LIFE POSITIVE

Rushikonda. Visakha. AP Tourism Resort

2011-12-24T09:18:00.000-08:00

Visakhapatanam

2011-12-24T09:16:00.000-08:00

Christmas in Visakhapatanam

2011-12-24T09:05:00.000-08:00

Last year I was in the beautiful city of Visakhapatanam on East Coast of India. We Mumbaikar's coming from West Coast are normally accustomed to see only sunset on a beach whereas here in Visakha we can see the sunrise and not the sunset on beach. This is the main beauty. Otherwise it is like Goa on East Coast with good people and good food.

As I had some Christian friends with me on Christmas morning I went to Church with them and attended the rituals.

I was pleasantly surprised to see the diversity of our great nation here. The ladies who came to Church were dressed in typical South Indian Silk sarees. Next, when they approached Church they covered head with Pallu. Although they chose to pray to a different Prophet they had maintained their own culture.

The next shock was difficult for me to digest as they removed footwear before entering the Church just like we enter Temple, a holy place. In our rush of daily life we do not notice and appreciate these small things which make our Nation the best in the world.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T08:45:00.000-08:00

Nowadays my travel to CST is not regular, although I have regular pass on quarterly basis. Yesterday I had to handover a gift to a special person and also needed to buy some holy water for the celebrating festive season.

This season of Christmas and New Year is full of love, hope and giving which brings cheer and joy to all irrespective of who you are and what you do. We as family and our close circuit of friends plan well in advance various activities and make the most of it.

So coming back to yesterday story. I took 11:36 Ambernath from CST and relaxed myself enjoying some reading material which is always with me. As the train moved out of Nahur, I noticed two Telugu preteen girls politely and smilingly approached very few passengers. They carried a Stainless steel tray with an idol of Durgamba. They had put some Kumkum and flowers to decorate.

The train was bit late and it must have been 12:30 and I was feeling hungry too. So these girls approached me asking for my contribution. I was in Christmas mood so opened my bag and about to give them a tenner. But something came to my mind and instead of giving them cash, I took out Nestle Milky Bar and gave it to them.

They we shocked and happy and both of them sat down and for few minutes were just admiring the packing and the color as it must have been first time for them to handle the product. After discussing something in Telugu they decided to go 50:50.

They removed the wrapper and made two equal pieces. Then slowly the enjoyed and when finished looked at me and gave a million dollar smile. This can not be described in words. I asked 'Achha Laga ? The nodded head in unison and one big smile again. As they got down at Mulund to catch the next compartment they looked back and smiled again.

I muttered to myself 'Merry Christmas'. The joy of giving is everything and we get opportunity to give every day. But Christmas and New Year are special.

India Culture in Mumbai Train

2011-11-04T02:27:00.000-07:00

Friday is always easy for a Mumbai train commuter. Don't know the reason but rush is bit less. Currently the schools and colleges are closed for Diwali so trains are nearly empty at starting point in Thane, where I stay.

Today as usual I got in to my usual 07:58 train and took usual third comfortable seat and started reading Economic Times. When Mulund few commuters got in and I noticed one old man with beard and a cap stood next to me in passage. He was unable to balance himself so bumped in to me couple of times and was very polite. Apologized profusely and gave a good smile. He was fit and looked around 70.

Today I was in good mood and it is my common practice to offer my seat to any needy guy in the compartment. Sometimes a student reading standing in crowded train for his examinations. So, today it was turn of this old man. By the time Bhandup arrived, got up and offered my seat to him. He accepted it gracefully and started reading his Hindi newspaper.

It was to my surprise that by the time Kurla came this gentleman got up and asked him to occupy the seat again as he has rested enough for about 15 minutes. Politely declined his gesture explaining I need to get down at Matunga and shared some thoughts with him.

He was Mr Singh from Mulund Colony and still was fit and working 18 hours a day for his family transport business. He has papers to show he was honoured by Govt of India as a freedom fighter. While I got ready to get down he shared his life philosophy which is still ringing in my ears.

We need to care for women and children and respect elders and our parents and grand parents. Only this will give us peace of mind and prosperity and good health. This basic Indian culture is getting forgotten today and people are chasing wrong things. This is the foundation of Indian culture!!!!

I was amazed and impressed by his simplicity and character........

New India 2010

2011-10-24T08:27:00.000-07:00

Most of my lectures get over by 12 noon and particularly on Friday it becomes difficult to get a taxi as the time clashes with most of the Muslim brothers take a break to offer Namaz. Last week it was bit difficult time and many of us were chasing few which were arriving as October heat was terrible.

Luckily, managed to get one taxi and as usual I sat in front seat next to driver. As the driver flagged the meter down an elderly couple of south India requested taxi driver to drop them to Wadala bridge thinking it was a share taxi service. Taxi driver took my silent approval and asked the couple to get in.

As the couple got down at the Bridge, two teenage girls studying Junior College at Ruia came forward thinking this was a share taxi service. These girls appeared to be from poorest of the poor staying some nearby slum colony. Once again silent exchange between myself and the driver we allowed girls to get in. While the taxi too turn from UDCT and Khalsa College Lane towards the Kings Circle, one of the girls took initiative and started chatting with me.

First she thanked me for the kindness and ride as they were not familiar with route as they normally take a bus. She inquired about my profession and requested me to guide her to do MBA. She said she has seen on TV and also heard from various sources that you can be successful and affluent if you study MBA.

She said her parents as well as the people she knew were ignorant about this MBA program which she was keen to pursue. I explained to her that just like she has spoken to me she should speak to her friends in Ruia and various teachers over there. She can take up MBA after graduation. Now, she must concentrate on her studies for XI th standard.

As we reached Matunga station, she again thanked me and we walked in opposite direction for our respective destination. While I climbed the Railway bridge, I reflected upon the enthusiasm and energy, the hunger to do well in life. The vision to become somebody and make oneself and parents proud. Not accepting the status-quo and a determination to change this world and in the process discover the meaning of her life.

Making my India a great place by 2020! I was impressed and felt good.

Kihim Beach, Alibaug

2011-05-08T22:42:00.000-07:00

Three Levels of Hindu Dharma - Modern Psychology

2011-04-22T07:07:00.000-07:00

There is lot of confusion over this word Dharma. Each one of us whether Hindu or not interprets in our own way. It is, sometimes, bit confusing. However, it is simple. Let me explain. The behavior or a way of life which leads us to happiness and prosperity throughout the entire life span from birth to death is called Dharma.

The first level is Vedas. These are instructions like coming from a 'Parent'. Like Government passing a law or an order. Whether we agree or not better strictly follow faithfully else the stringent punishment is sure to follow. Most of the times the instructions come without explanation or logic. Don't ask me why ? Just follow because I say so, it is surely good for you now and later too. If we think deeply these instructions are designed for few of us who either are ignorant or else bit of a character where no other way will work. These are called 'Prabhu Sammitam'.

The second level is Puranas. These are like we are sitting in Cafe Coffee Day or even on Facebook a friend tells us to do something. He may take trouble to explain to us the benefits of our action. We understand and act promptly in the process getting benefit as well as strengthening our relationship, making it more intimate. We follow our friends instruction because we have trust and faith in him. Friend explains us the reason why this needs to be done in a particular manner and the benefits etc in a friendly way, by telling us various stories. It is like 'Adult' to 'Adult' conversation. These are called 'Suhrid Sammitam'. Ramayana, Mahabharata, Bhagwatam etc follow in this category.

The third level is Kavya like Bhajan and Keertan. It is like your girl friend or wife loving communicates with you which we are excited to carry out in order to see the smile on her face. Certain matters need to repeated again and again. Reminders are good. It is like to bring a change is a stubborn and rigid husband, she quips, cajoles, humors, entreats and does whatever it takes to change the situation. It is like a 'Child' who needs cuddling. This is called 'Kanta Sammitam'.

While you read all the above mentioned don't you find a similarity between the famous 'I'M OK - YOU'RE OK' by Thomas A Harris who made Transactional Analysis a global phenomenon? I am happy to share this with you. I was inspired to write this after reading one article written by Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswati, the Sankarasharya of Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham.

Samsonite! Baar Baar Lagatar!!!

2011-04-11T20:33:00.000-07:00

Hey,

Once again the topic of Samsonite came up in our family discussion as one of us wanted to travel to Goa and needed a duffel bag to carry stuff for 2 to 3 nights stay.

Although, earlier pleasure of dealing with Samsonite we still visited few shops in High Street which stocked all brands and then zeroed down on Samsonite again but were bit confused and could not make up our mind. But time was running out.

On the way back home we spotted the Samsonite Official Store and decided to buy the Duffel Bag costing Rs.3,000- and what a surprise the Store offered us Rs.200- discount without asking which the High Street Shop Owner has firmly declined stating no discounts on Samsonite!

I am delighted. Samsonite, Keep it up!!!

Samsonite! Samsonite!! Samsonite!!!!

2011-03-02T02:14:00.001-08:00

I am follower of simple life. When buying a thing, prefer to buy a good branded stuff paying a little more than average price. Most of the time was proved right. The Sindhi proverb: 'Mehenga Roye Ek Baar, Sastaa Roye Baar Baar', proved right in my case.

However, in recent times with Chinese stuff flooding Indian markets, I faced few problems. It started with Arrow, Vodafone and Reebok and then with Bata. Poor quality and no customer focus, forget about customer delight. The moment they get cash they forget about you. Terrible, I must say.

So todays' story is about my Samsonite Freelander Bag. About couple of years ago, bought one good bag which was cabin luggage size to save time while travelling. Paid approx Rs.4000 and forgot about it. Samsonite make great stuff. It has a 10 year warranty on it.

Then suddenly around Diwali of 2010 it started having problem. The two handles started peeling and darkening my palms when I handled the bag. So when I got time just walked into a Samsonite Store and told them about my problem. I was shocked to get a pleasant surprise. Every store staff was friendly and polite and told me to bring the bag to him soonest so I can enjoy the use of bag.

Finally, I landed up at the shop from where the bag was purchased few years ago however without any bills or warranty papers which are mandatory. The store staff one Mr Waghmare went beyond the Samsonite policy and told me, not to worry he will do his best, but try to get some evidence that you are the real purchaser to convince the Samsonite guys.

I just searched my gmail account and found the date of purchase to be 8th November, 2008

from my credit card bills. I communicated this to Samsonite pronto. Although normally they take about two weeks to fix the bag, in my case it was done in less than a weeks time. They actually called me to inform that bag is ready and feel free to collect when you are comfortable. Needless to mention without any charge.

I believe this is ultimate example of customer service in India. I have rarely come across such a good experience. I had chance to meet their Manager Mr Shantanu Shukl who was very professional with great customer focus.

Selecting a Life Partner

2011-02-16T19:51:00.000-08:00

Selecting a Life Partner

Few years ago, my newly married female assistant Ms Kala introduced me to her husband Mr. Kailas and we chatted for a while and then left for shopping. Next day she enquired with me about my opinion about Mr. Kailas. I said: ‘Made for Each Other’. She smiled and told me: Sir, We are so much alike, there are hardly any differences. I told her politely that while Mr. Kailas is a wonderful guy he is totally different from you. Ms. Kala disagreed with my comment but we did not discuss this further.

After couple of years while having lunch together Ms Kala told me: Sir, your observation about Kailas was 100% right. We are blessed couple, he loves me very much however he is a totally different person. Your observation two years ago was right.

I gently probed and asked her to explain more. She said, He cares for me very much and knows all my weaknesses but instead of criticizing me he mentors me to overcome them. I am so lucky, to get a life partner like him.

The purpose of sharing this real life incident is very simple and straight. We need friends and life partners to mask our weakness and support us during the time of our crisis in future. Common habits, similar tastes and choices are not valid criteria for selecting a friend or a partner. So what are the ingredients or criteria for a durable and lifelong enduring relationship? I would like to quote the famous W. Somerset Maugham who said:

Quote:

Intelligence, Curiosity and Sensibility are the three pillars of a stable, enduring and intimate relationship which keeps on growing and getting better like old wine.

Unquote:

Ms Sherry Turkle is psychologist at MIT and author of ‘Evocative Objects: Things We Think With’. She says:

‘Just imagine, what will happen if we get what we want? If our pets always stay puppy-cute; if our lovers always say the sweetest things to us? If our kids are 100% polite and obedient? Our parents ever obliging too. Imagine living in utopia. If we know only cute and cuddly, we do not learn about change, growth, maturation and responsibility. If we always have a docile, submissive and accommodating partner, we will end up knowing neither the partner nor ourselves. Hence, we need a partner who keeps evolving through the relationship and questions and stretches us to grow as well.’

Golden Oriole - Valentine Day

2011-02-12T20:55:00.000-08:00

Once upon a time, I was an avid bird watcher. Most of the Sundays, woke up early morning and joined our Group. Thane is surrounded by forest from all the sides and also has plenty of water bodies, fresh water as well as salt water. Marshy lands and creeks and all. So in a way one can call it a paradise for a bird watcher.

However, recently due to many excuses, my birding or bird watching has drastically reduced however the curious birder is still alive. While taking a morning walk at Mahindra's Learning Centre at Nashik or HPCL's MDC at Nigdi, I still attempt to identify and enjoy the early morning calls and songs. It makes feel young and great.

Today it is Sunday morning and when I looked out of my east facing window, suddenly spotted the famous Golden Oriole singing merrily and inviting his significant other to celebrate the spirit of Valentine Day! For more details, visit and also listen to his song.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golden_Oriole

The arrival of Oriole tells us that winter is over and it is spring. It is time of arrival of raw mango. Time to enjoy the fresh mango pickle and the tangy Panha, too. Also, many delicacies using the raw mango. My mouth is watering while I write all this stuff and we go from Birds to Food. I live to eat and not eat to live types.

It is middle of February now and the Peepul tree is shedding the leaves and looks like an old man getting bald slowly. But the tree is full of green and red fruits and birds of all types more than a dozen variety and coming for breakfast, lunch and dinner. I have to just spend some time at window and enjoy the music and activities. It is also the time for match making for birds and selecting sites for nesting. Busy schedule for all of them. On one hand celebrate Valentine Day and at the same time select a good site to build a nest as babies will be on the way in due course and they do not have adopted any practices to plan the family.

Story Telling

2011-02-09T05:09:00.000-08:00

Since few weeks been travelling for work. This is the first time, been away from family for such a long period. Only contact with family was the mandatory phone call to my significant other after Dinner and exchanging notes over day’s activities at both ends. Further, on few occasions have been staying without newspapers and/or television. Instead of getting annoyed, adapted with this new situation, I enjoyed in different way catching up with some good reading. In a strange sort of way, it looked like going back to hostel days. Sometimes, the unpleasant weather conditions kept me inside the room.

Although books were there to keep me good company, it gave me plenty of time to ponder over life and in particular events during the past ten years which I could remember. Just for my reference, made few jottings and now sitting here in front of my computer trying to put all these fragments together. Now, trying to make a sense of it all. These are random thoughts which may need further thinking, probing, exploration and explanation in due course.

About Family and Story Telling:

Family according to me is like a harbor or an airport. Each one of the member is like a ship going on voyage everyday, stepping out each day for a new venture, fresh challenges. End of the day, we need to repair, recoup,

refuel and get charged for the battle of the next day. My old Army friend who is no more had a famous old Sindhi saying. One night stay at home and I am ready to fight another battle. My Home is God’s Home. While on the topic of family, I fondly recall my grand mother’s popular saying in Kannada: When crisis (Sankata) comes we need God (Venkataramana). Same way, we need family in time of crisis, therefore, it is essential to nurture our family relationships. Family is precious.

In bygone days, we all lived in groups that had old wise men and women who told stories to the young ones if they thought that those stories might be relevant to our needs. Stories from their own experiences, earlier generations, ancestors in the family and from mythology like Ramayana, Bhagwat and Mahabharata. This was useful in laying a robust foundation of values and virtues. This was called ‘Wisdom’ and it served to pass on experiences and learning of one generation to the next.

Somehow, we have become over confident and neglected this ability to learn from the stories of our elders to a certain extent, fundamentally because today we live in a much larger and faster world.

We tend to believe that wisdom is in books and in search engines to provide us instant answers to the problems we encounter. I wish it was true, but unfortunately it is not. Stories, however, help us creates values in young ones and only values can help us to face the crisis and rescue us to safety, too. We need to bring back story telling and listen to the stories.

As a HR professional, sometimes. I believe this applies to organizations too. We need to bring in story telling by Seniors. Juniors need to listen and remember only what is relevant and important. Needless to mention, ignore the rest.

Obviously and preferably over a glass of chilled Beer!

Cheers!!!

Ms Babita Parwah

2010-11-12T08:18:00.001-08:00

Since last few months I have been more time working on my Computer with Broadband connection. From Banking to research everything can be done easily. Easy and helpful. However, with more usage gave me some problems.

So my optometrist and physiotherapist gave some sound advice. Every 10 minutes stop. Relax. Look away at that wall and focus on calendar. Again start working. I found a better solution. Just look outside the window to my left. Green and luscious Peepal Tree and giving him company is slender Neem Tree. Few birds dancing and chirping and singing. Good break and back to business.

Life can not be normal. If it is normal it is not Life. I was getting irritated by the blue rock pigeons or Parwah as they call locally in Marathi. They are very romantic and since sunrise to sunset the gutter-goo goes on. Any season is good for them, just like humans. Being allergic to many things and scared of the bird flue, I scared them away with all the energy and enthusiasm of a young guy.

Over a period of time, one particular parwah whom I named Babita targeted our window with a grill as best accommodation to start her family. She and her boyfriend who had a look of unemployed guy with good sense of humour.

Then around Navarathri one day in morning when I went to work on my computer, I got shock. This pigeon Ms Babita had laid an egg. Oh My God! Fait Accompli!!! She knew possession is half ownership in Mumbai. No government can evict her. If this was not enough, next day one more egg. I rushed to my library to check from Salim Ali's Book of Birds and was relieved to know that was all. Two is max.

Next 3 weeks was total change of scene. The sunrise to sunset gutter-goo stopped. The husband and wife took 12 hours shifts to sit quietly without sound on the eggs and incubate them. Nature tell us that if we wish to create something we need faith, patience and commitment.

Then the babies came out and both parents started feeding them. The kids were too smart and they used to together put their heads inside the parents mouth to eat whatever was available. As the feathers came out, the learning started.

Parents preened and cleaned themselves and cleaned kids too. The parents were quite strict and tough on kids to teach discipline. Once when they were noisy, Ms Babita only just made one sound that both went silent and asked for forgiveness and went her her. Mothers are best teachers and they know when to be strict and when to be liberal. Why is it so?

Ms Babita Parwah with new born

2010-11-04T08:27:00.000-07:00

Veer Chakra and Vijaya Dashami (Dussehra)

2010-10-16T22:43:00.000-07:00

Today is the Vijaya Dashami. Day to remember our heroes. I am moved to share this with you today.

It is normal for me to take a 16:03 fast train from Thane to Dadar twice a week. It reaches Platform No.6 @ 16:29 and this time the station is quite relaxed and not crowded. I walk past the Station Master's Office under renovation and take a cab to my destination.

Last month while strolling towards the exit, I realized suddenly that my shoes needed bit of attention. Stopped at shoe shine box and allowed the guy to do his best with a smile. Normally, during such activity @ CST, my attention is drawn to the busy crowds flowing and rushing past me. Here @ Dadar, I was facing a granite wall.

Suddenly, my attention was caught by a brass plate with Government of India emblem @ my eye level. I read the inscription on the plate. It read as follows:

Flt Lft Pradyot Dastidar
Awarded Veer Chakra on 15th September, 1965
For exceptional Bravery on West Front (Pakistan)
This plate is installed in honour of him here in Dadar Station as
his residence is just 2 km away @ Parel.

Veer Chakra is 3rd Highest honour for bravery during war after Param Veer
Chakra and Mahaveer Chakra.

Before moving on, I stopped and gave my salute to my brother Pradyot. His bravery and courage allows me to live a good life. Most importantly, he gave his best without a thought
to the consequences. India is made of these heroes, which make me a proud Indian.

After reaching home, tried to know more about this great hero of Mother India. The details are as follows:

Sqn Ldr(Retd) Pradyot Dastidar, Veer Chakra

On 15th September 1965, Flt Lt Pradyot Dastidar was detailed as the navigator of target marking aircraft to lead a massive attack on the heavily defended Peshawar airfield. Visibility was so bad that he could see the airfield only when he was directly overhead.

As soon as he dropped a flare to see the target, the anti-aircraft guns opened up a heavy barrage. Undaunted by the shells and tracers he made a steady run and marked the target for the bombing stream coming behind. Then he turned around to see his bomb, while the anti-aircraft guns were firing and shells were bursting around him.

After sighting the target indicating bomb, he passed the bombing index to the leader of the stream. He left the vicinity of the airfield only after he had confirmed that the leader of the stream had understood the bombing index.

In this and seven other missions, Flt Lt Pradyot Dastidar displayed courage and skill of a high order.

Loving Dogs

2010-10-07T09:36:00.000-07:00

To begin with, well, the Dogs are nice.Don't you think so. Much nicer than human beings. More consistent. More loyal. They, also, listen better.

Research shows that you live longer if you have a dog. When you come home after a terrible day, dogs wag their tails, happy to see you again. They actually wait for you to come home. How many spouses do the same ???

Dogs know instinctively when you are down and they try their best to lick your worries away. Dogs work for us and demand very little salary. A little dry kibble and a sqeaky toy, that's about it. They can keep you warm at night and keep one eye open for the burglar at the same time.

Dogs help us by sniffing bombs planted by evil bombers and save lives during earthquakes and building collapses and lost skiers. They become our eyes if we go blind. Dogs do whatever we ask, whenever. Yet, the truth is, we have so much to learn from them. Above all they know how to play. Something we have forgotten long ago. For Dog life is fun. Just smelling life makes their juices flow. Waking up in the morning is incredible experience for a dog. It's being Alive! Is it any wonder that we like any Ad which has dog in it ?

Advertising legend Lee Clow takes his German shepherd to work. Students and Teachers at reputed Miami Ad school bring their dogs to school too. They use dogs to select the students. If a prospective student comes to the school and shows fear or disrespect to the pup at the door, they send the prospect to another school. Smudge, the chocolate Labrador Retriever and the official school Mascot , wanders in and out of the classrooms, sits on the sofa and listens attentively.

It is high time the HR starts using Dogs in the selection process in corporate world. It may be good tool to find good team players.

One of the Hindu Gods Dattatreya takes Dog as his Guru.

To end this dog story, as my Father said: 'More I look at Man, More I love My Dog'. So next time you meet one give him your Smile.

Aditya Vikram Birla - The real Sun of India

2010-08-25T22:03:00.000-07:00

Today I am inspired to share this true story from Living Legend of India Dr V N Shrikhande from Mumbai.

Sometime in 1981 got a call from Mr Birla to meet him. When I met, he immediately explained that his sickness was not my domain of expertize however the reason for meeting was that he had heard about my unique thought process from my students.

I met him once but he remembered me and got a new year diary with my name duly embossed from him. Once I had to speak on topic 'Excellence in Medical Profession' and happen to see his thoughts on excellence.

I wrote a small note to Mr Birla. My secretary told me, not to waste your time writing to such a busy man. I told her, I do not expect any reply but let me communicate. Matter ends there, once I finish my letter. Surprisingly, within 10 days got reply from him:

Quote:

Dear Dr Shrikhande:
Thank you for your charming, educative and inspiring letter of January 9th. I agree wholeheartedly with whatever you have written.

You will be surprised, what is true for you as a doctor is also relevant to me as a business man. There is great similarity. Many of the paragraphs reflect thoughts that I often propagate to my colleagues.

It was refreshing, reassuring and very enlightening to go through your letter.

Unquote:

After many months he spotted me in a party hosted by the Governor of Maharashtra. He introduced his wife Mrs Rajashree. He told her: You remember my correspondence over excellence with Dr Shrikhande. Here he is.

I realized why these people become Leaders and people love to follow them with smiling face.

Taken from: Autobiography of Dr V N Shrikhande in Marathi: ....Anee Doan Haat. Popular Publications. Mumbai

Viktor the Victor

2010-08-14T01:02:00.000-07:00

Dr B K Goyal. The Living Legend

2010-08-07T05:06:00.000-07:00

A grand mother was alone @ JFK Airport of New York returning back after assisting her daughter during maternity. The Maharastrian lady was quite emotional remembering her grandson and wanted to call her daughter and inform her that everything was okay and flight was getting ready.
Alone and being a first time traveller, her anxiety was quite high.

A tall, handsome Indian gentleman approached her and asked: 'May I help you?'. She said to herself, God has come to help me. She told him that she wants to talk to her daughter and I am totally confused and lost.

'Don't cry, Don't cry...come with me. He took her to the telephone Booth and helped her to make the call. He helped her with luggage and even changed his seat next to her till Mumbai. During that flight he talked and made her comfortable till she went to sleep.

Later while departing he gave her his card and told her to come to him if she needs any help. Repeatedly till they parted away. She discovered that he was son in law of Dr Muranjan whom this lady knew.

This gentleman was Dr B K Goyal. A real living legend worth a Bharat Ratna. It is persons like this which makes our country great and us proud of ourselves.

Taken from autobiography of Mrs Nirmala Deshpande titled in Marathi: Bhali Gondan Chandan: Publisher: Popular Prakashan. Incidentally, Mrs Deshpande happens to be neighbour of SachinTendulkar's family for many years and close friend of his father late Prof Ramesh Tendulkar.

Monsoon Magic @ Kihim Beach, Alibaug

2010-08-01T22:02:00.000-07:00

Last 40 years or more been experiencing the joy of monsoon magic in and around Mumbai. This year it was Kihim just across the Gateway of India where all the Page 3 people have cottages. The area is dense with forest greenery and coconut orchards. Paradise on earth.

Started @ 7 am with 5 close friends and we stopped @ Wadkhal Naka @ Kshoodha Shanti Gruha for a hearty breakfast. Kshoodha Shanti Gruha means Home for Bringing Calmness to Hungry Stomach. We ordered 5 Missal Pav's and 1 Ussal Wada with hot and fresh Laadi Paav. Ussal Wada is fresh and crisp Batata Wada floating in hot & spicy Ussal with local flavours. We got some crispy Kanda Bhajia's with Gun powder. Gun powder is Raigad version of red chutney given by Mumbai Wadapav vendor. Here, they add bit of roasted chana powder to make it more meaningful. You break that Kanda Bhajia and dip into Gun powder and......be happy. Washed down all the stuff with Adrak chai. Param Sukh!!!! Param Sukh!!!!!!!!

Then we moved to Sai Sanidhya Resort which is 2 minutes walk away from the Beach. Ninad who is a qualified professional with a degree in hospitality management runs the show. He is tall, dark, handsome, smiling and a gentleman. He treats each customer as God and fortunately he has discovered early in his career who are his CUSTOMERS.

In order to enhance our pleasure we got some pure water of Carlsberg and holy water from Scotland and Red colour Drakshasav from Dindori (Nasik).

For Lunch he served us special hot chappaties which are prepared with wheat flour and stuffed with rice flour. It is a delicacy never tested before. Great Chicken curry and Gulab jamuns to end the lunch.

For Dinner he served us with freshly fried Surmai and Crab Curry with Rice Bhakri and to end the creamy vermicelli pudding garnished with dry fruits. Let me not describe the great breakfast and invite your envy.

The joy of monsoon picnic is enjoyed in following way: Let me try to describe it in words:

1. The smell of water soaked and satisfied mother earth. A unique smell coming from paddy fields and water drenched trees.

2. The sensation of sharp rain drops hitting your face on the Beach. Plodding through the water puddles and jumping there and splashing it.

3. Hearing the sound of Silence, Rain, birds and the ocean. Within minutes our mind calms down so much @ zero cost. Why is that so? Ask this question to friends and no satisfactory answer come to me.

4. Joy of looking @ the cloudy sky. Every changing moment to moment. If one is lucky we may get bit of sunshine too for a moment. The joy of looking at giant waves coming to shore and wetting my feet. This is ultimate.

5. Great local food. Fresh, organic, hot. We unanimously agree that it is worthwhile to drive down to Kihim just for great food and nothing else. Those who are sea food lovers: Breaking News! This time of the year one can enjoy a special fish called Jitada only available here. But the problem is it is rare and very expensive. If you are really chosen one you may get it. We did not!!!

Ninad has a website www.sannidhya.com or you can call him on his cell +919822999085.

Promised Ninad to come again and asked him the best time to visit Kihim exclusively for Sea Food. He told shocking to visit during Navratri. The best and testiest sea food is available during that time and he says the most of the Bengali's from Mumbai make it a point to come down during that time.

Why Viktor is Victor - The Life of Viktor

2010-07-25T23:27:00.000-07:00

Our Viktor is 4th or 5th generation who takes care of our building and their occupants. The family has been very smart. Early on they discovered who is the CUSTOMER. Then they discovered what are the needs and wants of those customers. Then went on to adopt a lifestyle which delighted the customer. Viktor and his ancestors have made our life safe and secure. Viktor has never complained to us nor demanded a salary hike. He approaches us 24 x 7 x 365 days with a smiling face and positive body language.

Viktor is a stray dog in our locality. Everybody loves Viktor. He is the most popular dog in our locality.

When a new bike or car arrives in locality, Viktor spots it immediately and makes it a point to rest and sleep under the vehicle or in the front. Owners are always happy to see the scratch free vehicle and admire Viktor's service. If you come bit late from your job he waits around the corner and then escorts you till your flat to ensure you are safe and fine. Same rule he applies if you leave home early and looking for a rickshaw till the rickshaw stand.

But he has gone through terrible tragedy. The Nazi's from TMC few years ago got hold of him and castrated him and released him. This he faced bravely and adapted himself to new life. He has made his own gang of dogs and quite popular team player.

I have heard that during hot summer months, few neighbors even invite him in to rest in air conditioned bed rooms too. However, he lives life Kings style in his own way. Often he may ignore you or refuse invitation for good food too.

Whenever I see Viktor, I call him Viktarooooo lovingly and he just opens his one eye and wags his tell to say....Hey Happy to see you Old Man.....

To End: Look for a Viktor in your area. He will make your Life Better.

Long Happy and Healthy Life

2008-08-08T06:16:00.000-07:00

Dear All

Just saw latest issue of Aug/08 National Geographic and saw wonderful article which says:

The stars of the new book The Blue Zones live in four places where people enjoy extraordinarily long lives: in a mountainous part of Sardinia, on Japan's subtropical Okinawa, on the Nicoya Peninsula of Costa Rica, and in the Seventh-day Adventist community aroud Loma Linda California. Author Dan Buettner finds common threads among them and offers advice for longevity and happiness.

Have Purpose Nicoyans call it plan de vida - a reason to live makes life longer (and better)
Some purpose which has some long term significance and keeps your mind busy.

Be Active It doesn't have to be marathons. Many Sardinian men herd sheep, but anyone can make movement routine. Even a daily visit to a Shrine/Temple/Church or Place of worship is fine.

Eat Plants Blue Zoners eat little meat; historically, most didn't have access to it. Adventists advocate a vegetarian diet. Eat lot of greens and minimize meat.

Family First Okinawans honor their ancestors daily and live with multiple generations.
Remember your forefathers, if not daily at least once a month.

If we observe carefully, this is the way our grandparents lived in India. Do we need
research in West to prove their wisdom ? Food for Thought.

Baba Tiwari from Jabalpur

2008-05-31T03:38:00.000-07:00

Baba Tiwari from Jabalpur

It was S-9 Sleeper Coach of Matsyagandha Express on 26th May 2008 coming to Bombay from Manglore. This is the story of Baba Tiwari,45, resident of village near Kachnar City, outskirts of Jabalpur. I met Baba on the train.

An year ago, as a part of his profession as Pandit, Baba was on his bike with his nephew on pillion and stopped by roadside to chat with one of his clients. Suddenly one young biker who was coming at great speed lost his control and had head on collision with Baba. Baba got direct hit and along with his nephew was thrown away. His nephew escaped harmless. Baba became unconscious and was profusely bleeding from nose. He had no injury on surface of his body. After four days he recovered from coma to discover that he had multiple fractures in facial bones and bit of skull fracture and also on left side ribs. His body was immobile. With treatment he has recovered to near normalcy with ortho-belt on the neck. Doctors in Jabalpur sent him to some specialists for further treatment but everybody said only God has saved and cured him so well.

Recently one of his clients recommended him to go to Manipal as he knew some Ortho Specialist. In Manipal Hospital after several tests Doctors came to conclusion that nature has taken its own course and no further intervention other than physiotherapy was essential. He laughed and called himself Miracle Baba Tiwari from Jabalpur.

I further asked him this critical incident in life can he explain in terms of our ancient philosophy and religion ? His answer was amazing.
He quoted one Sankrit Shoka to me. The meaning is as follows:

The number of years you are going to live, the education you will get, the wealth you will get and enjoy and sons you will have. (Aayu, Dhan, Shiksha aur Putr) These four things are printed in your DNA on 7th day when your Mother conceived you. So most of your life is predetermined by your past life and good deeds of your Parents and ancestors. One can improve upon it by good behaviour during one's life time.That is entirely under your control.

When I meet persons like Baba Tiwari and see their confidence and zest for life, I get motivated and inspired. What about you ? Have you met your Baba Tiwari recently ?

2008-05-21T23:06:00.000-07:00

Pranaam!

Recently in Dec 07 and Feb 08 I had chance to visit Jabalpur and Bhopal and surrounding areas. This happened after a gap of more than 25 years. I explored the same old areas with new eyes. As always looking for good things. Things I appreciated and admired.

The first thing that hits you as you roam around Bhopal is our friends from Sind. They landed in Bhopal after independence in dire straits. Today most of the retail business and otherwise is dominated by them. The professionals like lawyers are all from Sindh. More over I was pleasantly surprised to see that Speaker of Madhya Pradesh Vidhan Sabha was also our Sindhi friend. This sent my mind thinking...........

The insecurity drives a person to work hard and be success. Our brothers from Sindh never read 'Who Moved My Cheese ?'. They actually practiced it. Then I think, Dr Spencer Johnson was inspired to write the book. My salute to our Sindhi Brothers who make me proud. More about this great community in my later blogs. Wait and Enjoy.

Next, we visited Jabalpur and saw the nature's marvel called Narmada flowing through Marble Rocks. Every Indian must visit this sight at least once. What is common in Jabalpur and Bhopal ? The answer is ' India Coffee House'.

We were amazed and pleasantly shocked to discover this paradise in Madhya Pradesh. They are a cooperative Society with majority of our friends from Gods Own Country. Malayalees. This Society runs half a dozen restaurants and two hotels in Jabalpur and Bhopal. Excellent smiling service. Great South Indian Veg and Non Veg food. Large portions and a small bill. Value for Money is India Coffee House. These joints are entirely managed by Malayalees and I did not see any other staff from Madhya Pradesh or any other Pradesh. They are successful. Expanding the business and making customers happy. And make them write blogs about it.

What do you think is the reason behind success of our friends from Sindh and Kerala ? Any Comments ?