I think once Shakespeare, said, what is in a name, a rose is but a rose nothing but a rose, always a rose no matter what you call it,
For me what is in a song, what can it do to you?
It is said that, (don’t ask me who said that- as it could be myself)
Any sound when made with rhythm and in a sequence, then it is called music. If sung with proper wording or humming then it is admired further and, when supported by instruments of modern times, it puts the listener to some kind of emotional order.
Well, then given the opportunity, most of the sinners will abstain from committing any un-holy act at-least for that duration of time when he / she is spell bound and concentrating in listening to such music.
I’m neither a sinner nor intended to commit few (more), but love to be absorbed into my own world of old memories- all related songs of the past.
One can co-relate anything with anything- an instance, an experience, an acquaintance, or some kind of attachment of two things.
I do not wish to drag any one for narrating such inter actions but of my own.
I hit the alarm at 4.30 before it hits me, for, I normally is awake by 4 AM, no matter what time I retire to bed in the previous night. Every day, when I get up so, I just think of my father who was behind this harsh practice. Yes, it was harsh to get up by 4 AM every morning at the shout of my father followed by my mother.
The orderly, Ramaswamy, was already up and waiting to take me to the well side, to pour at-least two buckets of water over me to really wake me up!! Washing the teeth and mouth was done before being washed in full length. Then, this ritual is extended to all my brothers and sisters as well.
Then other thoughts that follow are about how I was given a tumbler of coffee, strict instructions to complete chanting of few lines of prayer songs from holy scripts, home work etc;
Then there was RADIO CEYLON, broadcasting every available song from 7AM (or so) filling the streets with adorable noise.
The numbers of songs I know are purely due to the compulsory pumping of the same into my years, during child hood, as I walked to school. While listening to a song, I also was talking to a classmate- whenever this song was audible; I get back to see my friend in my thoughts.
Another song reminds me of few of my classmates who also sang it as it was seen in a particular cinema. Few songs were sung in the class room, being philosophical, or it conveyed some moral – (NOT obscene message as it is in these days) information.
For e.g, a song narrated a series of advices to a young bride by her brother as how to take care of husband, uphold the values of parents, in-laws and above all herself. Whenever I listen to this song, I saw my Tamil Pundit Shri. Athmanathan Pillai and most of my classmates, alive in front of me.
There is another one from a cinema. I skipped my class and went for this cinema. The tragedy is on that day, they started the film reversing one of the film reels. In other words, had to re- run the same in the proper order, taking more than necessary time for completing the show. This caused my arrival with a delay of more than an hour. The film is NEELAVANAM.
There is another song, which when listening to it, reminds of my Tamil Exam in class 10.I challenged few of my classmates that seeing a film prior to the day of an exam will not affect the performance in the exam. I scored above 60% in that exam. When ever I hear the song from that film, I laugh to myself and recall my good friends and their friendly challenge.
So, a song, even when you are NOT even the singer but a good listener and an admirer, can trigger your past related to something as you heard it for the first time in your life.
I sang some songs just to make people to laugh – like RAHASIYAM, Parama rahasiyam, or Nan Enna sollivitten NEE aen alarukirai,etc;
Then there were weddings, where people became real singers- teasing the groom / bride depending on whose side where they, became heros by singing a particular song on demand, etc;
There were several weddings including my own, where very many songs were heard. I remember each one of the guests who sang the song – as and when I hear them and I am over Joyce as always.
There are sad songs, which, reminds me of those passed away, and some related to hospitalization of few of them.
Few remind me of my school time picnics, and the company of the students involved.
Then comes another one from a near horror film after seeing which I walked thru pitch dark roads, chased by dogs and seeing elephants on the side walk. Name of the film is GUMNAM and the place was high way of Trichur. Year was 1965 or so.
I was asked to stand up on the bench for singing a song quietly, but fellow students laughed at it exposing me to the class teacher. At that time I was very much upset with my friends, and to-day I again laugh at this incident. The song was from film KAIRASI – Kathal ennum atrinile kanniyaram odathile---
I could listen to songs from films in Tamil, Malayalam and later from Hindi movies as well.
Songs from Katipatang reminds me of my dinner in a restaurant in Ghaziabad – Sangam Restaurant near clock tower – Ghanta Ghar.
I was in Tamil Nadu express when the songs from film JOHNEY MERANAM - film with Hema malini and Dev Anand.were shown in the compartment T.V.
I wrote exam at one time- hopelessly, when marks came I was reluctant to show the paper to my parents for getting their signature. For a while, I was very much worried, then sang a song to myself –Ennathan Nadakum nadakkattume, a songt from MGR film, Don’t ask me if my father ever signed that paper?
Then there are devotional ones. I listened to them, when attending temple functions. Most reminds me of Lord Ganesha, Muruga, and many Goddesses of Specific powers.
There are situations when I listened to few in exhibitions, hotel clubs, and road shows in native village.
The very emotional ones are still those which I listened and tried to silence my younger ones to put them on sleep as they were infants.
So, if nothing can keep me quiet, the very song from one of the many I keep listening has the power to give me invisible company at all times, - a good and healthy companionship of course.
I can write a kind of auto-biography only based on my interest towards listening songs of various times which will bring all my friends closer, bring all my past alive and there by keep me alive as well.
Sounds like going through my life again
V.Sivasubramaniam
15-08-2010
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Monday, August 1, 2011
The Festive days at home here in Coimbatore
Few weeks ago, we (self and Sarojam) learned that, Anushruthi- our daughter –in-law is due to come to India in July 2011. The real purpose was to have her sponsorship changed to my son Sudhin.
Anushruthi /Sudhin wanted to make use of this opportunity to visit us and her parents within the short duration of the vacation.
Sudhin had to go to Shangai on an official visit and hence Anushruthi came on her own via Dharmsala – where a house is being constructed by her parents.
So, Sheeba too wanted to accompany Anushruthi during her visit to our home in Coimbatore.
Anushruthi, Sheeba and Ayush arrived here on Saturday the 16th of July 2011. Everything was normal and we went to Aliyar dam, Amaravathi dam and to Masani Amman Temple on our return path to home.
This trip was NOT of any great importance but gave all of us a break from our hectic daily routines, especially when we had to travel within 3 hrs of Anushruthi’s arrival.
It rained all the way, I was against taking umbrella (Saro took one despite my suggestion, which came as a great relief and I was proved wrong.)I was sure of the rain stopping sooner we entered the Aliyar dam park.
We carried with us 3 iddlys, biscuits, ribbon pakoda, banana chips, (Gems, potato chips, and wafer biscuits for Ayush), tang pouches and water in two bottles – including one for Ayush.
The rain stopped after wetting us formally and we enjoyed cool weather as we walked up to the dam wall taking few snaps as well. Ayush wanted to take a boat or at-least get in-to water. Some how, we persuaded from standing firm on his demand. We took him to the cage were few hamsters were kept in captivity. Ayush fed them grass blades with fear if they will grab his hands too! We managed to chew off some of the items during this period and left for Amaravathi dam / near the famous Sainik School. There was nothing there that we could spent time on, and hence chose to return via the famous Masaniamman Temple.
We reached the temple around 4.00 PM. All went inside the temple and I chose to stay outside. Asymbolic pooja was performed by the priest and all came out later.
We drove straight to Annapurna Hotel in R.S Puram where we reached by 6.45 PM.
We were not tired and enjoyed evening snacks with Ayush having poori baaji like a sahib. Ayush was so natural in his act; he defeated us in all aspects when it came to dining in a hotel.
The trip was enjoyed by all of us and we returned home safely by 8PM.
I certainly, enjoyed the get-together as we – Anushruthi, Sheeba,Ayush, Sarojam and myself, were meeting after a long spell of time and the visit was brief.
We all felt that Sudhin and Ananth too were with us but that was over come as Sudhin called twice during our snack time in the hotel.
I wished that our next gathering as close knit members of family includes Sudhin and Ananth.( Group of Seven)
Masaniamman Temple
Masaniamman Temple is situated at a distance of 15 miles away from Pollachi. This sanctified shrine attracts large number of devotees.
The idol of Masaniamman is very powerful one and offer blessing to all devotees who have a stunt belief in her. Devotees also expect that Goddess will respond their prayer within three weeks. There is a stone image in the temple representing as a Goddess of Justice with the body of serpent.
Merchants meeting loss in their business, people hassled by enemies, women or men who lost their belongings take bath, sport holy ashes of the shrine, grind red chilies in stone grinder of the temple, smear the paste on stone of Justice called ‘Neethi Kal’.
In the sanctum, the extensive image of Masaniamman lying on her back measures about 15 feet long from head to foot. The gigantic image of Masaniamman is painted with flashy colours.
Here, one can see Goddess Masaniamman in the lying posture. The idol has four hands, two hands placed on the ground, two hands raised above. While the top left hands hold a skull and snake and other two hands holding drum and a trident.
On Tuesdays and Fridays devotees rush to this temple, during Krithigai and New Moon day they undergo special pooja.
There is a historical background for the configuration of this powerful temple. Anaimalai, a place near Pollachi was ruled earlier by the king called Nanan. He treated their people very badly. During his reign he had a very big mango tree in his farm on the riverside of Aaliyar, which was very special to him. He was so particular that nobody was permitted to use neither mangoes nor its leaves.
Once,a gang of girls went to river to take bath they noticed a mango floating on the river which belongs to Nanan's tree, one of the girl picked up and ate the fruit. Even after several pleadings made by her father, instead of excusing her the king sentenced her to death.
After some time villagers in that area formed a female statue in lying posture using sand in graveyard with the remembrance of innocent girl and worshipped as ‘Masani’. Later Kozhinkhosargal defeated king Nanan and destroyed the mango tree.
It is also believed that Lord Rama on his way in search of Seetha was attracted by this powerful temple and made meditation over here which adds glory to this temple. So, once you visit Pollachi don’t miss to worship Masaniamman.
Anushruthi /Sudhin wanted to make use of this opportunity to visit us and her parents within the short duration of the vacation.
Sudhin had to go to Shangai on an official visit and hence Anushruthi came on her own via Dharmsala – where a house is being constructed by her parents.
So, Sheeba too wanted to accompany Anushruthi during her visit to our home in Coimbatore.
Anushruthi, Sheeba and Ayush arrived here on Saturday the 16th of July 2011. Everything was normal and we went to Aliyar dam, Amaravathi dam and to Masani Amman Temple on our return path to home.
This trip was NOT of any great importance but gave all of us a break from our hectic daily routines, especially when we had to travel within 3 hrs of Anushruthi’s arrival.
It rained all the way, I was against taking umbrella (Saro took one despite my suggestion, which came as a great relief and I was proved wrong.)I was sure of the rain stopping sooner we entered the Aliyar dam park.
We carried with us 3 iddlys, biscuits, ribbon pakoda, banana chips, (Gems, potato chips, and wafer biscuits for Ayush), tang pouches and water in two bottles – including one for Ayush.
The rain stopped after wetting us formally and we enjoyed cool weather as we walked up to the dam wall taking few snaps as well. Ayush wanted to take a boat or at-least get in-to water. Some how, we persuaded from standing firm on his demand. We took him to the cage were few hamsters were kept in captivity. Ayush fed them grass blades with fear if they will grab his hands too! We managed to chew off some of the items during this period and left for Amaravathi dam / near the famous Sainik School. There was nothing there that we could spent time on, and hence chose to return via the famous Masaniamman Temple.
We reached the temple around 4.00 PM. All went inside the temple and I chose to stay outside. Asymbolic pooja was performed by the priest and all came out later.
We drove straight to Annapurna Hotel in R.S Puram where we reached by 6.45 PM.
We were not tired and enjoyed evening snacks with Ayush having poori baaji like a sahib. Ayush was so natural in his act; he defeated us in all aspects when it came to dining in a hotel.
The trip was enjoyed by all of us and we returned home safely by 8PM.
I certainly, enjoyed the get-together as we – Anushruthi, Sheeba,Ayush, Sarojam and myself, were meeting after a long spell of time and the visit was brief.
We all felt that Sudhin and Ananth too were with us but that was over come as Sudhin called twice during our snack time in the hotel.
I wished that our next gathering as close knit members of family includes Sudhin and Ananth.( Group of Seven)
Masaniamman Temple
Masaniamman Temple is situated at a distance of 15 miles away from Pollachi. This sanctified shrine attracts large number of devotees.
The idol of Masaniamman is very powerful one and offer blessing to all devotees who have a stunt belief in her. Devotees also expect that Goddess will respond their prayer within three weeks. There is a stone image in the temple representing as a Goddess of Justice with the body of serpent.
Merchants meeting loss in their business, people hassled by enemies, women or men who lost their belongings take bath, sport holy ashes of the shrine, grind red chilies in stone grinder of the temple, smear the paste on stone of Justice called ‘Neethi Kal’.
In the sanctum, the extensive image of Masaniamman lying on her back measures about 15 feet long from head to foot. The gigantic image of Masaniamman is painted with flashy colours.
Here, one can see Goddess Masaniamman in the lying posture. The idol has four hands, two hands placed on the ground, two hands raised above. While the top left hands hold a skull and snake and other two hands holding drum and a trident.
On Tuesdays and Fridays devotees rush to this temple, during Krithigai and New Moon day they undergo special pooja.
There is a historical background for the configuration of this powerful temple. Anaimalai, a place near Pollachi was ruled earlier by the king called Nanan. He treated their people very badly. During his reign he had a very big mango tree in his farm on the riverside of Aaliyar, which was very special to him. He was so particular that nobody was permitted to use neither mangoes nor its leaves.
Once,a gang of girls went to river to take bath they noticed a mango floating on the river which belongs to Nanan's tree, one of the girl picked up and ate the fruit. Even after several pleadings made by her father, instead of excusing her the king sentenced her to death.
After some time villagers in that area formed a female statue in lying posture using sand in graveyard with the remembrance of innocent girl and worshipped as ‘Masani’. Later Kozhinkhosargal defeated king Nanan and destroyed the mango tree.
It is also believed that Lord Rama on his way in search of Seetha was attracted by this powerful temple and made meditation over here which adds glory to this temple. So, once you visit Pollachi don’t miss to worship Masaniamman.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Kolazhi
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
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
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
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Kasi Yatra-1981
Kasi (Yatra) Visit as it took place in 1981
One fine morning in the first week April 1981, I received a letter card from my Father-in-law Shri.K.V.Sreenivasa Iyer (KVS) that he wants to fulfill the desire of his beloved wife,(my MIL) which is visiting Kasi before her last breath.
They both have seen the world, as they were in Far East for most of their life, besides visits to many other places in India. He chose my company for three reasons:
1. I knew the local language very well.
2. I’m his youngest son-in-law.
3. I was expected to leave India on an assignment in September 81.
So, I wrote back that he can plan his travel and I should accompany him with my family for guidance and help.
I had no ceiling fan in the bed room, and immediately arranged to fix one (Compton make) at a cost of Rs.400, and also got my house white washed for Rs.150 with material and labor.
I requested my brother Ramakrishnan,(Kalyanam) to help me in organizing tickets accordingly, soon the date of arrival of my FIL was known.
I received confirmation that, my FIL with two of my SIL, grandson Satish and MIL would be arriving in Delhi on 28-5-81, by JJExpress. He had done the reservation by himself from Olavakode Junction.
He also remitted Rs.2000 simultaneously for me to do arrangements for his visit to Varanasi( Kasi.)
Immediately, I contacted my brother Ramakrishnan, for help in booking 6 Tickets to Kasi for any day after 5th of May 81.He, very sincerely, tried and got bookings to Calcutta in the train UPPER INDIA EXPRESS which leaves New Delhi every day, from platform no 13 at 20.10 hrs. (We were on waiting list with an assurance of confirmed berths to be declared 2 hrs before the scheduled time of departure.
My FIL and family arrived at Hazarat Nizamudin Junction in the afternoon of 28-5-81 and we took a taxi home for Rs.100 to reach our house in Old Raj Nagar.
Earlier I had my leave adjusted for 3 days and 15 days at a stretch from 10th of May. So, after a days rest, I took them on a visit to see, few of his family friends living in kalkaji in Delhi and in the vicinity. We traveled by public transport and rickshaws and the total expenses came to Rs.57.60 only – including fruits for hosts which came to Rs.20.00 only.
On Tuesday-the 5th of May1981, we visited Hardwar and Rishikesh. We returned on the next day. I shall write about this trip separately.
To-day, the expenses of those days look very negligible as the prices of everything has escalated in the last 28 years.
I shall show the daily expenses during this tour including the weeks before and after it.
The cooking gas was available for Rs.47.50. We bought a tourist guide- book to Varanasi for Rs.2.00 (TWO only), paid Rs.400.00 for booking 6 tickets to Varanasi, and Rs.450 for 4 and a half Tickets to Bombay (for my FIL family for return trip via Bombay)
The plan was to book a single reservation ticket( for each of us) to Calcutta and break the journey at Allahabad, Varanasi( Kasi) and Gaya – for my INLAWS to perform their religious ceremonies and then go to Calcutta from Gaya. All we had to do was re-confirm our reservations each time and pay for the relevant part of the journey. Return journey was straight, without break
As the day of travel to Varanasi was fast approaching, we were busy organizing everything from food for consumption during travel to dress and toiletries etc; though most of us were adults, we still had two (my daughter Sheeba-3years, and Baby’s son Satish-7years) children to be taken care especially from the point of safety aspects.
My brothers Ramakrishnan , Rajamani and another family friend Gopal, came to see us off safely on this trip. We left home at 15 hrs, and reached New Ghaziabad Railway station- nearest to our colony, in 30 minutes to catch; the available train to New Delhi station. There was a train scheduled passing this station at 3.30 PM, but learned that the said train left already at 14.15 hrs, based on new timings.
So, we rushed to Ghaziabad Railway station, as there are many trains to New Delhi passing this main station. Fortunately we got the next train – a shuttle to ND station. We reached platform 13 at 7PM.My brother Ramakrishnan, went into the station and got our berths confirmed as, he paid an extra amount of Rs.25 per ticket. (Rs 150.00 for SIX tickets to Calcutta)
The train arrived from the yard and we were shocked that all the compartments were already full. People have occupied seats from the yard itself. We tried to get into our compartment and could not do so, as the entrance was also blocked. We managed to get inside around 7.45PM.We were forced to get down at 8PM.
The train was scheduled to leave at 8.10 PM. My brother Kalyanam, quickly went to the booking counter and re-confirmed our berths. In the meantime, we decided to drop the trip and go for next day or whenever possible. Kalyanam, also spoke to the TTE of our coach, who asked us to board the train and he will sort out our berths. So, with great difficulty, we managed to get into the train and stood near our allotted berths.
The scene was like this:
I was very much upset and angry.
Saro - my wife was very much upset with me.
FIL and MIL were undecided what to do next. Mind you, they both were 80 years + young!.
Baby and Thankam (my SILs) lost all hopes of continuing the trip.
Sheeba and Satish were sweating and crying.
Kalyanam, spoke to the passengers who have illegally occupying our berths, and requested them to give seats to my aged in-laws. and they got the space to squeeze in.
The train left the station at 8.20 PM – late by 10 minutes.
We were supposed to travel leisurely with peace of mind, as we were already exhausted due to various trips in the previous days. With a bit of luck, we all got our seats with the help of the TTE. (We did not pay any more bribes besides the Rs150 paid to the booking clerk by my brother.)
I thought of my brother Kalyanam, and thanked him whole heartedly for, without his help, we wouldn’t have started this trip. I get annoyed and angry under this kind of situations while my brother did not!
Gradually, the tension, eased and we had our dinner, as we had enough to consume. We had comfortable journey for the rest of the travel, till we reached Allahabad at 6.30AM on 11-5-1981-Monday.
Within minutes of our stepping down on to the platform at Allahabad Railway station, we were surrounded by rickshaw pullers. Each one suggested a hotel or Inn. Since we had gone thru’ the guide for this town, we went to a hotel named PRAYG HOTEL. We were taken to this hotel by a -tongewala (Horse cart puller). This man helped us by organizing another cart for our city tour in the afternoon. We paid him 5 rupees at the end of the day for his help.
We took a room at 35.00 rupees per day. The room had a water cooler, large enough to freeze the room. We completed all our morning routines, had coffee, good breakfast and took rest till noon.
Later we left for the tour of the city and a trip to Sangam – confluence of Holy rivers- Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswathi.
We went round the city. We could not visit Mothilal Nehru museum as it remained closed on Mondays.
We reached the bank of river Ganges. Then there was fun. Many boatmen nearly trapped us and insisted to take their boat to the confluence. Each one was announcing a rate for this trip, which was exorbitant and was near rip-off rate for any one. Then I started my talk in pure local dialect and they fell silent.
The rates came down drastically from hundreds to tens. We finally agreed for 25 rupees for a return trip to the confluence.
There was much less water in the river Ganges. Here again, as we approached the centre point, the priests grabbed our boat by a long stick and tided it with their one. They pronounced all sorts of rituals to be performed there for salvation and attainment of peaceful death which assured a place in heaven and, demanded a huge sum of money for it.
This is one of many instances, I have seen / experienced, and felt sorry for our orthodox systems that groomed many exploiters, in the society taking advantage of a Hindu’s faith in God. It is doubtful, if any one is going to straighten these unholy acts in our Hindu society.
I told the priest, that we had enough in Allahabad at the hands of various people like him who gave us experience like in Hell, and we were certain not to have any place in hell.
They kept quiet upon my yelling at them as above, and agreed to accept what ever we could spare for them. My FIL, collected 5 liters of holy water from the confluence for taking home. (He used that for rituals in his house, and gave all the fellow residents few ounces of it as many of the resident were not in a position to take pilgrimage to Kasi. We paid Rs.one only – in changes for the whole thing performed by us.
We returned to our hotel by 5PM.We decided to have some south Indian dishes for the evening and ordered 5 meals for Rs.17 only. We decided to leave for Kasi by Bombay-Varanasi Express next day at 6.45 AM, the night was pleasant with cold air coming from the desert cooler.
The day’s expense stood at Rs.169.95 (details in my 1981 diary.)
We were very reluctant to get up in the morning, but for continuing our journey on time and got up at 5AM in the morning of Tuesday 12-10-1981, and reached the station by 6.30 AM.
We boarded a coach marked- BOMBAY-ALLAHABAD- that was to be attached to the train was to travel to Varanasi. The coach was empty and had three tier arrangements. We spoke to a TTE and learned that this coach was going to Varanasi. So, we were comfortable, thinking of our first leg of the tour from Delhi.
Aword about Sheeba and Satish – They both were very quiet, till they saw an ice-cream vendor, or a toy seller, or anything else that were attractive to children of their age. My father in law was conceding to their demands / commands, and so was quiet – I realized.
We reached VARANASI at 4PM and the first thing I tried was to get reservation to Calcutta. Later I decided to try again after the day’s routines. This was a good decision, as we were to leave for Gaya for some more rituals and then only to leave for Calcutta.
We met some returning pilgrims, who were waiting to board trains to different destinations as; they had completed their rituals in Kasi. They warned us of rippers waiting to fleece us in the name of religion and rituals – waiting like hungry wolves.
My FIL, had the addresses of priests in Hanuman Ghat who did ceremonies to his ancestors during their visit many years ago. Here please note that, every family whose members regularly (once in a life time) came to Varanasi, had a reference with a priest whose family also did the ceremonies since many generations and continuing.
So, we knew whom to contact there. It was one Mr.Vaidyanathan s/o Shri.Viswanatha Vadyar of Kallidaikurichi, and we went there to his house. He gave us a warm welcome and surprised us by telling about my FIL’s ancestors, for whom his ancestors also performed the ceremonies then. Hence we all felt very safe in his place. We were given lodging on the third floor of his house except for my FIL and MIL who were pretty old and could not climb to 3 floors. Incidentally, I learned that, it was Shri. Viswanatha Vadyar; who, accommodated my paternal grand parents in 1958 and, helped them to perform all relevant rituals then.
We were introduced to a nearby café – Mysore café- for our homely food. Here snacks are served / sold at the front of the café, while lunch and dinner are served with prior order at the back of the café.
This system was introduced to cater the need of the aged and elderly pilgrims whose requirement varied with individuals coming from different parts of the country, and the food was always very light.
FIL went to meet the Priest – Viswanath- to discuss about the rituals / ceremony to be performed on the next day. The day’s expense was Rs.552.40 including advance to Priest. (500 only)
We got up very early the next day, Wednesday the 13th of May 1981 as both my in-laws had to leave for the ghat. I fetched coffee for my in-laws as; they had to leave early with the priest. Then we had coffee and breakfast (Rs.11 only)
The first part of the ceremony was over by 8.30 AM. For the next part I accompanied them, as we had to go into the holy river Ganges. By the grace of Lord Viswanath, everything was done without much fatigue to my in-laws. We also had the darshan of Lord Viswanath without much trouble.
On the Bank of Ganges, we saw regular delivery of so many dead bodies, and wondered where are they coming from?.
We came home after the day’s ceremonies and jointly had our first lunch in varanasi, at 12.15 hrs and, relaxed for a while. The boatman – Kalicharan who accompanied us in the morning was also the servant of the priest. At 2 PM, Kallicharan, arranged four rickshaws for us to go round in varanasi. We went to the Temple of Lord Viswanath and had full darshan of the Lingam inside the small pond. The priest won’t allow any one to feel the Lingam except for a large sum of money. I quietly, ran my right hand thru the pond and made noise, just to divrt the attention of the priests for a while, to stay there for some more time. The priests looked like way side robbers or similar ones from chambal valley.
We all came out and, discussed between us as to who was able to feel the Lord in the form of Lingam, and I confirmed my experience.
Later it was real darshan – at the UP silk emporium- as each one wanted kasi silk as a token of our visit to the silk city.
BENARES SILK IS FAMOUS ALL OVER THE WORLD particularly AMONG SOUTH INDIAN LADIES.
We all had our own individual financial shortage, as no one ever thought of buying a silk sari from here and hence not prepared and expected some one to foot the bill. My FIL, agreed to spare his purse and we all chose one sari for each and one for my mother as well.
No with this liberty, each one started dictating their own term to the sales man on Mr.Nandakumar- from Kerala, who helped us to arrive at a decision for reasonably priced saris.
It was agreed that, the saris will be send thru; bank, and we only had to pay a down cash of 10% of the total value.(This was the rule by the government of UP rule for promoting the sale of Kasi silk saris) My FIL put his signature at the corner of all saris with date. (Paid Rs.385.00) While we were very happy, FIL was thinking about bridging the deficit caused by this sudden and huge expense incurred unexpectedly.
We reached home after the tour of the city, and had light dinner and went to bed early. The day’s activities included – fetching Ganges water in 5 small pots, purchase of Kum kum, black thread, books, ice-cream for children, boat charges etc;- Rs.521.60 only including advance payment for saris.)
We chartered our plans for the next day and beyond.
Complete all rituals in Kasi by 11AM on 14-5-1981.
Leave for GAYA by train at 1PM
Complete all ceremonies in Gaya by the next day (15-5-1981).
Leave for Calcutta in the evening / Night.
We got up as usual, on Thursday the 14th of May 1981, and went to the bank of the river Ganges for a quick dip in the river. Sheeba was very much afraid to get into the river, as she saw a dead body of a buffalo floating in-front of Sheeba. Saro managed to get her a quick dip and we also finished our last bath there. The Ganges was very dirty and filthy even near the bank / bathing Ghats.
We were home and got ready for our next leg of journey. There were 13 persons (A very auspicious number?) going to Gaya with one Mr.Gaya Subramania Sasthri – who was chosen by our KASI priest.He had an elderly widow to assist in all rituals.
We were given few tips – rather cautious steps to be followed during our railway journey to Gaya.
Gaya is notorious for all sorts of crimes including dacoit and murder besides daredevil robberies from train passengers – the pilgrims.
The people from Gaya are nick named GAYAWALIS –a bad example-set in Tamilnadu and referred as well.
He said, for this reason only, people took a short return trip to Gaya from Varanasi and went back from Varanasi only. We could not do so, as we were traveling to Calcutta. We prayed few extra times for our safety at all levels of travels till reaching back Ghaziabd.
We were advised not to open our compartment section door till Mr.Subramaniam comes at the end of the journey at Gaya Railway station.
We left our residence at Hanuman Ghat at 1.30 Pm, and reached Mugal Sarai Railway station.( 16KM from Varanasi) We reached the station and the passenger train was already on the platform. The priest took us into a coach with Ladies section- with a door, and locked all 13 of us inside. he space was enough and we could seat in a balanced way sharing the available seats. He reminded us not to open the door till he himself emerges at Gaya station. The train left Mugal sarai at 3.45 PM.
We got plenty of bananas at every stop and that was our staple food till we reached Gaya. As the day light started dimming, the remainder part of our coach was getting filled denser and denser – as we could hear all sorts of languages and noisy expressions.
There was no light at all in any of the areas the train passed through, and we wondered if we were in a jungle or in an uncivilized part of the world. No wonder dacoits are lured in this part with no control over them.
We reached Gaya railway station at 9.40 PM. Our priest came from some where and led us thru’ the platform to the exit. I saw him handing over some money to the checking staff at the exit. I could guess what it could be and did not mention about it to any one.
Our priest told us that the train had come on time for the first time in many years and he felt that it was a good sign for events to come the next day.
We hired Tongas to take us to the place of stay. This was on the banks of river SONE BADRA. We were very hungry. On the advice of our priest, we procured puris and baaji made of yellow gourd. We also procured some hot milk for next day’s coffee. There was moon light, star light besides the street lights.
We reached our place of dwelling – a charity home by Kanchi Sankaracharya. The priest introduced me to one Mr.Kanaya Lal’s son for all help. Kanaya Lal was the sitting MLA for this area.
In the middle of the night, he agreed to get us reservation to Calcutta by the next evening’s train leaving Gaya. We paid Rs.25 as bribe- service charge for this most needed help.
He sorted our room requirement – for 13 of us. The ceiling fans were at a height of more than 30 ft above us and we hardly felt the stream of air on us. It was hot and humid. There were large tamarind trees, in the neighborhood, aged over 70 or 80 years and very large in diameter. I saw them as I walked with the agent, and just recalled the narrations in stories about GHOSTS of tamarind trees.
The total expense for the day was Rs.172.90
It was already well over 1AM of Friday the 15th of May 1981 and we had our dinner quickly and tried to close our eyes for the rest of the night. We literally sank into deep sleep.
We woke up very early in the morning, as my in-laws were to go with the priest for the day’s rituals. I made coffee using the milk procured on the previous night. Only FIL had a sip of it. It was hot and humid at 6AM. I managed to locate a small outfit which provides idlys and dosa – south Indian dishes. This was run by a couple in a place closer to our residence. There was a temple for Lord Vishnu there. (They were Brahmins from Kerala.)
I had my breakfast with coffee and fetched 6 sets for others. I also ordered food for lunch and dinner – for our onward journey to Calcutta.
Both my parent-in-laws came back by 10AM, looked very tired. I learned that the priest made them to wait for long while taking the turn of the other people. After brief rest, we went the temple of Lord Maha Vishnu. The legend says that the original foot print is still cast there and is being worshipped. We also worshipped the original foot print of Lord Vishnu. We purchased few replicas of the foot prints made of copper.
In the temple, we witnessed child marriage to 100 odd children. They were in the age group of 8.
Since the restaurant was close by we had our lunch there. Once we had our lunch, we got back to life. The road was very bad, with fine stones that nearly penetrated into our bare foot. We then returned to our inn, and took rest till 3PM.
In the evening our tickets were delivered and we were then sure of traveling to Calcutta. Then we bade farewell to the priest Gaya Subramania Sasthrigal and other people who accompanied us.
I went to the restaurant at 4 pm but nothing was available, and I was asked to come back after 5pm.
So, at 5pm, we went to the restaurant (excluding FIL and MIL), had hot snacks and coffee, Procured some items for dinner and some items for FIL and MIL.
We were home by 5.30pm, took some rest, and set off to the Gaya railway station. We reached the station by 6.30 pm. We came very early to station, to avoid traveling late in the evening to station as we were advised of dangerous people who could trouble us. The train was only due to leave by 10.00 pm only.
We took rest in the designated waiting hall till about 9.30 and moved to the platform where the train was due to arrive. The Doon express arrived on time, and we boarded the coach, where our name was displayed on the reservation list. There were too many people who nearly blocked our entry, but we managed to reach our seats / berths.
We went inside the ladies’ section for our dinner, as this section was empty. One old lady objected, to our entry, but we explained to her the situation and she obliged to spare the area for taking our dinner.
Sheeba was enjoying her dinner with sambar as we were negotiating with the lady. We carried with us a full earthen pot of water besides dinner and there was no problem for anything else.
Our expense for the day was Rs.313.20
We reached Howrah (Calcutta) station at 7.50 am on Saturday the 16th of May 1981. My FIL, went out on the platform and looked for his friends who were expected to receive us on that day. Since, we were delayed in our schedule; no one was there to welcome us. My FIL, had written to 4 or 5 friends about our possible arrival without any confirmed date of travel. So, we went to one the friend’s house situated on 6B, Manohar Parker Road. We felt the cold breeze and greenery around reminding us of Kerala.
We were received by Mr.Narayanan who welcomed us. He explained to us that they were frequenting to the Railway station every day in the past few days, but gave up as we had his address.
After a brief conversation, he took us to KOMALAM LODGE behind his house. Mr.Narayanan had already booked rooms for us without mentioning the date. So, there was no problem for the lodge keeper to offer us all facilities required.
The arrangement was like this:
We had one large double bed room, meant for 4 persons, got extra bed for 2 more persons. We paid, a normal rent of Rs.80 for double room, and 10 each for the two additional beds. This was the best, cheapest accommodation which also satisfied our requirement for aspects. We could still feel it was bit more expensive – concerning our financial condition then.
We were left there by Narayanan, for us to complete the morning routines, and assured us that he will be informing all other friends of FIL, about our arrival on that day. We managed to finish our routines fast.
While we were having coffee, Mr. Natrajan and Narayanan arrived and joined us for coffee. I went out with them to get myself familiarized about the surroundings. I was shown the places for having breakfast, lunch and dinner besides snacks. All these places were close to each other and served meals three times a day. But, each outlet was famous for its own variety of food. So, there were few for the said meals of a day.
The very first thing I did was procuring the day’s news paper and some magazines. We could not find any in the previous days since leaving Ghaziabad. On the road side platforms, I saw fresh flowers, which reminded me of the flower markets in Erode, Coimbatore and Madras.
I bought a bunch of flowers for Rs.2. later by 12.30 hrs, we went out for lunch. We were served lunch on banana leaves @4 Rs. per person.
After lunch, we walked around the area. There were fruit shops all over the place. We procured assorted fruits including apples, mangoes etc; we discussed about our next move – purchase in Calcutta! / Sight seeing- of the city’s famous / historical places. We also learned that our return journey tickets were also booked for 20th May 1981.We had no bookings in any other train, and this available one was to travel in JANATHA EXPRESS – a kind of a slow express train slightly faster than the conventional passenger train!
This means, we had to remain in Calcutta for another 4 days!
My FIL, started worrying again, but then told that that he found a way to tide over the situation. (I knew of it and not mentioning it here for the sake of my commitment to him)
We could have managed without the formulae of my FIL, had I took the 1000 rupees kept in reserve in Ghaziabad. The short fall was again due to our advance payment of Rs.400 to saris at Varanasi.
Sheeba ands Satish found plenty of space in the lodge and always paled indoors. Whenever we were in the room, they spent their time by watching from the room window, counting the number of buses and trams passed our lodge. They saw double decked buses and were very much excited. Each had different numbers and disputed and ended in quarreling about whom saw more such buses or trams. My FIL gave his counted numbers to keep them quiet.
We took rest for the whole day- getting over the tiredness of the previous 6 days.
The day’s expenses came to Rs.141.00 only.
We woke up, to another new day in Calcutta, on Sunday the 17th of May 1981, completed all morning routines, had breakfast and were ready for the day’s city tour. Being Sunday, my FIL’s friends joined us for the first part of the tour.
As first leg of our tour, we went to the VICTORIA MEMORIAL. This placed is of great interest, even to ordinary people as it housed everything about Queen Victoria, British Empire that never had the sun ever set. I purchased a set of souvenirs – picture post cards besides some leaflets.
Here while every one was engaged in the outside tour of the monument, I came across a very aged person, who served in the British there during the time of Queen Victoria. He was retained and kept inside the memorial as he was a kind of a loyal person to the Royal, plus he had no other place to go. He told me of a lot of gossip about the queen and I enjoyed it. His memory was very sharp and I could listen to his narrations / revelations with rapt attention. His English language proficiency was of very high standard. I promised him that I will never pass the information to anyone else, ever.
The next leg of our tour was to visit the PLANETORIUM. From outside, one could see nothing, but, once you entered the dome, you are in a different world altogether. The whole set was like our solar system. On the day of our visit, the program was about sun set on the Polar Regions – named THE MIDNIGHT SUN.
The space inside the planetarium was fully air-conditioned. The entry ticket was priced at Rs.4 per adult. We purchased 13 tickets and went inside to enjoy the program of that time. Each program was of 30 minutes duration, and there were different one for each half an hour.
We enjoyed every minute of the program, which took us to the top of the universe. This planetarium was only one in Asia and second in the world as per the records in 1981.The first one was in Russia. The place was crowded by scholars, students and general public.
The next place of visit was NEHRU CHILDREN’S MUSEUM. Here we had tough time- with Sheeba.
On every floor of the museum, we saw different type of toys meant for children. They were assorted from different countries and each type was specific. Sheeba saw the cubes with numbers / letters, and started crying for them. They were on display from a locked glass box. She demanded that we get them for her. Then Sheeba applied the ultimate weapon – crying - Sheeba kept on crying louder and louder.
(Sheeba was very much upset and kept on crying till we procured similar items for her the next day. We had to buy something for Satish also. This put an end to Sheeba’s woes.)
In the evening we went to KALIGHAT with Mr. Natrajan. We all worshiped Kali there. It was raining heavily and there was no one other than us, and we kept on worshipping Kali as much as many times as possible. We waited in the temple for the rain to recede, and took taxis to Mr.Natrajan’s house in Baliganj for dinner.
Mr.Natrajan’s house was spacious, and comfortable. The rent was low, as he was staying there since 7 years. After dinner, Mr.Natrajan, gave us tickets for the next day for, tour of other places in the city. His sons were also included for our help during the local tours. We were then escorted to our hotel.
We were comfortable and went to bed soon after returning from the day’s programmes.
The days’ expenses came to Rs.166.30 only.
We woke up very early in the morning of Monday the 18th of May 1981.After an early breakfast; we went to the regional tourist office located near the planetarium. Mr.Narayanan helped us in finding our designated tour bus and escorted inside it. The bus left at 7 am and Jain temple was the first stop.
Then we visited, Ramakrishna Ashram, Vivekananda Memorial, Krishna Temple, Museum, and again the Victoria Memorial etc;
We were taken to a large vegetarian restaurant for lunch. We visited the botanical gardens and the lake around, and the famous zoo.
We got down near the Lake as another friend Mr.R.V.N.Swamy- was visiting to meet my FIL. While others were escorted to Mr.Swamy’s house, self and FIL went into the shops nearby.
Later we joined them after 30 minutes in the house. We had snacks and coffee in Mr.Swamy’s house.
Later we returned to our hotel, and had some fruits in place of dinner, as we had enough food till then. We were all happy about the day’s activities and were satisfied about our overall passing of the tour since we left Ghaziabad on the 10th of May 1981. The day’s expenses came to Rs.211.00
The next three days of less tours, but visits to good old friends of my FIL.
So, on Tuesday the 19th of May 1981, we woke up very peacefully, with all activities at our disposal and completed our morning routines. We were invited by one Mr.Ramakrishnan, a good old friend of my FIL, for lunch. His place of residence was close to our hotel. We went out for purchase in the after noon – There is no chase like purchase.
It was more of window shopping than of any purchase. Still, we purchased some ready made cloths for children back in the native place.
The day’s expense came to Rs.133.10
On the next day, Wednesday, the 20th of May 1981, we vacated our hotel room and went to another friend’s place located at 6B, Manohar Pukur Road. We had our meals with the residents.
Later, in the evening, by 6.30 PM, we went to the Railway station by Taxi. Mr.Narayanan and Mr.Natrajan came to station by local train. We boarded the train and into our coach and there was no problem like what we faced in Delhi.
As we were chatting inside the coach, it seemed that some had lost a suitcase and a big fight was going on the other side of the coach. Though some one clarified if we have seen anyone running with a red suit case, we replied negative and the person went away. We did not know what happened afterwards.
The train – Summer special Janatha Express left Howrah at 8.50 PM and we bade farewell to Calcutta.
The day’s expenses including total Hotel bills, cost of return tickets to Ghaziabad, all came to Rs.984.50.
On Thursday, the 21st of May 1981, we were inside the train – Janatha Express traveling back to Ghaziabad. Though we were in a reserved coach, we still felt the tiredness of the past 10 days’ activities. We survived on cucumber, leches, bananas, oranges and puri baaji besides ice-creams. It all came to Rs.31.10 – not bad is isn’t it?
Sheeba became friendly with a lady passenger, who gave her enough puri –baaji for consumption. Satish managed with other items. It seemed that the journey was taking more than necessary time as it was running like a slow passenger train. The only consolation was it was moving forward!
On Friday, the 22nd of May 1981, we reached Ghaziabad, at 10am. We came home by 11.30am and were very happy to be home at E-53 Old Raj Nagar. Immediately, I checked the steel cupboard to make sure nothing was forgotten. Everything was inside – as I feared lost them in transit.
The real kasi Yatra came to an end after 12 days of hard journey and tiring tour. None of us are responsible for the success of this tour, but GOD the almighty Himself.
It is not due to our wisdom that we returned safely, but for HIS blessings. Though, everything seemed like a dream, the nightmare with which we set out on 10-5-1981, still haunts all of us. In reality, every moment of the program was full of anxieties, and uncertainties.
I decided to compile this brief write up for the sake of any one venturing like us in future.
The only factor that might create question will be the cost of such a tour in the coming years.
Our total expense for the entire tour (excluding the charges to the respective priests) came to
Rupees 2899.45 only for six adults and two children
Note:
The forgoing narrations are exact reproduction of my notes written during the tour and the diary maintained then – as of 25th May 1981
One fine morning in the first week April 1981, I received a letter card from my Father-in-law Shri.K.V.Sreenivasa Iyer (KVS) that he wants to fulfill the desire of his beloved wife,(my MIL) which is visiting Kasi before her last breath.
They both have seen the world, as they were in Far East for most of their life, besides visits to many other places in India. He chose my company for three reasons:
1. I knew the local language very well.
2. I’m his youngest son-in-law.
3. I was expected to leave India on an assignment in September 81.
So, I wrote back that he can plan his travel and I should accompany him with my family for guidance and help.
I had no ceiling fan in the bed room, and immediately arranged to fix one (Compton make) at a cost of Rs.400, and also got my house white washed for Rs.150 with material and labor.
I requested my brother Ramakrishnan,(Kalyanam) to help me in organizing tickets accordingly, soon the date of arrival of my FIL was known.
I received confirmation that, my FIL with two of my SIL, grandson Satish and MIL would be arriving in Delhi on 28-5-81, by JJExpress. He had done the reservation by himself from Olavakode Junction.
He also remitted Rs.2000 simultaneously for me to do arrangements for his visit to Varanasi( Kasi.)
Immediately, I contacted my brother Ramakrishnan, for help in booking 6 Tickets to Kasi for any day after 5th of May 81.He, very sincerely, tried and got bookings to Calcutta in the train UPPER INDIA EXPRESS which leaves New Delhi every day, from platform no 13 at 20.10 hrs. (We were on waiting list with an assurance of confirmed berths to be declared 2 hrs before the scheduled time of departure.
My FIL and family arrived at Hazarat Nizamudin Junction in the afternoon of 28-5-81 and we took a taxi home for Rs.100 to reach our house in Old Raj Nagar.
Earlier I had my leave adjusted for 3 days and 15 days at a stretch from 10th of May. So, after a days rest, I took them on a visit to see, few of his family friends living in kalkaji in Delhi and in the vicinity. We traveled by public transport and rickshaws and the total expenses came to Rs.57.60 only – including fruits for hosts which came to Rs.20.00 only.
On Tuesday-the 5th of May1981, we visited Hardwar and Rishikesh. We returned on the next day. I shall write about this trip separately.
To-day, the expenses of those days look very negligible as the prices of everything has escalated in the last 28 years.
I shall show the daily expenses during this tour including the weeks before and after it.
The cooking gas was available for Rs.47.50. We bought a tourist guide- book to Varanasi for Rs.2.00 (TWO only), paid Rs.400.00 for booking 6 tickets to Varanasi, and Rs.450 for 4 and a half Tickets to Bombay (for my FIL family for return trip via Bombay)
The plan was to book a single reservation ticket( for each of us) to Calcutta and break the journey at Allahabad, Varanasi( Kasi) and Gaya – for my INLAWS to perform their religious ceremonies and then go to Calcutta from Gaya. All we had to do was re-confirm our reservations each time and pay for the relevant part of the journey. Return journey was straight, without break
As the day of travel to Varanasi was fast approaching, we were busy organizing everything from food for consumption during travel to dress and toiletries etc; though most of us were adults, we still had two (my daughter Sheeba-3years, and Baby’s son Satish-7years) children to be taken care especially from the point of safety aspects.
My brothers Ramakrishnan , Rajamani and another family friend Gopal, came to see us off safely on this trip. We left home at 15 hrs, and reached New Ghaziabad Railway station- nearest to our colony, in 30 minutes to catch; the available train to New Delhi station. There was a train scheduled passing this station at 3.30 PM, but learned that the said train left already at 14.15 hrs, based on new timings.
So, we rushed to Ghaziabad Railway station, as there are many trains to New Delhi passing this main station. Fortunately we got the next train – a shuttle to ND station. We reached platform 13 at 7PM.My brother Ramakrishnan, went into the station and got our berths confirmed as, he paid an extra amount of Rs.25 per ticket. (Rs 150.00 for SIX tickets to Calcutta)
The train arrived from the yard and we were shocked that all the compartments were already full. People have occupied seats from the yard itself. We tried to get into our compartment and could not do so, as the entrance was also blocked. We managed to get inside around 7.45PM.We were forced to get down at 8PM.
The train was scheduled to leave at 8.10 PM. My brother Kalyanam, quickly went to the booking counter and re-confirmed our berths. In the meantime, we decided to drop the trip and go for next day or whenever possible. Kalyanam, also spoke to the TTE of our coach, who asked us to board the train and he will sort out our berths. So, with great difficulty, we managed to get into the train and stood near our allotted berths.
The scene was like this:
I was very much upset and angry.
Saro - my wife was very much upset with me.
FIL and MIL were undecided what to do next. Mind you, they both were 80 years + young!.
Baby and Thankam (my SILs) lost all hopes of continuing the trip.
Sheeba and Satish were sweating and crying.
Kalyanam, spoke to the passengers who have illegally occupying our berths, and requested them to give seats to my aged in-laws. and they got the space to squeeze in.
The train left the station at 8.20 PM – late by 10 minutes.
We were supposed to travel leisurely with peace of mind, as we were already exhausted due to various trips in the previous days. With a bit of luck, we all got our seats with the help of the TTE. (We did not pay any more bribes besides the Rs150 paid to the booking clerk by my brother.)
I thought of my brother Kalyanam, and thanked him whole heartedly for, without his help, we wouldn’t have started this trip. I get annoyed and angry under this kind of situations while my brother did not!
Gradually, the tension, eased and we had our dinner, as we had enough to consume. We had comfortable journey for the rest of the travel, till we reached Allahabad at 6.30AM on 11-5-1981-Monday.
Within minutes of our stepping down on to the platform at Allahabad Railway station, we were surrounded by rickshaw pullers. Each one suggested a hotel or Inn. Since we had gone thru’ the guide for this town, we went to a hotel named PRAYG HOTEL. We were taken to this hotel by a -tongewala (Horse cart puller). This man helped us by organizing another cart for our city tour in the afternoon. We paid him 5 rupees at the end of the day for his help.
We took a room at 35.00 rupees per day. The room had a water cooler, large enough to freeze the room. We completed all our morning routines, had coffee, good breakfast and took rest till noon.
Later we left for the tour of the city and a trip to Sangam – confluence of Holy rivers- Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswathi.
We went round the city. We could not visit Mothilal Nehru museum as it remained closed on Mondays.
We reached the bank of river Ganges. Then there was fun. Many boatmen nearly trapped us and insisted to take their boat to the confluence. Each one was announcing a rate for this trip, which was exorbitant and was near rip-off rate for any one. Then I started my talk in pure local dialect and they fell silent.
The rates came down drastically from hundreds to tens. We finally agreed for 25 rupees for a return trip to the confluence.
There was much less water in the river Ganges. Here again, as we approached the centre point, the priests grabbed our boat by a long stick and tided it with their one. They pronounced all sorts of rituals to be performed there for salvation and attainment of peaceful death which assured a place in heaven and, demanded a huge sum of money for it.
This is one of many instances, I have seen / experienced, and felt sorry for our orthodox systems that groomed many exploiters, in the society taking advantage of a Hindu’s faith in God. It is doubtful, if any one is going to straighten these unholy acts in our Hindu society.
I told the priest, that we had enough in Allahabad at the hands of various people like him who gave us experience like in Hell, and we were certain not to have any place in hell.
They kept quiet upon my yelling at them as above, and agreed to accept what ever we could spare for them. My FIL, collected 5 liters of holy water from the confluence for taking home. (He used that for rituals in his house, and gave all the fellow residents few ounces of it as many of the resident were not in a position to take pilgrimage to Kasi. We paid Rs.one only – in changes for the whole thing performed by us.
We returned to our hotel by 5PM.We decided to have some south Indian dishes for the evening and ordered 5 meals for Rs.17 only. We decided to leave for Kasi by Bombay-Varanasi Express next day at 6.45 AM, the night was pleasant with cold air coming from the desert cooler.
The day’s expense stood at Rs.169.95 (details in my 1981 diary.)
We were very reluctant to get up in the morning, but for continuing our journey on time and got up at 5AM in the morning of Tuesday 12-10-1981, and reached the station by 6.30 AM.
We boarded a coach marked- BOMBAY-ALLAHABAD- that was to be attached to the train was to travel to Varanasi. The coach was empty and had three tier arrangements. We spoke to a TTE and learned that this coach was going to Varanasi. So, we were comfortable, thinking of our first leg of the tour from Delhi.
Aword about Sheeba and Satish – They both were very quiet, till they saw an ice-cream vendor, or a toy seller, or anything else that were attractive to children of their age. My father in law was conceding to their demands / commands, and so was quiet – I realized.
We reached VARANASI at 4PM and the first thing I tried was to get reservation to Calcutta. Later I decided to try again after the day’s routines. This was a good decision, as we were to leave for Gaya for some more rituals and then only to leave for Calcutta.
We met some returning pilgrims, who were waiting to board trains to different destinations as; they had completed their rituals in Kasi. They warned us of rippers waiting to fleece us in the name of religion and rituals – waiting like hungry wolves.
My FIL, had the addresses of priests in Hanuman Ghat who did ceremonies to his ancestors during their visit many years ago. Here please note that, every family whose members regularly (once in a life time) came to Varanasi, had a reference with a priest whose family also did the ceremonies since many generations and continuing.
So, we knew whom to contact there. It was one Mr.Vaidyanathan s/o Shri.Viswanatha Vadyar of Kallidaikurichi, and we went there to his house. He gave us a warm welcome and surprised us by telling about my FIL’s ancestors, for whom his ancestors also performed the ceremonies then. Hence we all felt very safe in his place. We were given lodging on the third floor of his house except for my FIL and MIL who were pretty old and could not climb to 3 floors. Incidentally, I learned that, it was Shri. Viswanatha Vadyar; who, accommodated my paternal grand parents in 1958 and, helped them to perform all relevant rituals then.
We were introduced to a nearby café – Mysore café- for our homely food. Here snacks are served / sold at the front of the café, while lunch and dinner are served with prior order at the back of the café.
This system was introduced to cater the need of the aged and elderly pilgrims whose requirement varied with individuals coming from different parts of the country, and the food was always very light.
FIL went to meet the Priest – Viswanath- to discuss about the rituals / ceremony to be performed on the next day. The day’s expense was Rs.552.40 including advance to Priest. (500 only)
We got up very early the next day, Wednesday the 13th of May 1981 as both my in-laws had to leave for the ghat. I fetched coffee for my in-laws as; they had to leave early with the priest. Then we had coffee and breakfast (Rs.11 only)
The first part of the ceremony was over by 8.30 AM. For the next part I accompanied them, as we had to go into the holy river Ganges. By the grace of Lord Viswanath, everything was done without much fatigue to my in-laws. We also had the darshan of Lord Viswanath without much trouble.
On the Bank of Ganges, we saw regular delivery of so many dead bodies, and wondered where are they coming from?.
We came home after the day’s ceremonies and jointly had our first lunch in varanasi, at 12.15 hrs and, relaxed for a while. The boatman – Kalicharan who accompanied us in the morning was also the servant of the priest. At 2 PM, Kallicharan, arranged four rickshaws for us to go round in varanasi. We went to the Temple of Lord Viswanath and had full darshan of the Lingam inside the small pond. The priest won’t allow any one to feel the Lingam except for a large sum of money. I quietly, ran my right hand thru the pond and made noise, just to divrt the attention of the priests for a while, to stay there for some more time. The priests looked like way side robbers or similar ones from chambal valley.
We all came out and, discussed between us as to who was able to feel the Lord in the form of Lingam, and I confirmed my experience.
Later it was real darshan – at the UP silk emporium- as each one wanted kasi silk as a token of our visit to the silk city.
BENARES SILK IS FAMOUS ALL OVER THE WORLD particularly AMONG SOUTH INDIAN LADIES.
We all had our own individual financial shortage, as no one ever thought of buying a silk sari from here and hence not prepared and expected some one to foot the bill. My FIL, agreed to spare his purse and we all chose one sari for each and one for my mother as well.
No with this liberty, each one started dictating their own term to the sales man on Mr.Nandakumar- from Kerala, who helped us to arrive at a decision for reasonably priced saris.
It was agreed that, the saris will be send thru; bank, and we only had to pay a down cash of 10% of the total value.(This was the rule by the government of UP rule for promoting the sale of Kasi silk saris) My FIL put his signature at the corner of all saris with date. (Paid Rs.385.00) While we were very happy, FIL was thinking about bridging the deficit caused by this sudden and huge expense incurred unexpectedly.
We reached home after the tour of the city, and had light dinner and went to bed early. The day’s activities included – fetching Ganges water in 5 small pots, purchase of Kum kum, black thread, books, ice-cream for children, boat charges etc;- Rs.521.60 only including advance payment for saris.)
We chartered our plans for the next day and beyond.
Complete all rituals in Kasi by 11AM on 14-5-1981.
Leave for GAYA by train at 1PM
Complete all ceremonies in Gaya by the next day (15-5-1981).
Leave for Calcutta in the evening / Night.
We got up as usual, on Thursday the 14th of May 1981, and went to the bank of the river Ganges for a quick dip in the river. Sheeba was very much afraid to get into the river, as she saw a dead body of a buffalo floating in-front of Sheeba. Saro managed to get her a quick dip and we also finished our last bath there. The Ganges was very dirty and filthy even near the bank / bathing Ghats.
We were home and got ready for our next leg of journey. There were 13 persons (A very auspicious number?) going to Gaya with one Mr.Gaya Subramania Sasthri – who was chosen by our KASI priest.He had an elderly widow to assist in all rituals.
We were given few tips – rather cautious steps to be followed during our railway journey to Gaya.
Gaya is notorious for all sorts of crimes including dacoit and murder besides daredevil robberies from train passengers – the pilgrims.
The people from Gaya are nick named GAYAWALIS –a bad example-set in Tamilnadu and referred as well.
He said, for this reason only, people took a short return trip to Gaya from Varanasi and went back from Varanasi only. We could not do so, as we were traveling to Calcutta. We prayed few extra times for our safety at all levels of travels till reaching back Ghaziabd.
We were advised not to open our compartment section door till Mr.Subramaniam comes at the end of the journey at Gaya Railway station.
We left our residence at Hanuman Ghat at 1.30 Pm, and reached Mugal Sarai Railway station.( 16KM from Varanasi) We reached the station and the passenger train was already on the platform. The priest took us into a coach with Ladies section- with a door, and locked all 13 of us inside. he space was enough and we could seat in a balanced way sharing the available seats. He reminded us not to open the door till he himself emerges at Gaya station. The train left Mugal sarai at 3.45 PM.
We got plenty of bananas at every stop and that was our staple food till we reached Gaya. As the day light started dimming, the remainder part of our coach was getting filled denser and denser – as we could hear all sorts of languages and noisy expressions.
There was no light at all in any of the areas the train passed through, and we wondered if we were in a jungle or in an uncivilized part of the world. No wonder dacoits are lured in this part with no control over them.
We reached Gaya railway station at 9.40 PM. Our priest came from some where and led us thru’ the platform to the exit. I saw him handing over some money to the checking staff at the exit. I could guess what it could be and did not mention about it to any one.
Our priest told us that the train had come on time for the first time in many years and he felt that it was a good sign for events to come the next day.
We hired Tongas to take us to the place of stay. This was on the banks of river SONE BADRA. We were very hungry. On the advice of our priest, we procured puris and baaji made of yellow gourd. We also procured some hot milk for next day’s coffee. There was moon light, star light besides the street lights.
We reached our place of dwelling – a charity home by Kanchi Sankaracharya. The priest introduced me to one Mr.Kanaya Lal’s son for all help. Kanaya Lal was the sitting MLA for this area.
In the middle of the night, he agreed to get us reservation to Calcutta by the next evening’s train leaving Gaya. We paid Rs.25 as bribe- service charge for this most needed help.
He sorted our room requirement – for 13 of us. The ceiling fans were at a height of more than 30 ft above us and we hardly felt the stream of air on us. It was hot and humid. There were large tamarind trees, in the neighborhood, aged over 70 or 80 years and very large in diameter. I saw them as I walked with the agent, and just recalled the narrations in stories about GHOSTS of tamarind trees.
The total expense for the day was Rs.172.90
It was already well over 1AM of Friday the 15th of May 1981 and we had our dinner quickly and tried to close our eyes for the rest of the night. We literally sank into deep sleep.
We woke up very early in the morning, as my in-laws were to go with the priest for the day’s rituals. I made coffee using the milk procured on the previous night. Only FIL had a sip of it. It was hot and humid at 6AM. I managed to locate a small outfit which provides idlys and dosa – south Indian dishes. This was run by a couple in a place closer to our residence. There was a temple for Lord Vishnu there. (They were Brahmins from Kerala.)
I had my breakfast with coffee and fetched 6 sets for others. I also ordered food for lunch and dinner – for our onward journey to Calcutta.
Both my parent-in-laws came back by 10AM, looked very tired. I learned that the priest made them to wait for long while taking the turn of the other people. After brief rest, we went the temple of Lord Maha Vishnu. The legend says that the original foot print is still cast there and is being worshipped. We also worshipped the original foot print of Lord Vishnu. We purchased few replicas of the foot prints made of copper.
In the temple, we witnessed child marriage to 100 odd children. They were in the age group of 8.
Since the restaurant was close by we had our lunch there. Once we had our lunch, we got back to life. The road was very bad, with fine stones that nearly penetrated into our bare foot. We then returned to our inn, and took rest till 3PM.
In the evening our tickets were delivered and we were then sure of traveling to Calcutta. Then we bade farewell to the priest Gaya Subramania Sasthrigal and other people who accompanied us.
I went to the restaurant at 4 pm but nothing was available, and I was asked to come back after 5pm.
So, at 5pm, we went to the restaurant (excluding FIL and MIL), had hot snacks and coffee, Procured some items for dinner and some items for FIL and MIL.
We were home by 5.30pm, took some rest, and set off to the Gaya railway station. We reached the station by 6.30 pm. We came very early to station, to avoid traveling late in the evening to station as we were advised of dangerous people who could trouble us. The train was only due to leave by 10.00 pm only.
We took rest in the designated waiting hall till about 9.30 and moved to the platform where the train was due to arrive. The Doon express arrived on time, and we boarded the coach, where our name was displayed on the reservation list. There were too many people who nearly blocked our entry, but we managed to reach our seats / berths.
We went inside the ladies’ section for our dinner, as this section was empty. One old lady objected, to our entry, but we explained to her the situation and she obliged to spare the area for taking our dinner.
Sheeba was enjoying her dinner with sambar as we were negotiating with the lady. We carried with us a full earthen pot of water besides dinner and there was no problem for anything else.
Our expense for the day was Rs.313.20
We reached Howrah (Calcutta) station at 7.50 am on Saturday the 16th of May 1981. My FIL, went out on the platform and looked for his friends who were expected to receive us on that day. Since, we were delayed in our schedule; no one was there to welcome us. My FIL, had written to 4 or 5 friends about our possible arrival without any confirmed date of travel. So, we went to one the friend’s house situated on 6B, Manohar Parker Road. We felt the cold breeze and greenery around reminding us of Kerala.
We were received by Mr.Narayanan who welcomed us. He explained to us that they were frequenting to the Railway station every day in the past few days, but gave up as we had his address.
After a brief conversation, he took us to KOMALAM LODGE behind his house. Mr.Narayanan had already booked rooms for us without mentioning the date. So, there was no problem for the lodge keeper to offer us all facilities required.
The arrangement was like this:
We had one large double bed room, meant for 4 persons, got extra bed for 2 more persons. We paid, a normal rent of Rs.80 for double room, and 10 each for the two additional beds. This was the best, cheapest accommodation which also satisfied our requirement for aspects. We could still feel it was bit more expensive – concerning our financial condition then.
We were left there by Narayanan, for us to complete the morning routines, and assured us that he will be informing all other friends of FIL, about our arrival on that day. We managed to finish our routines fast.
While we were having coffee, Mr. Natrajan and Narayanan arrived and joined us for coffee. I went out with them to get myself familiarized about the surroundings. I was shown the places for having breakfast, lunch and dinner besides snacks. All these places were close to each other and served meals three times a day. But, each outlet was famous for its own variety of food. So, there were few for the said meals of a day.
The very first thing I did was procuring the day’s news paper and some magazines. We could not find any in the previous days since leaving Ghaziabad. On the road side platforms, I saw fresh flowers, which reminded me of the flower markets in Erode, Coimbatore and Madras.
I bought a bunch of flowers for Rs.2. later by 12.30 hrs, we went out for lunch. We were served lunch on banana leaves @4 Rs. per person.
After lunch, we walked around the area. There were fruit shops all over the place. We procured assorted fruits including apples, mangoes etc; we discussed about our next move – purchase in Calcutta! / Sight seeing- of the city’s famous / historical places. We also learned that our return journey tickets were also booked for 20th May 1981.We had no bookings in any other train, and this available one was to travel in JANATHA EXPRESS – a kind of a slow express train slightly faster than the conventional passenger train!
This means, we had to remain in Calcutta for another 4 days!
My FIL, started worrying again, but then told that that he found a way to tide over the situation. (I knew of it and not mentioning it here for the sake of my commitment to him)
We could have managed without the formulae of my FIL, had I took the 1000 rupees kept in reserve in Ghaziabad. The short fall was again due to our advance payment of Rs.400 to saris at Varanasi.
Sheeba ands Satish found plenty of space in the lodge and always paled indoors. Whenever we were in the room, they spent their time by watching from the room window, counting the number of buses and trams passed our lodge. They saw double decked buses and were very much excited. Each had different numbers and disputed and ended in quarreling about whom saw more such buses or trams. My FIL gave his counted numbers to keep them quiet.
We took rest for the whole day- getting over the tiredness of the previous 6 days.
The day’s expenses came to Rs.141.00 only.
We woke up, to another new day in Calcutta, on Sunday the 17th of May 1981, completed all morning routines, had breakfast and were ready for the day’s city tour. Being Sunday, my FIL’s friends joined us for the first part of the tour.
As first leg of our tour, we went to the VICTORIA MEMORIAL. This placed is of great interest, even to ordinary people as it housed everything about Queen Victoria, British Empire that never had the sun ever set. I purchased a set of souvenirs – picture post cards besides some leaflets.
Here while every one was engaged in the outside tour of the monument, I came across a very aged person, who served in the British there during the time of Queen Victoria. He was retained and kept inside the memorial as he was a kind of a loyal person to the Royal, plus he had no other place to go. He told me of a lot of gossip about the queen and I enjoyed it. His memory was very sharp and I could listen to his narrations / revelations with rapt attention. His English language proficiency was of very high standard. I promised him that I will never pass the information to anyone else, ever.
The next leg of our tour was to visit the PLANETORIUM. From outside, one could see nothing, but, once you entered the dome, you are in a different world altogether. The whole set was like our solar system. On the day of our visit, the program was about sun set on the Polar Regions – named THE MIDNIGHT SUN.
The space inside the planetarium was fully air-conditioned. The entry ticket was priced at Rs.4 per adult. We purchased 13 tickets and went inside to enjoy the program of that time. Each program was of 30 minutes duration, and there were different one for each half an hour.
We enjoyed every minute of the program, which took us to the top of the universe. This planetarium was only one in Asia and second in the world as per the records in 1981.The first one was in Russia. The place was crowded by scholars, students and general public.
The next place of visit was NEHRU CHILDREN’S MUSEUM. Here we had tough time- with Sheeba.
On every floor of the museum, we saw different type of toys meant for children. They were assorted from different countries and each type was specific. Sheeba saw the cubes with numbers / letters, and started crying for them. They were on display from a locked glass box. She demanded that we get them for her. Then Sheeba applied the ultimate weapon – crying - Sheeba kept on crying louder and louder.
(Sheeba was very much upset and kept on crying till we procured similar items for her the next day. We had to buy something for Satish also. This put an end to Sheeba’s woes.)
In the evening we went to KALIGHAT with Mr. Natrajan. We all worshiped Kali there. It was raining heavily and there was no one other than us, and we kept on worshipping Kali as much as many times as possible. We waited in the temple for the rain to recede, and took taxis to Mr.Natrajan’s house in Baliganj for dinner.
Mr.Natrajan’s house was spacious, and comfortable. The rent was low, as he was staying there since 7 years. After dinner, Mr.Natrajan, gave us tickets for the next day for, tour of other places in the city. His sons were also included for our help during the local tours. We were then escorted to our hotel.
We were comfortable and went to bed soon after returning from the day’s programmes.
The days’ expenses came to Rs.166.30 only.
We woke up very early in the morning of Monday the 18th of May 1981.After an early breakfast; we went to the regional tourist office located near the planetarium. Mr.Narayanan helped us in finding our designated tour bus and escorted inside it. The bus left at 7 am and Jain temple was the first stop.
Then we visited, Ramakrishna Ashram, Vivekananda Memorial, Krishna Temple, Museum, and again the Victoria Memorial etc;
We were taken to a large vegetarian restaurant for lunch. We visited the botanical gardens and the lake around, and the famous zoo.
We got down near the Lake as another friend Mr.R.V.N.Swamy- was visiting to meet my FIL. While others were escorted to Mr.Swamy’s house, self and FIL went into the shops nearby.
Later we joined them after 30 minutes in the house. We had snacks and coffee in Mr.Swamy’s house.
Later we returned to our hotel, and had some fruits in place of dinner, as we had enough food till then. We were all happy about the day’s activities and were satisfied about our overall passing of the tour since we left Ghaziabad on the 10th of May 1981. The day’s expenses came to Rs.211.00
The next three days of less tours, but visits to good old friends of my FIL.
So, on Tuesday the 19th of May 1981, we woke up very peacefully, with all activities at our disposal and completed our morning routines. We were invited by one Mr.Ramakrishnan, a good old friend of my FIL, for lunch. His place of residence was close to our hotel. We went out for purchase in the after noon – There is no chase like purchase.
It was more of window shopping than of any purchase. Still, we purchased some ready made cloths for children back in the native place.
The day’s expense came to Rs.133.10
On the next day, Wednesday, the 20th of May 1981, we vacated our hotel room and went to another friend’s place located at 6B, Manohar Pukur Road. We had our meals with the residents.
Later, in the evening, by 6.30 PM, we went to the Railway station by Taxi. Mr.Narayanan and Mr.Natrajan came to station by local train. We boarded the train and into our coach and there was no problem like what we faced in Delhi.
As we were chatting inside the coach, it seemed that some had lost a suitcase and a big fight was going on the other side of the coach. Though some one clarified if we have seen anyone running with a red suit case, we replied negative and the person went away. We did not know what happened afterwards.
The train – Summer special Janatha Express left Howrah at 8.50 PM and we bade farewell to Calcutta.
The day’s expenses including total Hotel bills, cost of return tickets to Ghaziabad, all came to Rs.984.50.
On Thursday, the 21st of May 1981, we were inside the train – Janatha Express traveling back to Ghaziabad. Though we were in a reserved coach, we still felt the tiredness of the past 10 days’ activities. We survived on cucumber, leches, bananas, oranges and puri baaji besides ice-creams. It all came to Rs.31.10 – not bad is isn’t it?
Sheeba became friendly with a lady passenger, who gave her enough puri –baaji for consumption. Satish managed with other items. It seemed that the journey was taking more than necessary time as it was running like a slow passenger train. The only consolation was it was moving forward!
On Friday, the 22nd of May 1981, we reached Ghaziabad, at 10am. We came home by 11.30am and were very happy to be home at E-53 Old Raj Nagar. Immediately, I checked the steel cupboard to make sure nothing was forgotten. Everything was inside – as I feared lost them in transit.
The real kasi Yatra came to an end after 12 days of hard journey and tiring tour. None of us are responsible for the success of this tour, but GOD the almighty Himself.
It is not due to our wisdom that we returned safely, but for HIS blessings. Though, everything seemed like a dream, the nightmare with which we set out on 10-5-1981, still haunts all of us. In reality, every moment of the program was full of anxieties, and uncertainties.
I decided to compile this brief write up for the sake of any one venturing like us in future.
The only factor that might create question will be the cost of such a tour in the coming years.
Our total expense for the entire tour (excluding the charges to the respective priests) came to
Rupees 2899.45 only for six adults and two children
Note:
The forgoing narrations are exact reproduction of my notes written during the tour and the diary maintained then – as of 25th May 1981
Monday, October 26, 2009
Life in Ghaziabad-1969
Life in Ghaziabad
In Ghaziabad, I lived with my youngest maternal uncle Mr.K.K.Subramanian. My uncle was Production Manager for M/s. Unichem Labs – a pharmaceutical company situated at Mohan Nagar. Later this factory was shifted to Industrail Area on the Meerut Road.
After my uncle got married in 1970,(24th of August, to be precise) I shifted to Old Raj Nager – close to my factory, and lived with 5 other fellow staff in a rented flat.
The rent was only Rs.140.00 per month, and had two rooms besides a bathroom and open terrace above the roof. The flat was very spacious and we had no trouble in living there. In reality, we never met together due to our working hours. We prepared food at night on rotation basis and ate at our convenience- as each one was on his own schedule.
Our highest grocery bill was Rs.600.00 per month. Vegetable cost was very marginal – as we procured seasonal vegetables only- just to site an example, green peas was procured at 00.15 paisa per kilo, Potao was delivered at door step in a measure called DHADI, for Rs.10.00 per sack.
The cost of other vegetables was also in this range and so was the pricing of fruits. Raw wheat was sold at 15 paisa per kilo- imported from USA under PL480 scheme. We procured 10 kg at a time, washed and dried it and made flour at 10 paisa for grinding 10 Kg wheat. The only trouble was removing the chaff from the flour, and this was done on rotation again.
Before started living in Raj Nagar, I was living with my uncle in Gandhi Nagar. On days, when my uncle was staying back at Delhi on week ends; I invited friends – 2 max.-for snack or tea. On one occasion, I was asked to make some Urad dal Vada.
In good faith, I made urad dal paste and added some pepper seeds for taste.My friends came as scheduled. I boiled oil and started making a round sized urad dal paste, to be dipped into the oil. But, the circular paste did not hold, and slipped into the oil bath.
I managed to push in 4 or 5 vadas. But not one was round, and each one was of different in shape and size. I realized the defect – too much water in the paste. Though this product was delicious, the oil was gone in no time. We squeezed oil out of the odd shaped vada’s and only ate the cooked vada paste.
In the subsequent years, I perfected the art of making vada and made a lot, while living in Old Rajnagar.
During this period, my friends were staying in the village named Sehani. I made visits to see the life of my friends in this U.P village.
One fine morning, I went there by cycle. It was hot summer day though dry. I saw my friend washing his terline pants with VIM powder. I was shocked, that he was using VIM powder instead of a suitable detergent.
When I clarified, he told me his friends in the village had told him to do so, as VIM cleans everything. He could not do anything more except soak it in clean water and dry it.
After an hour or so, we saw this piece of clothe has become a rag without any shine at all. He nearly cried as the most expensive pants were no more.
I explained to him that, VIM is suitable for cleaning vessels / utensils which are used in cooking food. The tragedy was the person who told him to use it for washing the linen was also ignorant in this matter.
My uncle took me to the weekly market once in a while. He taught me how to count money in Hindi to deal with the vendors. The literature Hindi as it is, could not help me in the streets. He purchased a brand new Hercules Cycle for my regular movements within the city besides attending to work. The cost of this cycle at that time (1970) was Rs.260.00 only.
I used this cycle – I called it my TWO WHEELER – to the maximum advantage to me. This cycle, carried my wife, and daughter on its back and front respectively to hospitals and to neighbors places. It was stolen by my neighbor when living in Old Raj nagar. I knew the culprit but did not want to create hell for him. This fellow was also making illicit liquor and was caught red handed and was thrashed and sent to jail. I thought that he got what he deserved.
I purchased another cycle, but it never replaced my first one.
In Gandhi Nagar, the land lord retained all the news paper paid by my uncle. I started taking over from the time I started living there. Shamelessly, he asked me to leave it with him and take it after he finished reading it. But, I refused and took the paper directly from the vendor in the early hours of the day- everyday. I also fetched milk, from the neighborhood vendor who brought his buffalos twice a day.
While staying in Gandhi Nagar, I familiarized with most South Indian friends who were all some sort of Executives working for companies like Tata Oil Co, Hindustan lever, and some banks.
One day, I met one grocery shop keeper – Mr.Banarsi Lal Gupta- , who had just opened a small shop. He offered, South Indian items – like chips, pickles, coffee powder, etc; for which one has to go to Delhi in those days. He requested me to take him to all the south Indian families living there, for him to make a request to buy grocery from his shop.
I took him to all these people. They were very happy to avail his service as it saved them a trip to Delhi and the time involved. Gupta, became a house hold name and became a very well known vndor in Gandhi Nagar.
He always helped all of us in getting the scarcest item on any day. For example, he got us Kerosene during the war times around 70-72. Now his shop is the biggest one, in that area, and besides he had developed many more. Mr.Gupta is not around any more. His son Pappu is looking after the business – as I learned recently, from other friends living there.
In Ghaziabad, I lived with my youngest maternal uncle Mr.K.K.Subramanian. My uncle was Production Manager for M/s. Unichem Labs – a pharmaceutical company situated at Mohan Nagar. Later this factory was shifted to Industrail Area on the Meerut Road.
After my uncle got married in 1970,(24th of August, to be precise) I shifted to Old Raj Nager – close to my factory, and lived with 5 other fellow staff in a rented flat.
The rent was only Rs.140.00 per month, and had two rooms besides a bathroom and open terrace above the roof. The flat was very spacious and we had no trouble in living there. In reality, we never met together due to our working hours. We prepared food at night on rotation basis and ate at our convenience- as each one was on his own schedule.
Our highest grocery bill was Rs.600.00 per month. Vegetable cost was very marginal – as we procured seasonal vegetables only- just to site an example, green peas was procured at 00.15 paisa per kilo, Potao was delivered at door step in a measure called DHADI, for Rs.10.00 per sack.
The cost of other vegetables was also in this range and so was the pricing of fruits. Raw wheat was sold at 15 paisa per kilo- imported from USA under PL480 scheme. We procured 10 kg at a time, washed and dried it and made flour at 10 paisa for grinding 10 Kg wheat. The only trouble was removing the chaff from the flour, and this was done on rotation again.
Before started living in Raj Nagar, I was living with my uncle in Gandhi Nagar. On days, when my uncle was staying back at Delhi on week ends; I invited friends – 2 max.-for snack or tea. On one occasion, I was asked to make some Urad dal Vada.
In good faith, I made urad dal paste and added some pepper seeds for taste.My friends came as scheduled. I boiled oil and started making a round sized urad dal paste, to be dipped into the oil. But, the circular paste did not hold, and slipped into the oil bath.
I managed to push in 4 or 5 vadas. But not one was round, and each one was of different in shape and size. I realized the defect – too much water in the paste. Though this product was delicious, the oil was gone in no time. We squeezed oil out of the odd shaped vada’s and only ate the cooked vada paste.
In the subsequent years, I perfected the art of making vada and made a lot, while living in Old Rajnagar.
During this period, my friends were staying in the village named Sehani. I made visits to see the life of my friends in this U.P village.
One fine morning, I went there by cycle. It was hot summer day though dry. I saw my friend washing his terline pants with VIM powder. I was shocked, that he was using VIM powder instead of a suitable detergent.
When I clarified, he told me his friends in the village had told him to do so, as VIM cleans everything. He could not do anything more except soak it in clean water and dry it.
After an hour or so, we saw this piece of clothe has become a rag without any shine at all. He nearly cried as the most expensive pants were no more.
I explained to him that, VIM is suitable for cleaning vessels / utensils which are used in cooking food. The tragedy was the person who told him to use it for washing the linen was also ignorant in this matter.
My uncle took me to the weekly market once in a while. He taught me how to count money in Hindi to deal with the vendors. The literature Hindi as it is, could not help me in the streets. He purchased a brand new Hercules Cycle for my regular movements within the city besides attending to work. The cost of this cycle at that time (1970) was Rs.260.00 only.
I used this cycle – I called it my TWO WHEELER – to the maximum advantage to me. This cycle, carried my wife, and daughter on its back and front respectively to hospitals and to neighbors places. It was stolen by my neighbor when living in Old Raj nagar. I knew the culprit but did not want to create hell for him. This fellow was also making illicit liquor and was caught red handed and was thrashed and sent to jail. I thought that he got what he deserved.
I purchased another cycle, but it never replaced my first one.
In Gandhi Nagar, the land lord retained all the news paper paid by my uncle. I started taking over from the time I started living there. Shamelessly, he asked me to leave it with him and take it after he finished reading it. But, I refused and took the paper directly from the vendor in the early hours of the day- everyday. I also fetched milk, from the neighborhood vendor who brought his buffalos twice a day.
While staying in Gandhi Nagar, I familiarized with most South Indian friends who were all some sort of Executives working for companies like Tata Oil Co, Hindustan lever, and some banks.
One day, I met one grocery shop keeper – Mr.Banarsi Lal Gupta- , who had just opened a small shop. He offered, South Indian items – like chips, pickles, coffee powder, etc; for which one has to go to Delhi in those days. He requested me to take him to all the south Indian families living there, for him to make a request to buy grocery from his shop.
I took him to all these people. They were very happy to avail his service as it saved them a trip to Delhi and the time involved. Gupta, became a house hold name and became a very well known vndor in Gandhi Nagar.
He always helped all of us in getting the scarcest item on any day. For example, he got us Kerosene during the war times around 70-72. Now his shop is the biggest one, in that area, and besides he had developed many more. Mr.Gupta is not around any more. His son Pappu is looking after the business – as I learned recently, from other friends living there.
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