delay might not only lead to more tumultuous state of affairs, but precisely speaking, result into catapulting and transforming the ‘War against Corruption Movement’ into another historical Freedom Fight type of Struggle.

I cannot resist humming a catchy one liner playing alongside, “Anna mein hai dum, Vande Mataram”.

The phenomena known Anna Hazare

The name Anna Hazare today rings a bell inside every Indian, cutting across all age groups, caste, creed and religion. The frenzy surrounding Anna says volumes for itself simply because the modern day Gandhian has given a sure shot reason to each and every Indian to feel good and smile after a really long long while. Following his epic 12 day fast coupled with the assiduous backstage meticulous efforts of his team, now popularly referred to as ‘Team Anna’, the government came down on their knees, thus paving the way for a general consensus on the Anna version of the Jan Lokpal Bill. Surely a historic moment with history having been written in our Parliament on 27th August, 2011.  The whole nation erupted in joy and there were celebrations, revelries all over the country as well as by the Indian Diaspora the world over. Other nations will surely be inspired to take a leaf out of the books of this great Indian peaceful rebellion against rampant corruption which lead to an unprecedented unification and integration of our country. Where do you get to see such peaceful and non violent ways of registering your protests against the system’s fallings and undoing’s. This movement promises to set a novel benchmark for other nations in times to come. Though critics and hardliners are cautioning the people that a long distance has still to be traversed before one actually gets down to the jubilation part, it’s imperative for such wise beings to appreciate that what really matters is that Anna’s one resolute and definitive step is actually a giant leap for mankind’s to come. And history and future generations will stand testimonial to this veracity. In simple semantics, the turbulent situation of the nation entailed Indians to frantically bolster their bonding and comradeship, and the ‘Anna hurricane’ was just what the doctor had ordered. The perfect panacea!  

The championing movement against corruption by Anna and the entire sea of humanity will be a much needed fodder for politicians and crusaders all over the globe chiefly because they would henceforth, be wary of Anna like leaders, who with a non violent stance can rouse millions compared to dictators and authoritarians towing the hardliner and the violent stance.

When our Holy River Yamuna crosses the danger mark, not only a serious caution gets sounded, but the panic buttons are pressed by the concerned agencies keeping in mind the sheer gravity of the situation. Quite analogous has been the instance of corruption in the last two or three years owing to which the people were not only feel disdainful, but also cheated.

People were all silently dismaying and frowning at the unparalleled upsurge in the number of scams getting unearthed day after day. Anna’s stir provided these despondent lots with a ‘strong voice’ to join hands for a full fledged agitation against such lootfest. With the silent, individual protests fructifying into a chorus of strong protests, the Anna movement became an overnight hit with the masses.

My Way or the Highway

Significantly, India has for long been in need of a cult figure like Mahatma Gandhi to not only redeem them from the dire levels of corruption, but also to restore their long lost faith on the prevalent system. Thankfully in ‘Anna’, people have rediscovered the same old tenors of Mahatma, who epitomised Non Violence and Satyagraha.

Having said that, I appreciate the sentiments of people when they say that Anna is reincarnation of our most revered and endearing ‘Bapu’. There’s a lot which both the cult personalities share in common foremost of all being, their simplicity, integrity and missionary zeal.

‘Anna Storm’ or simply the movement against corruption has made the common man realise his or her enormous strength, and reinstated in them that their voices of grievances would actually be heard and addressed. Not to miss, the government and the political system too have had their lessons in this entire saga, albeit the harsh way. Whilst, realizing the resounding power of the common man, the political class has learnt it once and for all that attempts to cow down the voice and plight of the common man would mean burning their fingers.

Another lesson learnt has been to keep off from any sort of ‘divisive politics’. This because the masses are all aware that it is not communalism, but ‘rampant and deep rooted corruption’ which really has been crippling our country, the economy and our outlook. It’s time to bid adieu to all sorts of divides and bury the hatchet by looking towards the brighter times. Gratuitously casting aspersions on the secular credentials of such movements and their torchbearers is absolutely ridiculous, and would pose great deal of encumbrances in the ‘fight against corruption’. 

Anna’s historic August fast that has earned the sobriquet ‘August Kranti’ now has indubitably catapulted the never say never die crusader’s status to glorious echelons, in fact, placed him at the altar from where his large than life image is bound to leave the other living legends absolutely awestruck. For giving a country of 1.2 billion a newly found ray of hope, he is already being hailed as a ‘living legend’ who truly deserves to be conferred the country’s top most award ‘Bharat Ratna’ for his selfless contribution in the field of social reforms. Owing to his relentless spirit and passion with which he has gone about galvanising the massive crowds of the largest democracy in the world, this simpleton from Ralegaon Siddhi today undeniably enjoys more adulation than even the legendary sportsmen and Bollwood thespians of our country who are often hailed as the ‘Demi Gods’ of the tinsel town with a huge fan following.

My nephew immensely moved with this movement articulated, “Anna Hazare is a phenomena, because of his name which if bifurcated into two parts, needs to be read as “Ann” meaning food, and the other as “Hazaaron” signifying thousands. Both words when integrated go on to constitute a defiant campaigner who not only possesses the resilience to defy the mighty and the powerful, but has that remarkable trait to allure thousands and millions’ towards his social crusades and reforms through peaceful, non violent ways. That said, this is what makes Anna such a cult figure today for people of all age groups and social status.”

Well this solitary exposition by my nineteen year nephew embodies the buoyancy and the emotions of countless youngsters and teenagers like him who vehemently seem to reckon that Anna holds the key to the jeopardised state of affairs owing to the unabated spate of scams and frauds which seems to be a complete travesty of the whole system.

I have often heard people born after Independence (1947) moaning how much they miss having contributed their bit in the epic freedom fight struggle against the tyrannical Britishers. Well as luck would have it, the Almighty and the destiny have been extremely kind in bestowing them almost a similar once in a lifetime opportunity. The only distinction being that it is a fight not against any oppressors, but an endemic named ‘graft’ which has created such a big divide and a whole deal of mistrust towards those wielding power.

The ubiquitous movement against deep rooted scourge of corruption in the society has been astoundingly peaceful, yet thunderous in its appeal in the sense that it has remarkably resonated the voice and grievance of every common man who has for a long time been grappling with the contentious issue of inflation and price rise. The ‘Annastorm’ or the Anna wave has not only helped unify the world on a grave subject namely corruption, but it has helped instil enormous fear amongst the habitual graft ‘acceptors and givers’. The very fear of being caught red handed would deter a considerable majority. Even the average IQ man on the street was left wondering about the somewhat equivocal government drafted Lokpal Bill which was an all out toothless one, and thus a complete eyewash since it had nothing on the platter to curb the most serious menace engulfing the entire country today.

Though meetings did happen between government and the civil society members, nothing emerged as the government drafted their own version of the Lokpal Bill by doing a volte-face on their earlier assurances as alleged by Team Anna. Since it was in stark contrast to the Jan Lokpal Bill version of Anna and his team, there was palpable discontentment with Team Anna repudiating the government version at the very outset. Thus lead to the announcement of the August 16 indefinite fast by the veteran Gandhian. Many in the government simply dismissed as a ‘damp squib’, while some launched a scathing and malicious personal rhetoric attack on Anna. With the ruling party chairperson away from the action scene in the most turbulent of times, it needed just one blunder mistake of getting Anna and his team arrested on the morning of 16th August, 2011 to bring the wheel of quagmire and misfortunes to a full circle for the Congress Party.   

There was ubiquitous and spontaneous outrage and consternation throughout the country over the high handedness shown in muzzling the voice of the protestors by taking them into preventive custody. The media amplified with almost a 24x7 coverage of the entire saga as they too sensed a clear wave of public empathy in support for the civil society that was earnestly striving to cleanse the system of all its muck.

Eventually better sense prevailed with our seasoned parliamentarians acceding to the just demands of Anna by proroguing the previously drafted toothless version of the Bill, thereby marking a new chapter for the Indian Democracy. The movement has already got itself etched in the golden letters for more than one reason. Besides the fact that the much awaited strong version of the Lokpal Bill is soon going to be a reality on black and white, the other astounding truth remains that the country would take no time to unify and form an endless human solidarity chain on issues of common concern and urgency. Quite justifiable, when it’s actually the people’s unflagging support that ensures them a prestigious berth in the Parliament or the Legislative Assembly with a thumping majority. Personally speaking, I have staunchly believed that you no longer remain a loser even in defeat if you accept the verdict graciously. Simply put, if the politicians have had to face a lot of heat in the recent times, the best recourse is to gracefully hand the victory shield to the people’s court which would thus aptly do the balancing act for the presently bedazzled and beleaguered political heavyweights. Further unwarranted utterances on the intent and role of the civil society would only make matters more intricate. It’s time to equate the Lokpal Bill with the famous Lord Shani Dev’s Temple in Shinganapur, Maharashtra where there are no doors or locks for safeguarding houses or establishments. This because there is deep founded belief among all that anyone indulging in any sinful act would somehow get instantaneously chastised by the fury and wrath of Lord Shani Dev. As a result, burglars and dacoits refrain from their nefarious designs in this part of the world. Similarly, a strong bill too will deter the habitual bribe takers and givers from indulging in unlawful escapades chiefly because they would fear the dire repercussions that the Jan Lokpal Bill might land them into.   

Having remain glued to the marathon 12 day fast of Anna, one is also reminded of the yesteryear evergreen Dev Anand classic ‘Guide’ where a small town tourist guide ‘Raju’ too undergoes a 12 day fast to invoke the supreme power’s grace for ending the severe spell of drought and famine in their village. That was reel life, but in real life, Anna’s 12 day fast for a real burning issue holds more connotation, which also elucidates why he deserves to be whole heartedly hailed, and regarded as the ‘heartthrob’ of the entire nation.

Just to supplement, how many times do you get to see the leaders enjoying such adulation like the one bestowed on Anna by his endless list of followers and admirers who donned caps the world over, with taglines, “I am Anna”? Likewise, how many times do you get to see parents naming their new born ones after the leaders in these modern times. Well, with a record number of such parents going on a virtual spree of naming their newborn’s after the indefatigable tornado named Anna, it clearly proves the man is surely an exception to the rule!!

No wonder, we have a reason to heave a sigh of relief as countless of hapless souls can finally see and sense the strong ray of light finally.....

Live and let live

The recent proposal to bring the capital city’s famous six temples under the aegis of a Shrine Board has evoked a strong reaction from the existent temple management committees and the vast clan of priest’s that have been associated with them since time immemorial. As a recap, the Delhi Government wanted to replicate the models of Shree Mata Vaishnodevi and Sheetla Mata Devi Temple in the six prominent temples of the city. This was because there had been reports of mismanagement and derelict state of infrastructure in these places. Another assertion submitted was the absence of a trust in these places of worship consequent to which it posed immense inconvenience to scores of visitors thronging them everyday. The six temples shortlisted include  two Hanuman Temples, one at CP, and the other near Yamuna Bazaar, Jhandewalan Mandir, Gauri Shankar Mandir opposite Red Fort, Siddh Peeth Yogmaya, and Kalkaji temple.

Goddess Kalka

Fumes eminent lawyer Neeraj Bhardwaj, also the president of Shree Kalkaji Mandir Prabandhak Sudhar Committee, “As per Article 14 of the Indian Constitution, citizens are entitled to the “Right to Equality” which implies overall equality to every citizen in all relevant spheres and avenues. Religion definitely is no mean exception by any standards in this context. The recent initiation by government to form a Shrine Board at these famous six temples has surely not gone down well with the current temple management committees. This simply because it would mean re- enacting the infamous Bhatta Parsaul incident when the innocent farmers were robbed of their precious farmland by the land sharks in close connivance with the government authorities and the rich builder lobby. It’s extremely agonizing to state that the government has paid no heed to the needs and problems of the temple all these years.

Piilgrims in temple

Ever since huge treasure troves have been unraveled in an ancient Kerala Temple, authorities have evinced a keen desire to take over the mantles of the famous six temples of Delhi. In the process, the authorities have been totally oblivious of the grave loss of livelihood that their wrong act would be causing to numerous families that for long have been dependant upon these temples for their daily bread and butter. The government should keep off from our temples since it would be connote absolute impartiality and inequality mainly because their proposals are meant only for our temples, and do not pertain to any other place of worship affiliated with other religions. All we seek is equality since rule laid down for one is supposed to be a rule for others too, and not the other way around. Certain encroachments in the Temple premises however need to be razed off so as to widen the scope of improvising upon the dilapidated infrastructure and creating more space for pilgrims. ”

Kalka Mandir...

Manish Mahalwal, an ardent devotee could not agree more. Says he, “Live and let live is all I can say apropos the current government decision to take over the temples of Delhi. Instead of forming a Shrine Board, the need of the hour is to work in tandem with the existent Temple Management Committees in order to improvise the prevailing infrastructural facilities and privileges to the pilgrims visiting these places of immense mythological and historical significance from all nooks and corners. The government should abstain from indulging in any further controversial antic primarily because it is already engrossed with too much mess and upheaval on its platter. The main focus of the government should be on beautification of these ancient temples rather than taking over their reins.” Temple priest Satish Chandra says, “We don’t wish to politicize the matter, and on the contrary, the only motto and emphasis should be on all round development of the temple for the convenience of the pilgrims. The issue of the government taking over the temple by forming a Shrine Board is preposterous, and we would instead implore authorities to allocate developmental funds for our Temples. I am sure, our collective efforts will yield rich dividends if done and executed with a noble, pious intent.” 

My memorable 5200 feet altitude pilgrimage

It finally happened after an extremely long hiatus of 24 years that I got the divine summons from the imperial shrines of Shri Mata Vaishnodevi. Albeit, the desire had been there for long to visit the Divine Goddesses abode, the plan somehow could never fructify. Well this is why they say it’s simply impossible to visit this holy shrine sans the consent and Bulawa (call) of the Goddess herself.

As I boarded the Volvo from the Azad Hind Market near Red Fort on 31st May late evening, I had to really pinch myself to get the feeling sunk in, that I was eventually headed towards one of the most cherished and blessed places of the world. The feeling was simply euphoric!

Unlike the trains that go only till Jammu, the merits of the Volvo lies in its extended service till Katra, the destination from where the holy journey or the ‘Yatra’ commences towards the majestic Bhawan of Mata Vaishnodevi situated at an altitude of 5200 feet. It’s always advisable to be a good trip planner in the sense that one must be aware of the basic details of the venue one is visiting so as to avoid any hassles or unwarranted blues. Prior to undertaking my much awaited pilgrimage to Vaishnodevi, I had done my bit of homework regarding the hotel accommodation and other relevant modalities such as collecting the registration slip of the Yatra from the office of the ‘Shri Mata Vaishnodevi Shrine Board’. I had undertaken the Yatra along with an acquaintance named Sudhir staying in my neighbourhood.

While the Volvo proffers all the pleasure of a chic video coach, I can’t really tag it as a very comfortable journey chiefly because of two reasons. One because you are inept in stretching your legs conveniently like in an A/C Sleeper Bus or a train. Secondly, be it the Volvo or the Inter State Bus services, the drivers are constrained to maintain a certain high speed limit which may or may not go down well with hypertensive beings like me. Being a borderline case of high blood pressure, I would honestly confess that the Volvo journey was a rather breath stopping one for me mainly because even on the steep turns, the driver maintained an alarmingly fast pace. But my critical viewpoint should not rob the Volvo Bus Service of their ‘positives’ which are of course the thrill and privilege of a luxurious journey. It was refreshing to see a robust vigil at the police post, near few kilometers from Katra, where passengers were made to get their bags and baggage’s scanned in order to prevent any untoward terror eventuality. We alighted from the Volvo on reaching Katra, and thus, began the house hunting spree for a good, reasonable budget hotel. With some good bargaining, we were successful in helping ourselves to a good decent place. It was ensued with a much needed bath and a nice ginger tea with biscuits. Though there are no major do’s and don’t while visiting any Mata Temple the world over, what is strictly forbidden is the consumption of liquor, egg or a non vegetarian diet prior to commencing the Yatra, and till its completion.

Since we had decided to commence our Yatra the same day of reaching Katra sans any break unlike countless of other visitors, we proceeded towards the Shrine Board Office to get ourselves registered for the most coveted Yatra of our lifetime. We were lucky to get our registration slip or the ‘Yatra Parchi’ swiftly without any long wait in the queue following which we marched towards the main entry Gate from where the countdown to the 13 km long Yatra actually begins. While we had the option of availing the auto service to the main entry Gate, we were keen to traverse the entire alleyway by foot.

On reaching the main Entry gate, or the ‘Darshani Darwaza’ as it is popularly referred to, we took some refreshments and informed folks back home that the Yatra was about to begin. We soon landed up at ‘Banganga’, a place of immense mythological significance. After paying our obeisance at this holy place, we reached ‘Charan Paduka’, another place with colossal spiritual importance. As luck would have it, my persisting headache became so excruciatingly intolerable that I was compelled to seek refuge at the earliest possible sanctuary. By Her Majesty’s Divine Grace, I soon came across a 24x7 charitable dispensary where the attending medico expert not only provided me with the requisite antidote, but was gracious enough to offer me a bed for taking a brief rest. I would fall short of words while expressing my whole hearted gratitude towards this noble soul who left no stone unturned in ensuring that I left his clinic in a fully recuperated, rejuvenated shape. The good Samaritan advised me the ill effects of undertaking a long Yatra with empty stomach and sans a good peaceful sleep. Since I had goofed up on both the fronts, a gastric ailment was inevitable, and the least adversity that could have struck me.    

However, gracious as I have always been in accepting my follies, I would frankly say that I did a blunder by initiating a long ‘Yatra’ empty stomach and without a good last night sleep. Anyways, all is well that ends well, and with the mitigation of my agonizing pain, I was able to resume my Yatra. It was a revelation to spectacle the boundless adrenaline with countless people hailing from all nooks and corners of the world embark upon this holy Yatra. The amenities and the public service utilities including the washrooms and water coolers are impeccable and have all been overhauled. While the Shrine Board is the official caretaker, Mata’s staunch devotees too have contributed to the infrastructural development of the area in and around the pious Shrine.  Depending upon their comfort levels, it is solely the discretion of pilgrims to choose the plain track or the staircase track for making it to the ‘Bhawan’. After covering a distance of 6.5 km long by foot, we reached the famous Adhkuwari Temple and the adjoining Garbh Joon Cave. It is said that this famous pilgrimage of Mata Vaishnodevi must include atleast a solitary visit to the Adhkuwari in the lifetime of the pilgrims. Ironically, the problem at Adhkuwari is the long queue owing to which a substantial percentage of visitors prefer skipping a visit to this place while others prefer visiting this, after visiting the Vaishnodevi Shrine.

From Adhkuwari, there are two pathways leading towards the main Bhawan, one the old route and the other being a relatively recently carved out track. The ongoing full swing work of roofing the holy boulevard with cemented canopies and sturdy sheets is to safeguard the pilgrims from extreme weather conditions like rains, scorching heat and hailstones. The panoramic view of the valley from the top of the mountains is a spectacular sight which plays a pivotal role in invigorating the pilgrims. With chants of Jai Mata Di and Jaikaras all over, the aches and strains simply vanish in thin air. Although the pilgrimage undertaken on foot has its own spiritual significance, it’s unfair to undermine the devotional spirits of pilgrims doing this Yatra on pithoos, ponie, palki, or taking to the helicopter ride owing to their personal health factors. This because any act done to appease the Divine Goddess is an act of devotion, in the eyes of the Universal, Benevolent Mother. With the milestone indicating a distance of barely 500 meters, the majestic Bhawan of Vaishnodevi begins to show itself in absolute heavenly splendour and timeless glory. On reaching the Bhawan located in the folds of the three peaked mountain named Trikuta, there is the flawless and robust check post where visitors are expected to display their Yatra Parchi. The numerous shops proffer ample options to devotees for buying the Prasad, offerings and other souvenirs. The availability of locker chambers and cloak rooms enable visitors to deposit their valuables, leather item goods, shoes and other accessories inside them safely and securely. Once we were through these formalities, we found ourselves in a uniformed queue lined up for our lifetime Darshan of Mata Vaishnodevi. With abated breath, we spent the next few moments in frenetic, yet fervent anticipation of our long treasured ‘tryst with destiny’.  

Our golden hour arrived as the clock struck 12 pm midnight, and with our foraying inside the world’s most revered shrines via the newly carved trek. The ancient cave pathway to the Shrine is kept closed except for two to three months in a year, thus implying that visitors have to tread through this elegantly carved lane for making it to the holy cave that houses the Shrine.

No exaggeration, but I was mesmerized and left wholly stunned while gazing at the “Three Pindies’ (rock formations) epitomizing the three different forms of the Goddess namely Maha Saraswati, Maha Kali and Maha Laxmi. The Shrine Board has appreciably taken due pains by planting sign boards at different crucial junctures all over the 13 km long track that lucidly elucidate the existence of Mata Vaishnodevi in the form of three ‘Pindies’. This is primarily to make the first time devotees aware about this veracity. The entire spectacle is such alluring and resplendent that devotees have to be gently shoved in order to facilitate smooth mobility for others in the queue. The place wears a distinctive festive look 24x7 and 365 days a year. There are devotees who have thronging the consecrated place for numerous years, and on a regular consistent basis so much so that the visits to the shrine have become an integral part of their lives. Solely the prerogative of the Divine Goddess whom she chooses and grants the status of a ‘lifetime pilgrim’.

After Vaishnodevi Darshan, I offered my prayers at the ancient Shiv Gufa Temple following which I marched towards Bhairon Ghati. It is said that the wishes get fulfilled if you follow Mata Vaishnodevi Darshan with Bhairon Nath Darshan. Must say the steep, yet safe journey to Bhairon Temple takes quite a toll, especially if the Yatra is being done sans any sojourns like in my case. Normally visitor’s make a brief stop over after visiting the Mata Vaishnodevi Shrine, and Adhkuwari at the various Vishram Sthals (Shelter Sheds. This becomes all the more imperative when you are traveling with your family and kids.

On reaching Bhairon Temple, we had reasons to feel ecstatic since we were able to complete our Yatra in the desired ritualistic way. The alluring Mata’s Bhawan is visible from Bhairon Temple and is indubitably a sight to behold. Few minutes later, we began the return journey. With brief halts in between for refreshments and tea, we finally reached AdhKuwari Temple where we offered our prayers. However, owing to a long waiting line, I missed out visiting the famous ‘Garbh Joon’ cave where Divine Goddess had meditated for nine long months attaining spiritual enlightenment and powers.

We finally reached our hotel in Katra after three hours where we had a good wash ensued by a scrumptious meal. From Katra, we took off to Jammu by bus, and then finally at 2 pm, we boarded a bus to Delhi.

My two day journey to Mata Vaishnodevi Shrine thus came to an end. Kudos to my camera that ensured to perfection that the lifetime moments of this remarkable trip got captured and immortalized in its compact frames for me to cherish them for times to come.
 

wild life trail......

Over all these years of our marital life, my wife has somewhat perfected the art of giving me ‘shockers’ from time to time. On my end, I have accepted my fate as it comes which is why I tend to take all my wife’s whirlwinds in a positive stride. Kudos to my philosopher comrade Dr Batra who taught me well in advance that married men simply can’t afford to be choosers in life.

Suhaana safar aur yeh mausam haseen

“Bipin come quickly, there’s something pertinent to be conveyed to you, regarding our wild life sojourn to Jim Corbett National Park”, shouted my wife in a raised, but cheerful baritone. Like any sane being, I too thought her to be kidding since it so happened to be April 1st that day.  Ready for the table turning session on me, I marched ahead to catch up with my wife. Surprisingly, my wife meant business so much so that the entire itinerary of the program too had been chalked out much to my sheer astonishment.

While I have always cherished family sabbaticals, what cheesed me off gravely was the fact that the forthcoming out station holiday would pose an encumbrance in the way of my usual Navratra’s ritual.  A nine day festivity involving a host of special customs, rituals and traditions, Navratra’s indubitably mean the world to me.

Chal Akela Chal Akela Chal Akela Tera Mela Piche Chutha Chal Akela

Since the program had already been finalized, I had to seek a divine exemption from my Goddess with a heavy heart for being inept in playing a vibrant role this Navratra’s.  Bestowed with boundless logistics in her armoury, my wife tried comforting me saying, “Lucky you really! It seems your Divine Mother so desires to give you her most cherished Darshan riding atop the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger amidst the breathtaking serenes of Jim Corbett.”Wary of my wife’s unrivalled penchant for emerging triumphant in spats, I had to plainly nod in the affirmative, albeit with unrevealed dissent. 

We made the departure from New Delhi in the wee hours of 9th April morning in two different Innova’s. The elderly ones comprising my parents as well as the folks of my brother in law sized up in one vehicle, while the other ferried the 2nd and the 3rd generation power houses of our family including me and my wife.

Mere desh ki dharti, sona ugle, ugle heere moti... mere desh ki dharti

The 240 km long road journey via Gajrola, Moradabad, Kashipur and finally to Ramnagar took us seven hours thanks to brief halt over’s and the pot holed highway roads. The vast forest reserve of Jim Corbett is divided into five different tourism zones in order to facilitate efficient tourism management and smooth mobility for tourists pouring in from all nooks and corners of the globe. Corbett National Park enjoys a strategic location amidst the foothills of the Himalayas, in the recently carved Uttarakhand state. 

Neele gagan ke tale, dharti ka pyaar pale

As luck would have it, we had our bookings for Dhikala Forest Zone which is one of the five tourism zone of Jim Corbett, and a good 62 kms from Ramnagar and 51kms from Dhangari entry gate. Fortunately, there are various Forest Rest Houses (FRH) namely Dhikala, Khinnanauli, Sarapduli, Sultan, Kanda and Gairal in the Dhikala zone. However much to our dismay and ignorance, private vehicles have recently been barred from foraying into the forest terrains from Ramnagar in a latest twist of rules, thus implying that those plying to the exotic locales of Jim Corbett by their private vehicles have to simply abandon their vehicles here, and proceed ahead in the open air gypsy safari. Need I say, we too had to adhere to these guidelines. As for the jeep owners, they might demand exorbitant tariffs for their jeeps, there definitely exists the scope for negotiations. Once we had fixed on two jeeps for our voyage into the enticing forest greens, and had the Innova’s parked inside a tourist complex in Ramnagar, we headed towards Dhikala via the Dhangari Entry Gate. Following a few formalities and verifications, we began our glorious journey to the famous Jim Corbett National Park. With hills in the backdrop and enchanting natural greenery, it surely made a sight to behold. The tranquility of the place was another remarkable aspect that kept everyone of us thoroughly allured. The entire biosphere epitomized a picturesque panoramic view replete with astounding components such as the irresistible flora and fauna, innumerable multi hued trees, small rivers, pebbles of diverse colours and size, ingeniously crafted roads, the stillness of the forest reserve coupled with the mellifluous sounds of the forest inhabitants. Dhikala is at the edge of the broad Patli Dun valley and it is at this hub, from where the famous Ramganga flows in through numerous channels.  I am reminded of the eternal adage, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do” chiefly because zesty travelers to this incredible forest reserve must bear in mind that a whole lot of rules are meant to be followed in case one is really desirous of experiencing a memorable and hassle free trip.
Foremost of all, what needs to be religiously adhered is that one must not attempt to get off their vehicles as long as it is the forest area. While life might give us a second chance, a slight mistake in the forests can turn disastrous in almost no time. Secondly, absolute silence needs to be maintained if tourists are aspiring to unravel the inimitable splendour and mystic of Jim Corbett.

Hariyali aur rasta ...in Jim Corbett

After almost two hours drive, we reached Dhikala Forest Zone, but not before marveling at the nature’s pristinely best. Since we were dying to have a wash in the aftermath of all the whirlwind ‘dust blowing encounters’, we all hit off to the washrooms. Subsequently, we made our way to the sanitized stand alone canteen cum common dining area for scores of travelers to this part of the world. Kids had refreshments with sandwiches, while we helped ourselves to some nice pakoras and tea sufficient to invigorate us from the exhaustive day long journey. We ensued it with a walk to our exquisite rest houses which bore a close semblance to hill station cottages or rest houses. Without any qualms, the forest rest houses were way beyond our preconceived expectations. Since we were in all three families, we took up three different cottages each one of them having a majestic view to spectacle. Albeit we were almost cut off from the rest of the world due to mobile network failure, none had any complaints up their lips simply because there were plethora of other cheering factors to keep us hooked on to the mystic beauty of the place which undoubtedly happens to be a haven for wildlife lovers.     

Our trip was made splendid with the open air gypsy and the elephant safari. It’s irrefutably the flora and fauna of Corbett that makes it stand apart. Predominately you have mountains, Sal forests, Sheesham, Dhak, Pipal, Chaurs (grasslands), Khair, Mango Trees, Chir Pine, and small rivers coupled with more than 600 species of birds, trees, bushes, hedges, herbs, bamboos, grasses, climbers and ferns.

Ideal family...first, second and third generation ..together they smile !

Rare sight... at rare place

As for the Fauna in Corbett National Park, there is Royal Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Jungle Cat, Asian Elephant, different variety fishes, various types of Birds like Parrot, Rested Kingfisher, Woodpecker, Vulture, Seagull etc, Hog Deer, Spotted Deer, Barking Deer, Chital, Sambar Deer, Wild Boar, Black Face Monkey, Rhesus Monkey, Wild pig, and Jackal. In Reptiles, there is Indian Crocodile, Gharial, King Cobra, Python etc. Though the key focal attraction for tourists remains on sighting the tigers, one should really not be disappointed in unable to discover one for there are plenty of other wonderful explorations to be unraveled during a wild life tour to Jim Corbett. I would consider myself extremely fortunate for having had the privilege of viewing Tigers in flesh and blood in my maiden tour unlike countless of wild life lovers who remain deprived of having their spectacular view during their entire excursion.

The euphoria that surrounds the place where a tiger gets sighted is a matchless experience when myriads of gypsies march towards the tiger in absolute ecstasy and bated breath. The tourists feel satiated only after they have captured the images of the tiger from different perspectives. Elephant Safari brings us more nearer to comprehending the rigors that this imperial creation of nature chiefly endures for not only its own sustenance, but for helping humans to traverse on forbidden, arduous alleyways. Consumption of non-vegetarian food and alcohol is strictly prohibited inside the park for obvious reasons. Inside the dense forests, one can spot ingeniously designed watchtowers and machans all aimed at facilitating an effective view of the wildlife.For purely infotainment purposes, the lodgers at Dhikala and Bijrani can enjoy films on wildlife in the evenings.

Guess! ...On which animal these " social animals" are ridding?

Every day in Corbett was a revelation for all of us with starling new explorations and findings. And while me and my folks had a rollicking time, I deem it imperative to voice few key facts. Tourists being outsiders must maintain top level discipline when they are foraying into the natural habitat of wild life. Secondly, one should abstain from carrying matchboxes and refrain from smoking or lighting campfires in the forest since accidental fires are known to be the cause of wide scale devastation.

We returned back to New Delhi on 12th April evening after having unearthed a whole range of brilliant facets about wild life. It was positively a sojourn that shall remain etched in my mind and heart for years to come.

My narration shall be no less than an unbaked cake if I fail to proffer a standing ovation to the daily wage staff of the forest reserve who put their life to great perils by treading into the captivating, yet deadly dense forests, all for the mission of our environment and wild life heritage conservation.

We are over the moon

History was written on 2nd April in Mumbai’s famous Wankhede Stadium when Dhoni smashed the ball into the crowds, thus clinching a historic win for his country.  Simply put, a 43 day long epoch of intense day and night cricket match watching amidst life’s usual cacophony schedule got concluded on a scintillating dream come true note with the efforts of our cricketers replete with prayers and blessings of the entire nation yielding rich dividends eventually. Apt to utter, “All’s well that ends well”, for God forbids, if the result had been otherwise, the entire nation would have plunged into a comatose state of inconsolable gloom. What more, experts and commentators would have waged an all out slamming war on the same cricketing heroes for all their follies, extra curricular indulgences and host of gratuitous misdemeanors. Not to forget, countless of fans who too would have partaken in the ‘free for all’ lampooning by taking potshots at the home groomed (read pampered) cricketers for spending a great deal of time endorsing the garish gizmos and gadgets of the contemporary world, rather than slogging it out on the practice grounds and training sessions. Facebook, Twitter and Orkuts would have been deluged with innumerable scathing comments on the cricketers and their gaudy lifestyles in the eventuality of an Indian defeat in the final on 2nd April.

Surely nothing succeeds like success, and now that the ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 extravaganza has been won by us following our comprehensive six wicket victory in the tense final against Lankans, it’s the ‘Time of the century’, when as a cricket obsessed nation, we have reasons to indulge in an all out revelry which, is by going berserk on roads to celebrate our resounding World Cup Win. Sensing a good political mileage out of all this, politicos too have joined the bandwagon by coming out of their well guarded, well armed closet, and hobnobbing with the masses. This is surely our crowning moment of glory when every Indian is taking pride in being born an Indian.

Be Indian, feel Indian is the ubiquitous flavor in the air!

While the feeling of having actually won the glittering coveted trophy is yet to sink in, the perfect antidote is to live, breathe, celebrate and cherish every moment of this wonderful victory. It’s a triumph of our endless love for cricket… a befitting tribute to the legend named Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar who deserves every possible sporting accolade for the astounding contributions he has made to this wonderful game of cricket. Unobjectionably, the perfect contender for Bharat Ratna Award.

It’s the victory of the entire nation not just, because India won the tournament, but because ‘cricket as a sport’ inspired us to congregate onto the roads in huge numbers at one pulsating, mental, spiritual as well as passionate level for hailing and celebrating our momentous World Cup victory. Every Indian had a role to play in this special win for it was the constant roaring and cheering for every singular feat of their icons- a six, a four, or every time when a wicket or a catch was taken, that actually led to Team India snatching victory from the jaws of defeat at many a crucial instances. Thus unmistakably, establishing beyond an iota of doubt, that an Indian victory sans the unremitting hailing by their countrymen was simply unachievable.
            

   In the aftermath of this epic conquest, it would be demeaning to say “Dhoni and his boys”, for ‘they’ surely as many would unanimously concur, deserve to be labeled as “Dhoni and his men” for the valor and heroics they have displayed in this mega clash with the Titans of World Cricket. The road to fame has irrefutably been an arduous one since the never say never die ‘Team India’ has had to prove their mettle and prowess at various times and that too, in diverse forms of cricket, be it the Twenty-Twenty, Test Match form of cricket, and more recently the World Cup Championship which is played in the one day format. As luck would have it, India was successful in living up to the great lofty expectations of all their fans and well wishers by winning a majority of the prestigious tournaments, one day and test match series against different rival countries in adverse situations.   

 
Being an ardent admirer of the religion called cricket, I would definitely not tag my fellow countrymen as a “bunch of hyper emotive beings” simply because I too incidentally, or by default, happen to get over reactive during a cricket contest involving my great country India. Having said that, I would pertinently like to utter that the ICC Cricket World Cup Victory of 2011 should ideally signify the onset of two pivotal progressions, one of course being the fact that Team India would have to play as “Champions” henceforth owing to colossal sky high expectations riding on them. Secondly and more radically, the need of the hour for ‘we Indians’ is to tone down their alarmingly high levels of ‘Emotional Quotient’ (EQ )factor which if not adhered to, can lead to serious repercussions in times to come. Indians coincidentally seem to have this in abundance evidently because of their tendency to over-react over trivial matters, or issues demanding relatively bare minimal interest.
 
In matches going down to the wires, people with weak hearts are more often than not, advised to refrain from spectacling such nail biting contests since adverse outcomes might prove detrimental to their health .But then who cares as long as a Indo-Pak match is in the offing.. Heart matters take a backseat for no one seems to be in any obligatory mood so as to give up on the power packed battle of 100 overs promising full dose of adrenaline one could probably fantasize of. 

Meanwhile coming to brass tacks, let us again bask in the newly found fame that India has finally been crowned World Champions after 28 long years of frenetic wait (almost double the period of the mythological exile of Lord Rama).. that we are the invincible champs ….the best in Cricket as of today, and for next four years in a row…is simply a mind blowing, intoxicating feeling of a lifetime.

Two key things which our cricketers must always bear in mind are to shun ‘complacency’ once and for all while on the playing field, and second is to unswervingly adhere to the core cricketing norms, of which discipline and respect for your counterparts form an integral component. As a big time cricketing aficionado who has literally spent a lifetime watching cricket amidst persistent biting- messing of my fingernails), I would never like to see critics drawing any parallel between us and the once mighty Kangaroos who often made headlines for their sledging and extremely brash behavior. Let ‘D’ of Dhoni for eternity insinuate Discipline and Dignity!

Albeit weather forecasters in the country are predicting a rather rosy picture of the monsoons, media projections are hinting at a strong possibility of the Indian monsoon being adversely impacted by the fall outs of the recent Japanese Tsunami. But then who cares, as long it’s raining cats and dogs for our cricketing heroes from all over. Indeed when you are showered and bestowed with the choicest of blessings from the Almighty, there’s just no looking back –
“Jab upar wala deta hai to chappar fad ke deta hai”. No wonder, someone rightly said “April showers bring May flowers”.

The best thing about the victory against Lankans was how it got accomplished by chasing the mammoth target of 274 instead of being the target setters for their opponents. Simply put, Indians, known to choke in chunk high pressure games like the South Africans, pulled off an incredibly remarkable victory by holding on to their nerves in a game that saw the early exit of Sachin and Sehwag.

Personally speaking, I have always regarded the 1983 Prudential World Cup Cricket win in high esteem. Nevertheless, I deem it imperative to say that the marked difference between the erstwhile team of 1983 and the 2011 team is the underlying fact that Dhoni and his men started off as favourites, while Kapil and his devils started off as underdogs or simply minnows.
Experts had their own takes with some brandishing it as a real coup by the resurgent Kapil and Co. over the dreaded West Indian squad comprising fiery speedsters like Andy Roberts, Michael Holding, Joel Garner, Malcolm  Marshall, Winston Davis and Wayne Daniel, whereas others simply rubbished the win as a mere fluke.

Kapil’s team evidently went on to prove that it was no fluke by subsequently following it up with convincing victories over other cricketing nations. As for Dhoni and his men in blue, the only distinction lay in the fact that were already proven champions in all forms of cricket be it Twenty 20, One Day, or the Test match format of cricket, and had only to maintain their winning streak by lifting the World Cup. The World Cup win happened to be just another icing on the cake for them which they achieved with all elan and elegance by outclassing and outdoing all the previous four World Cup Cricket Champions namely West Indies, Australia, Pakistan and Sri Lanka in virtually all departments of the game. 

We are over the moon and it seems like a dream still!!

Watta a feeling!!!

Mesmerizing treat of synchronization, resplendence and endless passion at DPSG Kiddofest 2011

Even the dicey weather conditions could not deter the buoyant spirits of the parents who had turned in full strength for the ‘KiddoFest’ at Delhi Public School Ghaziabad to cheer their kids for delivering an electrifying performance replete with an effervescent repertoire of diverse dance forms. Since the much awaited event had to be procrastinated to a working day instead of a weekend, parents of toddlers and tiny tots seemed unanimously resolute in their grit to keep everything aside for this extraordinary day, especially for witnessing easily one of the most ‘Complete mesmerizing amalgamation of symphony, exuberance and zeal at its pristinely best’. Needless to say, the adrenaline was unusually high!

DPS Ghaziabad kids....

The event staged on the morning of March 10th by the Early Childhood Education wing of the school in the open air breathtaking landscapes of DPSG was truly memorable owing to the sheer magic of brilliance and passion with which young tender ones went about delivering scintillating performances one after the other. It was a sight to behold with the children in a complete revelry mood. Jazzily dressed up in the best of costumes and ethnic attires, it seemed for a moment as if those little bundles of joy were ‘aliens’ from a different planet altogether, especially with all cosmetic touch ups. The choreography of the entire carnival deserved special kudos since no stone was left unturned by the teachers and senior class students in ensuring the crowning success of the power packed extravaganza.  

It’s relevant to spare a thought for institutions like DPS Ghaziabad who have not only  accomplished many a milestones in their tireless journey of providing world class learning, but have also gracefully sustained themselves for 30 long golden years amidst hiccups, challenges and intense competition. In one go, the glorious success could be attributed to the fine integration of essential holistic components into the modern day academic curriculum. The one distinctive facet about the school has been its impeccable track of hosting astounding events and cultural activities on a regular basis. Quite naturally when it came to paying rich tributes on the momentous occasion of DPSG having remarkably completed 30 long years in the business of education, the school could not miss the opportunity to showcase its ubiquitous forte- that being its strong penchant for hosting unforgettable cultural activities and events. Additionally, numerous academic, literary as well as sporting activities too were organized throughout the year. Quintessentially DPSG has always had the rich tradition of organizing exclusive, highly invigorating merriments on special instances like the commemoration of 30 long years of DPSG existence. Enthralling programs such as The DPSG Run, The Field Show, Ananta (Dazzling cultural fiesta), and Navkriti (An exquisite art mela) that were organized with great enthusiasm and fanfare, irrefutably establish the supremacy of this ‘Ageless Temple of Learning’.
Taking a leaf from the proverbial, “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy”, DPSG has unstintingly strived to focus on the all round development of a child enrolled here. The very fact that the onus is on grooming a student into a wonderful human being than on the ‘commercials’, says it all. The school is pledged towards living up to the great expectations of the parents who repose a lifetime faith on their institution by enrolling their loved ones with them. This is precisely why hectic brainstorming sessions are always an ongoing process for ensuring, conceiving and formulating the vital and the finest most aspects of modern day education with due sensitivity, fervour and diligence.

That the school epitomizes boundless camaraderie and zest is evident from their famous punch line cum slogan, ‘One Team, One Dream, One Mission’ which holds similar relevance and connotation for students of all classes be it kindergarten kids, or the senior most in Class XII.
The school came alive when 400 pre school children descended upon the tantalizingly greens of DPSG for presenting a marvelous visual display of vibrancy, rhythm and synchrony. In sync with the affluent legacy of the school, the event had a cent percent participation implying each and every child of the pre-school registered his or her presence by dancing and swaying to the resonance of mellifluous renditions. The wonder kids undeniably a ‘repository of unremitting vivacity’ ruled the minds, the hearts, and in fact, the spectacularly riveting show. No wonder, the distinguished gathering comprising young parents, teachers, staff and the Guest of Honour, were left spellbound with their exhilarating medley of dance performances such as the Tribal, Jazz, Aerobics and the Hip Hop.

The Guest of Honour, Nupur Awasthi Gaur, an eminent educator and noted writer, while applauding the efforts of the students and the teachers remarked, “This stunning show was  a ‘virtual musical–visual Holi’. Seeing the ecstatic spirits of the kids dressed up in the alluring colourful hues, one could help delving into the nostalgia for a revisit to the childhood. The entire spectacle was soul soothing depicting the golden contours of life and its key essence through the best possible crusaders of love, innocence and joy. It couldn’t have been a more perfect finale with the lively fun packed event culminating on a superb note with all 400 preschoolers congregating and serenading on one forum for setting the stage ablaze with their sheer gusto. A real dream photo finish!! On the whole, it was a flamboyant toast to the school’s vision and motto- One Team… One Dream… One Mission.” 

Pointed Rita Kapoor, the never say never die principal of DPSG, “We give due connotation to cultural fests and activities since we staunchly believe their pertinence in the overall development of the young tender minds. Being a firm believer of holistic education, I lay colossal emphasis on the all round development of a student, and ensure that every child inherits and integrates the best of human values and cultural traditions, besides being good with academics.  It was immense gratifying to see all the students, irrespective of any divide, walking, dancing and performing step in step during the KiddoFest, thereby helping us achieve our core aim and objective. Ever since our inception thirty years ago, DPSG has been advocating the concept of a strong curriculum finely blended with holistic development. We believe in setting unprecedented benchmarks and chasing achievable realistic goals. In future too, we shall be hosting and organizing such rocking events.” 

When Noida came alive with mesmerizing performances and reverberations .

      Well for all those who thought that the cricketing’s biggest carnival, ‘The World Cup’ will cause a virtual curfew in the city, they were in all for a pleasant surprise on 27 February, Sunday. The day in question, being India’s first big cricket clash with the England Team, roads didn’t really wear the usual deserted look, all thanks to a fun packed musical extravaganza in the city that promised an unforgettable evening for Noidaites. Indeed as the name suggests “Ek Shaam Attachowk ke Naam”, was a day when Noida had a tryst with a glorious evening replete with mesmerizing cultural performances by the highly vivacious and talented artists of Noida at Kribhco Auditorium, Sector 1, Noida. Organized to commemorate the 3rd Anniversary of the city’s most popular online media portal www.attachowk.com (A Gateway of Noida), the event evoked an overwhelming response from a cross section of the society and prominent personalities of the city.

Launched by Shravan Kumar Sharma, the erstwhile District Magistrate of Gautam Budh Nagar in 2008, the website has ever since met with resounding success due to the elaborate, updated information on news, messages, events, media gallery, photos, and videos uploads by the Noida Community. The websites possesses A-Z information about Noida like schools, colleges, industries, hospitals, doctors RWAs, NGOs, Artists, Sports Persons etc. The contents of the websites are being created by the visitors under controlled environment. Through this websites awareness campaigns with regard to voter list, polling, security issues etc were also launched. In a way it is an online social platform for sharing and exchange of information, knowledge, views, pleasures and grievances, photos and videos. It allows users to list property for sale purchase and renting-PG, listing of vacancies and resumes without any cost. The online “available/wanted” section is immensely popular. It’s SMS service of providing instant and latest information on Noida – Greater Noida spells rage in town.

“Such scintillating events and occasions play a pivotal role in promoting musical talents of Noida. The momentous evening was enlivened by Atul Nagpal, Harinandan & Group, Ranu and Rajeev Francis, Vaidehi Goel, Pooja Srivastava, Kala Sagar Dance Institute, Vaishali Kala Kendra , Bhavik Sharma , Rajnikant Group and Orchestra Team”, opines Ashok Srivastava, President Navratan and Adviser of Attachowk.com . Those with noteworthy credentials were bestowed with Attachowk Award of Honour like ‘Rahul Bajaj’ for winning the Silver Medal in Golf in the Asian Games., ‘Arjun Bajpai for being the youngest Indian to scale Mt Everest ., ‘Ashok Srivastava’ for outstanding social service to the Noida residents, ‘Noida Diabetic Forum’ for invaluable health service to Noida Residents, ‘RWA sector 39’ for setting unprecedented benchmarks in service to local residents, ‘Kedar Nath Chakrawarty’ for his impeccable contribution in the field of hospitality.

Throwing more light on the remarkable event, the indefatigable adviser of Attachowk.com Aditya Ghildyal shared, “While Sheetal Verma Singh, Chief Development Officer, Gautam Budh Nagar was the Chief Guest for the function, the other distinguished personalities gracing the occasion included. Dr Mahesh Sharma, Dr V P Singh, Chairman I Business Institute, Benu Sehgal, VP, GIP Mall, R K Sinha, Prabhat Kumar, Founder and Director of Hindustan Music Academy USA. Attachowk.com organized the program with due support from institutions like Vinayak Hospital, I Business Institute and Navratan Jankalyan Society.”

No wonder, a glorious way to hail the meteoric growth of online media channel in the fun frolic city of Noida. And sure enough, the event added another feather in the cap for the ever growing popular Attachowk.com portal. Amen

Minnows no more

Prior to the ICC World Cup 2011 getting underway, fans and cricket lovers all over the globe were convinced that the matches between the giants and the minnows would be one sided, thus enabling them ample breathers for other key errands. Quite naturally the so called ‘one sided matches’ were expected to evoke bare minimum interest, a fact well corroborated by all those empty stands at the spectacularly decked up stadiums replete with state of the art infrastructure. The sole factor of curiosity in these matches being the amassment of the two crucial points for bolstering the final points tally in the respective Groups.

Well as luck would have it, a stunning shock defeat of the seasoned campaigners, the English Team at the hands of the ‘supposed’ minnows Ireland in Group ‘B’ has changed all the preconceived notions per se the prowess of the feeble teams. To go a step further, the fortune of the match dated 2nd March has dispelled a clear cut signal to the Gi-‘ants’ of the tournament to straight away spurn the quintessential ‘complacency factor’, if they are seriously aspiring to make it to the last eight.

 As for Ireland, they have definitely announced their arrival on the main arena.
Sheer coincidence that the amazing Irish victory delves me into the nostalgia wherein I am reminded of the eternal WB Yeats, ode titled “An Irish Airman foresees his death” which is a tribute to the Irish pilot Major Gregory echoing his sentiment with the following sonnet:

I know that I shall meet my fate
Somewhere among the clouds above;
Those that I fight I do not hate,
Those that I guard I do not love;
A lonely impulse of delight
Drove to this tumult in the clouds;
I balanced all, brought all to mind

Clearly now, irrespective of what fate awaits the Irish men in the remaining matches of the tournament, not only will their confidence be on cloud nine, but a newly found confidence must be stirring them to smell blood in every match henceforth. Pertinent to modify the famous Neil Armstrong one liner here, “That’s one small step for Ireland, one giant leap for the teams tagged minnows.”

The pressure and onus on minnows has always been relatively less since they have practically nothing to loose in stark contrast to the unprecedently sky high stakes riding on the “Old War horses” of Cricket. As an ardent follower of the religion called ‘cricket’, I must candidly share how I strongly nurtured a deep gut feeling that somewhere deep down the lane, minnows would turn the tables on their strong opponents. Well I have double reasons to feel exulted, one on my intuitive feelings coming true, and second because the World Cup following Ireland’s stunning victory over England, promises to be an all out power packed tournament from now on, thereby ensuring a complete sell out crowd.

An unspoken, yet certain grit on the mind of all the minnow teams in this World Cup namely Ireland, Canada, Bangladesh, Kenya, and Netherlands would be to deliver a superlative performance thereby denying easy victory to their opponents. If the minnows manage to scrape through to the last eight meaning quarter finals, it would mean no less than winning the Cup for them. No wonder, going by the current reversal of fortunes, it seems highly probable that one or maybe two of the relatively frail teams in this tournament might well make it to the last eight stage, thus not only packing the big whales out of this mega tournament, but exuberantly pronouncing their arrival on the 22 yard turf .

In the aftermath of the recent shock defeat of the English Team, the fans are not only anticipating matches going down to the wires, but smashing of many old standing World Cup records and statistics. Strange enough, our cold war history with Pakistan takes a backseat in context of who finally takes the Cuppa home. What makes me say so is that a substantial percentage of home born aficionados are keen to see the Cup going to a team from the sub-continent, in case India somehow fails to win it.

Amidst all this, the good news is that unlike the olden times, Indian fans are in no way aspiring to contend themselves by India merely handing out a defeat to age old rivals Pakistan. Simply because all they wish and seek is the coveted, glittering World Cup Trophy, and nothing less.

Well for attaining those glorious moments, the Indian team has to not only avoid being complacent, but also watch out for the relatively easy matches against the minnows who are actually Minnows no more!!
 

The memories that just cease to wither

Fate sometimes takes such a strange turn that we are left totally shattered and shocked for a lifetime. And it is then that we realize our sheer helplessness.  I take this opportunity to narrate the tale of my late and ever so endearing childhood mate Sarabjeet Sachdeva whom we all lovingly called ‘Baba’. We ran a mutual admiration society for each other primarily because I was studying in DPS, RK Puram, while he was enrolled in the so called rival institution, the Modern School, Barakhamba Road

On June 12, 1991 morning, Baba, who was then in Class XII, was getting ready to leave home for some work. Like any doting mother, Baba’s mother began pestering him for not leaving the house sans the morning breakfast, but Sarabjeet being the exemplary comrade as he was known amongst his close coterie, left home in a mystic hush on his bike, saying a friend in distress wanted his help. Baba’s mother Raj Sachdeva had been for some reasons best known to her, feeling frenetically anxious, and to make matters worse, she was inept in fathoming the genuine cause behind her sheer turbulence. As for Baba’s flamboyant father, a happy go lucky man, he promptly brushed aside his wife’s gratuitous apprehensions.  As luck would have it, Baba’s class XII Board examinations were to be declared the following day, and quite naturally, there was eager anticipation in the family since they had grand plans in pipeline for his further studies. However there was an unspoken sense of mayhem and anxiety in the Sachdeva household as none was wary of what tragic turn of events awaited them.

After rendering his altruistic services, Baba was virtually pleaded upon by his friend Gagan to be on the rider’s seat, something which Baba instantly acceded to.
Since it was not mandatory for pillion to wear a helmet during those days, Baba had to manage without a helmet. On that fateful day, the bike on which they were riding, went skidding near the Pakistan Embassy with Gagan losing complete control. As luck would have it, the ordeal inflicted severe head injuries to Baba, while Gagan escaped almost scratch less owing to the shield that Baba’s helmet proffered him. It was only an hour later when Baba’s had lost an enormous count of precious blood, that he was whisked to Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital. The surgery could be performed only at about 5 p.m. in the evening.

The following day when the Board examination results were declared, it was Baba’s moment of glory as he had aggregated 92%. While it was celebration time for all, Baba was battling between life and death in the hospital totally oblivious of his outstanding academic accomplishment. As Baba started showing some positive signs of recuperating, God had probably some other designs. On the 24th June night, the oxygen supply being given to Baba was haltered midway due to a sudden power failure in the hospital. Baba’s father panicked to summon the doctors on duty on finding his son gasping for breath, but by the time, anything could be done, it was already too late beyond any redemption.

Baba had finally succumbed after being comatose for a marathon 12 days, thus leaving countless of his well wishers and friends shattered and devastated.

Even on his death bed, one could see Baba smiling his usual self, and seemed to utter, “Please do not cry, grieve or shed any tears today, as God, the creator wishes to have me besides him up above the world so high, more than all you dear folks. Bu I will always miss you.”

As the School Hockey Team Captain, Baba had led his team to some memorable victories in the Inter-School Tournaments. For his heroic efforts, his name used to regularly feature in newspapers. Baba’s mother draws strength from “iron ladies” (as she call them), Neelam Kataria, Chitra Singh and Sandhya Shukla, who too tragically lost their sons in the prime. “At some stage later, I plan to form a “Society for aggrieved parent’s who lost their children in the prime so as to mitigate our endless sorrows and grief”, says Raj.

As for Baba’s father, he poetically muses, “As I lie down for my afternoon siesta and close my eyes, my inward eye opens. I see my son, Sarabjeet before me growing from a child to a young boy, handsome, strong , and resilient -full of promise and hope for the future . He seems to be telling me that life is the greatest gift of the God Almighty, it is worth living, whatever be the circumstances. He was just Seventeen and a half when he left us for his eternal home on 25th June’1991 after being involved in an accident. The very human forces which are supposed to protect lives destroyed a precious life worth more than all the wealth of the world put together. We are totally shattered and heartbroken.
I ask Him, Is Life worth living?
He answers-Yes. .”             

As a special tribute to my best and evergreen pal, I have made it a sort of annual ritual on December 15, which happens to be Baba’s birthday, to be with his parents and share the some of the great and most cherishing memories of a great soul who still manages to inspire us immensely to live life to the fullest.

 I end it here by beseeching the Almighty to bless this most noble and adoring of souls.

Lethal Cocktail of cricket, food, booze and unlimited entertainment

With ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 underway from February 19, the cricket obsessed Indians have virtually put everything on the backburner for the entire one and a half month long period. While nothing beats the euphoria for witnessing a live match in a stadium, the experience of enjoying cricket in a restaurant with giant LCD, plasmas amid great discounts and special offers  too is no less electrifying. Such is the unrelenting passion for cricket that the die hard game lovers have chartered out ingeniously stunning ways to make the most of this cricketing bonanza phase spanning a period of close to 40 days.

A new emerging trend with advent of time, has that been of watching live matches in an opulent eatery in close semblance to the experience of watching a movie in a multiplex or a hall. The joy is doubled when you watch a live match with friends and so many other like minded onlookers. Added to this, a rollicking ambience replete with scrumptious delicacies and heady cocktails makes the sporting saga all the more remarkable. Every wicket, boundary or six is greeted with thunderous applauds. A lot of corporates have effectually combined their monthly official meets in swish lounge bars and restaurants of the city so as to enable the staff to enjoy a total package of cricket, food, booze, discounts and endless entertainment. Broadly speaking, the world of cricket lovers today is split into three segments, one who enjoy watching live matches in a stadium, the other on their TV sets in their homes, while the third category is of those thronging to lounge bars and eateries for reveling in the live screenings of cricket feasting.

Baljit Issar, an ardent cricket fan points, “The conspicuous edge that an eatery or a lounge bar proffers compared to a stadium or home viewing of matches is not only the comfy lounge coupled with warm hospitality, but also boundless serenity. In simpler tone, when it comes to momentous occasions like World Cup Cricket, sport aficionados are on the lookout of innovative destination’s which are albeit near, yet far away from the usual hubbub of their homes or stadiums in the literary sense. This is when restaurants and lounge bars fit the bill boasting of state of the art infrastructure and ambience. Moreover, the choice of food and delicacies is limited in a stadium coupled with the fact that it’s quite a cumbersome process, making the way to the washrooms. One could thus safely contend that those desirous of a splendid cricketing fiesta, should ideally hit to plush joints and pubs wherein cricket gets aptly combined with great food and drinks amidst astounding ambience.”

In order to woo their guests and for ensuring more footfalls, city restaurants are offering special World Cup Cuisines with great discounts and bonanza offers. Divide NCT Delhi into five zones, south, east, north, west and the central Delhi, and you have every zone bragging of myriads of tantalizing eating out joints.

Beginning with NCT Delhi, the most sought after places during the World Cup are the Ice Lounge (MGF Metropolitan Mall, Saket), Cafe Royce (Defence Colony), Ruby Tuesday (TDI Mall, Rajouri Garden and at M-block Mkt, GK-11), Royal China (Eros Corp. Tower), Spice Market in Saket, Mocha Art House (DLF Promenade Mall, Vasant Kunj), F Grill and Lounge (Metropolitan Mall, Saket), Red Monkey (Defence Colony), Pebble Street (Community Centre, NFC) RDX Resto & Bar (Safdarjung Enclave Market), Atrium Lounge (The Surya, NFC Market), Poison Ivy (Lotus Tower, NFC), Azure Lounge Bar (Claridges, Surajkund), Urban Pind (N Block Market, GK-I), Buzz (MGF Mall, Saket), Chalchitra (M Block Market, GK-II), Man U Restaurant and Bar (Vasant Vihar), Blues Bar (CP), Island Bar (Shangri-La), Moet’s (Defence Colony), Berco’s (Pankaj Arcade, Rani Bagh Commercial Complex, Pitampura), Tapas at Lodhi, Blanco (Khan Market), CIBO (Janpath), Nyx and Onyx (Hotel Ramada Plaza, CP), 1911 Bar (Imperial), Cocoa by Belgique, Purana Villa (Jor Bagh), Chutney (The Metropolitan Hotels), Bellagio (Ashok Vihar-2), Pocket Bar (North Square Mall, Pitampura), Qba (CP), Nile Restaurant & Bar (Ashok Vihar), Wok in the Clouds (Rajouri Garden), United Westend (Punjabi Bagh West), Priviledge Punjab (Rajouri Garden), Red Coral (City Square Mall, Raja Garden), Jaypee Siddharth (Rajinder Nagar), Peppers (Chanakya Lane, Behind Akbar Bhawan, Chanakyapuri), Souza Lobo (M-Block Mkt, GK-11), Double Decker (South Ex -11), 1 Café Bar (Select City Walk), 24/7 Bar (The Lalit, Connaught), NU. Delhi Qba Grill & Bar (Malcha Marg Mkt), Malt & Co. (Hotel Hitlon, Janakpuri), TGI Friday (West Gate Mall, Rajouri Garden), Pirates of the Grill (Vishal Enclave, Rajouri Garden), Man U Restaurant & Bar (Vasant Vihar), Underdoggs Sports Bar and Grill (Ambience Mall, Vasant Kunj), Hao Shi Nian Nian (M-Block Mkt, GK-11), The International Diner (M-Block Mkt, GK-1), Fio Country Kitchen and Bar, (Said-Ul- Ajaib, Mehrauli) and so on.

Coming to the fun frolic city of Noida, there are again plethora of options to choose from namely The Sports Bar (GIP Mall), @LINKS (Radisson MBD), Park Plaza (Sector 55), Mosaic (Sector 18), Superstars (Sec-18), My Way or the Highway at Maamouchee (Centre Stage Mall, Sector 18). Ditto holds true for the millennium city Gurgaon where World Cup can be enjoyed at elitist destinations like Howzatt (Hotel Galaxy, Sector 15), Drift (Epicenter at Apparel House, Sector 44), Infusion Kitchen and Lounge (DLF Cyber City), Park Plaza (Sushant Lok-1), Euphoria (Radisson Suites, Sushant Lok-1), Turquoise Cottage (Regent Square Mall, DLF-Phase 2), Bar Zen (Sushant Lok-1, Sector 27), Zodiac (Fortune Select Excalibur, Sector 49), Golfworx (Level 4, Ambience Mall).

Avers Kedarnath Chakrawarty of The Sports Bar, Noida, “A substantial percentage of the city populace prefer watching one day limited over matches in regal restaurants, pubs and bars since it provides them a full package of exhilaration and succulent delicacies replete with mind blowing cocktail options. Technological advancements have played a crucial role in redefining the way people watch and enjoy matches in a restaurant. The lighting is LED while the menu at most places revolves around the cricketing theme. At The Sports Bar, no stone has been left unturned in tabling an ‘absolute winner package’ for our revered guests in the form of specially crafted lip smacking World Cup Cuisines namely ‘Square Cut Mushroom’ and the ‘Man of the Match Chicken’ in the backdrop of a fantabulous stadium type ambience. At the word go, the guests can sense an extraordinary evening coming their way. With splendid food, heady mocktails and cocktails like ‘Power Play’ and ‘Free Hit’ being successfully combined with all possible forms of leisure and entertainment in the form of a mega 47’ wide screen, multiple plasmas showcasing the highly pulsating live sports coverage, visitors are surely left spellbound.”

As far as World Cup Special Cuisines are concerned, every eatery or lounge bar has their distinctive menu which may vary from Chicken Curry to Veg Mezze Platter, Sunheri Macchi, Chicken Tikkas, Sehwag Ki Maa ka Pyaar, Starry Nachos, Tendulkar Ki Pasand, The Dhoni Platter, Barbeque Wings, Kurkure Shrimps, Mushroom cappuccino, Kadhai Chicken, Chicken skewers, Grill Fish Lemon Mustard, Orchard Sour, Goan Prawn Masala, Masters Strokes, Fish Orly and so on.  With a lot of dishes having been named after the players, it couldn’t have been more rollicking. Add to this, cocktails like Yorker, Sultan of Swing, Googly and Out Swing.   
As for discounts, while some are offering 25% waiver on food, and 40% on Indian Beer for a stipulated time period, there are others with a ‘buy one- get one’ free offer. Besides, there are happy hours from 12 to 7 pm at certain joints in addition to invigorating sporting contests following which winners can walk away with good prizes. Too add more fervor to the ongoing World Cup Cricket War, ingeniously carved kiosks with cricket info have been created with cricket merchandise, Vuvuzelas, face paints etc.  

Kudos to the spirit of the game!!

IT and Outsourcing industry hold the key to Noida’s realty

Noida realty has witnessed an unprecedented boom in the last five years or so, both in the residential and commercial segments. Special thanks to the numerous MNCs, IT, ITeS companies as well as the thriving BPO sector that have played a key role in inspiring real estate developers into carving astounding new age townships cum commercial hubs. It would no exaggeration to term the flourishing city of Noida as the “Silicon Valley” in lieu of all the developments. While the sailing has not been sans its share of hiccups and misses, all is hailed well that ends and results in a positive outcome. Silicon Valley generally considered to have been the center of the dot-com bubble, started from the mid-1990s and collapsed after the NASDAQ stock market began to decline dramatically in April of 2000. During the bubble era, real estate prices reached unprecedented levels. Even after the dot-com crash, Silicon Valley continues to maintain its status as one of the top research and development centers in the world.

It has been due to the benefits both in terms of cost-effectiveness and talent pool that Noida has been able to attract major companies like Adobe Systems India Pvt Ltd., Artech Technologies Pvt Ltd., Birlasoft limited, Brick Red Technologies Pvt Ltd., Cadence Design Systems, Tata Consultancy Services, ITC Infotech, Corbus (India) Pvt Ltd., Eclipse Systems Pvt Ltd., HCL Technologies ltd., JK Technosoft, Nucleus Software Exports, Perot Systems, Progressive Infotech, Saksoft Ltd, ST Microelectronics Ltd, Tech Mahindra Ltd., TechSpan India Ltd, Thompson Digital, Xansa (India) Ltd among others. But that’s not about it, as the city continues to attract companies who aspire to invest in chip design and hardware. Some of the most incredible Property Fairs have been organized in the city in order to showcase the real estate potential of Noida.

Remarks realty expert Ajit Bajaj, “Two factors primarily have worked in favour of Noida realty, one the highly encouraging strength of MNCs, IT and BPO companies in the city, and secondly, the liberal polices of the government owing to which the cumbersome process of acquiring licenses and NOCs has become far more convenient and smooth. FDI signifying allowing of foreign investments, too has boosted the real estate market of the city. With the entry of the retail segment bigwigs, the real estate market is expected to get an added impetus. Added to this, the higher FAR (floor area ratio) from 2.5 to 3 as pronounced for Noida, will also inspire the ambitious developers like Jaypee Greens, Supertech, Earth Infrastructure, Logix Group, Amrapali, Assotech, Nirala Developers, Parsvnath Developers, Gaursons etc. for building more apartments on a given plot, in turn lowering the market price. Need we say, every developer would like to capitalize upon the golden opportunity which the growing housing demand offers to them. Since the outsourcing business is growing at a marvelous pace, the demand for urban housing and commercial edifices shall subsist. It’s a win win state for all since villagers and farmers too would command a staggeringly high price for their land from the developers.”

The IT scene in Noida is perhaps the most progressive one, and is a hub for global firms outsourcing IT services. Consequent to Software Technology Park (STP), numerous software companies are inclined to establishing a permanent base here. Points Director Marketing, Wegmans IT Park, Shagun Gutpa, “Noida’s evolution as an IT and commercial Hub of the country has had a positive bearing on the demand and prices of Noida and Greater Noida realty. Coming up of STPI center in Noida gave the much needed thrust to growth of software export Industry in the city. This in turn accelerated the overall development of the region, with coming up of world class basic infrastructure, social infrastructure and also creating jobs in the region. Today, Noida houses many IT giants working in niche areas like Communication, IC Design and System Software. What proffers Noida an edge over others is the city’s thrust on technology, innovation coupled with knowledge based industries and services.”

Further, an adequate banking system, commercial banking network supported by a myriads of international financial institutions and insurance companies make matters all the more promising and bright.

Immortal holiday to the 365 day carnival city named Goa

The very thought of retreats to places far away from the city’s maddening hullabaloo is refreshing and soul lifting. And I am certainly no exception to that! While I have been a frequent traveler to exotic locales in and around the country, my recent trip to Goa, the city of golden beaches, would surely go down as the most amazing sabbaticals of my life. The credit for organizing this splendid holiday goes to my wife, indubitably an AHS (ardent holiday seeker). Well, ‘AHS’ here, happens to be my patented phrase for defining exclusive beings like my wi-fe who are always on the look out for opportunities to break the shackles of life’s usual mundane.

It was during early December last year when the ‘AHS’ in question announced the departure date of our tour to Goa, leaving me absolutely speechless as usual. Courteous as she has been all through, I was advised to apply for a ten day long leave in order to avoid any last minute blues at my office. Docile as hus‘bands’ are apparently supposed to be, or as they feign to be, I too gestured in the affirmative, while assuring that the needful shall be done. Albeit my five year son Kabir had already been to Goa some two years ago, he was unusually more excited this time probably because of the nice web pictures he had happened to glance through.

It so happened that we planned the first journey by rail, and the return by air. As luck would have it, my ticket somehow could not be confirmed, thus leaving me to take to the aerial route the following day. Since it was a complete family oriented trip comprising my parents, as well as my sister’s family, my wife wasn’t fastidious about our going separately.
It was just a matter of few hours when the great family re-union happened at Maria Rosa in Calangute, thus marking the commencement of a ten day long immortal Goa sabbatical. Our lodge was no less than any modern day community resort, being replete with a pool, bar, fine eatery, and mesmerizing landscaping. Added to this, the hospitable and affable service staff further assured us of terrific times ahead.

Since a solitary Wagon-R was inept in catering to an eleven member contingent, me and my brother in law Arjun decided to turn adventurous by renting two bikes. The breathtaking environs of Goa coupled with its scenic countryside alleyways proffer boundless adventure and thrill to the passionate traveler on a two wheeler, which is what precisely inspired both me and Arjun to rewind back to our college times. Sure enough, our assessment yielded rich dividends as we both along with our wives traversed many a miles by bike sans any hassles or exhaustion.

Unlike other Goa travelogues, where the focus primarily remains on the city’s alluring beaches and exotic locales, I would like to bring to the fore, myriads of other fascinating factors that go on to distinguish Goa from the rest of the other cities. These include the chaos free traffic of the city, scrumptious sea food, pollution free environment, breathtaking, countless clusters of coconut palms, electrifying party destination replete with astounding discotheques and eateries namely O’Coqueiro, Tito’s, Mambo’s, Brittos, Capricorn’s , highly ingenious set of denizens, resplendent ancient places of worship and amazing climatic conditions. Add to this, the ready availability of booze and petrol at virtually every third shop saves tourists, the hassles of going that extra mile for buying the two much needed ‘liquids’. That the city needs no special occasion for celebrating parties is a well known, fully acknowledged fact. The fact of the matter is that the city celebrates life, and does that with all pomp and show 365 days a year. There is actually never a dull moment in Goa as the city is always buzzing with life, activities and adrenaline.  The markets are a complete Shopper’s Paradise showcasing a wide ranging gamut of goods ranging from trendy designer apparels, fanciful items to fashion accessories, leather goods, footwear, artisan goods, ethnic wear, handicrafts, dazzling hats and so on. For the avant-garde, there exist host of brands like Reebok, Adidas, Pantaloons, UCB, Woodlands etc.

The city is split into broadly three parts, the South Goa, North Goa and the Old Goa. The focal point of everyone’s attraction revolves around North Goa mainly due to its popular beaches and tourist spots like Calangute, Baga, Anjuna, Siolim,Morgim, Ashvem, Candolim, Vagator, Arambol, Miramar and Dona Paula. The beaches in South Goa are Agonda, Colva and Palolem. There is so much to unravel in Goa that a short trip of 10-15 days is simply ridiculous to do justice to the marvel that the city holds and deservingly commands. The picturesque Siolim and Mandovi Bridge and the Zuari are a sight to behold, and more especially during the sun set and dawning times of the day.  

The most striking facet about Goa is its smooth flowing traffic, the credit for which needs to be attributed to the local traffic cops of the city who leave no stone unturned in maintaining a swift flow of traffic all day long. Being a hard core national capital city product, I was ashamed to compare the traffic scenario of Goa and Delhi. Simply so, because in Goa, the cops are always in action, while the cops in Delhi are nowhere in sight, at pandemonium and commotions where they are needed the most.       

      
Every house has a tale to narrate in the city. Simply implying that the houses are so ingeniously designed and graced by their owners that one cannot help gazing at them in complete awe.

Ironically, the beaches have been described as the ‘city’s lifeline’, a fact that I have always refuted since the vast exotic coconut palm populace of the city too needs gargantuan mention. Goa would have been no Goa sans the coconut palms and this is say with all the assertion and conviction, and I am sure all nature lovers and intellects would concur with me.

Inspired by the exuberance of the city and its passionate populace, I couldn’t help giving a new slogan to the city that celebrates life to the hilt every moment:

The city life is rocking, yet serene and peaceful!
The city life is tranquil, yet happening!!
I guess that sums the wholesome picture about what Goa is all about and what Goa stands for.

Getting into the groove, my father cheered how nature’s best was all integrated in prefect harmony and symphony. The religious tolerance is what entitles Goa to be hailed and acclaimed as a truly cosmopolitan city. No wonder, this is why one comes across so many remarkable ancient heritage temples, churches, chapels and mosques. The tourists have plethora of accommodation options in form of resorts, lodges, inns, guest houses and hotels. The renting culture of two wheelers and four wheelers is incontestably the backbone of any tourist city with Goa epitomizing the perfect instance of the same. 

Well as all good things come to an end, so did our unforgettable exhilarating vacation to Goa. With a heavy heart, we bid adieu to a truly dream destination that not only graciously hosted us for ten long memorable days, but also allured us to take an everlasting pledge for making seasonal visits to this rocking locale.

Amen!!

Choosing between Hostel and Day Boarding upbringing

Like the two aspects of the same coin, the world too is divided into broadly two segments when it comes to the core issue of choosing the mode of educational and holistic upbringing of their children. While one set enroll their loved ones in a day boarding school, there are some opting for a residential schools so as to give their children a hostel life nurturing. Incidentally, both ways of schooling have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. 

In case of a single child, there is less likelihood of the parents enrolling him or her in a hostel due to obvious emotional reasons. However, where there are two or more children, parents enroll one or maybe all of them in the hostel. Normally parents enrolling their kids in residential schools are the ardent admirers and believers of the “hostel life” owing to the numerous advantages that it proffers to them. In households where parents of a child are constantly at loggerheads or have parted ways, boarding school is the best antidote. In case of parents leading a highly stressful and busy life schedule, the hostel arrangement again comes around as a viable option for such couples.

The soft spoken, suave principal cum director of Genesis Global School (GGS), Expressway, Noida Pramod Sharma is incontestably, the best person to comment and elucidate about the merits of hostel life having spent 37 years at the helm in premiere boarding schools such as the Doon School and Mayo College. His mere presence assures best practices in the boarding for both boys and girls at Genesis Global School. Shares the veteran educationist in his usual charismatic style, “Parents can nowadays choose between four diverse ways of schooling for their loved ones, one a “day boarding”, second an “extended day school” upto 6 p.m.  The third option is a “five day boarding” with weekdays in school and weekends with parents, while the fourth one is a “regular boarding” where all seven days are spent in the hostel, except during the special breaks and holidays. GGS possesses all the four options, and is pledged towards providing the best boarding facilities in Delhi, NCR. Resident students here, enjoy the benefits of the astounding sports facilities. The boarding facilities have been built on campus in sync with the prevalent international standards, and are aligned with the parameters put forth by our foreign collaborator schools as well. Care and supervision is provided by the staff who live with the students. The school has a fully equipped sick bay with resident full-time nurses and a visiting doctor. We are introducing a novel concept of “Chief Mentor” for the hostellers who will be extremely loving, mature and compassionate towards the day to day needs and problems of a child.”

Times are a changing as more and more people besides the NRI community deem hostel grooming as a better choice for nurturing their children. With boarding schools become lenient and allowing more mid term breaks, parents have revel in with their kids more often, unlike the olden days.

Reach home safely with good tryes
 

Injuries due to road traffic accidents are a major global problem. Solving this challenge requires concerted prevention efforts. Road accidents are one of the world's largest contributors to injury problems, loss of lives and damage to property. NCT Delhi and NCR towns don’t lag behind as they often make headline news for gruesome road rages and fatalities.

According to a survey of road accidents done by TCW and Bridge To India, the causes of accidents are different in nature, but can be influenced by the quality of the automotive tyre which further depends on the rubber quality and the mixture ratio used in the production process. The quality of the tyre also has an enormous impact on accidents that are not directly caused by the tyre. Implying that a colossal proportion of accidents could be minimized with good quality tyres.  The quality of manufacturing is an essential part as it may prevent an accident or ease the outcome.
The tyres are a major factor for the breaking and the grip of a vehicle. Rubber producers, raw material suppliers, tyre producers and OEMs contribute significantly to the grip, the mileage, the noise emission and the rolling friction of a vehicle. High-quality rubber contributes to the grip as well as the breaking of vehicle and therefore is a mile-stone when trying to lower accident rates.

Bad tyres can cost you badly......

As for synthetic rubber, it possesses numerous applications from tyre to sports goods to consumer goods and industrial applications, and indeed play a pivotal role in enabling modern India.  A study conducted by Professor Horst Wildemann of the Technical University of Munich and Bridge to India in association with Lanxess, the world's largest manufacturer and pioneer of synthetic rubber shows some startling data on the road accidents in India. The total number of road traffic deaths and injuries worldwide will increase by about 65 per cent in the coming years with increase in number of cars in the country. Many countries with more number of vehicles than India have a significant lower number of road fatality rates. Traffic fatalities in India have been increasing at the rate of 8 per cent annually, with no sign of letting up. For spreading further awareness about far reaching benefits of synthetic rubber, road safety and the colossal role of good tyres in this regard, 'Rubber Day' is celebrated in December with stakeholders from government, customers and industry associations among others.

The key subject of discussion at the India Rubber Day in New Delhi was the role of synthetic rubber in tyres for improving road safety in India. Chairman of Board of Management, Lanxess AG, Dr. Axel C. Heitmann and member of board of management, Lanxess AG, Van Roessel came down from Germany for the cause. Lanxess is known for its high-quality innovations in the space of synthetic rubber. After having been successfully organized in Germany, Brazil and China, Rubber Day was celebrated in India this year. Experts expect that demand for synthetic rubber will continue to outpace natural rubber owing to its useful properties. Rubber Day facilitates a healthy and forward looking discussion on the future of synthetic rubber, its applications in different industries, market trends, environment friendly aspects of manufacturing synthetic rubber and other aspects that might unfold in this regard. Besides it also aims at fostering discussions on both commercial and environmental aspects of manufacture and consumption of high-tech synthetic rubber.

Remarks Dr. Sanjay Chaturvedi, of the Society for Help in Acute Road Emergencies (SHARE), “Three ingredients of any world-class city are economic vitality, good roads and public transportation. Road safety is matter of great concern as by 2020, road accidents would be world’s third leading cause of death, behind heart disease and diseases linked to mental illness. Incidentally India is the fourth largest country in vehicular population and third largest accident-prone country in the world. Its time we bring down this number with basic safety measures.” Surely no compromises while adhering to basic safety norms.

Happy Driving!

Tips concerning Tyres:

Use branded tyres and avoid fakes

In case of bubbling, get wheel alignment and balancing done

Regularly check air pressure

Front tyres are more vital and need to be in good shape

Discard worn out tyres

Double check the screws of the tyres

In case of tubeless tyres, periodic removal of nails or other incisive items

Keep stepni in ok condition

Ideally all four tyres should be of the same brand.

Halt at once in case of a flat tyre

Painting the town red

Parties come about as the most stimulating options for workaholics after long grueling working hours in offices. In today’s stressful lifestyle, one does not really need any occasion for throwing a bash. All one needs is time and a great destination for hosting a rocking party. Come Valentine’s Day on 14 February and denizens have a strong valid for reveling in day long merriment. Noida incidentally has always had the regal legacy of hosting astounding Valentine’s Day parties in town thanks to excellent options like GIP Mall, Centrestagemall Mall, Radisson MBD, Fortune Inn Grazia, and host of wonderful places in sector 18. Unlike the past when Valentine’s was celebrated only on 14 February, the concept has evolved to organizing Valentine’s Eve as well as an exclusive Valentine’s Week. The special Valentine’s Day carnival involves scrumptious menu with tantalizing cocktails-mocktails, mesmerizing ambience in sync with the glorious theme of the Valentine’s, rollicking music, replete with amazing offers to make the moment truly unforgettable.

Shares Pradeep Kumar of Mandarin Trail, “Being a renowned Chinese eatery of the town, we have a crammed house on Valentine’s every year. The special attractions this year comprise a unique menu of appetizers, cocktails, main course and desserts. The place will be decked up with heart shaped balloons and lights. Our channel music will play some memorable Valentine Classics to add a great deal of charm to the whole evening. We will have a candle light ambience.”

As for The Sports Bar (TSB) in GIP which is one of the most happening lounge bar’s of the city, Valentine’s Day happens to be one of the most eagerly awaited day when youngsters, couples and corporates in seek of a great time, throng to the place in great numbers with their loved near and dear ones. The place comes alive with electrifying music belted by the in-house D.Js coupled with exotic recipes. The entire place will wear a Valentine’s look this time complete with breathtaking décor and ambience. The Valentine Special at The Sports Bar includes Charcoal roasted mushroom, Sweet and sour American corn roll, Cheesy chicken nugget and Crunchy honey chicken basket as starter ensued by the Main course which comprises Penne arrabiata, Risotto ala putaneska, Penne in basil, chicken pesto and Wok flash pepper chicken. Strawberry cheese cake and Liquor mud cake constitute the dessert section. As regards the Beverages, special Cocktails on the offing are Blushing Lady, Cupids Martini and Love Dale, while the Mocktail lovers can opt for Stawberry Kiss and Passion Fizz.

“The outlet will be decorated with heart shaped Red balloons to adore the warmth of the festival of Love. DJ Anuj will be spinning the console with Retro Rock and all time favourite Love melodies. Chef Arvind has tailored a special menu for this day, which will offer a 3 course menu with nicely selected dishes. To keep the event warm and roll on, special selection of cocktails and mock tails will be offered. Before bidding adieu to our guests on a sweet note, Valentine special desserts will be offered on the house. Our distinctive mouth watering world cuisine in an awesome stadium look alike ambience promises an immortal evening for all the fun loving party goers who would get to enjoy splendid food with heady cocktails and prolific mocktails in the backdrop of a mega 47’ wide screen. We have left no stone unturned in efficiently combining entertainment with enthusiasm”, cheers manager TSB, Kedarnath Chakrawarty.

The city’s finest and swanky malls, markets and plazas will all be decked up on the occasion of Valentine’s Day. Major eating joints and outlets are introducing extraordinary menus for this special day alongside invigorating recreational events. Restaurants housed in the ultra modern shopping malls have widened the spectrum of party revelers. Noida has today numerous eateries such as Bercos Garden, Ruby Tuesday, Latitude, Geoffrey’s, Punjabi By Nature, Tantra, The Great Kabab Factory, Bamboo Shoots, The Yellow Chilli, Fortune Cookie, Swagath, Sbarro, Super Stars, where the fun frolic crowd love spending their special evening. Exclusive parties are hosted with a variety of exhilarating leisure and entertaining activities coupled with delectable delicacies.

At Gravity Restaurant and Bar, Noida, the party takes place at two different venues. Says Rajiv Puri, GM operations, “For families, we have the terrace garden with Live Ghazals, unlimited drinks, wide range of snacks, Lebanese, Oriental and Awadhi cuisine, Buffet as well as Live food counters. For couples, we have the Blue Lounge Bar offering unlimited drinks, lavish buffet and D.J Dance Floor.  At Geoffrey’s (Centrestage Mall, Noida) and (Select City Walk, Saket), there is a buffet lunch replete with unlimited drinks and a lady DJ playing popular commercial mixes.”

Well for Quantum, which has virtually witnessed a quantum leap from the days of Elevate, Valentine’s Day shall be celebrated on the weekend before i.e. on 11, 12 and 13th February. The gigantic sized discotheque with the world's largest Body Sonic dance floor is expecting a sell out with special performance by their D.Js who shall be playing music till the wee hours. Each floor will have its own special menu for food and drinks on the night.
For Ajit and Charanjeet Bajaj celebrating their silver jubilee this year, the secret of their happy married life lies in celebrating life and its beautiful days like Valentine’s with full fervor and zeal. The couple makes it a point to celebrate momentous occasions with their loved ones purely with an objective to reinforce their existent bond. This year, the couple is hosting a grand party for ten at The Sports Bar in Noida.

Best of Indian Art extravaganza under one roof

Globally speaking, India Art Summit organized from 20th to 23rd January this year in Pragati Maidan could well go down as one of the most popular and successful art fairs in terms of the total footfalls which were close to a whopping 1,28,000. With visitors from 17 cities in India, and 67 cities from around the world, the fair truly evoked an overwhelming, unbelievable response.

India Art Summit provides a matchless and distinctive opportunity for collectors and art enthusiasts to spectacle the largest and most dazzling showcase of modern and contemporary art in India. The 3rd edition of India Art Summit presented 84 exhibiting galleries from 20 countries including India, Australia, France, Germany, Korea, Japan, Singapore, Spain, Switzerland, UAE, UK and USA. Alongside the art fair, there was a Sculpture Park, Video Lounge, Curated Art Projects, Live Performances, an elaborate Speakers’ Forum, an Art Store and a wide range of exciting Collateral Events around the city of Delhi.

As for the sales trends, in the European modern artist’s category, works by Pablo Picasso sold the most, the total figure being six. While works of Indian modern artists sold across the board, FN Souza was the artist with the largest number of works sold. Souza’s works ranged from Rs. 5,00,000 to Rs. 90,00,000. The leading Indian contemporary artists namely Subodh Gupta, Bharti Kher, Sundarshan Shetty, Shilpa Gupta sold their works to international collectors and private museums in India. As many as five artworks amounting to Rs. 4.5 crores were sold. Besides, several international museums commissioned works of contemporary Indian artists. Added to this, many big ticket sales were made to international collectors, foundations and top museums from the USA, Europe, and Israel, Hong Kong, Singapore etc.

A birds eye view...of exhibition

A few galleries reported total sales of over Rs. 4.5 crores. Several private and institutional collectors bought art works valued over Rs. 9 crores. Approximately 4-5 works were sold per gallery, with a few galleries managing a complete sell out. London’s Lisson Gallery was gratified with overall sales that comprised two works by Indian born sculptor Anish Kapoor, an Indian-born sculptor, for a mind boggling £400,000 each, the highest price fetched.

Compare this to 2009 when over 50 per cent of exhibited works were sold for a total of $5.3m, with about 30-40% of buyers being new. Interestingly, this year saw hundreds of new and first time buyers of art, with some galleries enunciating that up to 80% of buyers were either new, or first time buyers. Approximately, Rs 5,00,00,000 worth of new media art including video art works got sold. Incidentally, most of the art works sold were priced in the range of Rs.1,00,000 to 5,00,000. Shares art connoisseur and curator Komal Anand, “The India Art Summit has set an unprecedented benchmark for the evolution and transformation of Indian contemporary art. In times to come, the fair promises to scale new echelons and path breaking frontiers in the field of art. It’s a glorious sight to behold viewing the rich cultural heritage of the country under one roof. There has been an encouraging, and in fact more aptly, a meteoric growth for the India Art Summit year after year. Just paving the way for Delhi to be hailed as the country’s cultural capital in the near future. Such events play a pivotal role and fortunately, the prices today fall in the affordable bracket. These fairs demonstrate the rising influence and interest in the Asian Art Market, and it’s just the beginning of an interminable renaissance.”

Surely an extraordinary art fiesta that is poised for phenomenal growth!!  

Time to say yes we ‘can’ wage war against disease named ‘Can’cer

The first thought that crosses the mind as the word ‘cancer’ is uttered is life threatening, and quite rightly so, the disease actually imposes enormous threat to the precious human lives, if not detected or prevented at the very outset. While numerous agendas and awareness campaigns have been organized from time to time, the real onus rests on the common man on the street to fight, and in fact, wage an all time war against this age old deadly disease, known for consuming countless of lives allover the world. In our families too, there is a strong likelihood of some dear member falling prey to cancer at some point or the other. The ironical aspect about us is that we get alarmed only after a tragedy has struck us, and not the other way around. Cancer is undeniably the leading cause of death around the world and if the estimates of WHO are anything to go by, around 84 million people will die of cancer between 2005 and 2015 without intervention. Incidentally, every year on 4 February, WHO supports International Union Against Cancer to promote ways to ease the global burden of cancer. Preventing cancer and raising quality of life for cancer patients are frequent themes. In order to spread concern, awareness, encourage the prevention, detection and treatment about the killer disease Cancer, the concept of celebrating February 4 as “World Cancer Day” (WCD) came into being.  The campaign is led by the International Union Against Cancer (UICC) which is a global consortium of more than 350 cancer-fighting organizations from over 100 countries. The strive of WCD is to make cancer a political and social priority through global communications marking, and encouraging policy makers and UICC member organizations. UICC has been coordinating World Cancer Day activities since the past five years, supported by members, partners, the World Health Organization, the International Atomic Energy Agency, and other international bodies. The campaign emphasizes that an astounding 40% of cancers worldwide can be prevented through healthy behaviors such as ensuring a smoke-free environment for children, knowledge of vaccines for virus-related liver and cervical cancers, being physically agile, adhering to a balanced, healthy diet, avoiding obesity as well from over-exposure to sun.

The year 2008 focused on giving children and young people a smoke-free environment while year 2009 aimed at an energy-balanced lifestyle based on healthy diet and physical activities. The onus of year 2010 was on attaining knowledge about vaccines against viruses that lead to cancers. Year 2011aspires to teach children and teenagers ways to avoid UV exposure by being "sun smart". In 2005, 7.6 million people died of cancer with more than 70 percent of the deaths occurring in low and middle income countries. WHO has developed a series of six modules that provides practical advice for programme managers and policy-makers on how to advocate, plan and implement effective cancer control programmes, particularly in low and middle income countries. Says Saroj Kassal of Defence Colony who not only survived the rigours of deadly cancer disease, but is leading an extremely healthy life ever since. Says the never say never die champion Kassal, “My cancer was detected rather late, but my sheer passion for life gave me the courage to endure all the trauma and agony that ensued my treatment. Since it was a battle of a lifetime, I knew I had to turn the tables on my deadly disease in order to emerge victorious and healthier. The primary objectives of cancer treatment are cure, prolongation of life, and improvement of the quality of life. Fortune favours the brave, and I became the perfect instance of the ageless dictum when the doctor pronounced that I had recovered and could go home. My joy knew no bounds, and I instantly pledged my life towards the cause of other cancer patients. The unstinting support of my children played a pivotal role in my miraculous recovery. Except blessings and prayers, I have no words to express my sheer gratitude towards them. Being a cancer survivor, I agree with the cliché that a well-conceived, well-managed national cancer control programme lowers cancer incidence, besides improving the life of cancer patients irrespective of what resource constraints a country is facing.”

A national cancer control programme is a public health programme designed to reduce the number of cancer cases and deaths and improve quality of life of cancer patients, through the systematic and equitable implementation of evidence-based strategies for prevention, early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and palliation, making the best use of available resources. A comprehensive national cancer programme evaluates the various ways to control disease and implements those that are the most cost-effective and beneficial for the largest part of the population. It promotes the development of treatment guidelines, place emphasis on preventing cancers or detecting cases early so that they can be cured, and provide as much comfort as possible to patients with advanced disease.

Says surgical oncologist Dr B Niranjan Naik of Dharamshila Cancer Foundation and Research Centre, Delhi, “Cancers are lifestyle diseases with 90 percent cases happening due to environmental factors and 10 percent due to genetics. Cancer is a disease of failure of regulation of tissue growth. One-third of all cancer cases are preventable and prevention is undeniably, the most cost-effective long-term strategy for cancer control. Tobacco is the single largest preventable cause of cancer in the world today as it causes 80 percent of all lung as well as oral cancer deaths. We have to follow and ‘EARN’ the four pillars of health. ‘EARN’ here signifies exercising regularly, keeping a positive ‘attitude’, having adequate rest, and maintaining a nutritious diet. Dietary modification is another significant approach to cancer control. Early detection of cancer immensely increases the chances for successful treatment. There are two key components of early detection of cancer, one education to promote early diagnosis and the other, screening. “

Conquer depression holistically once and for all

My close friend is in severe depression, his sister is undergoing treatment for depression at the city hospital, Rohit’s wife is suffering from depression and has been on anti depressives since past one year. No wonder, umpteen times in life, we would have come across this utterance, but sardonically enough, would have hardly spared a holistic thought towards the root cause of depression and consequent remedies for coping with this acute ailment. In simpler lingo, “Depression” is nothing, but a state of mind when one experiences unusually low mood phases or mood swings. A depressed person is commonly found to be experiencing feelings such as melancholy, hollowness, hopelessness and helplessness. According to experts, when one has depression, there’s nothing more pertinent than getting effective and instant treatment. Depression may stem due to death of a close family member, divorce, huge monetary loss business, recent loss of a good job, unable to meet life’s stringent deadlines and challenges, prolonged illness and the litany of causes is just endless. Significantly, people, over the years, have started resorting to holistic ways, besides the usual allopathic mode of treatment, for redeeming their loved ones from nearly gloomy depressed and desperate situations. A depressive state involves all three viz. body, mood, and thought process. It is normally difficult to come out of a depressive state sans proper treatment. Treatments such as antidepressant medications and psychotherapy can reduce and at times, eliminate the symptoms of depression. Sometime ago, I spoke to a renowned Astro-scientist and holistic heeler Dr Rakesh Khera who gave me a great deal of insight into the finer facets of Holistic Health. It was extremely informative to learn from him that in Holistic Health, stress is on knowing the patient who has the disease rather than knowing the disease that patient has. Dr Khera is convinced that that a substantial populace is unaware about Holistic Health and why modern medicine (allopathic treatment) lags behind in certain key aspects. Quiz him if Holistic Health rejects Western system of medicine in toto, and he is quick to point how in the case of infectious diseases, nutritional and hormonal deficiencies, bodily defects that need surgical intervention, it follows the western system . According to him, a “Long relaxed conversation” has simply no Substitute. Holistic Health means a feeling of wellness and providing a way of life that prevents occurrence of acute ailments.

However I got enlightened in the literary sense, when I met Pandit Satish Chand (Poli) who elucidated me about a novel way of coping with depression by merely gazing at “Akhand Jyot” (Eternal Light of faith and worship) in a Temple. Even in Hindu Mythology, colossal significance is accorded to “Akhand Jyot” which is a divinely sight to behold. Talk to priests in various historical temples all over, and most of them will have loads to share about the significance of Akhand Jyot which could be either be a Desi Ghee or Til oil immersed lamp in usually a finely designed brass hardware edifice. “Akhand” signifying ‘eternal or the everlasting’ evidently implies the ‘light which is interminable’.

Says Pandit Satish, “The very sight of Akhand Jyot is so mesmerizing and invigorating that if a depressive patient puts oil or ghee in this Jyot for precisely ten days, family members and friends around them will begin observing considerable changes in their lives and general behaviour. Meditating before Akhand Jyot has indubitably all the more far reaching effects, besides being panacea for myriads of physical and mental evils. Such is the power and sanctity of this ‘celestial eternal light’ which epitomizes hope, progress, success and prosperity, that persons suffering from depression, actually start feeling an urge to not only live, but also feel rejuvenated to bounce back into life’s mainstream with passage of time. As a temple priest, I come across countless people suffering from depression, which has now become a common phenomenon. While I am certainly not averse to present day mode of modern medical treatment, I feel a strong divine urge to advise depressive persons and others in distress to adhere to “Akhand Jyot line of treatment”, which has practically no adverse effects. On the contrary, the only impact it will have on a sick person, will be a positive and a fruitful one.” Quite a revelation!!

As I trail back a few years, I recall how my mother’s daily custom of lighting a desi ghee lamp at our home not only made our lives much more balanced and meaningful, but also proffered us enormous joy and peace. Besides, it enabled me to keep off from bad vices, and more notably at times, when I was bedridden, the mere sight of a small ghee lamp revivified me. Divert your thoughts to the unique ‘Festival of lights’, Diwali, which people celebrate all over the world with full pomp, festivity and spirit. The mere thought of Diwali festival is enough to brace us up and stimulate our mood, for the ‘Diwali light’ akin to the radiance of ‘Akhand Jyot’, not only shuns darkness, but also enables us to envision life sagaciously and astutely. 

If prayers are sincere, rewards and boons from the Almighty are bound to be bestowed on us

Spirituality in the literary sense connotes embarking on a voyage that transcends one into an altogether different world or, a new planet far away from the maddening world. Simply put, it uplifts you both mentally and spiritually into much more loftier echelons of peace, tranquility and fore vision about life. Being spiritually and ritualistically inclined proffers divine ecstasy to those traversing these blissful boulevards. You could be excused for deeming it smooth sailing, but, the fact of the matter remains that treading on the spiritual alleyways is no cakewalk, simply because it needs lifetime’s grit and fortitude for being eligible to taking to the arduous trail of spiritualism and the mystic world of theology. It is a common phenomenon that we mostly resort to mysticism in distressful and traumatic times when nothing seems in sight, compared to when the times are hale, hearty and rosy. Nonetheless irrespective, of what draws you to spirituality, what really matters eventually is the “nobleness of your devotion” with which you invoke the ‘Divine Power’ that controls the Universe. Based upon your devotion and more prominently, the ‘Statement of Purpose’ behind all our prayers is what rouses the Divine Power towards us. In simpler lingo, it is the blend of devotional spirit combined with the righteousness behind our prayers that clinches it in the long run for the devotees or the seekers in the court and the royal bastions of the “Supreme Controller” of this Universe.

Besides, there is the universally accepted ‘Law of Karma’ that too comes into foreplay while determining what is bestowed on us, or what eludes us, on accurate account of our ‘Karma’s’, which are nothing, but are a precise balance sheet of our past and present day deeds and misdeeds. A prime instance in this context are the staunch devotees who have long been in the divine service of the Supreme Power, but have still not seen the fulfillment of their long cherished wishes and desires, while others who may literally be new comers to the fascinating and mystic world of spirituality, have instantly been rewarded with realization of their desires and wishes. The justification is quite clear and lucid to infer, as the distinction meted out has been solely and wholly on account of one’s past and present life Karma’s that play a pivotal role in deciding what one is eluded of or what one shall attain. The sooner the Karmas’s get expedited, the better, and we need to be scrupulous in realizing and coming to terms with this universal fact.   

I feel it extremely imperative to share that merely attaining ‘divine refuge’ in the citadels of the Ultimate Power that beholds everything and anything that concerns the world around us, is a divine blessing in itself, that gets showered on the few lucky, chosen souls. The punch line here is that we need to cherish and rejoice on being accepted in the divine refuge that lies at the footsteps of the ‘Super Power’. This is also the launching pad for formally getting into the world of spirituality and thus presages a moment to exult and celebrate. Once this beginning is made, there’s simply no looking back for those wishing to have a celestial communion with the Omnipotent. Spirituality subsequently transports you to the next realm which is being ritualistic wherein, you indulge in daily rituals that could range from offering prayers, flowers, lighting a lamp to adorning your place of worship.

As a spiritually and ritualistically inclined being, I accord due reverence to all religions, faiths, customs and practices because I realize that eventually the power that binds all diverse religions, faiths and practices is one common “Power or Supremacy” whom we refer to as God, Jesus, Ram, Rahim or Allah as per our respective faith orientations.

Before penning down, it’s obligatory on my part to educate and emphasize about the importance of being firm and stanch in one’s respective faith for if the faith is unswerving, then any magnitude of problem would simply get deflected back in the direction it came, implying patently that it would have no or negligible impact on such steadfast upholders of faith and conviction.

Holistics before academics

The benefits of Education are countless as it not only helps us achieve an enviable status in society, but also helps us to fulfill myriads of materialistic pleasures that only good education and money can buy. However what holds more bearing than academics and other learning modules is the imbibing of high moral and ethical virtues which holistic education alone can provide. When we talk about holistic education as an independent subject, it might sound an intriguing, complicated issue, yet reality remains that it’s an extremely simple chapter comprising easy to comprehend set of rules that nonetheless need to be ardently pursued.

Another important aspect which needs to be put on the dais is how the spectrum of holistic learning extends homogeneously and evenly to all sections and strata of the society. This, for the simple reason that everyone needs to adhere to the basic tenets of holistic restraint, irrespective of one’s social status or background. Joining in to echo her precious thoughts on the relevance of holistic education in today’s life, Garima Sharma, eminent Early Childhood Education expert remarks, “The curriculum being imparted at various levels of education process needs to integrate holistic component with academics in order to ensure the full round development of students. Who says, it’s only the under privileged class, or the people from economically weaker sections of the society that need to be imparted the finer nuances of holistic erudition primarily because students studying in hi-end schools too need vital holistic lessons on a regular basis so as to keep off from inculcating unwarranted vices. Every now and then, in utter disbelief, we keep reading in papers, or view on national TV, youngsters from taking to crimes like thefts, kidnapping for ransom, murders, being committed by youngsters hailing from respectable and affluent families. Besides the aforesaid crimes, such youths also make prime time headlines for being involved in felonies like heavy indulgence in drug abuse during rave parties, road rages in the aftermath of drunken driving, wreaking havoc on innocent party revelers in an inebriated state, and more recent of all, circulating the MMS of their female friends in compromising positions. Isn’t this so shocking and detestable? Well, the million dollar question is to introspect and explore ways for curbing all this. No rocket science to conclude that somewhere due to a break in the usual monotony, it has lead to young minds going haywire and berserk in life, only to further result in dire consequences.

Primary student immersed in Prayer...

The solution is simple as all educationists and academicians need to do, is to ensure regular lessons of holistic learning throughout the student life.” Holistic touch to modern day education incorporates fixed schedule for meditation sessions as well as other interactive elements that do a world of good to educate young tender minds about the distinction between good and evil. Moreover, it apprises them about the colossal significance of possessing good virtues and morals for accomplishing greater heights in times to come. With a well defined objective of inculcating strong values for traditions and culture, schools and various educational institutes organize special carnivals for celebrating momentous ancient festivals. Behind every such learning practice or ritual, the endeavour is to instill firm and everlasting assets of ethical and integrity among the children populace. Since there is equal probability of kids falling prey to any of the existent or the modern day vices, the need to underline the importance of all such key programs increases all the more. In the literary sense, a holistic approach integrates all three viz. mind, body and soul, thereby helping attain a state of total biological equilibrium, where the emotional, sensory, and spiritual elements get harmoniously balanced. It helps in making children peaceful, more focused and vibrant. Meditation is panacea for all physical, emotional and mental ailments, and this is why schools all over the country nowadays have inculcated ‘meditation’ as part of their daily curriculum. Meditation does wonders to the overall development of a child, and is indubitably, one of the key components of holistic approach. Elucidates Santosh Kalyani, CEO of the Character Development Initiative, “The main aim is to ensure holistically sound batches of students every year. If youngsters are spiritually inclined, they are bound to perform well in academics. However, the same rule does not hold true with brilliant students, since they too stand prone to committing misdeeds and countless number of gratuitous antics. If bright students bring laurels to their schools, honestly speaking, one bad deed by a student brings loads of disrepute to the legacy of the school or institution to which he or she belongs. The mere reference of “misdeed” or “misdemeanor”, and it instantly correlates us to the ever so crucial “upbringing factor” which makes it easy to conclude that due to gross neglect during the initial formative years of development, a student went astray.

Awful to see a substantial chunk of youngsters serving jail terms. Albeit any city would boast of numerous hi-end schools these days replete with state of the art infrastructure, opulent amenities, highly meritorious teaching and administrative staff, they might still be considered ‘lacking’ or ‘incomplete’, if they are in inept in proffering due connotation to holistic education. Simply implying the sheer pertinence of holistic touch to modern day education.” “Character Development Initiative” or simply “CDI” is an intervention specifically developed, to empower students and youths in demanding situations to maintain their composure and face up to life, when they encounter challenges or situations which demand strength of character. It is an interactive process of training and learning, which enables the beneficiaries to acquire knowledge, and to develop attitudes and skills which support the adoption of healthy behaviours. Cheers Nidhi Sirohi, principal Kothari International School (KIS), “It’s been four years since KIS came into being. The USP of our institution is the perfect integration of curriculum with holistic development and nourishment. We epitomize to make learning meaningful, collaborative and immensely enjoyable. KIS is a modern day boarding school fully air-conditioned and furnished with state of the art facilities and services to the students to provide holistic education and enable full development of their personality. It aims to provide a happy and supportive environment that nurtures the individual abilities of the children; allows them to think independently and innovatively, take their own initiative and actively participate in the learning process. Being a firm believer of holistic education, I lay immense emphasis on all round development of a student, and ensure that he or she inherits and integrates the best of human values and cultural traditions, besides being good with academics.” No doubts really, that educating children the holistic way would ensure two key purposes, firstly good academic results, and secondly, help curtail the growing crime rate among youngistan populace of the country.

Weather the winter chill by taking sabbaticals

January 31, 2011 You beat the heat in summers by taking a dip in the pool, or guzzling a glass of chilled beer. Likewise, the best way to weather the chill of December-January-February is by taking a much needed sabbatical, away from the maddening commotion of the city’s usual hubbub. Well, an unforgettable holiday to rollicking destinations and unconventional retreats.

Couple united in nature!

With the mantra today being, ‘Work hard, party even harder’, a substantial percentage of people opt for exotic destinations to break free from the usual monotony by opting either for a weekend getaway, or plan a week long trip. With tour operators and travel agents doling attractive packages, the aspiring tourists are having the time of their life. It’s pertinent to know various tourism packages such as Beach holidays, Wildlife tours, Pilgrimage tours, Style holidays, Weekend holidays, Hill retreats, Adventure holidays, Heritage holidays, Taj holidays, Woman only packages, etc in order to know what best can be availed of. Once tourists have finalized their budget and destination, they have the option of going in for a package tour of their choice. It is normally advisable to go in for a tour package as every aspect from the minor to the most intricate gets adequately taken care of. With Tour operators like Apex Travel and Tours in East of Kailash and Gurgaon offering the concept of ‘customized holiday packages’, it ensures a fully gratifying experience with negligible scope of any discontent. Talking about the domestic travel scenario, Goa and Kerala Backwaters are indubitably the most preferred destinations since people from North have a strong penchant for the warm climate and the exotic beaches. Besides, there is a strong lean towards Jaipur, Udaipur, Devigarh Fort, Mandawa Fort, Pushkar, Agra, Corbett National Park, Ananda in the Himalayas, Shimla, Manali, Mussourie.

Relaxation in nature...

Young parents combine fun holidays with education since they are keen to showcase the rich heritage and legacy of their motherland to their kids. Says Sanjay Narula of Apex Travel and Tours, a veteran in the tourism industry and a leading tour operator, “There are plethora of options before the traveler. In sync with the adage, “All is well that ends well”, people too wish to bid adieu to the going year in elegance, and the best way is to be far away from the maddening hullabaloo. Who doesn’t wish to be pampered? The modern day holiday tours are all aimed at giving the traveler an unforgettable experience. It’s a complete package comprising fun, sight seeing, wellness privileges like spa, ayurveda massage, shopping, spirituality, education etc. Few cities all over the globe match the legacy, history and heritage of Agra today. It is the single most famous tourist destination of India and owing to it’s glorious past has lots more to offer an astute traveler besides the resplendent Taj. As for Backpacking, it is a form of low-cost, independent international travel. However, we don’t promote India as a Backpacker tourist destination.”

Creations in sand at a beach by the creative children

On an average, a week long trip could cost anywhere between 25,000 to one lakh per person inclusive of the air travel, airport transfer, stay, sight seeing, breakfast. A weekend trip by train or personal transport could cost anywhere between 10,000 to 50,000. The costing varies on various factors like the type of accommodation, mode of travel etc. Emotes Rajesh Thomas of Globus Travels, “Thanks to the Indian Domestic Tourism Market for sustaining us in the turbulent times. The one distinctive aspect about Indian culture and heritage has been its outstanding and impeccable hospitality that have brought rich laurels to it from far flung nooks and corners.”

Tour operators follow the ethos of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava' meaning guest is God. Owing to their tie-ups with leading resort spas, tour operators treat their revered tourists as divine souls.  Kanatal Resort and Spa, a hamlet built around breathtaking hills, personifies the romantic aura of Tehri District, Uttarakhand. Located just 300 kilometers by road from Delhi, it’s a wonderful place to celebrate New Year.

Mother-son ready for water games...at Goa beach

Cheers corporate executive Mamta Gupta, “With amplified pace of life, growing liquidity, and chilly winter months of December-January-February, people like me love freaking out to tranquil destinations for spending a quiet weekend with our children so as to enjoy amenities that the city life is devoid of. We get bestowed with lavish elegances comprising card room, video games arcade, bowling alley, squash, go-karting, badminton, virtual golf, billiards along with swimming pools and bars.”

When all roads lead to Kalkaji Temple

Braving the breezy chill of January month, countless devotees congregated on the holy premises of the famous Kalkaji Temple to witness unprecedented magic of electrifying devotional musical extravaganza. The occasion being the eighth successive Bhavya Bhagwati Jagran celebrated every year on 25th January in Kalkaji Temple. The grandeur of the entire carnival was a spectacular once in a lifetime sight replete with renowned performers, opulent stages, diverse range of aromatic flowers, robust security arrangements and more significantly arrangement of scrumptious Bhandara Prasad ensued by free distribution of pious merchandise.

The resounding success and glory of this mega Jagran Night was made possible due to the unstinting efforts of the ardent devotees of Goddess Kali who had been working day and night since past two months despite leading a hectic life schedule. Since the Temple of Goddess Kali happens to be situated in South Delhi, the number of devotees from this belt outnumber devotees pouring in from other nooks and corners. For South Delhiites, the 25th January Jagran holds immense significance due to both spiritual as well as emotional reasons. Little children donning the best of colourful dresses showed no signs of drowsiness even past midnight since everyone wanted to revel in the astounding merriment. Neither the cold nor the exasperating rush could deter or dampen the spirit of devotees flocking the place from far flung places. Such was the amazing enthusiasm that even at 4 am in the wee hours of 26th morning, not an inch of space existed in the Jagran Pandal, but no one seemed to complain.

Come January every year, and one see the majestic Temple of Goddess Kali all decked up for the divinely 25th Jagran night. The men behind this devotional show of resplendence at its pristinely best are the obsequious and energetic team of Shree Kalkaji Sajja Sewadar Mitra Mandal known for their majestic celebrations. As many as eleven famed singers sang enchanting bhente (soul soothing devotional recitations) in praise and honour of the Holy Mother this time. While the year 2010 saw the Jagran festivity getting extended to thirty six hours instead of the customary twelve hours, this year’s Jagran was a one day affair commencing from 9 am in the morning of 25th, and culminating on the morning of 26th at 6 am. What gives the 25th January Jagran in the premises of Kalkaji Temple a distinctive touch is the number of renowned singers performing one after the other on one stage. Surely a remarkable way for appeasing the Holy Mother.

Renowned Punjbai singer Gurdas Mann forayed into devotional singing after24 long years, and quite aptly, chose the forum of 25thJanuary Kalkaji Temple Jagran for doing so.
The intentional 2 am time slot of Narender Chanchal, the biggest crowd puller is done so to keep the ever swelling crowds glued to their places. And once Chanchal makes the grand entry, there’s just no stopping the devotees from going berserk with excitement. Jagran and Narender Chanchal in fact, have become synonymous over the years. Ever since Chanchal took to devotional singing, the concept of Jagrans and Chowkis has acquired an altogether novel dimension. By the grace of Divine Goddess, Chanchal is said to have revolutionized the concept of enthralling people with his heart rendering and soulful ‘Mata ki Bhente’ recitations.  

Anuj Mittal, president of Shree Kalkaji Sajja Sewadaar Mitra Mandal who has been organizing these mega Jagran Nights with his indefatigable team of devotees points, “The unique aspect about the January Jagran is its being celebrated in the premises of the ancient and famous Shree Kalkaji Temple. The whole Temple is transformed into one mammoth festivity destination during the Jagran. People haling from different caste, creeds and regions congregate here. This year saw the revival of traditional hymns, also known as “Pakke Bhajan” in reverence of the Supreme Mother. About 501 devotees participated in the ‘Durga Stuti Paath” wherein all of them individually lit their oil lamps alongside their Kalash. It is believed that the true devotees who remain awake during the Jagran night are granted boons and rewards by the Divine Mother.”

Kalkaji Temple all decked up for the big Jagran Night

South Delhi is abuzz with inconceivable festivity as ardent devotees of the Divine Goddess are captivatingly engrossed in giving the eighth successive Bhavya Bhagwati Jagran a grand, ceremonial touch. Come January every year, and one see the majestic Temple of Goddess Kali all decked up for the divinely 25th Jagran night. The men behind this devotional show of resplendence at its pristinely best are the obsequious and energetic team of Shree Kalkaji Sajja Sewadar Mitra Mandal who are well known for their extravagant celebrations. As many as eleven famed singers will sing enchanting bhente (soul soothing devotional recitations) in praise and honour of the Holy Mother. While the year 2010 saw the Jagran festivity getting extended to thirty six hours instead of the customary twelve hours, this year’s Jagran will be a one day affair commencing from 9 am in the morning of 25th, and culminating on the morning of 26th at 6 am. It’s a sight to behold as passionate devotees go all out to ensure the total success of the grand carnival. What gives the 25th January Jagran in the premises of Kalkaji Temple a distinctive touch is the number of renowned singers performing on one stage replete with astounding adorning of pandals coupled with the glittering, sweet-smelling flower garlands. Surely a remarkable way for appeasing the Holy Mother.

Renowned Punjbai singer Gurdas Mann is foraying into devotional singing after24 long years, and quite aptly, he chose the forum of 25th January Kalkaji Temple Jagran as the best way to do that. A lavish Bhandara will follow with the distribution of Prasad at the end.

Narendra Chanchal....Maata's voice..

Jagran and Narender Chanchal have become synonymous over the years. Ever since Chanchal took to devotional singing, the concept of Jagrans and Chowkis has acquired an altogether novel dimension. By the grace of Divine Goddess, Chanchal is said to have revolutionized the concept of enthralling people with his heart rendering and soulful ‘Mata ki Bhente’ recitations.   For Chanchal who has been a regular at Kalkaji Temple, the 25th January Jagran holds colossal relevance. Remarks the midnight singer as he is popularly referred to, “Being one of the ancient most Shaktipithas, the dignity of Kalkaji Temple powers the devotees to return here time and again. No one with a pure heart returns empty handed from her portals. The winter chill is no deterrent for the massive strength of devotees coming from far flung places to attend the 25th January Night Jagran. The devotees indulge in great festive revelry, and as the night progresses, so does the exuberance and buoyancy of the ever deluging crowds.”

DEVOTIONAL SINGER PARVEEN JOHAR

One person who deserves special mention is Anuj Mittal, president of Shree Kalkaji Sajja Sewadaar Mitra Mandal who has been organizing these mega Jagran Nights with his indefatigable team of devotees. “The best part about the January Jagran is its being celebrated in the premises of the ancient and famous Shree Kalkaji Temple. The whole Temple is transformed into one mammoth festivity destination during the Jagran. People haling from different caste, creeds and regions congregate here. This year will see the revival of traditional hymns, also known as “Pakke Bhajan” in reverence of the Supreme Mother. About 501 devotees will partake in the ‘Durga Stuti Paath” wherein all of them will individually light their oil lamps alongside their Kalash. The opulent Jagran fiesta presents a mesmerizing sight with devotees, dressed in the best of their traditional attires, pouring in from all parts of the country. It is believed that the true devotees who remain awake during the Jagran night are granted boons and rewards by the Divine Mother.”

Like every year, ample security measures have been taken to safeguard the Temple as well as the unprecedented large gathering of devotees from any untoward eventuality. In the wake of the recent terror attacks, security in and around the temple complex has been strengthened coupled with the installation of CCTV’s. The sewadaars of the Temple work in tandem with the security staff for keeping a close tab on suspicious elements.

Kalkaji Temple- A Devotional Paradise in the capital city..

Kalkaji Temple is indubitably one of the most famous, overwhelming and frequented Devi Maa’s Temple the world over. Being one of the ancient most Shaktipithas, the Temple is abode of Divine Goddess “Kalka” or “Kali”, who is an incarnation of Goddess Durga. Situated atop a small hill, the temple presents a mesmerizing sight with devotees, dressed in the best of their traditional attires, pouring in from all parts of the country, with dazzling puja thalis and other ritualistic accessories. On special occasions, owing to an unprecedented large number of visitors to the temple, the queue to the Bhawan is bizarrely long and scary. While the long queue at first, does send shivers down the spine for visitors keen on seeking early Darshan of Maa Kalka, visitors are advised to wait for their turn by following the queue. Kalkaji Temple, a Shakti shrine is legendary and a rich heritage legacy of the city that is open to countless devotees thronging on a daily basis as well as during exclusive religious festivities. Beautiful light diyas adorn the temple, and one can see women, men, children and old populace among the endless queue of devotees. With Jaikaras being chanted all over, it is an enchanting and enthralling experience for the onlookers. As far as various rituals are concerned, the most momentous ones are ‘Mata Snanam’ with Milk and Gangajal ensued by morning and evening Aarti. Besides, it is a spectacular sight to behold in the night, when daily devouts to the temple participate in the breathtaking “Sajja Ritual”, which happens to be the final ritual for the day when Divine Mother goes off to her slumber. Devouts sing soul rendering ‘Bhentein’ in praise of Maa Kalka, while others simply clap and dance for registering their reverence in Mother’s Shree Charan. The ritualistic (Puja Archana) is performed on a monthly basis by the 1000 strong family clan of Brahmins. Folklore is replete with numerous tales of this exquisitely divinely Temple. There’s a great deal of significance attached to devotees observing a continuous 40 day “Chalia ritual”. It is widely accepted belief that those who are able to devotionally perform this ritual with the essential prerequisites are rewarded by Maa Kalka with their long treasured wishes and desires. Carved out of marble and black pumice boulders, Kalkaji Temple has 12 ingeniously designed Dwars (doors) from where devotees can gain access to the majestic Bhawan for seeking Goddess Kalka’s Darshan. More precisely, it is this structure that houses the most revered Goddess Kalka in the ‘Pindi’ form. Presently, the Temple is undergoing a major revamp and promises to wear a stunning look shortly. Additionally, there are numerous other Dharamshalas alongside shopping stalls in and around the temple complex that enable countless number of visitors to pick and buy the wide ranging variety of Puja Samagari. The temple, centrally located in the heart of south Delhi is in close proximity to posh colonies of Kalkaji, Okhla, New Friends Colony, East of Kailash and city’s industrial hub, Okhla.

Holy Mother..shrine