TRANSPORT HARTAL

ONE MORE HARTAL-TRANSPORTERS This time the hartal or stop work covers the whole of India. It was notified much in advance . The Government of India could have seized the issue and taken necessary action. One can imagine the condition , when the roads all over the country becomes empty. Examinations have to be postponed. People will not be able to go t the hospitals. Why not ban hartals?

THRISSUR POORAM

THRISSUR POORAM(29-4-2015) Today is the famous pooram at Thrissur (full name is Thrissivaperur) The centre of the town , something of a hill, is occupied by Vadakunnathan (Siva) temple. All Deities are brought on elephant back with drum beating. The main competition is between Paramekavu and Thiruvambadi temples. The high light is kudamattam or changing of parasols, like ladies changing saris and there is maximum crowd, from five to six in the evening. I did not find it so exciting, as the commentators were crowing about. The beneficiaries are the merchants, whose business during three days, may run into millions. Tomorrow morning at three is fire works. It is said that a North Indian , seeing it for the first time, thought it is actual war!

TB MENACE

FIFTY CRORE INDIANS ARE TB PATIENTS

It is reported that the number of TB patients in India,

 exceeds fifty crore.

This is alarming. My guess is, that most of them are industrial workers. Comparatively few farm workers fall ill, because of the healthy environment in which they work.

Lack of nutritious food like milk and eggs add to the problem.

My suggestion is that a wealthy man should adopt a TB patient, ie., he must send to the Hospital , money to feed the patient. Working hours must be reduced to six , with two days off in a week.

Humanitarian agencies must wake up, to save the Nation from this vicious disease.

SUBHAS-3

SUBHAS -3

The Captain of a sinking ship escapes, only after all his sailors are rescued. As the Commandant of the INA , HE SHOULD HAVE SUREENDED to the Indian Army and faced the consequences. The INA trial continued , in spite of protests . Sardar Patel was adamant and Nehru agreed with him. At least, Subhas could have escaped the fate of being a prisoner in Siberia.

He must have gone back to Japan , along with the Military top brass. Bose was continuously shadowed by CIA and its counterpart in Britain. They spread the canard that he died in an air crash. After the surrender of Japan , he must have been whisked away by Russian KGB . It is impossible to believe that Stalin did not inform Nehru. The declassified documents by West Bengal Government , confirms this theory. Bose is adored by all Indians . So the secret papers in New Delhi were destroyed by Indira Gandhi. There is bound to be furor in Parliament. 

STORY-COMPANION

COMPANION

While I was going to attend a marriage, a very amiable gentleman came close to me . “Who are you? What do you want? “ I asked irritably. He was tall and has a likeable face with curly hair . But a lady cannot be comfortable, if followed by a man.

He replied:”I am a wanderer. I thought I may get food in the feast, if I pretend to be your companion. I have no invitation.”

I could not help laughing , but did not want to offend him. In a marriage party, anyone can come and eat. Is it necessary to have a friend?

“You must be having some job, a family in the town or some background. Tell me , I may be able to help.?”

“I worked in the army for some months; but was disqualified after Police verification. They found some leaflets circulated by my Communist friends. Actually I have no connection with Naxalites. At home I have my parents and a sister, studying in the college. I belong to Wynad.”

I felt sorry for him. The marriage was to take place later in the night and we sat at the same table and began enjoying snacks and sweets. My companion (Sunil) ate voraciously . Poor guy might not have taken food in the day. The microphone blared songs for some time and then it was announced:”If anybody can sing , he or she is welcome?”

Immediately Sunil went up and began singing a beautiful Hindi song of some fifty years old. Pin drop silence prevailed and there were cries:”More and more” After half an hour , when he stopped, there was thunderous applause.”Who are you?”, the man at the microphone asked.

I stood up and cried :”He is my friend, Sunil by name.” The bride had come by my side, by this time and she asked me:”You never told me about this wonderful chap?” I explained the circumstances . When Sunil came, the bride shook hands with him. I felt proud .

We three talked for some time. Then her father also came. All guests crowded round the new hero. After the wedding I invited him to my house. Father had come by his car and we all went home. I showed him the guest room and wished him good night. “You must be very tired . At what time do you have bed tea?”

“As early as the maid can prepare it.” “I will make the tea or coffe?”

Tea at five in the morning and then I go for a walk.”

His stay continued. Father contacted some film guys and soon his recordings began. He got more offers.

Our happy days came to an end when the Police located their Naxal prey.

As I had his home address, I went to his home. I told them of our efforts to get his release. Unfortunately, Some Naxal activity was reported in Wynad. Still his sister and myself went to Wynad and contacted Police station. They confirmed his presence but refused permission to meet him. They were sympathetic as Sunil’s song CDs were very popular . Many pictures were released . Everywhere it ran ‘house full’

Meanwhile, there were demonstrations in all districts.”Rajan case must not be repeated “ the crowd demanded. Matter was raised in the assembly. But nothing came out. As the arrest was under the National Security Act, the culprit cannot be released, until his innocence is proved.

I missed my monthly period. I did not panic, because I had decided that I will not marry any other man. I told Sunil’s sister the good news . As I knew that my father will not allow marriage with a Terrorist, I went to the US to my close friend’s house and remained there till delivery. It was a cute girl ,resembling its father. I felt I am the happiest woman in the world. I used to contact his family and gave them the good news. After some time , I returned to India and gave the child to its grandmother. I stayed in my house, as if nothing had happened.

The fight for Sunil’s release continued . As a special case, the court gave him parole to work for the film industry. After his release, we registered our marriage.

SCATTERED LIGHT

SCATTERED LIGHT

After sunset, we continue to see things clearly. As light travels in straight line , how is this possible?

The atmosphere contains billions of small dust particles, which reflects light, like small mirrors. So we say, light is scattered and falls on our eyes ,making it possible for us to see objects clearly.

NEPAL TRAGEDY

UNDERNEATH THE ARE AROUND NEPAL, STEAM PRESSURE IS BUILDING UP

I HAVE WRITTEN IN THIS BLOG THAT EARTHQUAKES ARE CAUSED BY SEAM PRESSURE.

Water  in the bowels of the earth become steam, because of geothermal energy. When steam pressure tries to equalise , rumblings are the result. This is happening every day in Iceland, where steam escapes through hot springs.

Such springs can be made artificially, by sinking pipes . The steam thus collected may be used to work turbines. We can thus produce electricity and escape from earthquakes.

Will scientists listen?

MAY DAY

MAY DAY HOLIDAY

Now it is a compulsory Holiday. Even tea stalls are closed because the workers there, are entitled for holiday. Is it relevant now?

The workers in early nineteenth century, were organized by international workers federation. They were demonstrating in Chicago and were shot dead by the Police on May first. In other words, it is their martyrs day.

Today workers of different countries are united separately . There is no relevance to this day internationally. People do not even know why this day is observed.

WHY NOT STOP THIS FARCE?

STORY-TOO YOUNG

TOO YOUNG

When I completed my Bs.C., my mother began fretting for a wife for me.

“Ma, I am too young to get married. Let me enjoy free life for a few years.”

“But I am too old. I need help in the kitchen. My friend’s daughter is also young and suitable for you. The other day we had met in a marriage party. She suggested this alliance. Just go and see her. A courtesy call, that is all.”

I got the details of their house and went by bus. It took some one hour by bus. Then I walked for half an hour through village roads and came to their house. A very young girl, almost a child, opened the door.

Seeing me, she went in and her mother came out. She immediately recognized me:”Nandan, do you remember me? You were too small when I saw you. You were studying in Bombay all these years , isn’t it? Come inside.”

It was an old house, with an open courtyard in the centre. There is a net to cover the open space, lest crows may come . Such houses of wood work and tiles are seldom theses days of terrace roofs. As if she read my thoughts, she explained:”After the death of Sharada’s father, I could not take up the work of reconstruction of the house.”

By this time, the girl brought hot tea and fried potatoes. Her mother went inside.

“How much have you studied?” I could not think of anything else. She is very small, hardly five feet tall. Very slim but fair and with big eyes. Her breasts seem to be too small inside her loose jacket. She was wearing petty coat only. I liked her. “I could not pass tenth exam; failed in maths. What are you doing?”

“I am a post office clerk. I have been selected as Assistant in Lakshadweep Islands. Orders may come any time.”

“I love to live in the islands”

“Do you love me?”

“Yes . It is all decided by our parents that we must marry. My mother will also come and stay with us. It will be helpful for your mother because your father is bedridden. Everything is planned. This meeting is just a formality, because you have not seen me.”

While leaving, her mother gave me a whole sac-full of ripe mangoes.

“The worker will carry it up to the bus point?” The girl smiled sweetly, as I departed.

My mother was very happy to learn that I liked the girl. She was glad to get the gift of mangoes which we used to buy in the market only. I told her that the girl is too young for marriage, as she is below eighteen. Mother did not mind it:”I was married at fifteen. The law is not binding on us. I need an assistant.”

So the marriage took place. We invited only a limited number of relatives . There was no dowry:”You saw their estate. The whole of it is now ours, as there is no other claimant ,”said mother.

When the order from the Lakshadweep Authority was received, Sarada was pregnant . I consoled her:”You know all are Muslims there . Accommodation will have to be fixed up. When things are settled, you can come with the baby. It is only a matter of months.”

I went to the dweep from Calicut. I carried all masalas and pickles with me. It was my first voyage in a ship and I enjoyed the experience. I missed my dear wife. She was experienced in running the house and very thrifty. I considered myself lucky, till I received the news about the baby.

It had a very rare disease-the head began to grow bigger and bigger and finally died. What was worse, was the opinion of the Doctors that Sarada cannot have a normal baby. I had been to my home and we returned after my leave:”Dear, I have you. That is enough . I do not mind, if your baby is delivered by some other woman. I must have your own child; I do not like to adopt one”, she said.

Soon she forgot her sorrow and became as happy as she was, when we first met.

In the office y boss was a lady IAS Officer,  a North Indian. She was unmarried and liked me very much. She was disappointed, when I told her I am married. After hearing my story, she readily agreed to bear my baby. I told my wife and she was so glad that she kissed me again and again.

After becoming pregnant, she took leave and went home. She came back after delivery and gave the baby boy to my wife. We informed home about the arrival of the son. Mother-in-law rushed to us immediately.

RAHUL GANDHI

RAHUL GANDHI IS DIFFERENT

I like Rahul,

He is frank and unassuming. He went walking, all the way to Badrinath. To the question , ‘what did you pray for’, he replied:”Nothing. After prayer , I felt more happy”

Now he is going to Rajasthan, visiting the families of farmers who have ended their life. It is not to show off ,as ministers do.

I wish him success!

WADAKKANCHERRY

 

 

WADAKKANCHERY MINI CIVIL STATION

For some time, I had been thinking of going to Wadakkancherry near Palakkad. The similar place on Trichur-Shoranur road is called Wadakkaanchery. (one ‘a’ less)

It was my guess that there must be  a Taluk Office there. I just wanted to see it.

After reaching there, I was told that the Min Civil Station is at Alathur, another ten rupees from there. The auto driver took me to a brand new five storey building with four lifts . Even though there are a number of chairs in the office rooms, many are empty ; they may be expecting more postings of staff. In any  case, almost all bought my books.

Afterwards I visited the Panchayath office and sold more books. That way I was not disappointed.

I had snacks and tea at Vanitha hotel at the bus stand . The stand is very congested . I got into a limited stop bus for Trichur and reached home by one o clock

 

 

 

FACE BOOK

KEEP AWAY FROM FACE BOOK, GIRLS

Face book is very popular among ladies and young girls. But now it is becoming dangerous.

Some bad guys in the Gulf countries have developed soft ware to make nude pictures of the girls,  out of the face book. The cyber crime branch of India is unable to investigate it because the source is outside our country.

So avoid face book . Do not open it.

WADAKKANCHERRY

WADAKKANCHERY MINI CIVIL STATION

For some time, I had been thinking of going to Wadakkancherry near Palakkad. The similar place on Trichur-Shoranur road is called Wadakkaanchery. (one ‘a’ less)

It was my guess that there must be  a Taluk Office there. I just wanted to see it.

After reaching there, I was told that the Min Civil Station is at Alathur, another ten rupees from there. The auto driver took me to a brand new five storey building with four lifts . Even though there are a number of chairs in the office rooms, many are empty ; they may be expecting more postings of staff. In any  case, almost all bought my books.

Afterwards I visited the Panchayath office and sold more books. That way I was not disappointed.

I had snacks and tea at Vanitha hotel at the bus stand . The stand is very congested . I got into a limited stop bus for Trichur and reached home by one o clock

MIRROR OF INDIA

MIRROR OF INDIA-TIDBIDS

These incidences happened on 22-4- 2015.

FARMER’S SUICIDE

Gajendra Singh , a farmer from Rajasthan, was also a participant in the protest rally, organized by AAP at Jantarmandir in New Delhi, against the land acquisition Ordinance by the Central Government. He climbed up a tree and hang himself, in the presence of onlookers and the Police. Now the Police have registered a case against Kejriwal for this tragedy.

STUDENT

In Kerala State results of the tenth year examination , were published in a hurry, without proper scrutiny. Many did not get marks for Physics paper.

Ganesh did not appear in the exams. He had applied for leave. In the web site , he got plus one in all subjects!

COMEDY

R.Balakrishna Pillai is a leader of the Kerala Congress. He shared the dais with Communist leader Kodiyeri Balakrishnan and vowed to defeat the Congress candidate, in the coming by-election from Arayikara , because of the Governments attitude towards corruption!

TO MALAPURAM

TO MALAPURAM

For a long time, I have been thinking of goig to Malapuram Civil Station. I did not know where I have to get down from the train. I was thinking of Kuttipuram. A copassenger told me Tirur is a better option; so I did so.

As remodeling works are going on there, it was impossible to cross over to the east side , though the distance was only a few hundred yards. So I hired an auto.

There are a number of buses and I first entered a KSRTC bus. As there was no sign of it moving, all those sitting in the bus went in a private bus. Afterwards I realized that KSRTC would have been better, because the private bus was jam packed.

At first we reached Kottakal, then Malappuram. There was no sign of mala or hill. The Civil Station was sprawling over acres of land. There was no crowd as I used to see at Ayyanthol Civil Station. The offices are spread over in different buildings like barracks. The response was good and I could sell all the books in my bag. I hired an auto, to reach the bus stand. As the bus was about to start, I could not have a cup of tea.

It was one thirty when I took my tickets and I had to be satisfied with vada and hot tea. At 3.45 the train for Shoranur came. By seven I reached home

STUDY OF BOSE (Part two)

BOSE (Part two)

JAPAN

Japan was a sleeping giant under the Emperor. Seeing the emergence of Honkong as an industrial power, they too wanted to industrialize. But they had no raw materials like coal and iron ore During World War- two, they attacked and occupied north China and the Communists under Mao Tse Tung, began guerilla war. For name’s sake, General Chiang Kaishaik also joined the resistance. He came to India and met Congress leader Maulana Azad who promised all help against Japan . This I mention, to show how obnoxious Bose was in the eyes of progressive elements.

Japan wanted to open another front in the South, where Ceylon was powerful British naval base. The whole sea in the East was controlled by US and Briton. This was the reason why Japan attacked Pearl Harbour.

There was another development. Initially, Russia was a friend of Hitler. In 1942, Hitler attacked Russia without any reason. It is said that Stalin could not believe it and it took one week for him to prepare the counter attack. The US President Rousewelt, British Prime Minister Churchill and Stalin met at Yalta and decided to form a united opposition to Hitler. In the war, Germany and Japan were united. All this shows how foolish it was , for Bose to side with Japan. Bose became the enemy of the world. It is said that he was in a Russian jail, after the end of the world. Bose did not get even warm cloths. It is not clear whether he was given proper food even. Poor man suffered all this by siding with Japan. A rumour was floated that he died in an airplane accident

(To continue)

CRITICAL STUDY OF BOSE

SUBHASH CHANDRA BOSE-THE GOD THAT FAILED (Part one)

Bose is the icon of not only Bengalis, but the whole country worship him. His individuality and devotion to the freedom of India are commendable. He reminds me of Vivekananda, who threatened to throw an Englishman into the see, if he continued to decry India. They were travelling in a ship.

Subhash was a student in the Convent school in Calcutta. Some student trouble was there and the English Teacher came out and pushed a boy. Subhash caught hold of his collar and was ready to slap him. The Englishman withdrew into his class. Of course, he was dismissed and went to Cuttack to continue his studies. Cholera epidemic was there and he and his friends used to go and attend the patients, giving them medicine and advice.

He passed ICS, BUT REFUSED TO SERVE THE BRITISH whom he hated like the plague and so did not join the service. Instead, he was involved in the Indian National Congress and became its President. Gandhi’s non-cooperation forced him to seek the help of Germany, who was the enemy of the British. Had he raised the Indian National Army (INA) here in India, youngsters like Bhagat Singh would have joined it . It would have been ideal.

JAPAN

Japan wanted to become an industrial power,  but it did not have the raw materials to make steel. It had an eye on our country rich in iron ore and coal. Hitler conspired with Japan and Subhash was brought to Tokyo in a submarine. The British forces were defeated by Japan (it was Second World War) AND Singapore fell into their hands The INA was formed at this stage, to aid the capture of India. The members of INA were prisoners of war captured by Japan and very few in number, compared to the Jap army. Bose declared himself to be the President of India(Government in exile)

Let us imagine Japs conquered our country. Subhash will be just a puppet.

(Next-Japan-friend or foe?)

OBSESSION ABOUT YECHURY

OBSESSION ABOUT YECHURY
The Malayalam channels were full of news about the new secretary of the CPM, Sitaram Yechury.
I wonder why is it important , as the Party has been wiped off the country, along with the Congress. Hindi channels described the coming back of Rahul Gandhi whose self- exile lasted several months.
The important item about the refugee problem in Yemen was almost ignored. Almost the whole population of that hapless country are living in refugee camps. The UN has called for donation from member countries, to tide over the situation. Where will this end?

WELCOME RELIEF

WELCOME RELIEF

At about eight in the evening, there was thunder and lightning and light went off. The sound of rain soothed my heart , as the garden was not watered during the previous days. I just watched the rain which lasted FULL FORTYFIVE MINUTES.

Thank God !

SNAPS FROM MY LIFE-grandson

SNAPS FROM MY LIFE-grandson

Being Sunday , my son and his wife decided to go to her home to see the children. As I had not seen my grandson for a long time, I too accompanied them.

We boarded the bus at 8 in the morning  ahd reached Trichur by 8.30. From there we went by the bus for Aryampadam , a cross road between Trichur and Government Hospital, and , Kecheri and Vadakancherry by nine thirty; in all it took only one and a half our , may be because there is less traffic on Sundays.

My grandson began eating rice and vegetable mixed and ground into a paste in mixi. He is yet unable to stand up. His elder cousin sister just stands up; she is two months older.

It was a pleasant trip as my son carried the purse and I just accompanied him .

STORY-DELHIWALLA

DELHIWALLA

My father  graduated just before  Independence and came to Delhi in search of a job. In free India it was easy to get a Government job, as he Secretariat was expanding fast. He became UD clerk in the Ministry of Defence and went up the ladder fast. I was the only child and was pampered by my father. The result was that I did not get good marks and became a graduate with no prospects for a better job.

So I worked hard to prepare for Assistance Grade examination for recruitment of Secretariat assistants. There was no interview for this post , passing written examinations with good marks was enough. I was not dull and managed to get  the job. Father was happy. We had bought our own flat in Lodhi Gardens. Father gave me a bike and soon I got married to a rich , beautiful woman.

In due course, a daughter was born and wife said no more children. I wanted a boy too, but my wife refused. She was given in marriage to a business man who stayed with us . Daughter was working as a beautician. In short, we had become Delhiwallas and never thought of having ing a house in our native place in Keralam.

But Sunanda’s (My wife) father died and now she wanted a house nearby, to be close to her mother. As she is a dictator, I began our search for a plot. Our house in Delhi can be given to my daughter.

My friend invited me to come there during pooram festival season. There in the village, I saw an old house very big and three storeyed , but in a dilapidated condition, with a large compound full of fruit trees and bamboos. I do not know why I fancied that house. Of course , there is a temple and a river nearby. But will Sunanda agree?

When I mentioned it, my host Das laughed at it :”Are you crazy? It is a forest . We can even hear the cries of jackals . I do not know how the old man and his granddaughter live there.”

This whetted my curiosity and we went in to explore the house. The trees mostly mango trees and jack fruit trees did not allow sun light to enter the area. Tall grass covered the ground. I was thrilled . We somehow reached the house standing proudly, proclaiming the glory of the past. Das knocked at the door and a young girl opened it. “May I know who you are? What brings you here?”

“this gentleman from Delhi wants to know whether this house can be bought.” She was wearing only blouse and petty coat. She was dark but had  an aristocratic look. Her full breasts invited my attention. She took us to a room where her guardian lived. He must be around eighty, still very healthy He knew Das. “Hallo young man , I am seeing you after a long time. Now I am unable to walk around. He seemed happy to have somebody to talk:”Gauri, bring tea and biscuits for our guests.”

Without reason, he began talking about the past glory of the family:”There was a time when this house was full of sounds of children and women. We were seven daughters and three men. Now only our children and their children are living in various parts of India and abroad.” The girl brought tea . She had covered her breasts with a towel.

Das:”This gentleman lives in Delhi; he likes to buy this house.”

“I shall be happy. How much will you give, gentleman?”

“His name is Pran. I will consult Kumar the adharam writer about the prevailing rates.” “Fine’; You must leave some area for us to live. I want to die here” So we returned to Das’s house. I talked for a long time to my wife and she finally agreed. “What about our house in Delhi?”

“It is for our daughter. I am not happy about the business of our son-in-law” I took detailed video photos of the old house and returned to Delhi. Das promised to be my agent, not only for the deal, but also to supervise the reconstruction. When the construction began, I applied for VRS. I HAD ENOUGH MONEY. I WAS EAGER TO LIVE  IN THAT FOREST.

The area given to the old man was near the gate. Sunanda lived with her mother. Gauri gladly made food for me also. A unique attachment developed between us. She refused to accept any salary. I bought a car and she used to accompany me to the town.

One night she  called me and I saw the old man . I immediately called Doctor  on phone, but before he came, the old man breathed his last.

After the last rites, Gauri’s father wanted to take her with him. I requested him to leave her with me as a help and the girl was only too happy to remain with me. Only my daughter objected, but she could not say why. Whenever a marriage PROPOSAL CAME, SHE MADE SOME OBJECTION OR OTHER. I too was not eager for it. So we lived happy with each other

DIARY

DIARY (17-4-2015) -MASALA DOSHA

When my wife was here, she used to make masala dosha which I enjoyed very much. I had occasion to eat this yesterday. This is how it happened.

I wanted to continue my work in the Civil Office at Kakanad. I purchased a ticket for Aluva I Instead of KK express, I got into Kannur-TVM superfast train and was surprised to see the response of travelers . I could sell a dozen books in the train. But the train did not stop even at Aluva and in one hour I reached Ernakulam. I walked towards the bus stop and enquired about the Corporation Office , as I had forgotten the location. The cost of the ticket is only Rs. Seven and I sold several books, though the response at Trichur office was much better. Most staff confessed their inability to understand English. Malayalam story book was already sold out . I have given advance for the second edition.

At eleven thirty, I took hot vada and tea at the staff canteen and sold some books in various Banks, Then I boarded a bus which came near Ernakulam North station and got down at Kacheri padi. An auto charged only twenty and luckily there was a train at 1.30. As I was not hungry yet, I did not take meals . It was funny that this train also did not stop anywhere.  The AC coaches where I tried to sell books were blocked on either side and I spent the time standing . By the time I reached Trichur , I was hungry and ordered masal dosha. The diameter of the dosa was more than a foot. Of course, it was tasty but the cost was forty rupees.

I then went to the market to buy soybean. To my utter surprise, the whole sale dealer ‘Best Baker’, from whom I used to by this, had closed his shop. Another shop I knew , had no stock at that time but told me to wait and sent his boy to bring it and I had to wait for some ten minutes. This waiting cost me dear, as I missed my connecting bus at Poochunnipadam, had left a few minutes earlier. The auto charge was sixty rupees.

TO KAKANAD

TO KAKANAD

Yesterday I went to the Civil Station at Kakanad Up to Aluva , I travelled by train and then by KSRTC bus.  A kind man vacated his seat for me and I just showed my book to the fellow sitting by my side. He was studying his messages in the mobile phone and took a long time in seeing my book. Without any hesitation , he bought it and then we started talking. I talked about my latest blog ‘Lawlessness in Kashmir’ and he said he is a lawyer by profession.  “The DIG can just put the man who hoisted the Pakistani flag for his misdeed. It is a shame the BJP is clinging to power shamelessly . “ By the time we reached the Civil Station, he became my friend and  gave me his card. His office is there only and he invited me to come to his office , whenever I came there for rest and a cup of  tea.

Afterwards, I raised the topic with a diehard BJP man. He said:”Kashmir is already gone. Nobody can save it. By remaining in power,  we can consolidate our position and get more seats in the next elections.”

This must be the reason for his Party’s behavior.

LAWLESSNESS IN KASHMIR

LAWLESSNESS IN KASHMIR

Yesterday a Pakistani flag was hoisted , right in front of the office of the Director General of Police in Srinagar and a meeting was held , adreesed by Geelani. Yet , no action was taken against the man. It is reported that such meetings are held daily

Is there no law against this action? Is the Central Government helpless? Why is the BJP keeping mum?

TODAY IS VISHU-I HATE IT

TODAY IS VISHU-I HATE IT

As today is the first day of Medam , I got ready to go to Guruvayoor temple. When I reached the bus stop , I was told that the buses are not running, as today is Vishu. I walked on and reached the centre; luckily one auto was there. So I got to Poochunnipadam. After that all went well. By nine I was in the que. The return journey was smooth.

One thing struck me as strange. All shops and establishments are closed at Chathakudam. If a traveler comes , he will have to starve. The same thing happens during Onam festival. If some one comes to Keralam during Onam or Vishu , he will have to starve. This does not happen in the north.

FATHER AND DAUGHTER

FATHER  AND DAUGHTER

Last two days Sudhir took his daughter Vaikha to his Medical shop. Both were happy to be near each other. The love binding the two is intense and spotless. We cannot say the same about any other relations. Grown up people become selfish and think differently.

The friendship among children is also thick  , for the same reason. However, if they meet after a long time, during which period, they marry and get involved in family and work , they may find it very different , when they come near again. We feel that something of the old friendship is missing. It is sad.

The same thing happens in parent-child friendship also. Parents killing the daughter is not rare, if she tries to marry for love , if the religions vary. Human nature is unpredictable

EXTREME CRUELTY

EXTREME CRUELTY

It happened at about 11 AM today (14-4-2015). A girl was standing in the road along with some women. A car came and hit her. The women tried to lift her ,when the same car came again and hit her , this time very serious injuries were caused to the girl and one of the women. The police says it may be because of refusal of the girl to marry the man who was driving the car. The man has not been identified or arrested. The girl is in a critical condition in ICU.

What is happening to our society?

TUG OF WAR FOR POSSESSION OF AMBEDKAR

TUG OF WAR FOR POSSESSION OF AMBEDKAR

First it was Patel, who was a staunch Congressman, whom Modi extricated from Nehru clan and constructed a huge statue.

Then they found out that Narasimha Rao was abandoned by Congress leaders , after his death. So another statue was due  to be made.

Now , some people claim that Ambedkar was an RSS sympathizer. Congress leaders are not ready to accept it. There was a heated argument in the TV channel.

By the way , do we celebrate HAPPY BIRTH DAY after death? It is shradh that is observed. Why is today a holiday?

WIFE OF SUBHASH BOSE-SOME QUESTIONS

WIFE OF SUBHASH BOSE
“Emilie Schenkl was born in Vienna on 26 December 1910 in an Austrian Catholic family.[6] Paternal granddaughter of a shoemaker and the daughter of a veterinarian, she started primary school late—towards the end of the Great war—on account of her father’s reluctance for her to have formal schooling.[6] Her father, moreover, became unhappy with her progress in secondary school and enrolled her in anunnery for four years.[6] Schenkl decided against becoming a nun and went back to school, finishing when she was 20.[6] The Great Depression had begun in Europe; consequently, for a few years she was unemployed.[6]
She was introduced to Bose through a mutual friend, an Indian physician in Vienna by the name of Dr. Mathur.[6] Since Schenkl could take shorthand and her English and typing skills were good, she was hired by Bose, who was writing his book, The Indian Struggle.[6] They soon fell in love and were married in a secret Hindu ceremony in 1937,[1][2] but without a Hindu priest, witnesses, or civil record. Bose went back to India and reappeared in Nazi Germany during April 1941–February 1943.
Berlin during the war[edit]
Soon, according to historian Romain Hayes, “the (German) Foreign Office procured a luxurious residence for (Bose) along with a butler, cook, gardener, and an SS-chauffeured car. Emilie Schenkl moved in openly with him. The Germans, aware of the nature of the relationship, refrained from any involvement.”[3] However, most of the staff in the Special Bureau for India, which had been set up to aid Bose, did not get along with Emilie.[7] In particular Adam von Trott, Alexander Werth and Freda Kretschemer, according to historian Leonard A. Gordon,[7]
“appear to have disliked her intensely. They believed that she and Bose were not married and that she was using her liaison with Bose to live an especially comfortable life during the hard times of war. For her part, Emilie Schenkl did not like Trott whom she accused of aristocratic snobbery. Whatever the personal sensitivities involved, there also was a strong class bias at work. The Foreign Office officials were highly educated and had aristocratic and upper-middle-class backgrounds. They looked down on the less educated lower or lower-middle-class secretary from Vienna whom they saw living and eating much better than they were in the midst of the war.”[7]
In November 1942, Schenkl gave birth to their daughter. In February 1943, Bose left Schenkl and their baby daughter and boarded a German submarine to travel, via transfer to a Japanese submarine, to Japanese-occupied southeast Asia, where with Japanese support he formed a Provisional Government of Free India and revamped an army, the Indian National Army, whose goal was to liberate India militarily with Japanese help. Bose’s effort, however, was unsuccessful, and he, reportedly, died in a plane crash in Taipei, Taiwan, on 18 August 1945, while attempting to escape to the still Japanese-held town of Dairen (now Dalian) on the Manchurian peninsula.[8]
Later life[edit]
Schenkl and her daughter survived the war.[4][9] During their nine years of marriage, they spent less than three years together, putting strains on Schenkl, which she bore without much complaint.[10] In the post-war years, Schenkl worked shifts in the Trunk Office and was the main breadwinner of her family, which included her daughter and her mother.[10] Although, some family members from Bose’s extended family, including his brother Sarat Chandra Bose, welcomed Schenkl and her daughter and met with her in Austria, Schenkl never visited India, though she lived until 1996. According to her daughter, Schenkl was a very private person and tight-lipped about her relationship with Bose.”[10]
I have quoted from Wikipedia. Some questions:
During the years before the war, Hitler was admired by Indian freedom fighters and many people had went there. There is nothing special about Bose. He could have easily gone to Japan by ship. Why was he and his wife given special treatment during the war?
She lived up to 1996. If she really loved Bose, she would have come to India and pleaded for mercy to INA soldiers. She never came to India. Why this strange behavior?
Was she planted by Hitler, to make use of Bose?

VISHU

VISHU

Normally, Vishu comes on the fourteenth of this month ; this time it is on the fifteenth. This festival is celebrated only in Keralam. The significance of the day is that the Sun comes exactly OVER OUR HEAD AT NOON.

This is the occasion when we have fire works  at home. After seeing the kani (photo of Krishna, laburnum flowers or kanikonna as it is called here, half of a coconut, a piece of gold, vellarika or yellow cucumber etc. are placed and lighted early morning by a lamp) children enjoy light fire works. In the morning after bath, the head of the family gives money to all members of the family. This is the routine on Vishu.

I wish you all happy Vishu !

UDF IN KERALA

UDF IN KERALA MUST BE RENAMED

The condition of the UDF is so pitiable that it should be expanded as Unpredictable Dialectic Frustration.

Speakers in the meeting of the front partners warned that the front has no hope, in the coming Panchayath elections. Corruption charges are too glaring to be ignored. Till now, they had the backing of the Congress high command. After the Party was annihilated in elections to the Parliament, few people will vote for the UDF. Most of them may abstain; this will help the LDF of the Communists.

NO MORE WALKING STICK

BODY REJECTS THE WALKING STICK

I just forgot to carry the stick and did not find it difficult . I can now walk comfortably. For the last several months, it was my constant companion, even when I have only a short distance to walk.

How did it happen? The body is trying to achieve normalcy in its own way. There is a saying in Malayalam-that which comes automatically, goes the same way.

LADY BUS CONDUCTOR

LADY BUS CONDUCTOR

Lady auto driver is not uncommon. Some are working in KSRTC as conductors. I was surprised to see a lady conductor in crowded private bus where one has to squeeze through the crowd to collect money.

She was wearing the uniform and smartly gets in and out of the bus , wherever it stops. I liked it. Normally ladies take more time, to get off the bus.

INTERFERENCE BY VHP

VISWA  HINDU PARISHAT H IS CENSORING FILMS

One film has been boycotted by VHP, because it shows superstition in lime light. Another one was opposed, as it shows a religious Guru in comic posture.

VHP feels it is ruling the nation. Surely they will build Ram temple in Ayodhya. They realize that if they cannot do it in Modi raj, they can never do it. That will be political hara-kiri.

SATYAM COMPUTER SCAM

SATYAM COMPUTER SCAM

The founder of the Satyam computer company, located in Bangalore, Ramalinga Raju has been sentenced for cheating . According to SABI, THE MONEY INVOLVED IS 2000 CRORE.
It is estimated that the loss to the investors may be even more. They made fictitious accounts , magnifying the assets and profits of the company, attracting huge investments. It is a wonder how they could do it. People believe in the Annual Accounts prepared by the Charted Accountants. This should alert the Government, to take measures to protect investors.

US BLOCKADE OF CUBA ENDS

US BLOCKADE OF CUBA ENDS

When Fidel Castro captured power in Cuba, America enforced blockade of that country. Now, they have abandoned that attitude and the leaders of the two neighbouring countries are meeting, to work out a settlement, to reopen diplomatic ties. It is a historic wonder that Cuba has survived American wrath for more than half a century. The fact is that Cuba is not capable of giving oil. Otherwise, the US would have swallowed it in no time. Their anger against Castro was because he is a Communist.

With China also, the Americans took a long time to realize that enmity does not pay. Now the Chinese are their best economic friend.  I wonder why Obama took this much time to see things in proper perspective. The Head of the Government must be a philosopher and good statesman.

YEMEN-PAKISTAN IS WITH IS

YEMEN-PAKISTAN IS WITH IS

All other countries are one, with the victims of terror attack in Yemen. But Pakistan has declared that it will not join the fight against IS. This is open defiance of the international community. The massacre of civilians in Yemen calls for united action against the IS slaughterers. How can any one justify murder of women and children?

DIARY

DIARY-(11-4-2015)

More than a dozen pensioners , above the age of eighty ,  had been invited to attend the annual meeting of the Pensioners Association, Trichur, to be honoured.

I reached the venue at nine, though the time notified was ten. Even at ten, there were only a few people. The meeting began by about eleven. First of all, we stood up to remember those who had left us during the one year. Then the elders were given a shaul, bordered with golden thread. We were allowed to speak for some time. I introduced myself and briefly described my career and other life activities like writing books. There was a Lady whose daughter too had retired !

We were given vada and tea.

The proceedings lingered and I left at twelve. When I reached Shakthan stand, a KSRTC limited stop bus was about to start. Luckily , it did not stop anywhere and I reached Poochunnipadam by one o clock. In another ten minutes, Chethy bus for Chathakudam arrived. Had I been late, I would have to pay Rs. 60 auto charge.

GOLD IN TEMPLES

GOLD IN TEMPLES

Narendra Modi has hit upon the idea of depositing gold stored in temple vaults in Nationalized Banks. The banks will give money to the Government. In Padmanabhaswamy temple in Thiruvanathapuram alone will fetch lakhs of crores of rupees which can be used for redeeming the loans of the Government. Similar accumulation of gold and jewelry in other temples too, can be used this way.

I think this is a good idea. I do not think Gods like gold.

CALLING BELL

CALLING BELL

We say calling bell; but now the buzzer is common. There is considerable variety in the sound produced, when we press it.

Normally, unpleasant ear-piercing sound is produced, but sometimes sweet music  is heard, ending in the words ”Please open the door.”

Some produce gayathry manthr-om bhoor bhuvsawa…;or om namassivaya. A real bronze dumb bell , like the one we see in the temple, is not uncommon. My experience is that in such houses, the inmates are likely to buy books.

A rare experience comes to mind. The door was open and a man was sitting in the far back, reading. I pressed the buzzer and the man  came shouting angrily:”Can you not see me? Why did you not call me? By pressing the bell, you have wasted my electricity.”

I said sorry and did not even show my book.

Have you ever thought of the reason for hanging a bell in the temple? My uncle explained it:”Gods are always sitting with closed eyes, meditating. When we ring it, they open their eyes. We Namboodiris introduce ourselves and greet God:”I am Subramanin; please accept my obeisance.”

“Subrahmania Sharma nama ahamasmibho.” Then we hold our ears crosswise , left ear with right hand, and bow . Uncle told me one more thing. As we are visiting Him, we must sit in front of Him at least for a few seconds. Do we not sit, when we visit a relative?

YEMEN AND INDIAN NURSES

YEMEN AND INDIAN NURSES

Yamaraj is the God of death. His Kingdom Yemen is witnessing the death dance. The IS forces are advancing and thousands of Indian nurses are still trapped in the war zone. Now the air services, to evacuate them has been stopped.

Nursing is the noblest of all professions. Because of the huge demand, our women are learning this work  and we can be proud of this fact. But have we laws for regulating their service conditions and safety? The law makers remember them only when there is a crisis. Their salary is pitiable, though they work for eight hours, including night duty.

Living among the diseased, it is a wonder that they maintain a smiling face always! Yet, many men may not like to marry them. There is a misconception that they are not chaste. Living in extremely unfavourable circumstances, I will not blame them, if they indulge in some joy and earn money in the process. We must admit that almost all men are unfaithful to their wives.

MODI HAS OPENED A HORNET’S NEST IN KASHMIR

MODI HAS OPENED A HORNET’S NEST  IN KASHMIR

I wonder why the  Prime Minister of this country is behaving this way.

First he made the blunder of aligning with the separatist forces in Kashmir, merely to share power, against the advice of the RSS. Now  he wants to rehabilitate the Pandits inside the valley, from where they were forced to flee because of Muslim fanatics. Today the people are agitating against this move.  Efforts of the police to control the move have failed.  Tomorrow they have called for a bandh.

It is impossible to convince the militant Muslims . The past cannot be undone. Pandits may be given aid to settle themselves in Jammu. That is the sane way.

CONFLICT NEAR TIRUPATHY FOREST

CONFLICT NEAR TIRUPATHY FOREST

Several people were shot dead by the Andhra Police in an ‘encounter’. This area is rich in ‘rakthachandan’ much in demand in China. People used to cut the trees like sandalwood smugglers. The theory of encounter is discounted by commentators. But the Police maintains that they were Naxalites who snatched guns from the Police.

As the people killed, belong to Tamilnadu , the relations between the two neighbours have become explosive. ADMK is angry with the Andhra Government. It is necessary to conduct independent enquiry, to uncover the truth.

SUBHASH BOSE NEVER DIES

SUBHASH BOSE  NEVER DIES

West Bengal Government has declassified a number of documents relating to the late Subhash Bose. These papers are highly damaging to the reputation of old players in the field like Winston Churchill, Jawaharlal Nehru etc. and the Thrinamool Congress MPs are waiting for the Parliament to reopen, to raise the issue there.

One thing we Indians must not forget; Bose fought alongside the Japanese Imperialism. Japan was on the side of Hitler in World War -2. While we Indians admire Bose, the Western Powers hate him.

What is required is objectivity. One must not be emotional, while researching historical events.

SNAPS FROM MY LIFE-marriage

SNAPS FROM MY LIFE-marriage

When  my cousin Sasi called on me , I thought it was a routine visit

Actually he wanted to convey the good news that his son has been engaged to one Neeraja of Edakunnu wariam.

He told me the marriage may be in May this year. It is really a good news, because he had been trying for this for a long time.

STORY-HERO

HERO

He was our hero in the college. Handsome and articulate, he is the leader in the College Union. We girls liked him and wanted to befriend him. We used to invite him into the canteen and feed him . He liked to eat. One day I took him out in my car and we went to a restaurant . During the talk, he explained his background.

“My father was a drunkard. Due to this weakness, he lost the Government job and we were forced to vacate the Government quarter. Now we are living in a rented house in the slum area. My uncle is financing my studies.”

“What happened to father?”

“He came in front of a car; he was fully drunk. It was a good riddance.”

“How can I help you? I have plenty of money. Take this ATM; INFORM ME WHEN IT IS NEAR ZERO”

He accepted it after much persuasion. I felt happy.  My hero is now within my reach. I know our marriage is an impossibility. At least, we can love freely. It is a great consolation.

He was senior and left the college earlier . I persuaded my father to give him some job in his business . He began studying hard to get through IAS. He was working up to midnight. He was given one room in my house.

One day we went to see his mother. She was glad to see me. She was doing tailoring to earn money. My hero (Vipin) gave her his salary  and a sari. He asked her:”Do you like this girl?” I bent forward and touched her feet. She embraced me.

After completing my studies, I went to Calcutta to meet my grandfather who was very ill. I decided to stay on there, because of grandmother’s condition. Doctors said the end is near.

I was in  Calcutta when I was a child. Grandmother came to Keralam only once, if I remember correctly. Her husband was a Chatterji. A young man of this family used to talk to me often. He is a Professor not yet married. I liked him and we used to roam in the City often. It seems grandma also approved of this alliance. I did talk to Vipin often, but the old enthusiasm was waning . My new hero fully occupied my mental horizon . I almost felt guilty. In this case, there is no objection to marriage. Yet my old fondness for Vipin remained.

One day my father informed that he has passed IAS examination  and is appearing for interview in Delhi. Before returning home, he intended to visit Calcutta. He talked highly about his work in our business and wanted to him a suitable gift. He asked me to suggest the gift.

In the meantime, grandma passed away and I returned to Keralam with my father who had come to attend her last rites. He asked me whether I liked Vipin and I said yes. He suggested that he has no objection to our marriage. So our marriage was decided during the plane journey itself.

BRIBE FOR LIQUOR

BRIBE FOR LIQUOR

For more than six months, this topic dominates the Malayalam TV channels. There are allegations against K.M.Mani that he took bribe from alcohol merchants . The charge has come from several sources and the Vigilance Department is enquiring it.  Some commentators say that the Government will not take any action till the Panchayath elections are over.

The enquiry against Chief Minister Ooman Chandi , in what is known as the Saritha case is still going on. People gave money for getting Solar Electricity, to this woman, with the connivance of this the CM, it is alleged. Many people got back their money.

In the agitation against the Government , The Secretariat was blocked for three days! This is Kerala, described by Vivekananda as country of mad men…

HARTAL(8-4-2015)

ONE MORE HARTAL (8-4-2015

This has become a real nuisance. I wanted to go to Calicut; instead, I roamed in my village selling books. After walking for two hours, I sold all books in my bag and then came the real problem: how to go back?

Normally autos are available. I cursed whoever decided this hartal. College examinations had to be postponed. Luckily, a scooterwala gave me a lift.

SNAPS FROM MY LIFE-mundu

 

SNAPS FROM MY LIFE-mundu

In the morning there was no egg, so I thought I will go to Guruvayoor temple. While changing from pants to mundu, the belt strap got detached. So I was forced to wear mundu on the return journey.

 

WON FITY LAKHS

A carpenter, who is well read and very daring, went away, after winning fifty lakh rupees, in 'ningalkumavam kodeswaran' I too enjoyed his success.
With 12,50,000, he was on the point of walking away with it. His phone friend too advised him this safe course, after telling him the correct answer As is his habit, Suresh Gopi went on teasing him making him totally confused. The poor boy wept, when the answer was correct.
He wants to build own house.

CONTEMPT OF COURT

Modi has ridiculed the entire Judiciary, by describing the Judges as five star.
During the debate in India Today channel, one judge even went to the extent of saying that the Prime Minister can be punished for contempt of Court.
Why does  Modi say such things?

HOME( 6-4-2015)

HOME (6-4-2015)

We have no mango tree in our land. Neighbours give us plenty of ripe mangoes and my son eats several fruits daily. It is not good for diabetic patients, but I too take one or two.

The juice can be dried and spread on mats and dried in the sun. Sheets of the dried pieces are sold in the market in Andhra Pradesh. We used to buy in the trains.

My wife has booked ticket for eighth May. That is really good news.

Rain

Almost daily, it is raining in the night.  This is good for the coconut trees. We have some fifty banana trees also.

Cooking

In the absence of my wife, I have been cooking food. I learned it even as a child. I like it but hate washing of dishes . My son does this

RENAMING THE CAPITAL

Capital

Welcome to the Imperial City: Modi sarkar's bizarre proposal to rename Delhi

I suggest the name INDRAPRASTH

HOME

HOME (6-4-2015)

We have no mango tree in our land. Neighbours give us plenty of ripe mangoes and my son eats several fruits daily. It is not good for diabetic patients, but I too take one or two.
The juice can be dried and spread on mats and dried in the sun. Sheets of the dried pieces are sold in the market in Andhra Pradesh. We used to buy it in the trains.
Rains
 
Almost daily, it is raining in the night.  This is good for the coconut trees. We have some fifty banana trees also.

Cooking

In the absence of my wife, I have been cooking food. I learned it even as a child. I like it but hate washing of dishes . My son does this

SNAPS FROM MY LIFE-Nabi

SNAPS FROM MY LIFE-Nabi
For selling books, I went to Moorkanur. In front of the door of one house , it is written in bold letters: THOSE WHO DO NOT FOLLOW Mohammad are not welcome inside this house .
I felt shocked at the narrow mindedness of the inmates.

STORY-SEPARATION

SEPARATION

After retirement, I wanted to stay on in the Project area, as we did not have even a plot of land in Keralam. My wife opposed it. Her father had promised to give ten cents of land from his ancestral property,  to build a house. I did not receive any dowry and this can be treated as compensation, according to him.

Somehow I did not like the idea but the will of my wife prevailed and we came to stay in her home, till construction is over. It took  about two years to complete the work. My wife (Sarala) took full charge of, not only the kitchen, but agricultural activities too, as she liked it . Both my brother-in-law and his wife had to go to school and Sarala enjoyed the work. We had no children and she lost enthusiasm in sex. In short I became disappointed in all ways.

Naturally Father-in-law  sent me for all work  in the market . I became like a servant in the wife house. I remembered the days spent in the Project. As I was a Gazetted Officer and obliging to all, I was popular and respected. Our neighbor was a Gujarathi widow, a teacher in the school. She had one son, who was master in computer work  and got a job in the US. 

Sarala was secretary of the Women’s Club and was often late in coming home. The teacher (Meeraben) used to entertain me, whenever Sarala came late and our friendship thickened , in course of time.  She was always hungry for sex .

She went to the US after retirement and we lost contact. One day I got a phone call from her:”Halo! How are you Sukumaran? Could you recognize me ? I am back in India and in fact I am here in Kerala . I got down at Palakad on a tour of South India. Give me your address.”

“Wait at the Railway Retiring room. I shall come within an hour. Note down my address.” I told my wife. She too was excited .

When I reached Palakad  I was surprised to see a boy with her. “This is your uncle about whom I used to tell you.” The boy bent and touched my feet. Somehow I felt a glow of warmth at his touch. We returned in a taxi car. “Why didn’t you buy a car?” “We never used to go on tour; you shall see when we reach home.” The boy was very excited to see Keralam.

The guests stayed in the upstairs  room of our house. The view from the top of the hill is really fantastic.

As her father was bedridden, she was unable to accompany us in our tour of South India. We bought a car (it was her money) and went from place to place, covering both temples and picnic spots. Her son , now married and with a kid, used to call her daily.

At Goa we spent a week , enjoying various beaches. At Dona Pola, the boy was enjoying the ride in water scooter. I casually asked her:”Who is this boy?” She smiled and said:”Your boy. Before you left I had become pregnant. As the nurses in our Project knew I am a widow, I went to a Hospital in Gujarath far away from home and my friend looked after the boy. When I retired  and went to the US, I took the boy named Gagan with me . I told my son that he is adopted by me. Still I have not disclosed the truth to him. But I told him about our friendship. I do not know how to explain it to him.” I kissed her. Our journey continued and it was Pondicherry that she liked best. I knew a friend there  and we discussed about buying a plot of land near the sea. I too liked it. It was always my dream to settle at the sea shore. “I have a plot in our Project area. That time I got it cheap. As we know the people there, life will be easy. What do you say? Shall we settle there? Or here?” I said :”I have to be near my wife; so it is better here.” We stayed with my friend till the completion of the preliminary works till the consultancy agreement was signed. Then we proceeded to Tirupathy. We enjoyed the tour of Andhra Pradesh and then the Himalayas . Finally it was back to Pondicherry.

By this time, our house was ready and we settled down. Gagan was put in the school. We gave our names as parents. Once every year we went to my wife house.

LUNAR ECLIPSE

LUNAR ECLPIPSE

Right now , when I am writing this  (6.15 PM on 4-4-2015), Lunar eclipse has begun and all temples are closed. I have not seen this in the North.

In earlier days, Namboodiris remain indoors, without touching bed etc.  Otherwise, these too must be dipped in the pond, while taking bath after the eclipse. No food or water will be given during the eclipse

 If the eclipse happens on one’s birth star, atonement has to be done by doing rituals.

Early ma was terrified by the sight of the moon or sun being devoured by a shadow . In total solar eclipse, the earth becomes dark. Even the birds and animals get frightened. This may be the reason about superstitions around the eclipse.

GOOD FRIDAY

SNAPS FROM MY LIFE-GOOD FRIDAY

I wanted to buy medicines. But all medical shops were closed, because it was Good Friday. The number of buses was reduced. Restaurants were closed. I am told that in the USA, THIS DAY IS NOT A HOLIDAY.

SMOKING AND CANCER

IS SMOKING HARMLESS?

Last night there was a heated discussion about smoking and cancer. We always read ‘smoking is harmful, it can cause cancer’ in films and also on the wrapper of the cigarette case. A committee of BJP MPs have come to the conclusion, that such advertisement must be abolished, as there is no scientific proof for this. It was revealed during discussion, that the MPs had no scientific background. On the other hand, another BJP MP from Assam, an experienced Doctor , stoutly defended the advertisement (Now smoking is prohibited in public places- this ban will be lifted). He pointed out that lakhs of smokers are actually cancer patients. Young people are more likely to be affected.

What is shocking is the motive for this change in the law. It is pressure from cigarette manufacturers. Is Modi Government ruled by capitalists? We can see other instances too, of Government giving in, to pressure from the private sector, especially in the department of Environment.

A sustained campaign is called for, to liberate Government from Capitalists

CHIEF JUSTICE OF THE SUPREME COURT

SUPREME COURT CHIEF JUSTICE IS ANTI-CHRISTIAN?
Good Friday is the most sacred day of Christians all over the world. On this day the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court called a meeting of the Judges . He could have waited till tomorrow or done it two days earlier. Justice Kurien has taken exception to this unprecedented act. Would he have called such a meeting on Diwali day?, Kurien asked.
Swearing in ceremony of new Ministers of the Central Cabinet also happened today. Modi is simply rubbing chilli powder on Christians. Why such petty outlook on the part of the Prime Minister , who should be the leader of the nation?

FREAK ACCIDENT

TRIPLE ACCIDENT AT POOCHUNNIPADAM

It happened in the night of first April, 2015

A lorry was carrying an elephant, from Calicut, for participating in the pooram festival at Arattupuzha. At the culvert near Poochinnipadam, a car came in front of the truck and hit it apparently in trying to save the motor bike . The lorry tilted and the elephant feel down. The mahouts were also injured and hospitalized.. The elephant was given saline glucose. Its one leg is fractured, it seems.

In the night there may not be much traffic. It may be a freak accident.

NO BUS STAND AT IRIJALAKUDA

WHERE IS THE BUS STAND  AT IRIJALAKUDA?

I had purchased a ticket for Irinjalakuda. After walking for two hours, selling books, I thought of tea and snacks at the vanitha shop at the bus stand. But the bus stopped at a spot, not familiar to me. I was told that the bus stand has been demolished . So I had to come back hungry till I reached Oorakam.

While waiting for my bus, I gave small coins received from sale of books to the Margin free market . These were worth Rs. 38, but he gave me four ten rupee notes and thanked me.

Today’s collection included a fifty rupee note without Gandhi’s head. Once I had got a tenner without his head.

HOME

HOME (2-4-2015)

With my wife far away in Delhi, I have full freedom to work on the computer any time of the night. She used to object to my working on odd hours. I wake up at three in the early morning , make tea and sit before the machine, which is my close friend. At this time, the net is also very friendly.  Now my daughter-in-law has come back and the problem of food is solved.

I am free, as I was before marriage.

SNAPS

SNAPS FROM MY LIFE-tea

I was going along a road, till now unexplored by me , as sales man of my books. I had been walking for two hours and approached a young lady.. She said she cannot buy the book, without permission of the Mother. Then only I realized that it is not a private family.

“Is there any tea shop ahead in this road?” I enquired. She said:”Uncle, please sit down. I shall gladly offer you tea. There is no shop in this neighborhood.”

She brought hot tea, without sugar. “If you like, I shall bring sugar.”

“I take tea without sugar; thank you.”

I have never tasted better tea. Jesus bless her!

 

ETTUMANA

ETTUMANA

Today I went to a place called Ettumana, to sell books. I have only heard of this place. An elderly man explained that it is actually Ettumuna, which became Ettumana in course of time. In his childhood there was no road. Now there is a good road , but no bus service, as it is a circular road. I contacted a number of houses and was satisfied with my mission. In one place, the lady did not buy book, but entertained me with ‘sambharam’ (lassi) and unni-appam.

She explained that, it being Arattupuzha pooram today, they prepared appam for guests. I thanked her heartily

NARASIMHA RAO

STATUE OF NARASIMHA RAO BEING ERECTED IN GUJARATH

Former Prime Minister Narasimha Rao was instrumental in bringing Manmohan Singh as his Finance Minister, to introduce ‘globalisation’ of the economy here. It changed the face of the economy here. But the Congressmen ignored him after his death. His body was not placed for public viewing in the Capital, but was flown to Hyderabad.

Now Narendra Modi is constructing a statue of Rao in Gujarath. Why?

It is well known that Rao could have prevented the demolition of Babri Masjid, by blocking the amassing of volunteers there . He turned a Nelson eye all the while. Congress leader Sardar Patel is also given a statue in Gujarath.

HEAVYN FLOODS IN SRINAGAR

HEAVY FLOODS IN SRINAGAR

Flood waters have cut off the High Way from Srinagar. Local people say that this has happened because of failure of the authorities, to take remedial measures .It means no lessons have been drawn from last year’s flood in the valley

Modi must punish the guilty.