tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131075072024-03-08T01:04:27.752+03:00Granger GabA small dose of my life's loves -
Cricket,Music,Dance,Mumma-Papa, MDH, Friends, Family...
All what make me who I'm todayMinalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08556930930046840091noreply@blogger.comBlogger303125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13107507.post-10148120579374522010-10-10T20:38:00.001+03:002010-10-10T20:38:12.119+03:00Moving…<p>Silence on this blog was owing to me being busy doing up my new abode.</p> <p>Update your RSS Feeds/Google Reader Feeds and hop over to my new home – <a href="http://www.grangergab.com">www.grangergab.com</a></p> Minalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08556930930046840091noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13107507.post-59070498140886886932010-09-19T22:11:00.001+03:002010-09-19T22:11:23.338+03:00Swiss Chronicles –Zermatt Matterhorn<p align="justify">Did you ladies have doll houses when you were young? The ones which had all the tiny rooms with miniature furnishings and people inside. My mother would set up my corner during Diwali. The dolls all decked up and arranged, all the toys- cars, train and buses around and then in the centre the little doll-house – flowers adorning its porch and strings of mini bulb-light on the outside walls.</p> <p align="justify">When I entered Zermatt – I was reminded of my little doll house and that corner in my house. The mini-roads, the wooden houses not more than 3-4 storied-high, colourful flowers hanging out of each balcony,a small stream flowing in between, cycles zooming past, mini-buses, small electric cars and cabs. </p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJZgFny5JOI/AAAAAAAABWU/SRMvCRjNURY/s1600-h/DSC02280%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02280" border="0" alt="DSC02280" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJZgGUxIylI/AAAAAAAABWY/0P4wV8hZm1g/DSC02280_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="207" height="159" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJZgHXQzcrI/AAAAAAAABWc/RwDaVUXXByc/s1600-h/DSC02285%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02285" border="0" alt="DSC02285" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJZgH8DkGWI/AAAAAAAABWg/SHgO1THoigs/DSC02285_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="198" height="152" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJZgIgTaekI/AAAAAAAABWk/q5-58nI6LDE/s1600-h/DSC02286%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02286" border="0" alt="DSC02286" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJZgJlGsmeI/AAAAAAAABWo/sOkEyC4jtIs/DSC02286_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="211" height="169" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJZgK6TsnaI/AAAAAAAABWs/PJhu7-BGboU/s1600-h/DSC02287%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02287" border="0" alt="DSC02287" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJZgLXq1xLI/AAAAAAAABWw/sc73Khk7F2k/DSC02287_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="160" /></a> </p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJZgMX8mIPI/AAAAAAAABW0/fcew0mWWTHw/s1600-h/DSC02217%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02217" border="0" alt="DSC02217" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJZgM8FQAPI/AAAAAAAABW4/JQEHIBvs1xc/DSC02217_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="203" height="156" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJZgN8v2CSI/AAAAAAAABW8/pGScMEXZw9Y/s1600-h/DSC02218%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02218" border="0" alt="DSC02218" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJZgOu3wi8I/AAAAAAAABXA/Ov8Qds0oCEw/DSC02218_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="159" /></a> </p> <p align="justify">Zermatt is a car-free zone. It only has electric buses and electric cars. They look like toys! The bus can seat about 10-12 people but at one time was holding 20 odd people with 3 huge dogs. The biggest of those dogs was right near my seat and kept sniffing at my feet, turning around and then hitting my feet with his huge tail! The freaking experiences on this trip looked like they would never end. </p> <p align="justify">I’m not an animal person and the mere site of that huge dog scared me so bad – that not once did I turn my head towards the huge creature! The breed was <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bernese_Mountain_Dog">this one</a> and trust me it looked double the size shown in the picture. I must confess though that the breeds of dogs I saw in Zermatt made me fall in love with them. They all looked so royal and magnificent.</p> <p align="justify">Zermatt is a small village in the Swiss Alps and is famous for one of the highest peaks in the Alps – <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matterhorn">The Matterhorn</a>.</p> <p align="justify">Unfortunately it was raining the days we were in Zermatt and we could not get to the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Klein_Matterhorn">Klein Matterhorn</a>. It is the highest peak in the Alps that can be reached by the cable-ways. There is no way to reach the real Matterhorn and cable ways are constructed till the smaller peak known as Klein Matterhorn.</p> <p align="justify">We went mid-way to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schwarzsee_(Zermatt)">Schwarzsee Paradise</a> and were witness to one of the most beautiful displays of nature. The snowy peaks, the clouds afloat, the green mountains, rains, bright sun and a rainbow! A rainbow that lasted 20 odd minutes! Blessed!</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJZgPkm7wkI/AAAAAAAABXE/maE9JfJbmYA/s1600-h/DSC02248%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02248" border="0" alt="DSC02248" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJZgQQPZBII/AAAAAAAABXI/Y-nUnLv6zZc/DSC02248_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="428" height="208" /></a> </p> <p align="justify">The family inn we lived in was at the foot of the Matterhorn. When the sun came out in the evening, we finally witnessed the woman in white:-)</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJZgRIRLo_I/AAAAAAAABXM/UM63X-F6PT4/s1600-h/DSC02292%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02292" border="0" alt="DSC02292" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJZgRwh1QKI/AAAAAAAABXQ/TzZsMJ--X_g/DSC02292_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="211" height="164" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJZgSpEu8bI/AAAAAAAABXU/8jDndikyAtg/s1600-h/DSC02293%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02293" border="0" alt="DSC02293" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJZgTqDmQPI/AAAAAAAABXY/2OcWkJYG8gI/DSC02293_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="199" height="153" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJZgUfIRZVI/AAAAAAAABXc/POZkl3oflXU/s1600-h/DSC02294%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02294" border="0" alt="DSC02294" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJZgVJQJ-hI/AAAAAAAABXg/MfNOliknsI4/DSC02294_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="203" height="162" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJZgV_rN2-I/AAAAAAAABXk/439FM2KySHw/s1600-h/DSC02295%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02295" border="0" alt="DSC02295" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJZgWgidb4I/AAAAAAAABXo/AOTMFm2YUgo/DSC02295_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="196" height="158" /></a></p> Minalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08556930930046840091noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13107507.post-89020538657732781642010-09-16T20:06:00.001+03:002010-09-16T20:06:44.974+03:00European Oddities<p align="justify">Learnt to speak slowly when communicating with the local Deutsch speaking people! I’m too fast and they are too slow:-(</p> <p align="justify">I’m all for conserving water but seriously no water jets in toilets? You think paper is more clean over water and that is conserving natural resource? BAH!</p> <p align="justify">Why do they serve bland Indian food in our 5-star restaurants citing  that westerners can’t handle spicy food. We went to 4 Indian food joints on our trip and all served nice spicy food. It was not made specially for us – the hotel owners told us that the local people loved it that way!</p> <p align="justify">The Europeans enjoy our Indian Thalis not just the butter chicken and naan!</p> <p align="justify">By default the first communication happens in their mother tongue and then they switch to English seeing your blank face. <em>(We in our country first speak English and are not even well-versed with our mother tongues. Guilty party and makes me feel ashamed!)</em></p> <p align="justify">Beer and alcohol is had at all times of the day at all places – markets, railway stations, underground shops,everywhere! I did not see any drunk, rowdy, misbehaviour on my entire trip – why do we in India and Middle East make a big deal about alcohol!</p> <p align="justify">Europe is to be seen by road or railway travel – only then can you experience the ethereal beauty of this place.</p> <p align="justify">Anyone will go out of their way to guide a tourist – irrespective of the country you are in or the nationality you possess. </p> <p align="justify">Saw a lot of elderly/old people on our travels – they are amazingly independent, still go on treks with their walking sticks, love to talk and have a terrific zest for life! <em>(Why do we make a big deal about expecting our kids to be with us all the time?)</em></p> <p align="justify">For the first time on our journey, saw beggars as those in India in Vienna. </p> <p align="justify">My sis in UK often jokes that in London we are still living in the 1800s! What she says is true – the cities, the houses look as if they have been preserved for ages. That is where lies the beauty of this place I think – preserving tradition. <em>(Don’t you get a lovely feeling when you walk along the Fort Area in Mumbai – I wish the entire city was as beautiful – there is a different charm to it.)</em></p> <p align="justify">Breakfast is pretty lousy unless you enjoy cold cuts! Most times I struggled with bread and butter alone! But awesome breads, even better ice-cream and lovely coffees!<em>(A European couple remarked to me that Indian breakfast was the best – swelled with pride)</em></p> <p align="justify">Did not adapt to the famous “fondue”, simply did not – the smell prevented me from trying it:-( But again I’m not great at experimenting so don’t get biased by my opinion.</p> <p align="justify">Went on an art tour in Austria! I did not know the palace only stocked art paintings. Most kids in school are petrified of Maths, for me it was drawing and art. I could never understand it – even then, even now! </p> <p align="justify">I’ve a fascination for public transports so I’m now a natural fan of entire Europe. Amazing systems – trains, trams, buses. Who needs a taxi! Enjoyed the tram rides the most.<em> (Why did they shut those down back in Mumbai:-()</em></p> <p align="justify">Walk and cycle is the motto of every place we visited. Never realised walking could be this fun!</p> <p align="justify">Every city you visit has an old town, a famous shopping street<em> (at most times named Bahnhofstrasse)</em>, a lake or river, a boat cruise, a walking tour, baroque and gothic architecture, a fortification wall, a hill, a famous bridge and a famous church.</p> <p align="justify">Realised that population is the only reason the places are clean and systematic. <em>(Admire India even more for dealing with the unmanageable population and still surviving, I’m sure these countries would have a terrible time if they had the kind of population that we do!)</em></p> <p align="justify">The place makes you fall in love and you keep wanting to get back. I’ll be back again – to visit the remaining famous places.</p> <p align="justify"><em>P.S: The chronicle series for the remaining places will continue! Vacation has ended so decided to put up this post first!</em></p> Minalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08556930930046840091noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13107507.post-25957517098162800732010-09-15T21:33:00.001+03:002010-09-15T21:33:35.591+03:00Swiss Chronicles : Mt. Pilatus<p align="justify">The way we planned our Swisstrip – it was more of a peak scaling trip for us with 4 peaks on the radar, and therefore Pilatus could not be missed.</p> <p align="justify">Now what was the novelty in Mt. Pilatus when we had already visited Mt.Titlis? An alps peak again, snow probably and aerial cableway; well there was one novelty – the Cog Wheel Train ride up the mountains from  Alpanchstad to Pilatus Klum on a slope of gradient average 28%!</p> <p align="justify">The little red toy train looks cute from afar – only when you sit inside do you realise you are on ride of a lifetime! As it climbs up the mountain on narrow rail track, steep valley on the side, high mountain range on the other, turning across angles, the sights below diminishing, it leaves you in awe of the people who invented and devised this little beauty.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJEQBOXyZAI/AAAAAAAABSk/vHBNs2W8e-U/s1600-h/DSC021103.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02110" border="0" alt="DSC02110" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJEQBXWt3OI/AAAAAAAABSo/53GZ2zy0kLg/DSC02110_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="203" height="156" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJEQCVWVblI/AAAAAAAABSs/1qZpMiNStLA/s1600-h/DSC021113.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02111" border="0" alt="DSC02111" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJEQHY0gQlI/AAAAAAAABSw/t_EEmwNzYbY/DSC02111_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="208" height="159" /></a> </p> <p align="justify">    <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJEQHzCwUGI/AAAAAAAABS0/UZYPd6P63BA/s1600-h/DSC021135.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02113" border="0" alt="DSC02113" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJEQJTPzebI/AAAAAAAABS4/izpi4xVPssg/DSC02113_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="189" height="151" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJEQb55vRrI/AAAAAAAABS8/yOcfWqTKFIY/s1600-h/DSC021145.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02114" border="0" alt="DSC02114" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJEQcTBh5bI/AAAAAAAABTA/4XzesK-P59w/DSC02114_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="194" height="153" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJEQdNASPsI/AAAAAAAABTE/KxLpOZQyGVE/s1600-h/DSC021155.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02115" border="0" alt="DSC02115" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJEQdtan5-I/AAAAAAAABTI/r6mKUYbKGRo/DSC02115_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="211" height="167" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJEQePI8UmI/AAAAAAAABTM/tQq4a_-FaVI/s1600-h/DSC021167.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02116" border="0" alt="DSC02116" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJEQe4UWE5I/AAAAAAAABTQ/glCKWV5n-Rs/DSC02116_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="193" height="156" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJEQfpMSppI/AAAAAAAABTU/QWIpo7gdYBk/s1600-h/DSC021175.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02117" border="0" alt="DSC02117" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJEQhGYh9oI/AAAAAAAABTY/sKjABBM6DtQ/DSC02117_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="205" height="162" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJEQh4Fx_kI/AAAAAAAABTc/yzCTKEqMNQw/s1600-h/DSC021185.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02118" border="0" alt="DSC02118" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJEQ6ub69qI/AAAAAAAABTg/nXusWF6wRZE/DSC02118_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="199" height="157" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJEQ7SqPEgI/AAAAAAAABTk/DaQHfMV1AB0/s1600-h/DSC021195.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02119" border="0" alt="DSC02119" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJEQ8qsSykI/AAAAAAAABTo/l84IsAsOPWs/DSC02119_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="203" height="160" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJEQ9E5b1WI/AAAAAAAABTs/RfEMJmVXCYk/s1600-h/DSC021243.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02124" border="0" alt="DSC02124" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJEQ9qtf5BI/AAAAAAAABTw/lU6XP_oQAjI/DSC02124_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="205" height="157" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJEQ-t37CpI/AAAAAAAABT0/xsn3uBd0xBA/s1600-h/DSC021283.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02128" border="0" alt="DSC02128" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJEQ_KtuGPI/AAAAAAAABT4/0pw5QhVk5oE/DSC02128_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="216" height="166" /></a> </p> <p align="justify">The train takes you right to the top. Unfortunately, no snow at the top but the view as magnificent as that from Titlis. Strong wind blowing and a hot cup of coffee atop the mountain -the perfect way to begin your day.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJEREBNO-lI/AAAAAAAABT8/6oBsjmGtwHE/s1600-h/DSC021298.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02129" border="0" alt="DSC02129" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJEREnIgU3I/AAAAAAAABUA/Zww73A9CQoM/DSC02129_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="203" height="167" /></a>  <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERFfeAfvI/AAAAAAAABUE/hwW7JF_ZGBo/s1600-h/DSC021319.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02131" border="0" alt="DSC02131" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERF6nLpkI/AAAAAAAABUI/BPNQxIJ7y8k/DSC02131_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="198" height="165" /></a>  <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERGev2QkI/AAAAAAAABUM/REoeNr7v09Y/s1600-h/DSC021339.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02133" border="0" alt="DSC02133" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERGp-AdQI/AAAAAAAABUQ/NnRU6Mx_jsc/DSC02133_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="194" height="163" /></a>   <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERHgc6pMI/AAAAAAAABUU/KhQmYSFSTuA/s1600-h/DSC021366.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02136" border="0" alt="DSC02136" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERIiR-z9I/AAAAAAAABUY/TFLhrMyqWng/DSC02136_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="199" height="160" /></a>  <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERJehxFnI/AAAAAAAABUc/qNGnzjWh7Xg/s1600-h/DSC021383.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02138" border="0" alt="DSC02138" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERJ-WmikI/AAAAAAAABUg/1WZ4yQrugNM/DSC02138_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="206" height="158" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERKZPLdDI/AAAAAAAABUk/7b34fPWP-ps/s1600-h/DSC021393.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02139" border="0" alt="DSC02139" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERKwnBCRI/AAAAAAAABUo/JhAb_dt34ms/DSC02139_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="199" height="153" /></a>  <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERLVa6y9I/AAAAAAAABUs/KhB12Vckne0/s1600-h/DSC021414.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02141" border="0" alt="DSC02141" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERLylfTWI/AAAAAAAABUw/YlFSdpnIhn8/DSC02141_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="193" height="151" /></a>   <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERMeNe1EI/AAAAAAAABU0/qXnkkCBoLHI/s1600-h/DSC021444.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02144" border="0" alt="DSC02144" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERMzFdz1I/AAAAAAAABU4/2jpXVNiArVw/DSC02144_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="201" height="157" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERNy_o5AI/AAAAAAAABU8/oRisRS5iyvM/s1600-h/DSC021463.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02146" border="0" alt="DSC02146" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJEROvUVreI/AAAAAAAABVA/sFEuJ7cLy68/DSC02146_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="205" height="157" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERPAgHtvI/AAAAAAAABVE/yjm_6jljHdE/s1600-h/DSC021474.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02147" border="0" alt="DSC02147" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERPaiv0EI/AAAAAAAABVI/8NrYTpkfSmw/DSC02147_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="194" height="151" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERQLH42oI/AAAAAAAABVM/KgxiS5EW0Io/s1600-h/DSC021483.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02148" border="0" alt="DSC02148" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERQrw8EYI/AAAAAAAABVQ/Lp_fpaD9Qzo/DSC02148_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="210" height="161" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERRV9OfWI/AAAAAAAABVU/y1rgiBeAHZY/s1600-h/DSC021494.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02149" border="0" alt="DSC02149" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERR6WYFAI/AAAAAAAABVY/PxNr8Obto94/DSC02149_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="190" height="148" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERSt6ItAI/AAAAAAAABVc/GGqtlH1786o/s1600-h/DSC021505.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02150" border="0" alt="DSC02150" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERTEwYUJI/AAAAAAAABVg/Kjfo7oJ1CG4/DSC02150_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="207" height="164" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERToIecgI/AAAAAAAABVk/Q0Br1HsHEgc/s1600-h/DSC021515.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02151" border="0" alt="DSC02151" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERUf7vI0I/AAAAAAAABVo/bEs_IjmD7hM/DSC02151_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="199" height="157" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERVj_BGvI/AAAAAAAABVs/N_54C9Zt-9s/s1600-h/DSC021523.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02152" border="0" alt="DSC02152" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERWI1DA9I/AAAAAAAABVw/Wb7TVRH9v7k/DSC02152_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="213" height="163" /></a>  </p> <p align="justify">On the way back we took the aerial cableways – fortunately these did not halt mid-way! We took a break at the middle-station Frakmunteg to have our early lunch. It was my no non-veg day, so I stuck to good old french fries as I watched MDH eat a scrumptious chicken dish!</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERX4E_fOI/AAAAAAAABV0/r6Kjcz560Co/s1600-h/DSC021603.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02160" border="0" alt="DSC02160" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERYajhJ-I/AAAAAAAABV4/rEBBMVu58aY/DSC02160_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="153" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERca-B6HI/AAAAAAAABV8/J6HEm6FDvn0/s1600-h/DSC021623.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02162" border="0" alt="DSC02162" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERcyBt7xI/AAAAAAAABWA/8CZOyFkrtOk/DSC02162_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="206" height="158" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERdsvEo8I/AAAAAAAABWE/wqxk_cA8LUY/s1600-h/DSC021635.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02163" border="0" alt="DSC02163" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERdzeHR6I/AAAAAAAABWI/jgS1KYhQlJw/DSC02163_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="207" height="164" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERejKOMwI/AAAAAAAABWM/feLG6EVpgwU/s1600-h/DSC021645.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02164" border="0" alt="DSC02164" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TJERfB9k6iI/AAAAAAAABWQ/U2Yj4EE97LU/DSC02164_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="158" /></a> </p> <p align="justify">Pilatus trip was a swift one and less tiring as we reached pretty early before the crowds came along!</p> <p align="justify">These 2 peaks seem popular sites for Indian tourists – caught loads of them, for a second it got me wondering if we were back in Dubai or Mumbai!</p> <p align="justify">2 peaks struck off our list – 2 more higher ones remained. We were off to our next destination – the little village called Zermatt.</p> <p align="justify"> <em>P.S: See that house in the last picture – we caught a shot on our way down from the cable car – add that to my list of “must have a house like that someday”</em></p> Minalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08556930930046840091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13107507.post-86100406108896018272010-09-12T19:51:00.001+03:002010-09-12T19:51:26.526+03:00Swiss Chronicles - Lucerne<p align="justify">How many places make you feel at home the moment you step into them, give you a feeling that you might belong here and embrace you with their warmth. </p> <p align="justify">Lucerne is among those few places. You travel for about 45 minutes by train from Zurich to reach Lucerne. The place is beautiful – a lovely mix of tradition and modernity and just about the right size. A place where you will not feel lost. Like most Swiss places, this too is surrounded by the lake Lucerne. </p> <p align="justify">The old Chapel Bridge stands across this lake as the guardian of  the city. People storm numerous Swiss restaurants along the quiet <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Luzern_-_Rathausquai.JPG">Rathausquai</a> on the shores of the lake. Getting together with family & friends after a hard day’s work, drinking beer, eating meat,watching the kids play with the swans on the banks of the lake. As you walk along the Chapel Bridge, the sound of a violin soothes your ears and you find a few street artists display their talent.  If it weren’t for the impatient me, MDH would’ve spent the entire evening on the bridge in the middle of  the lake listening to the violin tunes. Which place in the world offers such a picturesque view of a city life.</p> <p align="justify"> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0EvB7CGaI/AAAAAAAABQg/VjMEfoYm2YE/s1600-h/DSC020995.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02099" border="0" alt="DSC02099" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0EvgZn7MI/AAAAAAAABQk/CbAwdW2L_Dw/DSC02099_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="205" height="162" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0EwH4KiEI/AAAAAAAABQo/-mKZmMLRytk/s1600-h/DSC021026.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02102" border="0" alt="DSC02102" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0Ewos_r4I/AAAAAAAABQs/kn1eveAmK7c/DSC02102_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="197" height="158" /></a>  <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0ExJ01ViI/AAAAAAAABQw/31NYkBa-GHE/s1600-h/DSC021054.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02105" border="0" alt="DSC02105" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0ExiFKrpI/AAAAAAAABQ4/C0zDYBNfveA/DSC02105_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="215" height="168" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0EydCMj4I/AAAAAAAABQ8/P8sHDRktBQA/s1600-h/DSC020784.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02078" border="0" alt="DSC02078" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0EyzxiIYI/AAAAAAAABRA/9xnRSPxvtGg/DSC02078_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="190" height="148" /></a> </p> <p align="justify">As you cross the bridge and head towards Bahnofstrasse you come to the view the modern side of this city. Buzzing with shops of the biggest brands, several restaurants,fast food joints, plus hotels, youngsters hurrying up along the road and people returning home from the main station. The hustle-bustle of the city is restricted to this street alone.</p> <p align="justify">The next day we walked to the famous Museg Wall. This is along a residential street behind the Old Town. Lots of homes adorn this stretch. 3 towers of this wall are still open to public viewing. A clock on one of the towers has been set to chime a second before all other city clocks at every hour.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0Ezg7ZrHI/AAAAAAAABRE/juTaJAc0EvU/s1600-h/DSC021683.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02168" border="0" alt="DSC02168" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0E0GjoO7I/AAAAAAAABRI/HSvTeM3PC64/DSC02168_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="205" height="157" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0E0gRpLOI/AAAAAAAABRM/psmd9ZMMj6k/s1600-h/DSC021763.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02176" border="0" alt="DSC02176" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0E1AjyrYI/AAAAAAAABRQ/yKcdg1BA1eE/DSC02176_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="156" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0E17rueDI/AAAAAAAABRU/jLDuelQL5xk/s1600-h/DSC021698.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02169" border="0" alt="DSC02169" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0E2WGoSEI/AAAAAAAABRY/TGH34CyLTPw/DSC02169_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="207" height="171" /></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0E2yFpSdI/AAAAAAAABRc/ECphpJjXWdY/s1600-h/DSC021868.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02186" border="0" alt="DSC02186" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0E3T3OAFI/AAAAAAAABRg/VBVwIt24cLY/DSC02186_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="203" height="159" /></a></p> <p align="justify">We strolled down the hill to hit the main city road Lowenplatz and headed towards the famous <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lion_Monument">Lion Monument.</a> Mark Twain described this monument as the most sad and moving sculpture he had ever seen. He was right,the Lion sits in a sombre mood marking the sacrifice of Swiss Guards in 1792 during the French Revolution. </p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0E4MaRLUI/AAAAAAAABRk/D9VzdwL2hQU/s1600-h/DSC021913.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02191" border="0" alt="DSC02191" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0E4g6TLSI/AAAAAAAABRo/knqf3W9F-wU/DSC02191_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="206" height="158" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0E5s0CEKI/AAAAAAAABRs/72lLM5suq2M/s1600-h/DSC021934.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02193" border="0" alt="DSC02193" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0E6VngSGI/AAAAAAAABRw/bbJKhgWY3jQ/DSC02193_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="192" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0E7O1_gzI/AAAAAAAABR0/WRKbq8tP9T8/s1600-h/DSC021944.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02194" border="0" alt="DSC02194" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0E7rZbIsI/AAAAAAAABR4/ITBortvWZLE/DSC02194_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="159" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0E8Z_xzBI/AAAAAAAABR8/RgMX6RvO1ZQ/s1600-h/DSC021965.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02196" border="0" alt="DSC02196" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0E9SIpGvI/AAAAAAAABSA/oLPKO-YHLyI/DSC02196_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="189" height="150" /></a>  </p> <p align="justify">We walked back and sat down in one of the city squares – viewing the people and sights all around. I don’t recollect MDH and I doing this in a long while; just sitting quietly in the midst of a city square and enjoying the buzz around us. Families came with their kids, youngsters sat down to have a quick snack, old people came down to relax. It was great to see people take time out and relax. The city offers many such spots in every nook and corner.</p> <p align="justify">It had been been 4 days in Swissland and I was craving for some good old simple Indian food. Yeah call me typically Indian, hunting for Indian food in foreign land. I was a veggie that day and bread-butter is not my ideal meal! Luckily we found an Indian restaurant close to the Lion Monument and I treated myself to a nice wada-sambar while MDH feasted on spicy fish! He gets fairly irritated with me cause he believes one should taste the country specialities once we are visiting a new place! But sigh, I cannot control my food cravings and somehow figure out a way to pacify them:-) </p> <p align="justify">The best part of our 2-day stay in this city was the location of our hotel and the fact that this place encourages walking. The tourist centre lady told us not to bother with any travel card and just walk along to the old town! The weather was perfect and we enjoyed our evening strolls around the city.</p> <p align="justify">The buildings and the roads reminded me of Mumbai’s Babulnath, Gamdevi area. I spent my school years there and always loved the stone buildings and quiet lanes covered with trees.</p> <p align="justify">Lucerne brought back some lovely memories!</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0E-XXoifI/AAAAAAAABSE/il7GxzJVqMk/s1600-h/DSC020736.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02073" border="0" alt="DSC02073" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0E_SgzJcI/AAAAAAAABSI/icYGviW0EnA/DSC02073_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="202" height="155" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0FAAccpFI/AAAAAAAABSM/rK7dcRSbYNg/s1600-h/DSC020743.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02074" border="0" alt="DSC02074" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0FAr1xW6I/AAAAAAAABSQ/9vXtlARB0OY/DSC02074_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="209" height="160" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0FBKm0aPI/AAAAAAAABSU/HdEZu1-JafQ/s1600-h/DSC020759.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02075" border="0" alt="DSC02075" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0FBvO9A8I/AAAAAAAABSY/AwgA5sBEFrM/DSC02075_thumb5.jpg?imgmax=800" width="190" height="153" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0FCVNsB1I/AAAAAAAABSc/BYHuJxOpnRw/s1600-h/DSC020765.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02076" border="0" alt="DSC02076" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TI0FC63j1SI/AAAAAAAABSg/1nQZoglb5PQ/DSC02076_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="209" height="166" /></a></p> Minalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08556930930046840091noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13107507.post-67322195805563004092010-09-09T23:15:00.001+03:002010-09-09T23:15:15.185+03:00Swiss Chronicles – Mt. Titlis<p align="justify">Do you have dreams? Pleasant dreams, happy dreams, dreams that bring a smile to your face. I’m not talking about big ones – the one about the dream house by the lake or beach, or driving a Rolls Royce, or travelling in your own private jet, or hoping someday you’ll be sitting by GOD’s side discussing your favourite game! </p> <p align="justify">I’m talking of the small meaningless ones, the little wishes – like wanting to hold the snow in your hands after reading C&H Books and Archie comics. </p> <p align="justify">A dream that remained a dream cause you spent a quarter of your life in the humidity of Mumbai and were never able to visit the Himalayas or up north of your country. Then having shifted base to a desertland, the dream seemed further impossible, until you landed on the first of the 4 peaks you decided to visit in the Alps</p> <p align="justify">A one-hour train to Engelberg from Lucerne and you were on the ride of your life to the one of the highest peaks in  the Alps that can be reached by aerial cableways. Yes, that is the sole mode of transport to this place. Cable cars or <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gondola_lift">Gondolas</a> as they are more commonly known in this part of the world.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIk_Jpy1ZGI/AAAAAAAABOo/7364deEv_ZI/s1600-h/DSC020022.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02002" border="0" alt="DSC02002" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIk_KfMnK4I/AAAAAAAABOs/ilBriR6UBj4/DSC02002_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> </p> <p align="justify">You change 3 different type of lifts to finally reach 3238 mts above sea-level to Mt. Titlis. On the way you encounter scenic sites as below</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIk_NZLm7UI/AAAAAAAABOw/-AYkCkekuTE/s1600-h/DSC019983.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC01998" border="0" alt="DSC01998" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIk_SKoiNGI/AAAAAAAABO0/6fs1nogTkvY/DSC01998_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="189" height="145" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIk_i1h8Z1I/AAAAAAAABO4/j679WncGrx4/s1600-h/DSC020083.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02008" border="0" alt="DSC02008" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIk_k6KS8pI/AAAAAAAABO8/FLymHILdgUY/DSC02008_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="193" height="148" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIk_ytN1-xI/AAAAAAAABPA/oq1n_phvTU4/s1600-h/DSC020173.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02017" border="0" alt="DSC02017" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIk_zn5MTaI/AAAAAAAABPE/Kp-l9LkuCoo/DSC02017_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="196" height="150" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIk_1eZ0NxI/AAAAAAAABPI/QOQ6T909BF0/s1600-h/DSC020183.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02018" border="0" alt="DSC02018" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIk_2NbYPvI/AAAAAAAABPM/dbFP2E7cJAI/DSC02018_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="205" height="157" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIk_38N4ZUI/AAAAAAAABPQ/UZdit-7T3nY/s1600-h/DSC020553.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02055" border="0" alt="DSC02055" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIk_4lpRXzI/AAAAAAAABPU/quWhskkp9ao/DSC02055_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="203" height="156" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIk_6MdtxHI/AAAAAAAABPY/HmQtEqx0Pc0/s1600-h/DSC020563.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02056" border="0" alt="DSC02056" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIk_67oD-kI/AAAAAAAABPc/FpK_JAh2NN8/DSC02056_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="202" height="155" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIk_9ctxtyI/AAAAAAAABPg/W4O5XLU2HG8/s1600-h/DSC020585.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02058" border="0" alt="DSC02058" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIlAALu6-ZI/AAAAAAAABPk/ok5P8qjrhl8/DSC02058_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="203" height="161" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIlAEWyCMrI/AAAAAAAABPo/eAB4xr2__p4/s1600-h/DSC020593.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02059" border="0" alt="DSC02059" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIlAFJIfnPI/AAAAAAAABPs/288Kq-bfsvs/DSC02059_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="156" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIlAGmX6AQI/AAAAAAAABPw/iWg9gRo2eSc/s1600-h/DSC020603.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02060" border="0" alt="DSC02060" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIlAHSBzRGI/AAAAAAAABP0/VX-pbgnnPm0/DSC02060_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="210" height="161" /></a> </p> <p align="justify">You get to have an Indian Buffet at their restaurant and head straight into the snow! </p> <p align="justify">Yes I held snow in my hands for the first time in my life, I walked on it, I played in it and I got to throw a snowball! The feeling hasn’t sunk in and don’t think I’ll get over it anytime soon. Little dreams when they come true bring unbelievable happiness. </p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIlAJCJn2xI/AAAAAAAABP4/kRBpJ63PqJ0/s1600-h/DSC020272.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02027" border="0" alt="DSC02027" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIlAJ_npw8I/AAAAAAAABP8/aZNEgD0daMo/DSC02027_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="124" height="191" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIlAKo4LCsI/AAAAAAAABQA/fkpz8VAIrBQ/s1600-h/DSC020282.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02028" border="0" alt="DSC02028" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIlALXAVfgI/AAAAAAAABQE/Ack2ClftGXY/DSC02028_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="201" height="183" /></a> </p> <p align="justify">I’m scared of valley ranges and MDH made me get into <a href="http://www.google.co.in/imgres?imgurl=http://images.travelpod.com/users/singhsoumya/1.1272216386.chair-lift.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/singhsoumya/1/1272216386/tpod.html&usg=__AwSU_KRYHO3CkBM0hfmIrlGdhyQ=&h=413&w=550&sz=70&hl=en&start=0&zoom=1&tbnid=ELrKRwsirsN-HM:&tbnh=124&tbnw=176&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dopen%2Bair%2Blift%2Bmt%2Btitlis%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26rls%3Dcom.microsoft:en-gb:IE-SearchBox%26rlz%3D1I7GZAZ_en%26biw%3D963%26bih%3D398%26tbs%3Disch:1&um=1&itbs=1&iact=rc&dur=592&ei=1y6JTIPWFN2UOLD5uYsO&oei=1y6JTIPWFN2UOLD5uYsO&esq=1&page=1&ndsp=8&ved=1t:429,r:0,s:0&tx=85&ty=91">this one</a> while travelling to Glacier Park from Mt. Titlis! </p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIlANOtibZI/AAAAAAAABQI/TA9zS6NnzFQ/s1600-h/DSC020313.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02031" border="0" alt="DSC02031" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIlAOUG_hOI/AAAAAAAABQM/x9ykXqdx1T4/DSC02031_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="421" height="208" /></a> </p> <p align="justify">As if it was not enough that we paid to be taken in covered Gondolas <em>(which by the way stopped mid-air for 10-15 mins while returning back giving me the fright of my life)</em> – I paid 12CHF i.e. approx Rs 600 for the most terrifying 5 mins of my life! You guessed it right, I was not thinking at all. That’s me in the picture holding on to my dear life! Freaking scary it was when I sat in an open air-lift. Freezing like crazy, fog all over, only open valley below my feet! I must’ve been out of my mind to sit – but I did. </p> <p align="justify">Got back safe and sound – you must’ve guessed it from the fact that I’m putting up this blog post! I’m not doing it again ever in my life – one time was good enough!</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIlAQoXWIrI/AAAAAAAABQQ/rbbNwq2kH-I/s1600-h/DSC020336.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02033" border="0" alt="DSC02033" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIlARo3MieI/AAAAAAAABQU/728Av78henY/DSC02033_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="201" height="154" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIlATr0cI3I/AAAAAAAABQY/sP7EOtjW4hw/s1600-h/DSC020343.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC02034" border="0" alt="DSC02034" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIlAUToSOSI/AAAAAAAABQc/5pGJNZxh0dY/DSC02034_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="209" height="160" /></a> </p> <p align="justify">As much as Mt. Titlis did not help me get over my fear of valleys – it did make my little dream come true and for that reason alone the place will remain special for the rest of my life!</p> Minalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08556930930046840091noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13107507.post-71771749841509299352010-09-08T20:02:00.001+03:002010-09-08T20:02:44.942+03:00Swiss Chronicles – Rhine Falls<p align="justify">I’m petrified of water. I find it beautiful from afar. I never learnt to swim owing to this fear. I’ve still though managed to visit sea-shores, waterfalls and even go on creek cruises. I had no idea though of MDH’s way of helping me to get over my fear was to take me on a trip to the Rhine Falls.</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIfBhwxFSuI/AAAAAAAABNc/SJV_m0_xsYQ/s1600-h/DSC01938%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC01938" border="0" alt="DSC01938" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIfBiqUQT_I/AAAAAAAABNg/RV5utOCtwwY/DSC01938_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="384" height="208" /></a> </p> <p align="justify">It was not enough to see it from afar, we took a boat ride across the Rhine river and then to the rock above. We then climbed up the steep rock and were in the middle of no-where! The water sounds hitting our ears, the moistness all over. Nature has so many wonders to offer – it never ceases to amaze us! This was only the beginning of the wonders we were to experience on our “long” trip in this magical land.</p> <p align="justify">I could not help but think of our very own <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Umbrella_falls_at_Bhandardara.JPG">Bhandardara Falls in Nashik</a>. Yeah, so maybe we don’t get to go right in the middle of the falls as we got to at the Rhine but the scenic beauty remains almost the same!</p> <p align="justify">Some snaps and video of the amazing falls and the rock bang in the middle of no-where!</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIfBje3ORjI/AAAAAAAABNk/y0Ch6milwyU/s1600-h/DSC01926%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC01926" border="0" alt="DSC01926" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIfBj_lNkVI/AAAAAAAABNo/s3KPCjIVBng/DSC01926_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="192" height="154" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIfBku_2-7I/AAAAAAAABNs/8Fmzx8gbi74/s1600-h/DSC01927%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC01927" border="0" alt="DSC01927" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIfBlHh8QbI/AAAAAAAABNw/lyNqN1U6D5s/DSC01927_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="158" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIfBl-jfsSI/AAAAAAAABN0/Y2abiEIA_Jk/s1600-h/DSC01932%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC01932" border="0" alt="DSC01932" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIfBmgyt96I/AAAAAAAABN4/7vtwZy5Qc1A/DSC01932_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="203" height="156" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIfBnQUlERI/AAAAAAAABN8/MYQu8fqqf9A/s1600-h/DSC01933%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC01933" border="0" alt="DSC01933" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIfBn0gyrwI/AAAAAAAABOA/RvS_lx_J-4Y/DSC01933_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="190" height="153" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIfBoSbIskI/AAAAAAAABOE/MlCTDM4HJLc/s1600-h/DSC01935%5B10%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC01935" border="0" alt="DSC01935" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIfBo96UCMI/AAAAAAAABOI/Jb0TYRJ6oEY/DSC01935_thumb%5B8%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="201" height="168" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIfBpT6AV0I/AAAAAAAABOM/TPYwK8cBzJs/s1600-h/DSC01950%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC01950" border="0" alt="DSC01950" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIfBp2c_T-I/AAAAAAAABOQ/FC2bht7syC4/DSC01950_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="209" height="170" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIfBqaB9tYI/AAAAAAAABOU/a_uzxu2r12w/s1600-h/DSC01954%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC01954" border="0" alt="DSC01954" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIfBqxGkKGI/AAAAAAAABOY/uARuJQIljZg/DSC01954_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="207" height="164" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIfBriODZTI/AAAAAAAABOc/cVntiF5QQX4/s1600-h/DSC01957%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC01957" border="0" alt="DSC01957" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIfBr7YQNGI/AAAAAAAABOg/IICgYgz04XQ/DSC01957_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="203" height="159" /></a> </p> <p align="justify"></p> <p align="justify"></p> <p align="justify"></p> <p align="justify"></p> <p align="justify"></p> <p align="justify"></p> <p align="justify"></p> <p align="justify">Hear the water gush down the rocks as we take the boat ride towards the giant rock!</p> <div align="justify"> <div style="padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: none; padding-top: 0px" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:ce1293dd-7c08-41b8-95de-1c8df371a53d" class="wlWriterEditableSmartContent"><div id="9c940584-6a96-4d65-a05d-a36c5169780b" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JwNVTFuKBB4" target="_new"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIfBs1ObNSI/AAAAAAAABOk/w10HrqqtoXI/video8f5486c20b72%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-style: none" galleryimg="no" onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('9c940584-6a96-4d65-a05d-a36c5169780b'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"425\" height=\"355\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/JwNVTFuKBB4&hl=en\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/JwNVTFuKBB4&hl=en\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"425\" height=\"355\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt=""></a></div></div></div> </div> Minalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08556930930046840091noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13107507.post-50762870824276185842010-09-07T23:33:00.001+03:002010-09-07T23:33:23.329+03:00Swiss Chronicles – Zurich<p align="justify">As the flight descended to this small town in Swiss land I could only see greenery around me – what a pleasant change from the barren Desertland that I live in. </p> <p align="justify">The runaway of the small airport is surrounded by lush green fields. As the plane descended, I could see the lake, the waters running  by, the cows grazing lazily, the bicycles pacing down on the slopes, and then the plane landed on what was supposed to be an airport!</p> <p align="justify">Zurich airport seems smaller than the Mumbai Domestic airport. Less plush but more clean. If the small cities in India were kept as clean we too would be calling them heaven on earth.</p> <p align="justify">The landscapes are beautiful no doubt, but I don’t see much difference between these and our land. The comparison is natural – the only question that comes to mind is if only our people valued the nature we are blessed with and took care of it. That is the basic difference – people here value their land, their riches are their nature and they treasure it.</p> <p align="justify">Zurich is a busy city by European standards at least – you see loads of people rushing around in trams, buses, trains etc. The main station Zurich HauptBahnhof is buzzing throughout the day. </p> <p align="justify">The best part of this place was though seeing people have beer during the day – for heaven’s sake coffee and beer costs the same! I almost felt guilty sipping coffee when I could take a taste of beer and wine. What a heaven for my friends who love beer! I couldn’t help but remember <a href="http://lukewarmbeer.blogspot.com/">V – who loves beer</a>( as you would guess from his blog title). If I could, I’d gift him a lifetime Swiss visa!</p> <p align="justify">The people are warm and friendly. Everyone can make out a confused tourist and go out of their way to help them. The SBB – the main railway operator, has its offices at all stations and the staff there help you plan your journey, explain the cheaper options and ensure you are not cheated of your money. Yes, some are confused but that is rare. People smile at you randomly, talk to you about your experience. One lady was so touched when MDH offered his seat to her that till she got down she kept showering her blessings! We would have almost got onto the wrong train without a valid ticket had a lady at the platform not gone out of her way to help us! Yes I did encounter a rude lady but then I’d give her the benefit of the doubt of having to deal with million tourists a day at the Rhine falls.</p> <p align="justify">I’m a huge fan of public transport – have often confessed this on the blog. I still get a bigger kick by travelling in a public transport than driving my own car! I lived 25 years in Mumbai without ever missing owning a vehicle – I missed that in Dubai. Any place that does not have a good public transport makes you lazy. You tend to walk less, your brains work less, you lose sense of time, you lose your “me” time,you become dependent, you tend to read less and you tend to crib more!</p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIahdQaIMdI/AAAAAAAABMc/jHM3XEHY4e8/s1600-h/DSC01868%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC01868" border="0" alt="DSC01868" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIahd8rBSsI/AAAAAAAABMg/LcpSRhMh_dI/DSC01868_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="215" height="197" /></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIaheZVEo7I/AAAAAAAABMk/bv2qVhINVgs/s1600-h/DSC01852%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC01852" border="0" alt="DSC01852" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIahe6k5FPI/AAAAAAAABMo/j-Ef-jfc1Gg/DSC01852_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="193" height="152" /></a>  </p> <p align="justify">We did not feel the need to hunt for a cab despite the luggage we carried. There is a station at every airport which connects to the main city stations. You just hop on and hop off with the day passes you buy. The platforms, trains, escalators and elevators are well built to suffice for all – people with luggage, handicapped people, children and even pets! This place does not treat animals any differently from humans. Most restaurants and hotels permit animals and separate food trays are laid out for them. No public transport restricts people from boarding their animals onto it! Talk about equality – a lesson we all must learn.</p> <p align="justify">There is not much to see in Zurich – the St. Peter’s Church, the lake Zurich, Uteliberg top of Zurich, the old town and the famous Bahnofstrasse. Our hotel was about 10 minutes from the central station with a tram line 2 minutes walk away which made it easier for us to move around the city. Bahnhofstrasse is buzzing until 7.30 and then it goes all quiet! All shops and restaurants shut down at 8.00!!! We were lucky to find a McDonald’s open! </p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">The ride along Lake Zurich was mesmerising and made me envious of all the people who have their houses along the lake. The ride lasts one hour and takes you all over the town. I’m sharing some snaps with you all. </p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIahfrdiBxI/AAAAAAAABMs/6QORQ_MAbMI/s1600-h/DSC01871%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC01871" border="0" alt="DSC01871" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIahgMs-JPI/AAAAAAAABMw/Zfviejcho4w/DSC01871_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="207" height="159" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIahgWjzUCI/AAAAAAAABM0/QCwdDuPqjYE/s1600-h/DSC01872%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC01872" border="0" alt="DSC01872" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIahg_HkKuI/AAAAAAAABM4/ir21WjWwmWU/DSC01872_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="202" height="155" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIahhDCG23I/AAAAAAAABM8/nBrqxDn1qQQ/s1600-h/DSC01883%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC01883" border="0" alt="DSC01883" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIahhqzimzI/AAAAAAAABNA/OmjmYZADGRg/DSC01883_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="213" height="163" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIahiC6b3kI/AAAAAAAABNE/kqEat5NTbxk/s1600-h/DSC01894%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC01894" border="0" alt="DSC01894" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIahigUWKxI/AAAAAAAABNI/GmmkWqw_jhY/DSC01894_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="179" height="140" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIahjFYMBXI/AAAAAAAABNM/F_wDy-wUPeE/s1600-h/DSC01896%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC01896" border="0" alt="DSC01896" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIahjYla8sI/AAAAAAAABNQ/GlF1GpRMgdU/DSC01896_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="201" height="161" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIahkO4m2XI/AAAAAAAABNU/Z0AyfDmoZaQ/s1600-h/DSC01906%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="DSC01906" border="0" alt="DSC01906" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TIahkrQ0V-I/AAAAAAAABNY/EYI52D8xHHc/DSC01906_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="201" height="154" /></a> </p> <p align="justify">Look at the last picture – sigh don’t you wish someday you could live in house like that surrounded by nature!</p> Minalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08556930930046840091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13107507.post-86938792028620939852010-08-30T22:27:00.001+03:002010-08-30T22:27:02.466+03:00The cancer returns?<p align="justify"><a href="http://www.cricinfo.com/wisdenalmanack/content/story/154143.html">April 2000 was a black month</a> in the history of cricket. The Hansie Cronje confession shook the foundation of the “gentleman’s game”. The spirit had been infected with greed. Few more names surfaced-Azhar, Jadeja, Salim Mallik, Gibbs, Boje. Pakistani cricketers of the likes of Wasim, Waqar, Inzamam, Anwar were warned. Life bans, endless investigations, court-room trials, jury decisions – cricket saw it all. </p> <p align="justify">Cricket lost tons of fans that day. I know many friends – hard core cricket buffs, some players themselves at different levels, gave up watching the game. Players were under scrutiny, trust was lost, faith destroyed and punishments meted out. </p> <p align="justify">A few fans though kept quiet; fans like me for whom cricket is almost a religion. You do not give up on religion and god that easily even though all may not seem right. You have been brought up to follow that path and you know no other. You grow up with a belief and you don’t let a few idiots destroy it in minutes. So you tell yourself to look beyond and search for those few to guard the sanctity of your religion. Things begin to improve and somewhere you get the feeling that the therapy is working and the cancer can be cleaned up. </p> <p align="justify">And the therapy worked, or so we believed. What a fabulous decade we had. The game and the teams put rose above the scandal, and took steps to restore the hopeless fan’s faith. Young talents sprung up, Australia dominated, South Africa, England and India fought hard while Pakistan the most unpredictable of the lot, threw up talents like hot-selling cakes. </p> <p align="justify"><font color="#333333">We had some unpredictable results, uncanny victories, underdogs triumphing and the game had regained its old beauty. We were back to shouting hoarse the age old adage, <em>“Cricket is a game of glorious uncertainties”. </em>Then a friend of mine would say – Minal, I think the match was fixed”. I’d mouth of obscenities to him for being a disbeliever, doubter  and a shame of a fan to the game. I did not want to believe that such a thing existed. The cancer was killed I was told all these years.</font></p> <p align="justify">In the last few months, sporadic news came to light – the <a href="http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Match-fixing-rampant-in-T20-league-say-reports/articleshow/5850871.cms">IPL match-fixing allegations,</a>the <a href="http://www.indianexpress.com/news/kaneria-in-matchfixing-row/604914/">Kaneria case</a>. Nothing concrete emerged and we chose to ignore. Benign tumours, false alarms I told myself. If the game is running smooth, the media will find ways to disrupt the harmony for their TRP greed.</p> <p align="justify">I ignored and chose to revel in the joy that the 2 As were bestowing on us fans. Not since the 2Ws have I seen such fine display of seam and swing from Pakistan. Aus and Eng were tottering against these two. Aamir is a genuine talent – all of 18 – he seemed like the blessing Pakistan was seeking all this while. </p> <p align="justify">Pakistan has had an awful year in cricket – the SL attack, its aftermath resulting in sacking of Pakistan as the co-host of the 2011 World Cup matches and the elimination as a host to international tours. Amir and Asif with their fine bowling performances this summer in England had every cricket fan in the world swooning over them.</p> <p align="justify">In a decade dominated by the batsmen, we fans were getting some fine glimpses of the future to come in Amir & Asif. The honours were in balance before the start of the 4th test and on the second day it almost looked like Pak might seal another series draw with Amir’s outburst of 6 wickets having stripped England to 102-7. Broad and Trott came together to play an <a href="http://www.cricinfo.com/england-v-pakistan-2010/content/story/474736.html">epic fight back</a> in the history of test cricket.</p> <p align="justify">Pakistan lost the plot and Swann sealed it off England by dismissing them for 74 in the first innings. At 40-4 on the 4th evening , with the fans relishing the cricket dished out in the summer, <a href="http://www.cricinfo.com/england-v-pakistan-2010/content/story/474890.html">this</a> was not needed to be heard or read on a fine Sunday morning.   </p> <p align="justify">If proven guilty it will be tragic for Pakistan, for cricket and for us fans. Not only will we lose out on a prodigious talent but the doctors will declare that the cancer has not been eradicated and it will be time again for therapy.</p> <p align="justify">I cannot understand what lures a player to sell his pride and his loyalty to the game, to his country , to his fan for a few green notes. You take us for granted – we the blind followers of this crazy religion. Our love does not give you the right to play with it and cripple it. There is enough money in the game today and yet the greed erupts – cause apparently nothing is enough. </p> <p align="justify">Pakistan did not need this – not now when it was clearing up the demons of its torrid past. Amir and Asif looked good to put the team back on track and hunt down the top teams. They had sown the seeds of ambition in this young team. Imran Khan, Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis would’ve been proud to see their legacy being protected and carried forward. </p> <p align="justify">If guilty, they must pay – with a life ban. If you corrupt the game – you must not be allowed to comeback to it again. The team must be pulled up and Pakistan Board will need to do a lot of self-introspection before the country is allowed to play cricket again. This time the ICC must be harsh,no two thoughts about it. Cause if they let go this time, the cancer will not be contained and will spread like a virus.</p> <p align="justify">If not guilty then they must be given all the support to get back the confidence and walk into the stadium with their heads held high. </p> <p align="justify">Trust and faith are a tricky business. It takes years to build them up and a minute for them to breakdown. The fan today is seeking reasons – reasons to believe that this is one-off and has not tainted the entire game. </p> <p align="justify"><em>Reason is our soul's left hand, Faith her right.  ~John Donne</em></p> <p align="justify">And as cricket’s soul seeks her left hand for the cancer that has eroded her again, her right hand is pinching the left hand hoping to get up from what seems a never ending nightmare.</p> Minalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08556930930046840091noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13107507.post-52688668141116824972010-08-25T22:06:00.001+03:002010-08-25T22:06:58.673+03:00Random Cricket Conundrums – Answers Anyone?<p align="justify">Why are people trying to analyze the “Sehwag” phenomenon? <em>I would advise them DON’T BOTHER! If he could be explained he would not be Sehwag.</em></p> <p align="justify">Why do television channels still have Charu Sharma and Manish Valicha as cricket anchors? </p> <p align="justify">Once you have convinced me on the above,  can you try the impossible ? Explain to me the business reason for having Arunlal as a commentator – he speaks Hinglish.</p> <p align="justify">Why is Ravindra Jadeja still in the team? Why Why Why?</p> <p align="justify">Do we as a team take pride in being consistently inconsistent? Is it too difficult to be disciplined in our approach to every match?</p> <p align="justify">Has anyone else noticed the awful gap in our batting line-up sans Sachin and Gambhir? <em>Sehwag has scored 40%+ runs of the team total in the entire tournament. </em></p> <p align="justify">Did someone tell me that we play 7 batsman? I’ve so far heard only one man make all the runs, where are the rest? <em>Gone for a nice swim in the Indian Ocean, or maybe not cause they are already struggling to stay afloat against swing and spin bowling!</em></p> <p align="justify">If this is the team we are going to take to field 6 months from now, does anyone agree that Sachin’s dream of winning a world cup just might remain a dream?</p> <p align="justify">Are there times in your life when you sleep through the boredom, the routine tasks, the monotonous chores? Do you get the the feeling that the Indian team is beginning to treat playing against SL in the same fashion?</p> <p align="justify">I don’t find any motivation to watch SL & India compete against each other, do you often wonder how do they motivate themselves to play? <em>Or maybe they don’t, which is why we get bundled out for just over 100!</em></p> <p align="justify">Has anyone else realised that this Saturday is probably the 99999999 raised to nth time India will play SL and the 9999th time in the final? <em>Excited – hell yeah –Damn you Kiwis! I’d rather utilize it more fruitfully by catching up on my weekend sleep!</em></p> Minalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08556930930046840091noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13107507.post-71888468145250741582010-08-22T22:13:00.001+03:002010-08-22T22:13:22.234+03:00Let go you curious cats…<p align="justify">Has anyone of you had “friendship”break-ups? </p> <p align="justify">Friends who became close in a short span of time, friends who pledged loyalty and faith for a lifetime; and when the testing times came showed clearly where their priorities lied.</p> <p align="justify">Their choices made you sick to the stomach. </p> <p align="justify">The friend in college who went behind your back just to become the popular one.</p> <p align="justify">The friend who professed never-ending loyalty just to hurt you in a second</p> <p align="justify">The husband’s bachelor friend who failed to stand up to his moody wife, easily forgetting the times you were his family when he was in this city leading a lonely life. </p> <p align="justify">And finally the friend at your workplace who was your closest confidant, chose diplomacy and power hungry colleagues, refusing to support your stance.</p> <p align="justify">I have let go – I hurt, I sulked and I wondered what I did wrong. Fact was I did not – this is how I’ve been all my life – no two faces from me. Frank and forthright is me. </p> <p align="justify">I try not to hurt , and when I realise I do, I’m not afraid to say sorry. Friendships are not worth giving up over silly issues, egos and arguments. And if you chose not to understand me and the value of my friendhip, I decided to let you go. So be happy in the life you chose and let me go.</p> <p align="justify">Stop being curious of what I’m upto in life, where I’m based,whether I’m doing well in my career or not, whether I’m married or single, whether I’ve kids, where I’m taking my vacation, what am I thinking and what I’m writing</p> <p align="justify">You lost your chance to make up and be my friend again;had you realized your follies I would’ve forgotten and welcomed you with open arms back in my life. My friends have meant the world to me and I hate losing any – so you know you were not worth it when I’ve chosen to let go of you.</p> <p align="justify">Now grow up and let go of me – you curious cats!</p> Minalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08556930930046840091noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13107507.post-78144344451989730162010-08-17T19:27:00.001+03:002010-08-17T19:27:18.873+03:00You can change your name but we decide what to do with it!<p align="justify">So you change your name from the maiden name to the married name. You go ahead submit the necessary documents to the bank. You make a personal visit to the bank to verify everything so as to ensure there are no hiccups.</p> <p align="justify">But then you see that the name has been amended on the account but not on the e-statement of the current account. The name has been amended on the credit card statement but not on the credit card itself.</p> <p align="justify">So knowing things take time and maybe system updates could be the reason, you wait to see the changes. A month, two and more pass by, but nothing changes.</p> <p align="justify">You pick up the phone and call the call-centre expecting a quick-fix but all that you get to hear is: <em>“Madam you need to visit the branch personally with all your documents”. </em>So much for phone and internet banking and efficient systems! Systems which show the name on account has changed but refuse to get it amended on the statement cause there is a separate team who handles the statements.</p> <p align="justify">So the sarcastic devil within is dying to get out but you are aware these calls are recorded and put up a polite front.</p> <p align="justify">And as if this misery was not enough, when the credit card is up for renewal and it is delivered to you a month and half in advance – you get it with your old name on it.</p> <p align="justify">So knowing well the futility of the whole exercise, you get yourself to dial the call-centre for help. You check with them as to why was your name not updated on the card when it was done on the statement.</p> <p align="justify">And you get a reply: Madam we decide what name to fit in cause your new name is too long!!</p> <p align="justify">SIGH!!! </p> Minalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08556930930046840091noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13107507.post-15958012931561358372010-08-17T18:47:00.001+03:002010-08-17T18:47:29.284+03:00Cursed ???<p align="justify">What if you realize you are cursed? </p> <p align="justify">That you get bored too soon with things on platter, that you find a challenge no longer challenging, that it gets difficult to motivate yourself, that you know where your passion and love lies but cannot quit to make it work, that at times you wished you were not the brightest kid in the class so that there were less expectations of you, that you had just followed your gut and taken the easy way out than lived 8 years of you life surrounded by those wizards of oz,that most times that “I don’t care” attitude you put up is quite a facade,that you had not inherited the temper that runs in the family,that you are not able to give up the rebellious streak knowing it does much harm than good, that you constantly question the norm when others would rather you quietly tread on it, that you feel so petty thinking all the above thoughts when there are millions more who can never have even 0.001% of the lovely life you have enjoyed till date, that you keep failing yourself by not finding the courage to face things when you see a million inspirational people before you,that all  that you do these days is be confused and write a blog post sounding as incoherent as it could be!</p> Minalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08556930930046840091noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13107507.post-17578672247427200882010-08-14T22:05:00.001+03:002010-08-14T22:05:43.963+03:00Rest in Peace Tejaswee<p align="justify">I didn’t know you until I had read <a href="http://indianhomemaker.wordpress.com/2010/08/05/please-pray-for-my-daughters-life/">this last week.</a> I know little of your mum from her inspiring blogs. I prayed hard for you to get well. I checked today for the update on you and did not want to read <a href="http://indianhomemaker.wordpress.com/2010/08/13/she-will-live-forever-in-our-hearts/">this</a>.</p> <p align="justify">I have seen death at close quarters – my father,grandparents,cousin, uncles. I’ve seen my aunt lose her beloved son (at an age little older than yours Tejaswee). 19 is not an age to die , it is supposed to be an age where you start living. I’ve hated God many a times before, and when I read IHM’s post today – I landed up hating him again. Why does he do this – take a child away before the parents? There is no telling what the parents go through when they lose their beloved child. It takes immense strength to overcome that grief and void.</p> <p align="justify">It’s not easy for the ones who stay behind, your mum has shown her strength – but even though you are far away you need to be with her and shower that radiant smile on her always from above.</p> <p align="justify">May you shine forever in your new world. IHM I’ve no words – you are a fine woman from the little I’ve known you. You are strong and we are with you in this hour. </p> <p align="justify">Tejaswee – rest in peace sweet child. <a href="http://blabberblah.wordpress.com/">Your blog</a> leaves behind your legacy – the childlike exuberance and the ladylike maturity – a fine reflection of your mom. You will be in memory forever.</p> Minalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08556930930046840091noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13107507.post-64050615697059537842010-08-11T20:32:00.001+03:002010-08-11T20:32:32.801+03:00Have you ever wished that people…<ul> <li> <div align="justify"><em>Kept their egos aside and realised the value of relationships in life</em></div> </li> <li> <div align="justify"><em>Stopped being two-faced and had the courage to show their true colours</em></div> </li> <li> <div align="justify"><em>Appreciated intelligence and smartness over dumb ‘chamchas’</em></div> </li> <li> <div align="justify"><em>Had the courage to stand up for friendships over professional relationships</em></div> </li> <li> <div align="justify"><em>Got over their silly insecurities which would cost their loved ones their most treasured relationships</em></div> </li> <li> <div align="justify"><em>Realised that covering up for others mistakes will only worsen matters and drive away the perfect workers</em></div> </li> <li> <div align="justify"><em>Realised that basic courtesies in life are important and matter in all relations – personal and professional</em></div> </li> <li> <div align="justify"><em>Bought themselves a better upbringing for theirs sure did not do a great job</em></div> </li> <li> <div align="justify"><em>Just grew up!</em></div> </li> </ul> Minalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08556930930046840091noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13107507.post-1785743135523143852010-08-10T19:09:00.001+03:002010-08-10T19:09:29.098+03:00The Story of My 2 Daughters<p align="justify">I’ve never been a kids person that is MDH’s domain. I’m rather miserable at it honestly – I don’t know what to entertain them with after a point and how to take the conversation ahead. </p> <p align="justify">Blame it on the fact that I’m one of the youngest among all cousins; and was the kid in the family for long until my nieces and nephews came along. I was 6 when my first niece was born and I did not identify with the concept of “aunt”. My nieces in the age-group of 18-24 are more like my sisters. While they were growing up I was never entrusted with any responsibility, I was their friend or sister. I pamper them like a sis would, not the way an aunt would.</p> <p align="justify">I didn’t identify with what exactly they call “motherly” feeling until I met <a href="http://grangergab.blogspot.com/2009/06/have-u-ceen-my-little-angel.html">little “C”</a>. My first neighbour in Dubai, my first family. C used to spend tons of hours at our place entertaining us with her newly found tales of wisdom, song recitals and dance performances. MDH was her best friend, I was her “Mavshi ( mom’s sis)”. When they moved back to Mumbai, MDH and I were left with a void impossible to be filled up again. Fortunately, her parents (P & A) live close to our place in Mumbai and there has not been a single time in our visits back home that we do not meet them and their little angel. </p> <p align="justify">When she started her schooling, she’d wave out to me every morning as she waited for her bus. Not a day went by without our little ritual. Today I have her snap on my mobile  - when my alarm goes off, it’s her smiling face that wakes me up every morning. </p> <p align="justify">As P once told me, I treat you both like her second set of parents. So for me, C will remain my first daughter – the little angel who taught me to love:-)</p> <p align="justify">You pine for someone for so long that when they arrive you don’t know how to react. That’s what happened when my Didi and Jiju’s little angel – Ira stepped into our lives. When I held the little one in my arms on day 1 – I was in complete awe of her. She was so special and she had brought million dollar smiles to the faces of everyone in my family. Didi is the first grandchild on my maternal side and hence her little one was always going to be the special one for all uncles,aunts and us cousins. </p> <p align="justify">Ira is just 4 months old and growing up fast, I last saw her in June – all of 2 months. She has the most sweetest smile in the world, she makes me go weak in my knees. I miss her, I have her picture up on my desktop and the sight of her eases my tensions in office and brings back my lost smile. Yes she has that effect on me. I’ve a lovely video of her on my desktop, the one that MDH shot on his latest trip to India before Didi left for UK.  Ira is crying, laughing, and yawning at the same time. I laugh and cry at the same time every time I see that video. When Didi sends me her latest snaps <em>( which I get after much pestering cause when it comes to updating my sis is pretty lousy)</em>, I land up getting all emotional and start crying – yeah my hormones are playing havoc! Ira is my second daughter:-)</p> <p align="justify">I hate living abroad, I cannot hold my little angels and hug them when I miss them dearly. I can’t be part of their daily lives. All I get is telephonic or email updates and I will get to see them for a few hours/day every year. But I thank god, for blessing me with the presence of these two little wonders in my life. </p> <p align="justify">When I have my kids, will anything change – Nope. I’m an only child but my mom has her two daughters – my Didi( Ira’s mom) and Tai (my paternal cousin) and similarly for me little C and Ira will always remain my 2 daughters for the rest of my life.</p> Minalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08556930930046840091noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13107507.post-17552354878896111802010-08-07T18:46:00.001+03:002010-08-07T18:46:09.340+03:00Say a little prayer for you…<p align="justify">Over the last 3 weeks, we cricket geeks <em>( Definition: fans who love tests over ODIs and T20s) </em>have been praying – silently ,vehemently and albeit very loudly that the boredom that had set in thanks to the first 2 tests between Ind-SL needed a miraculous recovery for us fans to retain our interest in the game.</p> <p align="justify">And so god heard us – the man up there and <a href="http://www.cricinfo.com/india/content/player/35320.html">the man on the field</a> as well. The groundsman at P Sara Oval made a sensible wicket – one that assisted the bowlers to some extent. India for the first time in the series got SL all out. Sehwag bludgeoned the SL attack in quick time. Raina and the tail wagged to take a miniscule but psychological first innings lead. In the 3rd innings for  the first time, India looked like a good bowling side when they had SL reeling at 87-7, and we fans almost started relishing the sight of India chasing a score between 100-120. </p> <p align="justify">And that would’ve been still possible had we switched sides at that point and had the Aussies or South Africans bowling, but sadly it was the Indian team. Since SL had let our tail wag for 100 odd runs we needed to return the favour. I don't know which defensive snake bit Dhoni and he stopped attacking. No slips to Ishaant and field wide spread out. I didn’t quite understand what score were we defending?  Samaraweera, the first innings’ century maker was allowed easy singles which not only helped boost the score but also allowed him to time to set in. Mendis came and rubbed further salt and so we were looking at chasing 250+ instead of 150.</p> <p align="justify">Most of our top batsmen barring Dravid have a poor average in the 4th innings when compared to their overall average. The odds didn’t seem to favour us either, what with we having won only 4 times chasing 250+. So it almost seemed like the team had axed itself by choosing to go on the defensive. Losing 3 top order batsmen in the last session of day 4 did not help othe cause either. </p> <p align="justify">When I glued in to the television today morning, I was worried that we might go defensive and lose the battle altogether. But fortunately Sachin and Laxman thought otherwise, and were positive from the word go. No one more than Sachin in this line-up stresses on the importance of singles and he along with Laxman got almost 50% runs in their partnership running singles. When he runs his singles, he makes you forget he is 37, he can beat those 20 year-olds hands down! And only he could’ve hit the ball between the wicketkeeper and first slip for a 4, when facing a crowded leg-side field and Randiv bowling spot on. </p> <p align="justify">Laxman is lazy in the singles area, he is forgiven that minor flaw cause his game is otherwise flawless. He showed us again why he is very very special. Whether he drives on the off, pulls, flicks his wrists or delicately nudges for his singles – he amazes every time with the ease he plays his shots. Even with a back pain the guy makes the shot-making look so easy that even a non-player can be fooled into attempting the strokes.</p> <p align="justify">Even after Sachin departed and still a good 80+ runs to get, Laxman maintained his cool. At  the start I wondered what was going on in Raina’s mind, maybe and overdose of talk with Yuvraj led to him playing some senseless strokes. Luckily for him he did not lose his wicket and got back to the sensible, compact batting we had witnessed from him in his last 2 innings. Laxman got to his first test hundred in 4th innings. I heard commentators make statements such as this is his finest knock ever – people have poor memory. His best ever and by far the best ever by any batsman in the history of test cricket remains <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u8c3LghltBk&feature=PlayList&p=7A688F2B6B8187DC&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=15">his 281 Vs Aus in Kolkatta</a> in 2001. No one should dare make such statements again. It was a great knock but not the greatest given the opposition and the circumstances. Laxman will agree too that 281 will remain unparalleled in all aspects.</p> <p align="justify">Raina sealed the win with a fine 6 – something he was itching to do since he had stepped onto the ground. Fortunately, we did not make the match tense and eased to the total. </p> <p align="justify">Did anyone else think that the match presentation was as long as the last day itself? Man of the match, player of the match, stylish player, man of the series, and god knows how many!</p> <p align="justify">We should’ve drawn the first match and ideally won the series, but a fight back is good and looks like the thought of losing the No 1 position is helping us in a positive way. </p> <p align="justify">We are not the best no. 1 team. We won’t dominate any series till our bowling falls in place, and our batsmen stop struggling on pace as well as spinning tracks. At some point we need to play and dominate like the past no1 team – Aus did. Another huge worry is Dravid’s form, and before everyone goes about calling for his head – keep in mind the bench is not ready to take his place as yet. He should be back against the NZ series, if he fails there , then he needs to rethink about his future – until then let’s not jump the gun. I truly believe these players will know when the time is right and so let’s trust their gut feel.</p> <p align="justify">On the other side of the world, Pak struggled against some fine swing bowling by the Poms and <a href="http://www.cricinfo.com/england-v-pakistan-2010/content/current/story/471411.html">looks like all Gods are behind KP to get back to form.</a> </p> <p align="justify">Prayers are answered, test cricket is still alive! The boring ODI series begins but thank god for Eng-Pak series. Go Pommies – Aussies need some fright when you face them this summer!</p> Minalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08556930930046840091noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13107507.post-15931189769056489142010-08-04T20:33:00.001+03:002010-08-04T20:33:33.229+03:00Some random cricketing thoughts…<p align="justify">While reading the chapter on SL-Aus infamous series of 94-95 series in “The One Who Will”, my brain hit the F5 key to Ponting’s debut. He entered the scene 5 years after Sachin did and has managed to catch upto 90% of Sachin’s batting performance in tests. He leads him on the catches front by a decent number 65+.</p> <p align="justify">I do hate the guy from the bottom of my heart but looking at the statistics and his batting over the years I can’t but admire his prowess. It’s not often you can compete with a current player who has had a 5 year head-start.</p> <p align="justify">Until Nov 2008, Punter was a mere 2 centuries behind Sachin but since then Sachin has raced  ahead, increasing the difference to 9. I doubt Punter can make up that difference considering his form and the fact that if he loses the Ashes at home this year, he will most probably not make it to the test side again. </p> <p align="justify">Inspite of the above and my hatred, I will continue to remain in a little awe of this man – for managing to almost catch up with GOD on-field. </p> <p align="justify">Sehwag is the player in the current crop who might come close to these two; provided he lasts another 5-6 years and continues to play in the fashion he is playing today. By the very nature of his game, he looks good to make the most in tests than the shorter versions. The less we make a fuss about his careless attitude and not expect him to play the waiting game, the better it will be. </p> <p align="justify">India finally managed to get SL all out this series. My belief that Bhajji has been an overrated bowler stands affirm. </p> <p align="justify">There is nothing more exhilarating than watching Sehwag whack the ball out of the ground without moving his feet:-), there is nothing more  enticing than watching GOD play his trademark drives and flicks and there is nothing more heart-wrenching than watching Dravid get out LBW in 2 consecutive matches on tracks where he should’ve devoured the bowling:-(</p> Minalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08556930930046840091noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13107507.post-46225706043824257712010-08-03T21:16:00.001+03:002010-08-03T21:16:24.219+03:00Where did the choreographer disappear?<p align="justify">You hear a song on the radio before the video release and form a picture in your mind. A sequence of steps, the aerial lifts, the attitude and the surroundings where the song takes place. It keeps playing in your head for plenty reasons – the melody, the novelty, catchy beats, funky mood, hip style! And so you head to the theatre or await the video on television, but when you see the song you feel let down. Has this happened to you? Does it get you wondering where did the choreographer disappear for this one? </p> <p align="justify">Here are a few songs I love and play often on my iPod but I hate to see their videos – I’d rather see the picturization in my mind.</p> <p align="justify">1. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LAs--aSII1Y">Delhi-6 : Title Track</a></p> <p align="justify">A. R Rahman can give all the hip-hop artists a run for their money. It’s a fantastic number sung very well by Benny Dayal, Blaze, Vivinenne Pocha, Claire and Tanvi Shah. There is so much one could do and convert it into a funky dance number; yet what does Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra give us? Abhishek Bachchan jogging around the streets of Delhi with his Motorola!</p> <p align="justify">2. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RLGJU_xUVTs">Rang De Basanti – Title Track</a></p> <p align="justify">I haven’t heard another Bhangra number that can match this one – in terms of vocals (Daler Mehndi is mind-blowing) in terms of beats, in terms of the tune and the pace. The right mix to deal out one of the hardest and easily the most loved dances in India. But again  Mr. Mehra ruins it – presents the song half as always and shows Aamir being tossed around by wrestlers!</p> <p align="justify">3<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TRxehxAYDf8">. Jab Se Tere Naina - Sawariyan</a></p> <p align="justify">Such a soulful number and Shaan’s dreamy voice. Sanjay Leela Bhansali as the director and you imagine a magnum opus – million dancers and a shy Ranbir admiring the pretty Sonam decked up from top to bottom in the traditional finery. But what you get is a semi-naked thin Ranbir prancing around in a towel in his apartment making monkey faces!</p> <p align="justify">4. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=najaQf-EvKc">Ae Paapi</a> – Kismet Konnection</p> <p align="justify">The song is perfect – Neeraj Shridhar lends  the vocals for a hip-hop number and Shahid just sails through the song until danger hits in the form of Vidya Balan dressed in Red. Those couple of seconds just ruin what would’ve been among the top Shahid dance numbers.</p> <p align="justify">5. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yjxcOfRHuZ8">Dil Kya Kare – Saalam – e – Ishq</a></p> <p align="justify">This is one of my favourite romantic numbers. The right mix of pace, the soft latin beats, the melody and the voice of Adnan Sami – that makes you go hmmmm and drool! So you imagine that the lead romantic pair might get together for a salsa together and what we get is John and Vidya ( again!!!) travelling in a bus, at coffee shops, in office and at home while introducing the rest of the star cast. This is the most delightful numbers in the entire soundtrack and Nitin Advani wastes it on introducing the cast of  the movie!</p> <p align="justify">6.<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GynUcGBTbF0&feature=related">Uff Teri Ada – Karthik Calling Karthik</a></p> <p align="justify">Yeah so the movie was a disaster. Deepika is a bad actress was proven again but I loved the soundtrack. Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy rarely disappoint and Loy Mendosa’s daughter Alyssa did a swell job with the vocals on this one. On the lines of their previous numbers <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Ni87A0zIyk&feature=related">“Where’s the party tonight”</a> and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oM41nJLCrwM&feature=related">“It’s the time to disco”</a>; one expects the choreography to get somewhere close but all we get after a hopeful start in the pub is Deepika and Farhan staring at each other’s faces! Talk about ruining a good beginning!</p> <p align="justify">These just came to mind as I was listening to the playlist on my iPod – you got any more to add?</p> Minalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08556930930046840091noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13107507.post-27117201738638302302010-08-02T20:33:00.001+03:002010-08-03T20:18:29.730+03:00The One Who Will<p align="justify">I’ve a dozen books piled up on my bookshelf staring angrily at me. I’ve not done justice to them. I’m halfway through “ The One Who Will” by Jack Egan currently. I have not yet completed Steve’s autobiography “Out of my Comfort Zone” <em>( I know I’ll get murdered for this confession by my friend PK who gifted this one to me!) </em>but that will be off my to-do list sooner than later.</p><p align="justify">Jack Egan never got a chance to speak to Waugh when writing this book and the book is a compilation of thoughts from people who knew Waugh as a cricketer, paper clippings, some book references and his tour diaries. The book still makes for interesting reading.</p><p align="justify">And why am I writing this before completing the book – <a href="http://www.cricinfo.com/sri-lanka-v-india-2010/content/current/story/470658.html">cause our GOD will break this man’s record of 168 tests</a> tomorrow as he steps onto P Sara Oval – Colombo.</p><p align="justify">I’m at the half-way stage in the book where Australia has commenced the 95 tour of WI – the tour that turned the tide for the record breaking Aus side. I’ve not yet reached <a href="http://www.cricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/63683.html">the double hundred that changed the course for all – for Steve and for Australia</a>. I will share interesting tit-bits from the rest of book once I complete it – until then satisfy yourselves with some excerpts on this wonderful sporting hero . However grumpy he might have been – his game always brought a smile to our faces.</p><p align="justify"><strong>On how much he was respected by his then captain Allan Border.1987 WC :</strong></p><p align="justify"><em>“The rest of us have had legs of jelly but he seems to go ahead and just do it”</em></p><p align="justify">“<em>He’s the sort of bloke that you know is not going to freeze. If he gets hit , it’s because the bloke’s played a good shot”</em></p><p align="justify"><strong>A few things on Waugh’s grumpy attitude:</strong></p><p align="justify">Waugh had over the years gained a reputation among umpires in Australia as “always reluctant to leave the crease” . Mike Coward once wrote in the Sydeny Morning Herald, critical of Waugh’s attitude:</p><p align="justify"><em>“Just when will Steve Waugh lighten up?He presents an unhappy and unsmiling soul, and this is such a pity; cause in many ways he is a very special cricket person.”</em></p><p align="justify"><em>Peter Roebuck described him as the bloke whose lawnmower has broken down” :-)</em></p><p align="justify">The long wait for the much awaited first test hundred – Headingley, Ashes 1989. Ian Healy narrates in his book "Hands and Heals":</p><p align="justify"><em>“ The relief and joy was palpable. Stephen put his head down, determined to get as many as he could. That was his way of savouring the moment. When he reached 137, he looked up to the players' balcony and waved at Tubby Taylor , who had made 136. ‘Gotcha’ he signalled.”</em></p><p align="justify">When he faced his first failure, Steve Waugh on being dropped in Jan 1991 from the test team and replaced by his twin Mark Waugh:</p><p align="justify">“<em>It doesn’t really sink in until the plane is ready to leave and you are not on it”</em></p><p align="justify">When in 12th, the career advisers asked the Waugh twins what they wanted to do – both said <em>‘Play cricket in England’</em></p><p align="justify">Confidence. Lynette ( Steve’s wife): <em>The first time Steve visited her place for dinner, someone asked what he was going to do for a living – he said ‘Play cricket for Australia’. The whole table went quiet.</em> </p><p align="justify">His sense of humor:</p><p align="justify"><em>In his early Sheffield Sheild trips he roomed with Imran Khan. They used to get lot of phone calls , mostly for Imran who was out all the time. Steve would answer the phone and say, “Hello, when would you like to come up?”</em></p><p align="justify"><em>Against New Zealand, Australia was 300-1 at Hobart. Taylor was quite stodgy and crowd began getting abusive. When he came back to the dressing room and started complaining about the crowd’s ignorance and slow handclapping, Steve replied, “ Actually it was us mate, we started it”.</em></p><p align="justify">And how he became the master of singles – an art he became famous for in his career.</p><p align="justify">Bob Simpson worked hard on Waugh’s technique. Simpson narrates: “<em>First you got to understand it doesn’t matter how bad you look avoiding the bouncer, it’s better to avoid than try to play it down if you are not capable of playing it down. </em></p><p align="justify"><em>And that’s when he appreciated the full significance of the singles. Stephen had always been a four-hitter and so we worked hard on the ball coming in to the body. Move across to the off, all the weight on the right foot and you can roll through it, push it away to leg, get off the strike so that the bloke can’t get at you again. I don’t care who it is , if you get enough short bouncers, you start to worry about them – anyone who says they like fast bowling is an absolute liar.”</em></p><p align="justify">And those are just bits and pieces of what I’m reading now. The golden period is yet to begin,loads to come and loads to share. Watch this space for more. </p><p align="justify">Until then let’s celebrate the bloke’s achievements, one of which will be broken tomorrow by our very own little master. Let’s once again remind ourselves how blessed we have been to have witnessed Tugga play live!</p>Minalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08556930930046840091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13107507.post-35950048140520227212010-07-31T21:34:00.001+03:002010-07-31T21:34:30.128+03:00And how do we make a bday special…<p align="justify">In Dubai, I met my soul sisters – A and the 2Ds. We four are a riot together and I cannot imagine how I would’ve survived this place without them! From these 3 ladies, I’ve learnt a lot – strength, courage, compassion, loyalty and love!</p> <p align="justify">It was A’s birthday today and we decided to surprise her in our own way. (We missed junior D  as she is away in India). Another friend M too joined in and we ensured A would not forget this one.</p> <p align="justify">‘A’ loves food – non-veg, especially if it is a little spicy and oily. Though we are getting tremendously calorie conscious, we let go on occasions like these. I may not sound modest here but the fact is that 4 of us are very good cooks and have our own specialities.</p> <p align="justify">Senior D & I met up at her house and cooked the following:</p> <ul> <li> <div align="justify"><em>D’s speciality – mince kebabs, </em></div> </li> <li> <div align="justify"><em>I cooked my mum’s speciality - prawns green masala and beetroot cutlets </em></div> </li> <li> <div align="justify"><em>D & I came up with our spontaneous recipe for chicken curry – spicy and oily just as A loves it.</em></div> </li> </ul> <p align="justify">M managed to get the rotis and rice and we landed up at A’s place at 10.00 yesterday night – her hubby and daughter aware of our plans while she slept blissfully</p> <p align="justify">She tried to convince us that she was aware of our surprise but we knew she was faking it. At the stroke of 12.00 her hubby landed with the cake, balloons and a lovely Longines watch, her daughter with a life-size greeting card and her expression was worth capturing and framing for a lifetime.</p> <p align="justify">We all played our part, but as always the one who stole the show, was MDH with his awesome, spontaneous poetic skills. A lovely day began for A amidst her loved ones and the following poem summed up what she has meant to me , MDH and our entire gang in the years we have known her:</p> <p align="justify"><em>Maajhyaa baykochi ti maitrin aahe <br />Pan kharatar maagchyaa janmaachi bahin aahe</em></p> <p><em></em></p> <p align="justify"><em>Thodishi impatient aahe <br />Pan energy cha atom bomb aahe</em></p> <p align="justify"><em>Minal and Ti bhetli ki gossipcha pur yeto <br />Majhyaa IQ madhey Achaanak mothaa jump hoto </em></p> <p align="justify"><em>Tine keleli Baangdaa curry and kori roti chicken khaun mi trupt hoto <br />Good manners mhanun ghari zaun dhekar deto </em></p> <p align="justify"><em>Kaahi vel tila job mule traas zhaalaa <br />Pan malaa tyaa kaalaat kharyaa maitricha aabhaas zhaalaa </em></p> <p align="justify"><em>Honesty and Integritycha ti ek zabardasta example aahe <br />Maajhyaa Mulaanaa mi tichi story nhemich saangnaar aahe </em></p> <p align="justify"><em>“P” aani tichaa jiv “N” madhye guntalelaa aahe <br />“N” pan talent cha ek solid package aahe </em></p> <p align="justify"><em>Tishichyaa var zari asla ticha vay <br />Panchvishitlyaa mulinaahi tichyaa beautycha prashna padtoy </em></p> <p align="justify"><em>Aaz hyaa special person laa vaadhdivsaachyaa shubhecha deuyaa <br />Tu ashich hasat rahaa ..we all love u..our dearest “A”</em></p> <p></p> </i> <p>Wishing you a wonderful birthday girl and may you have millions more joyous one to celebrate. </p> Minalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08556930930046840091noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13107507.post-9512228573062769282010-07-27T20:11:00.001+03:002010-07-27T20:48:09.292+03:00The Impossible<p align="justify">Yeah I’m bored – bored of cricket! It has never happened in my 19 years of following this game that I’ve not followed a match – that too a match involving India and a test match! </p> <p align="justify">I’ve always been glued in – to the radio, to the television, to the news, to the internet at any given time – office-home-school-college did not matter! If there was a match on, I was tuned in; especially if India was playing. But this time around, believe it or not – I’ve forgotten the days the matches begin, no idea what the schedule looks like and not opened the explorer in office to logon to the sites that provide me live score.</p> <p align="justify">I was therefore, beginning to wonder if there was anything wrong with me – people even suggested I see a doctor. I almost did, until I diagnosed the cause – BCCI and Ind-Sri Lanka series.</p> <p align="justify">I’m sick and tired of seeing these two battling against each other. If there is a single soul I know, who can come up with any memorable moments except the <a href="http://grangergab.blogspot.com/2009/12/mad-man-of-indian-cricket.html">293 by Sehwag at Brabourne last year</a> between these teams, I’ll throw a party. </p> <p align="justify">Like all Bollywood romantic films these series have the same script; well most romantic films have happy endings and here only one team has had happy ending and that is Sri Lanka.</p> <p align="justify">SL bats first on their dead tracks, we play the weakest bowlers, get thrashed around for 550+. Then our batsmen cave in the first innings and put up some fight in the second but lose a game that could’ve been saved. Did anyone complain that Indian pitches are awful, my answer, please rush to Sri Lanka right now, at least our tracks offer some assistance to spinners – there you could replace bowlers with bowling machines and nothing would change the game!</p> <p align="justify">We have played 14 test matches since 2001 of which 8 were in SL. The last 3 series have been played in consecutive years 2008-2010. Of the 8 test matches in SL – we have lost 5, won 2 and 1 is currently underway which we look likely to lose.</p> <p align="justify">The closest margin in these losses was 7 wickets in 2001. The rest we have lost either by an innings or 10 wickets!</p> <p align="justify">The same Indian team has played Australia in consecutive years and every series has been memorable – some fantastic cricket and gritting display. Often it is your opponents that bring out the best in you and SL only does the opposite. I’m not finding excuses for India’s performance; but I think maybe even Sachin and Dravid are so dead bored by now, that they are not finding the will to give their best to what has become a monotonous routine year after year.</p> <p align="justify">Sigh, if BCCI does not put an end to this immediately, cricket will land up losing a lot of fans along with India losing it’s No 1 ranking in the tests. </p> <p align="justify">As for me – my sickness was partly cured by the <a href="http://www.cricinfo.com/pakistan-v-australia-2010/engine/match/426395.html">fascinating test between Aus and Pak</a>. 88 all out? How often do we get to see that score against an Aus line-up? And now I’ve some more medicine coming my way through Eng-Pak series, where a species called bowlers (which SL and India have completely buried ) will come alive on pitches that support some good swing bowling. India should not disappoint me in Oct-Nov Vs NZ and Aus, and even if they do, the Ashes will get me back on track.</p> <p align="justify">For someone who is already having a terrible time at work and seeks solace in the one thing she loves; how can BCCI be so cruel and poison me with an overdose of India-Sri Lanka series in SL!</p> <p align="justify">I was on the verge of my first serious break-up with my first love. It would’ve been unfair cause it is not entirely cricket’s fault; but we know many a times relationships break due to 3rd party involvements. Fortunately, the future is still looking relatively positive and cricket is pursuing me to continue the relationship. So I’m giving it another chance, cause if I don’t, I think I’ll hurt the most!</p> Minalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08556930930046840091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13107507.post-58508717623096400182010-07-01T22:38:00.001+03:002010-07-01T22:38:12.846+03:00Gender Bias?:-)<p align="justify">As much I want to write a post a day I am not able to find the time:-( When your mind is blank and wondering what to write on, I come across little saviours - Tags! As the brains are not working, these interesting bits zooming past in the blog world help you get out of your hibernation and stagnation!</p> <p align="justify">Saw this interesting tag on <a href="http://indianhomemaker.wordpress.com/2010/06/30/my-sins-against-gender-stereotypes/">IHM</a>, <a href="http://starsinmeyes.wordpress.com/2010/06/30/my-sins-against-gender-stereotypes/">Starry</a> and <a href="http://kaimhanta.blogspot.com/2010/06/xx-xy-games.html">Suranga’s</a> blogs and had to take it up!</p> <p align="justify">So here are the <strong>10 things I have done which my gender is not supposed to</strong>.</p> <p align="justify">1. The first one I guess is obvious – my first love - CRICKET! ‘Hell you do know the game, so you understand what a square cut is, you can actually identify the fielding positions, you can differentiate between spin and swing?’ And on this blog many a times - “Did not know a girl /lady was writing on cricket!” I can challenge, argue and beat most guys when it comes to the knowledge of this game. Yeah modesty on this front is not exactly my forte;-) </p> <p align="justify">The one person who has benefitted the most – MDH. There is never an argument on what to watch on TV when a match is on!</p> <p align="justify">2. I can fix electronic items well – I was an expert at mending VCRs as a kid. I can also change fuse bulbs and tubelights – did that often at home:-)</p> <p align="justify">3. I can be a complete couch potato. I can watch TV for hours lying on my couch without feeling guilty or ashamed of having wasted my time.</p> <p align="justify">4. I’ve rolled down the window of my car and hurled abuses at idiots who tried to act smart on the road – I landed up scaring my friends instead!</p> <p align="justify">5. I can be extremely mean and sarcastic and always have a practical/logical view point to all things :-) </p> <p align="justify">6. I love going shopping ALONE. </p> <p align="justify">7. I love superhero movies, cartoons and comics. X-Men, Batman, Superman, Star Trek , Heroes, Spiderman, Fantastic Four, Iron Man, Transformers – all of them – love them all!</p> <p align="justify">8. I love bikes, I love two-wheelers. I could never own one thanks to being in Mumbai. My parents were petrified of the traffic and I was not allowed to drive one! I made full use of my vacations in Pune – I loved going out on bike-rides!</p> <p align="justify">9. I don’t blush easily – or rather not at all. My first kathak teacher once told my mom – she is a lovely dancer, very graceful but please teach her to blush or feel shy! How will she do the Radha-Krishna dance if she cannot express shyness. My Vahini( sis-in-law) on my engagement and wedding day, “Minu atleast now we need to see how you look when you blush”</p> <p align="justify">10. My best friends from my engineering days are guys! They know me too well. We can talk nonsense – utter nonsense with each other – even today. When I need serious advice or solace I know I can trouble them at any time of the day.  Post heart-breaks, post marriages, post kids - It amazes me how pure, simple, fun and honest our friendship remains till date.</p> <p align="justify">----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</p> <p align="justify">Honestly I’m just feeling lazy to tag individuals, so will keep the tag open for everyone who reads this – do take it up!</p> Minalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08556930930046840091noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13107507.post-43193772022528667102010-06-24T16:31:00.002+03:002010-06-24T16:33:26.653+03:00How do we restore our faith back?<div align="justify"><em>What part of your life do you treasure the most? </em><div align="justify"><em>Which friends make you comfortable the most? </em></div><div align="justify"><em>Who are the people after your parents you look up to most when you are growing up? </em></div><div align="justify"><em>Which are the days you wish would come back more often? </em></div><p align="justify">For most of us the answers relate to a place where we spent most of our childhood – our school.</p><div align="justify">It is not as if school days were perfect, there were teachers I hated – especially my principal (we could never stand each other!) and some fellow classmates I did not quite get along with (am I being shallow when I say that I still cannot go back to being normal friends with some?). The place reminds me of things I’d like to forget -</div><div align="justify">My weaknesses – my stupid ego, my false pride, my competitiveness </div><div align="justify">My miseries – my drawing and craft skills- <em>(The teacher told my papa that she cleared me in the drawing papers cause she could not fail a topper, yeah I’ve lived with that all my life!) </em></div><div align="justify">My biggest regret in life – being a terrible athlete<em> (I’d run away from all sports and this when I loved to watch all sports! Weird!)</em></div><p align="justify">Despite the above, for me, school memories are fun memories about my best friends, my classmates and my teachers. The teachers who taught me so much in life – to love, to respect, to be courteous, to put self-respect and dignity above all, to share, to enjoy life and be yourself . </p><p align="justify">The school is in the heart of a city with a campus as beautiful as can be – a fine blend of tradition and modernity. The old building made of black stone adorns the main gate. It has classrooms and halls with wooden flooring, dark alleys, secret passages, the scary science laboratory, the huge upper hall where we staged our performances and showed off our “acting skills”, the place where we discovered a new door or passage everyday, and the lovely 8th standard classroom that overlooks greenery and the huge court. </p><p align="justify">The huge play areas – basketball, volleyball, throwball courts, the lovely cottage that makes the entry of pre-schoolers to the school a memorable one, the canteen which served the world’s delicious pav bhaaji for a mere 2.5 bucks, the garden between the 3 buildings(2 new ones & the old one). The open stage -the arena for flag hoisting and major functions in school. Remember the Lejhim performances! </p><p align="justify">After spending 15 years in a lovely school and 15 years since passing out – only the good memories of the place and the people remain. For a city school and one established in 1832 – the first ever girls school in Mumbai – St. Columba Girls School was an institution we were and will always remain proud of until this bit of news hit us. </p><p align="justify">http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mumbai/St-Columba-beats-retreat-takes-back-palsy-student/articleshow/6064696.cms</p><p align="justify">Darshana Ramgiri is a 9 year old child in the Primary Section. A time where you don’t understand the world at all. It is defined by what your parents and teachers tell you. So when a teacher tells you that you are unwanted, how are you going to feel about yourself? How will you ever develop dignity and self-belief? How will you garner courage to fight your battles with a disease that is not your fault, hell you don’t even know what it is and its implications are! You are not looking for sympathy – you are looking for acceptance, you are seeking your right to lead a normal life and even God has no right to deny you that – so how can a human being even think of doing it?</p><p align="justify">Worst, the school continues to employ this teacher and instead of supporting Darshana has supported this teacher’s actions! I question all the teachers in my school – are you all not mothers? Are you not mothers to your students? How would you feel if Darshana was your child and meted out similar treatment that your fellow colleague has dealt to her? Would you have stood by your colleague then? Would you support her actions? The parents leave their precious flowers in your love and care for 8 hours a day and this how you justify their faith in you? You derogate the kid and make her feel unwanted – probably making her feel she is worthless, does not have a right to education or worse to live? Thank god for Darshana’s mother who seems to be made of steel – the fact that she stood up to this injustice and won. Shame to my institution for not standing by the child – don’t forget, it is these little girls who will bring fame and success to you in the future. They will proudly look back on the foundation you laid for them when they were taking their first steps. Have you forgotten what importance a school and its teachers hold in the life of these young impressionable minds?</p><p align="justify">My school memories are good memories and I’ve consciously erased the bad ones. My experiences are nothing compared to what Darshana or some of the less blessed girls in my class have had. </p><p align="justify">But here I’m going to talk about them and why a few handful teachers this school needs to do away with – for they are terrible examples of what a teacher should be. They have managed to survive cause we girls were either scared to speak up against them or maybe most were like me who simply did not care or let their words or actions impact what we did in our lives. </p><p align="justify">I still can’t get myself to take their names except the one mentioned in the report. I’m still not sure if it is the right thing to do – I had a bad experience with them, maybe others did not. I leave it for the school to decide if these teachers need to be still around – maybe some of them have left already. </p><p align="justify">If the main culprit in this piece of news is the same teacher we had in our primary days, I will not be surprised. She was a bad example even 25 years back. She was our class teacher and extremely partial. I was fortunate to be in her good books, but she imposed some awful punishments on girls of age 5-9. She would pinch the cheeks hard, one of my classmates’ cheek tore, she was derogatory in her comments and would make them feel like scum of the earth. She crushed the self-confidence of many and I appreciate my classmates who overcame her horror and turned out fine ladies today. Ladies you will look up to and want to emulate. </p><p align="justify">If you are not good at studies it does not mean you are some deplorable person, similarly if I don’t like drawing it does not give you the right to insult me. Try telling our art teachers that, both in primary school and high-school. Aren’t creative people supposed to be more liberal, more easy-going? But here we had opposites - both were absolute terrors – I’ve bunked many a drawing classes cause I did not want to encounter their wrath or insults as I was horrible at art and simply did not like it. It’s a different story that the high-school teacher was a different person altogether when she became our class-teacher in 8<sup>th</sup> we came around to like her – but she still needs to do away with the scolding and insults for students who are not in her class.</p><p align="justify">The principal during my secondary years was equally disrespectful not only to us girls but also to our parents, she had the opinion that she was doing our parents a favour by allowing us to be in her school! Tell me how would we learn to respect her? She was mean, insulting and outright egoistic. We are taught to worship our gurus, but with teachers like her you’d only nurture hatred in your heart.</p><p align="justify">Walking in her footsteps – were two other teachers – one was my PE teacher and another who taught Marathi medium and was in charge of Girl Guide then. If you wish to learn to play politics, learn it from them and yes they will also coach you on how to do blatant partiality. During our final year both were responsible for sabotaging our prefect elections. It did not impact our life later but then it did deprive a lot of deserving candidates what was rightfully theirs. They carry with them a book of insults and how to demean a child. If you are not good at their subject you are lousy – even if you maybe a school topper. You did not choose Girl Guide so you must be lazy, you are not athletic so you are to be insulted. You don’t give me importance so you must be too proud. As you are every other teachers favourite, I need to show you your place even though you may be grounded and polite with all. </p><p align="justify">Who the hell gave you that right? I have the freedom of choice – I’m a geek, a bookworm so what? Did you ever have 10% of the intelligence I was blessed with? I don’t like outdoors – it’s my life and it’s my choice. You have no business determining how lousy I’m just cause I do not choose what you like. I have never ever disrespected my teachers and I’ve never sucked up to anyone – you need one you find someone else, stop demeaning me. I may have been a topper in school throughout but my parents ensured I stayed grounded, you have no business insulting me for being a favourite with other teachers.</p><p align="justify">There is a fine line between punishing students for the wrong they do and insulting them to the point they feel worthless. </p><p align="justify">I just happened to have some amazing teachers in school and fantastic parents who never let my confidence be affected and helped me ignore these exceptions. But what if not all are as lucky as I was – what happens to them? You think they will ever blossom and gain confidence to lead their lives.</p><p align="justify">I’ve refrained from naming or blaming people in my life which is why I’ve not mentioned names above – maybe they have realized their misdoings and rectified their wrongs. There is no intention to dig graves – I buried those incidents long time ago. But when I read this incident, all those memories came back. Some teachers have not changed and continue to be cruel. Which is why we need to speak up, I was deeply hurt after reading about Darshana Ramgiri. I feel helpless that we ex-students could do nothing to help her cause. Wish we had known earlier – we would’ve tried our bit.</p><p align="justify">I don’t know how the school is doing anymore – culprit for not being in touch! Used to visit my teachers and school every year until my graduation. Some stupid principal stopped ex-students from visiting the campus, I last heard. We have a right to that place in case she has forgotten – it’s our second home and you cannot stop a person from coming home. We love the place, it’s our shrine, our faith, our belief-system and we love some of our teachers there. </p><p align="justify">Maybe they were not perfect and they had their respective flaws – ego and favouritism we girls termed them as – but they were not cruel, they were not insulting towards us, and when the time was right they kept aside everything and praised our little achievements. We were a mischievous lot but they never held that against us. As long as we did well in our fields they were only proud of us. </p><p align="justify">I keep with me the good memories but when incidents like Darshana’s surface, it reminds me of those bad ones. Life is not perfect , with the good we have to deal with the bad. But no school or teacher has the right to do what it did to Darshana – discriminate and deny her the right to education. What message are you sending out to people? She is a normal child with a normal IQ, why was she discriminated against owing to her illness – do none of your teachers or students ever take ill? On one hand you preach equality and were pioneers of women education in Mumbai and on other hand you commit such a heinous act? </p><p align="justify">How we will deal with this I do not know – when the one place that built your life’s foundation begins to show signs of crumbling - tell me how do we restore our faith back?</p><p></p></div>Minalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08556930930046840091noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13107507.post-46329234199236541632010-06-16T21:13:00.002+03:002010-06-22T21:23:05.518+03:00Papa<p align="justify">Minu you are just like your dad – every time I hear that line, I beam with pride. I have been an out and out daddy’s girl. I’ve inherited his forthrightness, his in-your-face attitude, his loyalty, his faith, his discipline, his practicality, his meticulousness, his tidiness, his organization skills, his temper, and yes fortunately a part of his intelligence. </p><p align="justify">A brilliant writer with impeccable knowledge, if circumstances were in his favour he would’ve made a brilliant lawyer. A brilliant teacher , I don’t have the exact number of people he taught and trained to clear the promotion exams in Mumbai Municipal Corporation. The house would be full and he would be touring multiple BMC branches to coach the officers without charging a single penny. He believed money cannot compare to the joy one gets from imparting knowledge and seeing your students do well. Even after his retirement I rarely saw him free from work – his work was his passion, his life.</p><p align="justify">Always the one to help anyone and everyone who came to him, I don’t recollect anyone returning disappointed from our house. A strict disciplinarian and well respected in both families, always the one most sought after for guidance. A mentor, a guide, a loving family man.</p><p align="justify">The reason behind all the good I’ve achieved in life, the one responsible for my self-belief and confidence and my mumma’s lifeline. The one who built the bridges when mom and I had our numerous fights. The one who made me steaming hot dal-rice when I returned home from my 10th prelim exams. The only one who loved the tea I made ( I do not make tea very well:-()</p><p align="justify">The person behind my cricket craziness, who encouraged this stupid passion and hobby of mine. The one who got me addicted to the lovely game and watching matches live at stadium. The one who recorded all the cricket matches I missed due to school and college, so that I could watch every ball again. The one who built me a mini-library of books which hooked me onto reading. The one who made me independent and ready for survival in this world. The one to whom I rarely mentioned how much I loved and respected him.</p><p align="justify">His only flaw – to him his daughter seemed the most perfect person and there was none like her. I would be often embarrassed when he would go on praising me to family and friends but he was always the first one to keep me grounded to earth. All you need in life is balance – my papa taught me that!</p><p align="justify">I can write a million pages on him but will end this tribute with a poem I wrote for him 5 years ago on his birthday:</p><p align="justify"><em>Your face lit up<br />The day you held her in your arms,<br />Years of waiting, years of prayers,<br />Had finally brought the smiles. </em></p><p align="justify"><em>The man above chose a wonderful day,<br />To let her walk into your world of two,<br />The same auspicious day,<br />He had chosen to unite you two.<br /></em></p><em></em><p align="justify"><em>Home of two,<br />Now abode of three,<br />Two faces smiling and glee,<br />A little toddler binding thee.<br /></em></p><p align="justify"><em>Little lady growing into a brat,<br />She was your raja, beta and a champ at that,<br />Driving her mom crazy and mad,<br />You would convince her mom she wasn’t that bad. </em></p><p align="justify"><em>You held her little hands,<br />Taught her to walk and run on the sands,<br />Sands of time they were to be,<br />She knew you would always be there to guide thee.<br /></em></p><p align="justify"><em>Every evening she would wait at the door,<br />For the bell to ring twice,<br />The unique bell to remind her,<br />You had come to make her day twice as nice.<br /></em></p><p align="justify"><em>Mom knew she was becoming you,<br />A little version she said,<br />How will she be without you,<br />She worried and said.<br /></em></p><p align="justify"><em>She would often ponder how you would react:<br />At her graduating into a young rebel lady,<br />At her independence in thoughts,<br />At her getting her first salary,<br />At her friends who were lovable brats,<br />At her choice to live away from home,<br />At her choice to marry the guy she loved,<br />At her constant arguing with mum,<br />At the values and principles she developed,<br />At her every little thing!<br /></em></p><p align="justify"><em>She still ponders over and over,<br />She tries to gauge your reactions,<br />From the 17 years you spent with her,<br />Would it be similar to what her mind mentions?<br /></em></p><p align="justify"><em>She questions and finds no answer,<br />Why did god love you so,<br />To keep you with him forever,<br />Why was he unfair to take you so.<br /></em></p><p align="justify"><em>She is treading carefully on the sands of time,<br />Looking up to find your assuring smile,<br />She reaches home and waits aside,<br />Hoping someday that the doorbell will ring twice!<br /></em></p><p align="justify">It is 13+ years since you’ve gone and the void remains, time does not heal and I still miss you Papa every single day of my life.</p><p align="justify"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TBkb61URU8I/AAAAAAAABK4/iemPfFC16fQ/s1600-h/papamamaandme.png"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT-WIDTH: 0px; DISPLAY: inline; BORDER-TOP-WIDTH: 0px; BORDER-BOTTOM-WIDTH: 0px; BORDER-LEFT-WIDTH: 0px" title="papamamaandme" border="0" alt="papamamaandme" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_-Xw9tBk7eiE/TBkcKN5AgPI/AAAAAAAABK8/ytrys9UFSSk/papamamaandme_thumb.png?imgmax=800" width="244" height="173" /></a> </p><p align="justify">This post is an entry to the BlogAdda contest – <a href="http://blog.blogadda.com/2010/06/16/tribute-to-dad-contest">Tribute to Dad</a>. Hoping the lucky ones pick up a great gift for their dads from <a href="http://www.pringoo.com/">www.pringoo.com</a> and wishing all the wonderful fathers a very Happy Father’s Day!</p>Minalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08556930930046840091noreply@blogger.com12