The Dip in the Ganges

Nestled in the hillocks in Uttrakhand is the majestic Ganga. Its vast beauty has always amazed me and awakened a sense of wonderment. How can a river take in so much crap (literally) and yet be so so beautiful. Well that’s the Ganges for you!

I planned a trip to Rishikesh for the joy of living in the wilderness and feeling the river. We booked a camp near the Ganges, a little on the outskirts to beat the weekend crowd. We trudge down the hilly road to the camp. Our adventure begins from the trek itself. The tents were reasonable, but we didn't care much. The nature around was too overwhelming for anything else. 

Even though we were tired after the 24 hour journey, the energy of the area is simply infectious. Its difficult to stop oneself from

taking a dip in the chilly waters. We play around, we kayak a bit, swim in shallow waters and fool around a lot. The  water rafting was a beautiful and an exciting experience for all of us. The raft trudges on the 50-60 feet deep water surrounded by hills. The guide ensures safety but its difficult to think straight when the raft passes through the gushing waves of the river. The people have named the rapids with funny names like black pearl etc; matching the ferocity of teh rapids.
Rishikesh has a number of other activities like rock climbing, cliff jumping, cliff crossing, etc. But we stuck to the water sports only.


The move away from nature to the city was extremely tough. Just like in all our other trips, we promise the place to come back!

Visit to the lazy Malvan :)

I am planner through and through and that's the way I like it. Call it Sonia or a Virgo trait, but that's the way it is! And I am proud of it! My holiday begins from the journey itself, and so I like it comfortable and perfect. But my trip to Tarkarli was just the opposite. And I can't believe I enjoyed every bit of it! Our train tickets of 3AC did not get confirmed. So my journey to Kudal was in a "jugaad" seat which we got from the TC in a sleeper. The 10 hour journey was shared between me and my friend. It was hot, sticky and noisy. The crowd settled only by 2 in the night and I was too drained to think about anything but sleep.

We reached Kudal at about 11 in the morning and straightway headed to Lazy Malvan to hunt for a stay option. Yes, that's what I've decided to call this side of Maharashtra. Its a small dreamy little place perfect to take a break.

We began our 'expedition' to hunt for a stay option and stumbled upon - the Sagar Kinara which literally is next to the sea. Since we had not booked and its the "off" season (March end), we got our room pretty cheap. After a sleep for a few hours, we headed to the sea to explore the beach (which was dirty). As luck would have it, one of the scuba diving instructor approached us on this walk. We striked the deal and headed towards the golden ganesh temple. Here also, I felt God living this very slow lavish style! A beautiful place and a must visit especially during the evening arti time.

The Ganesh temple, made of Gold

We then walked to the rock garden which was absolutely stunning. The waves crash the rocks and roar about what they can do if messed with. Scary and breathtaking!

The beautiful rock garden across the Arabian

The next day, we were all set for our scuba diving. And let me tell you your trip to Tarkarli is incomplete without scuba diving. I was scared to death in the beginning. I think my guide must be cursing his stars because every time I dipped, I would tell him that I don't want to do it. But like many guides, this one was very patient with me. To encourage me, he showed me fish in the sea. And yes, that really worked. I had to go in now. The beauty of the sea cannot be described in words. The area is rich in coral, fish and sea plants. And to be able to see it and feel it was a wonderful feeling.

In the evening, we headed to the pristine Tarkarli beach. This was followed by the Tsunami Island, the Karli Sangam and Bogwe beach. Tsunami Island has lot of water sports but we preferred to enjoy the scenic beauty. The island is full of crabs which run into the sand the moment you start walking.. The place is surrounded by mango plantations, hills and other greens.

At the Tsunami Island

We let go the Dolphin safari and Nevati Beach as we were too lazy! But I've heard these are nice places too. But after the scuba dive, all that didn't matter.

The people at Malvan are very friendly. Being from northern India, they were happy to cook without coconut food for me. What I missed here was "nariyal paani". I guess, people eat rather than drink coconut! Sigh!

Boat trip to the Tsunami Island

How I "did not" plan this trip
1. We took the konkan kanya to Kudal. There are bus options also directly to Malvan or Tarkarli
2. From Kudal, we took a bus to Malvan which Rs. 30. rickshaw ride is around Rs.400-500
3. We stayed a day at Malvan and did our scuba diving, Ganesh temple and rock garden. From Sagar Kinara, we walked to all these places. Its a must walk if you want to "feel" the fish town of Malvan.
4. The following day we head to Tarkarli by an auto (Rs. 150)- enjoyed the beach. We then set off to the Tsunami Island, Karli Sangam and Bogve Beach by aboat which costed us Rs.600- we took an individual boat. It would be less if you share.
5. We returned the day after by a direct Bus from Tarkarli to attend to my work at office. Well, I am happy I am back, TO GO BACK AGAIN!!!!

View from the Tsunami Island

The Great White Rann

It was just one post on FB which prompted me to add Rann of Kutch in 'must visit places for me'. The endlessness of white patch on earth was fascinating and I knew I had to visit! 

As luck would have it, I landed in Gujarat for an official trip which made my travel to Bhuj extremely convenient and slightly easy on my pockets too. I took an overnight bus to Bhuj after shopping in Ahmedabad.

One thing which striked me at Bhuj was the “vibes” of the place. It felt so warm and secured and after staying in Delhi and Mumbai for years together, it was a weirdly nice feeling! 

Cab is a must at Bhuj and we headed to that straightaway.  We struck our deal at the station. 

The Black Mountain

The view of the Rann from the Kalo Dongar is breath-taking! The vast stretch of white from the mountain looks like a ocean. In fact, its impossible to believe it isn't the ocean! I guess that's why the mountain is called “black”. Because against the giant whiteness, anything which exists will look black!

View from The Dongar

There is a small temple at the mountain where meat is given to animals as a tribute. It’s a very small ceremony, but has been going on for a very long time. The story is that of a saint who used to pray at Dongar. But since it’s a very dry area, the animals also did not have enough to eat. Overcome by grief for the animals, the saint cut off his arm for the animal to eat. It is said that since then this tradition has been going on. At times wolves come down to have their served meals by humans.

After this enchanting visit, we drove to our Resort at Dhordo. The 1 and half hour drive had only the long dry barren land. The small villages which we passed had a small habitation of about 20-30 people whose main occupation is selling milk. We wondered where did animals drink water from. Unavailability of water is the main challenge in the area.  Even in a city like Bhuj, water scarcity is very high. People’s income is spent most on the procurement of water for daily sustenance.

We were famished by the time we reached our resort. Since the dinning timings are fixed, we rushed to take our food before time ran out. And it was a very wise decisions. The food here is wow! While eating, I wished my stomach was an endless pack where I could keep putting in food to satisfy my taste buds :P

After a sumptuous meal, we headed to our respective rooms to crash! (Dhordo has a accommodation facility for drivers. Their stay and food is a part of the package. Awesomeness!)

The Great Rann of Kutch

We experienced the magical play of lights against the white space of whiteness. The beauty at that time is just to behold.

                                         

The magical colurs of the Rann

The white ran is just the  dried salt. After walking for a bit, we also saw patches of water. Our driver told us that the area is filled with sea water in monsoon. We were glad to see bits of it!! We returned to our resort completely sated.  

We were welcomed to bajra rotla, baingan sabzi and some other typical gujju dishes which were mouth-watering.  This was followed by a musical night of local folk music. We retired to our beds happily drained.

The next day after breakfast, we headed to the city of Mandvi. On our way we visited the Vijay Palace. It’s a beautiful structure but after visiting the forts in north, it just another structure for me. 

We did not visit the Mandvi beach as it was afternoon time. Our driver then asked us the kind of lunch we preferred. And our obvious option as a typical gujju Thali (we couldn't get enough of it). He took us to this place called Osho hotel. After about 10- 15 minutes waiting, we were asked to share our place with another family. It was awkward in the beginning, but the moment our thalis were placed before us, our focus was to just eat! For Rs. 100, you get unlimited food at Osho hotel. People there love feeding you, so they make you eat till you are on the brink of bursting! The food is just delicious and the people warm. Its a must visit place if you are a veggie foodie!
 

My favourite eatery!

We then visited an extremely boring museum and then to Godhra to visit the Vaishono Devi temple. This temple is made like a micro mini vaishno devi temple. Fun visit!

Visit to the temple

The Kutch is a must place to visit at least once! Remember that the Rann closes down post March. So plan your days accordingly! Drop in a mail if you want the contact of the driver. He was really good! 

How I planned my trip
1. Reached Bhuj and booked a cab for 2 days (mail for details on the cab)
2. Went to the dongar in the afternoon and crashed at Dhordo Resort (check their website)
3. Visited the Rann in the evening
4. Day 2- We covered the morning Rann and a camel ride
5. Enjoyed the Palace, and temples nearby and headed back in the evening

The Jungle, an addiction! Nagzira Wildlife Sanctury

Its 4.30 in the morning and we sit silently at the balcony of our log hut. We hear the dew drops fall. One of the many magical moments for me at Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary.
This thrilling property is right in the middle of the jungle! The nights here are alive with calls of different animals. The leapords are known to frequent this place in late nights. And so on the light outside the room or stepping out of the hut is prohibited.

Afternoon view from our stay place

This magnificent jungle is only 3 hours away from Nagpur. On our safaris we spot the neelgai, numerous deers and missed the leapord just by a few minutes. Our best citing was that of wild dogs eating their prey. While one dog eats, the others keep a watch around. Food is important after all, For all. Period!

The wild dog

Our first cold night at Nagzira was spent in the tents alongside the bonfire. While my friends played cards even in the wee hours of the night, I kept myself busy with the bonfire. 

Tent stay just outside the Sanctury

We clubbed Umred Sanctury too on this trip. Umred is lesser known place to tourists and therefore has a rustic charm to it. But nothing compared to the beauty of Nagzira!

This was one of the most memorable trip for me not only because of the beauty of the jungle, but the amazing people who came along. It was an excellent combination of a doctor, engineer, wildlife photographer and 2 social workers! Phew! And we had a blast!!

Watching.. from the watch tower!

Kashid, Murud, Phansad: Weekend Gateway from Mumbai

The dazzling sea water till huge stretches is what I see when I enter Alibaug beaches, my favourite place to crash when I am on a tight budget and keen to step out! Just 2 and 1/2 hour journey from Mumbai Alibaug has got something for old, young, sporty and the lazy bums like me too. I gatecrash this place when I need to gaze into the endless sea and lose myself into its silence. But this time I am travelling with a few mavericks and it was all action!

We began our journey early morning with the beautiful view of Gateway and the Taj. After a 45 minute ferry ride and another hour's journey from the bus, we reach Alibaug and book a cab for our 2 day trip. My friend Manisha helped a bit in our budget by asking a few people to share our cab. They did! What luck!  

Our first destination was Murud Fort, also know as Janjeera, the short cut for the actual name Jal Jazeera! 

Ruins at Murud Fort

This huge fort is built in the middle of the sea and has withstood the saline waters till date! Its historical value stems from the fact that it has been an undefeated fort. 

I love this huge structure encompassing fresh water lakes (which are now dirty), outlets for cannon bullets, courtyards and ruins gardens which hint on the magnificence which the fort would have had in its heyday. This was the second trip and I am still awed by this place. 

After the bout of history it was time for a dip in the sea! We headed for Kashid, just in time for the beautiful sun set. We took a dip in the late evening and since it was low tide, a swim made the day perfect for us.

The next day we headed for Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary. An unexplored forest area just 3 hours away from Mumbai was a treat to the eyes. The carzy  bullock-cart ride was bumpy but fun! We also discovered that Phansad has basic tent accommodation at a very reasonable price! 

Our ride at Phansad

The icing on the cake for this trip were the water sports at Kashid and my favourite was the para sailing. The view from above is to behold! Other rides like the bumper ride was too bumpy for me to handle and the jet ski was just 'jet ski'. 

After para sailing

I ended my trip very satisfactorily tired and geared for work for the coming Monday.
This might be helpful if you are travelling to Alibaug-
1. A cab to roam in Alibaug  is a good option.
2. Bargain- for everything here.
3. Sea food is the specialty but I loved the veg too.
4.  Water sports are best enjoyed at Nagaon.
5. Murud beach is not as frequented by tourists as Kashid. So head for this beach for the quite.
6. Phansad is a good stay option just 6 km from Kashid. Prior bookings are required though. 

Mumbai Weekend Gateway: HideOut

"Humans don't need as much water! Have you ever seen animals drinking so much water as us?" Hemant, who runs "Hide Out" has his own way of seeing and understanding life.
I made a trip to "Hide Out" a few days back with my Reiki Group. I was in silence (no mobile/laptop, etc and no talking) for 3 days so I could not gather much "information" about this place. I write this post about the little information I could get.

True to its name, this farm is impossible to figure if you have not asked for directions beforehand.(Check their website for details or call them). It is nestled between Mumbai Ahmedabad Highway. Hemant, the owner, has been living here for the past 25 years and earns his living through farming and payments made by guests for their stay at "Hide Out".

The rooms
The rooms at Hide Out are HUGE and have open windows. And that's the charm of the place! At night, we were visited by cats and crickets in our room. Don't you guys worry now! They have nets around the bed. So we humans are safe in our respective cocoons. The bathroom is frequented by frogs as these guys just love the wet!

The name of my room

By the end of the trip, the cats made themselves cozy next to me on my bed. Crickets, spiders and ants became our friends. I look back and wonder how I did that! Never experienced so much wilderness ever! They also have open air beds. One can gaze at the starts and sleep off!

The Food
One can enjoy the amazing flavours of organic food here. They don't serve non vegetarian. But I am sure after tasting there veg, non veg does not stand a chance anyway! They grow their own organic food. And there are strict instructions to not waste khana!

The way to common area/dinning hall

Our breakfast began with herbal tea and fruits, followed by sumptuous idili or poha with milk tea. The lunch had a variety of vegetables along with rice, dal and chappatis. The chappatis either ragi, or jowar, never wheat!

The People
Hemant runs the farm and is very friendly. He was our host and our guide around the place.

I believe I enjoyed the place because I was in silence. I could hear the swish of the trees, the movement of animals around me. It is all contained in me with my silence.

The places to see
One can never get enough of nature! There is the farm to see here, the people at work, a dam, and a waterfall. You can see nature unfold here.



The Cost
It is expensive. But then, any price is no price to experience nature!

Things to remember
1. Visit the place if you are  a nature lover through and through.
2. Do not expect a 5 star luxurious treatment. We washed our own dishes here.
3. Good shoes and a camera is a must.
4. Good to carry a mosquito repellent.

Saguna Baug: Weekend Gateway from Mumbai

I was in luck last weekend when my friend invited me to visit the Saguna Baug with him! My finances are at an all-time low, and yet I was itching to travel “somewhere” and this weekend gateway seemed like the right option.

I was sceptical at first as the place should ideally be visited in the monsoons. But like I said, anything is better than sitting at home.

The moment I stepped into their compound, I knew I had made the right decision. Established in the middle of a small ‘village like city’, Saguna Baug has rural charm with modern facilities. They have stay facilities, of different kinds and numerous activities. You can visit them for a day too! That’s what I did!

One of the stay options. My next trip here will be with 2-3 day stay

We began by a guided tour of the place. I was amazed by the variety of trees and plants which the place flaunts. They mostly grow rice and onions there according to the nature of soil. But they also have a beautiful area of flowers like red roses. Small ponds which flaunt beautiful lotuses after a few meters itself. Even though we roamed under the harsh sunlight, the air was refreshingly cool. 

Banana Tree: Photo courtesy Anil. Parmar

My friend and I decided to skip the guided tour midway the moment we discovered this! We could not resist taking nap! I realised that nothing beats sleeping under a tree near a resting river!

My favourite thing apart from travel. Photo Courtesy: Anil. P

Well, we decided to follow our group again after sometime, and we discover that they are enjoying catching fish. Saguna Baug is well known for fish rearing, and local boys dive in the ponds to catch these. This is an activity itself. I respect all foods, however, I was completely grossed out by this. Somehow the sight ghastly feel to this. No pictures here guys! Individual fishing rods are also provided if asked for.

                                                                

Archery: One of the many activities

The best part of the activity is the dip in the Ulhas River which flows right through this compound. We could see the water bed the moment we approached the sight. I could not have imagined a free flowing clean river just 2 hours away from Mumbai. We swam in the river, floated and collected stones. Splashed!

The clear water bed of Ulhas River. Photo courtesy: Anil P

We head off for the need of survival- Food! The food is prepared by local villagers and delicious is not the word for it! The service is by young men who are very eager to serve you. My friend said, “They are so good because they are young! They work with zeal.” We ate till we could not even get up from our seats! We were too engrossed in food to think of clicking. So no pictures here. But the rajma, dal, rice, roti, salad, chaas, sweeets, palak sabzi were irrestible after the Ulhas dip. We though we might just sleep of the afternoon, but headed for the river yet again. 

Enjoying the cool feel. Photo Courtesy: Anil. P

How to reach Saguna Baug

I took a train to Karjat (S) from Thane (T).

We get off at Neral

We take a rickshaw from Neral to Saguna Baug.

Things to keep in mind while you travel to this part

  -          For Saguna Baug, the amount includes food and tea. The food is really good

  -          Neral is crowded on  weekends as a number of weekend gateways are through this station. No worried here as it is just  the family crowd

  -          Rs. 100 is the cost of the individual rickshaw to Saguna Baug

  -          Keep a change of clothes

Top three things I loved about Saguna Baug

1. Ease of reach

        2.The Ulhas River

        3. Reasonably priced

Check about other weekend gateways on this link

 http://chaikitapridiaries.blogspot.in/2013/08/kundalika-water-rafting-and-tamhini.html

Kundalika Water Rafting and Tamhini Ghats

We are known for planning at the end and making it work! The magic is created by my friends whom I accompany every time. This time we planned rafting at Kundalika followed by a drive to Tamhini. After chit chatting till 3 in the morning, we are set in the morning 5 for our drive. We hire a cab from Thane and set off to a drive of about 3 hours through lush green fields, hills and clouds.

The drive is to Kolad which is a small village nestled between the western ghats. There are numerous operators for rafting, but during monsoons it’s good to have a pre booking done. 

Kundalika. Photo courtesy: SJ

River water rafting at Kundalika is early mornings and evenings when the water is released from the dam. The gush of the water makes it an apt place for rafting. The guides brief us on safety and security during rafting. After the 45 minutes talk we are allowed to jump into our rafts! Our guides welcome us onboard with a splash of water shouting “good morning”. Well dude! What a morning indeed. The good morning game is one of the numerous games we play along the way which continues till the end! The guides are friendly and have war cries ready for “waring” the raft. It is just wow!

Photo courtesy: One of our guides

The Johnyy Walker  and Laughing Buddha just shake us off from our lazy bones . The 12km stretch is marked by small and big rapids, fun filled fames by our guides and lush green fields and hills. The rafting experience ends with an area where you can swim in the water, just laze around. We floated on water watching the clouds go by.

River water rafting is fun for all ages. The guides sometimes have a dry bag for you to keep your valuables. Or else, you can also ask your driver to stock your things for you! For bookings to Kundalika river water rafting, you can book directly with an agent- that’s what we did! Or google up other contacts online!

Rafting has to be followed by sumptuous lunch. We had carried our dabba and just delved into it. 

Fun time after rafting. Photo courtesy: SJ

We then head towards the Tamhini Ghats which is on the way to Pune. The ghats have waterfalls at almost every turn and are they gorgeous. One can see nature at its purest form here with deep ghats on one end and the falls on the other. After a drive for about ½ hour we run to the nearest waterfall. We were lucky to get a waterfall which had a huge rock crafted like a seat right under the water flow. The icy cold water hit us and we divulged in ecstasy.  Amidst nature all one can do was to surrendered to the speed and flow there, to feel the bliss.

After about an hour at the fall and lot of photography we headed back to our car. Another lovely weekend comes to an end. It’s a must visit during monsoons!

Dint want to get out this water fall. Photo courtesy: SJ

Just a few basics:

1. Kundalika and Tamhini Ghats are around 180 km from Mumbai

2. Its best to go in a group and hire a cab- saves time and efforts

3. Carrying your own lunch/ snacks is preferred. (you never know about hygiene levels in monsoons)

The Jungle an Addiction: Tadoba Wildlife Reserve

Green Rustic Exciting TADOBA

This is what I felt when I first entered “The Real Land of Tigers” as the gate at Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) describes it.  About 180 kms from Nagpur via Chandrapur, this wildlife sanctuary is a well known reserve for tigers and other wildlife species.

On this trip to Tadoba in the monsoon, I was accompanied by Shalik and Manisha. The journey from Nagpur to Mohurli was marked by flooded fields and broken bridges and Shalik’s tales of the jungle. When he accidentally spotted a tiger; when sometimes his instincts would push him in the direction of the royal animal or when he saw wild dogs going for a kill of Sambar fawn.  Exciting!

After a four hour drive, we checked in at the MTDC hotel which is easy on the pocket with decent rooms. A pre- booking for safari and hotel is a must.

The next day, we were the first ones to enter the park. The jungle as always is beautiful. It is lush, alive and bright. We were greeted by thick vegetation and trees on both sides of the road and the cold fresh breeze. Manisha christened the little streams on the road as “baithe hue jharne” or sitting streams. We remembered the owlets who greeted us at a particular tree at Kanha National Park. And I longed to see owlets even here (which I happened to see the same night just outside our room).

Bison.Pic by Manisha.G

Being in the jungle gives me sense of freedom. I taste it when I stand on the jeep and feel the breeze across my face. At that moment there is no office or nagging colleagues; worried parents or a tensed me to pay rent. When I am in the jungle, I just am. Nothing exists before or after. It’s just is.

On our safaris we saw numerous birds and animals. A beautiful huge eagle welcomed us on almost all our safaris. The ‘Stork-billed Kingfisher’ greeted us thereafter. We were told it is a difficult site but well, as luck would have it, we caught it on camera FIVE TIMES on that day!

Picture by Shalik Jogwe

I wondered if it was for real, the jungle, rustle of the leaves, chirping birds and insects. It is so amazing that such beauty exists. We spotted a mongoose crossing the road and soon after a number of peahens. Manisha prayed to see a peacock and we saw one that day. She then prayed for a dancing peacock. But hello! When do all prayers get fulfilled! The treat of the day was the bunch of wild dogs we saw in the evening. 

Wild Dogs. Pic by Manisha.G

Villagers in Melghat call the wild dogs the real king of the jungle; a thought fiercely challenged by Shalik- a royal tiger lover.

During one of our safaris, the sky poured its heart out to us. The jeep splashed the water on us driving through the “baithe hua jarne”. We shivered against the wind and water. We got drenched. We just loved it. 

Even though Tadoba is known as the land of roaring tigers, we didn't spot any on this trip. But no regrets as the beauty of the jungle made up for it. Tadoba is rustic and beautiful. The villagers here have been employed as guides or drivers for the safaris. If you know the right people, you may be welcomed for homestays where you can experience the simple life of the village. We had the opportunity to visit Ganesh’s house, who was our driver.

We visited Tadoba to visit again. To organize your trip to Tadoba Wildlife Reserve get in touch with Shalik Jogwe, who organized this trip for us. His email is tadobatiger@gmail.com.

The Jungle an Addiction: Kanha Wildlife Sanctuary

It is said that Rudyard Kipling wrote the jungle book inspired by the beauty of Kanha. After reading the book and visiting Kanha myself, I felt that the beauty and serenity of the jungle can never be captured in words. Visit the jungle once and it becomes a part of ones existence. For me it is becoming an addiction.

On this trip, I was accompanied by Manisha. We would get up as early as 4.30 a.m. to be ready for the early morning safari.. Once out of bed, our first words would be, “will we get to see Munna today? And the other would respond with an affirmative “of course”. 

Munna is  a gorgeous tiger at Kanha famous for giving some amazing photography poses!

Kanha ka Munna:Pic by Shalik.J

The Kanha jungle is thick with sal trees, grass and bamboo. Some areas are also marked by meadows. Each and every road at Kanha has a story to it. Each and every part of the jungle is striking.

We saw numerous beautiful birds. by our third safari, we knew where they nested and caught them there almost on each each safari. We saw the knew we would find a kingfisher bird on a particular tree, the owlet on a banyan tree.

Owlet: Pic by Manisha.G

And yet each and every safari felt new. There were times when we would sit very quietly so the deer would be near our jeep or the egret would not fly away. 

The picturesque Kanha has numerous stories of tigers. It is a tiger reserve. But beyond the tiger reserve, the jungle itself is beautiful even in the harsh summer. There are water holes for animals at spots, the fire line to prevent fire. We are not allowed to get down from the jeep. They forest department tries to keep it “human free” as much as possible.

Like I said before, the jungle is known for its tigers. Each and every guide and driver is tuned to listen to the “calls”. That’s the way birds and animals communicate to be safe,, They make calls i.e a particular noise to communicate danger or to call for mating.

Manisha and I wondered what if human life was like the animals- eat, sleep and mate!! :P Our driver told us that it is not that simple for animals, including the tiger. Hunting for food, or protecting oneself from danger is a work for animals. The jungle has its own rules and animals follow a simple rule. “you don’t mess with me, and I won’t with you”.

One of our guide said” the jungle is the territory of animals. And no human should ever forget that” if he/she has to survive here.” 

Shit

It is said that the character of a person can be judged by his shoes.. after an year’s experience of visiting various villages across the country, I believe the character of a village/city can be judged by its sanitation facilities.  Sanitation across villages in India is extremely poor. We still have millions of people who do not use toilets… where the narrow lanes are filled with garbage..  and all this leading to increased diseases. This is not to say that urban India is any better… I sometimes feel urban India is worse off. We have so many educated people littering the streets and the blaming the government. It brings me back to the question that where do we stand after more than 60 years of independence… the experience which I share today, were shared by Gandhi years before…  and we still have the balls to say that we are “developing” nation…  on the verge of development, when people here are yet to work on their shitting habits. ..

so much to do

There is so much to do and such little time.. its just been a month and I have visited a 6-7 villages across India.. it seems like a different world… a different reality..

Sometimes I felt that India was like the places I k now off.. yes ive studies.. read about illiteracy.. ive read about health issues.. subjugation women.. and so many more things… but seeing it happen in front of my own eyes… it just did not feel real..

People still believe that malaria is cured by putting egg in ears.. that its disrespectful to speak before elders..  that vaccination of infants is of no importance.. that its not important to make a girl study.. .

Most these people whom I met there do not dream.. that is what there is life is all about..  they do not want their kids to go through this.. but they feel they have no option..thats what life is for them..

Its been 60 years we’ve been independent.. our country has been through ups and downs.. .the governments time and again have come up with schemes etc..  but where has all of it gone.. why is it that people still are uneducated.. that infants still die because the mother does not know the value of nutritious diet.. why is it that in schools children are still malnourished and the family doesn’t even know about it.. why is it that I see so much scope of things to be done.. to achieve.. to work for.. and others just crib about having a country with no facilities..

Food.. education.. health.. are basics of ‘life’.. only life.. we don’t even that with us today..

Inheritance and the series

And Eragon is told that most of the battles are won by mental strength and not physical strength alone. So he learns to calm his mind to make himself stronger. He already knows hez physically fit. And is it not what we also require in our daily lives to fight our daily battles. It is said just think positive and things would fall into place. And yep.. it is so true.. Roran.. Eragon’s brother manages to defeat the a soldier without his wards, or magic... it wasn’t cheer luck.. he was driven by the fact that he had to save his wife and the unborn baby.

The book portrays Earagon and his like as very powerful, but alas, they are nothing if they are not supported by others. Earagon’s strength is his own and yet is’nt. He wins the battle but with the support of an army of lakh of men, the wisdom and power of other races, the animals…. He cannot attribute his victory to himself alone.

There are so many other things that the book speaks about…. listening and respecting others. Be it animals, or humans, or a different group altogether. It talks about growing on the wisdom old, not cling to them but share there experience for a better future. Change is inevitable, but one can make it more fruitful by drawing from there wisdom…

I was able to relate to each and every aspect of the book to my own life.. and the ones around me… I wonder… how people call it young fiction!

My final Exam

"Stop writing your exam in the mobile light! Its a final exam for Gods sake..."
The invigilators shouted.... scolded but to no avail....
And why the hell should we have listened... there was no freaking light!!Ha Ha!!!

This is how we gave one of our papers.. final exam!! A big joke!!!
I shouted to Trupti.. on one end.. and divya was calling me from another.. Rinu helped me with my points of an answer.. i'd forgotton a few.... It was crazy Fun.. Ramu kaka missed it!!

After half an hour of time Pass, we got huge torches to write our papers.... but our work was already done in the dark... even the invigilators laughed at the whole thing.. I mean... this incident has completely changed the definition of the final Exam!! Especially in this College....

My classmates would understand what I am talking abt..
Guys i want ur vaulable comments!!!

Water Kingdom

From the Black Demon to.. Water Coaster.. Raffia Fafia..Amazon Adevnture …. Rain Dance .. we 3 freaked out at Water Kingdom…..it was one of the most memorable trips wid my frends…. and and.. it was not because of Water Kingdom.. or the slides.. or the tolerable crowds… but it was because we 3.. and only 3 of us were together!! At last.. after all the restrictions from office.. religious… personal.. we 3.. at last were together…… hahahhahhahahhahah.. and we made d most of it!! Our trip began with changing clothes.. (just near office)…. We wanted to look nice after all for our trip… then there were deliberations on the mode of transport…… starting from train to bus… we zeroed down to the rickshaw…. The rick guy was super dumb.. didn’t know the way.. but at last we did reach the Gorai creek and after a short breakfast we headed towards the raft… the journey to the raft was full of fish stink… and the at the raft, we didn’t get a place together to sit… terrible..
After a 2 hour journey.. from changing clothes.. to the rick.. breakfast and the raft.. we went entered the ticket counter of the Water Kingdom!! At last!!!
but still there was a long way to reach the WATER… There were Qs for the tickets, lockers, costumes.. piss…. But but.. we fought through all odds…and.. we saw WATER….at last.. after about an hour in the vicinity.. we enetered the pools… It was just and just water all around.. and it was beautiful… we went to the wave pool 1st .. .. and I swam…… after ages… I felt… ALIVE..

Wcompletely forgot everything…. There was no office.. or mom dad…. Or work… We irritated each other…. Fooled around…. And tried to keep a vigil.. (u know how men get)

GUYS.. dey behaved as if they had never seen women in water.. seriously al u guyz.. wen u stare.. girls only feel like.. just imagine the worst thing possible and that’s exactly wat we wanna do to u....
And And And.. we came across super ***** couples… who were in serious need of a bed.. and we wondered why they choose water full of people..
We went on to the slides… and I shouted… LYK AN ASS.. I SHOUTED.. I have never ever done slides.. or rides.. im super scared of dem.. but these ppl encouraged.. and I went.. it was awesome… the scariest slide was water coaster.. in which I felt I’ll never be able to see my office… house.. mom..dad.. I almost got a heart attack.. and the dullest was “Lazy River” where I shouted at guys who were fooling around.. and my shouting had no effect…
We danced like mad at the rain dance.. we lost ourselves dere… in fact we got senti.. and Paru said.. “Thank God no1 else is dere” Paru thanked us like a 1000 times.. dunno why.. but we luv u Paru.. muah…

I think we made a different kinda bond on this trip.. the 3 of us… it was like we were destined to be together.. coz no1 else agreed to come..its a memory..itched in our minds forever!
Evening came.. and again we danced to the songs by some wierdos… apparently Water Kingddom completed 12 years that day.. and there was a concert… we danced to stupid songs at the wave pool…
Nitha called to leave.. and we made long faces.. and she joined us…. We spent about half an hour.. .. with the practical mind telling us to go and heart telling us not to leave.. we choose the mid way.. we spent some more time.. and then quietly ,left…. We dance dour way back to the changing rooms.. content…

Trip to elephanta

My trip to elephant began with me being late by almost 2 hours and still getting a treat of double bun maska from Anilu.. Lemme introduce u to Anilu.. hez bin my chuddybuddy since my MSW years…hez a hard core social worker wid sum weird ass philosophies which r understood only by him!!! And yet.. yet…. I had loads of fun!! Ha ha
We bought tickets to ferry ride to the caves…ferry ride was super fun!! We talked about college… and our group…how things change suddenly…. How we all wud be married one fine day (sigh) .. We saw…SUPER HUGE ships… real big.. and real beautiful!! And we noticed that people carrying the most bags were gujjuz ;)
On reaching there, we treated ourselves with kairi..which was yummy!! And then took the mini train… now train ride was almost like a local train ride wid people, pushing and jostling just to get a seat on dat stupid train… we missed one train, and den we got on the next one where in I didn’t get a seat again.. so we were making plans for me to sit on Aniluz bag, but an uncleji got up 4 me and I sat comfortable.. There are advantages of being a woman after all!!
We made our way to the caves through some 200-300 stairs wherein vendors sell beautiful jewellery. bags.. marble carvings.. wood carvings..posters.. post cards, guide maps etc… its beautiful to just look at… they r pretty expensive… I mean u get cheaper..same stuff at Colaba..bandra.. we took frequent breaks though.. we were sipping at nimbu paani..water….. and climbing where no1 went!! Haha… anilu was happily checking out firangi women… !! Oh and guys!! I bought a hat.. My bestest, the most beautiful HATS!!!

At last .. we did reach the caves… beautiful and majestic… the carvings were so big and huge.. there were a few shivaling temples surrounded by the huge carvings of Shiva Parvathi.. brahma….. actually a site museum has been established there to familiarize the tourists with the carvings… the interesting part is that the museum is completely in English. There were people who wanted to know wats it all abt, but language became a barrier. However, the museum explains that sculptures, the different forms of Shiva and Parvathi and speaks of the ancient Legends…..
We roamed from one cave to the other, climbed rocks, saw weird ass water tanks.. I wonder why.. for what purpose were these made…I mean, if it was just for love for architecture, its just beautiful… Its very exciting and adventurous for me to visit places 1000 years old… I wonder how they must.. how they must have travelled from land to these caves… who must b dose artists… hats off to them…
I bugged Anilu to click pictures at every juncture!! I guess I super bugd him!! Since it was a Sunday it was crowded, and we also had a hard time clicking the God.. everybody wanted to click him since he was the centre of attraction, but wen we didn’t get the opportunity, we started clicking each other! In the structures, we saw peple.. couples… sitting.. lazing… and the Bag Vala aunties were out wid d dabbas!! Oh, and yes.. there were a few monkeys.. being referred to as “hanuman”.. I mean.. luk at d respect dere!!
The journey back was.. tiring.. sleeping.. both of us were sloshed by the time we sat in the ferry.. and half slept…
I found Elephanta caves to be very exciting.. romantic place.. I would luv to go there again in the rains!! Guyz.. you are welcome to accompany..
(check out more pics on my orkut profile )

ALUM

All those who travel in buses and trains..will understand the trauma of stinky travelers…its lyk varied stinks packed in a compartment..getting into your head…… or sometimes you may have bosses.. or friends.. or cousins.. who stink.. of course.. its so natural.. but then.. no one like to stink right!!!
Sorry guyz for a stinky start.. but this blog is 4 all those stink or who know ppl who stink.. there is this stone called “Alum”… its an anti bacterial stone.. rub it up ur underarms after bath and u wouldn’t stink!! And.. and.. and.. the price varies from 7-12Buks!!!
Guyz.. it really works.. I just wonder why is it that so many of us don’t know about it at all… apparently it was used as a hair removal agent and fairness agent as well… its easily available in Chemist shops….
P.S. Trupti.. we could suggest it to Stinky Poo!!
The credit for sharing this information goes to my Nangu….. Thankuzzz….

The luvs of my life!

My office… is lively only because of my 2 soulmates.. Nitha and Pari….
Guys!! Lemmme introduce you… Pari has been my junior in my college… and we were together in the hostel too…. And Nitha… is… our office BPO.. my life in my office would have been… aaa… well.. let me not say the truth.. I don’t want my appraisal stopped….. my lifewould have been.. like.. not as much fun!!
This blog is dedicated to the 2 loves of my life.. nangu and paru….my life without them would have been dull and boring.. of course.. their introduction
Paru is… Paru.. she is indescribable… if any such world exists… therez no one like paru and dere wudnt be any EVER.. everybody who knows her can vouch for this… Paru can say anything .. to anyone…..and very innocentky.. and she can make the other person piss in their pants too… shez our cutie pie!! Paru has this distinguished ability to crack jokes which have no meaning and which are not funny! However.. afew month sdown the line, wen u hear the same joke.. guys!!!! U wud lyk your head off!!! Paru is the biggest nautanki ever..and Nitha always falls for it….
Yep.. cuming to Nitha.. Nitha is our mumma…. I mean.. my parents are far.. but nitha around…. Therez no tension…. She doesn’t let me drink.. smoke.. go out alone…(Viralz gt a partner) she guides me… she questions me.. .. she explains me… she tells me what 2 say to my boss coz I suk at words.. shez saved my ass a 1000 times… our stepmother has failed to break us apart.. and I know she always would fail!!! Nangu is my mirror…HOWEVER…. Nitha is our BPO.. she is excellent in planning.. I mean.. in past few months that I know about her..we have made thousands plans together out of which only 1 has worked till now!!!! IMAGINEZ .. only one… and we don’t give up… we still go on.. planning.. delhi.. goa… alibaug….kerela… plan karne mein kya jaata hai…..Alka sayz… she gets scared wen we 3 r together!! Hehehehe.. coz we are shaitaan ka pitaara wen together!!!! HAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHHA………………………………
Paru and Nangu… I luv u both soososoosoososoos much!!!! MUAH.. I DECLARE MY LOVE IN PUBLIC!!!!!!!!!! :)

............education...??!!??!!??!!??!!??!!

I have had almost 18 years of education.. and in the past 5 years of my education I have learnt that degrees are important only to get jobs.. and you ought to learn new things again in the .. the 1st year of job becomes like a course in itself….
My present course suks bigtime…. Barring a few subjects and professors, therez nothing in it.. absolutely nothing.. .. imagine a course, where there are no discussions, arguments…there are only dictats.. and you got to believe them or be on your way…… well… in a way there is nothing new in that. Our educational system is highly undemocratic I guess! And something unique especially about this course is that most of profs are frustrated here!?!?! And have this amazing talent of transferring their frustration to the kiddos!
But.. and there is a big but (one of profs pet dialogues).. I have made amazing frends here!! Extremely talented…brainy.. practical people who could have taught us much better than the profs! And when you have profs suking your blood.. your frends are always there to cheer u up!! Having food in the class.. or going late for exams.. and not meeting the deadlines ever!! And was it not fun!!
Well… I’ll end by saying that courses r lyk dese are gud for time pass, if you gt money.. or if you need a job. I mean.. we all surely are better than d ppl teaching dere!!!
Comments ppl??!!??!!??

Younglings of the world unite.. you have nothing to lose but your chains

The ‘young’ generation faces a ‘crisis’ every generation! And if you are thinking its something to do with our parents, then your are bang on target… I am here to talk on attending BORING adults parties by us…

WHY!?! Generations after generations we are tortured into attending parties organized by our aunts and uncles. The fact that we all have parents, we all understand that we have to do this come what may. As kids, we attend mutely, and when we grow, we have a row and then attend. The fact remains; one cannot fight the ego of a parent. “oh but its not ego, we want you to be aware of how a party is organized, and to know new people, to know what your peers are into” is the usual response .But lo! We would be parents one day and we would be attending them anyway! Big deal! Now, do our parents take us to the dance parties? Or the ball dances? The answer is NO. What is supposed to be known and not supposed to be known is also monitored. (Whoever said we are a free country/world/universe).

Since I have been through the torture myself, and here I am sure I am voicing your opinion as well, universally, the topic of discussions is always the same. Beginning with the attire(with women) going on to the kiddos results, diets, TV as a nuisance(even though most parents use it as a way to buy some time off kids) going on to the blah blah blah…And the children are just there, because …. Well, because they are supposed to be there. I feel sometimes, there is this eternal desire to “show off “their kids... how smart my kid is in so and so subject, and what he replied to the "blah" I said...and Kid, if you don’t match… there is a lecture(long one) waiting 4 u at home.

What is the point of all this? Now if our parents feel that they are giving us the opportunity to see ‘new’ things, then we all know we can prove them wrong. If its about knowing what others are doing, then we don’t care. Heck, we don’t know what we are doing!! If its showing off, then common, that can be done orkut/ facebook! Hun!! So friends… I rest my case here. Younglings of the world unite.. you have nothing to lose but your chains.. and Moms and Dads of the world, take a chill pill and let your children be!