Lakshmi was a bundle of mixed feelings that evening. She just realized that her guardian Muthu, was taking her to the city - Chennai. Not that Lakshmi had a cheerful life in Pazhanjanallur, her native village, but, she had lived there all through her life and got used to it. Though, she had to slog it out for food, get beaten up and chided by Muthu, she could escape into the landscape, roam around with friends and return late in the evening. Her friends, Shenbagam and Gauri had also gone to Chennai, but she never heard from them again. Being an orphan, she didn't think she had much choice. However, she was excited about the journey! This is her first long travel or probably the first travel outside the village. Though, she was disappointed about Muthu taking her in a cement truck, she was thrilled enough to stay awake the whole night.
It was obvious, that Muthu was going to sell her off or hire her out to some domestic household in the city. Her only prayer was that, she should get a kind master. The truck dropped them off in some road at around 4.00 AM and the driver told Muthu, that they could walk to the house. They went to a tea shop and Muthu bought a tea for himself. He cared a damn about Lakshmi's hunger. Her sleeplessness, hunger and fear had made her so weak and meek, that she could hardly look around.
They walked for about an hour and the only thing that excited Lakshmi a little was the numerous film posters. Film posters were rare in Pazhanjanallur. Even if they stuck a few, it would be at an un-reachable height or the kids, would have already torn them to stick it in their houses. Lakshmi thought, when I am left alone, I should definitely come looking for these posters.
Muthu and Lakshmi finally reached a huge gate around 5.00AM. The one hour walk in hunger had made Lakshmi so tired, that she almost fainted. She feebly heard Muthu talking with the security guard. After about 10 mins, they were called in. She met her master, Srinivasan sir, and his wife, Kamala amma, at the enterance. They had a kind and sympathetic look on their face. Kamala amma almost immdeiately realised that Lakshmi was tired, hungry and scared. They summoned Padma akka, their cook, and told her to take Lakshmi to the out-house. When Laksmi last saw Muthu, he was counting currency notes with a sly grin. 'Good Riddens Muthu Anna' she thought!
The out-house was relatively very clean and Lakshmi stayed there for a couple of days. She realized that her master was giving her time to muster energy. They gave her food at regular hours and though it was left-overs and dry food, she thought, it was the best. She had never had better food in her life. In these 2 days, she understood that there were 2 kids also in the house - Rahul and Raji - Her master's kids. Lakshmi loved to play with the kids, but they didn't play with her. They go to school and in the evenings, occasionally peeped into the out-house. Lakshmi decided that she should befriend them soon and probably they will take her out.
Though Lakshmi didn't have a chance to step out of the house, she thought Chennai was the best thing that ever happened in life. She decided to be very good and earn her master's goodwill. Just when she thought her life was going smooth, she heard Kamala amma talking to her husband. She said, 'Our neighbor, Krishnan, wanted to know if Lakshmi could go to his house for clearing their garden. Chinni and Raja from the Police Colony are also going. Shall I send Lakshmi over? He wants to clear it out completely and plant new plants' Srini sir just nodded his approval. He also added, 'Tell them to have an eye on her and keep the gate closed. I don't wanna go searching for her in the roads'
With all the necessary warnings, Lakshmi was sent to Krishnan's house. With all the nurturing and rest, Lakshmi was looking very beautiful. The phrase 'Lakshmi-kalai'* fitted her aptly. Kamala amma and Padma akka mentioned that, and Lakshmi was proud. She was thrilled about meeting Chinni and Raja. ‘They must be like me, but living in the city for a longer time’, she thought.
When Lakshmi went there, Chinni and Raja were engrossed in their work. It was obvious, that Chinni and Raja were friends and that it might take some time for Lakshmi to break the ice. But she was determined in making friends with them. Chinni and Raja lifted their heads up, looked at her. Chinni went back to work, but Lakshmi could see from the corner of her eyes that Raja was looking at her. She also realized that Chinni was turning green with envy at Raja’s new-found interest.
It was a full day’s work, and throughout the day, Raja was trying to make a pass at her. He seemed to be too interested in her and wanted her to share her Pazhanjanallur experiences with him. Raja also offered to help Lakshmi in places where the grass was very rough and sharp. Though Lakshmi thought Raja was smart and handsome, she did not want to give him any ideas. She didn’t want to get into any trouble the new place. What will her master’s family think of her?!
Lakshmi was very happy that day and came back home hopping. Just when she was passing by the patio, she heard Kamala amma talk. Kamala amma told her husband, ‘Annamma from the police colony had come. She said that Raja seemed to be okay with Lakshmi. We could send Lakshmi to their place whenever we want’
Lakshmi was SHOCKED to the core!!! Yes, she liked Raja and he was sweet to her. But, Isn’t this too early? How can Kamala amma ever think of this? What did she come to Chennai for? Lakshmi got all worried. She couldn’t concentrate on anything else for the rest of the night. She sat there, alone thinking.
In the morning, Lakshmi was very clear. She had realized, that being an orphan, sold to somebody in Chennai, she does not have too much of a choice. She also realized that she was indeed bought and brought for this. She will have to succumb and prove her worth for survival. Does a ‘karavai-pasumaadu’** from Pazhanjanallur have any other choice?
She thought to herself, ‘Should demand Raja for some film posters. Unlike dry hay and left-overs, they are very tasty and spicy'.
*'Lakshmi-kalai' - The beauty of wealth and serenity in one's face
**'karavai-pasumaadu' - a Cow that gives milk
Thursday, December 29, 2005
Tuesday, December 27, 2005
Kids say the Darndest Things - 2
Did you know that 'Whose dress is this?' is a probable interview question and the kid is expected to answer 'Mine' and not "my", "my's", "Enadhu' or "En's"!! We should check with these interviewers if they are saying 'Mr. X and I are conducting interviews' correctly and not stating 'Me & X'!!
This pattern, definitely needs some re-thinking! What are we testing here? Why are we testing the depth in a foreign language? Aren't we supposed to check only the kid's mental ability? Is this a gimmick for elimination? If a 3 year old has mastered a foreign language so much, why would it need admissions to LKG? What is left for the school to teach in Kindergarten?
Above all, what if the kid is wearing his/her sister's or cousin's dress?
On a lighter note, here is another interview saga
The interviewer had to rate the candidate on 'responsiveness to command?!' (Is this some interview for military camp? or a dog-training session?) So, threw a tennis-ball across the room and asked the tiny-tot to bring it back to her!
The candidate comfortably sitting in her chair, amidst some dolls, snapped back, almost spontaneously, with an air of sarcasm: "Nee dhane thooki potte? Neeye eduthuko!"
Needless to say, she got her admission in this school! She must have scored a 100/10 for 'responsiveness' and another 100/10 for 'command' though not together.
This pattern, definitely needs some re-thinking! What are we testing here? Why are we testing the depth in a foreign language? Aren't we supposed to check only the kid's mental ability? Is this a gimmick for elimination? If a 3 year old has mastered a foreign language so much, why would it need admissions to LKG? What is left for the school to teach in Kindergarten?
Above all, what if the kid is wearing his/her sister's or cousin's dress?
On a lighter note, here is another interview saga
The interviewer had to rate the candidate on 'responsiveness to command?!' (Is this some interview for military camp? or a dog-training session?) So, threw a tennis-ball across the room and asked the tiny-tot to bring it back to her!
The candidate comfortably sitting in her chair, amidst some dolls, snapped back, almost spontaneously, with an air of sarcasm: "Nee dhane thooki potte? Neeye eduthuko!"
Needless to say, she got her admission in this school! She must have scored a 100/10 for 'responsiveness' and another 100/10 for 'command' though not together.
Saturday, December 24, 2005
Dance of Destiny - II
Amma said that it will be impossible for 3 adults to manage 9 kids. As that made so much sense, I didn’t press any further. So we started playing, amidst two cricket teams, few dogs, a karate class and many on-lookers. The next one hour was full of fun, laughter, joy, tussles. I too had become a kid amidst the group.
7.50 AM
Amma realized that she has to go home to make breakfast. She thought it would be un-reasonable to let the guests, my aunts, cook. She asked us to wrap up, and surprisingly, none of the kids protested! They were arguing, watching the ships and discussing about harbors and light houses, but were walking towards the car. We reached our car, packed ourselves inside and started in about 10 mins.
Harish(7th Std.) had read about the harbor in his lessons, and asked dad if we could take a closer look at it. Dad was driving on the Beach road, and thought we could just go further down, closer to the port and then go home. We crossed the Napier’s bridge went straight, but by now, amma was getting worried. She wanted to get back ASAP and nudged dad. Dad showed the cranes at a distance and told the kids, ‘It’s kind of misty there and they wouldn’t let us inside’ and turned to go home.
After about 40 minutes drive, we reached home at 8.40. All the people at home, by then had got some news about water entering the city. They also had heard about the earthquake and asked us if we spotted anything different in the beach. We assured that the beach was calm and it could all be rumors.
In about an hour, when there was enough information about the heartbreaking disaster, we just couldn’t believe it. We saw that Sea Goddess had attempted to swallow the same beach road, the same Vivekanada hall! That day, that hour, that minute, that moment was actually gifted to us by God! Till date, am in a trance and it all feels like a magic!
· If my brother had gone jogging, we would have waited for him
· If Amma had agreed to go to the waters?
· If the kids had pleaded for extra time?
· If we had gone to the harbor?
· If amma didn’t have to make breakfast?
The beach scene as we left it was so vivid in the memory. We prayed and wished that everyone should have left just as we did.
It is one year now, and I share this miracle with heartfelt Thanks and pay homage to the victims. Praying to God to give all the strength and support to the surviving…
7.50 AM
Amma realized that she has to go home to make breakfast. She thought it would be un-reasonable to let the guests, my aunts, cook. She asked us to wrap up, and surprisingly, none of the kids protested! They were arguing, watching the ships and discussing about harbors and light houses, but were walking towards the car. We reached our car, packed ourselves inside and started in about 10 mins.
Harish(7th Std.) had read about the harbor in his lessons, and asked dad if we could take a closer look at it. Dad was driving on the Beach road, and thought we could just go further down, closer to the port and then go home. We crossed the Napier’s bridge went straight, but by now, amma was getting worried. She wanted to get back ASAP and nudged dad. Dad showed the cranes at a distance and told the kids, ‘It’s kind of misty there and they wouldn’t let us inside’ and turned to go home.
After about 40 minutes drive, we reached home at 8.40. All the people at home, by then had got some news about water entering the city. They also had heard about the earthquake and asked us if we spotted anything different in the beach. We assured that the beach was calm and it could all be rumors.
In about an hour, when there was enough information about the heartbreaking disaster, we just couldn’t believe it. We saw that Sea Goddess had attempted to swallow the same beach road, the same Vivekanada hall! That day, that hour, that minute, that moment was actually gifted to us by God! Till date, am in a trance and it all feels like a magic!
· If my brother had gone jogging, we would have waited for him
· If Amma had agreed to go to the waters?
· If the kids had pleaded for extra time?
· If we had gone to the harbor?
· If amma didn’t have to make breakfast?
The beach scene as we left it was so vivid in the memory. We prayed and wished that everyone should have left just as we did.
It is one year now, and I share this miracle with heartfelt Thanks and pay homage to the victims. Praying to God to give all the strength and support to the surviving…
Friday, December 23, 2005
Dance of Destiny - I
December 25th 2004 - Saturday 6:30 PM...
Our home was filled with laughter and fun! It had been temporarilyconverted into a play school, with kids ranging from age groups5-15.classes 1 to 11. About 8 of them, my cousins, had come down to myhouse for a vacation. We also had a next generation kid, my nephew(Ist Std). I was at home exhausting my holidays, playing with the crowd and managing them.
In the evening, Chintoo, my 6th std cousin, makes a request. 'Akka. Canwe go to the beach tomorrow morning? It will be nice to see the sunrise andplay in the beach'. All the other cousins second it. My nephew is alreadylooking at his mother for permission. Soon the request turned into a plead and I agreed.
My brother said he'll also join us and would go jogging while I mind the kids. As it was too big and naughty a group to manage, Amma said, she'll join and dad agreed to drive us down. The kids were too excited, had a quick dinner, and were ready to sleep! They had challenges as to who will be up first by 5.30 and wake up the rest of them. They warned their parents not to over-sleep. We stretched out big mats in the living room and with all the kids around I was in deep sleep.
Around 4.00 AM, chotu (2nd std) wakes me up, and I thought it was for nature call…but he asks 'Is it time? Can I brush?' I cajoled him to sleep and almost closed my eyes. I could hear whispers and giggles. The kids are already up and waiting to get ready.
December 26th 2004 6.30 AM
My brother opted out and went back to sleep. We were all ready, about 12 of us, stuffed ourselves in one car and started off to Marina. The sun was just out, but it still was a calm day. We went through Radhakrishnan Road, parked the car opposite Ice house (Vivekananda Hall) and walked to the sands at around 6.50 AM.
The kids have brought a big ball and a frisbee and are getting ready for a match. Amma says ‘Just 2 hours…not more than that’. We started playing, amidst a cricket team, a few walkers and many other kids.
Under popular demand, I asked my mom, ‘Amma, can we just walk up to the waters?’
To be Contd.
Our home was filled with laughter and fun! It had been temporarilyconverted into a play school, with kids ranging from age groups5-15.classes 1 to 11. About 8 of them, my cousins, had come down to myhouse for a vacation. We also had a next generation kid, my nephew(Ist Std). I was at home exhausting my holidays, playing with the crowd and managing them.
In the evening, Chintoo, my 6th std cousin, makes a request. 'Akka. Canwe go to the beach tomorrow morning? It will be nice to see the sunrise andplay in the beach'. All the other cousins second it. My nephew is alreadylooking at his mother for permission. Soon the request turned into a plead and I agreed.
My brother said he'll also join us and would go jogging while I mind the kids. As it was too big and naughty a group to manage, Amma said, she'll join and dad agreed to drive us down. The kids were too excited, had a quick dinner, and were ready to sleep! They had challenges as to who will be up first by 5.30 and wake up the rest of them. They warned their parents not to over-sleep. We stretched out big mats in the living room and with all the kids around I was in deep sleep.
Around 4.00 AM, chotu (2nd std) wakes me up, and I thought it was for nature call…but he asks 'Is it time? Can I brush?' I cajoled him to sleep and almost closed my eyes. I could hear whispers and giggles. The kids are already up and waiting to get ready.
December 26th 2004 6.30 AM
My brother opted out and went back to sleep. We were all ready, about 12 of us, stuffed ourselves in one car and started off to Marina. The sun was just out, but it still was a calm day. We went through Radhakrishnan Road, parked the car opposite Ice house (Vivekananda Hall) and walked to the sands at around 6.50 AM.
The kids have brought a big ball and a frisbee and are getting ready for a match. Amma says ‘Just 2 hours…not more than that’. We started playing, amidst a cricket team, a few walkers and many other kids.
Under popular demand, I asked my mom, ‘Amma, can we just walk up to the waters?’
To be Contd.
Thursday, December 22, 2005
Kids say the Darndest Things
Mrs.and Mr.Dhanashekar, in our apartment looked terribly worried! Tomorrow was their only daughter's maiden interview. This interview would decide her destiny! This interview will pave way for her future. Yes, it is the time of the year for LKG admissions! They have applied for a few schools in the neighborhood, and are in the nail-biting phase - waiting for interview cards. The couple are in hypertension and the kid is very kiddish!
It is a daily routine of this couple to revise alphabets, numbers, shapes, colors, animals, names, what not! and prepare the toddler for the interview. The kid is totally oblivious to the importance, but is enjoying all the attention and sometimes gets irritated when her mom scolds her for not identifying septagon?!!
On the D-Day, the toddler left home proud, with the entire apartment complex wishing her the best. Her parents are giving last minute tips
Dad : Dhairyama paesanum seriya?
Mom : Nee seriya sollita, amma narya toys vaangi tharen
Dad : Kutty chamathu aache! Azhave koodadhu
Mom : Avanga edhu kaetaalum theriadhu nu solladhe da chellam.
Dad : yosichu badhil sollu, mudinja udane ice-cream saapida polaam..
Junior Dhanashekar shook her head and was enjoying this!
After a couple of hours, they came back, parents looking a little grim, and the junior licking an icecream . The interview went okkkay...and an excerpt from that:
Interviewer : (showing a red color paper) Idhu enna color?
Toddler : Apple color
Interviewer thinks, may be it's because I am showing it in a paper..points a red color chair and repeats 'Idhu enna color?'
Toddler : Apple color
Interviewer : seri, apple enna color?
Toddler : Indha chair color
Interviewer : !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Idhu, karagaatakaran, vaazhaipazha joke madhiri irundhaalum, Junior Dhanashekar got her admission! and according to me, she has got the wisdom of a management graduate! Never say 'I don't know'!!
It is a daily routine of this couple to revise alphabets, numbers, shapes, colors, animals, names, what not! and prepare the toddler for the interview. The kid is totally oblivious to the importance, but is enjoying all the attention and sometimes gets irritated when her mom scolds her for not identifying septagon?!!
On the D-Day, the toddler left home proud, with the entire apartment complex wishing her the best. Her parents are giving last minute tips
Dad : Dhairyama paesanum seriya?
Mom : Nee seriya sollita, amma narya toys vaangi tharen
Dad : Kutty chamathu aache! Azhave koodadhu
Mom : Avanga edhu kaetaalum theriadhu nu solladhe da chellam.
Dad : yosichu badhil sollu, mudinja udane ice-cream saapida polaam..
Junior Dhanashekar shook her head and was enjoying this!
After a couple of hours, they came back, parents looking a little grim, and the junior licking an icecream . The interview went okkkay...and an excerpt from that:
Interviewer : (showing a red color paper) Idhu enna color?
Toddler : Apple color
Interviewer thinks, may be it's because I am showing it in a paper..points a red color chair and repeats 'Idhu enna color?'
Toddler : Apple color
Interviewer : seri, apple enna color?
Toddler : Indha chair color
Interviewer : !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Idhu, karagaatakaran, vaazhaipazha joke madhiri irundhaalum, Junior Dhanashekar got her admission! and according to me, she has got the wisdom of a management graduate! Never say 'I don't know'!!
Wednesday, December 21, 2005
Pledge
How many of us Indians, remember the school pledge?
For some reason, I tried recollecting, but couldn't go beyond 3 lines. Then, I wondered, how many might remember and started asking. After sometime, this curiosity soon became a quest. I conducted a quick survey at work and friends circle. I wanted to identify at least one person who remembers it and publish his/her name here. After a 3 hour hunt and asking about 52 people, there was one...just one. I proudly present her, 'Roopa Sudarshan'!! my buddy and a former NCC cadet! Did she remember it from school or NCC? I didn't probe...But Hats Off to her!
I felt a little ashamed for not remembering it and memorized it up. Though, this is more a test on memory than a test on patriotism, I think it will definitely be nice if everybody can live upto the pledge :-) India would definitely become a better place to live in!
Before you go further, stop and try recollecting...and if you fail, here it is:
India is my country.
All Indians are my brothers and sisters. I love my country, and I am proud of its rich and varied heritage.
I shall always strive to be worthy of it.
I shall give my parents, teachers and all elders respect and treat everyone with courtesy.
To my country and my people, I pledge my devotion.
In their well being and prosperity alone lies my happiness.
Jai Hind!
For some reason, I tried recollecting, but couldn't go beyond 3 lines. Then, I wondered, how many might remember and started asking. After sometime, this curiosity soon became a quest. I conducted a quick survey at work and friends circle. I wanted to identify at least one person who remembers it and publish his/her name here. After a 3 hour hunt and asking about 52 people, there was one...just one. I proudly present her, 'Roopa Sudarshan'!! my buddy and a former NCC cadet! Did she remember it from school or NCC? I didn't probe...But Hats Off to her!
I felt a little ashamed for not remembering it and memorized it up. Though, this is more a test on memory than a test on patriotism, I think it will definitely be nice if everybody can live upto the pledge :-) India would definitely become a better place to live in!
Before you go further, stop and try recollecting...and if you fail, here it is:
India is my country.
All Indians are my brothers and sisters. I love my country, and I am proud of its rich and varied heritage.
I shall always strive to be worthy of it.
I shall give my parents, teachers and all elders respect and treat everyone with courtesy.
To my country and my people, I pledge my devotion.
In their well being and prosperity alone lies my happiness.
Jai Hind!
Friday, December 16, 2005
Thoongu Moonji
Some characters get etched in your mind even before you know their names, and she is just one. I have grown all my life seeing her live across the road and I still don't know if she has a name! Everybody in the neighborhood refers to her as thoongu moonji(Sleepy faced) and so is she known. She sits there all day long, sells flowers, fruits and greens occasionally which people seldom buy. She has got her select customers and will readily give it to them even for free. But, she never complains.
What surprises me the most is her ability to follow a rigid time table! She runs a guest house in the locality and works on an accurate clock! I have never seen her sleeping in the mornings. She is usually up before almost everybody in that neighborhood. There are many families living in her guest house.. They are small portions, but many of them. She primarily rents it out to folks who are early-birds, working on early morning shifts. Though she is woken up as early as 3.00 AM or 4.00 AM by her tenants, she doesn't yell at them. She is such a sweet landlady. My mom, who has seen her in the neighborhood for 30 years now, never recollects one sour instance, when this land-lady got angry and asked her tenants out! I have never seen her chat with anybody either. In most of the conversations, gossips and chit-chats, she is only a silent spectator. She also does baby-sits when her inmates are off to work. Mostly, she doesn't agree to feed them, but definitely makes sure they don't get hurt. She is such a gem and I adore her..
In a way, am jealous of her...jealous of her sleep.. Rain or shine, storm or calm, she starts dozing by 6.00 PM and is in a deep slumber by 7.00! In my childhood, I would be surprised about that. Everyday, at around 6.30 in the evening, it was my habit to check is she has gone off to sleep and most likely, she would have. When I am strictly not allowed to go to bed by 6.00 PM (Godly hours - Sridevi enters you home and you shouldn't be sleeping), however tired I am, she just doesn't care!! Probably, that is why, everybody in the neighborhood calls her 'Thoongu moonji' (sleepy face), but she cares a damn about it!
For all her sweetness, it is quite unfair, people call her thoongu moonji! But she never complains, coz, she is a tree...Thoongu moonji maram (Rain tree) near my house!!
PS:
Customers - Cows and Goats
Guest house - Branches
Tenants - Birds
small portion - Nests
What surprises me the most is her ability to follow a rigid time table! She runs a guest house in the locality and works on an accurate clock! I have never seen her sleeping in the mornings. She is usually up before almost everybody in that neighborhood. There are many families living in her guest house.. They are small portions, but many of them. She primarily rents it out to folks who are early-birds, working on early morning shifts. Though she is woken up as early as 3.00 AM or 4.00 AM by her tenants, she doesn't yell at them. She is such a sweet landlady. My mom, who has seen her in the neighborhood for 30 years now, never recollects one sour instance, when this land-lady got angry and asked her tenants out! I have never seen her chat with anybody either. In most of the conversations, gossips and chit-chats, she is only a silent spectator. She also does baby-sits when her inmates are off to work. Mostly, she doesn't agree to feed them, but definitely makes sure they don't get hurt. She is such a gem and I adore her..
In a way, am jealous of her...jealous of her sleep.. Rain or shine, storm or calm, she starts dozing by 6.00 PM and is in a deep slumber by 7.00! In my childhood, I would be surprised about that. Everyday, at around 6.30 in the evening, it was my habit to check is she has gone off to sleep and most likely, she would have. When I am strictly not allowed to go to bed by 6.00 PM (Godly hours - Sridevi enters you home and you shouldn't be sleeping), however tired I am, she just doesn't care!! Probably, that is why, everybody in the neighborhood calls her 'Thoongu moonji' (sleepy face), but she cares a damn about it!
For all her sweetness, it is quite unfair, people call her thoongu moonji! But she never complains, coz, she is a tree...Thoongu moonji maram (Rain tree) near my house!!
PS:
Customers - Cows and Goats
Guest house - Branches
Tenants - Birds
small portion - Nests
Thursday, December 15, 2005
Pongal Recipe
Ferrari, for you to try it out.
Ingredients:
Green Rice (Goldie preferably)* 1 cup
Moong Dal(Paithamparupu) 1/3 cup
All the below ones as per your wish..
pepper
cumin seeds
Ghee
cashew
curry leaves
Ginger
salt
Directions:
1. Mix rice and moong dal add 3 cups of water and pressure cook for 4 whistles
2. Take this out and mix it well enough to mash it out slightly
3. Semi-powder pepper and cumin seeds(If you don't feel like powdering, use the full ones)
4. Fry them in little ghee with curry leaves and add it to rice,dal mix
5. chop or paste ginger and add it as well
6. Add salt and and mix everything together
7. Add some extra ghee and mix them again
8. Fry cashews in ghee again and garnish with it
Voila! your Venn Pongal is ready!
Important Note:
1. Don't ever do a naivedhyam of this. Enaku Dheivakutham aagidum
2. Try it on some other human being before you taste.
Caution: Testing on animals is strictly prohibited and is a punishable crime
Disclaimer: This reccipe is just the way I make and might not result in Venn Pongal. For better recipe, refer the net.
*Pachai arisi(ponni preferably)
Ingredients:
Green Rice (Goldie preferably)* 1 cup
Moong Dal(Paithamparupu) 1/3 cup
All the below ones as per your wish..
pepper
cumin seeds
Ghee
cashew
curry leaves
Ginger
salt
Directions:
1. Mix rice and moong dal add 3 cups of water and pressure cook for 4 whistles
2. Take this out and mix it well enough to mash it out slightly
3. Semi-powder pepper and cumin seeds(If you don't feel like powdering, use the full ones)
4. Fry them in little ghee with curry leaves and add it to rice,dal mix
5. chop or paste ginger and add it as well
6. Add salt and and mix everything together
7. Add some extra ghee and mix them again
8. Fry cashews in ghee again and garnish with it
Voila! your Venn Pongal is ready!
Important Note:
1. Don't ever do a naivedhyam of this. Enaku Dheivakutham aagidum
2. Try it on some other human being before you taste.
Caution: Testing on animals is strictly prohibited and is a punishable crime
Disclaimer: This reccipe is just the way I make and might not result in Venn Pongal. For better recipe, refer the net.
*Pachai arisi(ponni preferably)
Maadhangalil aval Margazhi!
It's Margazhi tomorrow! and for me, Margazhi is so full of mixed experiences!! Just recollecting some of them. My Margazhi Autograph!!
School days:
This is half-yearly exams time, with a cold climate that you never feel like getting off the bed....I usually, give myself 5 mins leverage and continue to extend that. 5 mins..5 more mins, 5 more mins... But the problem is, my big mommy is up by 4.00!! She whacks, and wakes me up! She, not only makes sure that I am out of bed, but also ensures, I don't doze off at the study table.. On the study table, I'll almost close my eyes and suddenly hear her voice...
'Yadhvi!! Ethana dhadavai koopidaradhu? Stove ai niruthu..sonnen illa? 4 whistles ku apuram niruthunu!! Naivedhya Pongal ippo koozh aagidum... padikaama thoongariya?!!!'
(uphh..1st whistle kaetuchu...2nd, 3rd, 4th? appo naan ZZzzzz...)
College Days:
In her anxiousness to make me get some involvement into the culture and customs, my mom passed a law. I should get up at 4.00 and draw a kolam at the entrance before my mom is ready for prayers. I agreed!(as though I can refuse..)the deal being, I can go back to sleep after finishing my kolam! When I agreed, little did I realise that I was falling into a trap!
As it is am bad at drawing! Idhule, paadhi thookathile, ezhundhu, dots count panni vechu, lines join panni kolathai mudikuradhukulle thookame poidum...Idhu ellam andha jil climate le, Eeramaana vaasalle...
Going back to sleep was out of question! appadiye iruttle aandhai madhiri muzhichitu utkandhu irupen, counting the whistles accurately.
Soon, I discovered a counter law, Murphy's type. The lesser the time you spend on the kolam, greater the possibility to get back to sleep. What started as '15 pulli kolam', soon became '5 pulli kolam' much to my mother’s dismay.
Work Days:
These days, amma has become very considerate. 'Paavam ponnu night 11ku dhan vandha' or probably she thinks I'll be married off soon or probably she thinks she just can't instill it in me. She never wakes me up! I get up at around 7.00 come out of the room and feel a little guilty that her prayers are almost over! The Suprabatham, Sahasranamam CD is all done!
Today:
Today, on the eve of Margazhi, I am planning to get up early, bathe and read Thirupaavai everyday!!
Why? Why the change in me?
Am I getting old?
Is the customs & culture finally into me?
Is it because they say 'You will get a good husband’?
Is it because scientifically, the ozone layer is a li'l lower and is good for health?
Well, I don't know the reason. But I am sure it will make mom happy and me a little content! Will I stick to this for the entire month?! Well, that is for time to answer!
School days:
This is half-yearly exams time, with a cold climate that you never feel like getting off the bed....I usually, give myself 5 mins leverage and continue to extend that. 5 mins..5 more mins, 5 more mins... But the problem is, my big mommy is up by 4.00!! She whacks, and wakes me up! She, not only makes sure that I am out of bed, but also ensures, I don't doze off at the study table.. On the study table, I'll almost close my eyes and suddenly hear her voice...
'Yadhvi!! Ethana dhadavai koopidaradhu? Stove ai niruthu..sonnen illa? 4 whistles ku apuram niruthunu!! Naivedhya Pongal ippo koozh aagidum... padikaama thoongariya?!!!'
(uphh..1st whistle kaetuchu...2nd, 3rd, 4th? appo naan ZZzzzz...)
College Days:
In her anxiousness to make me get some involvement into the culture and customs, my mom passed a law. I should get up at 4.00 and draw a kolam at the entrance before my mom is ready for prayers. I agreed!(as though I can refuse..)the deal being, I can go back to sleep after finishing my kolam! When I agreed, little did I realise that I was falling into a trap!
As it is am bad at drawing! Idhule, paadhi thookathile, ezhundhu, dots count panni vechu, lines join panni kolathai mudikuradhukulle thookame poidum...Idhu ellam andha jil climate le, Eeramaana vaasalle...
Going back to sleep was out of question! appadiye iruttle aandhai madhiri muzhichitu utkandhu irupen, counting the whistles accurately.
Soon, I discovered a counter law, Murphy's type. The lesser the time you spend on the kolam, greater the possibility to get back to sleep. What started as '15 pulli kolam', soon became '5 pulli kolam' much to my mother’s dismay.
Work Days:
These days, amma has become very considerate. 'Paavam ponnu night 11ku dhan vandha' or probably she thinks I'll be married off soon or probably she thinks she just can't instill it in me. She never wakes me up! I get up at around 7.00 come out of the room and feel a little guilty that her prayers are almost over! The Suprabatham, Sahasranamam CD is all done!
Today:
Today, on the eve of Margazhi, I am planning to get up early, bathe and read Thirupaavai everyday!!
Why? Why the change in me?
Am I getting old?
Is the customs & culture finally into me?
Is it because they say 'You will get a good husband’?
Is it because scientifically, the ozone layer is a li'l lower and is good for health?
Well, I don't know the reason. But I am sure it will make mom happy and me a little content! Will I stick to this for the entire month?! Well, that is for time to answer!
Friday, December 09, 2005
Philim style - Mistaken Identity
Scene: Elevator of a 12 storeyed office complex
Time : 8.12 PM
I was waiting at the 10th floor lobby to get home after work. The elevator door opens and in it are 7 tired men with saggy posture and an empty glance. I get in and join the crowd for a downward journey. The elevator again stops at the 8th floor and when the door opens, there are 8 tired people(including me) with a saggy posture and one just about to enter. Till then it was so eventless. The guy comes in, the door closes. Now there are 9 people inside.
12th floor Man:'HIIIIII' (quite excited)
(Exclaimed the man who was already inside, looking at the man who just entered.
Seven others, glance at the man who said 'Hi' and turned to the second man to see his response.)
8th floor Guy: Bewildered look…quite lost…could not re-collect or associate the face
(Then the conversation continued in Malayalam. Thanks to movies, Kiran TV and my friend Ranj, I understood every bit of it. Translating the same in Minglish)
12th floor man: (Chammi poyee) I've seen you somewhere...Are you from CT?
(I wipe the grin off my face, and stand between them...Of course hearing)
8th floor guy: (grins) Adhu, enda twin. My twin brother studied in CT (grins)
12th floor man: Quite lost..doesn't believe.. 'Ninde paer endhaa?'
The rest seven in the elevator, straighten up...they all have a twinkle in their eyes, some smiling, some widely grinning.. Mez, looking down and grinning, thinking of Engal Veetu Pillai movie..
8th floor guy: Enda paer Anoop, and, my brother is Swanoop. 2004 pass out
12 floor man: You look so much like him :-) Was he in the hostel? nyaan 2002 pass out.
By now, we had reached the ground floor...12th floor man and 8th floor guy walk out chatting and the remaining seven, walked out quite briskly... This conversation had definitely enlightened us...I was thinking of all the movies - Engal veetu pillai, Naalai Namadhe, Moondru mugam, apoorva sagodharargal...
I was also thinking, the brothers could probably switch their workplace if they are bored, their wives would get confused...filmi style imaginations followed..
PS: It was a very ordinary event of mistaken identity. But for the 'twin' story, the conversation wouldn't have been worth mentioning. The existence of 'twin' cheered everybody! I am curious to see if they are look alike.
Time : 8.12 PM
I was waiting at the 10th floor lobby to get home after work. The elevator door opens and in it are 7 tired men with saggy posture and an empty glance. I get in and join the crowd for a downward journey. The elevator again stops at the 8th floor and when the door opens, there are 8 tired people(including me) with a saggy posture and one just about to enter. Till then it was so eventless. The guy comes in, the door closes. Now there are 9 people inside.
12th floor Man:'HIIIIII' (quite excited)
(Exclaimed the man who was already inside, looking at the man who just entered.
Seven others, glance at the man who said 'Hi' and turned to the second man to see his response.)
8th floor Guy: Bewildered look…quite lost…could not re-collect or associate the face
(Then the conversation continued in Malayalam. Thanks to movies, Kiran TV and my friend Ranj, I understood every bit of it. Translating the same in Minglish)
12th floor man: (Chammi poyee) I've seen you somewhere...Are you from CT?
(I wipe the grin off my face, and stand between them...Of course hearing)
8th floor guy: (grins) Adhu, enda twin. My twin brother studied in CT (grins)
12th floor man: Quite lost..doesn't believe.. 'Ninde paer endhaa?'
The rest seven in the elevator, straighten up...they all have a twinkle in their eyes, some smiling, some widely grinning.. Mez, looking down and grinning, thinking of Engal Veetu Pillai movie..
8th floor guy: Enda paer Anoop, and, my brother is Swanoop. 2004 pass out
12 floor man: You look so much like him :-) Was he in the hostel? nyaan 2002 pass out.
By now, we had reached the ground floor...12th floor man and 8th floor guy walk out chatting and the remaining seven, walked out quite briskly... This conversation had definitely enlightened us...I was thinking of all the movies - Engal veetu pillai, Naalai Namadhe, Moondru mugam, apoorva sagodharargal...
I was also thinking, the brothers could probably switch their workplace if they are bored, their wives would get confused...filmi style imaginations followed..
PS: It was a very ordinary event of mistaken identity. But for the 'twin' story, the conversation wouldn't have been worth mentioning. The existence of 'twin' cheered everybody! I am curious to see if they are look alike.
Monday, December 05, 2005
Eurekha somebody?
In this rainy season, a common problem for most of the car drivers, is the mist that settles on the wind shield. Chinna thambi Goundamani madhiri, 'Naan appadiye kannai mudipenam, nee vazhi solluviyam, naan ottuvenam' range ku dhan ottanum.
In almost all the cars, the best solution is turning the heater on. Scientifically, the heater would vaporize the moisture and clear it out. But en car le if I turn the heater on, it blurs it out all the more! Th moisture becomes extensive.. After some trial and error, I found that, if I turn the A/C on, the moisture is cleared out!! Idhuku naan kodukura explanation, the heater is not hot enough to vaporize, hence liquefies the cool air that adds to the moisture, while the A/c is effective enough to condense the moisture into cool air.. Any Newton, Archimedes agree with me?
Whatever be the reason, mazhaile nananjitu, indha kulir le A/c pottutu one hour ottradhu rommmmba kashtam :-(
PS: Any suggestions to overcome this, is MOST Welcome!
In almost all the cars, the best solution is turning the heater on. Scientifically, the heater would vaporize the moisture and clear it out. But en car le if I turn the heater on, it blurs it out all the more! Th moisture becomes extensive.. After some trial and error, I found that, if I turn the A/C on, the moisture is cleared out!! Idhuku naan kodukura explanation, the heater is not hot enough to vaporize, hence liquefies the cool air that adds to the moisture, while the A/c is effective enough to condense the moisture into cool air.. Any Newton, Archimedes agree with me?
Whatever be the reason, mazhaile nananjitu, indha kulir le A/c pottutu one hour ottradhu rommmmba kashtam :-(
PS: Any suggestions to overcome this, is MOST Welcome!
Chennaiyil Oru Mazhaikaalam!
No, It's not about the torrential rains, inundated roads or the abandoned match...
It's about how relationship-friendly rain is! A li'l more than a 'Hot cup of coffee'.
Yeah, this is the season you start with 'How about a hot cup of coffee' and discuss about everything under the universe with someone you are interested in building a relationship... But the heavy downpour has provided more opportunities than the just coffee.
1. First one obviously is, sharing the same umbrella. Either you hide yours or bring it out depending on whether the 2nd person has or doesn't have one.
2. God forsaken two-wheelers
2A. If you have a vehicle and she doesn't, pretend that the mechanic shop is in her street, push the vehicle and walk with her. (Un thalai ezhuthu!)
2A(1). Do not have your jerk-in. She'll hold the umbrella for you!!(if you are lucky and if shez interested)
2B. If she has the vehicle and it is conked...wherever the mechanic is, vazhiye illai...nee dhan thallanum!! but 2A(1) still applies.
2C. If she has the vehicle and it works fine (curse it) you still can say, 'Are you sure you'll be able to manage? Do you want me to come along?
2C(1). If your vehicle is stable, drive along and make sure she reaches safely
2C(2). If your vehicle is not trustable.. free ya vidu! you don't want her to curse you..
2C(3). If you are lucky, you can say, 'I'll be a pillion rider and guide you thru'. But, adhuku apuram, oru auto, share-auto, bus pudichu thirumbi varanum!!
3. Blessed 4-Wheelers
3A. If you/your dad has a car, magnanimously, give her a ride. Make sure you don't take your foot off the accelerator in inundated roads. It's embarrassing to make her push the car!
3B. If she has the car, you can ask for a ride. Pakkathile utkaandhu mazhai/traffic a vedikai paathutu poga koodadhu. Got to help her. Glass le mist form aagum, kerchief, tie, edhavadhu vechu thudaikanum..
3C. Of course, pray that she should take her foot off the accelerator! Irangi thallanum!
4. Pallavan maama
4A. She travels by Pallavan? she got a window seat? prachanaiye illai...stand by her seat to help her down/up the shutters.
4B. you still can use Point#1 after getting off the bus, or inside the bus..adhaan bus ellam ozhugudhae..
4C. Give your kerchief, tie to wipe the seat..or if you are lucky borrow hers
Disclaimer: All the above points are based on instances observed on the road. Any resemblance to real-life incidents is purely coincidental - I happened to see you!
It's about how relationship-friendly rain is! A li'l more than a 'Hot cup of coffee'.
Yeah, this is the season you start with 'How about a hot cup of coffee' and discuss about everything under the universe with someone you are interested in building a relationship... But the heavy downpour has provided more opportunities than the just coffee.
1. First one obviously is, sharing the same umbrella. Either you hide yours or bring it out depending on whether the 2nd person has or doesn't have one.
2. God forsaken two-wheelers
2A. If you have a vehicle and she doesn't, pretend that the mechanic shop is in her street, push the vehicle and walk with her. (Un thalai ezhuthu!)
2A(1). Do not have your jerk-in. She'll hold the umbrella for you!!(if you are lucky and if shez interested)
2B. If she has the vehicle and it is conked...wherever the mechanic is, vazhiye illai...nee dhan thallanum!! but 2A(1) still applies.
2C. If she has the vehicle and it works fine (curse it) you still can say, 'Are you sure you'll be able to manage? Do you want me to come along?
2C(1). If your vehicle is stable, drive along and make sure she reaches safely
2C(2). If your vehicle is not trustable.. free ya vidu! you don't want her to curse you..
2C(3). If you are lucky, you can say, 'I'll be a pillion rider and guide you thru'. But, adhuku apuram, oru auto, share-auto, bus pudichu thirumbi varanum!!
3. Blessed 4-Wheelers
3A. If you/your dad has a car, magnanimously, give her a ride. Make sure you don't take your foot off the accelerator in inundated roads. It's embarrassing to make her push the car!
3B. If she has the car, you can ask for a ride. Pakkathile utkaandhu mazhai/traffic a vedikai paathutu poga koodadhu. Got to help her. Glass le mist form aagum, kerchief, tie, edhavadhu vechu thudaikanum..
3C. Of course, pray that she should take her foot off the accelerator! Irangi thallanum!
4. Pallavan maama
4A. She travels by Pallavan? she got a window seat? prachanaiye illai...stand by her seat to help her down/up the shutters.
4B. you still can use Point#1 after getting off the bus, or inside the bus..adhaan bus ellam ozhugudhae..
4C. Give your kerchief, tie to wipe the seat..or if you are lucky borrow hers
Disclaimer: All the above points are based on instances observed on the road. Any resemblance to real-life incidents is purely coincidental - I happened to see you!
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