SNAPS FROM MY 1IFE-friendship

SNAPS FROM MY 1IFE-friendship I met an interesting personality. Let us call her D She was talking fluently in English in her mobile and I sat beside her on the Railway platform bench, sure that she will buy my English Autobiography. D:”We both were studying in the Law College. He was much senior and we loved each other. He used to come on a scooter, I clearly remember. Somehow my parents who were not aware of it, decided my marriage to a business man “ “Was he knowing your affair?” “Yes . I told him and he just laughed , saying all teenagers have love mania. My dilemma is that we all have been invited to attend the same marriage here.” “Why? It means you still retain your love? “No. I know that the past is past. Still I shall be happy if I am not going there.” My patience was running out. “I said: excuse me , I have a book here . See if you like to buy it.” She turned to me and grabbed the book. She told her friend:” I shall call in a few minutes” She was very pleased to get the book. Then we talked about each other. She is living in Singapore . She wanted to keep up our ‘friendship’ and promised to contact me soon.

ADIVASIS AND EDUCATION

ADIVASIS ARE DENIED EDUCATION In the hill districts of Iduki and Vynad, there are one teacher schools. Both the teacher and the students have to walk miles, through forests, climbing hills . The teacher gets a salary of about three thousand. As it is not economical, Government is about to abolish such schools. This will be a big blow to adivasis, who do not have dwellings, water supplies or ration cards. Does not the Government have a responsibility towards these tribal people? Are they to be recruited to the army of Naxalites?

FLOWERS AND MUSIC

FLOWERS AND MUSIC In Keralam, people are not crazy about flowers . Here flowers are almost reserved for gods. Laksharchana needs a lot of flowers. Even otherwise, ladies carry flowers to be offered to Him. In the neighbouring Tamilnadu, you cannot see a woman, without a huge boutique of flowers on her head. Jasmine is common. People must be growing the plant at home. There is no mention of flowers in Ramayana and Mahabharath. Similar is the case with music. There, every family will have a harmonium .In Keralam it is very rare. In Christian Churches, organ playing is common. (Allah does not like music it seems. Both flowers and music are not allowed in Mosques) The oldest musical instrument is the flute. Even at the time of Mahabharath, Krishn used the flute. It is very easy to make with a piece of bamboo. Saraswathy’s veena is too complicated.

MANMOHAN SINGH -MODI MEETING

MANMOHAN SINGH-MODI MEETING After one year in office, there was a meeting between Modi and former Minister Manmohan Singh. Speculators attach much significance to this meeting. Singh remarked that corruption is not an issue. All are agreed that Singh is not corrupt. But he connived at whatever was going on behind the scene. It was rumoured that Sonia Gandhi would clear the files first, before sending it to PMO. But in the Court, proceedings were going on against Singh, from which there was no escape. Did he confess everything to Modi and plead for deliverance? His confession will pinpoint Sonia the real enemy of Modi. What were they discussing?

COLD WAR IN DELHI

COLD WAR IN DELHI In the cold war between Lt. Governor and Kejriwal, all non-BJP parties have thrown their weight in favour of AAP leader. This is a pointless interference by the Lt. Governor. Should not the Chief Minister decide who should assist him in his official duties?

AAP

AAP OPENS ACCOUNT IN KERALAM For the first time, a candidate of AAP has won a seat in elections. His name is Tomy Elisseril. He won the Cherthala North ward by three votes. Now, both LDF and UDF have equal number of seats. AAP will decide which one will have majority . The significance of the win cannot be overemphasized. The electorate is fed up with both Fronts. AAP can fill the vacuum

MILMA MILK

< /div> COST OF MILMA MILK Milma is the agency that collects milk from farmers who are given a fixed price , after testing the butter content. The cost of buying artificial feeds from the merchants, is high. There is shortage of grass. In these circumstances , the cost of milk collected must be raised. At the same time, consumers like me, whose number far exceeds the number of farmers , will suffer if cost is increased. To help us, there is a proposal to subsidize milk. This is wise. There are merchants, who import milk from Tamilnadu. They adulterate it, to sell cheaper than Milma . A Dairy Corporation on modern lines must be launched by the Government. Crores of rupees can be amassed by floating shares. Such farms are rare here.

DIARY(27-5-15)

DIARY (27-5-15) The day began on a dirty note. I felt intense nausea. Loose motion is not so disgusting. If we vomit, the whole body becomes too weak to stand up. I wanted to sell my books. I fried two eggs and ate it with coffee. Somehow I managed to reach the bus stop and then the Railway platform. The RPF told me, this is not allowed inside the Railway boundary. By that time I had sold one book(autobiography). It was too early for banks to open. Then I sold one book and engaged an auto for Shakthan stand. When the auto reached near the Town Hall, I got down . There I noticed a Government Office , not known to me earlier and went in. As an introduction, I showed the report about me in the Mathrubhoomi daily. The lady was overjoyed to see it. She said:”I have been thinking of meeting you, after reading the report. Today I am lucky.” She bought one book and canvassed among the staff . In all, I sold seven books that day. I wanted tea, but went to the vanitha canteen and ordered milk instead of tea, because I was afraid of vomiting. It cost only twelve rupees.

MODI’S LARGESSE

MODI’S LARGESSE Modi went to Mangolia and announced a large amount of aid to that small country, disproportionate to it size and population. It would have been a joke, but for the fact it is the taxpayers money. Has he any authority to pay our money?

STORY-MIDNIGHT KNOCK

MIDNIGHT KNOCK I am the Doctor in charge of Government clinic in a remote village. The City hospital is far away and often I had to sit till all the patients are examined. Mostly they are poor people, as the rich ones could drive to the expensive private Hospital where they charge minimum hundred rupee. My wife tells me to go for such Hospitals , but by temperament I like to serve the villagers. By the time I come home, I am sufficiently tired and go to sleep by ten. When they knocked at my door , very late in the night, I knew there is some emergency. “Doctor, a woman is bleeding and has become unconscious; please come.” There were half a dozen people living in my neighborhood. I hurriedly put on my shirt , someone carried my bag and we went to the hut where the woman was groaning with pain. She may be around thirty and fair to look at. “Where is her husband?” There was no reply. “She and the little girl came here recently. We do not know much about them. She is working as domestic help” Meanwhile I examined her. A tumor has burst in her uterus. It has to be cleaned immediately. There is no time to be lost. I told them to carry her and place her in my car. “One of you must hold her; inform my nurse to come with me” The operation was carried out in an hour. Then I took her to the district Hospital. Only an Assistant Surgeon was there . I gave him a written account of the whole incident:”In case she dies, post mortem report is to be sent to me.” When I went back, they were waiting . The girl was crying. “Mother will be all right ”I consoled her . She may be around ten. I took her with me and spread a mat on the floor, in my office room. She soon went to sleep. Then I went to my bed room. Wife was fast asleep . She woke up at seven and I told her about the girl. She did not say anything. She belong to a rich family and has contempt for the poor . Miraculously, the mother survived; a day later, she was brought home in an ambulance. Father of the Church came to see me in the Hospital. He congratulated me for the success of the operation. “You are not merely a Doctor; You are a true Christian, rare in these times .” “What shall we do with the family? I do not know their religion. Can the Church do something to look after the child at least?” “We can put the child in the orphanage She is too big for the primary section. We will give him special tuition and she can appear in the tenth examination privately. Can you not employ the woman as your domestic help?” Thus it was settled. Father reported that the girl(Susan)is brilliant in her studies . After just two years, she appeared in tenth standard examination and afterwards in plus two. She qualified for medical entrance test. I was financing all her expenses. For medicine we sent her to London , as a Father from London was very much impressed by her brilliance. Then we lost contact with her . Meanwhile her mother ran way with a man . My wife was always unhappy with her and now she sneered me. “She is a slut. You were foolish to take interest in such people, without knowing their background” Susan used to write to me at first. Then she too stopped writing. Time obliterated even her memory. One fine morning she phoned me from New York;”Uncle, I am coming there . I want to set up a clinic for the very poor people . There will be free treatment and free medicines . A society has sponsored the project. I want you to be the Director of the Project” It was then, that I remembered that midnight knock.

A BIZZARE WAY

A bizarre way In Argentina, ladies in mass, paraded naked in the streets. They were propagating the evil effects of caesarian operation! . Some were breast feeding their babies. On either side of the streets, people thronged to watch this demonstration. This movement is spreading to other countries in South America. Why is North America lagging behind

TID BIDS-DELIVERY AT THE AGE OF 65

TID BIDS-DELIVERED FOUR CHILDREN AT THE AGE OF 65 Anigra Rowling, a Berliner gave birth to four children, three boys and one girl. She underwent artificial insemination. She is a school teacher. When her ten year old girl child persistently pestered her for another sister, she did it, according to reports. Let us pray for long life to all the children!

MODI'S FIRST YEAR

MODI’S FIRST YEAR IN OFFICE I wracked my brain hard ,to find at least one item of success. Alas! There is none. FAILURES Could not appoint Lokayuktha 2)No recovery of black money from Swiss bank 3)Could do nothing to ameliorate farmers’ woes 4)Economy is stagnant. 5)Money not invested by foreign countries, though he went with a begging bowl to all countries 6)Cost of articles going sky high, mainly because of transport cost. 7)Kashmir is the biggest failure. There is no boundary between India and Pakistan. Pakistan may take over Kashmir any time. 8)Disgusted religions of minorities, by attacking Churches and ‘ghar vapsy’ All else may be ignored; but common man is groaning under steep rice in prices.

JAYALALITHA, THE IRON LADY

JAYALALITHA, THE IRON LADY I WELCOME THE ASCEND TO THE THRONE, OF THE TAMILNADU ICON, JAYALALITHA. She proved her mettle, by arresting Sankaracharya of Kanchi, in the Sankararamanan murder case. No other person would have dared to touch the Hindu ‘god’ But for her steadfast opposition to the introduction of Hindi , Modi would have succeeded in bringing that language through the back door. We need a strong person like Indira Gandhi, who was described as the only ‘man’ in the Cabinet. She would not have tolerated continued incursion by Pakistani soldiers in Kashmir. Jaya is a strong contender for Premiership of India. I wish her all success!

LAND MARK JUDGMENT ABOUT MAOISTS

LAND MARK JUDGMENT ABOUT MAOISTS The Kerala High Court has ruled that a man cannot be arrested merely because he is a Maoist. Like any other Party, Maoist Party is doing legitimate political activity. In the context of support by the Communist Party of India, this Judgment is a boost to Maoists. Those who espouse the cause of people in the forests, who are denied food, shelter, education, health care etc., are dubbed as Maoists and put behind the bars. Maoism must be fought by education and improvement of tribal people.

HONEY ACCUMULATION

FOUR TON UNSOLD HONEY Tribal people collect wild honey and sell it to plains people. The failure of the Government agencies , to buy this valuable item from them and sell it has resulted in accumulation of honey to the tune of four tons. There must be advertisements about the benefits of honey and it can be sold through maveli stores etc. The best way to help tribal people, is to buy honey and sell it in the market

MALABAR CEMENT FRAUD

CONTROLLER AND AUDITOR GENERAL’S REPORT ABOUT MALABAR CEMENT CO. In his report , the Controller and Auditor General has pointed out fraud to the tune of 108 crore rupees , by the Management of Malabar Cements Company. The Minister for Home, Kerala Government , has accepted the report and expressed his readiness for CBI enquiry. The interests of the share holders of the company, must be protected, at any cost.

STORY-LOCK OUT

LOCK OUT I was working as writer in a rubber plantation in Munnar. Our only daughter was in the College . My wife belongs to a rich family at Kollam , but she loved me dearly and life seemed smooth and happy. So the notice of lock out by the Management, was bolt from the blue My wife Devu was thrifty and she used to invest in chit funds etc. I told her:” Do not tell your family. I have friends at Jamshedpur. I will go there and try to get some work. Give me some money for rail fare. I shall stay with my friend” At the time of departure she cried. It was the first time I left her alone:”Be brave; I shall call you there as soon as I get some work, eve that of a peon” It was my first travel to the North. I did not know Hindi, but there were Malayalees in the train and did not have any difficulty. My friend was waiting at the station. We talked about family matters and reached his flat. His wife is fair to look at and charming I her movements:”You are lucky”, I told him. For the time being, I got the job of a watchman in a housing Society. A one room shack was given for my stay. I informed Devu and she came with a friend known to us , leaving our daughter in her home. She was happy that we are united again. It was in her home that I first saw the sea. Whenever I felt , I went and watched the sea. Devu used to say:”If you like it here , you must try for a job here.” But I did not have much education. My father knew the Englishman who owned the rubber estate. So he managed to give me the work of the ‘writer’, which is management of the labour, keeping record of their salary, leave etc. Devu was very happy, as she loved the hills. She was very popular among the Union workers and knew in advance, about the impending lock out.”Why didn’t you tell me?” ”I did not like to cause pain to you; I thought I will bring you to my home and give you some work.” We used to go about the country side . I found that there were no grocery shops on this side of the rail. Even women would go three miles , crossing the rail to brig atta , vegetables , salt etc. “Why not open a shop here?”, I asked Devu. She wholeheartedly approved the idea. With the permission of the society, I put up a temporary room with asbestos roof . I engaged a local boy and stocked all items needed by people , including bangles and bindi. Devu used to come after cooking is over; now we lived in a similar room, behind the shop. I need not say the business prospered. Hearing our success story , my daughter came to see it personally. She is a commerce graduate and knows computer . She made soft ware for accounting on her lap top. At her instance, I bought desk top machine and now billing is done on computer. I gave strict instructions that if any item is returned as below quality, the money should be returned. Such things (very rare) are used at home. Message came from home that her marriage is fixed. As all of us cannot leave this place , I sent mother and daughter home.

SIBLINGS

SIBLINGS It is difficult to look after Prakshanth, so my wife suggested that he may be sent to his mother house. Now his sister Vaikha is clamouring to see the boy. “You too go with him ,”I suggested. “I want to be with nani(grandmother),”was the reply. A lonely child needs company. If the siblings are of opposite sex , the bond is all the more stronger. A sister’s love is unselfish. They know each other from childhood. Quarrel is normal but soon forgotten. When parents are no more, siblings are a great comfort.

KITCHEN GARDEN

KITCHEN GARDEN For the first time, a mango tree which grew up in our garden gave some fruits . This is the only such tree here. We all felt happy. Ordinary plantain(not the big banana)grow plenty here, without anyone caring. Big bunches have been cut several times. Every day we pluck ‘covaka’, pumpkin etc., all growing wild. Plenty of rains helped the plants to give more fruits.

LIGHT TRAVELS BY MOMENTUM

LIGHT TRAVELS BY MOMENTUM If the engine of a speedy train is switched off , the train will not come to a halt. It will continue to run; this is called momentum. Newton’s first law of inertia. When photons (light particles) are pushed off the Sun, with tremendous force, they will continue to run indefinitely . Philosophically, this is untenable because nothing is permanent. Change is the law. Remember that there are myriads of suns. Photons emitted by them are bound t meet in space and coalesce, forming bigger and bigger mini-suns (all suns are stars) which get attracted together , to form black holes. In due course, the pressure inside, will cause bursting of the black bodies, throwing photons into space. The cycle will continue. This is my theory.

LIGHT TRAVELS BY MOMENTUM

LIGHT TRAVELS BY MOMENTUM If the engine of a speedy train is switched off , the train will not come to a halt. It will continue to run; this is called momentum. Newton’s first law of inertia. When photons (light particles) are pushed off the Sun, with tremendous force, they will continue to run indefinitely . Philosophically, this is untenable because nothing is permanent. Change is the law. Remember that there are myriads of suns. Photons emitted by them are bound t meet in space and coalesce, forming bigger and bigger mini-suns (all suns are stars) which get attracted together , to form black holes. In due course, the pressure inside, will cause bursting of the black bodies, throwing photons into space. The cycle will continue. This is my theory.

WHEAT DOSA

SNAPS FROM MY LIFE-wheat dosa Before going to Bombay in search of a job, I stayed with my uncle at Palace no. 11,Tripunithura for some days. He used to eat dosa made of wheat flour mixed with plenty of water and made into dosa, as he was diabetic. I would carry it and coffee from the kitchen to uncle’s room. On the way the day’s newspaper was lying and , to pick it , I placed the dosa plate on the parapet. Acrow was watching me and it took off the dosa in its beak. I felt ashamed, but had to tell uncle about it He only smiled.

MUSHROOM

MUSHROOM HABIT We in India ignore this important ‘vegetable’ , rich in protein and nutrients and almost free from starch .It is easy to grow at home. Dark basement is ideal and wooden trays, six inch deep and two feet square, can be used to grow mushrooms. The agricultural department will provide ‘seeds’. Special kits and guidance can be had from the department. Soups and dry dishes can be made, similar to those normally made at home, using cook books. Try it.

SUPREME COURT

UNDEMOCRATIC DECISION OF THE SUPREME COURT Freedom of expression is guaranteed by our Constitution. Recent judgment of the Supreme Court , diluting this right , in respect of popular icons , is most undemocratic and has been condemned by writers and intellectuals. Even bhagvan Ram has been castigated, by critics for his unjust act in abandoning his wife, who was pregnant, in the forest, without caring for her life even. But, according to the judgment , even Gandhi cannot be denigrated , because he is an icon! A cartoon may hurt the sentiments of some people; so it is to be banned. Rani Laksmibai of Jhansi was a fast friend of the British raj. She fell out with the rulers, only because she was not allowed to adopt a prince. If I doubt her patriotism, I will not be spared. This amounts to censorship. Galileo was imprisoned for saying that the earth is a globe. Socrates was sentenced to death, for advising his disciples not to accept anything without questioning. Hinduism tolerated even those, who insisted that there is no God. What happened to the Judge of the Supreme Court? There should be wide debate on this judgment.

INDIA CHINA BHAI BHAI

INDIA-CHINA BHAI BHAI Prime Minister Modi has taken a bold step in visiting China. They have already signed agreements worth sixty five crore rupees investment by china in Indian Railways, infrastructure etc. It is also decided that disputes between the two countries will not be allowed to come in the way of friendship between the neighbours . This is a bold step, which the old Congress Government will never have dared to venture. It is a sign of brave Statesman ship. Times have changed ;the new world is concerned about commerce. There is no possibility of war and conquest now. China is the greatest economic power in the world. With India, we account for majority of world population and hence greatest purchasing power. We have what is called “Public Sector “ investments , which is a cushion against economic depression , still threatening the world. I congratulate Modi.

STORY-DAUGHTER

DAUGHTER As the only daughter of wealthy business man , I was much pampered by my father. After graduation , I did not know what to do. I hated business. My friends and I used to spend time , in restaurants and cinema halls , avoiding boys , who are interested only in sex and wine. At that time , a Madrasi was appointed as accountant in our company. He is small and very gentle , always smiling . My efforts to befriend him failed , as he is always busy in his work. One Sunday, I invited him to have dinner in a restaurant. Then I learned that he is from Kerala. He said it is actually Keralam and Trichur is his town. I said I am eager to see that area and extracted a promise to take me there, when he went home the next time. My friends asked me whether I am in love. I laughed:”He is like an innocent boy , may be younger than me.” It is difficult to get leave for Sanku (Sankaran is the full name) except in exceptional circumstances. To attend his sister’s marriage, he was allowed one weeks’ absence and I told father that I too will accompany him. To save time, we went by plane. It was nice to see Keralam . We got down at Nedumbassery and went by road to Trichur. All the villages are continuous , and looks like a forest. His home stands on the edge of a rice field . Both his mother and sister talks broken English but do not know Hindi at all. The marriage was at Guruvayoor , the famous temple town and took only a few minutes . The couple garlanded each other , that is all. The dinner was in a hotel. I took video of the proceedings and the scenery, almost everywhere we went, as the whole country is a picturesque scene. “Sanku, it is a pity you have to work in Bombay. Can’t you get a job here?” He smiled. I have never heard him talk. “Yes, Sir or Yes, Madam”-that is all he ever said. “Do not call me Madam , I am Meenakshy. Call me Meenu.” He smiled . I began helping father in his business. From eight in the morning till ten in the night , we three were working hard. Fther increased Sanku’s salary to fifty thousand . In addition to keeping the Accounts and preparing balance sheet for auditors to check , he found ways to save Income Tax . So his salary was less than what he deserved. For my work , he gave me ten thousand. I learned the ins and outs of the company and father was pleased. We did not realize the passage of time. I became thirty and felt that I should marry. Sanku never opened his heart. On Sundays we used to go out. Once my friend Susheela saw us and called out. Sanku remained there but I went to her. “Have you not been married ?” She asked . I told my difficulty. “You are a fool. Try him in the bed room. Remove your cloths. Any Vishwamithr will fall to your charms.” I tried that also. But he remained calm. I removed his underwear ; the thing remained small and sluggish. I went to a Doctor alone. He wanted to see Sanku also. Then he gave some advice and medicines and things to eat to increase semen. After about one year , I became pregnant . I told father I wanted to marry Sanku.

TO GURUVAYOOR

MAY 15TH WAS THE FIRST OF EDAVAM As usual, I went to Guruvayoor and had Darshan by ten in the morning. Everything went off smoothly , but I did not have the free meal; so I returned by one thirty noon. Luckily there was no long que. Of course, I got special permission of the Manager and did not have to climb the steps. From Trichur the bus fare is only twenty one rupees. Praise be to Lord Guruvayoorappan

IS ATTACK ON GUEST HOUSE

ATTACK ON GUEST HOUSE IN AFGHANISTAN Last night IS terrorists attacked a guest house in Kabul and killed several inmates, including four Indians. They killed the guard and entered the premises . They entered each room and went on a killing spree. IS claims it was preplanned. Why there is no proper security and screening of entrants is a mystery.

SNAPS FRoM MY LIFE-gift

SNAPS FROM MY LIFE-missed again My niece Jaya lives at Tirur near Trichur. Her husband retired from Bank of India voluntarily. Today again I went to Tirur, but failed to locate the house. I went from house to house, near the bus top and sold several books . In one house, the lady recognized me and bought one book. Then she asked timidly:” I like your books; may I give a gift?” I thought it will hurt her feelings if I refuse. So I said yes; she gave me a hundred rupee note. I thanked her . She smiled happily.

WOMEN AND BALDNESS

WOMEN DO NOT HAVE BALDNESS Most men do become bald after thirty; some early, some much later. Have you seen a bald woman, even at the age of ninety? There are male and female hormones in both sexes. It is because of these hormones that men get body hair and women develop breasts. These female hormones probably prevent baldness in women. It is for researchers to examine this point. It is a common observation that hairy men lose much hair , especially in the legs . Teeth and hair fall in old age. We become like children!

WIFE

MY WIFE RETURNED FROM DELHI AFTER FORTY DAYS REST inDelhi, Radha came back. Today they brought Prakshanth and Vaikha home and we are all together again. My daughter Sudha and her husband are also here , to attend a marriage. So my hear is singing. It is sad that the earthquake visited Nepal again, causing tremors in Bihar and Bengal. Continuously it is raining every evening; the reservoirs are full.

INDIAN NATIONAL CONGRESS

INDIAN NATIONAL CONGRESS-IS IT AN ECLIPSE? It is easy to write off the oldest national party, The Indian National Congress, after the humiliating defeat it suffered in the last general elections. Memory is short. When the Janta Party under the leadership of Morarji Desai , no one imagined that INC will ever come back. Indira Gandhi was hounted and exposed by the Shaw Commission; but she made a come back in Chikamangalur . Why? Let us examine some aspects of this party. It is the only party with all India presence. All other parties are regional and controlled by a single dictator, like the Shivsena, ADMK, Thrinamool Congress etc. They have no economic programme. Even the BJP follows the Congress policy. INC has a central stand, neither left nor right. When the eupphorea over Modi wave ebbs away, People will come back to INC. Its greatest flaw is dictatorship of the family. Already, anti-Nehru movement is picking up momentum in different regions. Rahul blesses this trend. The belief that it was corruption that killed the INC may be naïve. Indians are used to corruption from time immemorial. Is Jayalalitha not corrupt? We all know that bureaucrats , business class and ministers form a cartel which decides. Without money, the machinery will not move. Ordinary people want control over prices . During emergency under Indira Gandhi, prices came down. For the first time, DA of Central Government employees came down. Wait and watch ; keep the fingers crossed.

TRIBAL PEOPLE

MALIGNING VOLUNTEERS WORKING FOR THE TRIBAL PEOPLE The Communist Party of India has officially come forward , to defend the cause of those workers , who are trying to improve the conditions of forest people who are expelled from their own land, by Multinational companies. The Party has demanded that those who are caught as Naxakites, must be treated as political prisoners. The fight against Naxalites must be political and not military

SNAPS FROM MY LIFE-toilet

SNAPS FROM MY LIFE-toilet Today in the morning at seven, I was going to our Sastha temple. I saw K.K. Raman coming towards my home. “Anything urgent?” I asked. “I want to go to the toilet” “Good! At least, there is one fellow, who is in need of our new toilet, which is outside the main building

SECOND CLASS WAITING ROOM

SECOND CLASS WAITING ROOM At Trichur Railway Station, I went to the urinal . The fellow in charge took Rs. Two. I was under the impression that it is free. I saw the Manager, who told me it is free. Only for latrine the charge is Rs. Five . I came back and demanded my money back.. Two rupees is nothing, but he should not cheat the passenger.

STORY-MARRIED TWICE

Marry “Mother, I want to marry.” “What nonsense? You are just a boy. Wait till your sister is married off.” “She is only fifteen. I cannot wait any more. I have a good job. I am tired of cooking food every day. Sometimes I am late ; my boss is strict about punctuality. I have been warned.” One day, I was standing in the line for a darshan of God. A small boy , carried by its mother standing close to me, caught my hand . When I turned, it kissed my hand and smiled gracefully. “Do not disturb he gentleman ,” scolded the mother. I turned to her. She is quite young and graceful, though a bit dark. We smiled at each other. Once the prayers were over, I followed her automatically and we began talking:”Are you alone? Where is your husband?” She suggested going to a restaurant. I too was hungry. There we ordered masal dosa and milk for the boy, who insisted on sitting in my lap. Instead of replying to my queries, she asked:”Where are you staying? Do you come here odften?” “I stay near the Eastern Gopuram as I am working in the Bank. Our home is near Vadakancherry. And You?” She hesitated for some reason. I gave Guruvayoorappan locket to the boy. He began crying when she departed. Somehow I could not forget the lady, but I did not even know her name. Another day she came to the Bank , to withdraw money. Before departure, she told me:”Give me your address and phone number. I like to meet you on a Sunday.” I was overjoyed . Her name is Deepthy. I began waiting impatiently on Sunday. I tried to tidy up the room to make an impression on her. I hoped her husband will not come. Why? She came in an auto. It was about eleven. Her child was not with her. “Are you alone? Where is your wife?” “My mother says I am too young to marry.” She smiled and went straight to the kitchen. “Show me where you have kept the things I shall make tea and then food.” All the while, she worked and I listened to her talk. She married the wrong person, according to her. He is cruel and insensitive. “I suffered for the sake of our child. Now it is all over, thank God. I divorced him.” I could not believe my ears. In the evening we went to a movie; then went to her home. It seems she had told about me. Her mother, very fair and handsome, welcomed me as a friend. It was a small flat . In the night, I slept in her bed room and she with her mother. The boy insisted on sleeping with me. The next morning she made my lunch and packed it in plantain leaf. She phoned:”How is the food?” “It is sweeter as you have made it. Am I lucky to have it every day?” “Why not ? Stay with us .” Thus began our life together. Instinctively, I did not speak a word to my mother. On a Sunday, when I went home, father showed me an anonymous letter, about my relations with Deepthy. I guessed that it must be the work of her ex-husband. “I am staying, as paying guest, with that family. I pay thousand rupees to them . Her husband has left her . Is it wrong?” “No ; we have fixed up your marriage with this girl.” He showed a photo , not bad to look at. “Let me see her.”So we went there the next Sunday. They are ready to give good dowry. It is a big family . She is the fifth child. We did not commit and I came back to Deepthy. I told her the developments in my case . I showed the letter also. Her first reaction was:”It seems to be a good proposal. “You do not love me?” “I am older than you. Your infatuation will evaporate in due course. We will love each other, as now. Think coolly.” As my consent was not received, the marriage proposal brought by my father was ignored by the girl’s party and her marriage took place, my father informed me. I told Deepthy and she did not say anything. I got perturbed:”Tell me, do you really love me, as I love you? Did Radha not love Krishna, much below in age? Love is inexplicable. “ I pulled her into my lap and took her lower lip in my mouth and sucked the honey. She melted like butter and kissed all over my face and body… After registering our marriage, we sent the papers to my father.

TODAY IS MOTHERS DAY

TODAY IS MOTHERS’ DAY The second Sunday of May is observed as MOTHRS DAY’ This began in 1905 in America. I am surprised that the print media have ignored this. We owe our life to mother. How patient she is ! For nine months she alone can look after us. In India, there is Devi worship. It is real love of mother, who is personified as a Goddess

STORY-DANCE

DANCE We had gone to Guruvayoor temple . My parents stood in the que , patiently waiting for darshan. I had no patience. I sat in the auditorium, where a beautiful girl was performing. I could not take my eyes off her supple , slim body slithering like a snake’s. I told my friend to buy a heavy gold necklace and bring to me immediately. He could not understand why, but I told him to hurry. As soon as the dance program was over, I went to the platform and called the girl. I put the ornament in her neck and told her:”Excellent! Please accept my gift. I gave her my card and whispered in her ear :”Please reply” She felt dazed , but I felt she was happy. I told my friend:”Find out the address of the girl.” On our return, I told my mother:”I have found a daughter-in-law for you.” I had no patience. My friend was unable to contact the party, as they left immediately afterwards. After about one week, her father called me on phone:”Are you Dasan?” “Yes. “ “You had given your card to my daughter; what is your intention?” “Thank you Sir. I liked the dance and the girl. I am a graduate and we have a big plantation in Munnar. If you will kindly consider my case, I shall be very lucky. Could you kindly give me your address?” I noted down the address. “Can I talk to your father?” “Oh, no. He is a big businessman. I am his only son . But I have told mother and we can come there when you like. I just like to know the girl’s mind. For marriage we can wait. Can I speak to her?” “Come here next week; then you can ask her directly.” He hung up. I sent Ganeshan, my personal man. He met the girl secretly and secured her photo . He talked to her . She was glad to meet my emissary. They talked for a long time on the road and gathered her bio-data. Her name is Saraswathy, passed tenth and is only eighteen yeas old. The family is just above poverty line. Her father is working in khadi mill. The house is pretty old . All this was told to my mother also . She was satisfied and one day we went there. After deciding things , father was told about it. He insisted that we must wait for one year. For me it seemed like eternity . I told father that she may be appointed in our estate , so that she can help her father . This was agreed. I got an anonymous letter. I showed it to Saraswathy (Saru for short). It was written by her relative , who wanted to marry her .”Do not believe it, Das. He has no education . I do not like him.” I gave her a kiss of assurance . Her smile is more than a gift for me. I suggested that she can give dance call on Sundays, so that she may earn some extra income. Her classes became popular. She danced occasionally, to entertain our business guests. All congratulated me for netting this genius. I need not narrate our marriage. Many businessmen liked to have alliance with us and some showed their contempt for Saru’s family. I consoled her. Happy years fly away. We had three children, two girls and then a boy. He was all right but failed to respond when we made sounds. Doctors confirmed his inability to hear. Without hearing, he cannot pronounce words. It broke our hearts. I consoled Saru:”Medicine is progressing; do not despair. We can have one more issue.” As the boy became four, I bought electronic toys to entertain him and other children. I found the boy very alert and equal to others in intelligence. I advertised in newspapers for a home tutor, to teach a deaf-mute child, preferring an English knowing person, because I wanted to teach him computer work. A lady from Scotland offered her services. She was a war widow and took charge of the boy, In another ten years, e passed tenth examination with first class marks. I employed him in our business and taught him data entry etc. I gave him regular salary, which he deposited in his bank account. Saru was happy, but now worried about his marriage. “Oh dear, he will find his mate ,as I found you.” In due course, I became one of the Directors of the Company. My son Rahul was promoted as a Manager. He decided to make a special recruitment of Deaf-mute youth in computer section and such other categories like watchmen, where eyes are more important than ears. After interviewing a number of candidates, ten girls and two boys were selected. He asked us to select one girl for him. Saru said I am better in selecting the girl.

DOWN SLIDE IN SENSEX

DOWN SLIDE IN SENSEX Steep fall in sensex figures continues for the second day. When Modi became Prime Minister, sensex went up, went up in anticipation of favourable climate for investment. This did not happen. The Modi show ‘Make in India’, for which a lot of money was spent by the Government , failed to attract investors, because of international factors. The economic depression is continuing. India has experienced low growth during this year , when Modi took the reins. What has he achieved? Rape of teenagers, attack on Christian Churches, utter failure in Kashmir, suicide by farmers et. are the high lights of his misrule. Swiss money is only a dream. Modi wave has disappeared.

GOLD MEDALIST IN GAMES COMMITTED SUICIDE

GOLD MEDALIST IN GAMES COMMITTED SUICIDE In a school for athletics, some teenage girls tried to commit suicide, by eating poisonous fruits. One among them was a gold winner in Olympics. The relatives of the girls allege harassment by the authorities. Some note has been recovered. One died. The matter has been taken up seriously by the Sports Authority of India The school, SAi centre, happens to be at Alapuzha in Keralm The National Human Rrights Commission has taken up the case.

SNAPS FROM MY LIFE-rice cooked

SNAPS FROM MY LIFE-rice cooked I wanted to cook rice before going out. To save time, I put ice and water in a steel vessel and lighted the gas. I then, went to the temple and came back in about twenty minutes. On reaching home, I noticed horrible smell of burnt rice and smoke coming from the kitchen. The whole water in the vessel evaporated and the rice got brown and black at the bottom. The whole thing became like a cake, hard to break. Had I reduced the flame to the minimum, the tragedy could be averted. I cooked rice again.

SALMAN KHAN IN JAIL

SUPER STAR SALMAN KHAN BEHIND THE BARS It happened a number of years ago. Super Star Salman Khan killed someone, sleeping in the foot path of the road in Bombay. The case went on for years; now the Court has found him guilty and sentenced him for imprisonment. The driver’s testimony that Alman was at the wheels, became the crucial evidence. Khalnayak Sanjay Dutt is already in jail. Of course all film goers will be sorry, but Law is Blind

STORY-NO MARRIAGE

NO MARRIAGE I had gone to the temple which is only a few minutes’ walk from home. So I did not lock the house and isturb my elderly parents. When I returned, I saw a bearded man with long hair , sitting comfortably in a chair in the portico. I became anxious, who is this stranger ? When I came very near, I shouted with joy:”Velu! “ I could not control my emotion. I hid my face in his lap and wept shamelessly. He lifted my face. He kissed way my tears. I asked:”Why this dress ? Where were you all these years?” “Renu, I remember a girl in jeans; how you changed into traditional Malayalee mundu and blouse?” “Tell me , are you married?” “No. I travelled throughout India. I found this costume useful. People respect it. As I recite Samskrutham stanzas. People pour money into the towel, spread in front of me. They invite me for dinner. I am a Brahmachar.” “A woman can love only once. I knew you will come one day. For some years I worked in Berlin. When I heard that father is ill, I came back to our village.” Mother was watching our conversation. She asked:”What about your brothers?” “They are all married and have children. One is a school teacher ,another a vakil and the third a politician. I wanted to see the world.” Mother went in to prepare breakfast. Velu continued:”I became the disciple of Sreenarayana Guru. He advised me to tour North India and learn about Budha. Budha is my Guru.” “Promise me not to run away again.” Mother called us inside. Hot puttu and fried papad was served.”mother, it is a long time since I tasted puttu. Many thanks.” “Velu, this is your home . Stay here all your life. It will be a blessing for Renu.” I said:”Remove this sanyasi dress; cut your hair short . I will take you to a barber.” He obeyed. We went to see our mutual friends in the college. All had only one question-when are you getting married? We discussed it many times. I insisted:”Sex is no sin. Till now we postponed marriage for the same reason. We did not like to be married to another guy.” “I want some work or at least a hobby. I am interested in painting. I have learned the preliminaries.” So he joined a club and began drawing . It was my photo , when I was only twelve years old. It became a hit and several ladies approached me , offering good remuneration. Thus our life began as married couple , without formal ceremony. He insisted:”Marriage agreement is for security of the woman, so they will get alimony in case of divorce. Free union is better than forced sex.”

DEVOTION

DEVOTION Occasionally, a woman would come to pray at the Sastha temple here. Her legs are just two small appendages and she would crawl on her haunches. I admire her devotion to our Lord. I am told that she is a rich lady with car etc. She owns an orchard and rice fields in Chappakayal. In our temple premises, there is the temple of Cherukunnilamma; the original temple is at Kannur. I do not think there is another temple of this deity in this region. People used to do Bhagawathseva here. For Sastha, the main item is ada nivedyam. Except at Arattupuzha, this specialty is not available in any other temple.

STORY-ANAMIKA

ANAMIKA I was seeing my childhood friend after a gap of several years. Oh, Anu! Where were you all these years? You have become fat and more handsome. I think the desert air suits you.” Before I could respond , a thin short girl came and seeing me , was about to withdraw, when Das said:”Do not go ; this is my cousin, who has come to India after a long time.” “I shall come later. I want ink bottle.” She took away the bottle from my cupboard and went away .Who is this girl?” “Why? Do you like her?” “I think she is a sweet thing. Do not mind marrying her.” “It will be an act of kindness on your part. She has passed M.Sc. and wants to go for Doctorate . But her poor parents want her to work, as they are already in debt. They have taken loan from me and also from the bank.” Devi returned after an hour . “May I make tea?” ”Thanks ; my wife has gone to the market and may meet her friends as it is Sunday” The girl brought dosa and tea . I asked her to sit with us. “Let me ask you whether you are ready to marry this gentleman , who is of my age. Do not worry about formalities . You are sufficiently mature to take your own decision. You may ask him questions.” What were you doing all these years? Are you employed?” “I am now without a job. I first worked in Thaluk office , then went to the gulf to join Saudi Airlines. I earned enough and decided to return, as there is no life there.“ She looked into my eyes for several minutes and I felt uncomfortable. “Take your own time,” Anu said. “I shall be his wife, on two conditions: he should repay all my loans and send monthly income for sustenance of my parents.“ I agreed and our marriage took place shortly. I need not mention that marriage expenses were met my me.. Thevi’s father said:”You are an angel.” For honey moon we went to Singapore. Those were fabulous days and She joined Calicut University after our return. “Let us not have children, till my studies are completed.” So she inserted something inside, to prevent pregnancy. We were staying in the hostel. I used to cook food and roam about when free. As her Professor was a frequent visitor , I began to get jealous. As there is no fear of children there is nothing to restrict their freedom. I avoided meeting people. Anyway , after she got the degree , I took her to the Doctor and got the obstruction removed. Soon she became a mother , giving me a sweet girl. I said:”Let her choose her name ,when she is mature; we will call her Anamika (no name)”. Her parents came to look after their grandchild. I became an outsider and began staying with my elder brother. Sister-in-law became more friendly. She did not like Devi. She used to say that Devi is haughty. When Anamika became two years old , I brought her to my brother’s house ,which was common property of us four brothers. One was working in the Registrar’s Office another was a bee-keeper , who was a dedicated worker who made plenty of money by his hobby. Both are unmarried. Eldest brother has two girls going to school. They welcomed Anamika. The three became fast friends . Brother’s children learned vocal music and Anamika learned ‘thabala’. I was mostly on tour and grew a beard. I used to write letters to my daughter describing my experiences and also I began writing poetry , some hidden talent in me. My daughter sent it to a weekly which published it. Thus , though there was no formal divorce, we were practically separated. I arranged Anamika’s marriage. She loved a boy who was a singer and deliberately ignored my wife. I received a notice from her layer for divorce and I agreed. One day my friend came with Devi. After preliminaries, he said:”Anuj , it is not fair on your part , to accept separation. There are bound to be differences in any marriage. These have to be sorted out . Ours was love marriage; still, we used to quarrel. For Devi, Anamika is the only source of joy. Why did you not inform about her marriage? That was the last straw that broke her heart. Do you think she does not live you? She is ready to withdraw the notice. I know her from her childhood. She is a workaholic. By the way, where is Anamika? She was attending our discussion from behind the doors. She came out and embraced her mother. I too felt the pangs of love:”I am ready for reconciliation. Let us have a new beginning.” Devi came and touched my feet.

DERAILMENT IN KONKAN RAILWAY