Childhood days – 4
As I mentioned to you, I will tell you some information about my paternal Grandfather. He is by name Sivasubramani Iyer and my Grandmother by name Alamelu Ammal. ( Both are not around any more)
He retired as school teacher – served in the same school he studied and passed out. He lost his father few days before his birth and was looked after by his mother. He worked hard to come up in life by sticking to his noble profession.
Like many people of his time, he too under went financial hardship. He was an excellent teacher in many subjects – Sanskrit, English, Mathematics and General Science.
He also practiced Astrology( Not Palmistry) and was responsible for making the Birth Chart of almost all babies born in the family till a couple of years before his death on 13-11-1972( Monday)
I met him during my summer vacations. Most of the time, I was in my grandparents house along with my father. I cannot remember a time my mother too was also there. For some unknown reason, my mother never stayed there more than once or so. (Before I was born)
He was very affectionate towards everyone except my father. My father was financier to him, but still there was rift between them. I could sense this nature, but never understood why?
At this point I wish to add that I inherited his personal diary and learned about his own- life and time- which I will add some times later.
My first visit to him was when I was in studying in class 8(Third Form of olden days)
This was around 12 years age and I travelled by an express train from Morappur to Alwaye. I was seen off by my father. Before sending me, my father did post an EXPRESS LETTER CARD to my grandfather. Unfortunately, I was earlier than the card and received it on my grandfather’s behalf!!The letter arrived by 8AM. I reached there by 7AM
I had a small metal brief case, and some eatables for my grandparents – given courtesy of my mother, and I took a rickshaw from Parur bus stop to our street (Karakad street.)
I hated a man pulling the rickshaw especially with me inside, and so, got down at the entrance to the street and paid him off his charge- 50 paise.
As I walked thru’ the street, almost all occupants came out and stared at me. I did not bother about this, as it is a common practice by all, when some one comes there to any of the families residing on either side of the street.
My grand father was chanting his usual prayers when I entered the house. Very quickly, he ordered me to leave my footwear at the entrance pavement and instructed my grandmother to provide me with sufficient water to wash my feet before entering the house.
I was told to leave my clothing out inside the open bathroom and change over to a dhoti provided by grandmother. I requested my grand parents to stand up and acknowledge my namaskarams. So, they both stood facing the west while I threw by body in front of them. My grand father directed his ears to my mouth with rapt attention -to confirm if I was uttering the usual manthras before falling to his feet.
Please note, that it is necessary for a Brahmin to chant the mantras meant for taking the blessing of elders. Also, one should offer their namaskars after arriving and also before leaving. But not when elders are leaving.
He seems to have uttered some Godly words, and gave me VIBOOTHI when I stood up. I handed over to them the eatables I brought for them.
My grand father was very happy for a moment and returned to his routine of chanting the holy script. My grandmother started getting queries from the next door aunty if Iam the eldest son of Shr.Mani( My father was known as Mr.Mani in his home town)
I got a glass of hot filtered coffee and was directed to have bath before breakfast. Since it was around 9AM, Iwas prohibited from taking a dip in the local tank/pond. (One should use the tank well in the early hours of the morning)
So, I took a quick bath using well water. There was, always kept a bucket with rope and a large brass vessel to collect water for the bath. Later I had breakfast.
Then, my grandfather, who by then has completed his morning prayers, enquired about my parents, brothers and sisters. Then he told me about forth coming visits by other grandchildren during this vacation.
During my stay with him, I met most of the neighbors who visited him often – particularly to consult him with horoscopes of their children particularly girls. During this period, many came with worries on the fate of their Money / Deposits held with Pala Bank which just collapsed.
My grandfather never charged any one for their consultancy on any matter but always joked with them what they will do if everything comes true. But none gave him a straight answer and returned with a funny smile.
There was some thing I want to share with you all now. The residents respected my grand father – as he was teacher to most of them and they feared him out of sheer respect. The same thing was extended to me as well for some reason unknown to me till date.
The vendor in the weekly market used to stand up at the very sight of my grandfather. When I went with him – for the first time, he told most of the vendors, that I will be buying items from them and they should treat me like they did with him.
I experienced this whenever I went to the market. My grandfather never accepted anything from any vendor free of charge and instructed me not to fall prey for them. He will bargain down to earth and succeed in all his buying.
There was one vendor, he was very touchy – he always told him to give good education to his children and not to make them rot like him. I found out that this particular vendor was his student and never passed 5th class despite my grandfather’s pursuing him.
My grandfather never trusted any one before the person passed his questionnaire. For example, one day he asked me to post a card in the red box kept in the post office on the first floor of a building on the way to the weekly market.
He told me not to post it in another post box kept in our street corner close to Lord Krishna Temple. He doubted that, this box was seldom cleared - as per the time schedule mentioned.
So, I posted the letter in the red box kept in the post office itself. I too verified if the letter will reach the destination on time and only after the post master replied affirmatively, I posted the letter.
I returned home fast and my grandfather quickly asked me why I was early – if I posted the letter in the close by box. I told him that I did as per his instruction only.
Days passed and there was no reply for this particular letter which apparently was addressed to my youngest uncle Mr.Devarajan who was having some problems in his workplace.
Once again, my grandfather accused me of telling a lie and doubted if I have posted into some other box. I did not know what to tell and how to prove what I have done.
Fortunately post man delivered an inland letter (my uncle never used a post card ever to write a letter as he felt it is indecent to do so) This letter was reply to the letter card I posted, which was received by my uncle within 5 days but reply was delayed. So, my grandfather now convinced but did not like to show his appreciation kept quiet.
During this vacation, I went to local temples regularly and walked thru’ the areas close to the back waters around.
Will be, continued.
26-03-09
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Childhood Days-3
Having got lease of life, to continue in this world, everyone looked after me as necessary. No one has told me how I fared my early months of life.
All I know is too many people were around me. My schooling was in-front of a very elderly teacher – I think by name George- who also was my mother’s teacher in her 4th class. I was entrusted to him for a couple of hours per day, just keep me away from the rest, as they all experienced trouble everywhere- caused by me.
I was not prepared to sit or stand in-front of him – (by nature I’m like that even to-day) and wanted to be free on my own. Despite my resistance, I was given fair amount of teachings in most subjects of primary schooling. Later I was asked to attend school, only during my stay in my grandparent’s house along with my mother. I was only 3 or 4 years young.
One day, it poured, and visibility was very poor and I ventured out to see everything under the rain and went to school soaking wet.
No plastic paper to wrap my slate, no umbrella above my head. There were so many children along with me leading to school. Half-way thru’ I saw a canal deep enough to wet me to my knees and we crossed it wetting ourselves. Then as we walked along the path way – made between the lands meant for cultivating rice - a foot in width, there came a large RED LOTUS pond and a flooding river of sizable magnitude.
Here, I was caught unaware and nearly drowned but saved by fellow children who were taller than me. All the children and some teachers were from our neighbor-hood. They respected my grand parents and so was my status among them – as they also considered me as their own child.
Here I had to mention one interesting incident. The house had dog named BOW BOW- or that’s how I addressed the loyal animal. He was behind me at the start and I did not see him following me.
Bowbow, was quietly following me up-to the school and then disappeared. Later upon return I saw him running to me as I approached the gate. I hated dogs especially when they come close with an intention of licking me around. But Bow bow was not like that; he will run below my knee around me many times and sit down staring me with its tail waging always.
I saw him only during two of my vacations. Later during my third one, I was told, some one had poisoned him and so Bow bow, disappeared for ever. There were new dogs in the house, but I could not interact with any of them the way I did with Bow bow.
Many days, in the early hours, my grandmother will take me (I walked with her) along with my cousins, to the neighbor’s house to fetch milk. Even though, there were cows in the house, the milk was not enough for all. Also, some times one of the cow was about to give birth to a calf and there is shortage of milk.
The neighbors were mostly Christians besides Hindus. They were very good people, most being agriculturists and few being school teachers.
Later, I wanted to go with my grandmother to a particular vendor’s house. His name is VELLAI THOMAI – meaning White colored Thomas. Mr.Thomas was the only person in the area with White skin and there were so many with name Thomas, hence was identified so.
His house had a well grown Custard apple tree. I was very fond of this fruit and Thomas often gave it to me and I wanted more to be given to my cousins.
In other places, I got Cashew nut fruits on the condition that the nut is given to the owner. Please note that the Cashew nut is more expensive than the fruit. The fruits were of different colors and I chose the red ones.
There were other places in the neighborhood. My maternal Grand father was a reputed person and his own cousins, were living in the vicinity. Many were also residing in Trichur settled in different parts of the town.
I can remember few – Mr.P.S.Neelakanta Iyer – Who owned PSN bus service, others only by their affiliation of products or service. Like: Nadavarambu Krishna Brothers, Kamala Vilas Eye care products, Buffalo Milk vendor Mr.Mani Iyer, Pathan’s café owner, Sriram Mills owner, I.G.Srinivasa Iyer, Africa Viswanathan. Many I visited were of greater importance to my Grand father’s family.
Besides these people, there lived few aunties and uncles of my mother, all within walking distance. I got instant recognition as my mother is the only female in the family and was more influential than any one else in the family.
There were few on the main road side. They include my Maternal Grand-father’s elder brother Mr.Subramani Iyer and family.
There was retired Controller of Kerala State, owner of Tile factory, and many more.
In short, all my relatives and friends in the village of my mother were of affection, love and care taking people.
In my next part, I shall tell you, of my Paternal Grand parents who lived in the town named North Parur, close to Alwaye.
Having got lease of life, to continue in this world, everyone looked after me as necessary. No one has told me how I fared my early months of life.
All I know is too many people were around me. My schooling was in-front of a very elderly teacher – I think by name George- who also was my mother’s teacher in her 4th class. I was entrusted to him for a couple of hours per day, just keep me away from the rest, as they all experienced trouble everywhere- caused by me.
I was not prepared to sit or stand in-front of him – (by nature I’m like that even to-day) and wanted to be free on my own. Despite my resistance, I was given fair amount of teachings in most subjects of primary schooling. Later I was asked to attend school, only during my stay in my grandparent’s house along with my mother. I was only 3 or 4 years young.
One day, it poured, and visibility was very poor and I ventured out to see everything under the rain and went to school soaking wet.
No plastic paper to wrap my slate, no umbrella above my head. There were so many children along with me leading to school. Half-way thru’ I saw a canal deep enough to wet me to my knees and we crossed it wetting ourselves. Then as we walked along the path way – made between the lands meant for cultivating rice - a foot in width, there came a large RED LOTUS pond and a flooding river of sizable magnitude.
Here, I was caught unaware and nearly drowned but saved by fellow children who were taller than me. All the children and some teachers were from our neighbor-hood. They respected my grand parents and so was my status among them – as they also considered me as their own child.
Here I had to mention one interesting incident. The house had dog named BOW BOW- or that’s how I addressed the loyal animal. He was behind me at the start and I did not see him following me.
Bowbow, was quietly following me up-to the school and then disappeared. Later upon return I saw him running to me as I approached the gate. I hated dogs especially when they come close with an intention of licking me around. But Bow bow was not like that; he will run below my knee around me many times and sit down staring me with its tail waging always.
I saw him only during two of my vacations. Later during my third one, I was told, some one had poisoned him and so Bow bow, disappeared for ever. There were new dogs in the house, but I could not interact with any of them the way I did with Bow bow.
Many days, in the early hours, my grandmother will take me (I walked with her) along with my cousins, to the neighbor’s house to fetch milk. Even though, there were cows in the house, the milk was not enough for all. Also, some times one of the cow was about to give birth to a calf and there is shortage of milk.
The neighbors were mostly Christians besides Hindus. They were very good people, most being agriculturists and few being school teachers.
Later, I wanted to go with my grandmother to a particular vendor’s house. His name is VELLAI THOMAI – meaning White colored Thomas. Mr.Thomas was the only person in the area with White skin and there were so many with name Thomas, hence was identified so.
His house had a well grown Custard apple tree. I was very fond of this fruit and Thomas often gave it to me and I wanted more to be given to my cousins.
In other places, I got Cashew nut fruits on the condition that the nut is given to the owner. Please note that the Cashew nut is more expensive than the fruit. The fruits were of different colors and I chose the red ones.
There were other places in the neighborhood. My maternal Grand father was a reputed person and his own cousins, were living in the vicinity. Many were also residing in Trichur settled in different parts of the town.
I can remember few – Mr.P.S.Neelakanta Iyer – Who owned PSN bus service, others only by their affiliation of products or service. Like: Nadavarambu Krishna Brothers, Kamala Vilas Eye care products, Buffalo Milk vendor Mr.Mani Iyer, Pathan’s café owner, Sriram Mills owner, I.G.Srinivasa Iyer, Africa Viswanathan. Many I visited were of greater importance to my Grand father’s family.
Besides these people, there lived few aunties and uncles of my mother, all within walking distance. I got instant recognition as my mother is the only female in the family and was more influential than any one else in the family.
There were few on the main road side. They include my Maternal Grand-father’s elder brother Mr.Subramani Iyer and family.
There was retired Controller of Kerala State, owner of Tile factory, and many more.
In short, all my relatives and friends in the village of my mother were of affection, love and care taking people.
In my next part, I shall tell you, of my Paternal Grand parents who lived in the town named North Parur, close to Alwaye.
Friday, March 6, 2009
Child Hood: How it all began:
I can remember some incidents only from around 5 or 6 years young. At times, I get some shadow sort of vague images of the past. As I kept on thinking several times in my life as to how all it began and why am I here in this world.
Later in life a colleague of mine told me, that, if any one can continue to think about his past going backward from where has he , reached, will certainly find his / her past.
I could see my inter-action with my mother, neighbors and sister as of 1954 5 years and 5 months young. I can still remember the house owner Mrs.Thankam mani, her daughter and my class mate Radha, the domestic servant Mokambi and my aunty who lived in the next street. ( my mother never encouraged me to visit her as both were out-laws towards each other rather than in-laws by relation.
I can remember attending the farewell party given to my father, on 7th May 1954 – as there is a photo taken during this function. I saw my father in his kaki trousers and shirt wearing a tough hat to suit this attire. The hat was round and formed a rib to give shadow to the user. It also had a fine strip of leather to fasten it below the lower jaw.
Some where in this year, before we moved (to Waynad in Kerala) I saw the famous car festival of kalpathi village courtesy my uncle Mr.Narayanaswamy ( will be referred as Papa mama in future).
I also remember, the domestic servant Mokambi having taken me to console at times when my parents were upsetting each other. My mother never left me alone and whenever I made her life miserable, she will threaten to leave me, and go away for ever. But I will tender my apologies and some how clung to her not letting her go away from me.
Later in my years, I clarified with my mother, why she is so much affectionate to me. Then she told me the following, with tears in her yes.
My mother was pregnant in the year 1948, with me in her belly, and, all in the family were expecting a nice baby to be born in that year. The excitement was simply because, no child was born in the family for long and it was common in a family to welcome a new born with fanfare.
As the days passed, my mother was left in her parent’s house for delivering the baby and to remain for few more months with post delivery care. The house hold had grand parents, an elderly aunt (sister of my maternal grandfather) school going uncles, and one employed as local village office employee. There were, so many workers engaged for farm duties and looking after other activities.
There was a washer woman, called VANNATHI KUNJI (meaning washer woman by name Kunji). Besides there were other trades men or associates for the family – Raman Vaidhyyan,( family doctor), and priest to conduct all poojas and religious functions plus an astrologer – by name Damodaran.
So, there were enough people to tender to my mother. Here I have to say few words about my maternal grandmother( as I learned about her by observing while taking vacations in the later years).My maternal grandparents were addressed as Chithappa and Chithi – as addressed by his elder brothers children who also lived next door.So, all in the family addressed the same way. This practice made me not to address any of my real chithappas as such. Therefore, even to-day if some one says chithappa, my thoughts, travels to imagine my maternal grandfather.
My maternal grandmother is the best woman ever born in this world, and there is none, to match her in any manner whatsoever. Named as Arunthathi alias Thankam( Gold) – living gold. She was a very patient lady bearing every-ones demands and putting up-with all sorts of situations. My grand mother was a very kind person, to all in the family and a very pious lady as well. Will, tell more about her, as I write more about my childhood in the days ahead.
It all happened within a matter of few hours, that my mother gave birth to me TWO MONTHS prior to due date of delivering me.( My mother told me that Iam always in a hurry and that’s why came to this world two months earlier??!!)
In those days, there were no ICUs, no incubators, nor any competent lady doctors close by. It was my grandmother, washer woman Kunji and few other ladies who were in action with anxiety in getting me into this world. There was trouble, as I could not be handled safely. They used the tender banana tree skins to hold me in the palm. Milk was fed into my mouth using a fine thread soaked in the boiled cow milk as my mother had no milk to offer to me. There was lack of lactation!
But, there was God available to the prayer by all to save me and extend my life as long as possible to nourish and sustain in the days ahead. All prayed to Lord Krishna – watching the events from Guruvayoor- to spare my life. My mother offered me to God alive and agreed to look after me as HIS son. So many promises were made to all Demy Gods to give me life.
My paternal Grandfather – despite a reputed astrologer himself, could not confirm if I ever will survive the premature birth. Hence put a question mark on my horoscope.
After few months of my birth, I was taken to Guruvayoor and left in the entrance of the temple. Some old lady took me away. My parents paid a price to take me/ adopt me as God’s baby and to look-after thereafter. This is how my life was spared and so my mother always stayed closer to me.
V.Sivasubramaniam
Will continue again
I can remember some incidents only from around 5 or 6 years young. At times, I get some shadow sort of vague images of the past. As I kept on thinking several times in my life as to how all it began and why am I here in this world.
Later in life a colleague of mine told me, that, if any one can continue to think about his past going backward from where has he , reached, will certainly find his / her past.
I could see my inter-action with my mother, neighbors and sister as of 1954 5 years and 5 months young. I can still remember the house owner Mrs.Thankam mani, her daughter and my class mate Radha, the domestic servant Mokambi and my aunty who lived in the next street. ( my mother never encouraged me to visit her as both were out-laws towards each other rather than in-laws by relation.
I can remember attending the farewell party given to my father, on 7th May 1954 – as there is a photo taken during this function. I saw my father in his kaki trousers and shirt wearing a tough hat to suit this attire. The hat was round and formed a rib to give shadow to the user. It also had a fine strip of leather to fasten it below the lower jaw.
Some where in this year, before we moved (to Waynad in Kerala) I saw the famous car festival of kalpathi village courtesy my uncle Mr.Narayanaswamy ( will be referred as Papa mama in future).
I also remember, the domestic servant Mokambi having taken me to console at times when my parents were upsetting each other. My mother never left me alone and whenever I made her life miserable, she will threaten to leave me, and go away for ever. But I will tender my apologies and some how clung to her not letting her go away from me.
Later in my years, I clarified with my mother, why she is so much affectionate to me. Then she told me the following, with tears in her yes.
My mother was pregnant in the year 1948, with me in her belly, and, all in the family were expecting a nice baby to be born in that year. The excitement was simply because, no child was born in the family for long and it was common in a family to welcome a new born with fanfare.
As the days passed, my mother was left in her parent’s house for delivering the baby and to remain for few more months with post delivery care. The house hold had grand parents, an elderly aunt (sister of my maternal grandfather) school going uncles, and one employed as local village office employee. There were, so many workers engaged for farm duties and looking after other activities.
There was a washer woman, called VANNATHI KUNJI (meaning washer woman by name Kunji). Besides there were other trades men or associates for the family – Raman Vaidhyyan,( family doctor), and priest to conduct all poojas and religious functions plus an astrologer – by name Damodaran.
So, there were enough people to tender to my mother. Here I have to say few words about my maternal grandmother( as I learned about her by observing while taking vacations in the later years).My maternal grandparents were addressed as Chithappa and Chithi – as addressed by his elder brothers children who also lived next door.So, all in the family addressed the same way. This practice made me not to address any of my real chithappas as such. Therefore, even to-day if some one says chithappa, my thoughts, travels to imagine my maternal grandfather.
My maternal grandmother is the best woman ever born in this world, and there is none, to match her in any manner whatsoever. Named as Arunthathi alias Thankam( Gold) – living gold. She was a very patient lady bearing every-ones demands and putting up-with all sorts of situations. My grand mother was a very kind person, to all in the family and a very pious lady as well. Will, tell more about her, as I write more about my childhood in the days ahead.
It all happened within a matter of few hours, that my mother gave birth to me TWO MONTHS prior to due date of delivering me.( My mother told me that Iam always in a hurry and that’s why came to this world two months earlier??!!)
In those days, there were no ICUs, no incubators, nor any competent lady doctors close by. It was my grandmother, washer woman Kunji and few other ladies who were in action with anxiety in getting me into this world. There was trouble, as I could not be handled safely. They used the tender banana tree skins to hold me in the palm. Milk was fed into my mouth using a fine thread soaked in the boiled cow milk as my mother had no milk to offer to me. There was lack of lactation!
But, there was God available to the prayer by all to save me and extend my life as long as possible to nourish and sustain in the days ahead. All prayed to Lord Krishna – watching the events from Guruvayoor- to spare my life. My mother offered me to God alive and agreed to look after me as HIS son. So many promises were made to all Demy Gods to give me life.
My paternal Grandfather – despite a reputed astrologer himself, could not confirm if I ever will survive the premature birth. Hence put a question mark on my horoscope.
After few months of my birth, I was taken to Guruvayoor and left in the entrance of the temple. Some old lady took me away. My parents paid a price to take me/ adopt me as God’s baby and to look-after thereafter. This is how my life was spared and so my mother always stayed closer to me.
V.Sivasubramaniam
Will continue again
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Offering Ayush’s Hair to Lord Siva at Vaikam
Belief and Custom:
It is age old belief that offering of ones hair to God helps to ward off evil and bad spirits.
The basic truth is that, for a child, the hair born with, is not clean and full of stuff that makes it twisted or makes knots over period of first 12 months. Also, it is not possible to put pressure on new born babies’ head as the head is very tender in nature. So, it becomes necessary, to get rid of the hair which form shapes like rope, flat bunch, or some kind of formation sticking to each string of hair.
It is a natural tendency; in any human being not to act on anything unless an importance is attached to God of ones own belief / family.
So, in the name of faith and belief of ones own tradition in the family, most people vow to offer the babies’ hair (once the head becomes a safe for shaving the hair off) within 12 to 18 months of age.
So, it was decided that Ayush’s hair will be offered to Lord Siva at Vaikam. Lord Siva at Vaikam is family deity of Mr.Krishnan.
We could have offered the same to any of our Gods worshiped at different towns of Tamil Nadu as all places are of equal importance.
We wanted to do this, on 26-2-09. This date and Day was chosen, as Sheeba and Ananth, could take leave, his parents could come, and above all, I was also available – did not go abroad as thought earlier – with Sarojam.
Sheeba, arranged railway tickets for us (Self and wife Mrs.Sarojam) to join them on the way and return after the ceremony.
Ananth’s, parents, sheeba and Ayush left Bangalore around 17.30 hrs on 25-2-09 by KOCHUVELLI express.
We joined them at 00.35 hrs(on 26-2-09) in Coimbatore, all in the same coach but at different berths. Met Mr.and Mrs. Krishnan briefly and played with Ayush for a while and retired to bed.
By about 04.45 AM we reached Ernakulum Railway station – closest railway station to Vaikam. All of us got down and came out trying to find a suitable transport to Vaikam. We could not find any organized transport system. Most were demanding anything from Rs.500 to 600. The taxi and three wheeler drivers were doing their best to rip off passengers as Government services were not available at this early hour from Railway station.( To Vaikam)
We managed to find a three wheeler driver, who had a wider vehicle and agreed to take us to Vaikam for Rs.350.00 with a condition that I sit near the driver sharing his seat. This is a kind of a risk factor which I agreed under the conditions.
We left at 5.30AM and Reached (Southern side of the Vaikam temple) by 6.15 AM.
We had THREE rooms booked in a nearby Inn (Kailas Hotel) for accommodating us for the day. (Rate per room was Rs.200.00) Rooms have small double bed, and an attached bathroom, having a space to take bath (A bucket and a mug was kept - no shower) and a cornered washbasin to some how wipe the face. You have to stand in a particular angle to see your face. Expecting this kind of situation, I had my shave the previous night- before leaving for this trip)
In the bed room, there was a table, metal chair and mirror with most of its mercury faded due to frequent wash with water. Over the mirror was a strip of cloth hanger suitable for hanging a small hand kerchief. We got clean bed sheet to cover the dirty bed. The pillows were of a special color shade with fragrance of all available hair oils of the previous users.
The good thing is no one bothers about this, as most are using the room for a quick wash before going to the temple plus for safe keeping of their belongings that are not needed for/ during the worship.
We had our barber arranged for wiping the hair of Ayush. We expected a revolutionary act by Ayush, like, any child will not accept some one playing on their head especially with a knife.
By grace of God, the whole act was over with Ayush resisting tirelessly the barber’s act of utmost cruelty. We all made different gestures, sang songs, acted funny to cool the temper of poor Ayush. I could not stand this cruelty to my grandson and briefly kept away from the closeness.
We all had our wash / bath beside’s Ayush having a wipe – no hot water either in the bath rooms.
When Ayush looked at his newborn head, on the mirror, he shouted in utter dismay and wondered where all his hair has gone. Ayush then laughed at his reflected face with a shiny head.
Finally, we went to the temple using the WEST side gate. By now Ayush has become normal. All relevant poojas were done to Lord Siva for the betterment of all in the family – starting with AYUSH.
We had to go to the temple of Lord Muruga in the nearby town – Uthayanpuram. We wanted to have something to fill the stomach. Fortunately, there was a vegetarian Hotel next to our lodge.
We could get Vada and Iddily for breakfast. We did not have any liquid as coffee was not available there. They only serve tea at all times.
Then we hired a large three wheeler to Muruga temple. Here also, we arranged relevant poojas. We then returned to Siva temple, to carry THULABARAM. This is to offer fruits, flower or the kind of items to Lord Siva equal to the weight of the person who has taken such a vow. Here it is Ayush to be weighed for offering bananas totaling his weight.
Here Ayush was cheerful and happy to stay on one side of the balance while bananas were loaded on the other (pan).side.
Please note that we also arranged to explode fire cracker (A kind of mini bomb to ward of evil) in the name of all family members. Of course, we had to pay for it, as it is to be made and set-off safely. Ayush could bear the noise while Sheeba could not!!
OBSERVATION: I noticed that every one took their pair of foot-wear inside the temple complex and left it close to the entrance of the temple itself. Some carried it inside a bag into the temple and retained it during worship!! The so called clean people of Kerala have allowed this unhygienic act without any shame. May Lord Siva bless them all? We left behind our foot-wears in the room itself and walked bare-foot to the temple.
We came back to our room by 11.00 AM. Then, decided to take rest till 1.30 PM and leave for Ernakulum to take train back to Coimbatore.
I tried to put my body to rest for a while. Within a short time, I could feel itching activity on my back. Though the bed sheet was new, the bed below it was too dirty. As far I could think, neither there is a detergent that can clean it nor there is chemical to disinfect it.
After some time, the itching disappeared, as my system went to sleep overcoming this itching activity by bed bugs or some kind of bacteria’s. It is better to say that my system became immune to these painful stings.
I got up by 1.15PM, and reminded everyone to be up and ready for return journry.
Then, all started packing their belongings, made up for the lost facial make-up, and we came out on the road out-side looking for a three wheeler to the local Government bus-stop.
This is due to the fact that our effort failed to locate an economical mode of transport to Ernakulum.
We reached the bus-stop by 14.15 hrs and, immediately got a bust to Ernakulum.
We reached the destination, exactly after an hour. Then we hired three wheelers to a restaurant close to the railway station. The meals time in any Hotel in this are is limited to 15.00Hrs only besides, nothing is served till 5PM.
Fortunately, this Hotel was serving snacks after the lunch hour. So, we all had snacks and coffee. For we six, the bill came to Rs.275.00 including one branded mineral water bottle.
I had my own doubt about the train if it will stop in the station we were close-by. The reason is, there are TWO Ernakulum stations named Ernakulum town (North and South). So, self and Mr.Krishnan went there and enquired about it and clarified our doubts.
Fortunately, this was the station from where; we have to board the train. Therefore, we walked to the station, an hour before its arrival.
While sitting on the platform (No.1) we could see few t.v monitors propagating products of various brands and application. Along the side, could also hear announcements related to arriving and departing trains.
I decided to procure some news papers, as I never had the chance to find out about what happened in the previous day. Procured, English daily- The Hindu. Tamil daily- Dinamalar and another one named NRI times – published from Mumbai.
We all read the newspapers and moved closer to the possible location of our coach (No.4) likely to be stopping upon arrival of the train.
The train came on time,(17.50 hrs.) and the coach no.4 was few feet away from us and we all boarded without much difficulty. Soon after it designated stop time, the train started moving and gained speed as if the next stop is ours.
The usual crowd was there besides the mosquitoes and insects. I was particular about a clean seat for our grandson Ayush. (In his first travel when Ayush was only 6 weeks, we had to safeguard him from rats in the reservation compartment from Bangalore to Coimbatore). We kept wiping his hands frequently with disinfectants to prevent ctaching any infection – courtesy of our Railways.
At this point I want to say few words about our Railway services. Compartments are not kept to the basic cleanliness, there is plenty of dust every where, toilets are horrible, and dirty, outer glass panels of most A/C coaches are cracked and covered with tapes, windows cannot be closed up-to its base. We Indians are very good travelers, ignoring all these unsightly things plus at times pay a heavy bribe to occupy a seat if required.
Our Railway employees never fail to agitate( two to three times a year minimum) for higher grade, higher salary and promotion on seniority basis despite the failure of their responsibilities for which they are already paid huge salaries and wages but never carry it our properly.
The area around any railway JUNCTION in India is NOT KEPT CLEAN at all! Litter everywhere around the station. The tracks are dirty around, pipes and cables let loose, without proper termination. Cargoes are thrown out on platforms and some are partly unpacked. It is a pity that despite being the second most populous country, we cannot find persons to keep our railways clean.
In the compartment, we interacted with fellow passengers who were also going to places in the same direction.
We reached Coimbatore around 10.45PM.Managed to get a call taxi home for Rs.135.00( Higher by Rs.15.00 against our regular cab service.)
We, at one point to have dinner on the way home but decided against it as I felt the available food could be of stale in nature, besides, my wife had made paste for dosas the previous day.
We reached home by 11.20 PM and immediately set the house in order – opened all windows for fresh air, switched ON fans, and maintained necessary lights.
After having dosas (heavy ones made of combination of all lentils and rice.)
We went to bed by mid-night – thinking of the next three of rest for Ayush.
NOTE:
The trip was peaceful in general, gave us the insight of things around a new place if we have to venture again similarly, and above all the prevailing cost of travel and tours. Noticed that money was the main attraction and people will go for it ruthlessly – especially cab drivers, porters, and wayside vendors. General public is also not much keen about questioning these conditions as they all are in a hurry to take the next step in their effort to reach their goal / destination.
WHO IS WHO:
Self: V.Sivasubramaniam. Mr.Ananth: My son-in-law, Mr.and Mrs. Krishnan: Ananth’s Parents.
Sheeba: My daughter. Ayush:My Grandson, and My wife Mrs.K.S.Sarojam
Belief and Custom:
It is age old belief that offering of ones hair to God helps to ward off evil and bad spirits.
The basic truth is that, for a child, the hair born with, is not clean and full of stuff that makes it twisted or makes knots over period of first 12 months. Also, it is not possible to put pressure on new born babies’ head as the head is very tender in nature. So, it becomes necessary, to get rid of the hair which form shapes like rope, flat bunch, or some kind of formation sticking to each string of hair.
It is a natural tendency; in any human being not to act on anything unless an importance is attached to God of ones own belief / family.
So, in the name of faith and belief of ones own tradition in the family, most people vow to offer the babies’ hair (once the head becomes a safe for shaving the hair off) within 12 to 18 months of age.
So, it was decided that Ayush’s hair will be offered to Lord Siva at Vaikam. Lord Siva at Vaikam is family deity of Mr.Krishnan.
We could have offered the same to any of our Gods worshiped at different towns of Tamil Nadu as all places are of equal importance.
We wanted to do this, on 26-2-09. This date and Day was chosen, as Sheeba and Ananth, could take leave, his parents could come, and above all, I was also available – did not go abroad as thought earlier – with Sarojam.
Sheeba, arranged railway tickets for us (Self and wife Mrs.Sarojam) to join them on the way and return after the ceremony.
Ananth’s, parents, sheeba and Ayush left Bangalore around 17.30 hrs on 25-2-09 by KOCHUVELLI express.
We joined them at 00.35 hrs(on 26-2-09) in Coimbatore, all in the same coach but at different berths. Met Mr.and Mrs. Krishnan briefly and played with Ayush for a while and retired to bed.
By about 04.45 AM we reached Ernakulum Railway station – closest railway station to Vaikam. All of us got down and came out trying to find a suitable transport to Vaikam. We could not find any organized transport system. Most were demanding anything from Rs.500 to 600. The taxi and three wheeler drivers were doing their best to rip off passengers as Government services were not available at this early hour from Railway station.( To Vaikam)
We managed to find a three wheeler driver, who had a wider vehicle and agreed to take us to Vaikam for Rs.350.00 with a condition that I sit near the driver sharing his seat. This is a kind of a risk factor which I agreed under the conditions.
We left at 5.30AM and Reached (Southern side of the Vaikam temple) by 6.15 AM.
We had THREE rooms booked in a nearby Inn (Kailas Hotel) for accommodating us for the day. (Rate per room was Rs.200.00) Rooms have small double bed, and an attached bathroom, having a space to take bath (A bucket and a mug was kept - no shower) and a cornered washbasin to some how wipe the face. You have to stand in a particular angle to see your face. Expecting this kind of situation, I had my shave the previous night- before leaving for this trip)
In the bed room, there was a table, metal chair and mirror with most of its mercury faded due to frequent wash with water. Over the mirror was a strip of cloth hanger suitable for hanging a small hand kerchief. We got clean bed sheet to cover the dirty bed. The pillows were of a special color shade with fragrance of all available hair oils of the previous users.
The good thing is no one bothers about this, as most are using the room for a quick wash before going to the temple plus for safe keeping of their belongings that are not needed for/ during the worship.
We had our barber arranged for wiping the hair of Ayush. We expected a revolutionary act by Ayush, like, any child will not accept some one playing on their head especially with a knife.
By grace of God, the whole act was over with Ayush resisting tirelessly the barber’s act of utmost cruelty. We all made different gestures, sang songs, acted funny to cool the temper of poor Ayush. I could not stand this cruelty to my grandson and briefly kept away from the closeness.
We all had our wash / bath beside’s Ayush having a wipe – no hot water either in the bath rooms.
When Ayush looked at his newborn head, on the mirror, he shouted in utter dismay and wondered where all his hair has gone. Ayush then laughed at his reflected face with a shiny head.
Finally, we went to the temple using the WEST side gate. By now Ayush has become normal. All relevant poojas were done to Lord Siva for the betterment of all in the family – starting with AYUSH.
We had to go to the temple of Lord Muruga in the nearby town – Uthayanpuram. We wanted to have something to fill the stomach. Fortunately, there was a vegetarian Hotel next to our lodge.
We could get Vada and Iddily for breakfast. We did not have any liquid as coffee was not available there. They only serve tea at all times.
Then we hired a large three wheeler to Muruga temple. Here also, we arranged relevant poojas. We then returned to Siva temple, to carry THULABARAM. This is to offer fruits, flower or the kind of items to Lord Siva equal to the weight of the person who has taken such a vow. Here it is Ayush to be weighed for offering bananas totaling his weight.
Here Ayush was cheerful and happy to stay on one side of the balance while bananas were loaded on the other (pan).side.
Please note that we also arranged to explode fire cracker (A kind of mini bomb to ward of evil) in the name of all family members. Of course, we had to pay for it, as it is to be made and set-off safely. Ayush could bear the noise while Sheeba could not!!
OBSERVATION: I noticed that every one took their pair of foot-wear inside the temple complex and left it close to the entrance of the temple itself. Some carried it inside a bag into the temple and retained it during worship!! The so called clean people of Kerala have allowed this unhygienic act without any shame. May Lord Siva bless them all? We left behind our foot-wears in the room itself and walked bare-foot to the temple.
We came back to our room by 11.00 AM. Then, decided to take rest till 1.30 PM and leave for Ernakulum to take train back to Coimbatore.
I tried to put my body to rest for a while. Within a short time, I could feel itching activity on my back. Though the bed sheet was new, the bed below it was too dirty. As far I could think, neither there is a detergent that can clean it nor there is chemical to disinfect it.
After some time, the itching disappeared, as my system went to sleep overcoming this itching activity by bed bugs or some kind of bacteria’s. It is better to say that my system became immune to these painful stings.
I got up by 1.15PM, and reminded everyone to be up and ready for return journry.
Then, all started packing their belongings, made up for the lost facial make-up, and we came out on the road out-side looking for a three wheeler to the local Government bus-stop.
This is due to the fact that our effort failed to locate an economical mode of transport to Ernakulum.
We reached the bus-stop by 14.15 hrs and, immediately got a bust to Ernakulum.
We reached the destination, exactly after an hour. Then we hired three wheelers to a restaurant close to the railway station. The meals time in any Hotel in this are is limited to 15.00Hrs only besides, nothing is served till 5PM.
Fortunately, this Hotel was serving snacks after the lunch hour. So, we all had snacks and coffee. For we six, the bill came to Rs.275.00 including one branded mineral water bottle.
I had my own doubt about the train if it will stop in the station we were close-by. The reason is, there are TWO Ernakulum stations named Ernakulum town (North and South). So, self and Mr.Krishnan went there and enquired about it and clarified our doubts.
Fortunately, this was the station from where; we have to board the train. Therefore, we walked to the station, an hour before its arrival.
While sitting on the platform (No.1) we could see few t.v monitors propagating products of various brands and application. Along the side, could also hear announcements related to arriving and departing trains.
I decided to procure some news papers, as I never had the chance to find out about what happened in the previous day. Procured, English daily- The Hindu. Tamil daily- Dinamalar and another one named NRI times – published from Mumbai.
We all read the newspapers and moved closer to the possible location of our coach (No.4) likely to be stopping upon arrival of the train.
The train came on time,(17.50 hrs.) and the coach no.4 was few feet away from us and we all boarded without much difficulty. Soon after it designated stop time, the train started moving and gained speed as if the next stop is ours.
The usual crowd was there besides the mosquitoes and insects. I was particular about a clean seat for our grandson Ayush. (In his first travel when Ayush was only 6 weeks, we had to safeguard him from rats in the reservation compartment from Bangalore to Coimbatore). We kept wiping his hands frequently with disinfectants to prevent ctaching any infection – courtesy of our Railways.
At this point I want to say few words about our Railway services. Compartments are not kept to the basic cleanliness, there is plenty of dust every where, toilets are horrible, and dirty, outer glass panels of most A/C coaches are cracked and covered with tapes, windows cannot be closed up-to its base. We Indians are very good travelers, ignoring all these unsightly things plus at times pay a heavy bribe to occupy a seat if required.
Our Railway employees never fail to agitate( two to three times a year minimum) for higher grade, higher salary and promotion on seniority basis despite the failure of their responsibilities for which they are already paid huge salaries and wages but never carry it our properly.
The area around any railway JUNCTION in India is NOT KEPT CLEAN at all! Litter everywhere around the station. The tracks are dirty around, pipes and cables let loose, without proper termination. Cargoes are thrown out on platforms and some are partly unpacked. It is a pity that despite being the second most populous country, we cannot find persons to keep our railways clean.
In the compartment, we interacted with fellow passengers who were also going to places in the same direction.
We reached Coimbatore around 10.45PM.Managed to get a call taxi home for Rs.135.00( Higher by Rs.15.00 against our regular cab service.)
We, at one point to have dinner on the way home but decided against it as I felt the available food could be of stale in nature, besides, my wife had made paste for dosas the previous day.
We reached home by 11.20 PM and immediately set the house in order – opened all windows for fresh air, switched ON fans, and maintained necessary lights.
After having dosas (heavy ones made of combination of all lentils and rice.)
We went to bed by mid-night – thinking of the next three of rest for Ayush.
NOTE:
The trip was peaceful in general, gave us the insight of things around a new place if we have to venture again similarly, and above all the prevailing cost of travel and tours. Noticed that money was the main attraction and people will go for it ruthlessly – especially cab drivers, porters, and wayside vendors. General public is also not much keen about questioning these conditions as they all are in a hurry to take the next step in their effort to reach their goal / destination.
WHO IS WHO:
Self: V.Sivasubramaniam. Mr.Ananth: My son-in-law, Mr.and Mrs. Krishnan: Ananth’s Parents.
Sheeba: My daughter. Ayush:My Grandson, and My wife Mrs.K.S.Sarojam
Offering Ayush's Hair
My Grandsons's Mundan Ceremony
Offering Ayush’s Hair to Lord Siva at Vaikam
Belief and Custom:
It is age old belief that offering of ones hair to God helps to ward off evil and bad spirits.
The basic truth is that, for a child, the hair born with, is not clean and full of stuff that makes it twisted or makes knots over period of first 12 months. Also, it is not possible to put pressure on new born babies’ head as the head is very tender in nature. So, it becomes necessary, to get rid of the hair which form shapes like rope, flat bunch, or some kind of formation sticking to each string of hair.
It is a natural tendency; in any human being not to act on anything unless an importance is attached to God of ones own belief / family.
So, in the name of faith and belief of ones own tradition in the family, most people vow to offer the babies’ hair (once the head becomes a safe for shaving the hair off) within 12 to 18 months of age.
So, it was decided that Ayush’s hair will be offered to Lord Siva at Vaikam. Lord Siva at Vaikam is family deity of Mr.Krishnan.
We could have offered the same to any of our Gods worshiped at different towns of Tamil Nadu as all places are of equal importance.
We wanted to do this, on 26-2-09. This date and Day was chosen, as Sheeba and Ananth, could take leave, his parents could come, and above all, I was also available – did not go abroad as thought earlier – with Sarojam.
Sheeba, arranged railway tickets for us (Self and wife Mrs.Sarojam) to join them on the way and return after the ceremony.
Ananth’s, parents, sheeba and Ayush left Bangalore around 17.30 hrs on 25-2-09 by KOCHUVELLI express.
We joined them at 00.35 hrs(on 26-2-09) in Coimbatore, all in the same coach but at different berths. Met Mr.and Mrs. Krishnan briefly and played with Ayush for a while and retired to bed.
By about 04.45 AM we reached Ernakulum Railway station – closest railway station to Vaikam. All of us got down and came out trying to find a suitable transport to Vaikam. We could not find any organized transport system. Most were demanding anything from Rs.500 to 600. The taxi and three wheeler drivers were doing their best to rip off passengers as Government services were not available at this early hour from Railway station.( To Vaikam)
We managed to find a three wheeler driver, who had a wider vehicle and agreed to take us to Vaikam for Rs.350.00 with a condition that I sit near the driver sharing his seat. This is a kind of a risk factor which I agreed under the conditions.
We left at 5.30AM and Reached (Southern side of the Vaikam temple) by 6.15 AM.
We had THREE rooms booked in a nearby Inn (Kailas Hotel) for accommodating us for the day. (Rate per room was Rs.200.00) Rooms have small double bed, and an attached bathroom, having a space to take bath (A bucket and a mug was kept - no shower) and a cornered washbasin to some how wipe the face. You have to stand in a particular angle to see your face. Expecting this kind of situation, I had my shave the previous night- before leaving for this trip)
In the bed room, there was a table, metal chair and mirror with most of its mercury faded due to frequent wash with water. Over the mirror was a strip of cloth hanger suitable for hanging a small hand kerchief. We got clean bed sheet to cover the dirty bed. The pillows were of a special color shade with fragrance of all available hair oils of the previous users.
The good thing is no one bothers about this, as most are using the room for a quick wash before going to the temple plus for safe keeping of their belongings that are not needed for/ during the worship.
We had our barber arranged for wiping the hair of Ayush. We expected a revolutionary act by Ayush, like, any child will not accept some one playing on their head especially with a knife.
By grace of God, the whole act was over with Ayush resisting tirelessly the barber’s act of utmost cruelty. We all made different gestures, sang songs, acted funny to cool the temper of poor Ayush. I could not stand this cruelty to my grandson and briefly kept away from the closeness.
We all had our wash / bath beside’s Ayush having a wipe – no hot water either in the bath rooms.
When Ayush looked at his newborn head, on the mirror, he shouted in utter dismay and wondered where all his hair has gone. Ayush then laughed at his reflected face with a shiny head.
Finally, we went to the temple using the WEST side gate. By now Ayush has become normal. All relevant poojas were done to Lord Siva for the betterment of all in the family – starting with AYUSH.
We had to go to the temple of Lord Muruga in the nearby town – Uthayanpuram. We wanted to have something to fill the stomach. Fortunately, there was a vegetarian Hotel next to our lodge.
We could get Vada and Iddily for breakfast. We did not have any liquid as coffee was not available there. They only serve tea at all times.
Then we hired a large three wheeler to Muruga temple. Here also, we arranged relevant poojas. We then returned to Siva temple, to carry THULABARAM. This is to offer fruits, flower or the kind of items to Lord Siva equal to the weight of the person who has taken such a vow. Here it is Ayush to be weighed for offering bananas totaling his weight.
Here Ayush was cheerful and happy to stay on one side of the balance while bananas were loaded on the other (pan).side.
Please note that we also arranged to explode fire cracker (A kind of mini bomb to ward of evil) in the name of all family members. Of course, we had to pay for it, as it is to be made and set-off safely. Ayush could bear the noise while Sheeba could not!!
OBSERVATION: I noticed that every one took their pair of foot-wear inside the temple complex and left it close to the entrance of the temple itself. Some carried it inside a bag into the temple and retained it during worship!! The so called clean people of Kerala have allowed this unhygienic act without any shame. May Lord Siva bless them all? We left behind our foot-wears in the room itself and walked bare-foot to the temple.
We came back to our room by 11.00 AM. Then, decided to take rest till 1.30 PM and leave for Ernakulum to take train back to Coimbatore.
I tried to put my body to rest for a while. Within a short time, I could feel itching activity on my back. Though the bed sheet was new, the bed below it was too dirty. As far I could think, neither there is a detergent that can clean it nor there is chemical to disinfect it.
After some time, the itching disappeared, as my system went to sleep overcoming this itching activity by bed bugs or some kind of bacteria’s. It is better to say that my system became immune to these painful stings.
I got up by 1.15PM, and reminded everyone to be up and ready for return journry.
Then, all started packing their belongings, made up for the lost facial make-up, and we came out on the road out-side looking for a three wheeler to the local Government bus-stop.
This is due to the fact that our effort failed to locate an economical mode of transport to Ernakulum.
We reached the bus-stop by 14.15 hrs and, immediately got a bust to Ernakulum.
We reached the destination, exactly after an hour. Then we hired three wheelers to a restaurant close to the railway station. The meals time in any Hotel in this are is limited to 15.00Hrs only besides, nothing is served till 5PM.
Fortunately, this Hotel was serving snacks after the lunch hour. So, we all had snacks and coffee. For we six, the bill came to Rs.275.00 including one branded mineral water bottle.
I had my own doubt about the train if it will stop in the station we were close-by. The reason is, there are TWO Ernakulum stations named Ernakulum town (North and South). So, self and Mr.Krishnan went there and enquired about it and clarified our doubts.
Fortunately, this was the station from where; we have to board the train. Therefore, we walked to the station, an hour before its arrival.
While sitting on the platform (No.1) we could see few t.v monitors propagating products of various brands and application. Along the side, could also hear announcements related to arriving and departing trains.
I decided to procure some news papers, as I never had the chance to find out about what happened in the previous day. Procured, English daily- The Hindu. Tamil daily- Dinamalar and another one named NRI times – published from Mumbai.
We all read the newspapers and moved closer to the possible location of our coach (No.4) likely to be stopping upon arrival of the train.
The train came on time,(17.50 hrs.) and the coach no.4 was few feet away from us and we all boarded without much difficulty. Soon after it designated stop time, the train started moving and gained speed as if the next stop is ours.
The usual crowd was there besides the mosquitoes and insects. I was particular about a clean seat for our grandson Ayush. (In his first travel when Ayush was only 6 weeks, we had to safeguard him from rats in the reservation compartment from Bangalore to Coimbatore). We kept wiping his hands frequently with disinfectants to prevent ctaching any infection – courtesy of our Railways.
At this point I want to say few words about our Railway services. Compartments are not kept to the basic cleanliness, there is plenty of dust every where, toilets are horrible, and dirty, outer glass panels of most A/C coaches are cracked and covered with tapes, windows cannot be closed up-to its base. We Indians are very good travelers, ignoring all these unsightly things plus at times pay a heavy bribe to occupy a seat if required.
Our Railway employees never fail to agitate( two to three times a year minimum) for higher grade, higher salary and promotion on seniority basis despite the failure of their responsibilities for which they are already paid huge salaries and wages but never carry it our properly.
The area around any railway JUNCTION in India is NOT KEPT CLEAN at all! Litter everywhere around the station. The tracks are dirty around, pipes and cables let loose, without proper termination. Cargoes are thrown out on platforms and some are partly unpacked. It is a pity that despite being the second most populous country, we cannot find persons to keep our railways clean.
In the compartment, we interacted with fellow passengers who were also going to places in the same direction.
We reached Coimbatore around 10.45PM.Managed to get a call taxi home for Rs.135.00( Higher by Rs.15.00 against our regular cab service.)
We, at one point to have dinner on the way home but decided against it as I felt the available food could be of stale in nature, besides, my wife had made paste for dosas the previous day.
We reached home by 11.20 PM and immediately set the house in order – opened all windows for fresh air, switched ON fans, and maintained necessary lights.
After having dosas (heavy ones made of combination of all lentils and rice.)
We went to bed by mid-night – thinking of the next three of rest for Ayush.
NOTE:
The trip was peaceful in general, gave us the insight of things around a new place if we have to venture again similarly, and above all the prevailing cost of travel and tours. Noticed that money was the main attraction and people will go for it ruthlessly – especially cab drivers, porters, and wayside vendors. General public is also not much keen about questioning these conditions as they all are in a hurry to take the next step in their effort to reach their goal / destination.
WHO IS WHO:
Self: V.Sivasubramaniam. Mr.Ananth: My son-in-law, Mr.and Mrs. Krishnan: Ananth’s Parents.
Sheeba: My daughter. Ayush:My Grandson, and My wife Mrs.K.S.Sarojam
Childhood days
The days of my childhood were far more diffrent and difficult than being experienced by the present generation.
Everything, had some kind of principle, set rules and above all attached to parents guidance, besides the teachers.
There was a kind of discpline attached to every activity. Early rise- 4.30AM, take bath( no showers) pray to God,study the relevant books before going to school etc;
The class teachers were responsible for the improvement on performance of students and questionable by the Head Master.
Therefore, every one was responsible for their share of duty.
Progress was definite and steady. One has to learn, see their elders( in any profession) and aim to become better by hard work.
Therefore, a new teacher at entry level,one with 5 years experience, asst. Headmaster and Headmaster were all diffrent in their own set up as, each ones living conditions were due to their hard work only.
The facilities of all these cadre were reflecting their proportin of betterment.Now a days, all want say for example- 42" T.V irrespective of their position, salary and the work responsibility.
It is evident, that a person with minimum salary is not comparable to his 25 years senior who has to his credit more salary and so on.
Hard work related progress has long disappeared, and most people want everything at their disposal immediately without working / earning for it.
-Will be continued
Everything, had some kind of principle, set rules and above all attached to parents guidance, besides the teachers.
There was a kind of discpline attached to every activity. Early rise- 4.30AM, take bath( no showers) pray to God,study the relevant books before going to school etc;
The class teachers were responsible for the improvement on performance of students and questionable by the Head Master.
Therefore, every one was responsible for their share of duty.
Progress was definite and steady. One has to learn, see their elders( in any profession) and aim to become better by hard work.
Therefore, a new teacher at entry level,one with 5 years experience, asst. Headmaster and Headmaster were all diffrent in their own set up as, each ones living conditions were due to their hard work only.
The facilities of all these cadre were reflecting their proportin of betterment.Now a days, all want say for example- 42" T.V irrespective of their position, salary and the work responsibility.
It is evident, that a person with minimum salary is not comparable to his 25 years senior who has to his credit more salary and so on.
Hard work related progress has long disappeared, and most people want everything at their disposal immediately without working / earning for it.
-Will be continued
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