Venus- The planet of love

Twidlng my thumb!

2011-08-09T14:29:00.000+05:30

I have recently joined work (after a gap of a year) with one of the globes largest Advertising Networks. While the excitement around a large name leaves many nodding in approval least would they know that I am struggling to get my basic life organised in my office. So one of these frustrating day's I ended up scribbling reflections of my mind. :)

Many recommended that I should pitch to BMC, perhaps they can do with a imagery of the obvious! :)

Daughters : A Story of Five Generations (by Bharati Roy)

2011-04-05T11:41:00.000+05:30

About the Book :
A chronicle of the lives of five generations of women in the author’s family, this fascinating story spans over a hundred years in its narrative sweep, from the late nineteenth century to the early years of the twenty-first. It mirrors and critiques the progress of a nation, its society and its women, seamlessly blending biography with social history.
Sundar-ma, Bharati Ray’s great-grandmother, was married into a conservative household at twelve. Self-educated, because formal education was out of her reach, she was an intelligent, deeply thoughtful woman who witnessed some of the most tumultuous times in India’s history and actively participated in India’s freedom struggle. Ushabala, the author’s grandmother, was the proud wife of a college lecturer and a consummate home-maker, while Kalyani, Bharati Ray’s Ma, was the first woman in the family to get a college degree, but gave up her studies and a career to raise her children. Ma is lovingly described as feisty and irrepressible, a keen traveller and always ready for adventure. Kalyani’s academic successes heralded the author’s own remarkable achievements, first as lecturer in Calcutta University, then as its first woman pro-vice-chancellor and later as a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha. Bharati Ray’s daughters, Khuku and Tista, both extremely bright, lead busy, fulfilling lives as academics.

About the Author :
Bharati Ray, historian and educationist, taught history at Calcutta University and was its pro-vice-chancellor from 1988 to 1995. She founded the Women’s Studies Research Centre at the university and is currently vice president of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations.
She writes in Bengali as well as English and has numerous books to her credit. Bharati Ray was a Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, from 1996 to 2003 and a member of the Joint Parliamentary Committee on the Empowerment of Women. She is president of the Children’s Little Theatre in Kolkata.

So looking forward to read through this book. Will post my review soon.

Instant splurge on 'Maati'.....Thank you 'Once Upon A Tea Time'!

2011-03-01T17:01:00.000+05:30

Woke up this morning quiet miffed & muddled at the mundane routine of playing mother, wife and God knows what else.

The day began with on a ‘not so happy note' with my husband over my toddler followed by unnecessary banter over regular daily fusses. This was post my morning cup of chai (thank God), got lil boy ready for school and then felt miserable that I have changed so much as a human being...sulk...sulk...sulk! Just while I did manage to bring down my daily pace to a near zero on the meter gauge this post by 'Once Upon A Tea Time' brought by a ray of hope.

Sulk bubble 1 burst when I read that this beautiful shop called Maati (meaning Earth stands for the essence of nature and earth that’s imbibed into all handmade crafts in India) Crafts was only about 100 meters from my home (that's a big high for anyone remotely aware of Mumbai n distances)! So next thing was a quick shower and post my breakfast I was in my car driving to Maati...

Sulk bubble 2 burst the moment I stepped into the store. Greeted by dokra metal craft (I am very fond of this craft) from Madhya Pradesh (most popular in this n neighbouring states like Jharkahnd), textiles from Rajasthan, Kutch, Chennai and clay pottery as well! Yippie...all under one roof and so close to home! By now I was feeling partially rejuvenated but completely unsure of how much will I buy! There were beautiful ceramic magnets in the form of colorful butterflies and bugs. Little artifacts like sheep, turtles, Giraffe's (cutest of the lot) and elephants all in clay glazed ceramic finish; some amazing kurti's and sareer's; Flower pots, dinner/heat and serve ware, teapots n cups; bedspread, silk cushion covers, material.... WOW!!!!

Fresh daisies

Claypot, the kind I like!

Sulk bubble 3 burst when I picked up a couple of flower vases, a beautiful ceramic aroma decanter and a vegetable die bedspread for the house. On my way back I picked up some flowers (rajanigandha/tube rose, a stalk of red glad and some white daisies) all set to get the house ready for my beloved husband...a kind of mid week surprise...stuff I'd love doing when I was just a few years younger!!! :D

Displayed at another angle. This time with the aroma decanter.

The second vase for my Budha corner.

Well...expensive way to burst the sulk bubbles but hey, ian't that the way most women feel good?

Once upon a tea time, you just made my sulk day into a memorable one. Thank you!

Signing off feeling 'not as miffed' anymore!!!

Reaching out!

2011-02-22T09:40:00.000+05:30

February Love- Part 1

2011-02-02T15:41:00.000+05:30

Come February and the atmosphere all around suggests oodles of cuddles, lots of candlelight dinners and just pure romancing idea's!

I guess it's got to do with the crazy amount of marketing that's gone into making a 'Valentines Day' what it is in a country like that of mine where till date there are violent demonstration by political parties over the concept of PDA (Public Display of Affection)! So while we juggle between the violence of political play and apt responses from social bodies like The Consortium of Pubgoing, Loose, and Forward Women who introduced the 'Pink Chaddi campaign'; I seem to fall prey to a barrage of romantic movies which can keep playing in a loop...

Here's a list of a few that tops my chart this season. :)

Sound of Music:

First up on my list is 'Sound of Music'. Possibly my first ever encounter with love as an emotion in motion picture!

"The hills are alive with the sound of music with songs they have sung for a thousand years..." sings Maria drowning the audience into captivating Alp's and wins not just the love of Captain Von Trapp but the world for decades on. No wonder the movie bagged the 38th Oscar's.

What can one say about a legend.

I began relating to the film with songs like 'Do re me...', 'raindrops on roses', 'The Lonely Goatherd' when I was 6

Moved onto feeling smitten with 'I am 16' when I was a teenager

And to the now when I am 32 I just cant stop being amazed at the intense portrayal of romance between Julie Andrew's and Captain Von Trapp.

An ever green film and I am sure I'll continue to love it beyond my grave!!!

You've Got Mail:

Next up on my list is the 1998 Nora Ephron's 'You've Got Mail'.

"I turn on my computer, I go online and my breath catches in my chest until I hear 3 lil words.................... 'you've got mail'..."!

Two business rivals who hate each other at the office but fall in love over the internet.

Hmmm...sigh...Can rattle out every dialogue in the film like how a 5 year old would with a Jungle Book!!!

Some stuff that I recall the moment I think of this movie:

Film Trailer

'What will NY152 say today I wonder?'

Original video of 'Dream' by The Cranberries

@the Supermarket
Twirling
Kevin; this woman is the most incredible creature I have ever know!
Thank you for the daisies!
Blue birds fly: Finally meeting at the garden.

My stomach still churns (so much of blush) every time I hear Tom Hank's say 'Dont cry Shopgirl'!!!

Of course one can't forget:
Notting Hill
Pretty Woman
Sweet November
Music & Lyric

What a sucker for romance! :P

Keep watching this space for more...

Remembering Smt Rukmini Devi Arundale / Founder Kalakshetra

2011-01-11T15:44:00.000+05:30

My chocolate Santa's gifted me an oven!!!

2010-12-09T10:48:00.000+05:30

Always wanted to own a decently large oven and finally my sweet heart obliged and bought it for me today as a pre-Christmas gift. So finally I own a 40litre Morphy Richards oven and I just cant wait to bring in all the celebrations around the next few weeks.

I am so looking forward to some 'Happy Baking' times!

8 important ornamets for Christmas and it's significance

2010-12-07T15:48:00.000+05:30

Well, it is that time of the year when we celebrate the most loving team of the year...Christmas!!! I have always wondered the significance of use of ornaments on the tree and was delighted to chance upon the reasons.

Holly leaves symbolises Jesus crown of thorns and the red berries is his blood. According to the Roman culture, Holly symbolises the Sun God, Saturn, which keeps the Holly leaves fresh even during winters.

I love the way they smell...

Angel depicts the birth story of Baby Jesus and the Legend in which the angle plays a very important role in the birth of Jesus Christ. Angle had heralded the birth of Christ. Angel is often placed on the Christmas tree.

A tree without the shining angels looks so incomplete!

Star is the symbol of the guiding star which took the magi to the birth place of Jesus Christ.

Fir Tree is the second colour of Christmas and symbolises the omnipresent light and life. The needle of the fir leaves points at heaven.

Bells are to guide for the lost sheep to get back to the herb. This symbolises that for Jesus everyone is equal and he wants to guide all his children to the right path.

The light of candle is the symbol of the starlight which guided the magi to the birth place of Jesus Christ.

Christmas gifts are always tied into a bow and represent the strong bond among people.

Mistletoe symbolises peace and joy and also ensures a good next year. It is also believes that if a couple stands under the Mistletoe, they are supposed to kiss, to bring good luck to their relationship.

Of course, to top this if we have a beautiful chimney as part of the decor Santa sure feels easier to get! :) Ho Ho Ho.....Merry Christmas!!!!

Bloggers who inspire me...

2010-11-25T09:57:00.001+05:30

Almost 7 months into active blogging I am now a big fan of a few extremely talented blogger. I thought that writing a small post on them is the best way to extend my appreciation towards their work.

Aesthetically written articles (home or artifacts or spaces or personal grooming) seems to be my foremost topic of interest and who else can but make an impact other than Kamini from Once upon a tea time as well as Frangipani Decor

My fatigue buster blogs are Deezden, A cup of chai, Art n Light, Habitually chic, Amitpatty, Matsya and so many others that keep me company through the days.

When it comes to food everyone of the blogs is so yummy but of them I guess 3 hungry tummies, Kitchen tantra and Bong mom's cook book help me put together a meal effortlessly!

There is so much talent around each of these blogs that one can't stop at just 'being inspired' but keep blogging further...

It has been the most exciting blogging journey thus far and I am so looking forward to more in the future.

Graam Baangla

2010-11-24T11:31:00.000+05:30

Speeding through the Kolyani Highway with Bhatiali gaan in the background and lush green scenery interspersed with the eclectic view of diverse pukur’s (ponds) marked the memorable road trip to Mayapur.

Having a toddler (my 2 year old son) and a set of highly creative women (my mum n her sister- ex Shantiniketan products) as my fellow passengers added to the excitement of the trip.

Originally a 3 hour ride, we converted the journey to a daylong affair. The drive out of Kolkata was a bit annoying with all the crazy busses and of course the broken down roads thanks to urban development but 30 minutes of chaos finally opened up into a delightful scenic drive from thereon…

Graam Bangla is so pure and rich. All one can visualize when this word crops-up is ‘WET n GREEN’. Acres and acres of land tilting rice crop, variety of leafy vegetables, coconut trees and ponds with not just ducks but people with fishing nets trying to get the catch of the day! What a sight!

Our first stop was a breakfast halt at roadside shacks made of clay and straw. Both sides of the road were lined with them. Roll your windows down and the smell of ash from burning coal in a handmade chimney welcomes you. Bio is a way of life in this region. Walk through the shacks and each has something different to offer to you. I settled at a shack where we got ‘duck eggs’ while my mum and her sister chose the one where they could have ‘alloor dom and kochuri’….

My son perhaps saw a pig sty for the first time in real. He was in splits to see the pigs grunting away in their sty. This visual tactic helped us get down breakfast really fast for him. Just when he was through his first few morsels we spotted a kid at a distance. We went along and played with the kid for a bit…perhaps my first encounter with a kid as well! I was delighted to caress the little being and Adi found great courage to do so too!!!

With breakfast break through we continued the journey yet once more. Probably another hour into the journey my aunt recalled that we were closer to a small town called Hallishohor (my mother’s mama’r bari and a place I have frequented innumerable times as a child). The star attraction was ‘Gonga-e snaan’ (bathing in the Ganges) and since we were so close we didn’t want to miss it at all. We were parked at the river bank for a couple of hours just soaking in the beauty around the place. Being kartik ekadashi day there were many people dropping by to take a holy dip in the river. It was fun hanging around looking at the locals do their deeds while we clicked snaps and occasionally dipped our feet in the cold water.

Nearing mid afternoon in true Bong style it was time for lunch. So finally we bid adieu to the ganges and headed forward only to take a brake 30 minutes into the drive at a local restaurant….I am using the word restaurant but it was a slightly more sophisticated shack as they had a few fans hanging along with a couple of tube wells!!!! Man what a lunch it was!!!! Katla maach bhaaja (fish fry), daal, bhaath (rice) and potoler torkari (vegetable). We polished off some 12 pieces of fish fry that afternoon. It was bliss!!! The bill; jaw dropping 120 bucks!

After this our driver decided he’s gonna take us for a drive we will never forget. We drove for almost a couple of hours only to realize that we went around in a circle to return to the same spot again (maybe I am exaggerating here but that’s how it felt) and at that point all the romance around Graam Bangle suddenly disappeared. We had to hit destination and this task was fulfilled with numerous enquiries with villagers followed by another hour of driving. Finally we hit Mayapur a few minutes before sunset…

All in all I can’t wait to explore Graam Baangla yet again! A cherished and memorable trip.

Deepening my knowledge on Bharatnatyam

2010-10-26T05:54:00.000+05:30

I have been researching on Bharatnatyam and hence Carnatic Music through the web while my Guru directs me with my practical knowledge on the art form through my rigorous riyaaz. Sharing a very interesting read on the oldest and perhaps the most orthodox form of rendition of the art- Bharatnatyam Pandanainallur style.

Pandanallur Heritage

While reading this article I also chanced upon a very well articulated post on Jathiswaram where the writer has simplified the complexity woven around this tukda which requires rigorous training and upasana by the performer through which they can achieve perfection. Take a dekho... I was very inspired!

Jathiswaram made simple

Happy reading! :)

Dhunuchi naach: my personal aroti to Durga Ma

2010-10-21T11:38:00.000+05:30

The earliest memory of me doing Dhunuchi Naach goes back to as early as being 4. In a pandal near the big lake in Hyderabad, with my Dadu watching over me, I swayed to the rhythmic strums of the Dhaki's and the next vivid memory was of picking up a small silver trophy as a token of appreciation by the Pujo for my performance. I don't think there has been a year where I may have missed an opportunity to perform ever since. Now at 32 when I am asked how does it feel to win OR have I come first I have only one thing to say; this is my personal offering of devotion to Ma, it is not about competing but about being one with her through my dance...

The aroma of dhuno, the resonating sound of multiple dhak's calling out to Ma and that enigmatic face fills me with an emotion which is beyond words. All I can feel at that moment is thumping of my heart, my feet tapping and a surge to sway with the rhythm without loosing a moment. To me it is the sound of victory and the elation felt when good prevails over evil...

With this year now in the past all I can say is: 'Bolo bolo Durga Ma ki; Jai... Ashche bochor abaar hobe!!!'

Pictures courtesy: Mukesh Trivedi- Senior Photographer DNA and Samar Sengupta

October 2010

Ganpati bappa moriya...

2010-10-04T07:42:00.000+05:30

This was Adi's first year of Ganpati celebration at home. It is a yearly festivity at my in-laws and finally we have got the strength to carry forward the tradition at our home from this year.

Buying the idol was amazing fun. We had a whole load of elphant god's we could choose from but being a toddler home we settled down for a very unconventional look- we brought home 'Bal Ganesha' (toddler elephant god). Our Ganesha was riding a scooty with his lil friend; the mouse, pearched at his feet looking a wee-bit scared at the thought of a joy ride with the Lord...un-charted territories I guess!!! :)

Satya did the Puja as per vidhi's. I made the prasadam at home.

Puliodhare, payasam and modaks (courtesy a friend) both rice n wheat. Post the puja we had friends who joined in for lunch which was served on banana leaves...We tried to make it as authentic as possible!

We had guests all trough the 1.5 days of celebrations.

Thank-you all for all the encouragement as well as being so enthusiastic! It has build up our apetite for a more funfilled occasion for next year...

Ganpati bappa moriya...pudhchya varshi laukar yeah!

ceramic(some)times: Kolkatta's Potters Market 2010

2010-08-13T13:39:00.000+05:30

ceramic(some)times: Kolkatta's Potters Market 2010

Tea with some clouds...

2010-08-11T20:23:00.000+05:30

A trotolla spinned it all...

2010-08-06T10:56:00.000+05:30

Wiseacring for the Swing of Thought: A trotolla spinned it all...

Kenny Rogers - Lady

2010-08-05T11:37:00.000+05:30

In whatever kind of a “race” life may be, I have very abruptly become a finalist.- By Christopher Hitchens

2010-08-05T11:00:00.000+05:30

Christopher Hitchens is a Vanity Fair contributing editor. Here is a read from his 'First Person' column of Vanity Fair's Culture where he speaks about his discovery of cancer.

Topic of Cancer

One fine June day, the author is launching his best-selling memoir, Hitch-22. The next, he’s throwing up backstage at The Daily Show, in a brief bout of denial, before entering the unfamiliar country—with its egalitarian spirit, martial metaphors, and hard bargains of people who have cancer.

Read more...

Mirza Ghalib – A biographical Scenario by Gulzar

2010-08-05T09:30:00.000+05:30

I happened to chance upon this beautiful book last evening while i was spending time at a bookshop. Absolutely captivating so much so I was just unable to drop the book for a moment. almost spent a couple of hours at the store reading it and another hour at the hair dresser....still reading it!!! A collectors item in my opinion.

Here is a small write-up by Anuradha Goyal where she describes the synopsis of the read. This was written in 2007.

This is not a typical biography that traces the life and time of Ghalib, but a more poetic anthology, a few defining scenes of his life that give a jest of what Ghalib was. It has 17 chapters or 17 scenes. Book describes a bit of his childhood and his marriage to Umrao Jaan, who remained his only wife all his life, His relationship with her and the faith that she had put in him. They never agreed on their views on many things, most prominent being religion and its rituals, but they still had all the love and faith for each other.

It traces the situations in his that lead him to say most of his famous couplets. Without describing him, it etches out the character of Ghalib very well, who was a drunkard and a gambler all his life and never felt apologetic about it. He lived most of his life in debt. He knew he is a poet and he would not do anything else. He knew he deserved to be the poet laureate of Delhi, and he would not take any other position but that in the court of Bahadur Shah Zafar. He is eccentric, knows this fact, he not only accepts this fact but also enjoys it.

It talks about the courtesan who falls in love with him. She is the only one who predicts that one day he would be Dilli’s poet laureate. When people say he is in debt, she says’ what about the debt that the whole Dilli owes him?’ Ghalib also promises to gift her a shawl if that happened and a series of events take him to her grave, where he presents her the promised shawl.

The whole book is interspersed with poetry in Urdu and translated in English. There is context setting, followed by the couplets and if you understand Urdu a bit, you can simply get lost in the romanticism of the poetry and in his way with the words (andaz-e-bayan), in his ability to question everyone and everything. For example, he would not say that ‘my heart is crying’, but he would say ‘why should my heart not cry?’

Gulzar calls himself the third servant of Ghalib, two others are mentioned across the book and formed an important part of the portrayal of the poet. An easy to read small book, a good reading for anyone who admires or appreciates Urdu poetry.

Read the review @mouthshut

This is where you can buy the book:
Rediff Shopping
Infibeam.com

Some mobile uploads...

2010-08-04T13:46:00.001+05:30

These are a few picture I clicked on my mobile in the last few months.

Thanks to 'Once upon a teacup story' and her lil write-up on 'Over a cup of tea- feeling blue' I felt like posting this image of my balcony which I clicked some 3 months back.

Around the same time Satya and me picked up a set of interesting beer glasses which we pull out when we have some special beer drinking friends over.

Already into mid wednesday and soon it will be party time again... :)

Acrylic on canvas-2: Habitat

2010-08-04T09:12:00.000+05:30

This is my second painting in the current series. I have named it habitat. This is the stage just before the larger responsibilities in life hit us (my earlier painting post is the stage post this). Life is full of freshness, fertility and aspirations which know no bound. Tried to bring out this feeling with my colours.

Habitat- August 2010

Acrylic on canvas

2010-08-03T16:08:00.000+05:30

One of my first painting after almost 2 decades. Plan to finish a series of them by September end.

Inspired by "mother & child", Acrylic on canvas, July 2010

Saffron and Silk: Tabletop Tuesday

2010-08-03T15:37:00.000+05:30

Sharing a peek into a fellow bloggers home. This is what I call contemporary...

Saffron and Silk: Tabletop Tuesday: "Today I am linking up with Patty of Colours Dekor for Tabletop August! Check out Patty's blog...its as colorful, cheerful and happy as she i..."

My own Buddha Bar

2010-08-03T09:19:00.001+05:30

have always been quiet intrigued by Buddha and its manifestations. Captured the latest addition of Buddha at home, my tranquil Budha corner...

Adi's creation

2010-08-02T15:02:00.000+05:30

Adi has been working with building blocks for over 4 months now but his imagination is at its best. He was into stacking up blocks and calling them building for a long while but over the last couple of weeks he has begun demonstrating more creativity.

Building with his blocks.

The creation: Single & Double sofa set!

In addition Adi is also wanting to eat on his own, iron clothes and thanks to all the bug watching that we have begun doing he is extremely innovative with his friend 'Bugsy'. He calls the bugs 'kidah' as in bugs in Hindi and top top it all has words like 'ginni ginni karega' which is equivalent of the bugs movement in his words! :D Check him out in action...

Adi's doting grand-parent moments.

2010-07-30T10:37:00.000+05:30

With every passing day the bond between Adi, my parents and my sisters is growing beyond words. It's amazing how the human mind identifies and associates with bonds from such an early age. Posting some loveable moments of Adi and his favorites...

Eating an apple with Dumma

Massage time with Dadu-bhai

Masti with Mashi

We share a speacial bond with Mesho

Evening at the park with Pinni & Mashi

Dumma-Adi moment... :D

Full-on pampering!

Dadu-bhai & Adi moment... :D

How much fun is that!!!

At times I wish I can hold onto these moments and not let if whisk past so fast.
Why does growing-up need to come to a human being so soon? ...

The Solitary Reaper- William Wordsworth

2010-07-29T10:41:00.004+05:30

Behold her, single in the field, Yon solitary Highland Lass!
Reaping and singing by herself; Stop here, or gently pass!
Alone she cuts and binds the grain, And sings a melancholy strain;
O listen! for the Vale profound; Is overflowing with the sound.

No Nightingale did ever chaunt; More welcome notes to weary bands
Of travellers in some shady haunt, Among Arabian sands:
A voice so thrilling ne'er was heard In spring-time from the Cuckoo-bird,
Breaking the silence of the seas Among the farthest Hebrides.

Will no one tell me what she sings?-- Perhaps the plaintive numbers flow
For old, unhappy, far-off things, And battles long ago:
Or is it some more humble lay, Familiar matter of to-day?
Some natural sorrow, loss, or pain, That has been, and may be again?

Whate'er the theme, the Maiden sang As if her song could have no ending;
I saw her singing at her work, And o'er the sickle bending;--
I listened, motionless and still; And, as I mounted up the hill,
The music in my heart I bore, Long after it was heard no more

About the poem:
"The Solitary Reaper" is a ballad by English Romantic poet William Wordsworth, and one of his best-known works in English literature. In it, Wordsworth describes in the first person, present tense, how he is amazed and moved by a Scottish Highlands girl who sings as she reaps grain in a solitary field. Composed in 1805, the poem was first published in Poems, in Two Volumes (1807). Each of its four stanzas is eight lines long and written in iambic tetrameter, with a rhyme scheme of a-b-a-b-c-c-d-d, though in the first and last stanzas the "A" rhyme is off.
'"The Solitary Reaper" is one of Wordsworth's most famous post-Lyrical Ballads lyrics. The words of the reaper's song are incomprehensible to the speaker, so his attention is free to focus on the tone, expressive beauty, and the blissful mood it creates in him. The poem functions to 'praise the beauty of music and its fluid expressive beauty, the "spontaneous overflow of powerful feeling" that Wordsworth identified at the heart of poetry

Structure & Synopsis:
"The Solitary Reaper" begins with the speaker instructing us to look upon "Yon solitary Highland Lass" who is "Reaping and singing by herself". Thrilled by her song, the speaker compares the girl to a nightingale whose "melancholy strain" welcomes "weary bands / Of travellers" to "some shady haunt, / Among Arabian sands". Yet he does not understand the words of her song (presumably they are in the Scottish Gaelic language), and impatiently cries, "Will no one tell me what she sings?" He wonders if the subject is of "battles long ago" or of commonplace and universal things ("familiar matters of to-day"), perhaps "some natural sorrow, loss, or pain."

Then he dismisses his own musings -- "Whate'ver the theme," he says, "the Maiden sang / As if her song could have no ending" -and refocuses his attention on the song. He listens, "motionless and still", before finally mounting the hill and leaving the solitary reaper, still singing, behind. Though his ears cannot hear the song anymore, the sound of the Highland Lass's music will forever be a fresh and evocative memory in his heart.
Wordsworth, his sister Dorothy, and his friend and fellow poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge had visited the Scottish Highlands in 1803. According to Dorothy's diary, solitary reapers were not an uncommon sight. And in a note to the 1807 edition, Wordsworth acknowledged his indebtedness to his friend Thomas Wilkinson's manuscript from a tour of Scotland.

Some other popular poems of William Wordsworth:

Daffodils
The Sonnet

What Montessori Really Looks Like

2010-07-27T10:59:00.000+05:30

This article articulates the sentiments of Montessori training with such a aplomb. I enjoyed reading through and thought i should share it with all my friends.

What Montessori really looks like...

Playing 'Mumma' all the way...

2010-07-27T09:54:00.001+05:30

Finally, I have been able to make that crucial decision of quitting. Never thought it could be so tough when I got back to work exactly a year back post my maternity break. Adi had just turned 1 and I thought life is getting back into some kind of predictability but surprises come in all sizes!

To be able to sit and jot my thoughts with such clarity in itself is a big leap in faith. I cant wait to go bug watching with my lil boy every morning at the park. Feels like I have turned over a new leaf again.

It does call for a lot of courage but truly I am happy that I can do exactly what my being wants to do... be a mother!

So from an extremely confused state of mind to a much clearer one I move on to take the challenge of my next life... :D

4th july, 2010. Adi turns 2!

2010-07-26T10:46:00.000+05:30

Adi turned 2 on 4th July. His birthday was first celebrated at Peace Montessorie with his friends and teachers. As a ritual, he carried a globe in his hand and circled along the blue line signifying the earth's journey around the moon. A large candle (aka the moon) was placed at the center of the room. He cut the cake and shared french fries as a treat for his friends followed by loads of pampering from his grandmom and aunt.

We visited the temple on the 4th. Adi had a time of his life with his grand parents as well as his aunts.

We had a fun party planned in the evening with a magic show, lots of games and yummy food for all our friends and family. It was a good get together with almost 100% of our guest list landing up. The kids enjoyed the magic show and they loved the tatoo's!

Finally it was time to open the gifts! I thought my baby would be exhasted after the day long chaos but he was an entertainer. Amazing where they get all this energy from. I simply attribute it to the heightened sugar levels in his system from the evening!

This marks the end of my baby's funfilled birthday! I am so looking forward to being part of this milestone year and will keep posting our 'Mumma-baby' moments as well.

Sar kiyea pahaar by Strings

2010-07-13T12:34:00.000+05:30

Sar kiyea pahaar by Strings

Tracking the terrible 2's...

2010-07-06T12:12:00.001+05:30

I am prepared for the worst through this milestone year and man is it already coming true!!! Adults being driven up the wall... who ever said its exaggeration.
My son has been demonstrating very strong points of view for a while now but with his 2nd birthday behind us suddenly he seems to assert his positions very firmly.

We had to equip him with rain-gear last evening when we went out for a stroll because he refused to be carried and insisted he wants to get wet!
The story doesn't end there; since now we were ready for the rain we were happy n filled with glee while getting wet and in the process our jammies got wet with the rain water that seeped in through the gum boots. Finally when it was time to remove the raincoat out sleeves of the night suit were wet too! So as distressed set of parents we walked back to the raincoat shop and this time around picked up a dry set of night clothes!!!!

Oh not to miss a couple of hours before this incident Adi went down to play in the evening with his bicycle. I was amazed to see the alternate use of the trainer wheel. My son and his friends were using the wheel as their steering wheel. The 'vroom-vroom' vocals added to the excitement even more...

With his skills growing at such rapid pace I got excited and now have re-arranged my baby's shelves so that I can help him develop his fine motor skills as well as help him with his organisational behaviour. Have been advised by a lot of books as well as his school on these tricks. Hope they work!

Adi's also showing a lot of keenness towards music especially percussion. Thanks to all our family and friends he has been gifted with a lot of musical instrument which I know will help him bond with the art form. As for his spacial interest in percussion I am sure that the percussion set will keep him intrigued as well as engaged for a while to come. Thanku Ahaan, Shlok, Mathi n Metho! :)

Finally I have a task at hand to get Adi to begin using his activity books, the colours, the puzzles and read to him all the beautiful books (a gift I so deeply cherish and subscribe to be part of always). This is sure to keep him going for the next whole year! Was very thoughtful of all our friends...

So with renewed gusto for this wonderful milestone year "here I come"!!! :D

4th of July, 2010

2010-07-06T09:47:00.000+05:30

24 months of motherhood and more to come...

2010-07-02T10:08:00.000+05:30

Never realised the depth of what it meant every time my Mom said "wait till you become a mother"! Always left me wondering whether she hates the feeling, loves it sooo much that it hurts or is confused about it...

9 months into holding life inside of me and 24 months of actually nurturing it and I can somewhat put a finger to the statement.

Adi turns 2 this Sunday and I feel so blessed to have had the opportunity to unfold this wonderful side of life. Milestone reached but my head is reeling with thoughts of the future, challenges of the present and bewilderment of the past not to mention frustration of handling the terrible 2's too!!!

Looking forward to the next year and all the wonderful experiences it's set to unfold.

A short note from a proud Mumma of a 2 year old... :D

Rain and garam chai- a trip down memory lane...

2010-06-16T09:20:00.000+05:30

Woke up this morning to the kind of rains that I love watching while cosily perched on my red chair in the balcony. The raindrops seem to be in such a hurry and the wind only helps as much with bringing in all but chaos in the rush hour!

..and while I sit enjoying the tease play comes my mug of garam chai! My husband is famous with his chai making skills and both of us can sit chatting for hours on multiple cups of this warm concoction.

Come monsoons and chai takes in first place to any kind of drink. A trend which has been part of my growing up years too!

My school would plan a week long (if we were lucky) trek every monsoon and we'd all wait for this event to happen all year long. The trek would typically happen at Sinhagadh, a fort destination about 90kms from Pune. The trek up from base camp would be about a couple of hours. We'd climb, wade through trickling baby streams, slip in the slimy forest muck, walk through a small strip of land precariously planted at the edge of a steep fall into the valley and seldom sit to catch our breath around a reasonably large water stream gushing down the terrains! This sit down would intersperse with a light snack and a drink of 'CHAI'. A memory which is beyond any tell tale. Cold from getting wet in the rain, tiered of climbing the steep but heightened levels of enthusiasm to taste the adventure and just while the determination would begin to simmer came along the much awaited drink of chai! :)

Wild mushrooms particularly would be my point of fascination during these treks. Their shapes, the way they'd all cluster together to make some amazing shapes, some which would grow out of barks of tree trunks and a few that would grow amidst corners of a row of stone carved stairs.

They all seemed to thrive so effortlessly in this moisture...

Another chai memory is of younger day's when it would pour outside (Pune would be chillier during monsoons compared to winters) and my Mum would make this extra large, over-size egg omelet with toast OR sausages with macaroni for brunch and a steaming hot pot of tea, the only time when we'd be allowed having tea at home. We'd polish off this feast inside the warmth of the blanket while watching the rain outside the window.

When in college my drop in attendance typically happened during the monsoons. A favorite activity with friends was to ride out on bikes and soak ourselves wet. These drives were amazing with the beauty of the terrains at its full glory we'd look for amazing chai tapri's (local stalls) where we'd warm up around the stoves while the chai got made n then warmed further with a drink of chai... We did this day in n day out! Miss those days!!!

So the chai stories continue to date and I am so looking forward to the warm plate of bhajji's with masala chai when Mumbai comes to a stand still this monsoon!

Amar chai 'Gorom Cha'!!!

Brishti pore tapur tupur (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O48IQMygQvQ)

2010-06-03T13:37:00.000+05:30

Brishti pore tapur tupur

node elo baan

baaner jole bhaslo pukur

bhaslo golar dhaan

brishti pore tapur tupur

node elo baan] (2)

[akash ghire naamlo dhaara

barsha sarbonasha] (2)

[bhese gelo maajh doriyaye

amar bhanga basa](2)

[fasal bhora jomin gelo

chashar gelo praan] (2)

ei agun nebha unun-e

din cholbe ki gujraan

baaner jole bhaslo pukur

bhaslo golar dhaan

brishti pore tapur tupur

node elo baan

brishti pore tapur tupur

node elo baan(2)

[ghano ghano guru guru

baaje re dambaru

thik liklik saaper mato

bijli soru soru] (2)

shib thakurer bie holo

teen konye daan

amar ghare konya k(n)ade

taar kemone hoy ahaar jogaan

baaner jole bhaslo pukur

bhaslo golar dhaan

brishti pore tapur tupur

node elo baan

brishti pore tapur tupur

node elo baan

baaner jole bhaslo pukur

bhaslo golar dhaan

brishti pore…

PHERARI MON FROM ANTAHEEN (FULL SONG)

2010-06-03T13:07:00.000+05:30

I can smell rain in the air...

2010-06-02T17:03:00.006+05:30

It's that time of the year when the clouds let their shower loose and weave into a harmonious prance; swaying with the wind they caress the hungry soil; find the soft green cocoon of the leaves and drop into an open shell to form that perfect pearl.

Rejoice monsoons here again!

The intimidating rumble announces the joy of droplets that are about to touch our lives. The excited winds gloats with triumph; here comes another monsoon that is about to bless earth with fertility and life.

And then it happens... the wait is no longer a wait! I rush out to feel the pierce of the first rain. The soil soaks in with equal glee. I stretch my arm to fell each drop trickle down my palm. I swing like a little canary and sing out loud while I drench myself making best of every bit of this long awaited moment. The thunder in its full glory strikes again and I rush back into the shelter of my home.

But not for long! As if teasing the clouds I rush back out and begin soaking again.

I wish I were a the wind, I wish I were the rain but then I thank God that I am me cause that's why the rain feels so special and so free!

My hair still dripping and my skins all crinkled; I think I've had my share of soak.

It’s time to hit the coffee mug and watch the swirls of steam mix in with the moist air. All soaked up and couched I look out from my window and enjoy nature unfolding its beauty.

Welcome back all you colourful umbrella's...

Come let us all celebrate...

Monsoon's here to stay!!!

Chadariyaa- Kabir

2010-05-19T17:58:00.001+05:30

kabīrā jab ham paidā hue jaga hańse ham roye aisī karanī kara calo ham hańse jaga roye chadariyā jhinī re jhinī he rāma nāma rasa bhinī
aṣṭa kamalā ka carkhā banāyā pañca tattva kī pūnī nava dasa māsa bunana ko lāge mūrakha mailī kinhī
jaba morī chādara bana ghara āyā rańga reja ko dinhī aisā rańga rańgā rańgare ne lālo lāla kar dinhī
cādara oḍha śańka mat kariyo yeh do dina tumko dinhī mūrakha loga bheda nahi jāne din din mailī kinhī
dhruva prahlāda sudāmā ne oḍhi śukadeva ne nirmala kinhī dāsa kabīra ne aisī odhī jyoń kī tyoń dhara dinhī

Poet Kabir says, “When I was born, the world smiled and cried. However, I will do such deeds that when I leave, I will be the one smiling and the world will be the one crying.” This life is like a very thin transparent shawl which should be drenched in the holy name of Lord Rama, the Reservoir of Pleasure.
The eight lotuses is the spinning wheel using the five earthly elements to make the chadar (the body). In nine of ten days, the chadar is completed; however, the fools will destroy it.
When the chadar is completed, it is sent to the dyer (the spiritual master) to color it. The dyer (the spiritual master) colored it as such that it is all red (the color of self-realization).
Do not have doubts or fears while wearing this chadar. It is only given to you for two days and it is temporary too. The foolish people do not understand the temporariness of this chadar, and they day by day destroy it.
Great devotees such as Dhroo Maharaja, Bhagat Prahlad, Sudama, and Brahmarshi Sukdev have worn this chadar as well as purified their chadars as well other chadars (souls). The servant, Kabir Dasa, is attempting to wear this chadar as given to him originally by his guru.

Some popular Kabir doha's...

2010-05-19T17:30:00.001+05:30

Chalti Chakki Dekh Kar, Diya Kabira Roye

Dui Paatan Ke Beech Mein,Sabit Bacha Na

[Looking at the grinding stones, Kabir laments

In the duel of wheels, nothing stays intact.]

**

Bura Jo Dekhan Main Chala, Bura Naa Milya Koye

Jo Munn Khoja Apnaa, To Mujhse Bura Naa Koye

[I searched for the crooked man, met not a single one

Then searched myself, "I" found the crooked one]

**

Kaal Kare So Aaj Kar, Aaj Kare So Ub

Pal Mein Pralaya Hoyegi, Bahuri Karoge Kub

[Tomorrow's work do today, today's work now

if the moment is lost, the work be done how]

**

Aisee Vani Boliye, Mun Ka Aapa Khoye

Apna Tan Sheetal Kare, Auran Ko Sukh Hoye

[Speak such words, sans ego's ploy

Body remains composed, giving the listener joy]

**

Dheere Dheere Re Mana, Dheere Sub Kutch Hoye

Mali Seenche So Ghara, Ritu Aaye Phal Hoye

[Slowly slowly O mind, everything in own pace happens

The gardiner may water with a hundred buckets, fruit arrives only in its season]

**

Sayeen Itna Deejiye, Ja Mein Kutumb Samaye

Main Bhi Bhookha Na Rahun, Sadhu Na Bhookha Jaye

[Give so much, O God, suffice to envelop my clan

I should not suffer cravings, nor the visitor go unfed]

**

Bada Hua To Kya Hua, Jaise Ped Khajoor

Panthi Ko Chaya Nahin, Phal Laage Atidoor

[In vain is the eminence, just like a date tree

No shade for travelers, fruit is hard to reach]

**

Jaise Til Mein Tel Hai, Jyon Chakmak Mein Aag

Tera Sayeen Tujh Mein Hai, Tu Jaag Sake To Jaag

[Just as seed contains the oil, fire's in flint stone

Your temple seats the Divine, realize if you can]

**

Kabira Khara Bazaar Mein, Mange Sabki Khair

Na Kahu Se Dosti, Na Kahu Se Bair

[Kabira in the market place, wishes welfare of all

Neither friendship nor enmity with anyone at all]

**

Pothi Padh Padh Kar Jag Mua, Pandit Bhayo Na Koye

Dhai Aakhar Prem Ke, Jo Padhe so Pandit Hoye

[Reading books where everyone died, none became anymore wise

One who reads the word of Love, only becomes wise]

**

Dukh Mein Simran Sab Kare, Sukh Mein Kare Na Koye

Jo Sukh Mein Simran Kare, Tau Dukh Kahe Ko Hoye

[In anguish everyone prays to Him, in joy does none

To One who prays in happiness, how sorrow can come]

List of Kabir Doha's:

1.Chalti Chakki Dekh Kar

2.Bura Jo Dekhan Mein Chala

3.Kaal Kare So Aaj Kar

4.Aisee Vani Boliye

5.Dheere Dheere Re Mana

6.Sayeen Itna Deejiye

7.Bada Hua To Kya Hua

8.Jaise Til Mein Tel Hai

9.Mangan Maran Saman Hai

10.Maya Mari Na Man Mara

11.Kabira Khara Bazaar Mein

12.Kabir Man Nirmal Bhaya

13.Pothi Padh Padh Jag Mua

14.Dukh Mein Simran Sab Kare

15.Gur Dhobi Sikh Kapda

16.Jeevat Samjhe Jeevat Bujhe

17.Akath Kahani Prem Ki

18.Chinta Aisee Dakini

19.Kabira Garv Na Keejiye

20.Kabira Garv Na Keejiye - 221.Kabir Kiya Kutch Na Hote Hai

22.Jyon Naino Mein Putli

23.Jab Tun Aaya Jagat Mein

24.Pehle Agan Birha Ki

25.Aag Jo Lagi Samand Mein26.Kabir So Dhan Sanchiye

27.Aasa Jive Jag Mare

28.Ek Kahun To Hai Nahin

29.Kabir Yeh Ghar Prem Ka

30.Maala To Kar Mein Phire

31.Maala Pherat Jug Bhaya

32.Kabir Maala Kaath Kee

33.Jab Mein Tha Tab Hari Nahin

34.Moond Munddavat Din Gaye

35.Keson Kaha Bigadia

36.Kabir Soota Kya Kare

37.Kabira Teri Jhompri

38.Kabir Soyee Soorma

Ice Ice Baby - Glee Cast

2010-05-19T11:37:00.000+05:30

This is what I call contemporary! Miss my growing up days... unbelieveable how many puppy love's suddenly made a quick appearence while I was watching through this video... :)

Bharatanrityam OR Bharatanatyam

2010-05-18T15:28:00.000+05:30

My expresion of taal perhaps matured because of the wonderful dance form that I have been associated with as a child. Jogging back my memory, going for the regular weekend classes felt such a burden during those growing up days. I'd rather wear my sneakers and play base ball than toast in the sun while cycling down from home to the class, of course not to mention the hammering which one got for not stepping right at the beat of my guru-ji's taal!

A few memories that make you the person you are.

The quest around the dance form has deepend ever since. Today I am back to training under a new guru and feel a renewed rigor with which I pursue my talent. Determined that I will reach my arangetram this time I am readying myself with knowledge beyond the practical. I am reaching out to various sources of content to deepen my historical knowledge of this beautiful dance form.

Bharatnatyam is the one of the oldest classical dance form of India which originates from Tamil Nadu and is also popularly known as the 'fifth' veda. As the name depicts it is the combination of Bha-bhava, Ra-raaga & Ta-taala which gave rise to its name.

The spiritual symbolism of Bharatanatyam is a manifestation of the ancient idea of celebration of the eternal universe through the celebration of beauty of the material body. It consists of elaborate gestures (Mridu Angaharas, movements of limbs), sentiments (Rasas), emotional states (Bhavas). Actions (Kriyas) are its soul. The costumes are charmingly beautiful and love (Sringara) is its foundation.

Some of the well-known interpretations of dance form are by Padma Subrahmanyam that were based on 108 (karana's) brief movement phrases describing specific leg, hip, body, and arm movements accompanied by 52 hasta mudras (hand movements) described in the Natya shastra and other scriptures, and from depictions of the movements in sculpture in five South Indian temples, notably the Chidambaram temple which contains depictions of the full set. Some other Bharatanatyam gurus, such as Adyar Lakshman (Kalakshetra school) and Sheela Unnikrishnan (Mangudi school), as well as the Kuchipudi guru C.R.Acharya have also attempted to reconstruct all the 108 karanas, which were often significantly different from Padma Subrahmanyam's interpretations.

Due to the significant variations in the depictions, and due to the vague textual descriptions, most traditional Bharatanatyam schools considered Padma Subrahmanyam's interpretations as incorrect, which forced her to name her own style as Bharatanrityam rather than Bharatanatyam.

While there are still some elderly devadasis who perform all the 108 karanas, in most contemporary Bharatanatyam or Odissi schools only 50-60 karanas have been transmitted by parampara up to date.

Apart from that, performing of the same karana differ greatly across different classical Indian styles. Currently, as regards the exact technique, there are no established standards and no universally agreed upon interpretations of the texts and sculptures.

I feel like lavendar today!

2010-05-18T12:12:00.006+05:30

Lavendar is a pale tint of violet. It applies particularly to the colour of the flower of the same name. The colour lavendar can be described as a medium violet or a light pinkish purple. The complimentary colour of lavendar is Olive.

The term lavendar may also be used in general to apply to a wide range of pale, light, medium or greyish violet colours as well as some pale or light pinkish, magenta, or purple colours as well as some pale or light bluish, indigo colours.

The first recorded use of the word lavendar as a colour term in english was in 1705

The colour amethyst is a moderate transparent violet. It's name is derived from the stone amethyst, a form of quartz. Though the colour of natural amethyst varies from purple to yellow, the amethyst colour refered to here is a moderate purple colour most commonly associated with the stone. Some believe that the colour is there due to the presence of manganese while others have suggested that the colour could be from ferric thiocyanate or sulphur found in the amethyst stone. This colour may also be called as medium deep lavendar. it is deep rich medium violet.

Parent to a y2k todler...

2010-05-17T15:10:00.006+05:30

My first post after the birth of Advaita- my 22 month old son.

y2k? A term that died a rapid death but left back a changed world. A world that has forgotten how a paper envelope looks; a world that reads news on networking apps; a world which is now 'boundary less'!

Diaper rash- a phenomenon that I can't recall my son suffering; thanks to overload of information. Todler cot; a habit that Adi got into from the moment we stepped into our home. Finger food; a step towards independent growing up. Mother-todler montessorie school; a choice made as early as when Adi was 11 months and thus a strikingly independent "not yet" 2 year old todler!

Philosophy of parenting is seeing a rapid change. Complexity of course is unavoidable! We are grappling with schooling options- from straight to international to home schooling! While we are patient in some ways we are silently demanding in others.

Life has become so digital. It is all about bits n bytes...

Wish we could slowdown our pace and go back to the simple and straight magical world that was all about decoding emotions by feeling it...

Processed is in but at the cost of diminishing simplicity.

Exerpts from Robin Sharma- Always so crisp and to the point!

2008-02-25T14:06:00.002+05:30

1. Struggle promotes authenticity and courage

2. Build community (relationships matter here)

3. People may not follow what you say but they will always do what you do (So LBE: Lead By Example)

4. AHF (Always Have Fun). I do believe that we need to have more fun while we work (and every audience on this tour has agreed with me). Fun builds collaboration, connection and boosts creativity. So inject Short Bursts of Fun into your day (all it takes is a little ice cream as an appetizer :)

To quit or not to quit?

2008-02-19T12:32:00.003+05:30

My mind is running a marathon right now. The reward for which is motherhood!
Every trimester is a baton I have passed successfully to the next, which in this context is lap-2 of the race. While I am inching closer to the new half mark of my second trimester (lap-2), I just cant stop worrying about the pace of my immediate race contender in the parallel lane- 'Professional mommy to be' who is so rapidly loosing steam as compared to me- 'Mommy happy being home' and of course I cant begin to ignore the very competitive- 'Super mom juggling both' in the lead!
Delima? Do I need to say more?
'Super mom juggling both' is an epitome of success who is next to impossible to race with since she is way beyond our normal human DNA. She is probably the one who has a parent next door happy to run her home, a husband who willingly stays home while she sets out, a barrage of maids attending to all home needs and a very servant-smelling baby who is lost in anticipation of the mother figure, which probably he has yet to developed recognition for!
'Professional mommy to be' is struggling with the weight of the new found status and is very often not happy that she has to deal with the black world of work while she struggles with her set of anguish towards building that perfect family that she has dreamed of having ever since she can remember! I predict that she may give up sooner unless she has an ounce of what it takes to become ‘Super mom juggling both’!
'Mommy happy being home' bakes the cake and eats it too. She is an image most of us willingly or secretly always choose to acknowledge. While she is someone who all of us wants to resist, it’s not very far when we succumb to aspiring to become her while running the race! It’s a matter of time before most of us hit this state, either temporarily or forever!
So while choosing my marathon profile, I believe that I have all that it takes to be eligible for 'Mommy happy being home' since I have made my choice already. What I am racing against is the time in my life when I shall keep aspiring to be 'Super mom juggling both' and hopefully hit the successful stage of balancing the status of 'Professional mommy’ who is ‘happy being home'! :D
Would love to hear your views on this topic. Feel free to drop in a few comments on my site.

80GB iPOD Classic

2008-02-18T16:52:00.003+05:30

Closer to Valentines Day, Satya my husband, walked home with a really cute gift wrapped box. Since he got back a little earlier than usual decided to open the door rather than ring the bell. Thoughtful of him since I usually nap during the noon these days especially with all the weight I am putting on courtesy to our l’il angel in the making!
There was this familiar mischief on his face and after a really long time I could sense he is feeling very delighted about walking back home with a surprise; just like he used to when we were courting. Truthfully, the moment left me with a butterfly sensation in my stomach! God, wish I could store that look permanently.
Guessing was a task but when I actually held this piece of silver gadget in my hand I was just too awe struck to react. More than the gift it was the person who was gifting! From the days when we counted every 'chillar' in our pocket for paying for our basic daily travel to actually the feeling of that moment when I held this gift, which I'd always wanted but thought 'its expensive, maybe next month' every time I went shopping, left me absolutely numb. Maybe somewhere we have stopped expecting. Perhaps its growing-up and adulthood! I really don’t know what it truly is but surely know that someone cares like no-one else does! :D
Emotions are so precious and when people who joyously bond with it, it helps give birth to such a memorable moment.
In this era of 'making money for basic survival' somewhere we may have lost the touch of making each other feel special like we used to when we were younger. Could be hormones but with my first IPOD in hand I am elated that while the gadget has played the expensive mediator I've been able to store a memory so intense and deep that it truly is the 80GB memory. No matter how much I fill, the memory just doesn’t exhaust!
The reason I chose to name this post as '80GB IPOD Classic' is not because of the brand or its monetary value but for the amazing memory that it has left behind for years to come and has the same attributes like that of the product. EMOTIONS should never be under estimated or neglected. May all of us keep living the 80GB life! I love you Beba...

Venus- Planet of love...

2008-02-18T12:16:00.001+05:30

Wonder if u've had a similar situation like that of mine? My parents made sure that I come with 'no silver spoon' in my mouth and thus decided to name their first born 5kg fair baby girl Suhael, which means Venus- the planet of love!!! Began my tryst with vivid imaginations where my every first 'naming' moment are laced with curiosity as well as confused smirks and thankfully now followed by pleasant remarks! It’s been 29 years of explaining to all that while my name originates from Islamic origins and is vastly a name used for a male child, I am a living example of the feminine version of it! Sohel, Sohail, Soyal, etc are the various male adaptations BUT Suhael is not!!!! Thus, in my continued fight to overcome the initial barriers, I dedicate this blog to the original meaning of my name 'Suhael- Venus, the planet of love'; which is feminine & belongs to my gender, as a tribute to many of us who has had a harrowing time with your names! Share your experiences and let me know how you've managed to move on with the utter annoying yet sometimes funny state that surrounds your name.