Another memorable trip to Kolazhi Village My birthplace
This was my fourth trip in 16 months – never visited so frequently in the previous years, except during school / college days.
The occasion is – Balan Mamas’ birthday, and gathering of other family members. So, I decided to attend the function.
We only had returned from Bangalore – after attending AYUSH’s second birthday – the previous afternoon. But, decided to leave for Kolazhi in the early hours of 27-2-10.
I got up as usual at 4AM on this day, and called the CALL Taxi Company, only to learn that no taxi is available. This is despite my reservation made on the previous night. So, we had to speed up our routines, as we could only get a bus to the stop. After completing all routines, we started walking at 5.10 AM towards the bus top. We waited for 10 minites. Luckily, managed to spot a three wheeler and hired it to reach Thiruvalluvar Bus stop by 5.40 AM I saw a sizable crowd near the booking counter and realized that it was Saturday – a rushing day for holiday travelers.
I had to book TWO seats in the next leaving KSRTC by paying Rs.10.00. Managed to get seats numbered 36 and 37. There was initial confusion, as the seat no. was on the back of each seat. Many thought the nos. indicated the seat in front of the nos. Then we managed- after seeing the first seat and its sequence which confirmed the actual location related to the number marked.
The conductor was grim faced and rough in his attitude, demanding each one to buy ticket – instead of the courteous way of asking. After all it is KSRTC and one cannot expect decency from most drivers and conductors. We paid Rs.66 per ticket up to Trichur.
We could have opted for another Luxury bus - @Rs.200 each, but stopping about 20 KM away from Kolazhi- as it was going to Guruvayoor, leaving Coimbatore at 6 AM. This could upset our reaching the venue on time- before 9.30 AM. So, we took the KSRTC bus.
In my earlier trip I had no problem in getting a seat – in the same route bus leaving at 6AM- as the day was a working day and very few people seeking to go for a trip.
We reached Trichur and took a three-wheeler to our village. On the way we procured some fruits for the elders. Our vehicle could not pass thru’ the normal route from the main road as new tarmac was being prepared. The alternate route was a parallel one but was also found to be very narrow and learned that this too was blocked with pebbles.
The other choice was to go round about – twice the distance and hence decided to cross the paddy fields across our house.
The driver dropped us at the edge of the field. This route was taken by me several times during my vacation and so I did not find it unusual. But, Saro found it to be little inconvenience, as she had to step into water wetting few inches of her golden feet. But joyfully, we reached home in few minutes and were there precisely at 9.28 AM.
The first phase of the function was ON and about to go for break(fast). We were welcomed and greeted by aunties and cousins. I changed over to standard dhotis (two piece attire). The priests had breakfast before the rest of us had our turn.
We met our cousins- Subramanian from Bombay( met him during Sheeba’s wedding), Kannan,( met him several years ago) from Bombay, Girija and Ramakrishnan from Bangalore and those in-house.
During break fast, we spoke quickly of day-to day and familiar matters of mutual interest. Later the function continued and ended by 2PM. I took some snaps, besides making moves around the house.
There were references to Poonal function that was held in Coimbatore on 17/18 of February- for Sachu and Viji’s sons. We did not attend due to prevailing situation in the family. Papa Mama, Girija, and Raman Mami seem to have attended the function on invitation.
We were asked to stay back for the evening function as well, but requested them to relieve us by afternoon itself.
We decided to return home by 4PM after having a quick cup of coffee. Aunty gave us idly and side dishes for us to save our time in making dinner after reaching Coimbatore.
My cousin, Venkadi, suggested taking KERALA EXPRESS from Trichur to Coimbatore, if no KSRTC bus was available. The family auto driver took us to KSRTC stand and, I found that no bus was available and the previous bus also has not reached there. So, sensing trouble, we decided to travel by train, especially when we have no luggage and free to travel.
The ticket was also cheaper by 16 rupees per person and I paid only Rs.100 for us. There were many people who probably had never traveled by opting a reserved seat / berth till this day. While we were waiting for this train on platform 2, we saw a goods train coming and stopping in front of us. We heard an announcement informing of the train arriving on platform 3. Platform 3 was behind us and hence no need to cross over the bridge.
The train came by 5.25 PM, we boarded into a compartment full of passengers, as the exiting ones were equally rushing out. Fortunately, we not only boarded the coach, and also got two comfortable seats. The engine was next to our compartment. This means, at Coimbatore, we have to walk a full length of the train to reach the exit there.
I also learned that this train passes through Podanur junction as well. The thumb rule is, any train passes / touches Podanur does not go / halt at Coimbatore. But this train did stop at Coimbatore.
In the train, we could see different type of travelers- men women and children. One of the boys was about the age of Ayush, and was talking so much amusing all the fellow passengers. There were two other boys, (family going to Katpadi) giving trouble to their mother. They were rolling on a dirty bed sheet which was placed on the equally dirt floor of the compartment
We talk of healthy food, clean environment etc; but the scene reminded me of hundreds of children living and leading a miserable life like this- at home and during travel. There was a very old man who just climbed over to the top – luggage rack and his dirty sandals showered dust storm and hit a baby girl and her mother. The fellow was very casual in his attitude and did not seem to bother about anything. He had three pieces of luggage and was ducking around it. He also said, that this train passes thru’ Podanur and stops at Coimbatore. Apparently, this person seems to be a regular traveler as he was making fun of some one else by asking ARE YOU TRAVELLING IN TRAIN FOR THE FIRST TIME?
Most women were domestics from areas close to Katpadi, working for contractors in Kerala and going on a short vacation. Our politicians talk too much of upgrading our women by granting 33% of everything- but I think they instead giving them 100% trouble only. The so called women’s organization – majority of them do nothing to the masses but conduct meetings and seminars for publicity and getting (notoriously) famous.
In the core of my heart, I prayed for these poor women / children and the like for improved condition at least by next generation.
As the train passed the jungle area, we saw rings of fire, kept to keep off the elephants from reaching the tracks and get run over by trains. Several baby elephants were killed by speeding trains in this area during the past few months.
We reached our destination by 8 PM and home by auto at 8.45 PM. paid him the usual justified Rs.120.00
We completed our evening routines and had our dinner – thanks to Aunt who gave take away food for us.
I quickly browsed for any mails, got Anushruthi –my D-in-Law on chat, and briefly told her of the function.
We went to bed by 10PM, thinking of the events covering the previous day’s activities.
V.Sivasubramaniam
02-03-2010
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Ghaziabad
Life in Ghaziabad- 2 – Visit to Haridwar and Rishikesh
As I lived thru’ the conditions there, I was mostly, busy in my job which took away a good 12 hours (Minimum) everyday.
Once in a year I traveled to both these holy places, and stayed there for nearly 5 days, besides, visiting at times taking visitors from south as a guide. My first visit to this place was in 1973. In Haridwar I stayed at the Ayyappa temple briefly. Here food was served in Kerala traditional style which included rice, a side dish and diluted butter milk. Such a food was always delicious especially when one is starving for food away from home.
Outside, the temple, there was a small café run by a south Indian couple. I took breakfast from there on the next day, and this too was very homely.
I went to the area known as HARI KI PADI where having a dip in Ganges absolves all sins committed by the devotee (so that he / she can start committing more sins later) and absolves the person of all past wrong doings.
I saw lots of shops in the vicinity and people were buying something or the other memorabilia. I purchased color stone necklace set- with ear rings and a matching ring for the finger. I procured 3 sets. (I procured several such ornaments in my subsequent trips in the later years.) The sad and most regrettable fact is I do not have even one set of them. I do not know why I not maintained even one set for myself. I will definitely, buy few of them if I visit the place again in the coming years. The price for each set was Rs.1.50 in those days and the heavy and more decorative ones were slightly more. I’m sure the current prices must be shocking to me.
On the banks of Ganges, one can spot many small pieces of wood engraved by the force of the river carrying from the inception and leaving on the banks as the water recedes in pre-monsoon days. I collected a lot of such pieces, which were light in weight and beautiful in shapes. I had to loose them to many friends and relatives who could not travel to this place. In this case also I do not have even a single specimen in my collection. So is the case when it comes to collecting stones of odd shapes and colors.
I traveled to Rishikesh by a cab – along with few co-passengers. I could have traveled by the bus, but it was too crowded and heavily dusted covering its original blue color. In Rishikesh, I took a room in the UP tourist house which was just open for visitors. The deluxe room was rented for Rs.15 (Fifteen rupees only).The reservation clerk was very friendly with me and got me a very spacious room for the next three days without raising the rent. All I did was spoke to him praising his dedicated services away from his own home some where in UP. He suggested to me that I could book room in advance by sending a reply paid card. I followed this procedure for the next few years, and got the best of the rooms.
I imagined the bank of Ganges River to be neat and clean, being a holy place. On the first morning, I met a Sikh (Sardar) orderly and butler engaged for looking after the tourists. He was an all rounder and a good talker. He made me coffee and toast for breakfast. He was very courteous and informative.
I had a dip in the holy river just across the road. The water level was very low and clear – pre-monsoon condition. Sardar later came to my room and gave me a lecture / talk covering the entire process and needs to stay in Rishikesh.
When Sardar realized that I was close to the reservation Clerk, he started showing extra care for me. He provided me with brand new white bed sheets every day for the next three days of stay. He gave me a program which is like this:
1. Go by walk to Githa Bahwan (Ashram) across the river Ganges taking Lakshman Joola(hanging bridge).
2. As soon as you cross the bridge, there is a temple for lord Siva.
3. One can worship Siva and proceed to the Githa Ashram
4. There is a hall, veranda and green environment with facility to take bath in the holy river.
5. There is a restaurant by name Chotiwala. A well built man was sitting there with a long bunch of hair and depicting a comic figure in Hindu mythology.
6. This restaurant offered food which is a total vegetarian type. Onion was never served. (I do not know if this place still exists these days.)
7. I always opted for chapattis, puris or light pulka chapattis with plenty of vegetable dishes bedside’s green chilly, yogurt, pieces of lemon and mango. They also sold pan – beetle leaves and nuts.
8. There are gooseberry trees planted in the garden of Githa Bahwan. During the season they produce fruits of larger size.
9. There are shopping out-lets for tourists, and they sold anything from holy books to bed-sheets etc;
10. There are many persons on either side of the path, disguised as holy men / woman who invariably expect some kind of help by way of money from the passers. Beware of such people.
With these Ten Commandments of Sardar, I set my foot on the first day at Rishikesh for an on site survey of the place. There were plenty of Curry leave trees in the jungle on the bank of Ganges which were sending their fragrance with the breeze passing.
I passed few ashrams on my left side which were practicing and preaching Hindu Dharma to most devotees for the past decades. As I stepped on the hanging bridge- Lakshman Joola - I looked down and there, could see the Holy water visible very clearly like crystal. This is very same river which carries brown water during rainy season. I used to joke that one should take, only sugar and drink it like coffee.
Weather there is any sense in assuming all sorts of unholy thoughts; I could feel a sense of relief upon seeing the flow of Ganges so quietly, wave less and shining like a mirror. The Siva temple across the bridge had a fluttering flag of the Lord hoisted on the top. It looked like that it was never washed but, no one worried about it as it represented the ever powerful Siva.
As I walked further towards the Ashram, I saw holy men (and women) disguised as direct representative of God, and demanding money without much force. Some of them were half buried in the earth, some were covered with holy ash all over the body, and some were chanting the names of all available Gods and Goddesses, some were handicapped and managing similar acts with remaining body parts. I could see the visitors, giving away money in the form of 5 and 10 paisa coins. I hardly could see anyone offering coins of higher denomination.
Most of these people remained in the same place of their activity, going for answering call of nature etc; as necessary. Some had small huts above them containing everything they need absolutely. They had plastic sheets to protect them from rain. I did not talk to any one as I had no means of helping them.
As I approached Githa Bahwan, I could hear chanting of mantras by holy men. Their way of chanting was amusing to me as I’m used to the way they are chanted back home in South especially in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. To me it sounded as if they were reading loudly.
I did not bother too much; after all, Gods can be pleased the way the devotee could perform- but with full faith in Him. So, to me it was another method of praising Gods.
I clarified if there are activities in the evening or nights. I was told of daily Kirthans and Bhajans every day and participation is Free.
(In the evening I could hear this performance on the other side as I stood outside my accommodation.)
I felt too tired of walking the distance plus thirsty as well. So I went to the Chotiwala Restaurant on the left side of Githa Bahwan. I was greeted by the figure dressed like a fat man with attire of Tenali Rama. There were few occupants inside. I was accompanied by flies and insects as they too were devotee friendly. But they were very understanding and did not bother me much after I ordered my food. I asked for Chapattis and small dishes of various combinations of potato, peas, tomato, ladies’ finger etc; I also ordered, yogurt and salads- pieces of cucumber, lemon, and carrot. A long green chilly was stuck at the centre of yogurt, long enough to attach a flag to it
Being young, energetic and active person, I opted for unlimited thali – costing me more by 25 paisa. (Limited thali was priced Re.1.00), the salad was extra by another quarter of a rupee. In short I could eat sumptuously for this price of Rs.1.50.
If you compare this price to-day, it is equally costly in those days when the average price of best food was less than 75 paisa. In fact junk food in Delhi was 75 paisa only. Only the organized restaurants charged more for obvious reasons. I was given a (sweet) meeta pan free of charge.
It was around 3PM, and the sun was hot, but I felt like walking back – so that I could reach my room ready for a good cup of coffee. I had three books in my possession – all having small slokas about Lord Guruvayoor appan and one by name VILVA MANGALAM SWAMIYAR.
(This one is about a devoted priest who pushes away lord Krishna without realizing it is the Lord himself. Ultimately Vilvamangalam travels thru all places and reached a place called ANANTHAN KADU – the present name of this place is THIRUANANTHAPURAM, where the Lord shows his baby like body and absolves swami unto Himself.)
I still have this book and enjoy reading it, without worrying if Lord is watching me and preparing to appear in front of me eventually-------- I chanted the content several times for my grandmother(Kolazhi Chithi) every time I stayed in Kolazhi house.
Here I wish to say something which may not be acceptable to most of you. I saw power of God in the nature, greenery, flowing water, chirping of birds, and every place / location which was noiseless and quiet. So, I walked lonely many times to get solace. If I accompanied any one to any temple, it is purely to help the person(s),and not to upset them of their faith in God in their own version.
I also never believed in giving away any money to, any so called poor, but always to the needy that too when I’m convinced 100%
So in Haridwar also I did not pay any alms to any one. I came to my room by 5PM, and Sardar was already looking for me to provide cup of coffee. I thanked him for his very valuable information that made my initial tour very successful.
He was so delighted and happy I was given few biscuits free of charge – he refused to take payment for coffee and biscuits. Probably, no one had ever thanked him for his expert advice which I’m sure must have rendered some kind of support to the concerned visitor.
Here I wish to say that these valuable guidelines are very much in my mind like a deep rooted nail on a green tree. I visited this place many times and every time I re-called the association of Sardar.
In the evening, I did not want to trouble my good friend Sardar, and wanted to go for dinner elsewhere. I found out that the ashram next door offers light food for dinner. I found the place was over crowded and walked away in the opposite direction. Fortunately, I came across a wayside eatery and had my dinner with paper thin chapattis and baaji.
The evening was much cooler and I went to sleep after around 9 PM.
Sardar assured me to wake me up at any time in the morning.
I noticed many visitors who opted to stay for few days, took an early bath and dip in Ganges well before I got up. I never needed an alarm clock as my child hood habit triggered the biological clock which pushed me awoke and opened the eyes by 4AM, even if I had to bed by midnight.
So, after my shave and shower, I had my coffee and toasted bread -courtesy of Sardar. Then I was out strolling on the banks of Ganges flowing across my residence few steps away. I collected few pebbles and water blasted wood pieces. Later, I enjoyed several dips in the cols water of Ganges. Initially, I felt the coldness and gradually it disappeared. I did not wet my head till I decided to go back. The reason is my years could not absorb even a grain of water. So, I had three full dips at the fastest speed and wiped the years followed the head.
This routine, was followed very vigorously for the next 3 days. The only exception was my visit to MANASADEVI temple acre HARIKI PADI.
This place is also a holy place attracting pilgrims especially ladies. So many stories are attached to DEVI and the place has become famous.
I also had my darshan of Devi. as usual, here also I did not submit any demands but thanked the Goddess for being kind to me and all in the family.
It was easy for me to move around as I had minimum luggage. I cannot believe now, that I had toured the holy places like a free bird in my youth – 25 years young with absolute minimum expenses.
May be one day, some one will read this write-up and will be guided accordingly.
V.Sivasubramaniam
03-03-2010
.
As I lived thru’ the conditions there, I was mostly, busy in my job which took away a good 12 hours (Minimum) everyday.
Once in a year I traveled to both these holy places, and stayed there for nearly 5 days, besides, visiting at times taking visitors from south as a guide. My first visit to this place was in 1973. In Haridwar I stayed at the Ayyappa temple briefly. Here food was served in Kerala traditional style which included rice, a side dish and diluted butter milk. Such a food was always delicious especially when one is starving for food away from home.
Outside, the temple, there was a small café run by a south Indian couple. I took breakfast from there on the next day, and this too was very homely.
I went to the area known as HARI KI PADI where having a dip in Ganges absolves all sins committed by the devotee (so that he / she can start committing more sins later) and absolves the person of all past wrong doings.
I saw lots of shops in the vicinity and people were buying something or the other memorabilia. I purchased color stone necklace set- with ear rings and a matching ring for the finger. I procured 3 sets. (I procured several such ornaments in my subsequent trips in the later years.) The sad and most regrettable fact is I do not have even one set of them. I do not know why I not maintained even one set for myself. I will definitely, buy few of them if I visit the place again in the coming years. The price for each set was Rs.1.50 in those days and the heavy and more decorative ones were slightly more. I’m sure the current prices must be shocking to me.
On the banks of Ganges, one can spot many small pieces of wood engraved by the force of the river carrying from the inception and leaving on the banks as the water recedes in pre-monsoon days. I collected a lot of such pieces, which were light in weight and beautiful in shapes. I had to loose them to many friends and relatives who could not travel to this place. In this case also I do not have even a single specimen in my collection. So is the case when it comes to collecting stones of odd shapes and colors.
I traveled to Rishikesh by a cab – along with few co-passengers. I could have traveled by the bus, but it was too crowded and heavily dusted covering its original blue color. In Rishikesh, I took a room in the UP tourist house which was just open for visitors. The deluxe room was rented for Rs.15 (Fifteen rupees only).The reservation clerk was very friendly with me and got me a very spacious room for the next three days without raising the rent. All I did was spoke to him praising his dedicated services away from his own home some where in UP. He suggested to me that I could book room in advance by sending a reply paid card. I followed this procedure for the next few years, and got the best of the rooms.
I imagined the bank of Ganges River to be neat and clean, being a holy place. On the first morning, I met a Sikh (Sardar) orderly and butler engaged for looking after the tourists. He was an all rounder and a good talker. He made me coffee and toast for breakfast. He was very courteous and informative.
I had a dip in the holy river just across the road. The water level was very low and clear – pre-monsoon condition. Sardar later came to my room and gave me a lecture / talk covering the entire process and needs to stay in Rishikesh.
When Sardar realized that I was close to the reservation Clerk, he started showing extra care for me. He provided me with brand new white bed sheets every day for the next three days of stay. He gave me a program which is like this:
1. Go by walk to Githa Bahwan (Ashram) across the river Ganges taking Lakshman Joola(hanging bridge).
2. As soon as you cross the bridge, there is a temple for lord Siva.
3. One can worship Siva and proceed to the Githa Ashram
4. There is a hall, veranda and green environment with facility to take bath in the holy river.
5. There is a restaurant by name Chotiwala. A well built man was sitting there with a long bunch of hair and depicting a comic figure in Hindu mythology.
6. This restaurant offered food which is a total vegetarian type. Onion was never served. (I do not know if this place still exists these days.)
7. I always opted for chapattis, puris or light pulka chapattis with plenty of vegetable dishes bedside’s green chilly, yogurt, pieces of lemon and mango. They also sold pan – beetle leaves and nuts.
8. There are gooseberry trees planted in the garden of Githa Bahwan. During the season they produce fruits of larger size.
9. There are shopping out-lets for tourists, and they sold anything from holy books to bed-sheets etc;
10. There are many persons on either side of the path, disguised as holy men / woman who invariably expect some kind of help by way of money from the passers. Beware of such people.
With these Ten Commandments of Sardar, I set my foot on the first day at Rishikesh for an on site survey of the place. There were plenty of Curry leave trees in the jungle on the bank of Ganges which were sending their fragrance with the breeze passing.
I passed few ashrams on my left side which were practicing and preaching Hindu Dharma to most devotees for the past decades. As I stepped on the hanging bridge- Lakshman Joola - I looked down and there, could see the Holy water visible very clearly like crystal. This is very same river which carries brown water during rainy season. I used to joke that one should take, only sugar and drink it like coffee.
Weather there is any sense in assuming all sorts of unholy thoughts; I could feel a sense of relief upon seeing the flow of Ganges so quietly, wave less and shining like a mirror. The Siva temple across the bridge had a fluttering flag of the Lord hoisted on the top. It looked like that it was never washed but, no one worried about it as it represented the ever powerful Siva.
As I walked further towards the Ashram, I saw holy men (and women) disguised as direct representative of God, and demanding money without much force. Some of them were half buried in the earth, some were covered with holy ash all over the body, and some were chanting the names of all available Gods and Goddesses, some were handicapped and managing similar acts with remaining body parts. I could see the visitors, giving away money in the form of 5 and 10 paisa coins. I hardly could see anyone offering coins of higher denomination.
Most of these people remained in the same place of their activity, going for answering call of nature etc; as necessary. Some had small huts above them containing everything they need absolutely. They had plastic sheets to protect them from rain. I did not talk to any one as I had no means of helping them.
As I approached Githa Bahwan, I could hear chanting of mantras by holy men. Their way of chanting was amusing to me as I’m used to the way they are chanted back home in South especially in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. To me it sounded as if they were reading loudly.
I did not bother too much; after all, Gods can be pleased the way the devotee could perform- but with full faith in Him. So, to me it was another method of praising Gods.
I clarified if there are activities in the evening or nights. I was told of daily Kirthans and Bhajans every day and participation is Free.
(In the evening I could hear this performance on the other side as I stood outside my accommodation.)
I felt too tired of walking the distance plus thirsty as well. So I went to the Chotiwala Restaurant on the left side of Githa Bahwan. I was greeted by the figure dressed like a fat man with attire of Tenali Rama. There were few occupants inside. I was accompanied by flies and insects as they too were devotee friendly. But they were very understanding and did not bother me much after I ordered my food. I asked for Chapattis and small dishes of various combinations of potato, peas, tomato, ladies’ finger etc; I also ordered, yogurt and salads- pieces of cucumber, lemon, and carrot. A long green chilly was stuck at the centre of yogurt, long enough to attach a flag to it
Being young, energetic and active person, I opted for unlimited thali – costing me more by 25 paisa. (Limited thali was priced Re.1.00), the salad was extra by another quarter of a rupee. In short I could eat sumptuously for this price of Rs.1.50.
If you compare this price to-day, it is equally costly in those days when the average price of best food was less than 75 paisa. In fact junk food in Delhi was 75 paisa only. Only the organized restaurants charged more for obvious reasons. I was given a (sweet) meeta pan free of charge.
It was around 3PM, and the sun was hot, but I felt like walking back – so that I could reach my room ready for a good cup of coffee. I had three books in my possession – all having small slokas about Lord Guruvayoor appan and one by name VILVA MANGALAM SWAMIYAR.
(This one is about a devoted priest who pushes away lord Krishna without realizing it is the Lord himself. Ultimately Vilvamangalam travels thru all places and reached a place called ANANTHAN KADU – the present name of this place is THIRUANANTHAPURAM, where the Lord shows his baby like body and absolves swami unto Himself.)
I still have this book and enjoy reading it, without worrying if Lord is watching me and preparing to appear in front of me eventually-------- I chanted the content several times for my grandmother(Kolazhi Chithi) every time I stayed in Kolazhi house.
Here I wish to say something which may not be acceptable to most of you. I saw power of God in the nature, greenery, flowing water, chirping of birds, and every place / location which was noiseless and quiet. So, I walked lonely many times to get solace. If I accompanied any one to any temple, it is purely to help the person(s),and not to upset them of their faith in God in their own version.
I also never believed in giving away any money to, any so called poor, but always to the needy that too when I’m convinced 100%
So in Haridwar also I did not pay any alms to any one. I came to my room by 5PM, and Sardar was already looking for me to provide cup of coffee. I thanked him for his very valuable information that made my initial tour very successful.
He was so delighted and happy I was given few biscuits free of charge – he refused to take payment for coffee and biscuits. Probably, no one had ever thanked him for his expert advice which I’m sure must have rendered some kind of support to the concerned visitor.
Here I wish to say that these valuable guidelines are very much in my mind like a deep rooted nail on a green tree. I visited this place many times and every time I re-called the association of Sardar.
In the evening, I did not want to trouble my good friend Sardar, and wanted to go for dinner elsewhere. I found out that the ashram next door offers light food for dinner. I found the place was over crowded and walked away in the opposite direction. Fortunately, I came across a wayside eatery and had my dinner with paper thin chapattis and baaji.
The evening was much cooler and I went to sleep after around 9 PM.
Sardar assured me to wake me up at any time in the morning.
I noticed many visitors who opted to stay for few days, took an early bath and dip in Ganges well before I got up. I never needed an alarm clock as my child hood habit triggered the biological clock which pushed me awoke and opened the eyes by 4AM, even if I had to bed by midnight.
So, after my shave and shower, I had my coffee and toasted bread -courtesy of Sardar. Then I was out strolling on the banks of Ganges flowing across my residence few steps away. I collected few pebbles and water blasted wood pieces. Later, I enjoyed several dips in the cols water of Ganges. Initially, I felt the coldness and gradually it disappeared. I did not wet my head till I decided to go back. The reason is my years could not absorb even a grain of water. So, I had three full dips at the fastest speed and wiped the years followed the head.
This routine, was followed very vigorously for the next 3 days. The only exception was my visit to MANASADEVI temple acre HARIKI PADI.
This place is also a holy place attracting pilgrims especially ladies. So many stories are attached to DEVI and the place has become famous.
I also had my darshan of Devi. as usual, here also I did not submit any demands but thanked the Goddess for being kind to me and all in the family.
It was easy for me to move around as I had minimum luggage. I cannot believe now, that I had toured the holy places like a free bird in my youth – 25 years young with absolute minimum expenses.
May be one day, some one will read this write-up and will be guided accordingly.
V.Sivasubramaniam
03-03-2010
.
Birthday
Ayush Ayush Ayush Ayush AYush AYUsh AYUSh AYUSH
Do you see that Ayush has started growing? To me Ayush is the most valuable child as on date. We have to watch him growing. His birthday was celebrated on 25-2-10, as he entered his third year of survival in this world. We set out to be part of his Best Ever wishers on that day.
We left for Bangalore by train on 23-2-10 – Intercity Express and, reached his place by 8.50PM by an auto. Ayush was waiting for our arrival outside the building gate and cheered at us as we got down from the auto. This time, we managed to reach the building without much trouble. The auto driver was also a decent fellow.
We had some un-consumed food from our stock of railway trip stuff and ate it for dinner. Ayush received with an expression of THANKS – two packets of banana chips and chocolates. Ayush wanted to open the chips packet and take few. Sheeba gave him few but Ayush insisted for some more of it and given.
Ayush refused us permission to take over his bed. He kept telling NO THATHAPPA every time I clarified for taking his bed. He showed us the moon and stars, and other objects usually appear in a night sky. He asked me to OFF the light and close the door to see them clearly. He also showed us the glowing bed sheet and pillow covers. Later, I managed to sing some rhymes / ABC, 123 etc to set him for sleeping. He confirmed in full throttle NO DAY CARE TOMORROW (i.e. on 24-02-10) He made us understand that he will be in our company for that day.
On the next day, Ayush got up early and enquired about Aunty – PATTIAMMA and was happy to see us around in his bed room. He realized that we deserve his bed. On this day-24-2-10, Ayush made me draw as many pictures as possible on the large sheet with water pens. (Sudhin’s gift to Ayush). Ayush kept thinking and each time I drew something, will tell me some name for me to draw next. He kept changing – cat, car, truck, bus, aero plane, fish, train, flower, duck, star, moon, square, butterfly, and many more. We spent a good two hours in this activity. Ayush knew how to turn open the cap of the pen- I was surprised as this one is clockwise and he knew exactly the way it worked and went to the tap to fill water.
He has learned a lot by observing and imitating others who performed any act / talking or doing some work. I took him out in the evening along with his cycle to the basement. He literally pushed everyone who tried to touch his cycle along with a big NO, don’t touch.
He was excited as the other children rode their cycles, and nearly ran with his cycle dragging it as his legs are still short to reach the pedal with rotating force. As we waited, Sheeba arrived in her car, and you should have seen Ayush’s happiness/ excitement and associated noise with affection.
We went up, and Ayush had his share of eatables, soft drinks and played with me. He watched cartoons, Rhymes, and music program on T.V. On this night also, I had to make him sleep. We the grown ups spent time talking / discussing few familiar matters, reviewed the program the next day.
The next DAY being Ayush’s birthday, we went to Lord Siva temple next door. Ayush tried to take away the money Aunty placed on the platter of the priest. Ayush - also, did not drop the rupee coin on the platter either. The priest nearly taken aback and was almost about to return the money to Ayush.
Later, we went to TOY shop. (You can see him in tears). We wanted to buy him either a car / or a bus in WHITE. But we got both and Ayush liked them. The deal did not stop there. He grabbed two Auto rickshaw toys – one per hand. Some how made him to return one. Gradually, Ayush became happier and smiled at all of us.
We took some rest, and prepared the hall for receiving children for the party. Ayush tried to blow the balloons with all possible methods.- See the picture. Then I took his hand jointly and pumped air into balloons. Ayush said several times, MOMMY SEE I’M DOING showing the action of air being filled. I like his persuasion in similar situations – not to give up easily.
Ananth collected the BIRTHDAY CAKE with the surface of Mickey Mouse. Ayush enjoyed the party. he was more excited than normal. His fear of balloons disappeared... As he took one by one each balloon, and told each one to - TAKE IT.
Ananth’s parents and grandmother also arrived and blessed Ayush. They left after an hours’ stay. All guests were served with piece of Cake, large samosa (Punjabi type), Gulab jamun, soft drink and
Later we had a go and finished most of the items. Some, I reserved for the next day’s railway journey back home. Ayush was curious and cheerful as he received lots of gifts which included a flash gun. Ayush took it for another bubble machine and kept trying / triggering to see if any bubble was coming. I told him NO and he won’t agree. Later he slept singing nursery rhymes.
The next, day, we got up by 4AM and completed routines and took the call taxi which was booked earlier – to Bangalore City Railway Station. We managed to pass the 7 hours of travel time by talking about Ayush. We were so sure, that Ayush will look for us next day and make noise when he realizes that we were long gone.
After attending Ayush’s birthday, I realized that he is growing, learned a set of rules, and very possessive by nature. My wish is that Ayush be guided properly, the best way, for him to become the Best Ever grandchild as on the day. In no time, we want to see another grandchild to outwit Ayush, and compete with him so that they sail through healthy competition as they grow day after day.
May be one day this will be read by Ayush himself and I wonder what he will conclude of me then.
V.Sivasubramaniam
28-02-2010
Do you see that Ayush has started growing? To me Ayush is the most valuable child as on date. We have to watch him growing. His birthday was celebrated on 25-2-10, as he entered his third year of survival in this world. We set out to be part of his Best Ever wishers on that day.
We left for Bangalore by train on 23-2-10 – Intercity Express and, reached his place by 8.50PM by an auto. Ayush was waiting for our arrival outside the building gate and cheered at us as we got down from the auto. This time, we managed to reach the building without much trouble. The auto driver was also a decent fellow.
We had some un-consumed food from our stock of railway trip stuff and ate it for dinner. Ayush received with an expression of THANKS – two packets of banana chips and chocolates. Ayush wanted to open the chips packet and take few. Sheeba gave him few but Ayush insisted for some more of it and given.
Ayush refused us permission to take over his bed. He kept telling NO THATHAPPA every time I clarified for taking his bed. He showed us the moon and stars, and other objects usually appear in a night sky. He asked me to OFF the light and close the door to see them clearly. He also showed us the glowing bed sheet and pillow covers. Later, I managed to sing some rhymes / ABC, 123 etc to set him for sleeping. He confirmed in full throttle NO DAY CARE TOMORROW (i.e. on 24-02-10) He made us understand that he will be in our company for that day.
On the next day, Ayush got up early and enquired about Aunty – PATTIAMMA and was happy to see us around in his bed room. He realized that we deserve his bed. On this day-24-2-10, Ayush made me draw as many pictures as possible on the large sheet with water pens. (Sudhin’s gift to Ayush). Ayush kept thinking and each time I drew something, will tell me some name for me to draw next. He kept changing – cat, car, truck, bus, aero plane, fish, train, flower, duck, star, moon, square, butterfly, and many more. We spent a good two hours in this activity. Ayush knew how to turn open the cap of the pen- I was surprised as this one is clockwise and he knew exactly the way it worked and went to the tap to fill water.
He has learned a lot by observing and imitating others who performed any act / talking or doing some work. I took him out in the evening along with his cycle to the basement. He literally pushed everyone who tried to touch his cycle along with a big NO, don’t touch.
He was excited as the other children rode their cycles, and nearly ran with his cycle dragging it as his legs are still short to reach the pedal with rotating force. As we waited, Sheeba arrived in her car, and you should have seen Ayush’s happiness/ excitement and associated noise with affection.
We went up, and Ayush had his share of eatables, soft drinks and played with me. He watched cartoons, Rhymes, and music program on T.V. On this night also, I had to make him sleep. We the grown ups spent time talking / discussing few familiar matters, reviewed the program the next day.
The next DAY being Ayush’s birthday, we went to Lord Siva temple next door. Ayush tried to take away the money Aunty placed on the platter of the priest. Ayush - also, did not drop the rupee coin on the platter either. The priest nearly taken aback and was almost about to return the money to Ayush.
Later, we went to TOY shop. (You can see him in tears). We wanted to buy him either a car / or a bus in WHITE. But we got both and Ayush liked them. The deal did not stop there. He grabbed two Auto rickshaw toys – one per hand. Some how made him to return one. Gradually, Ayush became happier and smiled at all of us.
We took some rest, and prepared the hall for receiving children for the party. Ayush tried to blow the balloons with all possible methods.- See the picture. Then I took his hand jointly and pumped air into balloons. Ayush said several times, MOMMY SEE I’M DOING showing the action of air being filled. I like his persuasion in similar situations – not to give up easily.
Ananth collected the BIRTHDAY CAKE with the surface of Mickey Mouse. Ayush enjoyed the party. he was more excited than normal. His fear of balloons disappeared... As he took one by one each balloon, and told each one to - TAKE IT.
Ananth’s parents and grandmother also arrived and blessed Ayush. They left after an hours’ stay. All guests were served with piece of Cake, large samosa (Punjabi type), Gulab jamun, soft drink and
Later we had a go and finished most of the items. Some, I reserved for the next day’s railway journey back home. Ayush was curious and cheerful as he received lots of gifts which included a flash gun. Ayush took it for another bubble machine and kept trying / triggering to see if any bubble was coming. I told him NO and he won’t agree. Later he slept singing nursery rhymes.
The next, day, we got up by 4AM and completed routines and took the call taxi which was booked earlier – to Bangalore City Railway Station. We managed to pass the 7 hours of travel time by talking about Ayush. We were so sure, that Ayush will look for us next day and make noise when he realizes that we were long gone.
After attending Ayush’s birthday, I realized that he is growing, learned a set of rules, and very possessive by nature. My wish is that Ayush be guided properly, the best way, for him to become the Best Ever grandchild as on the day. In no time, we want to see another grandchild to outwit Ayush, and compete with him so that they sail through healthy competition as they grow day after day.
May be one day this will be read by Ayush himself and I wonder what he will conclude of me then.
V.Sivasubramaniam
28-02-2010
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