STORY-ELEPHANT FARM

FARM

Sarala and I are of the same age. She is my cousin, from her mother’s side and we used to meet often whenever there is a feast. During vacation, she used to stay in my house, because of the river; we used to swim to the opposite bank, even after we became mature, causing criticism from elders.  But she never bothered.

After school, we decided to join the same college., which was near my house. She has her own car, so we used to come to my house often, though she stayed in ladies’ hostel. We both chose Botany as our subject.

One day I told her:”Saru, I have an idea; you may laugh, but I am serious. I want to have an elephant farm.”

She laughed :”Elephants? They are cumbersome; goat or cow would be better.” “What comparison? Don’t you like to see elephants?”

“Seeing from a distance is different. I am afraid to go near them” Then I explained the idea. “Elephants, both male and female, must be allowed to mingle freely, so that we may have kids. Do you not realize the potential? Only thing is they must get food and water. We must grow a bamboo forest. Water can be stored in a check dam in the canal, near our college.  The forest may extend to our west, where the paddy fields are lying fallow; to the eastern hills in the abandoned rubber plantation”

“Where do you get many cow elephants?” “The problem can be solved by importing them from Assam. Here your father can help. If we can convince him, he will invest money and reap the benefits.” She thought for some time, but said nothing. “The first thing is the bamboo forest. We will meet the Principal and seek permission for planting trees.” Thus we met Madam. She heard patiently and said:”We have no funds; I will consult the management and try to get permission; that is all I can do. No one will object tree plantation. Bamboo is a tree only.”

Then we went to the Agricultural University and procured saplings. With money coming from Sarala’s father, the bamboo forest became a reality. By the time we passed MSc. a big forest of trees , extending for kilometers, became a great attraction. During festival season, elephants were brought by mahouts and parked in the forest. The check dam was made by the Panchayath. Only cow elephants were absent.

 Sarala’s father retired from the Forest department. Now he is very much interested and he too came with us to Assam. We remained there for quite some time, as cow elephants were not captured from the forest. When we showed them the photos of the forest in the College and explained our project, they whole heartedly approved it and we came back, only after a train load of cow elephants were loaded

Sarala’s father commented ,”I never knew that Vinoj is so brilliant; now I have no hesitation, in giving my daughter to him”

TODAY IS FEBRUARY FIRST

 I like February. It has only twenty eight days; so we get salary three days earlier than January.

I got my first promotion in February. Why not we have twelve months of twenty eight days and one extra month in the year as a bonus ? 

Think of it.

MAOISTS- AGAIN

MAOISTS- AGAIN

It is reported that sleeping cells of Maoist activists, have been identified by the police, after their attack  on National Highway Office at Kalamassery. They raided the hostel, attached to Maharajas’s college, Ernakulam, but could not find any one.

According to the Police, the Maoists are planning a regional meeting in Kochi on 7^th of February. All police stations have been alerted.

HISTORY-STONE AGE

CAVEMEN

It is interesting to imagine, how our ancestors lived in caves, perhaps millions of years ago.

Caves are natural formations in the rock system of mountains, formed by the action of the weather and rain water, dissolving minerals, which get carried away to the sea. Ellora caves are the best example. A number of people may live there, protected from the Sun and rain. They were naked. They did not know any language; they could make sounds like animals or clap or whistle. The lived by hunting. They may surround an  animal , like the cow or deer and kill them, by hitting hard on the head or back. Stones were the only tools known and hence the name stone age. After killing it, and skinning, the raw flesh was bitten off and chewed well for minutes, before swallowing it. Children were fed mother’s milk, till they developed teeth. Our canine teeth may be longer at that time. The process of hunting, killing and eating may take the whole day.

Have you thought of the long hair we have? Well, at that time, it was protection against rain and Sun, like a turban. Now, it is only an attraction for women. Lord Shiva is an example of the cave man. He rode a bull; well, the caveman too must have used this type of vehicle.

At that time, woman was the head of the family, like the queen bee. All women  will go on producing children ; rate of death among children, may also be high. The discovery of fire, in cooking flesh made a big change. Fire can be made, by hard stone hitting another stone, producing sparks. This method is used in making fire, in yagam by Namboodiris. Here too, the wife of the person doing yagam has a venerable status. The skinning of the animal is done by stones. Flesh is eaten by Namboodiris, who will be excommunicated, if meat is eaten in a hotel!

Use of clay was made, after a long time, in making balls used as bricks in making houses, marking the end of caveman. In the caves, making  cartoons of men an animals began, as also, painting these, with the colours, obtained from leaves and flowers.

DIARY (31-1-2015)

DIARY (31-1-2015)

Today, I inaugurated the new toilet.

As it is detached from the main building, the view is new. Fittings are better than that of the old house. Any way, it is pleasant because it is new.

 In the morning, I went to see my friend C.V.Krishnan. I had to walk some distance, to reach the bus stop. There was a woman who too was waiting for the bus. A number of buses passed by, without stopping, though we held our hand up, indicating for a stop. People told me, it is their general practice to run without stopping, unless more people are there, to board the bus. I had to walk for about half an hour, in the Sun, before I got an auto.  To whom, should I complain? The stop was, between Cherpu west and Electicity Office stop.

KERALAM-12

WALK

One day, I was late in returning home, at Manavazhy. After circumventing the Elamkunnu hill, I came in front of the cupola. It was dark and I slipped, falling flat. When I came home, I found that my knee was smeared with blood. I went to the bath room and washed with water and then soap. I did not tell my wife. It was healed in a couple of days.

One day, there was no water in the tank and our electric supply failed. The line man came and examined, when he found that the meter is damaged. Afterwards I went o the Office at Cherpu. They said I have to deposit the money for a new meter. All formalities were completed and we got a new meter after ten days. During these days, we had to draw water from the well, near the kitchen. For taking bath, we went to the pond of Damu’s house. 

JAYANTHY NATARAJAN EXPLODES A BOMB

JAYANTHY NATARAJAN EXPLODES A BOMB

Jayanthy Natarajan was the Union Minister for Environment for a long time, before the elections.

It is a very sensitive department, as a number of Industries have to get clearance, for setting up their plants from the Minister. It was rumored that she held up or gave clearance, for extracting money. Modi, who was the Prime Ministerial candidate, called it the ‘Jayanthy Tax’.

Now, it has been revealed by a dependable officer, under her, that she used to keep the files in Madras and call the concerned person there, before clearing the file. This is a very serious matter, affecting the security of the Central Government, as files are not to be taken out of the secretariat.

I am sure the PM will take action, after proper enquiry.

STORY-MOBILE

MOBILE

I was in Delhi. Seeing an ad by a mobile phone company, I too applied for sales man’s post. There were a number of young men like me and we were given training in use of these new instrument, unknown till then. To contact people in walled societies, guarded by watchmen, I had to wear coat and tie and look impressive. I first went to Mayur Vihar Ph. 2

Generally, young girls took more interest in this new instrument. A young Lady was very enthusiastic. She learned how to use it and told me to wait. She gave me several land phone numbers and told me to contact her friends, who are sure to buy mobile phones. “How can I test this?” I told her to go to her bed room and call me in my mobile. I waited. “Can you hear me?” she asked. “yes “ “Please have tea with me.” After some time, she came with tea. “Where do you stay?”

“It is nearby, in the slums.”

“I cannot believe it. You are so handsome; do not look like a poor boy.”

“We were not poor. Father had a tea shop at home, in Andhra. Grandfather got entangled in debt and we had to do something for a living. My uncle is here. It was he who suggested this tea shop.”

“Oh, I am sorry to hear this. I like to have your friendship. Will you come in the evening ,when you are free?”

I sold a number of phones that day, then I called her. “Madam, I am Vinod. Are you free?””Yes. Come immediately”. She received me with a smile, which I remember to this day. She is dark, but her figure is slim and lithe.

After tea, she called me to her bedroom. My heart trembled. Without preliminaries, she pushed me into her bed and threw away her cloths. I too did the same. Her opening is small and that added to my enjoyment. We lay there, talking about sex generally:”When we are hungry, we go to a prostitute; but women are helpless.” She kissed me all over my body and asked me to do once more. In the end, she said:”I am lucky, I got you. You must come every day.”

One day, she came to our tea shop. I introduced her as my friend. She liked the vada and took half a dozen. In the end she said:”If this shop is near the temple, you can earn more.”

“But we must hire a room:”Father said.

“Do not worry, I shall give you money; you may return afterwards.”

So within a month, the shop was shifted. My sister, who was working as sales girl, now worked in the shop, as there were orders for home delivery.

One day Madam asked:”Why don’t you marry?” I explained that my uncle’s daughter loved me, but uncle refused, because we are poor. “My husband is coming from the gulf. I am not very happy, because we will not be able to enjoy.

“Is it not a month only? We can manage it in any garden. When he comes, you talk about my business. If some more money is spent, the shop can be in a terrace house. You may raise this point to your husband.”

So It was done. With a good house and my promotion in my office, the decks were cleared, for talking to my uncle, about giving his daughter to me. Madam and her husband came in their car and talked highly, about my business and character. It had an effect. Uncle called his daughter and asked:”Are you willing to marry him?” She was hearing our talk. She came out and smiled.”I am willing,” she said.

In the garden, Madam asked:”After marriage, will you forget me?”

“Never. You are my lucky star.” She kissed me warmly.

DAY AND DATE

DAY AND DATE

After quitting office, I get confused about the day and date. I was thinking, today is Saturday, actually, it is Friday. This has happened many times.

This day, in 1987, I became a grandfather. Now, Nikhil is studying in an American University, for his Doctorate in economics. He gets about one lakh rupees, each month and is assured of  a good job there. May God bless him!

MAOIST ATTACK AT KALAMASSERY

MAOIST ATTACK AT KALAMASSERY

The Maoists attacked the office of the Highway Authority, at Kalamassery, in broad day light, at eight in the morning. This is the latest, in a series of such attacks by Maoists. There were warnings of such attacks and the Police was on full alert. Perhaps, nothing can be done, because, they can choose a point of which they only know. The alarming fact is that the number of attacks is on the increase. The whole forest cover, from Vynad to Jharkand, is under their control. Police can enter this area, in convoys and their movement is known in advance, as forests are full of agents of Maoists. Arms and ammunition come freely, through, Nepal, which is a haven for smugglers of narcotics, arms and ammunition, Pakistani currency, uranium from Jadugudha etc.

Our border with Nepal is porous. The check posts are few and far apart. The area is full of hills and valleys, covered with thick forests and favourable to smugglers. Is there a way out?

No. The only solution is, peace talks with Maoists, to understand the grievances of adivasis, tribal people,  who have been driven out of forests, by agents of multinational companies. 

MAOIST ATTACK AT KALAMASSERY

MAOIST ATTACK AT KALAMASSERY

The Maoists attacked the office of the Highway Authority, at Kalamassery, in broad day light, at eight in the morning. This is the latest, in a series of such attacks by Maoists. There were warnings of such attacks and the Police was on full alert. Perhaps, nothing can be done, because, they can choose a point of which they only know. The alarming fact is that the number of attacks is on the increase. The whole forest cover, from Vynad to Jharkand, is under their control. Police can enter this area, in convoys and their movement is known in advance, as forests are full of agents of Maoists. Arms and ammunition come freely, through, Nepal, which is a haven for smugglers of narcotics, arms and ammunition, Pakistani currency, uranium from Jadugudha etc.

Our border with Nepal is porous. The check posts are few and far apart. The area is full of hills and valleys, covered with thick forests and favourable to smugglers. Is there a way out?

No. The only solution is, peace talks with Maoists, to understand the grievances of adivasis, tribal people,  who have been driven out of forests, by agents of multinational companies. 

KERALAM-11

HOUSE 

The work of construction was given to contactor Jayaraman. He estimated the cost, as twelve lakhs, the plinth area being 1200 sft. I had some savings in the form of Kisan Vikas Pathram, Fixed Deposit in Bank etc. but it was far short of the cost. My daughters promised to meet the remaining cost. Some gold ornaments too were pledged in SBI and got some money.

At this period, Sreeja became pregnant. I considered it a good omen. The work went on for several months. The walls were made of bricks. Some important items like terrace was made, using river sand. Unimportant parts like walls, were made, using rock dust, available in plenty in local quarries. After completion, ‘vasthu pooja’ was conducted by the tantric Damu. After occupying this house, Sreeja delivered a girl, named Vaikha. She is now four years old.

CHERALAM

CHERALAM

I had written a blog, about our State being merged with Tamilnadu, to solve all our problems. Now, P.C.George has made the outline of a bill, he wants to introduce in the Assembly, for uniting the southern districts with Tamilnadu.

 He gave all details in the TV channel yesterday. 

SNAPS FROM MY LIFE-ten rupee note

SNAPS FROM MY LIFE-ten rupee note

While going from house to house, selling books, often a ten rupee note was thrust into my pocket, by a kind house owner. I felt ashamed, but quietly took it. I did not like to offend them.

KERALA-10

HOME

My wife had a dream, to own a house.

As we were living in a railway quarter, when we were married, there was no need for a home at that time. My salary was enough for a living, but thinking of a home, was like buying an elephant. We both had the habit of spending without budget; in the end of the month, I had to borrow small money; now when I think of it, I feel ashamed.

Then I worked in Projects, where I got quarters. After promotion as Accounts Officer, I ought to have planned for building a home, but I was thinking of hiring accommodation, rather, than building one. ‘Rats make holes, snakes live in it’, I used to think.

Ultimately, my daughters persuaded me to construct a house.

Leena and family lived in Manavazhi for a month; it was then that the work began.

The plot at Chathakudam was in the name of my wife and my brother’s wife, joint property. After my brother’s death, I had no psychological or moral hesitation in dividing the plot. K.K.Raman gave his scooter for our use. Ravi and I went to different offices, to execute the deed. At one stage, there was a hiccough; In the village office records, the owner of the land was Leela, my brother’s wife. I showed the original deed and they were convinced. Suppose we settled in Rajasthan. We will never bother about documents and in future, Sudhur would have lost it.

Ravi made the plan of the house. There is a big hall and the kitchen on the east and two bed rooms on the west side. I insisted on providing a rectangular opening in the roof; The windows are many and ventilators wide enough, to allow cross ventilation. Even in summer we can manage without fans.

The work of digging a well began first. After a few yards of loose earth, laterite layers came and soon solid rock, necessitating blasting. Ravi and leena helped, in removing the debris from the well bottom. Plenty of clear water gushed forth and we were forced to stop digging.

(to continue)

KERALAM

BROTHER

He began working as a poojari, from the age of about sixteen. First it was in the old ancestral Namoodiri home of Melpazhur Mana, now Chinmaya Mission School.

 He used to joke about their way of life. No one gets up, before nine in the morning. Eleven is the break fast time; lunch at three and supper at ten. They all enjoy doing nothing. All are misers. Once I went there with my friend VBS. I remember to have played chess (the old ‘chathurangam’, in which, the queen moved only one square in all directions. In those days it was my craze.

After a number of years, brother got the same job, this time at Mappattu Mana,  who were patrons of ‘kathakali’. That house happens to be our ‘anchantammath’(father’s mother’s ammath.). The family pond there, is famous. It is very big, square shaped and full of water. It is said that there was shortage of water once. The wife house of an ancestor was Karinjampilly. When they learned about the difficulty experienced by their daughter, they sent workmen, all the way to Mappat Mana, near Ottappalam, to dig this pond !

I once went there and my brother said:”See I am getting bald; when shall I marry and settle in my life?” I was studying in College, what reply can I say?

A golden opportunity came. One Namboodiri family was ready TO GIVE THEIR ONLY DAUGHTER TO MY BROTHER. THEY WERE RICH AND BROTHER COULD HAVE SETTLED THERE, near Thrikkur temple.

It was my aunty who brought the proposal. Brother commented:”I have played with the girl’s mother.”

Ultimately, he married from Pazhedath Mana and the marriage was not very happy. After the break up of Mappattu tharavad, he came and joined the Vishnu temple at Madavakara, till he became too old to  walk, all the way to Madavakara. He was nearing eighty.

I liked to honour him, by celebrating his birth day at our ancestral home at Kadalassery and began planning it, combining the event with a summer camp there. With facilities to be provided for boating, it would have been a great event. But fate intervened….

RAJASHEKHARAN

It was about seven in the evening, when I returned to Manavazhy from Pazhai, where I had gone to meet friends. Wife told me that there was a phone message that my elder brother Rajasekharan has been admitted to Elite Hospital, following an accident.

I told Damu, who expressed his readiness to take us to the Hospital in his car. We took supper hurriedly and reached the hospital in about an hour. Instinctively, I took my ATM card drew ten thousand,  as soon as reached the bus stop.

My brother was in the ICU in  casualty section in a critical condition, but I was allowed to see him. I do not make out whether he was alive. His mouth was open, and looked haggard, as all teeth had been knocked out in the accident. I soon came out. Hari Warriar was standing there. I gave him the money. He went on buying medicines, as demanded by the nurse and we did not know what was happening. Brother’s wife was standing near the door. His son refused to come, I was told. After some three hours, they declared that he is dead.

Another complication arose; as it is an accident case, post mortem was necessary, according to the Doctor. I wanted to avoid it. After much persuasion, he gave in, after obtaing  a signed request from the widow and we took the body in the ambulance, to his home at Chathakudam. Damu also came with us.

Hari told what had happened: my brother was returning from the Vallachira  Bhadrakali temple, after prayers. He used to go there. An auto carrying building material, hit him from the back and he fell down. The owner of the vehicle was following and it was he who took brother in his car to the hospital. As he was still conscious, they could identify him. Hari took my son in his scooter and followed .

Cremation got delayed, as brother’s son wanted his wife, to come from Kasargod, where she is working as veterinary nurse.

All our relatives came and camped in our house at Manavazhy

RELIGIOUS TOLERANCE

RELIGIOUS TOLERANCE

Each one should live according to his own conviction. That is the key, to good and peaceful living.

Religion, caste and language should not divide us.

We have a long tradition of  peaceful life, even when Muslims ruled India.

This has now been disturbed by mindless advocacy of Hindu culture and superiority. This is why even Obama stressed the need for religious tolerance. Modi echoed it for public show, but his party ignored it for political gains.

The genocide in Gujarath is still fresh in public memory.

STORY-RENU

RENU

When I entered the railway station, the train was already at the platform. I stood in the que, and waited impatiently, all the while looking at the train. After getting the ticket, I ran just in time to board the train, which had begun moving. I managed to get in.”This is ladies’ compartment ,”said the woman standing near the door.  It was Renu. “You have become a big woman ,”I said. “Sir, where were you all these years? I have been trying to contact you all these days.” “It is a long story. We shall talk, after settling in our seats.” I took her to the AC compartment, as it was connected with the next . I told the TT to give two tickets to Ernakulam, where she lived. After sitting comfortably, I began:”It is a long story. I am now researching in a new field, with grant I obtained from an American University. Presently, a team of students, doing their PhD. In Calicut University, is assisting me. I have to check the data collected by them, dictate my notes and send monthly reports to my American sponsors In fact, I am busy all the day and half of the night. Tell me  your stoery.”

“There is nothing to tell. I did my graduation and now my marriage has been fixed. Will you not come to my house?” This girl was hardly six, when I went there to stay, as the house was near my college. I used to coach her in swimming. She did well under my tutelage and won prizes in children’s events. “Do you still practice?”

“My parents do not allow me to wear swim suite, when I became big.”

“That is a pity. Who is your prospective husband?” She showed me the photo, a mustached man, about to become bald. “Did you like him?” “Not really, but he is very rich and my father agreed.”

We had reached Ernakulam and I hired a taxi.

I felt sorry for the girl, whom I loved as my own daughter. She had a great future as an athlete . Then many would have coveted her hand.

There were only two weeks for the marriage and I decided to stay there. Every day we used to go to the pool. There, she would wear the swim suite. It s a marvelous sight, to see her nearly naked body. We both would swim. She picked up speed very soon. In the afternoon, we would go riding her scooter. I sat in the rear, as I did not have the balance. We enjoyed life, as never before. Often we went to see cinema. I used to contact my staff, doing research and assured them, that I would be back in a few days.

At last, the day of marriage came. It was in the evening and all guests had arrived.

At about four in the evening, a messenger came and told, the man had gone back to the Gulf. A pall of gloom spread in the house. I saw  Renu, to console her. She was not unhappy. She told in my, she is happy. There was a twinkle in her eyes.

Her father called me:”Anand, you can save me. It seems mysterious. They wanted the dowry money, ten days in advance. I sent a message yesterday, about my difficulty. That may be the cause. Anyway, that is over. If you marry her, the situation can be changed. We have not told any one. Let he marriage ceremony begin. You be the bridegroom; I am sure Renu will like it. Only thing is, we have no time to inform your parents.”

I said:”I will call them on phone.”

The ceremony was performed, as planned earlier.

STAY AWAY FROM BLOCS

STAY AWAY FROM BLOCS

America is obsessed with security. After World War Two, it made a number of treaties against Russia. NATO, CENTO, SEATO etc. were the names ,given to these alliances. Pakistan was a member of SEATO (South East Asia Treaty Organization). Wisely, Nehru refused to be a member of any military alliance; instead, he advocated non-alignment.

Man Mohan Singh aligned with America.

Now, Modi also followed suit.

This is dangerous. We must follow the example of Switzerland, always a neutral country.

Remember that maximum Indians have been killed in the World Wars, because the British army was made up of our men, except for Officers. No more Indians should be sacrificed.

A SAD NEWS

A SAD NEWS

R.K.Lakshman is dead.

When I was in Bombay, I was regularly reading the Times Of India

The front page shows the cartoon by  R.K.Laksman. It is  a political satire of great effect and sting. Several cartoons are still live in my memory.

MUSHROOM

MUSHROOM

Edible mushroom is very nutritious and easy to grow at home. I saw in the TV channel, a preparation by mushroom.

It is cooked and mashed. Then it is mixed with beaten eggs and made into balls, which are dipped in bason(kadalamau) and fried.

Of course, salt, chilli powder and masala to be added for tatse. If you like, the balls may be pierced by a thin, long needle of midrib of coconut leaf, to make a chain 

STORY-DEAR

STORY-DEAR

I was sitting in a chair in the Bank, waiting for my number, to present my cheque. It was the last money I had and I was really worried. My printer told me, my books are ready. I will have to give him five thousand rupees, to square our account; leaving me just one thousand in my pocket. Once, I get the books, I shall begin selling my own books and earn enough for my daily life.

Immersed in my worrying thoughts, I did not realize that a lady in black veil, is standing so near, that her fragrance awaked me, from my thoughts.

“Are you not Shyam, the writer? I have read your stories and liked them. May I take your photo?” Without waiting for my reply, she clicked the mobile phone and showed me. I saw a bearded, middle aged man, with shabby hair and piercing gaze. “Am I so unpleasant to look at?”

My token number was announced and I got up and presented my cheque. “Hundred rupees change and the rest in hundred rupee notes”, I told. When I came back, the lady was sitting in the chair, next to mine. I counted the cash and then turned to her:”What can I do for you, Madam?” “I want to talk to you, dear.” The word ‘dear’ had an electrifying effect. So far, none has addressed me so. I looked up, but could not make out anything, as she was covered in black cloth. I said:”Right now, I am going to my printer, to hand over the money for my books. After that you may come to my home. “Where is your house? Or, I may take you in my car.” At least, I can save auto charge; so I agreed. First we went to the printer and gave him 5000; he handed over the books, in ten packets of 100 each . The lady helped the printer, in carrying them to the car. After placing them in the back seat, we went home, myself showing the way. Then she opened her mouth:”Without your permission, I translated some of your short stories into Urdu and these were published in magazines. I now apologize”

I looked at her:”How can I talk to a black veil? Let me see you first.” She laughed:”Let us first go to your house.”

When we reached home, the girl who looks after the house, came and assisted in placing the books in proper order.  I told her to make tea.

I was then, that she removed the obnoxious black thing. Oh, what a change! She looks hardly twenty and extremely beautiful. Her tight fitting modern cloths were in contrast to her veil.”Why do you wear the veil?” I asked.

“Because you men are brutes; you will eat us alive. The best protection is the black cloth.” I looked sheepish.

“Where are your wife and parents?”

“I am unmarried My mother, I do not remember. Father brought me up and gave me good education. He was a petty shop keeper. He wanted me to join Government service. I told him, I want to be a writer and he agreed. He loved me so much but died of illness. It broke my heart.” She gently touched my arm and expressed her grief.

“Why didn’t you marry?” “I earn a little from books. It is not enough for a living. Then, if the wife is against my writing books, she will always grumble about poverty. What about you?”

“I am married. My man is in the gulf. He wants me to come there; but I love Keralam, more than love him. Our tastes are different. Is not Shyam a pen name?”

“I am Abu.” “What a surprise ! From your writings, no one can find out.”

“I have read all Hindu puranas. I like their Devi cult. For Hindus, MOTHER is a goddess.”

We talked about many things. While going, she bought 500 books and gave me the printed cost. She took me to her house and showed me her writings, in Urdu, including my stories translated by her. She promised me, to get my books, including a number of novels published in Urdu, which is very popular in the North.

Our friendship continued for a long time. I began to get substantial royalty from Urdu books. Slowly, publishers came forward in Malayalam too.

After a lot of discussions, we decided to marry.

HISTORY-SPARTA

HISTORY-SPARTA

Greece is in two parts-the upper part is contiguous with Europe, while the lower half is like an island, connected to the main Greece, by a small, very narrow stretch of land, which was only a mile, or so, long.

Athens is in the north and Sparta in the south. These two States (other areas were forest) were at loggerheads at each other. Athens stood for liberalism. Thinkers like Socrates and Plato belong to Athens. The famous Greek Tragedy (dramas) were enacted in Athens. Marathon  run began here. Alexander the Great, was born in Macedonia in the north.

Poor Sparta was the very opposite of Athens. People led a very frugal, simple life. The phrase ‘Spartan habits ‘ means this. They had only one aim in life- military training. To die for the country was the only aim in life. There was a big battle between Athens and Sparta. All Spartans died fighting.

KERALAM -6

KERALAM -6

It may be full of obituary cases, because my generation has become old and almost obsolete!

So I shall write about other loss. I used to sell books, both Malayalam and English. On that day, it was record sales, in a Government office, Industrial Finance Corporation, and after two hours of work, I sat down and counted the money. Then I put it in the purse and carried it in my  baG. The bus stop is just in front of the office. When I got into the bus and looked for the purse, I was shocked; the purse is missing. In addition to money, my railway pass and IC were also in the purse, because, I used to carry the same purse, while going in the trains. Loss of Identity card is more worrying because, to get new IC, I had to file FIR at the  police station and apply to the HQ of Southern Railway office at Madras. Because of my laziness, going to Madras is still pending.

As if to compensate this loss, I gained Rs.1800 from SBI branch at Kecherry, while changing 500 rupee note.  I needed two hundred notes in ten rupee notes and the rest in 100 rupee notes. Instead of giving me twenty notes, the cashier gave two bundles of ten rupee notes. I too got confused. I patiently counted each bundle again and again; it never occurred to me that there are too many notes. After reaching home only, the mistake came out.

DIARY(25-1-2015)

DIARY(25-1-2015)

When I came out of the Sastha Temple, after ‘deeparadhana’, a fat lady was standing near her car, ready to leave. At first, I could not recognize her; it was Mini, my sister-in-law Parvathy’s daughter. Parvathy had come with her, to attend tomorrow’s function‘annaprasham’ of my grandson. My wife is happy to see her sister, both have gone to take bath in the temple pond just now (7.30).

We have invited very few guests, as a measure of austerity. It is good.  Rice must be mashed well, before gulping it. So, at least two year old baby is fit for annaprasham.My father postponed my annaprasham and I began to run about and eat things like papad. I was told that oppolama, father’s first wife, gave me pudding offered to God, even before the formal ceremony.

SNAPS FROM MY LIE-chicken

SNAPS FROM MY LIE-chicken

I had gone to sell books as usual. When I needed tea, I just came to a small dirty shop. Normally I do not mind it. While waiting there, people came to buy chicken. The big, live fowl was weighed and put in a bag. Its neck was wringed inside the bag itself . Seeing it, I felt nausea, but by then tea cup came and I took it

SNAPS FROM MY LIFE-lungi

SNAPS FROM MY LIFE-lungi

We were living in railway colony. The houses were face to face and there was no privacy.

I was standing in the front veranda, sipping tea. Suddenly, my two year old daughter came and pulled my lungi . I had no underwear. Many people saw my true form!

STORY-PREGNANT

PREGNANT

I was going along the railway track, as it was the shortest way to the town, where I was doing odd jobs for a living.

The sight of a girl, walking in the track leisurely, caught my attention. Any time, a train may run over her. I called out, but she did not mind it; so I ran and pulled her off the track. She began to cry. her head leaning on my shoulder. “What is the matter? Why do you want to die?”

“I do not want to live. My lover deserted me after making me pregnant. Afterwards I knew that he has cheated many girls like me. Leave me alone; let the train take my life. I have nowhere to go. My parents will not keep me.” She wept for some time; I allowed her to cool down. Somehow, I felt sorry for this girl, hardly sixteen and very weak. Shall I tell the Police? They may rape her and then throw her out. In the end, I told her:”Come with me.” She meekly obeyed. I had some money with me. We boarded a train and with unreserved tickets, in second class. The train took us to Erode. Here we got down and sat on the bench on the platform. An old woman in shabby cloths came and sat beside the girl.”Are you lovers, run away from home?” She kept silent, but I said:”We are new to this place. Like to do some work, anything . Can you help?” “Can you work in a hotel?” “Oh, yes.”.”Come with me”

She took us to a small restaurant and talked to the Manager. He looked at us. Then he called us:”You can do supplier’s work; the girl can do work in the kitchen. Both can stay in the room behind .” I thanked the old woman.”The Manager knows my house. If needed, you can come to me.”

So, for the time being, our problem was over. In the night, I looked at her closely. She is really beautiful. I said:”Fate has brought us together. I think I can love you. What about you? Can you love me?” She held me tightly and implored:”You are my God. Do not abandon me.” So that was our first night.

In a few months, she learned to make all items, including  snacks like vada etc. In the night we used to roam in the city, as the room is very hot. I saw a big Eye Hospital; there was no hotel near by. The idea came to me that if we have a ‘thattukada’ ( a trolley  with stove), we can sell vada etc. and mint money. I consulted the old woman and she readily agreed. “I will give money for the trolley and stove. The dough can be made here, in my house, in the night. Snacks should be fried then and there, as per demand. You two can stay with me. I have no one else. I like you.”

One day I enquired ”You told me you were pregnant; your belly is thin even now.” She smiled:”Thank god, it was my fear only, because my period was delayed.” Now I do not want children soon. Let us establish well and have a house of our own.”We used to earn some thousand rupees daily. In two years, we made a small house of our own.

Then I wrote a letter to my parents, to come and bless us. She too invited her parents.

KERALAM-5

KERALAM-5

Irijalakuda uthsavam

During the pooram at Irijalakuda temple, Sudha, Meghna  and Damodaran decided to see it. My wife and myself went with them. They had a car at their disposal and the journey was comfortable. Inside the temple there were several elephants and drum beating, fireworks etc. as usual. Sudha went on taking photos in her video. When the elephants were near the eastern Gopuram, I went a little way towards the elephants, as these animals are my fovourite. When I returned to my wife, I missed her. The purse was with her; all my efforts failed and I did not know what to do. So I stood in the que for ‘prasada oottu’.

It was quite tasty and pudding too was there. Unlike at Guruvayoor, it was buffe system with each man carrying his steel plate and moving forward. In the end, we have to wash it. There is no ration, as far as dishes are concerned.

Now my worry was to reach home. I approached a Namboodiri house and pressed the calling bell. A lady came out and I explained my predicament. I introduced myself as a Namoodiri and asked for twenty rupees. She gave it and I thanked her.

Then I walked to the bus stand and boarded the bus for Oorakam, where I got the bus for Chathakudam.

Sudha and family went to Avittathur, had meals there, in their relative’s house and returned comfortably, along with my wife.

STORY-RUBBER PLANTATION

RUBBER PLANTATION

There was gloom, throughout the workers’ colony. The owner has notified that the plantation has been closed. One month’s pay may be collected and we ma y go away.

As the leader of the workers’ union, I have added responsibility.  We called a meeting, to plan our future . It was well attended. I told them:”Comrades!

This plantation has become uneconomical. Half the trees are over aged; these have to be cut down. Fresh saplings have to be grown. It may take at least five years to mature.  The cost of rubber is going down. This is affecting almost all plantations.

My suggestion is that we must continue to work here, with half salary. Each one must take a  share of rupees one hundred. We will get assistance from the Rubber Board and loan from the Bank. The details of my plan is described in this note. Ann, please distribute copies of the note in this meeting. We shall meet again, tomorrow. “

We were about to disperse, when a gentleman in plants and coat, came from the back row and asked me:”Don’t you remember me?” It is Vinod:”How are you here? You were in the gulf”

”Yes; tell them to stay.” I announced and the workers remained in their seats. Vinod continued:”Friends, you must not worry about wage cut. I shall pay full wages. I have wound up my business and come to India to invest money here. My friend is an able and reliable man. I have full faith in him. As he suggested, buy shares. The balance money will be mine. I had learned about the crisis in this industry. The experts believe that things may look up, after a period of a few year. Another suggestion is to have a cattle farm and bee hive production to utilize the robber tree flowers. This way, loss from the rubber, can be compensated. Thank you.” After the meeting we went to my rom. Ann came with us and she prepared tea. Vinod asked:”Are you still unmarried? This girl?”  She is Ann, my assistant in the  union; without  a stable job I was afraid to marry.” “She is a sweet girl. Why not marry her.?” She looked shy.

We discussed all details. The cattle farm will have to be managed by a separate Manager. Vinod will contact the concerned departments in the Government. I too went with him, as he is new to our set up. He got an experienced man for Manager’s post, through his friends. Bee keeping is more difficult.  We approached the department of  Khadi for training in bee keeping.  When we returned after ten days, all were excited.  Ann said, they are asking for money. She handed over the share money received.  I told Ann, to announce a meeting immediately. She was given a cheque for the money to be disbursed as salary.

The inauguration of the new plantation was very grand. Hearing about our achievement, other unions also came to study things at first hand.

I was appointed Manager, with a salary of ten thousand. Ann agreed to marry me.

KERALAM-4

Computer

Sudhir brought a proposal to buy a computer and internet  Idea connection for just Rs.25000 and I eagerly accepted it. I had a blog but, without computer etc., I could not make postings in the blog. Now my problem is over and I became very busy.

It was during this period that I got a magazine ‘Itihas Durpan’ by post. I had not hear about it. When I opened it, I was pleasantly surprised to see my article ‘SARASWATHY-MYTH OR REALITY’ in the magazine. It is an RSS publication and I did not know how they got it. In the same issue was another article, by a Christian that St. Thomas never visited Keralam. All disciples of Christ were in a state of extreme sorrow and it took considerable time, to recover  the m to regroup. Probably, they had not even heard of Keralam.  Such original thoughts were only published in this magazine, according to the Editor. It was a morale boost and I decided to publish a small booklet ‘Bold Unfettered Thinking’ . The book included a new theory about earthquakes. The article ‘Is the earth hollow?’ was also in this book, coasting Rs. 20. Being in English, I went to colleges, to sell it. There was good response.

My next booklet, costing Rs. 15 was published, while I was in Delhi. The title is ‘Global Warming is a Myth’ It contained theoretical reasoning as well as temperature charts, to prove my point. The book was a hot favourite among educated people.

My third publication was ‘Childhood Memoirs’, costing Rs. 100 , containing a number of articles about theoretical science.

Afterwards, I published several books in Malayalam, including  autobiography and short stories.

HISTORY-THE FALL OF MUGHAL DYNASTY

HISTORY-THE FALL OF MUGHAL  DYNASTY

The East India Company  came to India, to do trade. At that time, they had no intention of acquiring territory.

Their representative met the Emperor, in Delhi fort, presented gifts and requested for permission to make a where house at Surat. This was agreed. At that time there was no central Government, as the writ of the Emperor did not extend beyond the fort in old Delhi. Robbers and ruffians had harassed the merchants, who were compelled to move in a convoy. From Surat , they had to take the protection of African sailors, to take the ships to Egypt, where  European merchants were waiting for them.   All this changed, when the Company established sway , all over the North. The business community whole heartedly supported the British Raj.

The revolt of displaced and discredited feudal Rulers of North India, in 1856, was not supported by the common people, who welcomed law and order and security.

WHAT ARE ISLANDS?

WHAT ARE ISLANDS?

Just as a tree has roots, going deep into the earth, so has islands in the sea, roots of rock, reaching up to the bottom of the sea.  And they go beyond, into the rock structure. In other words, islands are hills and mountains I the sea. The pacific ocean can engulf mountains, much higher than the Himalayas.

If we imagine the earth, devoid of water, it will give you a true picture of the earth. The inland lakes also may conceal several hills.

PEEPAL TREE

PEEPAL TREE

Peepal tree is peculiar. During summer, it sprouts plenty of leaves, more than in the rainy season. From the rocks, new plants may grow in summer.  It prefers water molecules available in the rock which is actually porous. The same way, these grow from the terrace too, because concrete is porous. It may be, that too much water suffocates the roots.

Desert plants like cactus also have this habit.

KERALAM-3

Daily life

Those were heavenly days. It was heightened by the presence of  a star-a slight girl, somewhat fair, named Sangeetha, studying in St. Mary’s College, Trichur. All her expenses were met by me, she being Sreej’s niece. They were very poor. Sreeja’s sister worked in Khadi centre and her husband, a lame fellow worked as poojari. I think Sreeja used to send money to her mother, as they were depending on her income, for survival. The girl was always first in her class; she would go up to her aunt’s room, after coming from the college and having refreshments and come back, on completing her work, though we will be watching TV. My wife too treated her as a daughter.

We never felt that we were living in hired accommodation. Damu used to give us mangoes, jack fruit, turmeric etc. free; he is a good farmer. In the morning, K.K.Raman will bring fresh cow’s milk . He had purchased a car, very old, the make of which is not available in the market. He tried to learn driving, but abandoned the idea, when his car hit and damaged the parapet by the approach road; but the car was parked in the shed, in front of our house. I am very particular about all dues being paid on the first of the month. I will give two 500 notes to Indu, (Damus’ wife), the rent paid in advance each month. She is sweet as her name, ‘moon’, and very loving.  I miss her now, as we are living in our own house.

I used to go on a walk in the morning, usually to Naruvakulangara, my mother house, where my aunt is lying ill. I will shout Sasi’s name and he too will join us and it was a good entertainment for my aunt, who loved me as her own son. Poor aunty was laid up in the bed for a long time.

One evening Sasi told me to see her, but I ignored it, as it was about to rain and I had no umbrella. That night she breathed her last.

One night, there was rain and wind; in the morning Sasi collected a bag full of mangoes and gave it to me. With much difficulty, I carried it to the bus stop. I had to wait. The auto driver demanded more money than the cost  of mangoes and so I waited for a long time till the bus came. From the stop at Manavazhi, I had to carry it all the way home. But my wife was thankless.  Indu had also given mangoes.

To supplement the gas, we used to buy wood fuel, for which I had to locate the half truck carrying fuel.

IN KERALAM-2

IN KERALAM-2

Sreeja’s background.

She is a married woman. Her husband was involved in some criminal case; so she refused to live with him. However, there was no formal divorce, when she married Sudhir. Muthurssi Vasudevan’s wife is related to Sreeja and it was she, who brought this case to our notice, when we were in Delhi. As my son is a chizophrenic, we wanted his wife to look after him, after our time. We decided to see the lady and came to my wife house.  After much discussion, we decided to see her. We fixed up a date and went to Aryampadam, where she lives.

There was quite a crowd of relatives and my nephew Parameswaran also had come with her. The lady is coal black, thin and sickly. I felt pity for her and thought that any one who marries her and gives her a second lease of married life, will be blessed by God Almighty. Her added qualification is that she is employed and gets regular income of her own. After tea etc, we got her photo and came to our home at Manavazhi.

Parameswaran objected to this marriage:”It is unfair to tie Sudhir to this woman; I will find out a fair girl for Sudhir, from my tharavadu itself.”

Sudhir took six months, after seeing the photo, to take an un-decision. But he used to talk to her and liked her voice. At my wife house, the relatives of Sreejja came and we fixed up the date of marriag.

It is a matter of great satisfaction that their marriage is highly successful and produced two children; about that, later on.

IN KERALAM-1

IN KERALAM-1

I left Keralam in 1957 and went out, to earn a living.

In 1998, we returned to this State, leaving our children and grandchildren in Delhi. We could not continue in CS puram, as Sudhir’s would be wife is employed here, at Trichur, in SNA Oushadhasala.. So my first priority was to find a place to live in.

The natural choice was our ancestral home at Kadalassery, on the bank of the river Karuvannoor puzha. Practically no one stayed in that big house and I had conveyed my wish, to the concerned person, but it did not click.  When I discussed my plight to K.K.Raman, his wife Indira told me there is a god terrace building near by. We went there and were satisfied, though the house was locked. Indira told Damu the house owner’s brother and he agreed to keep it clean and ready for occupation.

My next step was to arrange the marriage of Sudhir and Sreeja.  I went to my wife house at Shoranur,  made a draft invitation letter and got it printed there. We prepared a list of the persons to be invited and came back. I went from house to house and delivered the letter. This way, I could meet all people and update my whereabouts.  Then my daughters and Ranjith, Vasudevan etc. came along with Damodaran, my son-in-law, who took over tne full charge.  We arranged a van to take people from Manavazhi, where we lived, to Perumbilissery, the place of marriage in a temple there. There was only garlanding; no rituals were performed.

The same day, kudiveppu (reception)was also done. The date was

 28-12-2004

POLYNASIANS

Polynasians

Polynasians were the first people to take to the sea.  They originated in Taivan, according to researchers .They are like fish. They live by fishing and seldom come to the land.

I have read a novel about a Polynasian boy, who travels alone, in a canoe, directing his vessel correctly, by instinct. . He has wheat flour and fishing road to catch fish.

By eating raw fish, he gets plenty of water. There is a variety of fish which carry fresh water in its body. These people refuse to be civilized.

The later version of such people live by piracy. Somalian pirates are causing concern among Captains of ships, even now.

SNAPS FROM MY LIFE-elephantine

SNAPS FROM MY LIFE-elephantine

We were staying at  CS puram gramam.

During festival, there were three elephants and drum beating etc. It is a familiar sight, to see these animals urinating, when their penis would become so long and thick, that it is called their ‘fifth leg’.

A young girl may be seeing it for the first time-she laughed and laughed and attracted the attention of all !

ABOUT VASCO da GAMA

I used to watch the serial KAUN BANEGA CROREPATHY.

One question was:”Where did Vasco da Gama die?” There were four options: Portugal, Kochi, Calicut and Goa. It is a bit confusing. Goa may be the right answer; but no, it was Kochi, of all places.

This is a valuable information.

NETHAJI

NETHAJI

Subhas Chandra Bose’s 118^th birth day is today.

He is believed to have died in an air accident. Now the indomitable Subramanya Swamy has come forward with the theory that the great leader was killed, while in prison in Yakutsk, Siberai, according to an article in Mthrubhoomi daily. Swamy maintains that this fact was known to Nehru who remained mum, because of political repercussions, as Russia is our frind.

The theory is plausible, because Japan was Russia’s enemy in World War-2. Hitler killed lakhs of Russians and Stalin would not show any mercy towards Subhash, who was Hitler’s friend. But, least, his body could have been sent back to India for cremation.

Why did he leave India? He could have led underground war against the British, as Bhagath Singh did.

STORY-DAM

DAM

Before the construction of the dam, It was a narrow river. When the survey for the dam  began, people living in the area became concerned. We met the Collector, who assured us that compensation will be given to all, in addition to alternative land.

We had more than two acres of land, with plenty of trees. All documents were copied and authenticated by Officers. WE are five in number, including wife, daughter, son going to school and an old mother. As work progressed and water began to rise during each monsoon, my fears about our future also rose. Where shall we get land? Will it be fertile? I sent my daughter to college, hoping to get her some job. Luckily she is bright in studies and has a pleasing personality.

The final day arrived and we packed all things in a lorry and left for Karwar, where an Atomic Power Plant was under construction. We established ourselves in a spot near the river, as there was no danger of flood here. By hard work, in which my wife too participated, we developed the land, for which there was no owner. A gentleman employed in the Project approached me with a request for accommodation. His name is Pushkar and seemed to be honest. My wife agreed and he became our paying guest. With his help, I began sending representation to the dam authorities, for compensation and alternative land. In due course, my daughter Seema graduated and came back . I requested Pushkar, to try for some job for her, in his Project.

“Uncle, all appointments are made from Bombay; we wil send bio-data there.” Through his efforts, she got a daily rated job of a messenger.  Thus, for the time being, we were happy.

A  letter came from the dam authorities. As I did not know English, Puskar came with me. Seema too wanted to see the old place, where she grew up, and we three journeyed to the dam sit. It took a long time and finally we reached there. During this travel the young people came very lose; I began to entertain hopes of a union of hearts.

We had to stay in a hotel. The place has been totally changed with big market and good hotels. The authorities examined all papers and finally gave  the necessary orders. I thanked all officers and we came back.

When we reached home, Seema’s orders came; she became LDC. It took a long time, to get the orders of the Dam Authorities executed. A number of times we met the Collector; in the end, they allotted us, a rocky desert as land.  Anyway, we assumed authority and necessary papers were registered. After the passage of time, we hoped to get good money.

Needless to say that Pushkar and Seema were married.

GEOGRATHY-VINDHYA

GEOGRATHY-VINDHYA

The two mountain ranges, Vindhy and  Satpura, divide the country into two- the North Indian plains and the peninsular India of mountains, along the 23^rd parallel. The north is plain country, the great Gangetic plains which produce food grains for the whole country.

The southern high land is full of forests and wild life, where hunting was the main occupation of the tribal people.  This area is bound by Vindhya ranges in the north, Western Ghats in the west and Eastern Ghats, at an angle from Nilgiri to Orissa, enclosing the great Deccan plateau

Two great rivers, Narmada and Tapty flow along the valley of the mountain ranges.  These fall in the Arabian sea, near Surat. Recently, great dam was constructed , to harness the waters of Narmada, giving plenty of water to the thirsty fields of Gujarath.

Historically, Narmada is very holy and ancient. The Gangetic plains rose from the sea, at a later date.

The main crop of the south is cotton, the black soil being favorable for this . People near the sea shore, are engaged in fishing. Almost all ports are in the south. This are is rich in minerals like diamonds, gold etc.

SCHOOLS

SCHOOLS

Government Schools are used for illegal activities in many areas in Malapuram district.

There is continuous flow of money from the gulf; Muslim youth is not interested in studies. Drinking and sex are the main activities. There are no watchmen for these schools and the Police turn a blind eye.

Peoples’ committees must become active

KALI NADI

KALI NADI

The Kaiga Atomic Project is built on the bank of Kali Nadi, which falls in the sea, near Karwar, Karnataka.

The river bed is flat, with practically no slope towards the sea; the result is that its level changes with the tide. We stayed there for some years.

There are canoes for ferrying people from the land to the islands in the sea. We used to enjoy it.

One day, we witnessed a miraculous spectacle. A full rainbow stretched from one bank of the river to the other, like an arch. There was no cloud and we could watch it for some time, before our bus crossed the river.

STORY-THERE ARE NO MEN IN THIS STREET

STORY-THERE ARE NO MEN IN THIS STREET

I dream of a beautiful wife, a flat in Marine drive and a car.

The reality is that I sleep among ten men, in a hall, with a single bath room; so I get up well before others and et ready. I have to dress like a gentleman, though I have no work. For a living, I type. The typewriter is hired and kept in the house, in front of which I do my work. One day the owner of the machine captured it, because, I had faulted in payment of his dues. I had sent money home, for urgent needs, when I got the letter from mother. The Lady, in whose house the machine was kept, took pity on me and I got the machine back, when she paid the amount to the owner.  This incident brought us together and I began thinking about the life of the women in the street. I explained to Madam:”You people think nothing about the future. If each one give me ten rupees daily, we shall deposit the money in the Bank daily. When needed by any one member, it may be withdrawn.  A management, with three members, must keep proper accounts etc.  Do you like the idea?”

The next day, all met and I explained the scheme to them. I paid ten rupees. One by one, all paid and I wrote it in a note book. A young girl among them, became the clerk; myself the secretary and Madame the President. The joint account in the SBI was in the name of myself and Madam. Soon the number of members increased and all were happy.

”You[AP1]  give me your photo and bio-data. “ I complied and witin a week I was called for interview in a Finance Company. The manager asked:”What are you doing now?” I said that I am doing job typing. I also explained my scheme for sex workers. He was very much impressed:”We need people like you. By this time, you must have deposited lakhs of rupees.” He appointed me as Special Assistant. I returned and told Madam.  She said:”Where will you stay? I have a special room, where my customers have no access. You may stay there.

The young girl was very happy. By this time, the number of members increased considerably. The girl and myself used to sit in the night for hours, after my return from the Company every dy. One night she asked:”Will you marry me?” How can I refuse, merely because she is a sex worker? Are all house wives chaste ? I agreed and the next day, we told Madam.

---

 [AP1]E 

BOKO HARAM

BOKO  HARAM

“Boko Haram ("Western education is forbidden"), officially called Jama'atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda'Awati Wal-Jihad ("People Committed to the Prophet's Teachings for Propagation and Jihad"), is a terrorist, militant and Islamist movement based in northeast Nigeria with additional activities in Chad, Niger and Cameroon.^[9] The group is led by Abubakar Shekau, and the number of fighters is usually estimated at around 9,000”

It is a deadly organization; they have kidnapped and killed  girl students, because they are learning English. Their main centre is Nigeria, famous for Ebola virus. Africa is still a dark Continent.

KRISHNA APPAN AND GANDHI

KRISHNA  APPAN AND GANDHI

During a casual talk with my cousin, this fact came to light, that my father’s younger brother  Krishan was a close friend of M.K.Gandhi.

At that time, Gandhi was among a number of Congress leaders, who were popular among intellectuals only. He was eager to establish units of the Indian National Congress, throughout India and collect donations. My uncle had gone to Gujarath, after quarreling with the family karanavar, because he went to school.  There he worked in a factory. His tongue was his greatest asset; any one, who talked to him, will never forget him and became his friend. It was during salt ‘sathyagraha’, that Gandhi became his friend. He came to our house at Thalore also.  Wherever he went, my uncle accompanied him. Both were given food first, as VIPs. Panampilly Govinda Menon, who became the Chif Minister of Cochin, used to carry the bundle of threads, necessary for spinning on charka, the spinning wheel. Gandhi used to make threads every day.

Later, my uncle married from Panampilly family. After the Vaikam sathyagraha, in which both Gandhi and my uncle participated, my uncle was expelled from home. 

STORY-ELEPHANT

STORY-ELEPHANT

I used to be carried by father, when he went to see pooram festival. I was only four but I enjoyed the sight of elephants. I used to pester my father , demanding a live elephant to play with. So he bought a small elephant from the forest department pen at Kodanat.

It was of my height and I would watch the mahout  washing it and help him. I neglected school. When I was twelve, I told father that the mahout is not needed, I shall do everything. My play mate Paru would come and help me in washing the animal, which would take a long time. Every inch of the animal is to be scrubbed, with a coconut husk brush, made by cutting it into four. Paru would wash it by a hose.

When the animal was of some height, he was adorned with the golden ‘nettipattam’ and used in a small pooram. Paru and I stood on either side,  proudly looking at the audience. I got money from the Committee, which I handed over to father. He patted me and Paru and said:”When you two are big, I shall arrange your marriage.” I looked at Paru; for the first time , she became shy. I winked at her.

We used to take the elephant, named Ramu, to carry coconut tree leaves , which were either donated by the owners or bought for money.

We never used the iron chain or any arms normally carried by mahouts. Whenevr we took tea, we used to give dosa or idli to Ramu also. We three were a small family. Only when the animal was under the influence of ‘mad’, it was chained to a tree. At that time also, we two could go near him, to give it special food as prescribed by ‘vaidyan’.

In due course, it became big and beautiful, with long tusks and the trunk so long that a part of it remained on the ground, even the head was high.

It fetched good money and there was great demand for it, during festival season. Father was very happy and used to praise us . When I became twenty, we were married, as promise by him. We had no sexual contact till then.  Now Paru stayed in my house. A local newspaper carried our story, in a special edition. It showed our photo, standing on either side of the elephant !

DIARY-20-1-2015

DIARY-20-1-2015

I had gone to Perumpilissery, to contact my Printer. The work was over in half an hour and I was waiting for the bus, to return home. I thought there is time to have a cup of tea and ordered for it.

I was watching for the bus for Chathakudam, while sipping tea. It came and I indicated to the driver, to wait for a few seconds. But the bus sped away. 

HISTORY-DUEL

HISTORY-DUEL

In feudal Russia, it was common practice, to settle a love dispute by duel. We read about it in Russian novels

The persons involved, will lie at a given distance, facing each other, holding loaded guns and waiting for the referee, to say- ‘shoot’

If the first attempt fails, a second chance is given. Thus, it is decided by death, who should marry the girl. Today also, one of the lovers commit suicide; is it not like the old duel?

ELECTION IN DELHI

ELECTION IN DELHI

The election scene in Delhi is getting hot. Khejriwal has challenged his rival for an open debate. Some one has to accept his gauntlet.

It is not yet clear, who is the candidate of BJP. 

ELECTION IN DELHI

ELECTION IN DELHI

The election scene in Delhi is getting hot. Khejriwal has challenged his rival for an open debate. Some one has to accept his gauntlet.

It is not yet clear, who is the candidate of BJP. 

ELECTION IN DELHI

ELECTION IN DELHI

The election scene in Delhi is getting hot. Khejriwal has challenged his rival for an open debate. Some one has to accept his gauntlet.

It is not yet clear, who is the candidate of BJP. 

TELEPHONE TALK IN KERALAM

TELEPHONE  TALK IN KERALAM

The TV channels, here in Keralam, are full of talk about the conversation between two persons, about details of bribe given to K.M.Mani, Minister for finance.  The voice has been heard by vigilance wing of the Government. Still, there is no action, on the part of the minister, to resign. The Chief Minister is unconcerned about such things.

The opposition Parties are agitating against the government.

RUN KERALA RUN

RUN KERALA RUN

All cities and towns in this land, are full  of students, running along the streets.

Why this madness? No one knows. Is it in support of sports?

STORY-INNOCENT

We used to meet frequently, though we are not neighbors, because we go to  the town in the same bus.

I try to talk to him, but he is too shy to open his mouth. He would smile shyly and that is all we have to bind us.  Yet I like him because of his innocence. He is guileless as a child. He belongs to a rich family of land owners ; some of his elder brothers are in the IAS cadre. When I see them in the pooram festival, they talk to me politely, because my father is a retired teacher and many of them are his students. When I ask about my friend Hari, they also laugh:”We do not know what to do. Even as a child, he remains silent. How will he face the interview board? There he has to impress them.” I was away from home for a long time. I stayed with my uncle in Bombay and lost contact with my friend. I tried hard and got a job in a private Company, in the computer section, in Bombay itself. I was twenty five and marriage proposals came; I rejected them, on one ground or other. Why did I do it, I asked myself. Foolishness, to feel a fancy for Hari, who is so shy. If they suggest marriage for him, he will quietly agree, even if he has soft feelings for me.

I used to go home once every year. He is in Calcutta, they told me. I got his address and wrote to him. It was not a love letter, but I did hint, about my feelings.  After one month, I got a reply.

“Dear  Sarasu,

It is nice to read your letter; I was reminded of our good old days. Will those days come back? I became to involved with my work, which requires meticulous planning and hard work. Often I go to sleep after midnight. There are some Malayalees, but none is close to me. I live the life of a recluse. Write often,

I remain your best friend ,

Hari.” It did not give me any hope, at least we can continue our correspondence.  Months passed and ultimately, I had to surrender to my father’s wish. He fixed a marriage with a school teacher. I sent him the card , without any comment. He regretted that he is unable to attend the marriage. “I hope our friendship will continue; write to me as before.” I could hardly stop my tears.  “What is the matter?” my friends asked.  In the bed, at first night, I remained immobile, unable  to respond. All the while, Hari was in my mind.

A few years passed.ave birth to a boy. My mother came to stay with me, as I bought a flat on loan.

We heard that a new boss is coming in our office. All were excited. It was Hari. I could hardly believe my eyes.

He called all staff in his chamber and asked about their welfare. When my turn came, I went in weeping. He came and held me in his arm:”It was my mistake, dear. I should have been more strong. Could you come to my hotel?” He kissed me again and again. “This is not the end. We remain united for ever . I will not marry another girl.”

I gave notice for divorce.

THE TEMPLE GOVERS

THE TEMPLE GOVERS

We, who visit he Sastha temple here, are a group. I was greeted with joy, when I went to the temple after fifteen days, because of pula.

The women folk are more united. They go on pilgrimage, to other temples, in a group, collect donations for pooram festival etc. On Sundays, they sing Ramayana . It is because of women that Hinduism survives; men are more interested in drinking and playing cards.

SNAPS FROM MY LIFE-dream

SNAPS FROM MY LIFE-dream

I had a terrifying dream-my wife is not traceable.

Then I saw her, standing naked. Her body is covered by long hair, like that of an elephant. I called out to her, to wear something, she was not hearing me.

When I woke up and saw her beside me, I felt a relief-it was only a dream.

A DIRTY DREAM

A DIRTY DREAM

I had a very dirty dream. I went for urinating in a new place and was appalled by the dirt. I came out, unable to stand there.

When I woke up, I felt nausea and brushed my teeth, even before having my bed tea.  Why do I have such nightmare? One reason may be, that my stomach is upset; I had loose motion.

HISTORY-LATITUDES AND LONGITUDES.

HISTORY-LATITUDES AND LONGITUDES.

There was a serious naval accident , in which many people died, because, they could not measure the longitude of the ship.

The latitude is easily measure by the sextant, which measures the incline of the spot, compared to the equator, where it is zero, as the Sun is vertically over the head at noon. For determining the longitude, we have to compare the difference in time, compared to the Greenwich mean time. Now I is easy, as we have the wrist watch; at that time, there was only the grandfather clock, which would turn and tumble in the waves. A committee was appointed under the chairmanship of Sir Isaac Newton, but they could not find a solution.

At last, a clock maker in Italy found a way out. He invented the gimbals, which would the clock in the vertical position, even when the ship is rocked by the waves ! They could carry two grandfather clocks, one according to the Greenwich time and another according to the local time of the ship, ie , twelve at noon.

STORY- OLD MAN

 OLD MAN

I had gone to the Bank, to withdraw some money. My attention was drawn to an old man, his appearance singularly attractive, with feather white hair and no trace of baldness. His face was orange coloured and he had a big diary, with which, he was trying to fill forms for depositing money, making DD etc. I went to him and asked:”May I help you?”

“Who are you?” “I am Saira, a teacher in play school. Seeing you, troubled with all these forms, I thought I could help.”

I sat beside him and began the work. When completed, I was about to go, when the old man called me back.. “Today may manager took leave, that is why I had to come. If you like, I shall show you my house.”I followed him and sat beside him in his car.

The bungalow is really big and fantastic, with the big lawn and pool with fishes inside. As we came in, the maid asked me:”What would you prefer, tea or fruit juice?” I said juice. She came back after some time, with mixed fruit juice and bournvita for the old man.

“I have only my son in the States. Otherwise I am lonely. If you come, it will be good company. Where are you staying?”

“Alone, in a lodge; mother cannot come because of old age.”

Here we have many rooms. You can chose one. Why bother? You are like a daughter for me.” His driver took me to my lodge and I brought my bedding etc.  The old man has plenty of books, both Malayalam and English. Almost daily, there will be phone calls from America. I too used to talk.  Months passed and one fine morning he (the son-Alex) came and surprised all., because he came without any intimation. He is tall and hefty. His arms are full of hair. I liked him. He came and shut himself up, in his room. The old man told me, he has suffered set back in business.

I took courage and went in:”Good morning Alex! How are you?  I am glad you came. “ “I too am happy, to see you in person; you look smart.”

We went on chit chatting and the old man too joined. In the end, I suggested outing, to see the hills.

The tour lasted for a month and all enjoyed it. Alex became relaxed.

I :”If shares are falling, this is the time to buy. Invest heavily and when things look up, sell shares..”

“You are a genius.” He shook hands with me. He went back to the States.

After another year, he sold the shares and won a fortune.  “Congratulations, dear.  I do not know whether you like me. If you have no objection, may I marry you?”

I consulted with my mother and she agreed.

HISTORY- THE BATTLE OF DIEN BIEN PHU

HISTORY- THE BATTLE OF DIEN BIEN PHU

France owned the colony of Vietnam. There was pressure from the United States, to retain it, as a bulwark, to stem the tide of Communism in the East.

It was hill area, difficult to operate for conventional army. The Viet Cong, guerrilla wing of the Party, was well trained and nothing could stop their march to the South, as they were receiving arms and ammunition from China. So the French troops were concentrated in the valley of Dien Bien Phu. When ready, the Viet Cong attacked the French, from all sides. The whole army surrendered. The name of Ho Chi Min rose sky high.

He was very simple and lived among the common people, even when he became the president of the whole of Vietnam.

After the fall of Dien Bien Phu, the Americans took up the fight against the Viet Cong and the war went on for years. They destroyed the whole forest by bombardment. But the Viet Cong built a network if tunnels and shot down a number of airplanes and captured thousands of Americans, causing anguish among common Americans, who could not understand why their sons got killed in a war, far away in Asia, to defend the USA. When Macnamara was defence Secretary, he calculated the cost of  the war. He pointed out that, for each communist  killed, they spent lakhs of dollars. Weary of war, the USA called off the war 

REPBLIC DAY, 2015

REPBLIC DAY, 2015

Three young men were arrested in Delhi, for possessing guns and live cartridges. The Police say they are not terrorists. Yet, all angles are being investigated, they say. The fact that the US President is attending the function, adds anxiety in the public mind.

Special units of US Security forces, are already in the Capital, checking every nook and corner.

ABOLISH THE CENSOR BOARD

ABOLISH THE CENSOR BOARD

Films are marked, with U-certificate or as Adults only. We are still living in the old world. Technology has rendered these concepts, absolute nonsense.

In the internet world, even children enjoy films showing explicit sex.

They wanted to make a film, of the Nehru-Lady Mountbatten affair. The Government refused permission, because it will tarnish the image of our dear Prime Minister. This is political censorship. The whole world know about it. In England, even books, highly damaging, to the reputation of the Queen, are published.

I am of the opinion that the Censor Board must be abolished.

STORY-LIFE

LIFE

The quiet flowing river of married life enters a difficult water fall, when  one partner fails.

The children are the worst casualty. If they are grown up, they are able to understand and judge My daughter, studying in the tenth standard, was asked by the Judge, whether she wanted to stay with her mother or father. She pointed to me, but I told the Judge:”Your Honour, she must grow up in her mothr’s custody. Being a girl, there are   things which onl a mother should handle. She can come to me any time, but in the night, she must sleep in her mother’s room”. The judge remarked:”See Madam, he is more sensible than you. Any time, you are free to annul this divorce.”

My daughter Deepthy used to come to me daily, on her way from the school, and I cleared her doubts, about the lessons of the day. I never asked her about my wife.

One day, she brought a lady teacher from her school and introduced her to me. She was middle aged, like me:”Glad to meet you, Madam, what can I do for you?”

“Your daughter used t speak about you and I just liked to meet you. I am alone with my mother. I am told that you do practice Ayurvedic medicine.”

“Just for tome pass; some patients have recovered. They may get well, without medicine also, we do not know.”

“That is your humility. My mother is having so many complaints; could you kindly come and see her? I shall take you in my car.” Deepthy had brought tea and snacks. “How old is your mother?”

“Seventy plus; most of the time, she sleeps in her bed.” “That is the problem. Even with the support of a stick, she must walk for an hour daily.”

Madam took me in her car and we reached a beautiful villa, some fifteen miles away. Deepthy had gone home. I first talked to the mother and came to the conclusion that her loneliness is the main problem. “I now know, how terrible loneliness can be. We used to quarrel daily, but that is better than being alone.”

After detailed check up, I prescribed some Ayurvedic tonics and oils for rubbing on the body. “Keep a home nurse; At least, it will give her company.”

While we were returning, I asked:”You didn’t tell me your name; Why do you remain alone?” “For the same reason as yours . My man went with his girl friend. You may call me Radhika.”

Deepthy told me her mother too, went to see Radhika’s mother.”Both are now good friends and walk together in the garden. The old woman has improved sufficiently. My mother has softened sufficiently. Papa, now she repents.”

That day my wife phoned me, for the first time.”Deepthy has matured; we must celebrate it. I am holding a feast this Sunday in my home. Will you kindle come?” “Oh, sure”

It was a grand affair. My father-in-law was very pleased. He embraced me and said in my ears:”My son, you must be magnanimous and pardon my daughter. Now she repents.”

My wife and daughter came running. Deepthy kissed my cheek; wife stood smiling. We saw a car and all looked, to see who has come It was Radhika. She told Deepthy:”This car is for you. Here is the key. This is from my mother.”

During that day, Radhika and myself sat together. My wife was looking jealously. In sheer beauty, she looked marvelous !

In another month, my wife sent out invitations for our twenty fifth wedding anniversary. Deepthy told  me:”Papa, forget the past; look forward to the future. I know Radhika Madam  will be upset. She actually loves you, I know. But my vote is in favour of my mother.”