“Even if I have to undergo pain, I wish I can live longer”. My mother would often say this in spite of having to get to the hospital to treat her ailment. When Aruvi spoke the same lines, my heart ached and my eyes brimmed with tears; it hit home hard.
Aruvi deals with multiple social issues, at several levels. The diagnosis of AIDS, being raped/molested by people close to you, and the social stigma of a woman living alone.
We may have innumerable friends crossing ways or travelling the same path as ours in our short lives here. Being a single child, I always had friends at different stages, without whom I could not have gone through the hard emotional times of coming to terms with my mother’s ill-health, teenage struggles and so on. Having said that, it is a known fact that family always comes first. Having a sibling, that one aunt or uncle, parents who we can always open up to, is a blessing indeed. But when Aruvi is diagnosed with the deadly disease, her parents and brother see her as an outcast.
TV shows, movies, all portray AIDS as a disease contracted by unprotected sex, having multiple sex partners, being transgender or being a prostitute. However educated one is, the term AIDS only makes us think of the aforementioned reasons. So Aruvi has to look for solace in a friend and not her family.
The first blow comes when she is assaulted/molested/raped by her best friend’s father who later on apologies and reasons out that he lost his wife early. Is that a reason even? The second blow is something we hear way too often - workplace harrassment. The ‘metoo’ wave on social media is a perfect example for what really exists.
The third blow to Aruvi, I am weary of. (Un)holy godmen: when will our country ever learn? Haven't we seen enough of stories of these so-called men of God who claim prey on unsuspecting women? And still they are revered, trusted and looked up to. One flaw in the movie I can point out is here. When she already has suffered with 2 men, how can she trust someone blindly to undergo hypnosis? Anyway, no movie is perfect :)
The high point of the movie for me was when Aruvi announces, “Welcome to the world of AIDS”. The looks on the faces of each one of those men gave me a high! How I wish, every molester, every rapist ends up dying a pathetic death.
The constant fear of a girl child being sent out alone, living alone, working as a single mom, is unfathomable. Of course, it is not prevalent everywhere but most often than not, this is the case. This now brings me to the next topic of being influenced over what one watches in movies and tv shows. Women are being objectified. I happened to watch a short movie on teen pregnancy shortly after watching Aruvi. The boy in question says, he and the girl made love because that is what is portrayed to be love, rather true love.
But many movies do neither. They objectify women, portray love in the most hideous manner and the women bear the brunt of it. Of course, its always the good man over the bad, but only after the good one is portrayed as a saviour and not an equal (discussion on feminism for another article!)
To conclude, Aruvi is heavy with a lot of content. All relevant, sometimes emotionally tugging you, sometimes making you thump your fist when the wrongdoers face the music. But the most important takeaway was that of forgiveness. Of course, not many, including me have the wonderful, forgiving heart and mind but how Aruvi makes everyone around her feel happy, yet remorseful is an art and a blessing.
Some movies are pure entertainment, while others are meant to make us ponder. This definitely falls under the latter. You may shed a tear or more but Aruvi is a lovely journey to behold.
Tuesday, February 6, 2018
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Kaliyug!
It is believed that the world is currently in the Kali yuga. For those who don’t know what that means, it is the last stage of the world according to Indian scriptures (kindly google more for the detailed meaning). I am not saying the world is going to end, no, please! My interpretation is that currently, it is the age of the devil/evil. When in India, I’d have the luxury of reading the newspaper in detail, but now my paper happens to be the computer. And all I read on news websites are about innocent people being killed, girls being raped by their own kin let alone unknown monsters on the streets.
While I cried for the tiny tots who had not even begun experiencing the joy of living and learning, I quite but naturally felt anger, hatred and an urge to kill the bastards who gang-raped the medical student in Delhi. Prior to this incident, I have witnessed another similar one myself. My mom was in the Intensive Care Unit for almost 9 days and was hanging by a thread for her life. If that was not enough, I found myself looking at a girl my age with umpteen tubes all over and her legs slightly apart, in a sitting position. All she did was ask me for a glass of water and I looked around wondering why no nurse would give her a glass of water. I was promptly admonished to leave the room and was left wondering what was wrong with her. She was a 23 year old medical student (again!), celebrating the occasion of her engagement with a gang of 7 boys. She was the only girl and went for drinks as she was due to be married in a month. It was more of a send-off party for her. The boys got drunk and the unthinkable happened in the rear of the car. She was thrown out of the car right in front of the hospital and she got herself admitted.
If this were not enough, the cops and the doctor (can’t blame them), asked her to explain in detail about the horrid incident. Mom said questions ranged from what they used on her, where did they use it and so on. My mom was so horrified that she called one of my very close male friends and pleaded with him not to take me out anywhere or send me out with anyone! And I had just recently told her that I was in love! I didn’t know whether to feel pity for my mom or laugh at her for feeling so scared.
So when I read the news about the gang-rape in Delhi, I immediately thought about the girl I encountered. I don’t know what her state is now and sincerely hope she is doing ok. But what has really changed? Women are still being raped, not just by some unknown monsters but also by one’s own family members! In Delhi, a rape happens every 22 minutes!
What really is wrong with such men? Do we blame their parents for their upbringing? Do we blame the friends they chose during their formative years? We can reason out for each and every question put forth. My mom always says that it is the parents’ duty to instil the right values from a very young age. I still remember my mom asking me not to touch anything in someone’s house till I got permission to do so. She didn’t call it theft directly but in her own way she taught me that something which did not belong to me should never be taken. This is to quote a simple example. When I reached my teens, all she said was, I could have as many male friends as I wanted, but that I always had to maintain a physical distance from them. She didn’t call them rapists or anything, lol! All she meant was there was a limit even in friendship especially when it came to the opposite sex. I was blessed to have found some amazing male friends who I still share a lovely relationship with. But I always thank mom for the small advice she gave me time and again just to reiterate on certain values. So does that mean that these rapists were not brought up well by their parents? I understand that some families in India have time just to make ends meet. They are not going to have moral science classes for their boys. They mostly grow up themselves and it now leads us to the question of what friends we have.
I saw the last interview of the infamous killer Ted Bundy where he said he had no complaints about his upbringing but as a teen, he was introduced to porn and that influenced his thoughts which led to the unpleasant crimes he committed. So how do we choose the right friends? Even if one man on that bus was a decent guy, he’d have stopped his friends from committing the crime. Everyone blames the government but think again, what would they do? In such a large country as mine, it is tough to check everyone’s background. How many of us check the background of our maids or drivers when we hire them? We will surely do it when such incidents come up, else all we want is someone to help us and we end up hiring a person with a valid DL or a maid who comes to the neighbour’s house as well. There was once a maid who worked in almost 5 houses in an apartment. She stole from one house and never turned up to work. Should we blame the first house who hired her or our ignorance?
What can or what should we do about this?
Men – If you want to have sex, and don’t have a partner, kindly don’t prowl the streets looking for innocent women. Prostitution is not new in India and you can freely find women and ‘quench your thirst’. Such women are willing to sell their bodies for your pleasure so you don’t have to take the trouble of finding women. I am NOT promoting prostitution! All I am saying is, there are avenues where you can find women willing to please you. I once went to a pub and saw a group of young girls having a gala time. When it was time to leave, she was pitch drunk and the group had disintegrated. She was leaving with some guy, equally drunk. God alone knows whether they knew each other or were just hooking up (I doubt they’d have remembered anything the next morning!). So, bottom line is, there are other avenues to do the act and not act upon your needs by needlessly spoiling someone’s life.
Women – Yes, we live in a society where moms are generally scared when their daughters tell them that they’re being harassed. Instead of supporting them and doing the needful, they are asked to stay put as though it is their fault being born a woman. Times are changing but majority of the society still functions this way. I read an article on why the Delhi police think that women deserve to be raped! Though some points boiled my blood, I can’t help but agree upon some of them. We live in India – period. You cannot expect people to give a ‘I don’t care’ look when a woman wears clothes other than a salwar kameez or saree. Anything that is above your knee is like you have come out wearing only a bra! I wear skirts and dresses too but women should know where to wear them. Wear it to a party, when you are with family, but not when you’re going to a busy market. Men there are not educated. They who watch adult movies will only compare you to them when you are clothed in such a way. Women reading this will want to verbally abuse me for saying this, but hell this is the truth!
You have to know your limits in India. Only now people are getting used to PDA, let alone homosexuality. We do not live in an American or European society where you can freely express love! Trust me; my mom is extremely broad-minded considering her background and upbringing. But when she saw 2 women kiss on a train here in Hong Kong, her jaws dropped! Some things will never change. It’s just engrained in their minds. Next, please do not go out with men alone. It sounds child-like but it’s the basic advice I’d give any woman. Again I am quoting my mom here. She always says she trusts me with 10 men in a room at a party and knows nothing will happen but does she trust those 10 men? Even if they happen to be my buddies? No. I wouldn’t myself. When one begins drinking uncontrollably, he may fail to recognise his own sister. And any woman is not going out with 10 men to get raped; she trusts them and wants to have fun and hence goes. But things are not hunky-dory every time! Even in the USA there was an incident where a 16 year old was ‘hanging out’ with her male friends and they all got drunk. Her naked pictures were posted online the next day and the boys claimed they knew nothing of it! Such is the power of alcohol. Unless one is sure of self-control, such things will happen. It’s up to us women to make the sane choice.
Lastly, when parents advise, please please please listen to it. As a teen, I also rebelled and created a ruckus when I was not allowed to step out after a certain time. But now I realise how important each and every advice of theirs was. Teens are meant to rebel, else they are not growing up right, but teens also have the basic sense of right and wrong. What we learn and inculcate then is going to stick to us for life. Pick the right friends. The minute you sense something they do is against your value system, there is absolutely nothing wrong in voicing your opinion. If it doesn’t work, it’s the right time to move away. Some people are meant to do bad; call it karma, fate whatever. But we are always given a chance to take the right decision and we should not let go of it.
And yes, I sincerely hope that the wrongdoers in the Delhi case are castrated and then hanged to death.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Panacea
Born into a traditional south Indian family, there was no choice but to enrol in some art form. Music and/or dance had to be a vital part of my life. And so, when I turned 5, my mother promptly enrolled me in both music and dance classes. Loved dance the instant I put those little anklets on. However, music was another story all together. I still remember, the pet used to be called Daffy and I’d hate to be in its vicinity and to top that, I had to sing the same thing again and again. It took me a while to realise that I’d been blessed with a wonderful, patient teacher. But at that age, who even thought about people and their value in our lives?
My mom who loves me to bits (whose mom doesn’t!? Duh!), had to ‘throw a bomb’ at me after a few months. “Krithika, you’re a girl. You cannot dance forever; you will get married, have children…” which indirectly meant I’d become FAT and that dance won’t look good! “So it’s going to be only music for you from now on”. I felt let down (whatever that meant to a 5 year old). But I supposedly had a natural talent and picked up quite fast. It seems when I was 2, I’d run out while my mom was at her artistic best (rangoli drawing) and sing loudly which could be heard in my neighbouring flat too. An uncle would call out to his wife and say that the apartment’s Lata Mangeshkar was there and that she should come and listen to me!!! Wow! Too much! But when my mom told me this, I finally decided to put my heart into it. Not that I practiced, but I managed to attend classes regularly and also tried to be nice with Daffy; the only pet I ever went close to (The only other pet I’ve petted is my friend’s – Scooby boy, the simple and laid back lab. This happened when I was like 17!!).
All this history is to acknowledge my humble step towards understanding and most importantly enjoying music. Since my father is deaf and mute, my mom was always fearful that I’d be born that way. But the person above who is directing us all, decided to send me down normally and my mom was not going to let me away like that. I was a prized possession and she always said that God gave me this talent to compensate for what my dad didn’t have. I feel so emotional when my father places his hands on my vocal chords to ‘feel’ my voice. But the pride in his eyes is heart warming indeed!
So yes, as usual I digress quite a bit but I’ll try to come back to what I am meaning to write. Music – tough to define what it is but I can definitely write about what it does to me. It is a panacea of sorts. When I am happy, I always listen to Rahman; when sad it has to be Ilayaraja’s classics and when contemplative, it has to be a soothing Rag. I generally listen to Ustad Rashid Khan ‘cause his voice does something to me. My husband’s slowly introducing me to western music – country, hard rock and so on. Even that kind of music for sure has a positive effect.
Music gifted me with the best of friends, a music team in which I found some talented, grounded, knowledgeable brothers and sisters, the best teachers and even my life partner. It was because of the music in me that my better half decided to take the plunge! And now, my broken leg is healing only because of the hours of music running in my ears and calming me down.
So, why this blog now? I was reading this month’s issue of Reader’s Digest (HK) which had an article on music’s healing powers and I realised that Ayurveda mentions of music therapy and how several Indian classical ragas have medicinal benefits. Thanks to time – which came to me for free ;), I decided to pick some of my favourite ragas which I listen to and sing often. I will try to provide some links of songs under the ragas and also what they help in curing.
Before I begin, I’d like to make sure that I cannot validate if they really cure diseases per say, but it definitely alleviates one’s mood Also, I am familiar with Tamil movie songs more than any other language; Hindi comes next. So, the following list will feature these 2 languages. Now that I listen to Malayalam songs, I must say that the movie songs in Malayalam are highly classical based and extremely beautiful compositions. You can find raga based film songs in practically every Indian language you want. Hence this is just a nibble of this and that.
1. Raga: Ahir Bhairav (Chakravaka in Carnatic)
This rag is sung in the morning between 6 and 9am. It is said to cure issues relating to indigestion and hypertension. My most favourite compositions in this raga:
• Movie: Muthu, Song: Vidugathaya, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Karnan, Song: Ullathil nalla ullam, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Keladi Kanmani, Song: Nee paadhi naan paadhi, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, Song: Albela Sajan, Language: Hindi
• Movie: Morning Raga, Song: Pibare Ramarasam
• Movie: Mandhira Punnagai, Song: Enna Kuraiyo, Language: Tamil
2. Raga: Sindhu Bhairavi (Bhairavi in Hindustani)
This rag is chosen as a concluding rag in most concerts. It is said to cure issues relating to sinuses, also helps in bringing in calmness to the mind. In short, it denotes peace and tranquillity. My favourite compositions in this raga:
• The first song which comes to mind is Mile Sur Mere Tumhara, the famous song denoting India’s national integration and unity in diversity. It’s on YouTube! I like the original version obviously, so my recommendation would be the original
• Movie: Sindhu Bhairavi, Song: Naanoru Sindhu, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Simla Special, Song: Unakkenna mele nindrai, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Enga ooru paatukkaran, Song: Shenbagame, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Yejaman, Song: Oru naalum unnai maravada, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Satya, Song: Valai osai, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Punnagai Mannan, Song: Enna saththam, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Chinna Gounder, Song: Mutthu mani maala, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Kudrat, Song: Hamein tumse pyaar, Language: Hindi
• Movie: Mera naam Joker, Song: Jeena yahaan, Language: Hindi
• Movie: Dil hi to hai, Song: Laaga chunari mein daag, Language: Hindi
3. Raga: Darbari Kanada
This rag is said to be an important one sung in the evening/night. It supposedly cures headache and asthma. My favourite compositions in this raga:
• Movie: Mounam Sammadham, Song: Kalyana thenila, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Arangetra Velai, Song: Aahaaya Vennilave, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Sathi Leelavathi, Song: Marugo Marugo, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Karna, Song: Malare Mounama, Language: Tamil
• Since I grew up listening to a lot of Tamil songs, I am not aware of compositions in Hindi. There will be several wonderful ones and I will try and post some when I find them
4. Raga: Kaapi
This rag is derived from Raga Karaharapriya and is said to induce devotion and sometimes pathos. To me, it is always associated with lullabies. It calms you down instantly and makes you want to descend into a silent slumber. It cures issues relating to depression, anxiety and is also said to reduce absent mindedness. My favourite compositions in this raga:
• Song: Enna thavam seidhanai, Language: Tamil, Genre: Devotional
• Song: Jagadhodharana, Language: Kannada, Genre: Devotional
• Movie: Priya, Song: Hey! Paadal Ondru, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Roja, Song: Kadhal Rojave, Language: Tamil
5. Raga: Kedar
This rag is named after Lord Shiva and is one of my most favourite raga for its intricacy. Kedar is sung in the night and helps easing headaches, cold, cough and asthma. Compositions in this raga:
• Movie: Karnan, Song: En uyir thozhi, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Nayagan, Song: Nee oru kadhal sangeetham, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Indira, Song: Nila Kaaygirathu, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Ek Musafir Ek Hasina, Song: Aap yun hi agar humse, Language: Hindi
• Movie: Guddi, Song: Hum ko man ki shakthi, Language: Hindi
6. Raga: Madhuvanthi
This one is my MOST favourite rag! Intoxicates me every single time I listen to it. It is a romantic raga An early evening raga, and is sung between 4 and 8pm. Madhuvanthi is said to heal piles. A few compositions in this raga:
• Movie: Kanda naal mudhal, Song: Kanda naal mudhal, Language: Tamil. Being a devotional song, you can listen to the classical version sung by several Indian classical vocalists
• Movie: Rosapoo ravikkaikaari, Song: Ennulil engo, Language: Tamil
Found only 2!! Maybe it is because I listen to a lot of this raga sung by the classical vocalists – the purest form!
7. Raga: Nat Bhairav
This is another favourite of mine as my Guru, Pt. Sri. Vishwanath Nakod , has composed a beautiful Surdas bhajan in this rag. I’m hoping to record it and upload it soon. A morning raga, Nat Bhairav is said to cure indigestion, headache and also help those with psychological disorders.
• Movie: Sathi Leelavathi, Song: Rajanodu rani, Language: Tamil
• Check out the Hindustani compositions online!
8. Raga: Puriya Dhanashree
Since this rag is sung at the time of transition from afternoon to evening, it is also called the Sandhiprakash raga. It creates an intense mood be it fear, compassion or romance. Puriya Dhanashree is said to help those who are anaemic, prevents acidity and also evokes a stable state of mind.
• Movie: Rangeela, Song: Hai Rama, Language: Hindi
• Movie: Ninaivellam Nithya, Song: Rojavai thaalaatum, Language: Tamil
There are umpteen ragas to choose from and each has its own magic. I’ve penned about just a few. Go on and explore this wonderful world!
My mom who loves me to bits (whose mom doesn’t!? Duh!), had to ‘throw a bomb’ at me after a few months. “Krithika, you’re a girl. You cannot dance forever; you will get married, have children…” which indirectly meant I’d become FAT and that dance won’t look good! “So it’s going to be only music for you from now on”. I felt let down (whatever that meant to a 5 year old). But I supposedly had a natural talent and picked up quite fast. It seems when I was 2, I’d run out while my mom was at her artistic best (rangoli drawing) and sing loudly which could be heard in my neighbouring flat too. An uncle would call out to his wife and say that the apartment’s Lata Mangeshkar was there and that she should come and listen to me!!! Wow! Too much! But when my mom told me this, I finally decided to put my heart into it. Not that I practiced, but I managed to attend classes regularly and also tried to be nice with Daffy; the only pet I ever went close to (The only other pet I’ve petted is my friend’s – Scooby boy, the simple and laid back lab. This happened when I was like 17!!).
All this history is to acknowledge my humble step towards understanding and most importantly enjoying music. Since my father is deaf and mute, my mom was always fearful that I’d be born that way. But the person above who is directing us all, decided to send me down normally and my mom was not going to let me away like that. I was a prized possession and she always said that God gave me this talent to compensate for what my dad didn’t have. I feel so emotional when my father places his hands on my vocal chords to ‘feel’ my voice. But the pride in his eyes is heart warming indeed!
So yes, as usual I digress quite a bit but I’ll try to come back to what I am meaning to write. Music – tough to define what it is but I can definitely write about what it does to me. It is a panacea of sorts. When I am happy, I always listen to Rahman; when sad it has to be Ilayaraja’s classics and when contemplative, it has to be a soothing Rag. I generally listen to Ustad Rashid Khan ‘cause his voice does something to me. My husband’s slowly introducing me to western music – country, hard rock and so on. Even that kind of music for sure has a positive effect.
Music gifted me with the best of friends, a music team in which I found some talented, grounded, knowledgeable brothers and sisters, the best teachers and even my life partner. It was because of the music in me that my better half decided to take the plunge! And now, my broken leg is healing only because of the hours of music running in my ears and calming me down.
So, why this blog now? I was reading this month’s issue of Reader’s Digest (HK) which had an article on music’s healing powers and I realised that Ayurveda mentions of music therapy and how several Indian classical ragas have medicinal benefits. Thanks to time – which came to me for free ;), I decided to pick some of my favourite ragas which I listen to and sing often. I will try to provide some links of songs under the ragas and also what they help in curing.
Before I begin, I’d like to make sure that I cannot validate if they really cure diseases per say, but it definitely alleviates one’s mood Also, I am familiar with Tamil movie songs more than any other language; Hindi comes next. So, the following list will feature these 2 languages. Now that I listen to Malayalam songs, I must say that the movie songs in Malayalam are highly classical based and extremely beautiful compositions. You can find raga based film songs in practically every Indian language you want. Hence this is just a nibble of this and that.
1. Raga: Ahir Bhairav (Chakravaka in Carnatic)
This rag is sung in the morning between 6 and 9am. It is said to cure issues relating to indigestion and hypertension. My most favourite compositions in this raga:
• Movie: Muthu, Song: Vidugathaya, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Karnan, Song: Ullathil nalla ullam, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Keladi Kanmani, Song: Nee paadhi naan paadhi, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, Song: Albela Sajan, Language: Hindi
• Movie: Morning Raga, Song: Pibare Ramarasam
• Movie: Mandhira Punnagai, Song: Enna Kuraiyo, Language: Tamil
2. Raga: Sindhu Bhairavi (Bhairavi in Hindustani)
This rag is chosen as a concluding rag in most concerts. It is said to cure issues relating to sinuses, also helps in bringing in calmness to the mind. In short, it denotes peace and tranquillity. My favourite compositions in this raga:
• The first song which comes to mind is Mile Sur Mere Tumhara, the famous song denoting India’s national integration and unity in diversity. It’s on YouTube! I like the original version obviously, so my recommendation would be the original
• Movie: Sindhu Bhairavi, Song: Naanoru Sindhu, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Simla Special, Song: Unakkenna mele nindrai, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Enga ooru paatukkaran, Song: Shenbagame, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Yejaman, Song: Oru naalum unnai maravada, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Satya, Song: Valai osai, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Punnagai Mannan, Song: Enna saththam, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Chinna Gounder, Song: Mutthu mani maala, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Kudrat, Song: Hamein tumse pyaar, Language: Hindi
• Movie: Mera naam Joker, Song: Jeena yahaan, Language: Hindi
• Movie: Dil hi to hai, Song: Laaga chunari mein daag, Language: Hindi
3. Raga: Darbari Kanada
This rag is said to be an important one sung in the evening/night. It supposedly cures headache and asthma. My favourite compositions in this raga:
• Movie: Mounam Sammadham, Song: Kalyana thenila, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Arangetra Velai, Song: Aahaaya Vennilave, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Sathi Leelavathi, Song: Marugo Marugo, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Karna, Song: Malare Mounama, Language: Tamil
• Since I grew up listening to a lot of Tamil songs, I am not aware of compositions in Hindi. There will be several wonderful ones and I will try and post some when I find them
4. Raga: Kaapi
This rag is derived from Raga Karaharapriya and is said to induce devotion and sometimes pathos. To me, it is always associated with lullabies. It calms you down instantly and makes you want to descend into a silent slumber. It cures issues relating to depression, anxiety and is also said to reduce absent mindedness. My favourite compositions in this raga:
• Song: Enna thavam seidhanai, Language: Tamil, Genre: Devotional
• Song: Jagadhodharana, Language: Kannada, Genre: Devotional
• Movie: Priya, Song: Hey! Paadal Ondru, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Roja, Song: Kadhal Rojave, Language: Tamil
5. Raga: Kedar
This rag is named after Lord Shiva and is one of my most favourite raga for its intricacy. Kedar is sung in the night and helps easing headaches, cold, cough and asthma. Compositions in this raga:
• Movie: Karnan, Song: En uyir thozhi, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Nayagan, Song: Nee oru kadhal sangeetham, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Indira, Song: Nila Kaaygirathu, Language: Tamil
• Movie: Ek Musafir Ek Hasina, Song: Aap yun hi agar humse, Language: Hindi
• Movie: Guddi, Song: Hum ko man ki shakthi, Language: Hindi
6. Raga: Madhuvanthi
This one is my MOST favourite rag! Intoxicates me every single time I listen to it. It is a romantic raga An early evening raga, and is sung between 4 and 8pm. Madhuvanthi is said to heal piles. A few compositions in this raga:
• Movie: Kanda naal mudhal, Song: Kanda naal mudhal, Language: Tamil. Being a devotional song, you can listen to the classical version sung by several Indian classical vocalists
• Movie: Rosapoo ravikkaikaari, Song: Ennulil engo, Language: Tamil
Found only 2!! Maybe it is because I listen to a lot of this raga sung by the classical vocalists – the purest form!
7. Raga: Nat Bhairav
This is another favourite of mine as my Guru, Pt. Sri. Vishwanath Nakod , has composed a beautiful Surdas bhajan in this rag. I’m hoping to record it and upload it soon. A morning raga, Nat Bhairav is said to cure indigestion, headache and also help those with psychological disorders.
• Movie: Sathi Leelavathi, Song: Rajanodu rani, Language: Tamil
• Check out the Hindustani compositions online!
8. Raga: Puriya Dhanashree
Since this rag is sung at the time of transition from afternoon to evening, it is also called the Sandhiprakash raga. It creates an intense mood be it fear, compassion or romance. Puriya Dhanashree is said to help those who are anaemic, prevents acidity and also evokes a stable state of mind.
• Movie: Rangeela, Song: Hai Rama, Language: Hindi
• Movie: Ninaivellam Nithya, Song: Rojavai thaalaatum, Language: Tamil
There are umpteen ragas to choose from and each has its own magic. I’ve penned about just a few. Go on and explore this wonderful world!
Monday, March 19, 2012
Time for free!
We have all heard quotes and sayings about how not to take anything for granted in life and here I am, writing about just how I did ; not intentionally though. Moving to two countries in less than a year is no cakewalk but things went smoothly and in September, we moved to Hong Kong. Initially language looked like a huge menace but then I somehow got used to it.
When in Singapore, being unemployed was such a pain and I had so much time to kill. Thankfully in HK, I managed to find things to do, be employed and was enjoying all the free time I was getting. Being a homemaker, one generally does not realise how much work we do; starting from making a hot cup of coffee to making the bed before hitting the sack. Normal chores everyday but things we usually take for granted. Not that I am complaining about it, but I enjoy doing it. When you live in a clean home, you feel clean within. I also found so much happiness standing atop the marble slab and looking down from the 38th floor to take in the wonderful sight outside my window. A jump on top and back down – that’s all it took.
And then, 2 weeks back, it happened. I was extremely thrilled to have met friends from my hometown and speaking the local language itself was a pleasure all right! After a couple of hours of good food and drink, great conversation and generally a great time, we walked out to satisfy our sweet teeth (tooth for many?!) Bam! I’m down on my derriere with my ankle right under it! What a sight! The look on my husband’s face spelt – Drunk? Gosh no!
There was no looking back or rather there was no looking at how my ankle was ‘blooming’! Then, the usual story of being diagnosed with a multiple fracture and the wonderful news of being arrested for 6 weeks by a few sheets of plastic of Paris! I enjoy my free time all right, but here time was thrusting itself upon me saying, “I am for free, take me!”
I thought things which we get for free are never given up and freebees are always what we look out for. But two weeks into it, I am despising it. The 38th floor view has not vanished, but I can’t stand atop the slab anymore. I have to watch someone else do the cleaning and cooking. The clean home looks like a house now and I so feel unclean within. They say it’s like an extended holiday and I must put my feet up (literally!) and relax. Oh no! No more feet up please, and no more relaxing for me. I am so done. When I see the ladies head to the market, I feel jealous; when I see joggers and walkers on the running trail, I want to be there too. The’ things to do list’ gets longer only when you are NOT allowed to do anything! I can’t even go to the store to pick my favourite ice-cream.
Never gave a second thought to small pleasures of life. It just occurred and I enjoyed it. Now, this is all I yearn for. Even my writing looks rusty just like my back which has rested too long. Gosh! I can write so much better, but it’s all I can come up with. Dull, mundane, lifeless lines… But I can’t complain – one thing I can do with my feet up!
When in Singapore, being unemployed was such a pain and I had so much time to kill. Thankfully in HK, I managed to find things to do, be employed and was enjoying all the free time I was getting. Being a homemaker, one generally does not realise how much work we do; starting from making a hot cup of coffee to making the bed before hitting the sack. Normal chores everyday but things we usually take for granted. Not that I am complaining about it, but I enjoy doing it. When you live in a clean home, you feel clean within. I also found so much happiness standing atop the marble slab and looking down from the 38th floor to take in the wonderful sight outside my window. A jump on top and back down – that’s all it took.
And then, 2 weeks back, it happened. I was extremely thrilled to have met friends from my hometown and speaking the local language itself was a pleasure all right! After a couple of hours of good food and drink, great conversation and generally a great time, we walked out to satisfy our sweet teeth (tooth for many?!) Bam! I’m down on my derriere with my ankle right under it! What a sight! The look on my husband’s face spelt – Drunk? Gosh no!
There was no looking back or rather there was no looking at how my ankle was ‘blooming’! Then, the usual story of being diagnosed with a multiple fracture and the wonderful news of being arrested for 6 weeks by a few sheets of plastic of Paris! I enjoy my free time all right, but here time was thrusting itself upon me saying, “I am for free, take me!”
I thought things which we get for free are never given up and freebees are always what we look out for. But two weeks into it, I am despising it. The 38th floor view has not vanished, but I can’t stand atop the slab anymore. I have to watch someone else do the cleaning and cooking. The clean home looks like a house now and I so feel unclean within. They say it’s like an extended holiday and I must put my feet up (literally!) and relax. Oh no! No more feet up please, and no more relaxing for me. I am so done. When I see the ladies head to the market, I feel jealous; when I see joggers and walkers on the running trail, I want to be there too. The’ things to do list’ gets longer only when you are NOT allowed to do anything! I can’t even go to the store to pick my favourite ice-cream.
Never gave a second thought to small pleasures of life. It just occurred and I enjoyed it. Now, this is all I yearn for. Even my writing looks rusty just like my back which has rested too long. Gosh! I can write so much better, but it’s all I can come up with. Dull, mundane, lifeless lines… But I can’t complain – one thing I can do with my feet up!
Monday, July 18, 2011
Nila's daddy best-est!!
Not that I’m a conservative Indian in terms of wanting to watch movies with the protagonist running around trees, punching the antagonist and finally taking home his lady love; it’s just that it is much better than a movie with expletives in every single line and having to hear fellow viewers laugh just ‘cause the F word was used!
Such was my state when I watched ‘Delhi Belly’. I wouldn’t say I did not like the movie; I liked it in bits (Amir Khan’s item number for sure!). But having to hear people laugh just because someone swore and saw shit is a little annoying for me. I again re-iterate – I am not a conservative Indian movie viewer. I sure am up for a change; something which leaves me feeling happy at the end of it all. And I did end up watching such a movie – Deiva Thiirumagal.
The movie is a brilliant adaptation of ‘I am Sam’. As the director mentions, there is absolutely no similarity in terms of the story and it is completely Indian! One can relate to the storyline entirely and having watched ‘I am Sam’, not at one instance do I compare this version to the original.
Krishna, a borderline mentally challenged person, played brilliantly by Vikram, exudes all the qualities of the ‘best-est’ father in spite of his shortcomings. His wife Bhanu, a social worker, runs away from a wealthy home to fall in love with Krishna and mother his child. She unfortunately is chosen to go back to God, leaving behind her husband and the new born to fend for themselves.
Thanks to Krishna’s employer and other friends, little Nila grows up quite well. Trouble knocks first when she is admitted into school and she is unable to finish her homework etcetera. The correspondent of the school ends up being a mother figure to Nila, who actually turns out to be Nila’s kin. Nila is whisked away, leaving Krishna all alone.
How he gets his loved one back is the storyline of this movie and the ways and means used is what makes it an Indian story!
The choice of artistes could not have been better! Vikram as Krishna is utterly heart-warming whether he is being affectionate to his daughter or when he is around with his friends/colleagues. His timing of comedy is impeccable and is equally good when he gives us tears. My only issue was when he ran; it quite looked like what he was in Pithamagan!
Sarah, the little girl who portrayed Nila’s character is one girl anyone would want to take home and treasure! She has been made up very well whether it was the holy ash on her forehead or the clothes she wore. Her acting definitely was good and mature at several instances.
Anushka’s character as the lawyer was crisp and for once a female lead was not a mere bimbo. Her father, played by Y. G. Mahendran was a pleasant watch as well. The strained relationship between daughter and father improves, thanks to Krishna’s stay at their home.
Nasser, as the highly successful lawyer, M.S. Bhaskar as Krishna’s colleague and friend, Anushka’s friend who plays another lawyer and the guy (sorry, did not find his name) who is smitten by Anuskha’s friend, calling her ‘dear’ throughout – have all played their roles to perfection.
But for me, the real hero was Santhanam who played Vinod, another lawyer who works with Anushka. The timing of his comedy was faultless and for those who are tired of watching Vadivel getting beaten up and calling it comedy or Vivek letting fly punch dialogues with a message, Santhanam is a whiff of fresh air! Whether he calls Krishna, Mr. Sweater or is forced to act as though he is mentally retarded, to get away from trouble, he was just too good!
Nirav Shah as cinematographer has done a commendable job and our very own Ooty looked stunning. Music by G.V. Prakash, needless to say, was pleasing again. For me the stand out songs had to be ‘Aariro’ by Haricharan and ‘Vizhigalil oru Vaanavil’ by Sandhavi.
Overall, I’d give it a 4 on 5.
Such was my state when I watched ‘Delhi Belly’. I wouldn’t say I did not like the movie; I liked it in bits (Amir Khan’s item number for sure!). But having to hear people laugh just because someone swore and saw shit is a little annoying for me. I again re-iterate – I am not a conservative Indian movie viewer. I sure am up for a change; something which leaves me feeling happy at the end of it all. And I did end up watching such a movie – Deiva Thiirumagal.
The movie is a brilliant adaptation of ‘I am Sam’. As the director mentions, there is absolutely no similarity in terms of the story and it is completely Indian! One can relate to the storyline entirely and having watched ‘I am Sam’, not at one instance do I compare this version to the original.
Krishna, a borderline mentally challenged person, played brilliantly by Vikram, exudes all the qualities of the ‘best-est’ father in spite of his shortcomings. His wife Bhanu, a social worker, runs away from a wealthy home to fall in love with Krishna and mother his child. She unfortunately is chosen to go back to God, leaving behind her husband and the new born to fend for themselves.
Thanks to Krishna’s employer and other friends, little Nila grows up quite well. Trouble knocks first when she is admitted into school and she is unable to finish her homework etcetera. The correspondent of the school ends up being a mother figure to Nila, who actually turns out to be Nila’s kin. Nila is whisked away, leaving Krishna all alone.
How he gets his loved one back is the storyline of this movie and the ways and means used is what makes it an Indian story!
The choice of artistes could not have been better! Vikram as Krishna is utterly heart-warming whether he is being affectionate to his daughter or when he is around with his friends/colleagues. His timing of comedy is impeccable and is equally good when he gives us tears. My only issue was when he ran; it quite looked like what he was in Pithamagan!
Sarah, the little girl who portrayed Nila’s character is one girl anyone would want to take home and treasure! She has been made up very well whether it was the holy ash on her forehead or the clothes she wore. Her acting definitely was good and mature at several instances.
Anushka’s character as the lawyer was crisp and for once a female lead was not a mere bimbo. Her father, played by Y. G. Mahendran was a pleasant watch as well. The strained relationship between daughter and father improves, thanks to Krishna’s stay at their home.
Nasser, as the highly successful lawyer, M.S. Bhaskar as Krishna’s colleague and friend, Anushka’s friend who plays another lawyer and the guy (sorry, did not find his name) who is smitten by Anuskha’s friend, calling her ‘dear’ throughout – have all played their roles to perfection.
But for me, the real hero was Santhanam who played Vinod, another lawyer who works with Anushka. The timing of his comedy was faultless and for those who are tired of watching Vadivel getting beaten up and calling it comedy or Vivek letting fly punch dialogues with a message, Santhanam is a whiff of fresh air! Whether he calls Krishna, Mr. Sweater or is forced to act as though he is mentally retarded, to get away from trouble, he was just too good!
Nirav Shah as cinematographer has done a commendable job and our very own Ooty looked stunning. Music by G.V. Prakash, needless to say, was pleasing again. For me the stand out songs had to be ‘Aariro’ by Haricharan and ‘Vizhigalil oru Vaanavil’ by Sandhavi.
Overall, I’d give it a 4 on 5.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Can I pledge?
I received my passport when I was 16 years old. In India, a cop comes home to verify your address and only then hands over the passport to you. However, when he came home, I was not there and a note invited me to the area’s police station.
Not having committed any crime before, not having lost my mobile phone till then (Received my first mobile phone just a couple of months earlier, obviously my life came a close second compared to my phone, so there was no way of losing it!), thankfully not having to complain against any crime witnessed whatsoever – I’d never been to a police station. The only picture I had of a police station was like the ones I'd seen in movies. So expecting something like that, I responded to the invitation of the cop and went with my aunt.
After the verification, I was given my passport along with some sort of a sticker which had ‘Police Day’ printed on it. I looked at the cop and thanked him thinking it was some sort of a freebie (not that I was interested in getting a sticker). He gave me this weird grin and said, “When I came to your house, you weren’t there. Now you come during my working hours, how can you leave me empty handed? Pay for the sticker.”
I looked at my aunt, who without batting an eyelid, removed a 50 buck note and handed it over to the cop and dragged me out of the station. My first experience with bribing - corruption indirectly. An aspiring journalist that I was back then, I just couldn't keep quiet but thanks to my aunt who gave me ‘that’ look and I silently followed her. “First of all, we are coming to a place where women should not be going and now you want to argue? What if he did not give you the passport and marked you as a criminal or something?” My mind kept telling me she’s wrong but in my heart I did feel fear.
8 years later, now, I took my parents to the revamped passport office to apply for a new passport. The passport service, now being taken care of TCS is a boon for sure. No more middle-men, one has to book appointments in advance and at every stage, there are professionals to help you get your passport. My experience at the office in order to update my marital status was hassle free though the process took me 4 hours. The wait was worthwhile.
Coming to my experience when I took my parents was quite different. For those who are not net savvy, they queue up at the office and since only a fixed number is sent in to apply for their passports without prior appointment, the queue begins at an inhuman hour. People apparently come at 4 in the morning hoping to be the first ones to enter. My parents and I joined the queue at around 8 am which I thought was decent for a 9.30 am open, I was instantly proven wrong.
9.30 am arrived and all hell broke loose. The first 30 quickly walked in and someone who had been waiting since 6 am who was not one of the lucky ones obviously got angry and a huge fight followed. Somehow many others managed to get in claiming they came to check their forms, so on and so forth. This time around, I gave in to what I call corruption! I went to one of the concerned people and explained that my mom was ill and could not come again and stand in another long queue. Thanks to them for considering what I said, I managed to get passports for my parents on that day itself.
Sick with guilt that I resorted to something as cheap as giving my mom’s health a reason to get work done; I also felt in some way I was feeding corruption. I may have been truthful about the reason, but imagine if 4 other healthy people came with such claims and got their work done as well?
Why am I saying all this? When Anna Hazare started his anti-corruption fast, it got me all thinking. Hats off to this man for starting something which was long awaited; also to all those tens of thousands who have joined hands in pledging support. But before joining him in the noble cause, we must pledge not to give way to corruption and then fight against the same. Anna Hazare, I pledge my support, but give me time to change myself and then I am sure I will stand up against corruption.
Not having committed any crime before, not having lost my mobile phone till then (Received my first mobile phone just a couple of months earlier, obviously my life came a close second compared to my phone, so there was no way of losing it!), thankfully not having to complain against any crime witnessed whatsoever – I’d never been to a police station. The only picture I had of a police station was like the ones I'd seen in movies. So expecting something like that, I responded to the invitation of the cop and went with my aunt.
After the verification, I was given my passport along with some sort of a sticker which had ‘Police Day’ printed on it. I looked at the cop and thanked him thinking it was some sort of a freebie (not that I was interested in getting a sticker). He gave me this weird grin and said, “When I came to your house, you weren’t there. Now you come during my working hours, how can you leave me empty handed? Pay for the sticker.”
I looked at my aunt, who without batting an eyelid, removed a 50 buck note and handed it over to the cop and dragged me out of the station. My first experience with bribing - corruption indirectly. An aspiring journalist that I was back then, I just couldn't keep quiet but thanks to my aunt who gave me ‘that’ look and I silently followed her. “First of all, we are coming to a place where women should not be going and now you want to argue? What if he did not give you the passport and marked you as a criminal or something?” My mind kept telling me she’s wrong but in my heart I did feel fear.
8 years later, now, I took my parents to the revamped passport office to apply for a new passport. The passport service, now being taken care of TCS is a boon for sure. No more middle-men, one has to book appointments in advance and at every stage, there are professionals to help you get your passport. My experience at the office in order to update my marital status was hassle free though the process took me 4 hours. The wait was worthwhile.
Coming to my experience when I took my parents was quite different. For those who are not net savvy, they queue up at the office and since only a fixed number is sent in to apply for their passports without prior appointment, the queue begins at an inhuman hour. People apparently come at 4 in the morning hoping to be the first ones to enter. My parents and I joined the queue at around 8 am which I thought was decent for a 9.30 am open, I was instantly proven wrong.
9.30 am arrived and all hell broke loose. The first 30 quickly walked in and someone who had been waiting since 6 am who was not one of the lucky ones obviously got angry and a huge fight followed. Somehow many others managed to get in claiming they came to check their forms, so on and so forth. This time around, I gave in to what I call corruption! I went to one of the concerned people and explained that my mom was ill and could not come again and stand in another long queue. Thanks to them for considering what I said, I managed to get passports for my parents on that day itself.
Sick with guilt that I resorted to something as cheap as giving my mom’s health a reason to get work done; I also felt in some way I was feeding corruption. I may have been truthful about the reason, but imagine if 4 other healthy people came with such claims and got their work done as well?
Why am I saying all this? When Anna Hazare started his anti-corruption fast, it got me all thinking. Hats off to this man for starting something which was long awaited; also to all those tens of thousands who have joined hands in pledging support. But before joining him in the noble cause, we must pledge not to give way to corruption and then fight against the same. Anna Hazare, I pledge my support, but give me time to change myself and then I am sure I will stand up against corruption.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
B.A.L.I – Brilliant. Aesthetic. Laudable. Inviting
It was my first time in many ways; first long flight (though I flew from Cochin to Chennai just a couple of days earlier, a short one though, but thanks to my brother in law!), first trip abroad and of course my honeymoon. Laugh out Loud :)
We took a 5.5 hour break in Bangkok because my husband felt I should experience an international airport; check out the many duty free shops and so on. Though I don’t have much to pen about those hours, the Cream Factory’s ice cream was delicious to the power n!
We touched the island of Bali aka Denpasar Airport at about 2pm. I expected this cool breeze touching my face but I was welcomed by the ‘incense’ of cigarettes! I am not kidding! But then our guide gave us a very warm welcome with garlands of Firangi paani. He wanted to be called Mr. Putu; looked 50 something and I immediately took to liking him! Extremely professional and quick he was.
We drove to the Benoa Beach Villa and Spa located at Tanjung Benoa Nusa Dua. It’s a short drive from the airport, say about 20 minutes or so. Oh by the way, we got this deal from ‘makemytrip’ and a good one too! The 4 day 3 night stay included our flight tickets, stay at the hotel, breakfast and dinner, a one day sightseeing of Bali and a day where we could pick from a list. Don’t remember what it offered but we chose to go to a spa, quite but obviously!
The Beach Villa is outstanding to say the least. They have extremely well maintained rooms with a lovely swimming pool overlooking the beach. The beach; words fail to explain the relaxed atmosphere and the buzz created by the water sports enthusiasts alike! The in house restaurant has a decent spread/menu and my husband, a non-vegetarian, had more choice obviously! He raved about the traditional Balinese chicken with coconut sauce and I loved the dessert made from pineapples and spices!
Bali’s economy is primarily dependant on agriculture and tourism. They have no industries and hence no pollution, Mr. Putu claimed! They eat whatever they produce that suffices. To give you an example – Mr. Putu said the Balinese farmers produce first grade rice and use it for their own consumption. They also produce a second grade rice which they mainly use to export to Java.
The next day, our guide took us to the Batik Centre of Bali and it is a must stop. The place costs of having traditional Balinese batik prints both handmade and woven, the latter being more expensive. One can shop quite a bit here! From there we stopped a phenomenally expensive wood carver’s showroom! Beautiful carvings no doubt! They are again mostly exported. This reminds me of the book ‘Eat Pray Love’ I read after returning to India where the author mentions foreigners who come to Bali and stay for a long time make money by helping exporting such carvings and furniture.
Next we go the famous Kintamani volcano which is said to be active as yet. The last eruption took place in 1976. We stop here for lunch at a restaurant which overlooks the volcanic mountain and it sure is a sight to behold! Most of the table cloth was on our filled plates, courtesy the strong breeze, but I don’t think any of the diners minded! Again, being a vegetarian doesn’t help as I had only noodles to eat and of course a range of desserts from fried bananas to a black rice pudding!
From there we head to a garden growing spices and a variety of fruits! The most interesting experience of my trip was in this very garden. Atleast till that day I was not aware of something called the ‘Coffee Luwak’. Luwak is a monkey, a special monkey which picks and consumes the Arabica coffee beans. The next day, it excretes the same in the same form (as a whole bean!), which is later washed, dried, roasted and ground to make a tasty coffee powder. One cup of it cost us $5 for all the pain they take in collecting the s&*$ of the monkey!!! This whole procedure may sound unpleasant but the taste of the coffee is far from it!
We then stopped at a market in Ubud which also houses a Balinese palace. Nothing out of ordinary to speak of; lot of junk jewellery made from silver, Balinese sarongs, scarves and so on. If I have to mention something special then it must be the exclusive bead store with a creative collection of original gem stones and other beaded jewellery. I spent most of my time there.
Now comes the thrilling part – water sports! I am one of those with an extremely less dose of the adrenaline hormone, much to the chagrin of my husband. We went to this place called the ‘Pandawa Water Sports’ and we tried the banana boat, flying fish and donnut boat. The banana boat is common, so I am not explaining what it is. The flying fish is apparently a specialty in Bali. A stingray like boat is shaped for two people to lie down amidst tubes and another guy accompanies us. He literally stands upright on that boat! Check pictures of Google as my explanation maybe inadequate. Frankly, I loved this one. The ‘flying fish’ is tied to another motor boat and the latter takes off at great speed. It later twists and turns and the aiding wind makes our ‘fish fly’, literally!
The ‘donnut boat’ as described by the name is a donut shaped boat and we are made to sit on it. Again, it is tied to another speeding boat and we do a 360 degree turn in the sea. But that was all I could take. I played a spoilsport by not throwing myself into water during the banana boat so my husband had to redo it the following day.
The following day was a full moon day and apparently that day was all the more special for Hindus, just like in India. So most water sports clubs were closed and we surprisingly found the one at our beach open. It was run by non-Hindus and so I chose to paraglide while my husband had another dose of the flying fish. He badly wanted to sea dive and watch the underwater creatures but it is said that those catching a flight on the same day are not allowed.
Check this link to know why:
I then got a temporary tattoo done! I badly want to get a permanent one done, so just to please myself momentarily, I settle down for the temporary one.
Leaving is not so difficult but not so easy either! I was longing to see my mom and close friends so I look forward but then the culture of Bali is so similar to ours (India) along with this really laid back attitude which makes you want to stay longer. Overall, the deal by makemytrip was good, our guide is definitely recommended and my memories just bring me happiness!
Bali is known for its night life but somehow I was not up to it. That maybe something I genuinely missed out on but that’s ok. Once I got back, I read ‘Eat Pray Love’ and learnt a lot more things about Bali. I am planning to pen another blog particularly on the similarities between the Balinese culture and the Hindu culture in India. This may take time because I have to remember what all my guide told me and right now it’s all messed up :)
We took a 5.5 hour break in Bangkok because my husband felt I should experience an international airport; check out the many duty free shops and so on. Though I don’t have much to pen about those hours, the Cream Factory’s ice cream was delicious to the power n!
We touched the island of Bali aka Denpasar Airport at about 2pm. I expected this cool breeze touching my face but I was welcomed by the ‘incense’ of cigarettes! I am not kidding! But then our guide gave us a very warm welcome with garlands of Firangi paani. He wanted to be called Mr. Putu; looked 50 something and I immediately took to liking him! Extremely professional and quick he was.
We drove to the Benoa Beach Villa and Spa located at Tanjung Benoa Nusa Dua. It’s a short drive from the airport, say about 20 minutes or so. Oh by the way, we got this deal from ‘makemytrip’ and a good one too! The 4 day 3 night stay included our flight tickets, stay at the hotel, breakfast and dinner, a one day sightseeing of Bali and a day where we could pick from a list. Don’t remember what it offered but we chose to go to a spa, quite but obviously!
The Beach Villa is outstanding to say the least. They have extremely well maintained rooms with a lovely swimming pool overlooking the beach. The beach; words fail to explain the relaxed atmosphere and the buzz created by the water sports enthusiasts alike! The in house restaurant has a decent spread/menu and my husband, a non-vegetarian, had more choice obviously! He raved about the traditional Balinese chicken with coconut sauce and I loved the dessert made from pineapples and spices!
Bali’s economy is primarily dependant on agriculture and tourism. They have no industries and hence no pollution, Mr. Putu claimed! They eat whatever they produce that suffices. To give you an example – Mr. Putu said the Balinese farmers produce first grade rice and use it for their own consumption. They also produce a second grade rice which they mainly use to export to Java.
The next day, our guide took us to the Batik Centre of Bali and it is a must stop. The place costs of having traditional Balinese batik prints both handmade and woven, the latter being more expensive. One can shop quite a bit here! From there we stopped a phenomenally expensive wood carver’s showroom! Beautiful carvings no doubt! They are again mostly exported. This reminds me of the book ‘Eat Pray Love’ I read after returning to India where the author mentions foreigners who come to Bali and stay for a long time make money by helping exporting such carvings and furniture.
Next we go the famous Kintamani volcano which is said to be active as yet. The last eruption took place in 1976. We stop here for lunch at a restaurant which overlooks the volcanic mountain and it sure is a sight to behold! Most of the table cloth was on our filled plates, courtesy the strong breeze, but I don’t think any of the diners minded! Again, being a vegetarian doesn’t help as I had only noodles to eat and of course a range of desserts from fried bananas to a black rice pudding!
From there we head to a garden growing spices and a variety of fruits! The most interesting experience of my trip was in this very garden. Atleast till that day I was not aware of something called the ‘Coffee Luwak’. Luwak is a monkey, a special monkey which picks and consumes the Arabica coffee beans. The next day, it excretes the same in the same form (as a whole bean!), which is later washed, dried, roasted and ground to make a tasty coffee powder. One cup of it cost us $5 for all the pain they take in collecting the s&*$ of the monkey!!! This whole procedure may sound unpleasant but the taste of the coffee is far from it!
We then stopped at a market in Ubud which also houses a Balinese palace. Nothing out of ordinary to speak of; lot of junk jewellery made from silver, Balinese sarongs, scarves and so on. If I have to mention something special then it must be the exclusive bead store with a creative collection of original gem stones and other beaded jewellery. I spent most of my time there.
Now comes the thrilling part – water sports! I am one of those with an extremely less dose of the adrenaline hormone, much to the chagrin of my husband. We went to this place called the ‘Pandawa Water Sports’ and we tried the banana boat, flying fish and donnut boat. The banana boat is common, so I am not explaining what it is. The flying fish is apparently a specialty in Bali. A stingray like boat is shaped for two people to lie down amidst tubes and another guy accompanies us. He literally stands upright on that boat! Check pictures of Google as my explanation maybe inadequate. Frankly, I loved this one. The ‘flying fish’ is tied to another motor boat and the latter takes off at great speed. It later twists and turns and the aiding wind makes our ‘fish fly’, literally!
The ‘donnut boat’ as described by the name is a donut shaped boat and we are made to sit on it. Again, it is tied to another speeding boat and we do a 360 degree turn in the sea. But that was all I could take. I played a spoilsport by not throwing myself into water during the banana boat so my husband had to redo it the following day.
The following day was a full moon day and apparently that day was all the more special for Hindus, just like in India. So most water sports clubs were closed and we surprisingly found the one at our beach open. It was run by non-Hindus and so I chose to paraglide while my husband had another dose of the flying fish. He badly wanted to sea dive and watch the underwater creatures but it is said that those catching a flight on the same day are not allowed.
Check this link to know why:
I then got a temporary tattoo done! I badly want to get a permanent one done, so just to please myself momentarily, I settle down for the temporary one.
Leaving is not so difficult but not so easy either! I was longing to see my mom and close friends so I look forward but then the culture of Bali is so similar to ours (India) along with this really laid back attitude which makes you want to stay longer. Overall, the deal by makemytrip was good, our guide is definitely recommended and my memories just bring me happiness!
Bali is known for its night life but somehow I was not up to it. That maybe something I genuinely missed out on but that’s ok. Once I got back, I read ‘Eat Pray Love’ and learnt a lot more things about Bali. I am planning to pen another blog particularly on the similarities between the Balinese culture and the Hindu culture in India. This may take time because I have to remember what all my guide told me and right now it’s all messed up :)
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