tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73630393405747657442024-03-19T03:12:31.686-07:00kkrajivLife's a roller-coaster ride - enjoy it.Rajivhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08169379784192051518noreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363039340574765744.post-283384898573710872017-03-06T05:15:00.002-08:002017-03-06T05:29:05.743-08:00Chennai Swimathon 2017The initiative was by Chennai Trekking Club and this was the 1st ever Swimathon that took place on Ottiambakkam Lake<b> </b>on 04 March 2017.<br />
Swimmers had come from all parts of India mainly - 20 states. Majority from Chennai and Bengaluru.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQl9YGm6lOmA40bhrjAxXk_wHyKq36Rz8KLjy6ZvkjYWbcYV_iuxhiG_jw40r7ZhWPo4HcuBXnujFOYtgmthSP4yEQf_9F0glg9sr5aAarwp0ryj3z5m2S4ct32q1tpiNY79P_OkOvr7c/s1600/Chennai+Swiamthon-Logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQl9YGm6lOmA40bhrjAxXk_wHyKq36Rz8KLjy6ZvkjYWbcYV_iuxhiG_jw40r7ZhWPo4HcuBXnujFOYtgmthSP4yEQf_9F0glg9sr5aAarwp0ryj3z5m2S4ct32q1tpiNY79P_OkOvr7c/s320/Chennai+Swiamthon-Logo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Ottiambakam Lake</b><br />
It is actually a quarry located near Sholinganallur / Medavakkam area in Chennai. It is a hidden jewel and a place to visit for nature lovers. The depth is approx 150 ft deep and length 300 meters. Can be easily accessible by road.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi4XnVbrw75AKCpfTn-pczfd3C5vibX8D9g0KOK5Ns1tE1A-OF9Z2hKs98v3bbCmdlFpu-luho-TC5DYarfErxIN2Ol7m_FEXSWCKo4cccLHdmyspquhhuvHPD9gz3z8-COrnN0imZV_M/s1600/end+to+end.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi4XnVbrw75AKCpfTn-pczfd3C5vibX8D9g0KOK5Ns1tE1A-OF9Z2hKs98v3bbCmdlFpu-luho-TC5DYarfErxIN2Ol7m_FEXSWCKo4cccLHdmyspquhhuvHPD9gz3z8-COrnN0imZV_M/s320/end+to+end.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ottiabakam lake - view from Top</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0FRT9IfZU5UPmB6YTlj3KTyzun8DR9azFEuuG31fR5f3wsMAEqz7_0z12vzDu2i9CTzxabLoiFNuxZEjA4AFCsZJRJy8NJmnFG586ANRjbNL9YuZyU3HaPc72BG92EdLxxp39SIa2JhI/s1600/view+from+the+top.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0FRT9IfZU5UPmB6YTlj3KTyzun8DR9azFEuuG31fR5f3wsMAEqz7_0z12vzDu2i9CTzxabLoiFNuxZEjA4AFCsZJRJy8NJmnFG586ANRjbNL9YuZyU3HaPc72BG92EdLxxp39SIa2JhI/s320/view+from+the+top.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ottiabakam Lake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Preparations </b><br />
Since i had registered for the 5k, i had to do a good amount of practice to stay fit and cover the distance within the stipulated time of 3 hours. Thanks to Rahul for his help as i was able to use the Club Swimming Pool in Begur area - SNN Raj Serenity. My training was from Monday to Friday during the office hours early morning to avoid crowd. I was the lucky one only to be in the pool and could practice for long hours. Practice sessions would vary from a 1km to 2kms swim. February month - i increased my distance to a 2km swim everyday within a time frame of 1:15 minutes.<br />
<br />
<b>The Final Day</b><br />
Drove to Chennai, met a couple of friends in Jain Abhishek in East Tambaram area. Slept early to avoid any exhaustion on the final day. Woke at 3:45 am, got ready and drove to the venue. The event was to start at 6 am so had to stick to the time. We were using torches to fill out the risk form as it was still dark. Got the Bib Nos:603 on my left shoulder. A quick briefing was done by the volunteers for the 5k, 10k and 15k Swimmers. A quick thank you session followed by a warm up exercise.<br />
<br />
<b>The 5km calculation </b><br />
In order to complete the 5km swim, i had to do 16 loops. One side - length was 150 meters, so to complete a loop - it was 300 mtrs. and last lap was of 200 mtrs to the finish line. The 5km swim had to be completed in a 3 hours slot in order to get the Finisher medal and T Shirt.<br />
<br />
<b> </b><br />
<b>The 1st 8 loop (distance 2.4 kms)</b><br />
3 batches had already left for the Swim - comprised of the 10 and 15k categories. It was finally the 5km batch to start of - off i was in the lake for the grand finale. Gosh - it was cold in the wee hours,,<br />
a few pushes to the start and was off to the other end of the lake. By the time i finished the 1st loop - it looked a herculean task to complete 16 loops. I planned to finish the 8 loops with a mininal break and less consumption of any type of fluids. Freestyle with more support from back kicks and arms movement to glide through the water. At the 3rd loop - i was more comfortable as there were less swimmers to bump into and was very calm and patient with my freestyle movement. I wanted to finish the 8 loops with a short span of time before the Sun was out. Took a break at 5th and 7th loop for bananas, chocolate and cup of water. I did panic in between as my left foot started to ache with cramps - i stopped my movement to avoid any further cramps and put more effort to the right foot. By the time i finished my 8 loops - i was confident to finish the 5km with the stipulated time of 3 hours.<br />
<br />
<b>9 to 16th </b><b>Loop (distance 2.4kms) </b><br />
The time taken to cover the loops now were more longer with breaks in between. I switched over to breaststroke for 2 loops to relax my leg movement. I had to peep out quite often to correct my course of direction. Improved on my breathing technique. The last 4 loops looked a distance to cover - exhausted and wanted to finish the race in a sprint. But i had to be calm as i had the biggest fear of getting cramps in my legs. I cooled down breaks, couple of chats with Ashish Tiwari- my old buddy from Flex who was a volunteer at the event. I was now close to finish the 16th loop, my timings were good and i knew had enough time to spare.<br />
<br />
<b>The last loop (distance 200 meters)</b><br />
When i took the final turn to complete the 200 meters - it was sheer excitement and exhilaration that i had never imagined - it was a moment of achievement and all the hard work put for past 2 months.<br />
Thankfully - my lungs , legs and arms supported all the way to the finish line. I finally called my Bib Nos. 603 to the volunteers just to confirm that i had finished all the 16.5 loops. -and i did.<br />
<br />
<b>Timings</b><br />
Start : 6:15 AM<br />
Finish : 8:43 AM<br />
Rank : 10th<br />
Total Swimmers in 5k category : 99 <br />
<b><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5-rX-wdfBlrtqB16l7IN6liUl72E4KUtRBbGEBj4agFRgDLBSN3b1tyM8Z3PdSDiIfJuu9x65PziIjT_46ppw30bkCyx0n_Y4AAG3gy7chuOPIL4-9jG8aacb9BvRcqgoW-65MRZA1p8/s1600/The+5k+Finisher.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5-rX-wdfBlrtqB16l7IN6liUl72E4KUtRBbGEBj4agFRgDLBSN3b1tyM8Z3PdSDiIfJuu9x65PziIjT_46ppw30bkCyx0n_Y4AAG3gy7chuOPIL4-9jG8aacb9BvRcqgoW-65MRZA1p8/s320/The+5k+Finisher.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finisher - 5k<b>m</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</b><br />
<br />
<br />
<b> </b><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXpokk_jhQeO6oCQk2fof_ixBsvPE9o1sLfkegQhbl2F5fG_9YOCpPGsCQi3D5-haMvMrujRQQnOis8VrufRM4Olz1l4iPNy5tMLHiUi3oDPxDxeMlgIqH7T6l6wNxutV8tkPNyTC_ADA/s1600/Me+with+Peter-Finisher.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXpokk_jhQeO6oCQk2fof_ixBsvPE9o1sLfkegQhbl2F5fG_9YOCpPGsCQi3D5-haMvMrujRQQnOis8VrufRM4Olz1l4iPNy5tMLHiUi3oDPxDxeMlgIqH7T6l6wNxutV8tkPNyTC_ADA/s320/Me+with+Peter-Finisher.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">with Peter (CTC)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisMdDNrmDknBXdMNfSakZ6QqxheRxrkrTEffs1VP-klnmLCleWOLw02MVJ79a7MP0wQ4dCEEnP1zOG_0ixKArrqWI1-D5sGsJnOmvRtryXHZaxGP32PyRH6X8_7loRSfdXQGE5dO4XwiY/s1600/Final+Victory.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisMdDNrmDknBXdMNfSakZ6QqxheRxrkrTEffs1VP-klnmLCleWOLw02MVJ79a7MP0wQ4dCEEnP1zOG_0ixKArrqWI1-D5sGsJnOmvRtryXHZaxGP32PyRH6X8_7loRSfdXQGE5dO4XwiY/s320/Final+Victory.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">moment to joy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<b>Big Thanks </b><br />
A big thanks to all Volunteers of CTC and sponsors. CTC has always been inspirational for the variety of events. Chennai - an amazing city and my family- 2 beautiful ladies - Soma and Siya who are always there to support for all the crazy stuff i keep doing ,,,,<br />
<br />
<i><b>"The Miracle isn't that i finished, it's that i had the courage to start." - John Bingham</b></i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Rajivhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08169379784192051518noreply@blogger.comChennai, Tamil Nadu, India13.0826802 80.27071840000007812.5876862 79.625271400000074 13.5776742 80.916165400000082tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363039340574765744.post-57867968240014987032016-07-31T02:39:00.000-07:002016-08-04T07:28:14.439-07:00Thonnur Swimathon 2016<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i>How did the idea of Thonnur Swimathon come to my mind</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: blue;">I got the 1st feeling of the an ideal Triathlon when i participated in the Olympic category for a Triathlon in Chennai hosted by Chennai Trekkers Club in Year 2015. After completing the event, i had more confidence in participating in a Triathlon and could even think for more. One of the runners introduced me to Thonnur Triathlon. Once i shifted to Bangalore, i was always on the lookout for the registrations to Thonnur Tri. </span></div>
<span style="color: blue;">
</span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEU1zd0zipxOrYIMUZra1M7lYS6O9m3jpBfcsK99o4ic_8ZhDvETQiBJXg5CQUZuGKwDvQVBbJ4UzlkhAGzr-Kg7ZF-DiYo8awI75prJcE64VQDNkywt7eD3o_XxyKfkzSrO4d83lDRws/s1600/Thonnur+Swimathon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEU1zd0zipxOrYIMUZra1M7lYS6O9m3jpBfcsK99o4ic_8ZhDvETQiBJXg5CQUZuGKwDvQVBbJ4UzlkhAGzr-Kg7ZF-DiYo8awI75prJcE64VQDNkywt7eD3o_XxyKfkzSrO4d83lDRws/s320/Thonnur+Swimathon.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thonnur Swimathon 2016</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i>Preparations</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: blue;">This was the 1st time ever - Enduro sports had organized a Swimathon prior to the main core Tri Thonnur. I began my Swimming preparations a month ago. Thanks to Rahul - who helped me on the preparations. With the access to a 30m Meter pool - it was a daunting task even to complete a kilometer in the pool. If i had to cover 2.5 kms in the pool, i would have to swim more than 2 hours and do more than 30 laps per session. I initially started swimming for 1 hour and increased my pace. Before the event, i gave 2 trials for a full 2 hour session. Weather was a hindrance almost every day - gloomy, dull and with the onset of monsoons. I did miss a few days on the practice but tried to keep up the pace and momentum.</span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt-TzTxxDtFLlCzNJoL5v-njTuvYRVWqcH996NDmutoF4fGjk3kepL3JQfYkktwVyF8cqbPhi8PwqGlD1CQo3qIpEvuYf49bDWWWC0xVRJtdedNzEu0BuQxtykxP0YHtB2JbscMLTkmuo/s1600/The+route_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt-TzTxxDtFLlCzNJoL5v-njTuvYRVWqcH996NDmutoF4fGjk3kepL3JQfYkktwVyF8cqbPhi8PwqGlD1CQo3qIpEvuYf49bDWWWC0xVRJtdedNzEu0BuQxtykxP0YHtB2JbscMLTkmuo/s320/The+route_n.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2.5 km route</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: blue;">I drove to Mysore a day in advance to avoid any chaos and confusion on the Karnataka bandh. The team had organized a stay at Hotel Siddharth, Mysore (25% discount) for Swimmers. I had the whole day in Mysore but couldn't do anything due to the bandh. The Hotel is famous for the "Filter Coffee" so i sat for a couple sessions. Had dinner early so that i could get good rest for the next days challenge. I guess i could not - the anxiety for the swim and not to miss the bus for the venue. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i>Thonnur Swimathon (July 31st, 2016) </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: blue;">Woke up at 3 am and got ready, the transport was arranged for all participants to go to the venue. Thonnur Lake is approx. 38 kms from Mysore - a 1 hour drive. I did not want to take the risk driving alone assuming i would get lost mid way. Most of the participants were sleeping while i was awake awaiting the destination. After a small climb, i could sense we were here. Yes, it was early morning and Lake Thonnur looked beautiful. It had a beautiful landscape. A cloudy and windy. Enduro Team was busy getting all the arrangements done, the buoys were in place etc. Announcement was done soon for Swimmers to get ready and briefing to be done. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: blue;">It was the 5k swimmers who take the charge followed by 2.5 k swimmers and 1k. There were nine buoys marked with flags - so for me to do the 2.5kms - i had to do 2 loops followed by a small loop of 500metres. There were colored flags at every buoy so that swimmers do not get lost or confused. At every loop - the Swimmer had to call out for their bib for their completion of the loop. The organizers had done a fantastic job on this - well planned. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: blue;">Once the signal was given for the 5k swimmers, i could sense my heartbeat - pounding like never before. Now, it was our turn to jump into the water. I wanted to start late as there were quite a few who wanted to rush / compete the race. My focus was to complete the 2.5km in a good time and get the experience of an open water swim. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZXtgzJUpD3hRUQ0il-ohg8iOgegtwOCyS5guJCdwJy-dG9Y1yFKm32U8DZfQ_aik-4pazN3-Y7E6NpnXq6rC6fsW8dAzthAt1DsA3IntR3yWVyVBMme_QIvHmw2bU6jIdUJ7PLGcMzQ/s1600/Lake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZXtgzJUpD3hRUQ0il-ohg8iOgegtwOCyS5guJCdwJy-dG9Y1yFKm32U8DZfQ_aik-4pazN3-Y7E6NpnXq6rC6fsW8dAzthAt1DsA3IntR3yWVyVBMme_QIvHmw2bU6jIdUJ7PLGcMzQ/s320/Lake.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: black;"><u>1st loop swim</u></span> - After the signal, i jumped into the water, there i was all alone testing my endurance, speed, agility, focus and destination. My 1st 200 meters was a clueless swim - drank a lot of water, fear of getting drowned, fear of getting cramps in my left leg, water penetrating in my Speedo goggles. I took hold at one of the buoys - relaxed for a while and tried to focus. I was all alone to decide whether to call for help of swim further. At a far distance - i could see the green flag - long way to go. I was in the water again in Freestyle mode to swim further. I was better this time as i gained momentum and covered a few meters. Once my head was up to see if i am in the right direction - i came to know that i had swam away from rest of the pack. I had to swim back again next to the buoys - i realized that for every 3/4 strokes - i had to look up and see if i am in the right direction. Once reaching the green flag - i had covered 300mts of swim and had to hit back to the bay for 1 loop completion. I was on a easy mode swimming back - more confident with a variation of Freestyle and breaststroke. On completing of the 1st loop - I did bump into a few swimmers and got a solid kick on my face - making my goggles lopsided. Waited for a while, put my goggles on and off i was on to complete my 1st loop. Called out for my bib number and decided to take a small break. i saw a few 1st timers do the same. Chatted for a while and was back again in the lake. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: blue;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: black;"><u>2nd loop swim</u></span> - The 2nd loop swim was a difficult one. Since the Sun was out in the morning, it was warmer and a bit windy. Every stroke seemed difficult - waves had gathered and the momentum was very slow. It was a herculean task now to swim. I changed my focus on breaststroke to go on with an easy pace and to avoid loss of energy. I had various thoughts in my mind but i was focused to complete the 2nd loop in a easy pace. Timing was not an issue and i knew once completing the 2nd loop, the balance 500 meters will be a smooth swim. I guess i took a longer swim this time as i was exhausted. Once reaching the bay, i took a small break , drank water and off again for the last lap.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><u><span style="color: black;">3rd loop swim</span> </u>- this was the last loop and i knew i was close to my destination. Now, i only had to cover half the swim of 500metres. I began at an easy pace and was very happy that i was towards completing my finish line. As i reached my destination towards the bay, i felt happy of all the hard work i had done. This was a moment to cherish.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: blue;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQi1mXasWHdUI7e1GtXvUJO80difE5MgkC81PEGK2nBX9aVWMqTwBDByXw7yXJd-n5xpHIcLvbFOVrw0lv2XYhMRkMLtefQ-Oh1fWym3ep4gLQpexkjlXDphuzNB8BkesbLWxLlpTE54Y/s1600/Me+at+the+finish+line.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQi1mXasWHdUI7e1GtXvUJO80difE5MgkC81PEGK2nBX9aVWMqTwBDByXw7yXJd-n5xpHIcLvbFOVrw0lv2XYhMRkMLtefQ-Oh1fWym3ep4gLQpexkjlXDphuzNB8BkesbLWxLlpTE54Y/s320/Me+at+the+finish+line.jpg" width="213" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: blue;">At the finish line. 2.5 kms in 1:22 mnts.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u>Timings</u> </b>- <span style="color: blue;">When i got the Split timings a day later, i could not believe for a moment. I swam better than my regular practice sessions. During my practice in a 30m meter pool in SNN Raj Serenity, in a 1 hour slot - i used to cover 900 mts. Before the Swim, i gave a try to complete a 2km mark just to check on my timings - i covered the 2km mark in 2 hours. As per the timings - i swam the 2km in 1hr 4mnts. - huge difference with an open swim. Overall - i swam the 2.5kms in 1:22:02 seconds.</span><br />
<br />
<b><u>Thanks - </u></b><span style="color: blue;">Special thanks to Enduro team who made the event a grand success and memorable. Without your support Ajit Thandur, Prajwal Prasad and Abhilash - the Swimathon would not have been possible. Excellent support on the Buoys, registration, timings, transport and logistics. Hats off....Special thanks to Rahul for helping me during practice sessions in SNNR Raj Serenity. And lastly, Soma and Siya who i always look up for my adventures.</span><br />
<br />
More Pics : https://goo.gl/photos/zND6qfW7AoF6NjeHA<br />
For more information : http://www.enduro.co.in/<br />
*********************** <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
Rajivhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08169379784192051518noreply@blogger.comTonnur, Karnataka 585304, India16.5111041 76.93369710000001816.5072981 76.928654600000016 16.5149101 76.938739600000019tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363039340574765744.post-86104018907333402152016-03-07T04:56:00.002-08:002016-03-15T01:55:19.046-07:00Amazing Thailand<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/>
<w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
<w:Word11KerningPairs/>
<w:CachedColBalance/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzhJ9TkRy5e0n6biv-RmCFQjsG-mSElEQ6QyLgQdI8aVUZlFs6o3BJNYS8XkoUe-kV2uQUcGltlfaPQsuVBniriSaGoACNpuW6dtkiXDjb10IV1VOnN5RLuAPoAcmGfvEE3j-8na-EcNk/s1600/Thailand.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzhJ9TkRy5e0n6biv-RmCFQjsG-mSElEQ6QyLgQdI8aVUZlFs6o3BJNYS8XkoUe-kV2uQUcGltlfaPQsuVBniriSaGoACNpuW6dtkiXDjb10IV1VOnN5RLuAPoAcmGfvEE3j-8na-EcNk/s320/Thailand.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As it was
our Daughter’s 1<sup>st</sup> birthday, we wanted to make it special and
memorable. Being living in South India past 13 years, we wanted to
explore the neighboring countries – being closer and affordable to travel. As
we had traveled as a couple to various places like US and bike trip to Sri
Lanka for 2 weeks on a shoestring budget, the travel to Thailand had to be
planned. Thailand summers are similar to Coastal India with a high humidity
level – April to May. But traveling during Summers is the best time – a clear
view of Blue waters and a perfect time for Scuba diving. It is also affordable
- food and accommodation is very good. Buying a flight ticket from Bangalore to
Bangkok or Bangalore to Delhi will be almost same. So if you plan a trip to
North India ex: Delhi – the traveling time to Delhi or Bangkok is the same.
Getting Visa is very easy as Thailand is a Mecca for tourists or you can get
Visa on arrival. </span></span><span style="color: blue;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Planning</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">We chose our
travel during summer, got the Visa’s, cash, hotel bookings etc. For my little
daughter Siya, it was 1 week of stock Nan Pro and Cerelac. We were off from
Chennai to Bangkok on an early morning Air Asia Flight. We had planned to cover
Bangkok , Krabi and Koh Phi Phi islands.</span></span></div>
<span style="color: blue;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: blue;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Bangkok- </span></b><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Checked in at St James Hotel, Sukhumvit.
I had one of my school friends living in Bangkok for many years – kudos to him
to arrange a 1 day full trip to Bangkok. We visited the Central World Shopping
Mall, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Asiatique Night Market, SIAM
Square, and did the River cruise. If one really loves shopping – Bangkok is the
best place (new designs at affordable price). There are a lot of flee markets
in Bangkok. Grabbing a meal for the day is never a problem – restaurants and
eating joints are at every corner street. My little daughter was in a bit shock
seeing new faces and new city – totally perplexed what was going on, but later
she got used to the travel. One of the most common mode of transport is the
Skytrain (BTS) , Auto Rickshaw (TukTuk), Subway, Express boat and Bike Taxis –
so getting around was never a problem. The river cruise is worth a visit – a
must to see. </span></span></div>
<span style="color: blue;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Bangkok -Ao Nang –Krabi</span></b><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">We took a
early morning flight from Bangkok to Krabi – a short 1 hour flight. The Krabi
Airport looked fantastic – lush greenery with hundreds of Palm trees around. Now,
we were happy as we left the Concrete Jungle amidst nature. We bargained for a
taxi and headed straight for the Hotel in Ao Nang. It was hot and humid, we had
carried a few bottles with us to prevent from De-hydration. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> Ao-Nang is
small town in Krabi Province. Ao-Nang is a base town from where you can head
towards Koh Phi Phi island and to Phuket. There are many small Islands around
and you can take a ferry or hire small boats. </span></span></div>
<span style="color: blue;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Our Hotel
Haleeva Sunshine is on the main road and not far from the beach. We took a
short nap as the day was hot. In the evening, we ventured out for local sigh
seeing and enquiries for the next day’s venture. The local food is worth to
taste.</span></span></div>
<span style="color: blue;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The next
day, we did a 1 day trip to all the Main Islands around Ao Nang. We hired a
small boat to take us around the main islands. As we left Ao – Nang beach – the
water was getting clear with a touch of blue color. I really can’t express how
beautiful the color of the water was – aquamarine blue. I wouldn’t have
imagined in my life to see beautiful water than this. The West Railey beach
look splendid – a perfect getaway. We also visited Chicken and Poda Island. I
ventured out with Snorkeling here – jumping in the ocean was a big fear, but
once you take the plunge – it’s an experience of a lifetime. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I spent a couple of hours snorkeling as the
experience was exhilarating. Even Siya was anxious to jump into the water, I guess
by now – she realized, we were on a holiday trip. It was time to head back to
Ao-Nang as it was mid-day and getting hotter. It was a 2 hour boat ride to the
Ao nang Beach. In the evening, we hired a Scooty to see the night life in Ao
Nang. It is easy to hire a scooter – cheap and affordable. In the evening, the
streets are full with local food and sweets.</span></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCFuQLMKy1X25QxKOcJiKi6p5y34t2P6aBZOS7qABIlKw4alwYZi4PugNY6q8aoEK58oR5WSayVJSqMpZ8uAK-ZpJ2QMMii3DJuVpVNfThyZ6TMjf1cZxCqhyhr5xnoHlV6JRo5Rnxpcs/s1600/Beach-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCFuQLMKy1X25QxKOcJiKi6p5y34t2P6aBZOS7qABIlKw4alwYZi4PugNY6q8aoEK58oR5WSayVJSqMpZ8uAK-ZpJ2QMMii3DJuVpVNfThyZ6TMjf1cZxCqhyhr5xnoHlV6JRo5Rnxpcs/s200/Beach-1.jpg" width="111" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Ao Nang beach - Rajiv & Siya</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: black;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Ao-Nang – Ko Phi Phi Islands</span></b></span>
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Early
morning, we took a ferry from Ao Nang beach to Ko Phi Phi Islands. It is a big
boat which can ferry 200 passengers and carries goods and food packets to the
main Islands. The ride was more than 3 hours but one take the advantage of
seeing all the islands we cross by. The water is absolutely fantastic – clear as
never seen before.</span></span></div>
<span style="color: blue;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">We reached
the Tonsai Bay – one of the main islands of Koh Phi Phi. As we reached Ko Phi
Phi Don –the vibe changed completely. At the edge of the dock, we could see
line of touts extending their package tours of the islands. And we had hundreds
of tourists flocking the islands. Most of the people were in party mood. Most
of the people were in shorts, flip flops, hat and goggles. The hotel staff
accompanied us to the Hotel – Phi Phi Andaman Legacy Resort. It’s a 20 minute
walk from the Deck to the hotel. What I really liked was – no motor vehicles
allowed on the main island. En- route to the hotel – you will find loads of
shops, travel agencies and Scuba diving centers.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXmOCgKX0jxeIKGWeeLzqabjK0wCdFlOqT71U5kcbz34gZesFxPaujQ99WF2BzXvvXweyBBiC7fAaO09n19iejFiPXRFRncIdM-cWXRI4BkwKg09lC6AKxD0aGuywIi5pRyIHUxqDhR-g/s1600/Snorkelling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="111" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXmOCgKX0jxeIKGWeeLzqabjK0wCdFlOqT71U5kcbz34gZesFxPaujQ99WF2BzXvvXweyBBiC7fAaO09n19iejFiPXRFRncIdM-cWXRI4BkwKg09lC6AKxD0aGuywIi5pRyIHUxqDhR-g/s200/Snorkelling.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snorkelling</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The resort
was beautiful as it was close to the beach. The facilities were the best one could
have and value for money. In the evening – we took a stroll of the islands. It’s
a Mecca for tourists – restaurants, bars, tattoo studios, Arts and Crafts etc. The
beach looked spectacular in the evening. Soma loved the Sea-food buffet we had
in the evening. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I had booked
a Refresher Program with the Padi Certified Scuba center – The Adventure Club. The
package included 2 dives with Full diving equipment with maximum of 60 minutes
per dive. It includes Lunch, Photographs taken during Diving etc </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Scuba Diving – Phi Phi Islands</span></b><br />
<span style="color: blue;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">We assembled
early morning at the center for a quick learning session before heading towards
the boat. Equipments & Gear, food were quickly transported to the boat so
that we could start early. We had a video presentation on board with the Safety
features & use of the sign language. It took us a while to understand all
this,, the excite started building and soon we had to wear the gear. </span></span></div>
<span style="color: blue;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Now, since I
have been Biking all my life – wearing a gear for a motorcycle ride would take
15 minutes, but getting on to a swimsuit , face mask, oxygen cylinders etc,
min, 25 minutes – by the time we were full geared – it looked like a gear of
100 kgs.. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVs1-F6tPQi7aapGto5OObIGMrq5GzW4Q1MA7Vt1CcHHt0Kk2KGPEE5nD5Z57RXOe4cGhKUCdmCKH-bArmNNAVkx_Wc6bbxGhZ_Yyp6h38e9J3V3Tg70bojD4PRsNWH3NfHQjkTVX9kvg/s1600/IMG_2240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVs1-F6tPQi7aapGto5OObIGMrq5GzW4Q1MA7Vt1CcHHt0Kk2KGPEE5nD5Z57RXOe4cGhKUCdmCKH-bArmNNAVkx_Wc6bbxGhZ_Yyp6h38e9J3V3Tg70bojD4PRsNWH3NfHQjkTVX9kvg/s200/IMG_2240.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1st Dive</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I was lucky
to have a Venezuelan scuba diver (the Spanish connection) really worked well.
My 1<sup>st</sup> jump was a big splash but once I was in the deep ocean – it was
calm and silent as never before. I soon looked back for my instructor – using the
sign language – we were now in Deep in the Ocean. With a variety of Sea Fishes
and Corals – it was a moment to cherish. It is out of the world experience. I
was comfortable at the moment and was heading to more depth. I could feel the
pressure in my hears and more silence. The Corals were like magic with hundreds
of shapes and sizes. It is said that – Koh Phi Phi has one of the best diving
places in the world – I truly believed it now. My instructor wanted to get the
best benefit today – as it was a clear day, we soon swam further where there
were more rocks. Wanted to see shoals of fish, sharks and tortoise. Marta soon
spotted a baby shark near a Coral, I just simply looked at it. We tried
spotting a Tortoise but failed to so. I was tired and gave a signal to Marta (instructor)
to head upwards to the boat. We were soon out of the deep blue Ocean. Off was
my mask and with exhilaration I said – Wow, this is absolutely fantastic. </span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></span><span style="color: blue;"></span>
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHRPxLCX4ZRpbHcQc5eLOPlyQFnUWaSOGqJ8c_97r1r9Gr5t5Ew9X8_VnloQjrrqWLwYmrIBIk83Kws6xW_qtAXZYoGrWxpbTdxaZUFf0x1jiG6XUbGx8A8zYjeMYhOGV-kAS7gJWOolU/s1600/IMG_2470.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHRPxLCX4ZRpbHcQc5eLOPlyQFnUWaSOGqJ8c_97r1r9Gr5t5Ew9X8_VnloQjrrqWLwYmrIBIk83Kws6xW_qtAXZYoGrWxpbTdxaZUFf0x1jiG6XUbGx8A8zYjeMYhOGV-kAS7gJWOolU/s200/IMG_2470.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deep Blue Ocean</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">We were 8
divers and had to wait for everybody to come out. Our boat was very nearby and
we soon left for the next destination. We had lunch and relaxed a bit. Our 2<sup>nd</sup>
dive was deeper touching to 50 meters and a new location. </span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The new location was very close to Maya Bay. Maya Bay is a very famous beach and came to popularity during the shooting of the film "The Beach" starring now Oscar Award winner Leonardo Di Caprio. The movie describes the location and it's white sandy beaches. While i stood standing at Maya Bay, Nature was it its best. One could not have described anything better than this. We soon headed for the diving location . It was Turquoise water with a different variety of fishes. I spotted the famous "Nemo" fish and had an experience of Big Tortoise swimming besides me. One of friends spotted a Shark but the time we reached, it swam away. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Soma and Siya had a wonderful day at the resort swimming by the Pool side. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Next day, we took a ferry back to Ao Nang and then to Bangkok.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">While we looked at our pictures smiling over the experiences we had, these are memories unforgettable. Now, we can say - Siya has the wee bit on adventure just like Mom and Dad.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">This was truly a well laid back adventure trip. Now, i have one of the activities - Scuba Diving off my Bucket list. I still look at cheap fares on Air Asia so that i can my next trip. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></span><span style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMpsV7Ekm-2nU9dsZ7KS_z-hQQ3bSh-KNXZGBSr3kPCnqJZduVw_9atNsc-LFzHYyPHeLVxJRVg7frz6dDJrthUvGn2x8pYe_-k4ZX1mdlUA8_ANCdWmg3lv0uWz2s8Q7UphUhfJDT2rA/s1600/Us.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="111" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMpsV7Ekm-2nU9dsZ7KS_z-hQQ3bSh-KNXZGBSr3kPCnqJZduVw_9atNsc-LFzHYyPHeLVxJRVg7frz6dDJrthUvGn2x8pYe_-k4ZX1mdlUA8_ANCdWmg3lv0uWz2s8Q7UphUhfJDT2rA/s200/Us.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soma, Siya & Rajiv - Ko Phi Phi Don beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHkTF_SvpBhAc2xAaiSUaa7EEZJmqV__BRJXuuxUqqOoBHRjUiIvEFw6wlFUaOgz-RzjPy_7eu_0wzsMG2OWL8HEhCwz3b_UcbMaEWD18bthsNhW99QlTF0awFOPr7Pikn2gvZydCL6vg/s1600/Koh+Phi+Phi.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHkTF_SvpBhAc2xAaiSUaa7EEZJmqV__BRJXuuxUqqOoBHRjUiIvEFw6wlFUaOgz-RzjPy_7eu_0wzsMG2OWL8HEhCwz3b_UcbMaEWD18bthsNhW99QlTF0awFOPr7Pikn2gvZydCL6vg/s200/Koh+Phi+Phi.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Longtail boats - Ko Phi Phi beach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
For more Pics :<br />
https://picasaweb.google.com/103682859579406222674/AmazingThailand?authuser=0&feat=directlink<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Rajivhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08169379784192051518noreply@blogger.comThailand15.870032 100.992541000000070.21739799999999931 80.338244000000074 31.522666 121.64683800000007tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363039340574765744.post-28503568381018804202014-07-06T01:43:00.001-07:002014-07-06T01:50:28.840-07:00Bharath Marathon - Run for a Healthy Nation<div style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-00h6ct9Egdw/U5R7MUgZYhI/AAAAAAAAbRU/zRQDFhbtaR4/s1600/IMG_5819.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-00h6ct9Egdw/U5R7MUgZYhI/AAAAAAAAbRU/zRQDFhbtaR4/s1600/IMG_5819.JPG" height="251" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We were here</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 21px;">About Bharath Marathon</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 21px;">Country's one of the biggest Traditional and Professional MARATHON took place in Chennai, first time in india the professional marathon added a cause of creating "TOBACCO FREE INDIA", associated with Tamil Nadu marathon association and supported by Dept of Public Health (Dept of Health & Family Welfare).</span><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 21px;">RUN TO QUIT TOBACCO!</span><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 21px;">"RUN FOR A HEALTHY NATION"</span></span><br />
<i style="background-color: transparent; color: #333333; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 21px;"><br /></i>
<i style="background-color: transparent; color: #333333; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 21px;">Our New City - Chennai</i><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #333333; line-height: 21px;">I would have never thought in my life to relocate to Chennai. But wherever your work is - you gotta get use to the life. </span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #333333; line-height: 21px;">After a hibernation of 9 months until Siya was born , we thought to venture out something new in Chennai. </span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #333333; line-height: 21px;">Came through this site on Marathon - registered and started training. </span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #333333; line-height: 21px;">I had done a few runs in Bangalore - the Midnight Marathon, Sunfeast 10k etc - this was a similar run but in Summers. The Summers here is a experience of a life time. We thought of giving it a try. Running on the famous route near the Marina Beach is breathtaking.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: transparent;"><i>Practice Session</i></span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent;">While Soma practiced a few runs in the apartment Gym, i was full on regular at the Fastrack Gym in Selaiyur. My Coach - Prem - fitness freak and a cyclist was hell on to train me for the big day. I thought a couple of times to run in the evenings on the weekend - but the heat was so strong that it was unbearable. </span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent;">As this was a moderate 5km run - running on the treadmill was much easier. 5km on a normal track would be 6 to 7.5 kms on the treadmill. I had kept a target to finish my training in 10 days and slowly increase the pace, was of high fatty foods. </span></span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T8DMWl-gwu4/U5R8hVEyIFI/AAAAAAAAbR8/ZhL9Y_7ouok/s1600/IMG_5828.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T8DMWl-gwu4/U5R8hVEyIFI/AAAAAAAAbR8/ZhL9Y_7ouok/s1600/IMG_5828.JPG" height="214" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the venue</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /><span style="background-color: transparent;"><i>Marathon Day. (08th June,2014 - Labour Statue, Marina Beach - Chennai)</i></span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent;">We started from home at around 3am to reach early for the Marathon. </span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent;">This was the 1st time we had ever seen Chennai early morning. The Marina Beach was a fantastic venue. </span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent;">I was amazed to see the enthusiasm shared be fella folks,,,</span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">Banners were well put, Security in place, Drones, cameras, water bottles - very well organized. </span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent;">Chennai Police had superb security arrangements. The entire running area diverted - even public buses. </span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent;">The Half Marathon of 21 kms and Mini Marathon left early at 5am. The Corporate Challenge ( 5km) was most of the people had registered. We had small kids from various schools nearby Chennai who had come for the run. Lots of youngsters and Chennai locals for the run,,,</span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">We started sharp at 6 am, as i was increasing pace, i had to catch up with the timing and wanted to finish early. Soma was running pretty good, ever after maternity- her pace was really impressive. I had planned earlier not to stop until 4 kms - take only 2 breaks for water and the 5th km - at max speed. </span></span><br />
It was a moment to enjoy - fresh sea breeze, clean n tidy roads, runners in yellow T-shirt. Early morning citizens had come for a good cause to cheer the athletes,,<br />
<br />
After a turn - we had to head back to the Labour Statue - now, i could see signboards for 2 kms - more relieved as i had finished a good distance. As the destination was a bit close - i increased my pace to get the best timings. Soma was running good. As i reached the finish line - got a sigh of relief. Acknowledge myself for a good finish - the total distance covered was 5 kms in 33 minutes - WOW - that's an achievement.<br />
Soma finished the 5km at 50 mnts.<br />
<br />
The marathon soon concluded followed by closing ceremony. Had a heavy breakfast and collected the certificates. Superb Sunday and moments to Cherish.<br />
<br />
Bharath Marathon<br />
https://www.facebook.com/bharathmarathon<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UCjzGxayaW4/U5R89QCMIdI/AAAAAAAAbQw/KF2EGYJCbQQ/s1600/IMG_5833.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UCjzGxayaW4/U5R89QCMIdI/AAAAAAAAbQw/KF2EGYJCbQQ/s1600/IMG_5833.JPG" height="133" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-loq7Renq2eQ/U5R85v5BXVI/AAAAAAAAbQo/nhpquy4E_cE/s1600/IMG_5831.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-loq7Renq2eQ/U5R85v5BXVI/AAAAAAAAbQo/nhpquy4E_cE/s1600/IMG_5831.JPG" height="133" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<br /></div>
Rajivhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08169379784192051518noreply@blogger.comMarina Beach13.0499526 80.28240260000006912.9880766 80.20172160000007 13.111828599999999 80.363083600000067tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363039340574765744.post-77836489070530694312013-02-26T23:23:00.002-08:002013-02-26T23:23:43.744-08:00Special 26<div>
<strong> </strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH3uh5_GC4MLsS2y5RoPYyNFQJtVwHzMFYT30H7byXBtucSFUMx_zBMnVmDNQamLBv-L2PzEPMJnZ5sv22qUSfwcBrDkl7hwWv68SQiewic0BMxPo1NJiUG7FlF32cC7zgZ7MjRxj_xk4/s1600/special+26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH3uh5_GC4MLsS2y5RoPYyNFQJtVwHzMFYT30H7byXBtucSFUMx_zBMnVmDNQamLBv-L2PzEPMJnZ5sv22qUSfwcBrDkl7hwWv68SQiewic0BMxPo1NJiUG7FlF32cC7zgZ7MjRxj_xk4/s320/special+26.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<strong><span style="color: red;">Hindi Movie - Special 26</span></strong></div>
<div>
Impressed one-and-all with his gripping direction and storytelling. </div>
<div>
That film worked because of many reasons – a tight gripping screenplay,
an impeccable script, flawless performances, crisp editing (100
minutes).</div>
<div>
Based on true incidents, Akshay kumar, Anupam Kher, Manoj Bajpayee have done a terrific role.</div>
<div>
</div>
<span style="color: red;"><strong>Special 26 – Short Plot</strong></span>
<div>
Its about a gang of four 'fake' CBI officers – led by Ajay (Akshay Kumar) and <a href="http://www.movietalkies.com/movies/20323/pk" title="P.K">P.K</a>
Sharma (Anupam Kher). They conduct raids at the houses of corrupt
politicians and businessmen and keep all the supposedly 'seized' money
and jewellery for themselves. There is no particular reason why they do
this.Their acts do end up looking
like public service, considering that the so-called thieves are getting
into trouble. Yet, it is fun to watch these fake officers do their thing
and even more fun is to witness the reactions of those who are being
raided.</div>
<div>
<strong> </strong></div>
<div>
<span style="color: red;"><strong>Special 26 – Technical</strong></span>
</div>
<div>
The scenes have been brilliantly written –memorable moments
include the raids conducted in Delhi and Kolkata, the banter between
Anupam Kher and Akshay Kumar, Akshay's penultimate scene with Manoj
Bajpayee, Jimmy Sheirgill and Divya Dutta's chemistry among many more.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
I watched "Special 26" on a working Wednesday Morning - 10 AM Show,,,as the Cinepolis Bangalaore Morning Wednesday show is cheaper - i was overwhelmed to see a jam packed house. </div>
<div>
A movie not to be missed.</div>
<div>
</div>
Rajivhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08169379784192051518noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363039340574765744.post-71373344500400062382013-02-11T03:47:00.004-08:002013-02-11T03:47:41.560-08:00Corporate GovernanceCorporate Governance<br />
<br />
<br />
Tone at the Top (Leads to the right culture that fulfills the purpose of Corp. Governance)<br />
<br />
• Governance philosophy, Trusteeship, Transparency, empowerment and accountability, control & ethical corporate citizenship<br />
<br />
<br />
Corporate Ethics<br />
<br />
• Better communication leads to better life<br />
<br />
• High Ethics means success<br />
<br />
• Environmentally aware in all we do<br />
<br />
• Our people build the future<br />
<br />
• No tolerance on corruption<br />
<br />
• We and Our Partners<br />
<br />
• Avoidance of conflict of Interest<br />
<br />
• Transparency and auditability<br />
<br />
• Protection of Confidential information<br />
<br />
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)<br />
<br />
• Disaster Relief (volunteer) , Donate on natural calamities, <br />
<br />
• Environmental, Economical, Social – what do companies do?<br />
<br />
• Health safety management systems.<br />
<br />
• Education and voluntary work for the society<br />
<br />
Whistleblower policy<br />
<br />
• Open door policy – access to Business Heads / functions<br />
<br />
• Forms available on intranet / can log complain to anonymous mail or call<br />
<br />
• Awareness sessions and town hall conducted on regular basis.<br />
<br />
• Anti-corruption handbook on the intranetRajivhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08169379784192051518noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363039340574765744.post-51733575131889016202012-07-16T20:27:00.001-07:002012-07-16T20:27:21.180-07:00Cycling the 70km Bangalore Harohalli route<br />
<div style="color: red;">
<b>Route : Bangalore - Nisarga Layout - Harohalli - Kanakpura - Bangalore</b></div>
<br />
<b>Preparations</b><br />
After digging into many articles for some of the best cycling routes in Bangalore - i preferred doing the Bangalore - Harohalli route with close proximity to my house in Banerghatta road. I had plans to do the Bangalore Mysore route one way and back on the Volvo, but i guess that was too adventurous and tasking - 160 km - by gosh,,,<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglETr6pdF7Yud_mhnBpPIvHtlvl84MALKB4V5m5udhbjcRJ_dqbE0-CGZ9UUExkP9m2HNq9fTWofF1mUXZ8CDdCsr_WoYrj6weQhHghr2P0LSEG4Km9oog5bNUm-SU2W_HV7xmw-f3oAI/s1600/Rajiv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglETr6pdF7Yud_mhnBpPIvHtlvl84MALKB4V5m5udhbjcRJ_dqbE0-CGZ9UUExkP9m2HNq9fTWofF1mUXZ8CDdCsr_WoYrj6weQhHghr2P0LSEG4Km9oog5bNUm-SU2W_HV7xmw-f3oAI/s200/Rajiv.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me on the Trek 3700</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I often cycle early in the morning at my home in Patna - Trek 3700. I knew if i had to do any of the routes in Bangalore -the distances would be long.<br />
<br />
Once i selected this route - it was time to get a cycle on rent. I checked on RR Cycles - Madiwala - if they had one. RR Cycles in Madiwala do give cycles on rent. I managed to get a Trek 3700. <br />
<br />
<b>The ride</b><br />
<div style="color: blue;">
<i>Bangalore-Harohalli. </i></div>
As Soma left early morning for office , i was off solo en route to Nisarga Layout at 8:45 AM. The initial 12 kms from Gottigere via Banerghatta National Park was crazy. Hell lot of morning traffic. <br />
Once i took the right turn to Nisarga Layout which was another 2 kms. - riding was fun now with no traffic. Nisarga Layout is pretty big and planned - i took a stop here for a quick breakfast. As i was solo - had to make sure that i was on the right track. I avoided doing it from Anekal to Nisarga Layout being too lengthy.<br />
Once i crossed Nisarga layout - the road was bad and heading towards a downhill. Past a few junctions to the right - came a pucca road - which was much better. I had never imagined that the outskirts of Bangalore - road and countryside was beautiful. With a perfect weather - i just felt that i had the extra energy to ride ahead. I guess - as i read in one of the articles - this stretch is one of the best to ride. I had to come over a few uphills which was really taxing and tiring but was worth it. I was now soon on the Banerghatta Zoo corridor. I was the only person on this entire stretch riding and i feared of Elephants cross by,,,i did not stop for a break on this entire stretch,,,,<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvl0Vr8SoLLjoDOBylX19vIm5RHp0dx0iOqU-e_xaCpk17o3RQ5yg8MZA9TzFsHPyNzVD5tQlT19Tm5fFEtJL7pBtHYTKzM2oUUpY_MSEAnvpfy1Ch-dNxJLuJGEt4kc4Fe0qEK5r_4_s/s1600/Uphill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvl0Vr8SoLLjoDOBylX19vIm5RHp0dx0iOqU-e_xaCpk17o3RQ5yg8MZA9TzFsHPyNzVD5tQlT19Tm5fFEtJL7pBtHYTKzM2oUUpY_MSEAnvpfy1Ch-dNxJLuJGEt4kc4Fe0qEK5r_4_s/s320/Uphill.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Uphill - Blr-Harohalli route</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There is one particular stretch after the Banerghatta Zoo corridor which is a downhill - by gosh,,,had i not applied my breaks, i would be off the mountains in a deep pitch,,yes, it was very steep.Mind ya fellas- if you do Harohalli to Bangalore via Anekal - it's much more challenging as it has mostly uphill on the route.<br />
By 12:30 i was at the Harohalli junction. Took a break and asked locals for the way back to Bangalore.<br />
<div style="color: blue;">
<i> </i></div>
<div style="color: blue;">
<i>Harohalli-Kanakpura rd.-J.P.Nagar-Gottigere (Blr)</i></div>
This stretch was pretty good to ride but you had to keep in mind of the traffic. I had to keep a constant check to ride to my extreme left - in fact off the road. A few stretches is uphill and it really requires that extra energy to pull. As i was tired cycling more than 3 hours - i could feel the pain in the butt and the muscle pull. The milestone really helped as you could spot at every 2 kms. I took many breaks in between for water and tea. I spotted a few dhabas en route which looked tempting but did not stop,,,after doing this stretch for 25 kms. i almost reached Bangalore. Took a shortcut to JP Nagar - there was a 2 kms uphill which was a killer - i preferred to walk,,,i was near gottigere now.<br />
Before reaching home - i congratulated myself for doing this wonderful route of 75 kms. solo.<br />
Wow,,,,,<br />
<br />
<b>Important Info.</b><br />
<b>Bike - Trek 3700</b><br />
<b>Rent : 275 per day</b><br />
<b>RR Cycles - Madiwala - 0091 984479039 </b><br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWPyorHvsQJiS0-4PT6eQt0mQTkZJF0vTzIxGiRvhTlGuX-y5jj6O8mj9ruXus1pIxeynlUzNLNm4yFNQsuZM8jFTUKOchhB_2RLe-FUv7ghZF5ma5kcCpW1SPl8r-ZyO2eJ-pGJfgtgg/s1600/Bangalore+Harohalli+route.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWPyorHvsQJiS0-4PT6eQt0mQTkZJF0vTzIxGiRvhTlGuX-y5jj6O8mj9ruXus1pIxeynlUzNLNm4yFNQsuZM8jFTUKOchhB_2RLe-FUv7ghZF5ma5kcCpW1SPl8r-ZyO2eJ-pGJfgtgg/s320/Bangalore+Harohalli+route.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Route</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Rajivhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08169379784192051518noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363039340574765744.post-16409907209350810762012-07-11T03:49:00.000-07:002012-07-11T03:49:08.362-07:00JNU Mountaineering Club - old members meet in BangaloreWas it Rajesh Mall's sheer luck that he was on an NGO assignment in Bangalore for the past one month - or do i phrase it - has everyone been "Bangalored",,,<br />
<br />
As i was working in my hometown Patna - i did get the news of Rajesh's visit to Bangalore on an NGO assignment. Initially, he met Dhanalakshmi, Nitesh and Lokesh in MG road a few days ago. Rajesh soon left for field work in various parts of Karnataka.<br />
<br />
While i was at home in Bangalore - got the news that Rajesh will be visiting Bangalore once again. He stayed at my house for a day (6th July, 2012) and it was really great to meet him after after 6 years. It always a pleasure and delight when you meet your fella mountaineers from a long gap. And yes, i always read his blogs and got the news of his new adventures and new trekking routes.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpR1TsogB26QZP2BFBe8OxHIZ-dRjQUIJvOh5I5_B4LExfs484WR8CIXQaNT1fRrcNkTRo-7KzCcAblVQXjOyAmjLh662iWnbWmpS_FZSaY3NPzKbBF3Q3sTYVztJX-5DGRo-L-BX44l8/s1600/Picture+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpR1TsogB26QZP2BFBe8OxHIZ-dRjQUIJvOh5I5_B4LExfs484WR8CIXQaNT1fRrcNkTRo-7KzCcAblVQXjOyAmjLh662iWnbWmpS_FZSaY3NPzKbBF3Q3sTYVztJX-5DGRo-L-BX44l8/s320/Picture+002.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rajesh Mall, Saurabh Vikas, Nitesh Uniyal, Rajiv Kumar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Rajesh had made a plan that all JNUites, especially the trekkers should meet once and it has been ages.<br />
We all assembled at Nitesh's house at 9 for breakfast.- Saurabh Vikas (Periyar wala, Major Saab), Lokesh (Spanish, working with IBM.Blr), Nitesh (Spanish, Oracle), Rajiv (Spanish, Entrepreneur-Patna),,,<br />
It was a moment to capture - after so many years - mountaineers and trekkers meeting. Everyone was sharing their bit of experiences of the Trekking days,,,Desert Trek in the Thar, Rajesh and Nitesh's craziest trekking to Roopkund,,,mine to Vasuki Tal and Kedarnath,,,etc.<br />
<br />
I still recall the JNUMC days - when we used to go by 615 bus to Munirka to by our foodstocks for trekking. Our rafting at Shivpuri was just a mere Rs.50 for registration. Still people never came for rafting,,our camping gear and tents were just good enough to use, what we see today in high end stores like Wildcraft and Decathlon are luxury,,,<br />
Thanks to JNUMC and JNU,,,<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVw7ZXpeQm3A3u4PBgCrOJ3go8-e8OPhjowOXcwPTUdSw-ODRuyxAm09aK7yZO-2e913ksh_1A9vkScs34g6jH3BNA5y3PFmrDEJJvhBf_y6niwQWCMkXGra_lA49TWATnY0d64dEKleQ/s1600/Picture+006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVw7ZXpeQm3A3u4PBgCrOJ3go8-e8OPhjowOXcwPTUdSw-ODRuyxAm09aK7yZO-2e913ksh_1A9vkScs34g6jH3BNA5y3PFmrDEJJvhBf_y6niwQWCMkXGra_lA49TWATnY0d64dEKleQ/s320/Picture+006.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rajiv,Saurbah, Rajesh, Lokesh and Nitesh-Nitesh's house-Blr.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1bW3Q0kDan5xDoI7w3YXjn2-n23CG_-Mt2DY46LpEAciC-NMYFFhwpfxyCiThe-p58f53YgGFtWDVZ6gByo8bzvKdgMhuopJXh0QFsgvZim6hT5-69_LeyqO7mDEkCY2X50mtJs7C1cs/s1600/Picture+010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>We had a superb breakfast at Nitesh's house. (Thanks Nitesh) we soon departed after an hour as everyone had work,,,<br />
<br />
<br />Rajivhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08169379784192051518noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363039340574765744.post-64752863182105346232012-04-25T22:10:00.004-07:002012-04-25T22:10:54.941-07:00Trip to Valparai<b><span style="color: red;">About Valparai (from wikitravel)</span></b><br />
<style>
st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) }
</style><div style="text-align: justify;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwkMviDyzPjHwNAmtEBYXMUABjXO7XEPSpEGTvd4uCY6eAlapffIszn_zHGcN0Ih2e2T416oNNDoBr0_vqN_fOWQ-RdF2yQsP1wMO3ghkhbwaU65328IDBaw96Lw1kYfkm-xUhD6QvH-U/s1600/Tea+gardens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwkMviDyzPjHwNAmtEBYXMUABjXO7XEPSpEGTvd4uCY6eAlapffIszn_zHGcN0Ih2e2T416oNNDoBr0_vqN_fOWQ-RdF2yQsP1wMO3ghkhbwaU65328IDBaw96Lw1kYfkm-xUhD6QvH-U/s320/Tea+gardens.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Valparai</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
Valparai is a hill station located in the Coimbatore district of Tamilnadu. It is 104 km from Coimbatore and 64 km from Pollachi, 110 km from Ernakulam (Cochin) via Athirapally, Vazhachal, and Malakkapara. The pollution free heavenly land Valparai is located above 3500 feet from the sea level on the Anamalai mountain range. Valparai is not just a small town. It stands majestically with green spread mountains and forests all around. Valparai shares it's boundaries with Anamalai Tiger Reserve, Parambikulam Tiger Reserve, Eravikulam National Park and Vazhachal forest division. People are approachable and very friendly. This is one of the places that you shouldn't miss in your life.</div>
</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
After spending 6 years in Bangalore, i really wonder, how i missed on this place and was not in my itenarary for travel. Ahh - i read in one of the blogs before traveling here, Valparai is situated in the Anna Malai Tiger reserve - and the government had not encouraged Tourists to visit the place - the Tiger and human conflict. With the Eco Tourism boom - government is now liberal and have taken measures to restore Valparai and open up for Tourism. Not many has been written about Valparai - i am making my efforts to blog this for all those who really love nature, wildlife, tea estates, dams etc. </div>
</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<b><span style="color: red;">Our plan </span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
We had booked our train tickets about a month back to Coimbatore - but unfortunately, it was on waiting list.Thanks to Soma, my wife - who is very particular of travel to n fro. She had booked tickets on the Multi axle Volvo from Bangalore to Coimbatore. Note - as it was the long weekend break - Easter Holidays - the entire Bangalore junta is out for travel. Our plan was to take the Volvo from Bangalore to Coimbatore and back and hire a taxi for 3 day travel to Valparai.</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="color: red;">Travel </span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We reached the KPN bus stop at Bommanhalli - my gosh,,crowd was massive as everyone wanted to leave for their home and others on to different destinations. I guess everyone needed a break and with the temperatures soaring high in the city. The brand new multi axle Volvo bus is amazing to travel - comfy and spacious. By the time we woke up - we had reached in the early hours (5ish) in Coimbatore bus stand. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="color: orange;">Day 1 - 06th April, 2012</span></i><br />
<em>Bangalore-Coimbatore-Valparai</em></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
We had done prior bookings with one of best travel agents in Coimbatore. Rajesh - our cab driver was waiting for us. We had a brand new Tata Indica. We soon left for Valparai to avoid the mad rush city traffic. Valparai to Coimbatore by road - is a 3 hour travel. We stopped for a chai cum diesel break after about an hour. Had a quick snack and headed for the ghats. As we crossed by Aaliyar Dam - we were soon ascending the ghats. As morning was fresh - we had less traffic and enjoyed the beautiful drive up the hills. We crossed the Monkey Falls - apparently no water - due to summers,,, and to Loam's view point. Ahh - whatta view. Amazing view to see the surrounding Western ghats and Pollachi town. After a 3 hour long drive - we reached Valparai town by 9:30. We had not done any hotel bookings, but had just reserved. our 1st try was Misty Creek - thru one of the riders in Mad Bulls. I guess - this was one of the best places to stay. Amazing view from the balcony, quiet place and a friendly atmosphere. A quick break and we were out again to explore the hills. Plaza restaurant is the best place to have all your meals. Rajesh - our cab driver had good information about Valaparai and had a small itenerary for us. He picked up a local friend from the city to catch on the latest updates of the small town,,,</div>
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
Murugan Festival: As we left the town, we saw a huge crowd gatthering,,we got the news - Murugan Festival. I guess we were lucky to be there. Unebeleivable to the eyes - small kids and men - had piercing done in their mouth and back - they say - it is our beleif in the Murugan god - and this pain is to show our way of effection. Most surpirsing was - it was vey well organized - their piercing in the mouth or back did not any drop of blood. Soma could not take this sight et all and we left soon,,do check out on the pics.</div>
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
we visited Nirar Dam, Sholayar Dam, Number Parai - best views of Valparai & Balaji Temple. </div>
You will get information on the net about these places,,,but dont miss on them as it a must to visit.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikvUb8DhBZIRPxFcdL2m3xbw43v7UZCz92VjXiqleu0JQmBwJM-GkM4AcJrj8Mw4i8wCf2uPNj13iEfnwe29zo5i9cOz8iPcW_nw8n0JVAFfKgbkOI2MIVWYmxA9bVcXCupO7GX_ioiVk/s1600/view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikvUb8DhBZIRPxFcdL2m3xbw43v7UZCz92VjXiqleu0JQmBwJM-GkM4AcJrj8Mw4i8wCf2uPNj13iEfnwe29zo5i9cOz8iPcW_nw8n0JVAFfKgbkOI2MIVWYmxA9bVcXCupO7GX_ioiVk/s320/view.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">around Valparai</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
After a good 3 hour tourist visit of Valparai - we decided to take a break at Misty Creek. benny - Frank Benjamin - the owner of Misty Creek - helped us to gather more information about the places to see around. Very helpful. </div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
We left at 4pm for a small trek near Misty Creek resort. We did this trek for about 2 hours - unbeleivable experience. Trekking in the Tea gardens, getting an amazing view of the town and spending time at the waterfalls - nothing can beat this for a perfect vacation and enjoy nature. We called it a day with home food cooked at Misty Creek - paranthas and Chicken Curry.</div>
<br />
<br />
<i><span style="color: orange;">Day 2 - 07th April, 2012</span></i><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<em>Valparai-Shanti Tea Estate-Sholayar Dam</em></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
As we had covered most part of Valparai - Benny had advised us to visit one of the Tea Estates - where there could be a possibility to see Elephants. Shanti Tea Estate - this is a diversion enroute to Comibatore 22 kms. from Valaparai. We left early to avoid the incoming traffic from Coimbatore. The drive early morning was a bliss - fresh breeze. We spotted a wide variety of Birds, lucky to spot the endagered Lion Tailed macaque. </div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
Shanti Tea Estate - one of the biggest tea estates in the vicinity. As it was mid day, it was difficult to spot any elephants. Well, i wasnt keen to see more elephants , as we had watched in large numbers on our bike trip to Lanka. Anyways, the view was excellent. </div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
We took a tour of Sholayar Dam once again. This was my favourite place to vist - a big dam with lots of lush green vegetation. I am sure this place would be much beautiful during the monsoons. As it was noon - we had a quick lunch at the Plaza and headed back to Misty Creek.</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyLK93NMIlwN2wwVJGKXnBn-atIEyYxyiU4122Cpk0IuHCZ7CdHZahN8mqcHDCDoEbIRA-iQn_BQhD6u_OaYlrMV9I0PXx4ojhbYKeB55n8xb-FOs82JF21hxVu_ga58DXXOhc_A3fq7U/s1600/soma+and+me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyLK93NMIlwN2wwVJGKXnBn-atIEyYxyiU4122Cpk0IuHCZ7CdHZahN8mqcHDCDoEbIRA-iQn_BQhD6u_OaYlrMV9I0PXx4ojhbYKeB55n8xb-FOs82JF21hxVu_ga58DXXOhc_A3fq7U/s320/soma+and+me.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Shanti Tea Estate - Valparai</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
In the evening once again - we did a small trek to the Tea Gardens once again. We relaxed at the hotel as we had planned for a late night safari with Benny and a biker couple.</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
Night Safari</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
we left Misty Creek at 10pm for the night safari. Benny knew the place very well - administrators, wildlife, roads etc. Through his contacts - we were able to do the entire stretch of Sholayar Dam - gosh - it was superb in the night. Pretty scary though at times - elephants coming on the roads. Benny has shared with us some of his encounters with Elephants and the ruckus they create around. We spotted loads of Wildboar, porcupines, wild rabbits, rats ,,,unfortunately - no elephants. Benny was an expert on movements of Elephants in the vicinity,,,</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
We did the night safari for about 2 hours,,,as we could not get any luck on the Elephants, we left for Misty Creek. </div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<em><span style="color: orange;">Day 3 - 08th April, 2012</span></em></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<em>Valparai-Coimbatore-Bangalore</em></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
It was time for us to bid adieu to Valparai, we left early to avoid delays on boarding the bus at Coimbatore. </div>
Enroute we stopped at Aliyar Dam for a visit - pretty hot though as we had descended the ghats. Had a light meal - idlis with omlette near Aliyar Dam, took the bus to Bangalore at 3pm,,,back home once again.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: red;">More Information about Valaparai</span><br />
<br />
<strong>Places To See</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>Aliyar Dam</strong> - Aliyar Dam is a reservoir that is located 27 km away from Pollachi on the foothills of Valparai, in the Anamalai range of the <place w:st="on">Western Ghats</place>. The dam offers some ideal getaways including a park, an aquarium and a mini Theme-Park maintained by <strong>Tamilnadu Fisheries Corporation</strong>. It is an ideal picnic spot.<br />
<placename w:st="on"><strong>Monkey</strong></placename><strong> <placetype w:st="on">Falls</placetype> </strong>- <place w:st="on"><placename w:st="on">Monkey</placename> <placetype w:st="on">Falls</placetype></place> is located 29 km on the Pollachi-Valparai road. An entry fee of INR 15 per head must be paid at the check post located along Aliyar - <place w:st="on"><placename w:st="on">Monkey</placename> <placetype w:st="on">Falls</placetype></place>’ route. <br />
<strong>Loam's View Point</strong> – This is a beautiful view point from where you can see Aliyar Dam, the surrounding mountains of <place w:st="on">Western Ghats</place> and the Pollachi town. This is situated in 9th hairpin bend towards Valparai from Pollachi.<br />
<placename w:st="on"><strong>Tiger</strong></placename><strong> <placetype w:st="on">Valley</placetype> </strong>- From here you can see <place w:st="on">Upper Aliyar</place> reservoir.<br />
<strong>Balaji temple</strong> - Balaji temple is owned by the Peria Karamalai Tea Industries. It is situated in Karamalai, and is a very famous beautiful temple and is situated at a distance of 10 km from Valparai.<br />
<placename w:st="on"><strong>Chitti</strong></placename><strong> <placename w:st="on">Vinayagar</placename> <placetype w:st="on">Temple</placetype> </strong>- <place w:st="on"><placename w:st="on">Chitti</placename> <placename w:st="on">Vinayagar</placename> <placetype w:st="on">Temple</placetype></place> is owned by Jayshree Tea Industries, Sholayar. The temple is situated in a beautiful garden environment and is only 5 km from Valparai town.<br />
<place w:st="on"><placename w:st="on"><strong>Karamalai</strong></placename><strong> <placename w:st="on">Annai</placename> <placename w:st="on">Vellankanni</placename> <placetype w:st="on">Church</placetype></strong></place><strong> </strong>– This is a very famous Catholic Church. A festival takes place every year during September 8th. New church was built in the year 2003. This is a place to enjoy spiritual peaceful environment. Many people visit this Church daily. This is situated at a distance of 10 km from Valparai.<br />
<strong>Sholayar Dam </strong>- It is the second deepest dam of <place w:st="on">Asia</place>. It is situated at a distance of 20 km from Valparai. An active tourist spot found always busy. It is a very beautiful place to visit.<br />
<strong>Nirar dam </strong>- This dam is built for multipurpose project such as irrigation, Hydro electricity production. Dam is situated in a wonderful location covered by a dense forest. There is a waterfall near by the dam which resembles the Cascade. It is situated at a distance of 15 km from Valparai.<br />
<strong>Chinnakallar </strong>- Chinnakalar is a geographically important place. It is the second highest rain fall area in <country-region w:st="on"><place w:st="on">India</place></country-region>. Always found wet and misty, and a greenish dense forest with tall majestic trees all along the road to Chinnakalar a pleasure route to enjoy.<br />
There is a falls in Chinnakallar which is very beautiful to watch. Chinnakallar is situated at a distance of 15 km from Valparai.<br />
<strong>Nallamudi Poonjolai </strong>-A beautiful view point located near the Sangiliroad in Valparai. One must walk for about 1 km inside the tea estate to reach this view point.<br />
<strong>Number Parai </strong>- This is also a beautiful view point. Near by Sangiliroad near Valparai.<br />
<strong>Grass Hills</strong> - Its a part of Indra Gandhi wildlife sanctuary & national park. It is surrounded by a green grass environment. It is a beautiful site of high green grasses on a mountain slope, which is a protected area. Visitors have to obtain permission from the wildlife warden to enter the Grass Hills. This is situated at a distance of 15 km from Valparai. Grass Hills is a picturesque spot located in the Valparai hills range, at a height of approx: 2400m msl, with cool climate getting cooler at night, a part of Indira Gandhi Wild Life Sanctuary. Right now all efforts are being undertaken by the government to preserve the flora and fauna of this location. Nilgiri Thar is native of this place apart from Elephants, Bison, Indian Gaur, Bear, Nilgiri Langurs etc.. and a wide variety of birds including Hornbills.<br />
<strong>Kadamparai Dam</strong> - This is a beautiful place to visit. Prior permission from the forest department is necessary to visit this place.<br />
<place w:st="on"><placename w:st="on"><strong>Athirapally</strong></placename><strong> <placetype w:st="on">Falls</placetype></strong></place> - It is near to the entrance of the Sholayar range is a place of great scenic beauty. Here, the water plunges from a height of nearly 80 feet before joining the Chalakudi river. This picturesque spot is adjacent to dense green forest, and is a part of <place w:st="on"><placename w:st="on">Chalakudi</placename> <placetype w:st="on">River</placetype></place>, 50 km from Valparai towards Chalakudi, Kerala.<br />
<br />
Photos : <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/kkrajiv/DropBox?authuser=0&feat=directlink">https://picasaweb.google.com/kkrajiv/DropBox?authuser=0&feat=directlink</a><br />
<br />
<strong><em>Important Information</em></strong><br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;">Misty Creek</span><br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;">0091 9488876568</span><br />
<a href="http://www.mistycreekvalparai.com/"><span style="color: #cc0000;">http://www.mistycreekvalparai.com/</span></a><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;">MRT Tours & Travels</span><br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;">70/1 B Lenin nagar, 2nd Street, Ganapathy, Coimbatore 6</span><br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;">0091 9442168478</span><br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;">0091 9894268478</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>Rajivhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08169379784192051518noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363039340574765744.post-4060602020069034812012-04-12T21:49:00.001-07:002012-04-12T22:36:05.297-07:00Maner Sharif<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuNAx8rPSEG4bVuHwVW3ebQ-Q2DX08EMSCOi-iYTl6pI4TIJEgCWdfhO8PMWDRQeCzp6-EE3DY6wtzFd1HUVATaqL43yR8tVf1DJqfcPTFL_sf9qj91Ei8IYK5v1NiB7ITPHzZ1d6IK7c/s1600/maner+dargah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"></span></a></div><div style="background-color: white; color: red;"><b>About Maner</b></div><div style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black;">Maner Sharif (Patna, Maner) </span></div><div style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white; text-align: justify;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3nj_F22bApauSYQEl28DUvYz0LYA7MKwksxR9LjxiHfMdKouybUZv4blZQjYho0F14cSPo__e3CPo9mZVLSgkaN1_0ObbTV6R2MhMKnykaFG3Q33uEHTfK7U2iasAb99Fq95kvRJVUU4/s1600/maner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3nj_F22bApauSYQEl28DUvYz0LYA7MKwksxR9LjxiHfMdKouybUZv4blZQjYho0F14cSPo__e3CPo9mZVLSgkaN1_0ObbTV6R2MhMKnykaFG3Q33uEHTfK7U2iasAb99Fq95kvRJVUU4/s320/maner.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the Tourist Bungalow</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="color: black;">It is a large village of historical antiquities, situated in the extreme north west of Danapur Sub-division, about 32 kms west of Patna on Patna-Arrah Highway. In the early ages Maner was a centre of learning and it is said that grammarian Panini, and also Bararuchi, lived and studied here. Maner contains two well-known Mohammedan tombs, that of Shah Daulat or Makhdum Daulat, known as Chhoti Dargah, and the other that of Sheikh Yahia Maneri or Makhdum Yahia, called the Bari Dargah. Makhdum Daulat died at Maner in 1608, and Ibrahim Khan, Governor of Bihar and one of the saint's disciples completed the erection of his mausoleum in 1616. The building is exceptionally fine one, with walls containing carvings of great delicacy and high finish. A great dome crowns it, and the ceiling is covered with carved inscriptions from the Quran. Every detail of it is characteristic of the architecture of Jehangir's region, and it is by far the finest monument of the Mughals in Eastern India. Inside the compound there is a mosque also built by Ibrahim Khan in 1619, whiles a fine gateway bearing an older inscription corresponding to 1603-01, and affords access to the north. The tomb of Yahia Maneri lies in a mosque walls and ghats, and pillared porticos jutting out into it, which is connected with the old bed of the River Sone by a tunnel 400-ft long.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="color: black;"><b style="color: red;">Maner - A tourist Paradise </b></span></span></div><div style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white; text-align: justify;">Maner has always served as a tourist spot due to the close proximity to Patna - 32 kms. As now, every Bihari wants to get connected to their roots - it brings back the huge working population scattered all over India and the world to Bihar. Every one now wants to be in their hometown and work towards a better living.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuNAx8rPSEG4bVuHwVW3ebQ-Q2DX08EMSCOi-iYTl6pI4TIJEgCWdfhO8PMWDRQeCzp6-EE3DY6wtzFd1HUVATaqL43yR8tVf1DJqfcPTFL_sf9qj91Ei8IYK5v1NiB7ITPHzZ1d6IK7c/s1600/maner+dargah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="146" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuNAx8rPSEG4bVuHwVW3ebQ-Q2DX08EMSCOi-iYTl6pI4TIJEgCWdfhO8PMWDRQeCzp6-EE3DY6wtzFd1HUVATaqL43yR8tVf1DJqfcPTFL_sf9qj91Ei8IYK5v1NiB7ITPHzZ1d6IK7c/s200/maner+dargah.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maner Dargah</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
People come here on weekends and spend the entire day with friends and families to enjoy the beautiful landscape and the Dargah. <br />
The entire landscape is beautiful as it adds more value to the scenery around with a lake in between. <br />
<br />
The Bihar government and Bihar Tourism has taken extra efforts to restore "Maner Shariff" and has built a Tourist Bungalow.<br />
The Tourist Bungalow is ready but is yet to be operational. <br />
<br />
<div style="color: red;"><b>What Maner Offers</b></div>Thanks to Bihar Government - as the roads now are much better to travel. From Patna - it will take 45 minutes to travel or about an hour - depending on your speed. It is advisable to set out early in the morning to avoid the chaotic traffic in Patna.<br />
You will have to take Bailey road, cross Danapur Cantt. and reach Maner.<br />
The Maner Shariff is about 2 Kms from the Chowk. If you get lost - ask anyone for the Maner Dargah.<br />
Try and spend a good quality time at Maner Shariff. It is always quiet here with splendid scenery around.<br />
<br />
You will not get any tourist guide here. At the Maner Dargah - you have information boards to tell you about the history of Maner. Entry Fees is nill.<br />
Those interested in photography - best place to be here.<br />
Maner Dargah is a pilgrimage. If you want your wishes to be fulfilled - tie a knot here and offer a chadar (bedsheet). Once your dreams come true - you will have to come here to untie any knot. It is the same what you have at the Red fort in Agra.<br />
<br />
Once you visit the dargah, you can enjoy on some delicious sweets, most popularly known for "Maner Ka Laddoo". One of the best places is Maner Sweets.</div><br />
<a href="http://maps.google.co.in/maps/mm?q=Maner-"><span style="color: black;">http://maps.google.co.in/maps/mm?q=Maner-</span></a><br />
<span style="color: black;">Bihar&hl=en&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Maner,+Bihar&gl=in&ei=2Pr1TPWtCo3Eswas4tjQBA&oi=geocode_result&ved=0CBkQ8gEwAA&ll=25.661333,85.259399&spn=0.704325,1.451569&z=10</span>Rajivhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08169379784192051518noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363039340574765744.post-82661822884717945442011-11-07T01:57:00.000-08:002011-11-07T02:01:26.116-08:00Visit to GRD Academy - meeting old friends after 16 Years<div style="text-align: justify;">I am finally taking time out from my busy schedule and blogging this. </div><div></div><div style="text-align: justify;">It's been almost a month that i have visited GRD and meeting old friends after 16 years - but memories are still fresh. </div><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDodU6Q07HkVobVCr9ia-nfVXKPz_5SVeMpqnsBEMUUFg-pBFAeDc0C1jBMNNz4PMki-BwSGhWaM5YTsLLaA0Q_5kfSRRKjyxkBPoIDggzo16INzq92Z2wvVjmYVGJ0IDIRfAupms2Z6g/s1600/Picture+060.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDodU6Q07HkVobVCr9ia-nfVXKPz_5SVeMpqnsBEMUUFg-pBFAeDc0C1jBMNNz4PMki-BwSGhWaM5YTsLLaA0Q_5kfSRRKjyxkBPoIDggzo16INzq92Z2wvVjmYVGJ0IDIRfAupms2Z6g/s400/Picture+060.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The new look to the building - GRD</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="color: red;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red; text-align: justify;"><br />
<br />
<i>01st Sep, 2011 (GRD Academy) </i></div><div></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We had left early from the hotel as we had a busy schedule ahead of us. Visiting GRD, meeting Principal Sir and then to visit Mussoorie for the night. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">After a hearty meeting with Principal Sir and Maam – we decided to have a look at our school. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Gosh – we could not believe that something’s have not changed at all. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The entrance where Principal’s Office used to be – the bajri is still there. It now looks swanky,,,I could see a bunch of new faces glued to their computers. Spotted an old GRD fella working – but can’t recall his name. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div>We met the new Principal of the school. Unfortunately, GRD Academy is no more a school now.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi03Qe7m2-XPIJnkx02JQs4tGv0MTbouMnNUosNt9klQf_PLr4kqVKlJwB2fvYs6BI_7MrsDa_91ki5rKO1ayY2hqkbd-eYtoZSg4vF98M05V8R-JEOYpPSCf-TOWwAr-uNstmMm0MNaPw/s1600/Picture+050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi03Qe7m2-XPIJnkx02JQs4tGv0MTbouMnNUosNt9klQf_PLr4kqVKlJwB2fvYs6BI_7MrsDa_91ki5rKO1ayY2hqkbd-eYtoZSg4vF98M05V8R-JEOYpPSCf-TOWwAr-uNstmMm0MNaPw/s400/Picture+050.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maam, Hardeep, Kanwaldeep, Kushwinder, Rajiv, Sir, Nitin, Sachin, Harmeet</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="color: red; text-align: justify;"><i>What is GRD right now: </i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> GRD is right now a full fledged college. Mostly into Bachelor’s Degree courses – B.Pharma, B.Tech – well, I did not even bother to enquire more as I new – it’s the business and the cash flows they are more interested in,,,, GRD right now has shifted to a remote location somewhere near the Doon School,,, (will write much later on this)</div><div></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Old School Building, Girls and Boys’ dorms – while we visited the buildings – seemed we were catching to the old memories of GRD,,,now – it rather looks more complete, well kept and neat. The study building has now a superb look,,only that I found the old Golden bell missing. The boys area has been divided based on the studies one does – so all the boys of the B.Pharma reside on 1 floor,,,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Many of us were interested where we used to reside – Blue, White and Gold House,,,the balconies are missing now and the back of the building looks much dilapidated,,,,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The forest at the backyard still remain as it is – lush, green and quiet as ever – wish it remains the same and not been bombarded by the urban development,,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We did not get time – or would rather say – not allowed to enter in the girl’s vicinity – Girl’s Dorm. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Dining room is now in 2 floors. We just had a look at the basement – flowery colored benches remind me of the old school days. If you have a peek at the menu – looks and sumptuous – Butter Chicken, Eggs and Aloo Parantha,,,wish we had this during our time,,,,I guess the students must be paying a bomb to study here. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Basket-Ball courtyard is still there except that the poles are missing. If you recall – where we used to have the lawn tennis court – a new Basket Ball facility has come up and looked pretty good. </div><div></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Tibetan area at the back does not exist any more. As I heard – there was a big hue n cry over this – but the administration had taken over,,,</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd3rhc-WYOF7xELOr3gAvpghMkqBIQ5zOqLklp7e86GTjkaMO1KYAUQKCXvhyphenhyphen_wpLQd6GPFyOo9FxI6zxkUApYciVGnEOYY7QpUX0ovU8bIpVFh1yEsJCTvX_ypiy_Qa1Cobu6-oF_Yuk/s1600/Picture+008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd3rhc-WYOF7xELOr3gAvpghMkqBIQ5zOqLklp7e86GTjkaMO1KYAUQKCXvhyphenhyphen_wpLQd6GPFyOo9FxI6zxkUApYciVGnEOYY7QpUX0ovU8bIpVFh1yEsJCTvX_ypiy_Qa1Cobu6-oF_Yuk/s320/Picture+008.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">new school area - Rajiv, Harbans Sir, Raja Singh, Kanwaldeep, Nitin, Hardeep</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
Now, they have a Hockey ground,,,,I could not spot any horses. Well, in our time – Horse riding was rather a dream. The horses were fed so much that they could not even move or walk. </div><div></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The only souls that we really for a moment in school was meeting Birgu Bhaiya and Sant Ram – check out the photos. When I met Birgu Bhaiya – hats off to his memory – he could recall everyone’s name. He was courteous as ever n smiling. Sant Ram – as tall as ever – was eager to meet us.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red; text-align: justify;"><br />
<br />
<b>The New GRD </b></div><div></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The new GRD is somewhere near the Doon School area. Please forgive me – I cant recall the place as it was getting dark when we visited. Spotted Harbans Sir – he is now the Head Master of the new school. The campus is new and is getting build,,,the same old story while we were new in GRD-Rajpur– 20 years ago,,,,the place is superb and is at an ideal location. We met Raja Singh – unbelievable to see him with the same old energy and enthusiasm. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Nazi tried his luck to play some basket ball while I was busy clicking photos. It was very nice of Sir and we sat to have Coffee and recall our old times. As always - i was not tuned with the nuances of Punjabi - so half of the conversation was buzzing over,,,, </div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><b style="color: red;">My View and Opinion</b><span style="color: red;"> –</span> </div><div></div><div style="text-align: justify;">GRD as an institution has changed a lot. It has grown bigger by the day – they have a school in Ludhiana and 2 branches in Dehra Dun. I only wished if they had an Alumni association or they could be chances of doing this,,,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I really enjoyed visiting school and cherishing the old moments we had in back then. Above all, it was wonderful meeting old school mates and my best friends, Principal Sir / Maam</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;">If you happen to finish reading this blog, take out time , creat an event on Facebook, dig out time to pull out phone numbers and start calling - thanks to Nitin & Hardeep, Facebook and other classmates for the wonderful effort to make this happen. When i recall - meeting friends after 16 years - that's amazing,,,</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><i>Everyone is busy in life but when you get to meet old friends and that too a dozen of years - you would laugh n laugh your way out of the wickedest things, screw ups, fuck ups, crashes, infatuations n some unheard stories,,,,</i></div> <u><i>Our's was a wonderful trip and we still laugh over it</i></u><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div>Rajivhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08169379784192051518noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363039340574765744.post-68987191657092497402011-09-13T04:02:00.000-07:002011-09-13T04:20:31.249-07:00Biking in Sri Lanka<link href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5Ckkrajiv%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml" rel="File-List"></link><o:smarttagtype name="PlaceType" namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype name="PlaceName" namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype name="City" namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype name="country-region" namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype name="place" namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags"></o:smarttagtype><style>
<!--
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";}
@page Section1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.Section1
{page:Section1;}
-->
</style> <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><i><b><o:p></o:p></b><b style="color: red;"><st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Sri Lanka</st1:place></st1:country-region> – A land like no other. </b></i><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">After a hectic research on places to visit for a 10 day vacation – we finally settled on <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Sri Lanka</st1:place></st1:country-region>. The big fight we had was on <st1:country-region w:st="on">Spain</st1:country-region>, <st1:country-region w:st="on">USA</st1:country-region> or <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Bhutan</st1:place></st1:country-region>. As I had already visited <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Spain</st1:place></st1:country-region> – was not keen on to travel once again. <st1:country-region w:st="on">USA</st1:country-region> was ruled out for the big hassle of the Visa formalities and <st1:country-region w:st="on">Bhutan</st1:country-region> was very close to <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Patna</st1:place></st1:city> – which can be done any time of the year. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>Ready to go<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">We had booked our flights earlier to <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Sri Lanka</st1:place></st1:country-region> and done preparations well in advance. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Reached <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Bangalore</st1:city></st1:place> earlier so that we could have all our preparations done with last minute shopping, documents and ticket arrangements. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: red;"><i>Day 1 – 27<sup>th</sup> Aug, 2011<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: red;"><i>Chennai><st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Colombo</st1:city></st1:place>>Negombo (35 Kms)<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal">Thanks to Ranveer – we spent a night at his house for an early morning flight. We left pretty early so that we could avoid the early morning traffic to the airport. And yes, we did not want to take any chances. </div><div class="MsoNormal">As the <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Chennai</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Airport</st1:placetype></st1:place> was under renovation – making it big rather, we had problems getting in to the airport. </div><div class="MsoNormal">We checked in soon and stood in the queue,,,gosh – you have to see the queue at the airport. There was a long queue at the immigration counter – looked like a railway station. After standing for about 1.30 hrs –we finally got the clearance headed for departure. </div><div class="MsoNormal">The Spice Jet flight to <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Colombo</st1:place></st1:city> was just a 1.15mnts flight. Soma was thrilled and she could not believe – her 1<sup>st</sup> over sees travel.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">We reached <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Colombo</st1:place></st1:city> on time by 1 PM. By gosh – we could sense the happiness on the arrival. Our first over sees travel – videsh yatra. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Our guide from Sha-Lanka tours was waiting for us. We soon hopped on to his – Toyota Hillux pick up truck for Negombo. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Negombo is 21 kms for the International airport. Most of the travelers use this place either to start or end their journey in <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Sri Lanka</st1:place></st1:country-region>. Negombo is a small quiet harbor next to <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Colombo</st1:place></st1:city>. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The Sha-Lanka guest house in Negombo was very good. Neat accommodation. As it was mid-day – it was pretty hot and humid. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">We then decided to take a half day tour of Negombo. Took a tuk tuk – the Indian Bajaj Auto – to the city. Got all our money exchanged to Sri Lanka Rupee and headed back to our guest house. It cost us Rs.400 for the entire trip – pretty expensive to <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:country-region w:st="on">India</st1:country-region></st1:place> standards – but as it was our 1<sup>st</sup> day – we did not have much idea on this.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I had an appointment with Suranga – the owner of Sha Lanka tours – where I rented the bike. With all the paper work done and bike formalities – we finally got our bike – the Honda Baja 250 cc. </div><div class="MsoNormal">All excited now for our bike trip to Lanka. </div><div class="MsoNormal">As we had to leave early, early dinner at the Serendib restaurant -Beer, beer, beer with sea food. Negombo at night is beautiful – the town rocks at night. With lots of pubs, eating joints and hotels – it is pleasant place to be in the evening. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: red;"><i>Day 2 - 27<sup>th</sup> Aug, 2011<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: red;"><i>Negombo>Kurunegala>Dambulla (152 kms)<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>We starting early morning as we wanted to avoid the city traffic and reach early to Dambulla – long day ride. As this was our 1<sup>st</sup> day - packing our bags to the bike was a daunting task. It reminds me of the Cramster saddle bags – so convenient to put on bikes – but as this was a mountain bike with less space to put for luggage – bungee cords were the only solution. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">We soon set off at 10am so start our Bike adventure in <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Sri Lanka</st1:place></st1:country-region>. Suranga had given directions to reach to Kurunegala and further to the highway. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Soma was wee bit uncomfortable sitting for a while, so we stopped in between. As she got more space now, had to rearrange the bag packs – we were soon on the highway. One of the mechanics was riding with us to Kurunegala. Someone’s bike broke down at Kurunegala,, so he accompanied us to the city. As this was my 1<sup>st</sup> day – I was more cautious to check on the incoming traffic. Once we touched the highway – I was on – belting the highway. I was tailing the mech. and doing good speed. </div><div class="MsoNormal">The country side is very beautiful – lush green landscape.</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-subjlWvZsoQ/TmdYmU9wgAI/AAAAAAAAXhU/pfinFUesbqY/s1600/Picture+020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-subjlWvZsoQ/TmdYmU9wgAI/AAAAAAAAXhU/pfinFUesbqY/s400/Picture+020.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">departure from Negombo</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal">We bid farewell to the mechanic at Kurunegala and headed further for Dambulla. As I was wearing my Cramster touring jacket, I could feel the sweat inside. The temperatures during the day are pretty humid – 30 c. But if you do not stop while riding – you can get the fresh air. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">By 1ish – we stopped for a good halt at Galewala. A small town – had some fresh drinks and bakery stuff. We did not want to have lunch – rather much lazy after that. <st1:place w:st="on">Milo</st1:place> – vanilla milk drink – one of my favorites drink during the tour. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">We reached Dambulla town by 2pm and checked for Hotels. Just next to the <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Golden</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Temple</st1:placetype></st1:place> – there were a dozen of Hotels and Restaurants – we checked in further down the road for a neat accommodation. Cost SLR 1500.00 for a night. Unpacked soon, and headed once again for the city tour. Sigriya is 21 kms from Dambulla. We had a quick lunch in the city and headed for Sigriya. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The 21 km ride from Dambulla to Sigriya was really great – less traffic and superb roads. It was quite a wee bit of an ascent to the hills and the Honda did a fabulous job on the ghats. </div><div class="MsoNormal">The Sigriya Statue – the Buddhist statue was pretty tall. Once we were in the monastery – it seemed we were in a Buddha city. I wanted to rush as see the Sigriya Fort as I read a lot about this. It took us 2 kms to walk at the entrance of Sigirya fort. Bad luck, it was 5pm and we did not get entry. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Headed back to Dambulla as we decided, we will come the next day. As we had time in the evening, visited the <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Dambulla</st1:placename> <st1:placename w:st="on">Golden</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Temple</st1:placetype></st1:place>. A big golden Buddha statue – it is a sacred place for Buddhists. There is Bodhi Tree – which had been brought from Bodh Gaya. A few photos and headed back to the hotel. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Dinner was not that great – we had at a local restaurant cum dhaba. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: red;"><i>Day 3 - 28<sup>th</sup> Aug, 2011<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: red;"><i>Dambulla > Sigriya > Dambulla> Matale> <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Kandy</st1:place></st1:city> (110 Kms)<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal">The night was awful sleeping at the guest house – was accompanied by a dozen of mosquitoes – guess did not use the mosquito net at night. </div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GVllCOL8fqE/TmddnK8VC2I/AAAAAAAAXl8/DivB2oy1rbw/s1600/Picture+090.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GVllCOL8fqE/TmddnK8VC2I/AAAAAAAAXl8/DivB2oy1rbw/s320/Picture+090.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Kandy</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal">We left for Sigriya by 7am for tour to Sigriya Fort. The ride once again was beautiful early in the morning. As we sped up to reach early, I could feel the chilly winds hitting my face. As the roads were pretty empty – and I did not stop even a bit on cruising at a high speed. Let me remind you – the speedometer was not functional – so I do not know what speed I was at – may be a 100. </div><div class="MsoNormal">We were the early birds to reach Sigirya fort. Parked and headed for the <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placetype w:st="on">Fort</st1:placetype> <st1:placename w:st="on">Tour</st1:placename></st1:place>. The ticket cost was more than our 1day stay at Dambulla. </div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UzmyZkZ89to/Tmdd094QLeI/AAAAAAAAYJc/5JK5JeN3Yxo/s1600/Picture+094.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="215" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UzmyZkZ89to/Tmdd094QLeI/AAAAAAAAYJc/5JK5JeN3Yxo/s320/Picture+094.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Kandy</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal">As the entire tour was for 2 hours – it was worth to take a guide. Our guide was helpful to explain all the details – the Lions Foot, Frescoes, Durbar Hall, Swimming Pool & bathing area. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Don’t miss Sigriya Fort if you are in <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Sri Lanka</st1:place></st1:country-region> – one of the most spectacular forts in the world. I just cannot explain how we felt once we reached the top – after an arduous trek of 1 hour – 1200 steps to climb. The entire landscape was lush green. It was a magnificent 360 view from Sigriya. Far off – we could the cities – Polonnaruwa, Dambulla, <st1:city w:st="on">Anuradhapura</st1:city> & <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Kandy</st1:place></st1:city>. Infact, we could spot the <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Dambulla</st1:placename> <st1:placename w:st="on">Golden</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Temple</st1:placetype></st1:place>. </div><div class="MsoNormal">A quick descent to the base, hopped on once again and headed for Dambulla. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ErpHKNkmlUM/TmdfVXBr4eI/AAAAAAAAXng/PRvFa1Wwzd4/s1600/Picture+116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ErpHKNkmlUM/TmdfVXBr4eI/AAAAAAAAXng/PRvFa1Wwzd4/s320/Picture+116.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pinnewala Elephant Orphange-Kegalla</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal">We checked in early and left for <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Kandy</st1:place></st1:city>. Once again – the roads were superb and good for riding. Dambulla to <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Kandy</st1:place></st1:city> was an easy ride – breathtaking view and had a good experience on the ghats. As we got close to <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Kandy</st1:place></st1:city> – the traffic got bigger. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">We had to take help of the local cops – to get in to <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Kandy</st1:place></st1:city> town. Asked a few auto wala’s – and checked in at – Hotel Amara near the Indian Embassy. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Wow – Hotel Amara was at a hill top and gave a good view of <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Kandy</st1:place></st1:city> town. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Kandy</st1:place></st1:city> town looked amazing – it looked like a fairy tale town – lush green, clean, quite and in between – a big lake. </div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_8nSWYvEX5c/Tmdjvfk0v-I/AAAAAAAAXqw/z3KxNGy1cBo/s1600/Picture+167.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_8nSWYvEX5c/Tmdjvfk0v-I/AAAAAAAAXqw/z3KxNGy1cBo/s400/Picture+167.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gregory Lake - Nuwara Eliya</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal">Soma gave a good idea to leave the bike and did a city tour on a tuk tuk. We visited the Buddha Monastery – the view from the top was worth a visit. Later in the evening – we visited the Kandy Cultural Show – acrobats, various cultural dances etc. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Our tuk tuk wala took us to a muslim hotel for dinner – dinner was cold here. Once we finished dinner – we got to know – there was KFC round the corner,,,,shit – what a miss. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="color: red;"><i>Day 4 - 28<sup>th</sup> Aug, 2011<o:p></o:p></i></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: red;"><st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on"><i>Kandy</i></st1:place></st1:city><i> > Pinnewala Elephant Camp > Gampola > Ramboda > Nuwara Eliya (145 Kms)<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p style="color: red;"></o:p>A long day ahead – visiting the Elephant Orphanage – ride back and head for the hills to Nuwara Eliya. </div><div class="MsoNormal">We left <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Kandy</st1:place></st1:city> at 8:30am for Kegalla – the Elephant Orphanage. The traffic was crazy in the morning as it was a weekend and we were using the main road of the Kandy Colombo highway. There wasn’t a better road than this on the entire route we had done. Sexy roads and as neat as ever, superb climate – nothing better could I ask for in Lanka. We drove to Kegalla for 65 kms to get to the Elephant orphanage. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Pinnewala Elephant orphanage is just below the ghats of <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Kandy</st1:place></st1:city>. A perfect place for the mighty monster to sit relax, have a dip in the water and binge. The camp was worth the detour we had taken as we were all excited to visit this place. I don’t have a count of how many Elephants were there,,,,we saw Elephants of ages – 1-4 months to the biggest – 67 years. By joe – he was huge – and getting near him – called for trouble. Many visitors preferred to watch to small one’s – and could feed a bottle of milk. As we had to leave for the hills – we left the camp soon and once again hit the highway. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><i>The Cops caught us<o:p></o:p></i></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KgLQBIlaOJA/TmdlxyPFOxI/AAAAAAAAXso/Ta3F_dvqFY0/s1600/Picture+197.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KgLQBIlaOJA/TmdlxyPFOxI/AAAAAAAAXso/Ta3F_dvqFY0/s320/Picture+197.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sipping Ceylon Tea - Pedro Estate-Nuwara Eliya</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal">I was speeding and jumped a zebra crossing – cops were just waiting for me. This happened after we left the Kegalla town. Don’t know what was the fine – but I communicated as if I did not know English – hindi, 1<sup>st</sup> time travel to Lanka, honey moon couple. I guess – not speaking in English did work- as there was a communication problem with the cops. They checked my driver’s license from <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">India</st1:place></st1:country-region> and Passports – we were lucky and the cops left us. Later, I came to know – you cannot over take on a zebra crossing. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">We were supposed to take a detour from Peradeniya to Gampola but we missed it. So we had to go all the way back to <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Kandy</st1:place></st1:city> – take the road for Gampola and then head further to Nuwara Eliya. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F51iEtVYGu0/Tmdl-ZGpj_I/AAAAAAAAXsw/Y8WNHvIGIAc/s1600/Picture+199.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F51iEtVYGu0/Tmdl-ZGpj_I/AAAAAAAAXsw/Y8WNHvIGIAc/s400/Picture+199.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">gettin ready for the rain ride - to Nuwara Eliya</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal">As we headed towards the hills – the rains played a spoil sport. The afternoon showers – we had to stop for ¾ times en route to Nuwara Eliya. The showers were so severe – that you had to stop in between to take shelter or else – you could get wet. I was very slow here on the ghats while riding. It was slippery here. Once we reached Ramboda – we got clear skies. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Far off in the distance –we got a glimpse of <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Ramboda</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Falls</st1:placetype></st1:place>. A few pictures and soon left for Nuwara Eliya. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Ramboda to Nuwara Eliya was a beautiful ride – ghats were good to ride with lovely tea gardens en route. I was doing a slow ride here as I could not get my eyes of the tea estates. </div><div class="MsoNormal">As we got closer to Nuwara Eliya town – it was getting cold and misty. Visibility was very poor. Soon, found loads of shops at the top. I knew – we were getting close to the town. </div><div class="MsoNormal">As we made a descent – clearing the mist – got our 1<sup>st</sup> view of Nuwara Eliya town. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Exactly as mentioned in the books – it was a “Little England”. </div><div class="MsoNormal">We saw a huge ground where we spotted a few horses, some cricketers and a huge lake. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Once were in town – we got information for hotels and checked in at a decent hotel on the avenue road. </div><div class="MsoNormal">The rooms were small here but cozy. </div><div class="MsoNormal">We had a quick lunch in the city and rode near the lake. We spend our evening in a quiet place near the lake – as it was gorgeous. One of the places to be in Lanka was in Nuwara Eliya. Cargills food store is the biggest mall in Nuwara Eliya. It didn’t look like a mall to me at all – thought was a historical place. As the sun set – we left from the main bazaar to the hotel – and bought some Arrack – desi liquor. We had Sri Lankan dinner at the hotel – yummy food. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: red;"><i>Day 5 - 29<sup>th</sup> Aug, 2011<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: red;"><i>Nuwara Eliya > Bandarewala > Ella (75 kms)<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p style="color: red;"></o:p>We did not have time to visit the Horton’s plan, Baker’s field as we wanted to see the Tea factory – Pedro Estate. </div><div class="MsoNormal">The Pedro Estate was beautiful to visit. Got to taste yellow tea. </div><div class="MsoNormal">We bid farewell to Nuwara Eliya and road to Ella. </div><div class="MsoNormal">At the descent – the roads were not good – so we took an easy ride. Had breakfast by 10 at a local village. From Badulla – we had to take a deviation to Ella. </div><div class="MsoNormal">As we reached Badulla, we were near the plains and could get rid of our winter gear. Nuwara Eliya was very very cold. It was a good decision that we did not stay for 2 days. Reached Bandarewala by 12:30 and then to Ella. The route from Bandarewala to Ella is beautiful. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Ella is a small quiet town – many foreigners visit this place as it is close to Nuwara Eliya and bit warm. For others – it is a very important pilgrimage. </div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-odXEZ5iAOsM/TmdoAfc8eAI/AAAAAAAAXuo/xGRFKTsoXK8/s1600/Picture+229.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-odXEZ5iAOsM/TmdoAfc8eAI/AAAAAAAAXuo/xGRFKTsoXK8/s320/Picture+229.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a detour in Ella - trying to test the Honda Baja</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal">Ravana kept Sita captive here in the Ravana caves. </div><div class="MsoNormal">We found a very good guest house – Forest Paradise. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Their visiting card says – best place to love, rest and pray – really true. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Had a heavy Italian lunch and left for the Ravana caves. Visited the Raven temple and Ravana falls. I was more interested to see the caves where Sita was captive. Local fellas told – you had to trek for 40 mnts. to reach the caves. Well, we gave it a try as we did not find any visitors to this place – a bit spooky. </div><div class="MsoNormal">We finally reached sweating n all dirty – fell a few places and Soma was really scared. Once we were in the caves – pretty scary. Not even a single soul to be found. We were top of a mountain – but the cave was very deep – could not get to see the outside view or landscape. Guess – Ravana was smart to keep here. We soon left this place – an unbelievable moment. </div><div class="MsoNormal">We also visited the local railway station – small but sweet. There were only 2 train departures in a day from here. </div><div class="MsoNormal">We informed Nelly – the owner at Forest Paradise for Sri Lankan dinner. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Our <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Sri Lanka</st1:place></st1:country-region> dinner was excellent. This time veg – as we were sick eating sea-food. We had steamed rice, curry n vegetables. Awesome food. </div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F-ZTb1tpnMo/TmdodV7bpRI/AAAAAAAAXvM/siSQG1XX5zc/s1600/Picture+239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F-ZTb1tpnMo/TmdodV7bpRI/AAAAAAAAXvM/siSQG1XX5zc/s400/Picture+239.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">us at Forest Paradise - Ella</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p><i> </i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i><span style="color: red;">Bike Trip over</span><o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal">We had hired the bike only for 5 days – as we wanted to cover mainly the historical places and the hills. From Ella – we decided to hire a cab and make it a more relaxed trip further down to the beaches. As the distances were short – it was easy for us to take buses or auto rickshaws. </div><div class="MsoNormal">Well, what I really wanted – was to ride in <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Sri Lanka</st1:place></st1:country-region>. And I did a recent ride for 520 kms. </div><div class="MsoNormal">It may not be much if you are reading this – but in <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Sri Lanka</st1:place></st1:country-region> – it is a lot. </div><div class="MsoNormal">The distance from cities is very small. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
<div style="color: red;"><i>For Bikers</i></div></div><div class="MsoNormal">If you really wanna ride - Sri Lanka is the place to be. </div><div class="MsoNormal">A small country where riding is safe and the destinations are not all far. For an Indian - getting accustomed to driving in Lanka is as driving in any city in India. </div><div class="MsoNormal">As a hard core - Bullet wala - the Honda Baja 250cc rocks. The Japanese bike is superb at it's performance and gives good mileage. The discs and manoeuvrings of the bike is perfect. Sri Lanka does not permit any hire than the 250 cc's- unless you are really crazy to take your own bike.It will be good if you hire bikes at Negombo and pay them in advance. I have mentioned all the details i could for travelers and bikers with other details. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: red;"><u>Other important Details.</u></div><div class="MsoNormal">For Flights - http://www.spicejet.com</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Booking Bikes - suranga007@yahoo.com, 0094 777 488746</div><div class="MsoNormal">http://www.sharesidence.com</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Money exchange : Mayurie Jewelery</div><div class="MsoNormal">240 Main Street, Negombo, Sri Lanka</div><div class="MsoNormal">031 2226555</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Forest Paradise Guest House</div><div class="MsoNormal">http://www.forestparadiseella.com</div><div class="MsoNormal">Telephone : 0094 572 228797</div><div class="MsoNormal">forestparadise@hotmail.com<br />
<br />
for more photos <br />
<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/kkrajiv/SriLankaExplored?authuser=0&feat=directlink">https://picasaweb.google.com/kkrajiv/SriLankaExplored?authuser=0&feat=directlink</a> </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div>Rajivhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08169379784192051518noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363039340574765744.post-1613201453823450882011-06-23T00:03:00.000-07:002011-06-23T00:03:35.579-07:00Maner Sweets-Bihta<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-odZ6ISESB4I/TgLM18RIunI/AAAAAAAAXUM/NfVhgRn3snk/s1600/Picture+006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-odZ6ISESB4I/TgLM18RIunI/AAAAAAAAXUM/NfVhgRn3snk/s320/Picture+006.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<b style="color: red;">How did the idea come up</b><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">The idea to open a new outlet in Bihta was started by my father – Late Suresh Prasad Gupta. After a new road built from Bihta Chowk to Khagaul – the distance for travelers was now much shorter what was earlier. One had to travel all the way via Maner and Danapur Cant to reach Patna. After the new road built by the National Highway authorities – travelers can enjoy driving on this new stretch to reach Patna.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">As Maner Sweets-Maner – our strategy was only travelers who would stop to take a break for snacks and sweets and head on further to their destination. Sales started to slump with only a few customers (travelers) visiting Maner. Most of the travelers preferred using the new road towards Patna. <br />
<br />
My father was in a rush to buy land in Bihta – but when he finally decided to buy one – the land rates in Bihta were sky rocketing – land prices right now are almost similar to Bangalore and New Delhi commercial properties. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Added more to that, development was on a rise with NDRF, ESIC, Bharat Petroleum & Apollo Hospital setting up new ventures in business in Bihta. It is estimated that Rs. 2000 crore is to be invested in Bihta (5 years) and had been declared by the government as an “Industrial Park”. <br />
<br />
With my father’s hope to start a new outlet in Bihta – land prices were too high to invest. Unfortunately, my father met with an accident after he fell from a staircase while attending a wedding in Kanpur. We lost him on 03rd January, 2011. </div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><b style="color: red;">New Gen Entrepreneurs.</b><br />
Fortunately, all family members have got some sort of training in the sweet business. I remember while I was working in New Delhi & Bangalore – I had to rush every Diwali to help in the family business.<br />
<br />
Manish Kumar Gupta : A Symbiosis Mass Communication graduate from Pune. Has worked with Star TV Mumbai for 2 years. Thinking of aiming big – quit the Mumbai life and started to work in the family business. <br />
<br />
Rajiv Kumar – ahh- that’s me. <br />
Worked in American Express(New Delhi) and then shifted to Bangalore. Worked for 6 years in Bangalore with Oracle and Logica. With 8 years of Corporate experience – it was time to venture on something new. <br />
Added to this – finished my executive MBA from NMIMS –Bangalore,,,there was nothing stopping to be an entrepreneur. <b style="color: red;"> </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b style="color: red;"> </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b style="color: red;">Preparation</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">It took us almost 6/7 months to work on the logistics, paper work, interiors, hiring staff & finances. <br />
Fortunately, my MBA project was based on this new venture – Bihta. <br />
We finally decided to open on April 18th, 2011. </div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kbPu7peHTO4/TgBJJVfYYrI/AAAAAAAAXS4/uHwQa_Rvdjg/s1600/Picture+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kbPu7peHTO4/TgBJJVfYYrI/AAAAAAAAXS4/uHwQa_Rvdjg/s320/Picture+002.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View - at the entrance</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<b style="color: red;">What we offer</b><br />
The new outlet boasts ample space for Customers and travelers who can sit, relax and enjoy their delicacies. Above all, washrooms are one of the best in town. There is a wide variety of sweets ranging from Kaju, Chena, Khoya and Laddoo's.Rajivhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08169379784192051518noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363039340574765744.post-47574285527544695262010-12-30T03:22:00.000-08:002010-12-30T03:28:39.518-08:00Final Day - NMIMS Exams & Classes<u><span style="color: red;">25th December. 2010</span></u><br />
As exams was round the corner, could not sleep well. Left late for the NMIMS Library. Since it was Christmas – a Holiday – Library was closed. Managed to get the library open and taken one of the big rooms to do self study. <br />
<br />
Well – in 1 day – you cannot manage to pull (study) 2 subjects – Manufacturing & IMC. When I finally managed to check on the notes – it was a task to study. Eventually – I realized – we had six papers to study for. The exams were to be held next day i.e. Sunday – starting from 10 to 1 and 2 to 5. Wow, this was a shock of my life. <br />
<br />
As a typical MBA wala – planning comes first, later execution. Started with Brand Management and CRM. I just looked up some sites for notes and was trying to solve last year questions papers. <br />
<br />
By 1 – I was able to do some revision. I was not feeling well in between – as I dozed off a couple of times. Had to rush home to take rest. By the time I woke up – it was late evening to realize that I had loads to study. Brushed up once again on the Manufacturing notes, had a quick dinner and dozed off,,,,<br />
<br />
<u><span style="color: red;">26th December, 2010</span></u><br />
Well, I had dis big grin on my face – whatever happens today – is history. A final sigh of relief – to hell with classes and exams. Today was the last day of NMIMS exams. No more classes on weekends and exams. No more assignments. <br />
<br />
A big day for all those 19 souls who struggled to sacrifice every weekend until 2 years – to study and to attain something in life. <br />
<br />
5 semesters, 30 subjects, more than 1000 hours of lectures, case studies, presentation, assignments – all sums to add to our wonderful experience here in NMIMS. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC_AObXGpvkpzpVWUhf2RvxEIq4tPCFVECXSj1Ng6GeaMV4rwHBwrm5BIFN48wntgYUZvNWVjxfee2FSnTS4mseyqyHkU7bibg-JZBooSzluTlMTUjJVDu3F4Xo4ByX-ykrqNZ2JAL1Zg/s1600/terrace+foto.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="153" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC_AObXGpvkpzpVWUhf2RvxEIq4tPCFVECXSj1Ng6GeaMV4rwHBwrm5BIFN48wntgYUZvNWVjxfee2FSnTS4mseyqyHkU7bibg-JZBooSzluTlMTUjJVDu3F4Xo4ByX-ykrqNZ2JAL1Zg/s320/terrace+foto.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinup, Akhiljit, John, Rohit, Jambu, Hussain, Rajiv, Bikram, prem, Anupam, Sujit - NMIMS Terrace</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
WCM (World Class Manufacturing) As the countdown begun for our 1st exam –Manufacturing,,, we got a shock to see the QP. 2 Questions to be done in 1 hour. And the worst part was – it was last year’s question paper. The last year exam time was 3 hours and ours was just – 1 hour. We finally gave an alarm and got the matter sorted. Quickly browsed the net and referred notes to solve the paper- I really do not know what I wrote but giving the deadlines – had to rush on.<br />
<br />
SCM – by the time I was out of the groove of WCM – here comes the 2nd paper – SCM. Another deadline of 1 hour. Once again, rushed to check notes and references. It was over by 12. <br />
<br />
TOC – TOC was pretty easy. An objective 40 questions paper. If 1 had revised last year’s QP – this was a cakewalk. But only a few managed to study and we were here – just looking for the correct answer. By the time I got over solving the paper – my mind was completely drained out. I guess – we were in a hurry to finish the exams and the deadlines or it would have been a drag till next year. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEYJPHEqBZ8WkuqWEL9QmcGrQ7Mb8CIu66IvVtcxWlRps9QEJCSCC7VIjMv60ez38zHNxM8OzbF5QSxQ42be3zutkCk8dXnm7HUPU97LFJ7oKYVVy8e4imcHiKMsa24PT11iegrrOOnX8/s1600/mera+class+mein.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEYJPHEqBZ8WkuqWEL9QmcGrQ7Mb8CIu66IvVtcxWlRps9QEJCSCC7VIjMv60ez38zHNxM8OzbF5QSxQ42be3zutkCk8dXnm7HUPU97LFJ7oKYVVy8e4imcHiKMsa24PT11iegrrOOnX8/s320/mera+class+mein.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Post exams-Anupam, me</td></tr>
</tbody></table>A quick lunch with a small photo shoot on the terrace. We rushed for the final leg of the IMC exams. Again – it was CRM, IMC and Brand Management to be done in 3 hours. <br />
<br />
CRM – As I referred the notes with some case studies on the net - getting to the right point was just difficult. And to complete the exams in an hour – was much more tasking. Whatever diagram just came up – thought for a moment and said ‘I guess this would be the best fit” – here goes on the answer sheet. I was just jumping to points here n there to make one big lengthy answer paper. <br />
<br />
IMC – IMC was a bouncer. The notes were exhaustive. I slowed down a bit here as I wanted to finish this at the end. I switched over to Brand Management to check on the Questions paper. Most of QP was a repetition and fairly easy. So took a good time to study the case study and solve. <br />
<br />
Brand Management: did the QP in 30 minutes and I had solved the same in office. As net was accessible here, many looked confused to some of questions sir had asked. “What is the positioning of Zara” – I remember – we would not have any idea on this. As the clock struck 5 – It was a moment that I will never forget – exams finally over and done with MBA. <br />
<br />
Out was my camera for some memorable moments to be captured - class, friends and books. We hurried to decide on the venue for some beer session. <br />
<br />
We left for Rendezvous in Koramangala. As the beer kept pouring in our mugs, everyone looked relaxed and chilled out. How time passed – no one knew. 2 years studying and managing work was crazy. Some of us recalled the beautiful moments we shared – khasi wala kutta, prem’s entry to the class (as if no one knew), brand management, our 1st encounters with economics, marriages, most eligible bachelors, Sweden experience, beauty salon case study, what were the best and worst subjects ,,,,the session went all till 7 to wind up on the paan session. The joke finally goes like this – since we were busy all these weekends – many of us thought – what will we do now on weekends – well “it will take time for many of us to realize that we finally finished the course” <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxzplNajnBnWbKVDxza-2aieMGBAoUP6_2a2c248uIIslCOMjt8zzNE56_xOb3IWaSD4vtVCC8Zs7zZyA6etMbzmU5s2a9rvn1MeCd462xTOdQZCI8T2Wn-XjKTMku2to6yZNSVThYUbs/s1600/dinner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="139" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxzplNajnBnWbKVDxza-2aieMGBAoUP6_2a2c248uIIslCOMjt8zzNE56_xOb3IWaSD4vtVCC8Zs7zZyA6etMbzmU5s2a9rvn1MeCd462xTOdQZCI8T2Wn-XjKTMku2to6yZNSVThYUbs/s320/dinner.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jambu,Rohit, Sujit, Rajiv, Bikram, John, Dinup & Arghya - Rendezvous (Bangalore)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
A few of our classmates could not make it – as some had exams the next day and some finished the course much earlier. <br />
<br />
Well, it was indeed a fantastic hectic memorable day and a wonderful journey.<br />
<br />
Pictures : <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/kkrajiv/NMIMSMPE?feat=directlink">http://picasaweb.google.com/kkrajiv/NMIMSMPE?feat=directlink</a>Rajivhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08169379784192051518noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363039340574765744.post-31733317893932475722010-12-28T03:30:00.000-08:002010-12-28T03:30:31.726-08:00Maner-my rootsManer (Patna, Bihar) <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">History : In the early ages, Maner was a centre of learning and it is said that grammarian Panini, and also Bararuchi, lived and studied here. Maner contains two well-known Mohammedan tombs, that of Shah Daulat or Makhdum Daulat, known as Chhoti Dargah, and the other that of Sheikh Yahia Maneri or Makhdum Yahia, called the Bari Dargah. Makhdum Daulat died at Maner in 1608, and Ibrahim Khan, Governor of Bihar and one of the saint's disciples completed the erection of his mausoleum in 1616. The building is exceptionally fine one, with walls containing carvings of great delicacy and high finish. A great dome crowns it, and the ceiling is covered with carved inscriptions from the Quran. Every detail of it is characteristic of the architecture of Jehangir's region, and it is by far the finest monument of the Mughals in Eastern India. Inside the compound there is a mosque also built by Ibrahim Khan in 1619, whiles a fine gateway bearing an older inscription corresponding to 1603-01, and affords access to the north. The tomb of Yahia Maneri lies in a mosque walls and ghats, and pillared porticos jutting out into it, which is connected with the old bed of the River Sone by a tunnel 400-ft long.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ8L4T-yVJclSRnxyqVvuK-MdrHHR0lUMRqbWY6S3sjNvm0mb-LiXVNpfq30UTY3nacxtiWI5aloLlHSfHJcxgsDjjAHHJz6uDBizIQK7hjjO6IREcHvS0N6_lQQqrVF6D_896S_mrKh8/s1600/maner+dargah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ8L4T-yVJclSRnxyqVvuK-MdrHHR0lUMRqbWY6S3sjNvm0mb-LiXVNpfq30UTY3nacxtiWI5aloLlHSfHJcxgsDjjAHHJz6uDBizIQK7hjjO6IREcHvS0N6_lQQqrVF6D_896S_mrKh8/s1600/maner+dargah.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">All about Maner </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">Maner is a beautiful town farly tucked away from the hustle n bustle of City life. It serves as a mid point for travellers and is on the National Higway - Patna to Ara. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">The total distance from Patna to Maner is a mere 35 kms - thanks to the beautiful roads - and it can be covered in 45 minutes. The only hastle is crossing the Danapur cantonment - where the speed limit is not beyond 20 km/hr. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXiZShVbl3kH1vyobn9GD4lZzaWhbnUPyNNo_f_T1QgvloaCzZNwKXKYRF1VRyAYzSsH6NmTtmXSN8fky76pS6NrIx3n5_Mlc3Cj4Fv8eXvZVkFwaQy7k7og6VSS7QioLc1k8GtMg2LyU/s1600/Maner+Map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="154" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXiZShVbl3kH1vyobn9GD4lZzaWhbnUPyNNo_f_T1QgvloaCzZNwKXKYRF1VRyAYzSsH6NmTtmXSN8fky76pS6NrIx3n5_Mlc3Cj4Fv8eXvZVkFwaQy7k7og6VSS7QioLc1k8GtMg2LyU/s320/Maner+Map.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">Maner has it's own charm. From the Maner high school to the Dargah - you will find at both sides of the road - long Pipal trees which serves as a green cover. Now the Dargah has hit limelight and many frequent travellers do make a visit. In Chath - Maner is a favorite spot as it is very near the River Sone. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Maner is also a very safe place to live. People are friendly and hospitable. As Bihta is nearby - it serves as a good spot for commerical business. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Maner Ka Laddoo : too less to write a blog. It's one of the famous shops that sells - Maner Ka Laddoo. Having lived the dark age of political riot of 15 years and the global recession - it's one of those establishment that has it's own charm and way to serve customers. Maner ka Laddoo - you have to be there to taste those laddoo's. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">What is so special : as experts say and i have heard - the ground level water - a source from the river sone - is very sweets. So the Boondi - which acts as an ingrdient of the Laddoo - soaks all the water as ras and binds it together to form a Laddoo. And to that - the beautiful essence - Kewra (essence from Kannauj) - it's sold in thousand per KG - gives a more aromatic taste. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Maner Sweets has lived upto to a couple of generations - as the 3rd generation of entrepreneurs run the shop. It is as old India got it's independance. Some of the famous personalities who have stopped to have a taste are Indira Gandhi, late VP Singh, Kunal (bhojpuri actor), Laloo, Rocky & Mayur (Highway on my plate) & Vindo Dua,,long list. Infact, i have seen lot of documentaries been produced. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">There is the Ghee Laddoo, Dalda Special and Ordinary Laddoo. They also have a brand in Patna (Maurya Lok Complex).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div> Rajivhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08169379784192051518noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363039340574765744.post-3883948847854278032010-12-02T22:59:00.000-08:002010-12-03T01:48:02.821-08:00Munnar Christmas Trip-06<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: red;">Planning</span></div></div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">The initial planning was quite difficult as we did not know where to head for. The South India TTK atlas map was so big that we were just guessing places where to head for. Beaches, Mountains or Bangalore. But then, we just had the quest to conquer or explore new destinations in South. What came to our mind was "Kerala" - it was just simply the brand name or probably the ' God Owns Country" that we had to visit. I don’t know how we started our planning - but the Google search was the ultimate experience - God - the websites and the photos of Munnar seemed to be great and when we went there - it was something elicit!!!!!</div></div></div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
We did not know how many members would hitch on the rip but we just had to get out to celebrate Christmas!!!!</div></div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
2 Days of Planning - and we finally settled to a destination called "Munnar" – in Kerala - approx. 12 hours of Drive. </div></div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7MMQJtVb1ucx2fqi8Sl5zxKnizvCBumaAY51poftrS0JtEUPSwABd-rz7NwDyUh_uAQeSusRFovsrN2nY3-FZOn1VApuBGWjfk5oTtzT5pfYqqfnR2pVQI_jC3cJGWlYPtZzqA0UWVPo/s1600/se4.BMP" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="195" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7MMQJtVb1ucx2fqi8Sl5zxKnizvCBumaAY51poftrS0JtEUPSwABd-rz7NwDyUh_uAQeSusRFovsrN2nY3-FZOn1VApuBGWjfk5oTtzT5pfYqqfnR2pVQI_jC3cJGWlYPtZzqA0UWVPo/s320/se4.BMP" width="320" /></a><em><span style="color: orange;">Travellers - Sujoy, Pratima, Nitesh and Rajiv</span></em></div></div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><em><span style="color: orange;">Date of Travel: 23, 24 and 25th Dec.2006</span></em></div></div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><em><span style="color: red;">Day 1 (23rd December, 2006): </span></em></div></div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"> </div></div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">As usual, our itinerary was set and we had to leave at sharp 4 in the morning. Since we got slightly wee drunk, the alarm rang at 4. , but Nits. woke us at 5:30 a.m. </div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Washing his dashing Tata Sierra was hell lot of task to get it ready for the big 12 hour journey. Sujai was on his regular cigs. Early in the morning. We left bang. at 5:30 and could see the vehicles heading to get out of the city. "My god" it’s Christmas Celebrations ----- The two hour drive was quite fast since we covered a great amount of distance. i guess the morning rise helped to cover a great time.</div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I knew the way from Bangalore to Salem as i had done a couple of rides on the Bike, so till Salem was a smooth ride - i was giving more tips on how to explain more on till Salem route. I had taken tips from Muthu - my RTMC friend -way to Munnar. Our first stop was near Salem - Reliance Petrol Bunk - god damn. We lost 40 minutes to get some Idlis and Dip Tea. It was useless. Some photos shoot at Salem University. The 2nd stop was on the way to Pollachi. We found out that we did not take the Erode -Coimbatore Route since there was heavy Traffic and roads were bad. So the "Chai Wala " suggested to take the Bus route which is quite empty in the day time. A deviation now – and we found out that it was exactly the same. Sujai did take some wrong turns here n there but we managed to hit the Junction at Pollachi. On the way - we found "Aunty's Dhabha" - an amazing place which should be featured in the Lonely Planet - Amazing food at just Rs.30 and she knew English - Rotis, Chicken n Saambar (yummy)</div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">From Pollachi via Chinnar were the ghats - some 80 kms. Ghat Section - it was quite a long journey,,once we entered Kerala, we could feel that Munnar was not far - The Mist n cool breeze real meant that we had come to "Gods own Country " - all the while - i was busy calling Travel Agents for Bookings since it was Christmas time - so we expected lot of rush. We reached Munnar late wee dark - 8ish . So in all - it was hell lot of Driving for Nitesh and Sujai. We finally stayed at "Tristar Resorts " a big resort . On net - it looks awesome - the pics. but on reality - it did not seem so. We tried to bargain a bit but Mr. Jobi did not offer discount. Sujai hit straight for the bed as he was not well. As this was a long ride n the deal we done, was not all that good - we had some drinks. After 2 hours - Mr Sujoy - woke up. As usual - he was n his mood for the drinks. So the night was long as we enjoyed the fresh air of Munnar. </div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>slept late,,snoring<br />
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><em><span style="color: red;">Day 2 (24th December, 2006): </span></em></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5tiB4B6jZQ5Bn5n-LDCiUPmgIjy3qbcns2xNxFU7uHgqQR-eFTTcHdPEicCqrMqyaVJEN3Sz5eBMpK9IiFCogSDzt1czk8yOmduxk88HpFU1sD5M9d9SdIF8FwHEbvM-4vYv90e6Dnv4/s1600/pardy-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5tiB4B6jZQ5Bn5n-LDCiUPmgIjy3qbcns2xNxFU7uHgqQR-eFTTcHdPEicCqrMqyaVJEN3Sz5eBMpK9IiFCogSDzt1czk8yOmduxk88HpFU1sD5M9d9SdIF8FwHEbvM-4vYv90e6Dnv4/s200/pardy-3.JPG" width="200" /></a>The Tristar People did not treat us well with the food - i guess they ran short of staff or they were too commercialized. Anyways - we paid our resort bill - clicked some fotos and wished the group ,,,”christmas hain bhai” We left for the City so that we could go for the next destination - Cliff huts. Brunch was at the main stop in Munnar - Omlettes, biryani, and Sujoy special - after food - soup. I don’t know how he manages with his tummy but hats off to his drinking and food. Kahi - Steppe kha jati hain ya kabhi kuch khaya hi nahin,,,,,,,, after lunch , i had to get Senthil and Sajan - experts in Trekking - there one of the best Trekking Guides in Munnar. Most of them only cater to Germans and hard core Trekkers,,,,i guess so . you have to be ECO friendly n real understanding as to how the Entire Trekking works out to be. After the deal - we left for "Cliff Huts" with a local guide. So on the way - we saw Mattupetty Dam and some local stuff. we had a Local guide to escort for the entire day. The trip from Munnar to base camp - cliff hut was a nice drive. So we were close to a point near the old Trolley - which is a natural tourist destination. After 2 hours - about 4ish-- we reached the base camp, parked the car, n head bang for the trekking to the Cliff Hut.</div> <br />
Trekking - this could be the special thing we had during Christmas - as we never thought it would be such an experience. Within 20 mnts. - all of us were panting like dogs- the extra weight we were carrying n Sujoy who found "steppe" pahari kutta. I dont blame him for this as it was his first time seeing one- lots of mist and leaches we found on the way. The Cliff hut is a private house / rent property owned by the Trackfinder Adventures. Its right up in the mountains in the Western Ghats - you have to have adrenalin to go to these places,,, not that touristic stuff which most of us do. We reached in an hour’s time- "Cliff Hut" by joe - tents, old house, mist, leaches and Steppe. I mean u have to be in such places to get the experience and see it. We relaxed for a while and then decided to do some more trekking, so i had all the gang trekked back to the base camp. The guide had to go back since he had to get some German guests coming the next day. So we trekked with him on the same path,,,,,, after a while he left us and told us to return since it was getting dark. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiujTXgaf_QIgY0iMlxcO2xY6imYZ0q54b4lgqxw8Frp5vSqCQ6XkqlU3b3cIg16qSm5XljSIp4X8jRenpHTYrkr9Wthwgtmv0Lc0j_8IMsPNBdK6srbWegwz31tOUmTEJXZNSLE9yV3iI/s1600/DSC00936.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="187" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiujTXgaf_QIgY0iMlxcO2xY6imYZ0q54b4lgqxw8Frp5vSqCQ6XkqlU3b3cIg16qSm5XljSIp4X8jRenpHTYrkr9Wthwgtmv0Lc0j_8IMsPNBdK6srbWegwz31tOUmTEJXZNSLE9yV3iI/s320/DSC00936.JPG" width="320" /></a></div></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Cliff Hut Top- Munnar</div></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">We came back to the base camp – to settle for some snacks. Our drinks were out within no time – as it was getting colder. A few pegs down our belly’s, we were enjoying our Christmas in Munnar. Amidst nature – there is nothing so beautiful that you could ever have. The leeches were causing a problem as we could not sit. Steppe – the Pahari dog was a good company. We soon settle for bed. In the night, I could hear Sujoy – can I have some food. I was totally surprised. What I later came to know was – Steppe (the Pahari Dog) had eater Sujoy’s food – and he could do nothing but have some crispy chips for dinner. </div><br />
<em><span style="color: red;">Day 3 (25th December, 2006): </span></em><br />
Sunrise was not be missed at Cliff Hut. If we had spent all this time travelling to Munnar – Sunrise was the key attraction, finally, managed to wake Sujoy-m sure – he must have cursed me out. We took a guide to take us to the Top of Cliff Hut. A small trek uphill – 30 minutes climb – was worth the visit. The Sun was not out – and we reached on time. When we reached the Top – a 360 degree of the mountains, tea gardens and the clouds below us. It was an Unbelievable an spectacular sight. I would have less words to describe this place. Absolute beauty in wilderness. <br />
<br />
Our Christmas Trip to Munnar was a success and worth the visit. <br />
<br />
As the Sun rose high, the clouds faded and we could get a better glimpse of the town. Me and Sujoy froze for moments – just to take a breeze – of the wonderful sight we had seen. <br />
<br />
We soon left from the Top to base. Nitesh and Pratima missed the sunrise as they settled for a late morning. Got ready, had heavy breakfast and bid farewell.<br />
<br />
On our way back – we stopped for some more shoots, visited a Crocodile farm (Sujoy’s interest) and head fast for Bangalore. <br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Driving back home was not an easy task. 12 hrs. Nitesh had to take break so that he could catch up on sleep, in the wee hours at night – I helped Sujoy being the navigator. We stopped near Salem for Dinner late night and reached home safe. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Wow – a trip that we will never forget and always be cherished. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"> <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs9lhQ76j1ccoO7PVyhHyJGQkYVwPNxgllqwvZ0sZdVjmzr5oHrFuGHMhtw-PhIX7E5n7y-3yorNVLGBlXklCVC75vrbSByachyt0ltlJ22DYpsOgwfqVn5UcooltnpcAyNLz37MfVYsg/s1600/lake-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="269" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs9lhQ76j1ccoO7PVyhHyJGQkYVwPNxgllqwvZ0sZdVjmzr5oHrFuGHMhtw-PhIX7E5n7y-3yorNVLGBlXklCVC75vrbSByachyt0ltlJ22DYpsOgwfqVn5UcooltnpcAyNLz37MfVYsg/s320/lake-2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sujoy,Rajiv,Nitesh & Pratima - enroute</td></tr>
</tbody></table> </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/kkrajiv/Munnar#"><span style="color: yellow;">http://picasaweb.google.com/kkrajiv/Munnar#</span></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> <br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: right;"></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij7VkS28TC37xLn5LvliUAXlCoJxQFN3yWHaK8seSdK6UeO48QikIiT2E7zmu_U7auAp2bcHW6fDBDO3_z6OKSu3ro_8xAPx4PS77HsLw5xnyZTXhrqnufPzPm_1nFzWYl4wqTKyAbX0A/s1600/rtk.BMP" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij7VkS28TC37xLn5LvliUAXlCoJxQFN3yWHaK8seSdK6UeO48QikIiT2E7zmu_U7auAp2bcHW6fDBDO3_z6OKSu3ro_8xAPx4PS77HsLw5xnyZTXhrqnufPzPm_1nFzWYl4wqTKyAbX0A/s320/rtk.BMP" style="filter: alpha(opacity=30); left: 335px; mozopacity: 0.3; opacity: 0.3; position: absolute; top: 605px; visibility: hidden;" width="320" /></a> <br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Rajivhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08169379784192051518noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363039340574765744.post-37834698477845741382010-12-02T20:54:00.000-08:002010-12-02T21:02:49.078-08:00Trin Trin - Project 6 - Toastmasters<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizkmOcHOs5sWY6xePuOiX0zGAfk8CHhgIC0SdE_xoxB6-DSXn-Zbq5tSV8av1tUDCWhw_nWGnA9heGE2iaE5ibt9DOsyNsS73FU7mw24ymjuyXahmuTCnQb6vEnNpeSE2sCLfszoG0n7s/s1600/do-not-call.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizkmOcHOs5sWY6xePuOiX0zGAfk8CHhgIC0SdE_xoxB6-DSXn-Zbq5tSV8av1tUDCWhw_nWGnA9heGE2iaE5ibt9DOsyNsS73FU7mw24ymjuyXahmuTCnQb6vEnNpeSE2sCLfszoG0n7s/s200/do-not-call.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Mobile Phones have become a necessity in today’s world. It has been wrapped as a commodity in which – everyone uses it for communication, updates, live events and business.<br />
<br />
Phones are so unique that you update what u r doing logging onto social networking sites, can transfer any amount of money, book train and airline tickets and above all – can talk to your friends and family with a minimal cost. <br />
<br />
But I am here not to speak of the benefits of a Cell phone – but how to handle those unwanted calls & trashy messages<br />
<br />
Wait, wait, wait – I think I am getting a phone call<br />
<br />
<span style="color: yellow;">Trin Trin !!!</span><br />
<br />
<em>Credit Card Conversation</em><br />
Rajiv : Hello, Rajiv here.<br />
Basanti : Hello, Good morning Sir. Am I speaking to MR . Rajiv. Sir, is it a good time to talk to you. <br />
Rajiv: Well, it’s 10 in the morning – I am trying to catch on work. Well, anyways – since you have called. Tell me.<br />
Basanti : Sir, we have Citibank Gold Credit Card – life time membership is free. As you are a value customer – would you like to avail this card.<br />
Rajiv: Basanti, you need to check. I already have an HDFC Credit Card. <br />
Basanti : Oh, Thank you sir. <br />
<br />
Trin Trin !!!<br />
<br />
<em>NGO Conversation</em><br />
Manjunath: Good Morning Sir. Manjunath calling from ‘Diksha NGO”. Sir, would be interested in donating money to an NGO.<br />
Rajiv: but, from where did you get my number. And how do you know – that I would be interested in donating money to an NGO”. <br />
Manjunath: got your number from the database. <br />
Rajiv: well, you need to check your database – cause I spent all my money on financing my MBA. Contact Mukesh Ambani – whose electricity bill last month in Antilla was a whopping 50 lakh. He will give your more to manage for the entire 10 years to come.<br />
<br />
Friends just entered into office and I’ve been showered with phone calls.<br />
<br />
Now, let’s dive deep into the problem, we have to see how to handle the unwanted calls & trashy messages – i will 1st discuss on the problems and then the solutions.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4_SjZ-c4g7DC2xp2QCnnk8dmh4q6t85Yf-YM8jKhxUG_z-BRXGu_lF4pLM9c0gIA8xrTFjnU15bbK9-NLAHcRxmDcxQ6T8P4T45Y8397UKL-BrE3RE_SkUBnzs1bttH0M_5u18m9Pmho/s1600/call-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; height: 183px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; width: 172px;"><img border="0" height="200" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4_SjZ-c4g7DC2xp2QCnnk8dmh4q6t85Yf-YM8jKhxUG_z-BRXGu_lF4pLM9c0gIA8xrTFjnU15bbK9-NLAHcRxmDcxQ6T8P4T45Y8397UKL-BrE3RE_SkUBnzs1bttH0M_5u18m9Pmho/s200/call-1.jpg" width="171" /></a><strong><span style="color: red;">Problems</span></strong><br />
1. Database: You should be wondering – where is this database, how do these people get these numbers.<br />
2. Office Hours (ethics): why do these people call during a meeting or while I am driving or even at odd hours.<br />
3. Messages: How come the message count increases from Friday to Sunday – I mean – everyone would be busy deleting those unwanted messages on weekend. <br />
4. Privacy: is my number given to everybody and anybody.<br />
<br />
Situation: Now just think for a moment. If were a handsome hunk like John Abraham or the gorgeous girl next door – Deepika Padukone –how would you maintain the secrecy of your telephone numbers. <br />
<br />
Well – you cannot. Most of these flamboyant stars change their numbers every month. This is to avoid the junk calls they get from fan followers. Well, I am not those lucky stars. I have lived in Bangalore (garden city) for 5 years with the same old number.<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: red;">Solution</span></strong><br />
1. The Database is with the Telephone operators and our very own companies who sell the database.<br />
2. Office Hours – tell them to call later. The credit cards/ offers can wait. If you attend take these calls – give them a blast or politely say – Pls. do not call.<br />
3. Messages – don’t update your numbers when giving out surveys, or while shopping. Tempted by free gift vouchers – where you have to give your numbers – never update your numbers.<br />
4. Privacy – DO NOT Call – update ur number to the do not call registry<br />
<br />
Well, I had a terrible time taking some unwanted calls. I finally got a youreka idea from some of my friends -<br />
<br />
All those unwanted numbers can be stored as Junk. Ex: Junk 1, Junk 2. <br />
So if anybody calls – you would know who is calling. At least, it will help you not taking those unwanted calls. Don’t worry - this will not take enough space.<br />
Friends, advice comes free. Take it. In today’s world, no one has time to take those unwanted calls. A few measures can save lot of time,,,<br />
<br />
Let me share a message what I received this morning,,,<br />
<br />
Why did God create the man first and only then the woman? ...... Everyone makes a draft first!!!<br />
<br />
My Experience,,<br />
As you deliver more projects in Toastmasters - you become a better and cofident speaker. Experience counts and when the adrenalin comes into you to deliver better - there is no stopping. <br />
My P6 script was one of the easiest to learn and practice. But getting on the Vocal Variety as required in the guideline is a daunting task. You really have to clear your throat to get those alterations in tones, pitch and level.<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: yellow;">Feedback</span></strong><br />
<em>Need to work on : </em><br />
Feedback session is one of the best. Thats' when you come to know - how good and bad you are. <br />
I was not at all good with the Zero position and should have given more emphasis on usage of words in the conversation. <br />
<em>Good ones: </em><br />
Facililitate vocal variety with different characters in the speech. Good pitch - pleasant & friendly. Ensured of the risks & solutions. Speech organised well - logical flow of ideas and quiet descriptive.<br />
Timing: 6 Mnts. 36 secs.<br />
Thanks to Veronica for her wonderful evaluation. <br />
<br />
<span style="color: #fff2cc;">Let's see how it goes for P7.</span>Rajivhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08169379784192051518noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363039340574765744.post-26313222223016572862010-11-30T23:03:00.000-08:002010-11-30T23:05:22.725-08:00Dusshera Cycle Ride-Banerghatta-Bom-E.City-Gottigere<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwqD0v46eTNjoeKWKXZcrABOIHpEdPqSpG3WvhsexRX21RLX4FQfEgc_yO1jr0OeWmNCHXEUsx3pwdd8L9OxJEn0HyEM4RLCyaPEXU6h0NxCb2mz24riIMomvxulYtNHejb7VZ2egH2dk/s1600/Trek_3700_005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwqD0v46eTNjoeKWKXZcrABOIHpEdPqSpG3WvhsexRX21RLX4FQfEgc_yO1jr0OeWmNCHXEUsx3pwdd8L9OxJEn0HyEM4RLCyaPEXU6h0NxCb2mz24riIMomvxulYtNHejb7VZ2egH2dk/s200/Trek_3700_005.jpg" width="200" /></a>Started off at 7am from Gottigere (Banerghatta Road) - fortunately i did not get any traffic et all - being a Dusshera Holiday. </div><br />
<br />
Banerghatta Anekal Route>><br />
A few climb to the Banerghatta National Park but smooth after that to Anekal. Downhill later>- so was belting at this section. <br />
<br />
Anekal to Bommasandra >><br />
A good stretch where i found some crazy succers looking at me - must be thinkin a mad guy lost in the highway. I was in the industrial area - where found loads on construction going on - well - everything was closed - so got a good road.<br />
<br />
Bommasandra village is pretty bad - roads are not good at all - 20mnts was terrible. By 8ish - i was on the E.City road.<br />
<br />
E.City,Begur to Gottigere>><br />
A smooth road - not much traffic at all - so till Begur - was a smooth ride. <br />
<br />
Reached home by 9:15,,,i did not carry my camera (solo rider)-wanted to be safe - not even my mobile. Hopefully i should - in the next trip. <br />
<br />
A good solo ride of 42 kms.Rajivhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08169379784192051518noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363039340574765744.post-6224611562065644332010-10-18T04:44:00.000-07:002010-10-18T04:50:01.634-07:00Swim for Life-Project 5 -Toastmasters<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGnN3nddV0_1oiB829Aa_SMRrQqojoquHGbK8augCkCcpM752qK11UipSWLP7IO2t08hIJh53amiEvA7kZi5QxCiZNlcXvRoMBz65PRLNptHDm3CyyTZQLKHnnmE_9116N9H1AokFNnxo/s1600/swimming%2520pictogram.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ex="true" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGnN3nddV0_1oiB829Aa_SMRrQqojoquHGbK8augCkCcpM752qK11UipSWLP7IO2t08hIJh53amiEvA7kZi5QxCiZNlcXvRoMBz65PRLNptHDm3CyyTZQLKHnnmE_9116N9H1AokFNnxo/s200/swimming%2520pictogram.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><strong><em><span style="color: red;">Quotes</span></em></strong><br />
<br />
“The only way to discover the limits of the possible is to go beyond into the impossible”<br />
<br />
Introduction: I am taking this opportunity to speak as the Commonwealth has just started.<br />
<br />
Recall, what was the mega event in the Beijing Olympics and who won the most medals? Michael Phelps – more than 7 gold medals. Why most Swimmers are more popular than any other sport – give it a thought. <br />
<br />
We do not know who will be the hero in Aquatics this time in Commonwealth – but I am sure – I will be a hero for now as I am giving a training session on Aquatics connected to Project 5.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: yellow;">Swimming </span>–<br />
You will be dazzled to know that I learnt swimming from You tube. It took me almost 6 months to learn swimming. But I continued from there on and never stop. <br />
<br />
It’s simple – just to remember – the 1st day you rode a bycycle. You just hop on to it and ride – there is no technique nor book to tell – how to balance. In similar ways – swimming is just jumping into the water and learn by your self. <br />
<br />
But if you really want to master the art – I will help you to learn the basics style in swimming.<br />
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><u><span style="color: yellow;">Swimming Styles</span></u></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">• Freestyle : one of most common of all styles in Swimming. Easiest and quicker to learn. Focus on action of hands and flip your legs.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEOe4_cleUr5IrXRVu2VN3khvLzkYngGsnCFDBEE9bALyDk5FjU0NmRV1woAqSfDaRlOMqhfFcErF-NZYv_0YvIzhGhb1vIxyIfgpjdKlmxNZKkk7p8AIvJkPT-qkbrkAvE1QFuYf3ing/s1600/swim-technique.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ex="true" height="158" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEOe4_cleUr5IrXRVu2VN3khvLzkYngGsnCFDBEE9bALyDk5FjU0NmRV1woAqSfDaRlOMqhfFcErF-NZYv_0YvIzhGhb1vIxyIfgpjdKlmxNZKkk7p8AIvJkPT-qkbrkAvE1QFuYf3ing/s320/swim-technique.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>• Breathstroke : think of Frog – how it swims. Just do exactly like that. <br />
<br />
• Backstroke : its similar like the Freestyle but the only thing here is – you have to swim with your back. Your head should be up – look towards the sky.<br />
<br />
• Butterfly (fly) – called the fly. Here, you use your butts as a propulsion to move forward and the hands as a butterfly to pull your body.<br />
<br />
<u><em><strong><span style="color: red;">SWOT ANALYSIS</span></strong></em></u><br />
<br />
<em>Strength</em><br />
• Moves all parts of the body without any strain<br />
<br />
• Helps to combat psychological disorders of depression, loneliness and loss of confidence<br />
<br />
• It benefits the heart, muscles, lungs, joints and mind. <br />
<br />
<em>Weakness</em><br />
<br />
• After Swimming, you are as hungry as a Dog . You can eat whatever comes your way – but will have to control.<br />
<br />
<em>Opportunities</em><br />
<br />
• More than 10 swimming pools in Bangalore<br />
<br />
• Public Swimming Pools – 6 Best – Baswangudi, Vijaynagar and Jayanagar.<br />
<br />
• Cost is Rs-16, price has not increased since last 7 years (until I was here)<br />
<br />
• For Men – 9 slots,,,Ladies – 3<br />
<br />
• All swimming pools are in a radius of 10 kms .<br />
<br />
• Karnataka Swimming Association promotes new talents and gives membership<br />
<br />
• One of best states in India to have the best infrastructure for Swimming<br />
<br />
• Hot bed for some of the National / International Swimmers – Rehan Poncha, Nisha Millet<br />
<br />
<em>Threats</em><br />
<br />
• Lot of local people access to swimming pool – unhygienic<br />
<br />
• Find the best time to swim<br />
<br />
• TV on weekends , window shopping<br />
<br />
As now, in this small session – I have given you the SWOT analysis of Swimming, the swimming styles and story – how it changed my life. <br />
<br />
Nothing comes free in today’s world – not even advice. You have to pay for it. Well out here – the Toastmasters has given me ample space to give advice. <br />
<br />
Rest it all depends on you – grab this opportunity and take the advantage. <br />
<br />
“<em><span style="color: yellow;">SWIM FOR LIFE”</span></em>Rajivhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08169379784192051518noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363039340574765744.post-41114230509144235002010-07-19T04:24:00.000-07:002010-07-19T04:26:58.592-07:00FIFA World Cup Finals<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvDDmQ_5LiW4B-X2lEU-yEHZr6hfYgSs1hI3GeDyqb3FiU2DSvr8IVwjsmh89sTDxPTLsxFrzqrIQfw08_XVd7J-IRellDxBxEvX53-r6GV-8Kss2O2jswchGB7W3INdYAkYMLH3vf4jw/s1600/2010_logo_large1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" hw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvDDmQ_5LiW4B-X2lEU-yEHZr6hfYgSs1hI3GeDyqb3FiU2DSvr8IVwjsmh89sTDxPTLsxFrzqrIQfw08_XVd7J-IRellDxBxEvX53-r6GV-8Kss2O2jswchGB7W3INdYAkYMLH3vf4jw/s200/2010_logo_large1.jpg" width="174" /></a></div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;"><em><span style="color: #cc0000;">FIFA World Cup Finals</span></em><br />
<br />
Venue: Extreme Sports Bar (B'ngta Rd,Bangalore)<br />
Audience: Rajiv, Soma, Nitesh, Pratima, Pradeep, Abdul, Mahmood<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">When i write about the venue-the only thingy missin here is that we were not in Johannesburg.Yeah– but don’t take upna Bangalore as some faltoo place. The football fever here is Full On with loads of Masti. We got to witness the crazy yelling crowd–watchin the knock out match of Germany Vs Argentina. Yeah- Me, Nitesh and Pradeep had a gala time at Extreme Sports Bar. But we had to go back home sulkin and cursing the bad play of the Argentines.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFFb21QWwEegJkSaoYyW4pDxeGWdtxiP3aYzgssLUawOmqVF49Z92Ob9sSYiVLuZvheVyIx7xLraGK5SDEUCoTRicLnJjNxw_IkWpztiBZ_FvCBfa-R2bDhVAuTbduexa-65kBqH7315U/s1600/At+the+Venue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFFb21QWwEegJkSaoYyW4pDxeGWdtxiP3aYzgssLUawOmqVF49Z92Ob9sSYiVLuZvheVyIx7xLraGK5SDEUCoTRicLnJjNxw_IkWpztiBZ_FvCBfa-R2bDhVAuTbduexa-65kBqH7315U/s320/At+the+Venue.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<em><span style="color: #cc0000;">The Finals</span></em><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">If Biscuit & Bhupi are reading this – my apologies. I had plans fixed everywhere to watch the Finals. But I did not know where I would go. The Final small wee bit adjustments – apna Jugaad came handy – we finally managed to get places to see the Finals at “Extreme Sports bar”. Well, the entire place had been booked months back but we managed somehow. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Since it was late night show, all managed to binge a bit of dinner. Me n Soma already for the Finals. After all, it’s once in 4 years and who knows where we will be after 4 years.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We all reached by 11ish and settled for a table. I don’t have enough words to express – watta an audience n ambience it was to be there. The Spanish fans dominated the atmosphere and looked like a blanket of Reds around the pub. I carried a Red Scarf gifted by my Sister in Law when I was watching one of the Bull fights in Pamplona festival. (long back)</div>As we all waited for the minutes n seconds to pass by – the whistle finally blew for the Finals to be played. Yeah, I could hear the buzzing of the Vuvuzelas and roar of the crowd – It was a FIFA Finals. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiisgezUWTgFt2qqoqhswTjvSOylg5cEfZfckbeChLzGoUrpkQeI40ZIjPwWg6ZDA0lrwridrDCebSq03Glf_6ZN6SaTl32uMvfEPT1B4p4a6uPolMQBIJzu5X4KJR9T08sUIQmxnw0K3E/s1600/We+love+it.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiisgezUWTgFt2qqoqhswTjvSOylg5cEfZfckbeChLzGoUrpkQeI40ZIjPwWg6ZDA0lrwridrDCebSq03Glf_6ZN6SaTl32uMvfEPT1B4p4a6uPolMQBIJzu5X4KJR9T08sUIQmxnw0K3E/s320/We+love+it.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We started off with our customary Big Beer Flask – donknow the actual name,,,but it carried good amount of cold beer . As we all sipped our drinks, we were glued to the giant TV screens. I wasn’t much bothered watchin the match – it was much more to see everyone there “just partying’’</div><div style="text-align: justify;">After watching Germany’s energetic, innovative and flamboyant team-we all thought they would be the Champions. But we (me and Nitesh) always wanted a South American Team to win. We lost hopes on how the South Americans were devastated. It was now only that – we relied on Spain. Thanks to Octopus’s predictions–Spain was in the Finals. And of course –anyone would be charmed to know how they played as a team and the great players like– Puyol, David Villa, Xavi, Iniesta, Pique, Torres and Casillas. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Everyone was tensed like the players -the entire world watching them playing – the world’s most watched event. The 2 teams played in traditional futbol style but ball possession was more with the “La Riojas”. It was a sight of disappointment to see so many Yellow Cards- but the match went on. We hoped – none would be there in the Spanish team –but they were a few. Robben will always remember and must be haunting his memories for the 2 misses – my heart just stopped for those seconds.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The gang got back to life once again enthusiastically with a 0-0 in the 1st half. >></div>We all sat for a post mortem and strategic analysis – nah – kidding. With all that beer in the belly – we were all waiting for some more action and a few goals. Extreme Sports Bar had an amazing music collection. <br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">The game came a bit dirty with loads of fouls. I wanted Spain to play more better what I saw in the previous game with the Germans. Ball possession and tactics were amazing. Here, the passes were not constant and moves were few. The Dutch side was a disaster. They just had crumbs of possession and they always posed a goal threat. Spain had a well marshaled back four and created a few counter attacking combinations. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Thanks to the red card by the referee as it seemed better now for the Spaniards. We were all thrilled now that Spain will surely make a goal. It was only at the end that Iniesta managed to get a goal. Wow- we are all excited and I couldn’t believe that Spain will the Champions. Well, the Dutch could not fight it back as there was not enough time.</div><br />
<span style="color: #f1c232;">Spain are finally the Champions !!!!!!</span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">The crowd went berserk, it was total madness at early morning. People were just not moving as the bar owner wanted to close down. But it was fun as majority wanted Spain to win. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">This was a moment to live for and will always be remembered until I get to see the next world cup in Brazil. </div><br />
For the moment, we can all sit and relax.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkMjpTauMsmW3V6sj4UzSAYse9FLyhSwWZLK54Nr9LbPiBdoH4L6SuKkIALVEvoESG5RSoxYYAStIOEnAtbLRiZBFsZRcEaC-5cPGVeMDeZdNiQDpuP42MtywP5fFnN51ACt7XeHswbEI/s1600/we+stood+victorious.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" hw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkMjpTauMsmW3V6sj4UzSAYse9FLyhSwWZLK54Nr9LbPiBdoH4L6SuKkIALVEvoESG5RSoxYYAStIOEnAtbLRiZBFsZRcEaC-5cPGVeMDeZdNiQDpuP42MtywP5fFnN51ACt7XeHswbEI/s400/we+stood+victorious.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Pictures <br />
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/kkrajiv/WorldCupFinals?feat=directlink">http://picasaweb.google.com/kkrajiv/WorldCupFinals?feat=directlink</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><img height="64" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt5KL3CcHYdpwQ_j2pPBbUhlRGQ6f49PfIY_te0Wm5btPRNPo9xsOnx6xE106Pt70gmmBqTEm4VTAapeyN1YTa-QxORvMshPp-73ER_NzttrLN_GWZri2w_O0JGpW8PaTVwBdEV-GtAs8/s320/At+the+Venue.jpg" style="filter: alpha(opacity=30); left: 209px; mozopacity: 0.3; opacity: 0.3; position: absolute; top: 2601px; visibility: hidden;" width="96" /> <br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Rajivhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08169379784192051518noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363039340574765744.post-4684713888917831422010-07-01T03:58:00.000-07:002010-07-01T04:05:07.599-07:00Project 4: You’re what you eat for your breakfast<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ_Ww5MPWnjbX1oCIYjneTkAahQ52AXhswNgiGAvYiEtPZzU5myRw-njMl4_LQVLaj49UsjQnzReRjvlJbtzOEUQqM7u5ZqRKfpOWnm54m-FW6cPjsg4xsplhrlaE-gIClu224JhGuVHc/s1600/breakfast_buffet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ_Ww5MPWnjbX1oCIYjneTkAahQ52AXhswNgiGAvYiEtPZzU5myRw-njMl4_LQVLaj49UsjQnzReRjvlJbtzOEUQqM7u5ZqRKfpOWnm54m-FW6cPjsg4xsplhrlaE-gIClu224JhGuVHc/s320/breakfast_buffet.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">The topic may have sent some wrong signals, but I’m not here to preach about vegetarianism or to talk about nutrition or nutrients like calcium and carbohydrates, like Fibre and Folic acid, or Vitamin A and Vitamin C.I’ll talk about something usual – that happens to our lives every day. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">But first here’s a little incident that happened some days back.</div><div class="" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
I was criss-crossing the usual monotonous morning in crazy chaotic traffic. At one signal before the office, i saw a gorgeous girl sitting in a swanky car. She was holding and enjoying a glittering glass bowlfull of colourful cut fruits, while the signal was ticking down to zero. I spontaneously started blabbering about how fast the life has become, that a person doesn’t even has time to properly relish his meal. The time is like sand slipping through the hour glass “At this my consciousness, reminded me that just two days back, how I had skipped my breakfast to finish off a weary weekly status meeting and this wasn’t a one-off incident; this has been happening every now and then for some time.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">I was reminded of this quote that I read some time back “You are what u eat for your breakfast” I really like this quote. I find this to mean much more than a quote about your eating habits. How? Let us see.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">Breakfast is the first meal of the day; it is a gateway and a foundation of effective energy elevation for the day to come. Dedicated Dieticians have proved that the breakfast provides you the necessary jump-start after 6-8 hours of sound soothing sleep. Those who skip breakfast often feel fragile, fumed and frustrated in the morning. Having a healthy and hygienic breakfast helps you get ready for the loads of tensions and the physical challenges that wait for you in the next few hours. Imagine - the smell of breakfast and coffee (smell) drifting up from the kitchen. ...Aloo Parantha's with curd,bacon/sausage ham with brown bread and Idli/Vada sambar,,hmmmmm,,</div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Isnt then this a sumptous Breakfast ?</div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Isn’t then this quote true for every other aspect of life as well?</div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">A good start is an important ingredient for success. Psychologists have proved that childhood experiences of a person have a bearing on his whole life. Good education and empowerment, for instance, is the start of a great career. And that’s why you find parents patiently queuing up for admission of their kids in the best brand of the schools.</div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Extend this example to the corporate world and you’ll find that companies, which started with a bang, continue to hold that advantage for years to come. When Sri-lanka won the World Cup Cricket in 1996, it was largely due to the flying and flamboyant start that Jayasurya provided them in the first 15 over’s in most of the matches. He deadly devastated the bowling attack and gave a mercurial rise on the run rate. It looked like it was raining 4’s and 6’s.</div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Some of the engineering marvels of the world – for example Enormous Empire State building in New York, our own beautiful historic love scintillating symbolic structure Taj Mahal and the Powerful Pyramids in Egypt – they are the greatest buildings, which have strongest foundations.</div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">My dear friends, a full fledged Foundation is like a chair, it gives legs to stand up., that’s why we say a good start is half job done.</div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #990000;">Remember your health is a personal diamond and if you take care you will swim in sea of diamonds.</span></div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><div align="justify"><br />
</div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">But is a sound start in itself sufficient to guarantee you success? Your breakfast, however nutritious it may be, can’t see you through the day by itself. You need to supplement that with well-balanced, sumptuous and healthy meals later in the day. To succeed, you do need an Arvinda de-Silva in the middle order to cash on the great start that Jayasurya provides because after a great start, it’s all the more your responsibility to make sure that you live up to the opportunities that your great start has paved for you.</div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">On similar lines, not all of us got opportunities and environment for public speaking in our school-days, but all of us are having delicious toasts of great speeches as our breakfast right here at Toastmasters.</div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">So every time you feel that you’ve missed your breakfast, just remember the girl at the traffic signal I mentioned in the beginning. You can have your breakfast when you need it and are ready for it.</div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">We don’t know that our body is a hungry dog. It is like a seed, it will never grow unless planted and nourished.<br />
So a great start is really, very important. Whenever you can, work hard, make meticulously plans, have the required training and education before you delve deep down into that dream venture so that you have a great start. Follow it up with more preparation, planning and prioritization, but if you fail to get a great start, never mind; you still can be a winner if you want to. As they say, no-one can go back and make a brand new start; anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.</div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOiqYG80K3XsJpFM5m2gR0LVBeK4whgWtTdr4P0xQ7LFyCRFmWFk8_BzZy4MRC7JK6m5GxB8mDk9MUDL37gYwGpTxbVBU88u1yvTXpVV6QZT_APO44NKxDlSUpw2lQlhPfyZmKp-bkfLM/s1600/ToastmastersLogo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="176" rw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOiqYG80K3XsJpFM5m2gR0LVBeK4whgWtTdr4P0xQ7LFyCRFmWFk8_BzZy4MRC7JK6m5GxB8mDk9MUDL37gYwGpTxbVBU88u1yvTXpVV6QZT_APO44NKxDlSUpw2lQlhPfyZmKp-bkfLM/s200/ToastmastersLogo.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://thinkexist.com/quotation/all_happiness_depends_on_a_leisurely_breakfast/210895.html"><span style="color: #cc0000;">All happiness has its foundation on a sumptuous splendid and leisurely breakfast.</span></a><span style="color: #cc0000;">” </span></div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div align="justify" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">"I assure you after your breakfast your body will be as happy as a rat with gold tooth, you will feel as fresh as a daisy and you will be as fit as fiddle."</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div align="justify"></div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
<br />
</div><br />
</div>Rajivhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08169379784192051518noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363039340574765744.post-25021494772861570672010-05-25T02:08:00.000-07:002010-07-01T04:19:55.682-07:00Sunfeast Marathon-Open 10k-Bangalore<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidPDh0WGpfzN5JPUDjCTRLe4CfYJE1usT8ghcVQ5g4KnWTNw8c0hFbfmXL27tkIfwi1MLf14D17982fXens_j45S-ZZpPGSuHbGj-NB_C6QKOY8KTAVPNChAzIYah_fkcVxwVJb2Kt5So/s1600/Image002.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485571152461374434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidPDh0WGpfzN5JPUDjCTRLe4CfYJE1usT8ghcVQ5g4KnWTNw8c0hFbfmXL27tkIfwi1MLf14D17982fXens_j45S-ZZpPGSuHbGj-NB_C6QKOY8KTAVPNChAzIYah_fkcVxwVJb2Kt5So/s320/Image002.jpg" style="cursor: hand; float: left; height: 256px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuWatWO7Dzl9TreCFTuAtgr4-_v1GPySrF7BjHTGqO7yNF4F9AjhdT2NWtq7yA_YiSbrqJP8pKztFUTDG3wbPVjoo4_Tdcn6I8fUvDwadBQ_f9LYWT_lG9RZQKI-WDPVElJCv0qbrEyeI/s1600/Image000.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485571022368671458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuWatWO7Dzl9TreCFTuAtgr4-_v1GPySrF7BjHTGqO7yNF4F9AjhdT2NWtq7yA_YiSbrqJP8pKztFUTDG3wbPVjoo4_Tdcn6I8fUvDwadBQ_f9LYWT_lG9RZQKI-WDPVElJCv0qbrEyeI/s320/Image000.jpg" style="cursor: hand; float: left; height: 244px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><em><span style="color: #990000;">Sunfeast Marathon-Bangalore-Open 10 K></span></em>This is one the mega events that any runner would look forward too. Not far behind are Cycling, Spa’s, Meditation Centers and Unisex Salons – all trying to catch the mega bucks from Bangaloreans. Well, Sunfeast had done enough homework – as they had organized the same last year on 21st May. This time – it looked really like an organized event with loads of Corporate Sponsors, thousands of participants and NGO’s running for a cause.<br />
<em><span style="color: #990000;">Preparation></span></em>Running a 10K event is no joke. A human has the endurance to run or walk the entire 10k without any practice but no one can guarantee what happens after that ,,,,,I started my preparations 15days so that I could get used to running for longs hours and able to manage the pain in the muscles. I used to leave office early to head home for a quick 1 ½ hr session of Cycling and running. I had stopped Swimming – thanks to the Summer Vacation where all the morning batches – were jam packed,,I avoided to swim and focus more on running.<br />
<em><span style="color: #990000;">In the Gym></span></em>Running on the tread mill was fun. Having a good incline on 3 n running really helped to tone up the muscles for endurance. On an average – I ran on the treadmill for 30mnts-covering a distance of 4kms. Again- Followed by a 15 minute workout on cycling. I had a target to cycle for 15mnts. and burn 200 calories.On a normal day – by the time this routine exercise was over – I really felt the body and muscles were getting toned up for the mega event.<br />
<em><span style="color: #990000;">The Trials></span></em>I did not want to focus more on the treadmill as the actual run was to happen on the outdoors. Me and Soma did a trial run on a Sunday (16th of May) to check our endurance and get the of feel of running on the road.Our house is located near Banerghatta Road – so we had ample space to run. We did a 3km run followed by a 45 minute walk to an unknown area. By the time – we got to the hill – the view was spectacular. Standing amidst a superb landscape with fresh air buzzing by,,,<br />
<em><span style="color: #990000;">Bangalore Sunfeast Marathon-10k (23rd May-2010)></span></em>I was at the Kanteerva Stadium by 8:05. A few snaps in the stadium and checking out the big crowd – I felt – the day had come – the D Day. Runners did not even spare a minute – and saw most of them – jumping the fence to start early. I did not wait too – me and Gaurav sneak out of one of the mesh an<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnakijI6z7uXRChYB-dLPM9oXvC4sDFvwrfYXyRXbjb19qtUG7yK6K0bnC53LkwekilLITx-K-7FjT4RL9JpU3mgkC6UJ_9_S9AmUIXpgXN8EcIOw4841Nj7rGVywBmK903_li7EYGXfc/s1600/the+pain+process+begins-sweat,sweat.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485571512179900850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnakijI6z7uXRChYB-dLPM9oXvC4sDFvwrfYXyRXbjb19qtUG7yK6K0bnC53LkwekilLITx-K-7FjT4RL9JpU3mgkC6UJ_9_S9AmUIXpgXN8EcIOw4841Nj7rGVywBmK903_li7EYGXfc/s320/the+pain+process+begins-sweat,sweat.jpg" style="cursor: hand; float: left; height: 269px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 179px;" /></a>d started running,,,,,,,,Ganesh (the superstar) was at the venue to flag off the ceremony. Within a few seconds -I was out of the stadium – running alone with other participants. The initial 3 kms was a killer as it seemed i was stuck in a traffic jam. I had to hip hop here n there to pave my way out for a run. After that - it was pretty smooth. As i had done a few practices earliar - i kept a target to run without a break upto 6 kms - which i did. The turn near Commercial Street was a killer. A whole U turn - and an uphill task. That's where - you get to see the real endurance of running. Sunfeast had done an excellent job on the organization part. Banners were installed every 2/3 kms with loads of stands for Drinking water and glucose.The 8th km was where i managed to get some more spirits.Here, i met some RTMCians who helping the media recording the entire Marathon. (Arun,Vishu,Vijay and Heroin). I was totally exhausted by the end, sweating it all out. The last leg <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrc9v1zn6qP_nAEpzHwyx8BFdLwt3kW3L6kcx4BQzZvclsHj2eiGXacPsXNicL_0Gp-7A04njWxjmLJgsTuVKy4vKfLXytnj5KHgv1AOCUsjiukCc4nerBj0RlgKL5Por9ztSGTAmU_nI/s1600/Did+it.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485571629605573426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrc9v1zn6qP_nAEpzHwyx8BFdLwt3kW3L6kcx4BQzZvclsHj2eiGXacPsXNicL_0Gp-7A04njWxjmLJgsTuVKy4vKfLXytnj5KHgv1AOCUsjiukCc4nerBj0RlgKL5Por9ztSGTAmU_nI/s320/Did+it.jpg" style="cursor: hand; float: left; height: 269px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 179px;" /></a>- 10km mark was a relief. I tried to do a sprint to get a better timing but couldn't. I was then at my regular pace and completed the Marathon. <span style="color: #f9cb9c;">Hurrah - Finally done it. </span></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"><br />
</div><div align="justify"><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
</div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div>Rajivhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08169379784192051518noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363039340574765744.post-5472521684438400312010-03-28T00:07:00.001-07:002010-03-31T02:43:12.053-07:00Earth Hour<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpvMMZUYHKYPmH0BJ9AAgqmQQTHukYv8mw62uX_msZcMpKigrcWCBgxt4WtKomxj2LXA3Ek7ItIxtqdgX8NdMuFrFN6NWqFotR00XNWjWA7uwx5oEPnnbM3WK2HYOxh6FwXEz6wBhRkYc/s1600/earth.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454666503878591458" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpvMMZUYHKYPmH0BJ9AAgqmQQTHukYv8mw62uX_msZcMpKigrcWCBgxt4WtKomxj2LXA3Ek7ItIxtqdgX8NdMuFrFN6NWqFotR00XNWjWA7uwx5oEPnnbM3WK2HYOxh6FwXEz6wBhRkYc/s320/earth.gif" border="0" /></a>
<div align="justify"><em>ABOUT EARTH HOUR</em></div><div align="justify">Earth Hour is the act of turning off the lights for one hour to drive home the dangers of global warming.On March 31, 2007, for one hour, Sydney made a powerful statement about the greatest contributor to global warming - coal - by turning off its lights. Over 2.2 million residents and over 2,100 businesses switched off, leading to a 10.2% energy reduction across the city. What began as one city taking a stand against global warming caught the world’s attention. </div>
<em>Purpose: "It's one hour, one day, one year. We're not saving the planet by turning the lights off for one hour." "What you are doing is adding your voice to a global call for action."
</em>
You wouldn’t realize turning off your lights at home sometimes, keeping the engine running at a traffic signal – waiting for it to go green or washing your vehicle on a weekend.
Well – all these are common things which we do in life. Above all – we forget the source.
My intranet page – had a constant message for the past 1 week for – “Earth Hour”. For few days, I completely ignored, but when I started reading articles on the movement and what is really going to happen in future – it left me in a shock.
You must have heard stories/headlines on Carbon Footprint and the <a href="http://www.globalwarming.org.in/">Global Warming</a>.
Well, we are living in a world and have realized what Global Warming is going to the “Earth”.
<strong><em>27th March, 2010
</em></strong>With a busy schedule on weekends (doing an MBA from NMIMS-Bangalore), I had to rush home after the classes got over at 6PM. Juggling in traffic took another hour – but managed to reach home.
I was all set for the “Earth Hour”. Me and Soma (my wife)had to do loads of planning in between so that we did not loose on time and miss out the necessary stuff – what you generally do on weekends – shopping.
We switched-off all our lights – in-fact the main switch at 7:30.
It was a different feeling altogether. Complete in darkness. I sensed a feeling of Darkness. Well – it’s a reality where everyone has to face. If we keep on abusing nature and carry on like this – Bangalore weather changing, New York’s Freezing winters, the Snow melting in the Himalayas !!! etc – the day is not far from chaos.
Me and Soma went to the terrace to have a look – whether people really got the message or not. Unfortunately – we stay in one of the remote locations in Bangalore – Gottigere in Banerghatta Road. All we could see and hear – was a busy Saturday.
We have done our bit for the “Earth Hour”.
At the end - It gives a sense of accomplishment.
<em><strong>Some Facts
</strong></em>Message - Earth Hour 2010
Earth Hour 2010 continues to be a global call to action to every individual, every business and every community. A call to stand up, to show leadership and be responsible for our future.
In what we hope will be the world’s largest mass participation event, <a name="1270616ea6e0b8fa_0.1_OLE_LINK1"></a>Earth Hour 2010 will be the culmination of over one billion people around the globe, in more than 6000 cities, towns turning off lights for one hour on one night. Iconic buildings and landmarks across Asia-Pacific, the Middle East and The Americas will go dark.
In India, we hope to make Earth Hour 2010 even bigger and better than last year. Besides Delhi & Mumbai , this year we are taking Earth Hour to Pune, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Bangaluru, Chennai and Kolkata, apart from several other cities where people will be encouraged to participate and turn-off the lights in their homes, offices and buildings from 8:30pm-9:30pm on Saturday, 27 March 2010. Our participation will go a long way in showing to the world that India is united on its stand against global warming and is demanding immediate action.
We want to let the world leaders know that the world is still watching, post the UN Climate Summit in Copenhagen in 2009 and that we, the citizens of the planet, demand commitment to actions that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions for the benefit of the planet.
<div align="justify"> </div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyz_iuf4E22JnMF2qPF1T55-J_u3XCqTaEQvSXOmPFoak77cVY6i33HDX6MfS0sJoAeN8rMxq1MVYTp_GU2tX1kB0NcFdoGu3I5mWxzK1qz34vXuJiZOrPuWS0SVFxNjm_Bq2sP9LJQ8o/s1600/proudly_committed.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454665933487281826" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 120px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 100px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyz_iuf4E22JnMF2qPF1T55-J_u3XCqTaEQvSXOmPFoak77cVY6i33HDX6MfS0sJoAeN8rMxq1MVYTp_GU2tX1kB0NcFdoGu3I5mWxzK1qz34vXuJiZOrPuWS0SVFxNjm_Bq2sP9LJQ8o/s320/proudly_committed.jpg" border="0" /></a>
<div></div>Rajivhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08169379784192051518noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363039340574765744.post-15669146408539275872010-03-19T04:09:00.000-07:002010-03-24T07:09:59.124-07:00International Speech Contest - Toastmasters<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihEbaQFWWk0tRMwae5WEJ6PsbC6XmHVNCfKMlmWatQDNOX9a_g-oNtOPAo359eSyUaG2w8HhHpQu-GAmfRnkgPW4281GkNi-3O3DS6vK4C3H9D1R_-9pOPb6T2gBcQ-2SCF4xYgZf42ag/s1600-h/Picture+001.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 219px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450305358758104482" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihEbaQFWWk0tRMwae5WEJ6PsbC6XmHVNCfKMlmWatQDNOX9a_g-oNtOPAo359eSyUaG2w8HhHpQu-GAmfRnkgPW4281GkNi-3O3DS6vK4C3H9D1R_-9pOPb6T2gBcQ-2SCF4xYgZf42ag/s320/Picture+001.jpg" /></a> <div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnvqsVGbhi_7_0_YioocZ9oAVXb1n4JUfbAbAuaY2edO_CtnT7nDfok-NGDstsSFFSbHSwnCX2vtq6XU5Qg6JN3gYYUTVQUS1SbahWaJCPgtifL7g2l6jiIv23fyeALmAHxCiJ0uG54ZE/s1600-h/Picture+002.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 206px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450305511743919698" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnvqsVGbhi_7_0_YioocZ9oAVXb1n4JUfbAbAuaY2edO_CtnT7nDfok-NGDstsSFFSbHSwnCX2vtq6XU5Qg6JN3gYYUTVQUS1SbahWaJCPgtifL7g2l6jiIv23fyeALmAHxCiJ0uG54ZE/s320/Picture+002.jpg" /></a></div>
<div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><em><strong></strong></em></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><em><strong></strong></em></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><em><strong></strong></em></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><em><strong></strong></em></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><em><strong></strong></em></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><em><strong></strong></em></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><em><strong></strong></em></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><em><strong></strong></em></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><em><strong></strong></em></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><em><strong></strong></em></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><em><strong></strong></em></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><em><strong></strong></em></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><em><strong></strong></em></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><em><strong>International Speech Contest in Logica- Toastmasters (27th Feb-2010) Area B5 Contest </strong></em></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><em><strong>Bangalore </strong></em></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">The moment I got a mail for the “International Speech Contest” to be held in Logica – I wondered what to speak on. Thanks to my MBA classes – I had to give a presentation the same day with my colleagues which was supposed to be evaluated. Anyways – after reading the “Big” manual for the Intl. speech contest – the biggest hurdle was getting a script ready & what to speak on. As you all know – I am a Bike/Car aficionado. In one of my assignments for Marketing – I read amazing reviews/articles on Tata Nano – how the concept came and design. I did quite a bit to formulate the script and make it into a speech. Thanks to Google – where you will have an abundance of materials on Nano. Gosh – it is such a hit that you will be swarmed by the reviews. Well – I was more involved into it. It took me – almost 2 days to finalize on the Speech ,,,and now was ready to start on with the preparations. With my MBA assignments on track - - I had a 2 page to review. Thanks to my manager – who gave me time to practice – otherwise I would have been blank on the practice sessions. I do not know how may hours I had put on the preparation for the speech,,but I do know that many prepare for more than 2 months to take part in the contest. I heard from Alex – one of buddies who in Logica Toastmasters – that one of his friends prepared for more than 6 months. Wow – what dedication. </span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><em><strong></strong></em></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><em><strong>D-Day </strong></em></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">Part-1 </span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">It was a big day for me as I had to present in the MBA class – my project on M&A and then rush to Logica for the Speech contest. The day began smooth at the Institute – but as the day approached for lunch – my heart started to beat faster and faster. I was not able to focus in any of the lectures,,finally,, it was time to leave. I had a group presentation to give with my colleagues on mergers “Emirates with Indigo Airlines”. I figured out that if I do the presentation – I will not be able to attend the Intl. speech contest. I informed my colleagues on this and headed straight for the venue. </span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">Part-2 </span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">I can still remember the drive from Koramangala to Logica (Marathalli) – I was tensed. As I got close to the venue – my hands started to sweat. A moment that i would not forget. Approx. 60/70 members were at the venue and it was nice to see Alex, Lalan and Veronica around – after all – it was a Logica event. </span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">4 more contestants were left to speak on the “Prepared Speeches” section. As the names were called out – I feared mine being the next. But, yes – it was called out – and I was there at the Dias within seconds. I looked at the crowd dazzled, I froze for a moment. Standing in front of an audience – listening to what you speak is something I will never forget. I gained momentum and spoke with confidence. Of all the hard work and preparation done – the speech went in a constant flow. I was in a rush to finish my speech – but that is where the challenge is all about-to speak at ease, confidence and above all – a powerful speech. I did not know when my speech ended. By the time – I was at the sofa relaxing – I finally had delivered my International Speech. </span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">2 more speakers delivered their speck and the results were out. Logibods were delighted when the results were out. Alex came 3rd in the “Prepared speeches” and a win too in the “Table Topics”. </span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">As the meeting got over, Sirur Sir was happy that the event held in Logica was successful. All of us - who were there present at the venue - clicked photos -Lalan,Soma(my-wife),Alex & Lata. It was an achievement for Logica Toastmasters.
</div></span><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.toastmasters.org/">http://www.toastmasters.org/</a></span>
<span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">
</div></span><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnvqsVGbhi_7_0_YioocZ9oAVXb1n4JUfbAbAuaY2edO_CtnT7nDfok-NGDstsSFFSbHSwnCX2vtq6XU5Qg6JN3gYYUTVQUS1SbahWaJCPgtifL7g2l6jiIv23fyeALmAHxCiJ0uG54ZE/s1600-h/Picture+002.jpg"></a></div>Rajivhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08169379784192051518noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363039340574765744.post-62655208420434083902010-03-02T21:57:00.000-08:002010-03-12T07:36:34.277-08:00In Varkala<div align="justify"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmfKsqtQsgpyG0QNDC7sNgvmZ3DveO4DmXylvCEXM_ZUhDxIAuNh_iNd1HxLQpbsjd6MIwt5AKNrXy0iecEWrkfwjuHQnFJJI_0fI76S1-8Kk37ztrcOd5We4RY7K2t4nx_pjuzgJh4VU/s1600-h/us.jpg"><span style="font-size:85%;"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 201px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447767719691800386" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmfKsqtQsgpyG0QNDC7sNgvmZ3DveO4DmXylvCEXM_ZUhDxIAuNh_iNd1HxLQpbsjd6MIwt5AKNrXy0iecEWrkfwjuHQnFJJI_0fI76S1-8Kk37ztrcOd5We4RY7K2t4nx_pjuzgJh4VU/s320/us.jpg" /></span></a><span style="font-size:85%;"> </span><span style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><em>13th Feb.2010 (Varkala –Edava & Kappil beach, Enjengo Fort)
</em>
After spending half a day in Varkala – just lazing around the beach gulping beer and sea fish,,, I always wanted to rent a bike as I did in Pallolem and Munnar.
I saw a most of the tourists (firangs) on a Activa, Scooty Pep or a Splendor,,, but being a die hard Bulletwala – riding those chotus would not be fun.
<em>How we got the Bike on rent,,,</em>
By now – you would be wondering why rent a bullet if I have one “the blue” dilli wala number. Well, I am on vacation and had not mood to ride down south in this short 3 day vacation.
Me and Soma enquired almost every agent in Varkala – Papanism Cliff for a bullet – but all were on rent. Dejected, we had our hopes getting the last moment. After supper, we headed to our guest house. On conversation with the owner back home – I spoke for my love on bike riding and visiting new places. One of the owner’s friend -Sunil, was an ardent Bullet lover. Well- I had to tell all that fancy story travelling here n there-Spiti n Hampi,,,I managed to persuade him and got the bike for rent for Rs.400 a day.
</span><em><span style="font-size:85%;">Riding along the Arabian Coast </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmbGJGkrip2uaWyDy9bYjjYEgzZhW89DrQIvBzgJCGspJDFOK6cduu94qRJc3u0tZaVDfYSA_Y14ECxtJhYSMihZW-azXXab-StifEa86okO3ry2u6PiCKvsK0mLLfn4WUzZ5seFfCSrs/s1600-h/shadows.jpg"><span style="font-size:85%;"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 194px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447770044616623282" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmbGJGkrip2uaWyDy9bYjjYEgzZhW89DrQIvBzgJCGspJDFOK6cduu94qRJc3u0tZaVDfYSA_Y14ECxtJhYSMihZW-azXXab-StifEa86okO3ry2u6PiCKvsK0mLLfn4WUzZ5seFfCSrs/s320/shadows.jpg" /></span></a><span style="font-size:85%;">
</span></em><span style="font-size:85%;">After a quick swim in Papanasam beach (Varkala) , few checks on the bike and headed straight for the petrol bunk in Varkala. Had some amazing crunchy Poori’s n vada in local restaurant and headed for the new journey. </span></span><span style="font-family:verdana;">
<span style="font-size:85%;">Well, as passerby’s stated – its one place where you get to see the Arabian Sea and the backwaters. A similar landscape what I had spotted while backpacking to Go-Karna. (Konkan route) I did not waste a single minute getting there as the day was getn warmer,,,,Wow – I just can’t tell what a feeling it was while we arrived at Kappil beach.
</div></span><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:85%;">As we crossed the bridge – we turned to a straight rode – to me left was the mighty blue Arabian sea and to my right was the greeny Kappil backwaters. Me and Soma just thought for a moment – are we here or is it a dream. I could here the gush of waves hitting the Kappil beach shores. Out was a camera - managed to click loads of photos in all directions. We went further ahead – along the beach on bike to get some good pics. En route back to Varkala – we visited the private harbour – a new houseboat at anchor.
As it got humid – we stopped at a local chai shop at 1 for Nimbu Pani. Some tips from the locals – Edava beach was worth a visit. Kappil Beach to Edava beach is a mere 3 kms by road .
</span><span style="font-size:85%;"><em>Edava Beach
</em>We ventured deep in the villages to figure out Edava,,,few wrong turns – but we managed to locate. We spotted an Ayurvedic Spa near the beach – I spotted a well paved track along the sea shore,,after a break at the nearby refreshment area, we headed on our journey.
</div></span><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:85%;"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447769863881323074" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTtrcZCyjwMuSazE3hz2QYp-omwP7nEkVsAIybj5jSuQmDOv3uqNklwSkioMRE9pehv3bIPdon2wH9bJmA3hbnWMwLdkDAfHFxma1N-zCRTUizEZbcHD8mGubWPczkt2vibuy236w00cM/s320/us-beach.jpg" />Biking along that 3 kms sea shore route was unbelievable. A bit scary - as I have a cliff to my left with the Arabian Sea. With the Standard 350 on 1st gear, we rode along the lonesome paved track to get some of the best glimpses of my riding times,,,yes – it reminded me of the blue-turquoise lake of Pangong Tso,,,it was an absolute blue out there with the rhyming of the waves,,,a few bright colored boats could be spotted along the beach. Me and Soma just loved sitting in the shade and enjoyed the view. I guess – the rented bike helped us visiting these places – of all the days I stayed in Varkala – I heard only a few visiting these places.
Varkala, Enjengo Fort & Golden Island
We were exhausted by 3ish – and wanted to hit back to Papanasam beach (Varkala). Enroute – we wanted to stop midway to have the local stuff – sea fish. Cudo’s to the friendly people – that we got a very good restaurant midway. Well – lunch time was over – so we had to request them for a meal. The cook gave us various options on fish – and so we choose. We had a good meal and headed for Enjengo fort.
Enjengo Fort
Enjengo Fort is one of the prime watch towers in the Chennai region. You will have to clim 225 steps to get a good view of the top. Well – once we reached, it was worth a sight. It seems God had enough time to make this place better – lush green landscape with loads of Coconut trees overlooking the Arabian sea.
A few tips from a localite – we headed for Golden Island to check out on the sunset.
Golden Island
Well, if you are in God’s Own Country – not all places will be perfect as it may seem. As the name sounds – there was nothing Golden,,, Yes- but an island in the backwaters. We travelled quite a distance to get there,,,we stopped on the main bridge to have a glance of the Golden Island. A perfect evening to spend with Soma – as we got to see an amazing sunset. What I liked – was most people were chit chatting on the bridge – and getting loads of masala of what happened during their day. </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrWTbCka40saduUfRsL9tK3giYNViYn6wpJtGrt61aRoqqEFGJz22C4XYOnsEA56SBgfo-tWGhW6nUCG_cYTFya8q3BlzRtQVgucRDt5rU2OFDuZqyTahBaPawSBpJ9LCkYHmYUg-4Kk8/s1600-h/me.jpg"><span style="font-size:85%;"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 214px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447769744584122306" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrWTbCka40saduUfRsL9tK3giYNViYn6wpJtGrt61aRoqqEFGJz22C4XYOnsEA56SBgfo-tWGhW6nUCG_cYTFya8q3BlzRtQVgucRDt5rU2OFDuZqyTahBaPawSBpJ9LCkYHmYUg-4Kk8/s320/me.jpg" /></span></a><span style="font-size:85%;">
After Sunset, we left for the Varkala beach.
Me and Soma really enjoyed this short trip. Thanks to Sunil for giving his bike on rent.
I believe sometimes – the brand of owning a Bullet really helps you sometime.
</span><span style="font-size:85%;"><em>Statistics.
</em>Total Distance : 120 Kms
Places Visited : Varkala ( Papanism Cliff & Beach , Edava & Kappil Beach, Enjengo Fort and Varkala Town.
Bike Rent & Petrol : Rs600.00
Approx Temp: 33*C
Humidity: 85%
Happy Viewing: </span><a href="http://picasaweb.google.co.in/kkrajiv/InVarkala?feat=directlink"><span style="font-size:85%;">http://picasaweb.google.co.in/kkrajiv/InVarkala?feat=directlink</span></a><span style="font-size:85%;">
</div></span></span>Rajivhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08169379784192051518noreply@blogger.com