tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87717372024-03-14T10:25:15.914+05:30Satori - The EnlightenmentIts about Life! and Living it! Nothing more!Swetahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10381841473934201421noreply@blogger.comBlogger84125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8771737.post-30697502292131181572017-11-07T21:29:00.001+05:302017-11-07T21:29:47.273+05:30Kiss of True Love<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--RUjr_zTXSg/WgHXuhisifI/AAAAAAAADmI/vW45qqTA3eY9VqzmBHeZBWAcXzSpsw0SQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/Final%2Bdesign%2B%25283%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--RUjr_zTXSg/WgHXuhisifI/AAAAAAAADmI/vW45qqTA3eY9VqzmBHeZBWAcXzSpsw0SQCK4BGAYYCw/s400/Final%2Bdesign%2B%25283%2529.png" width="250" /></a></div>
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Read the novella online on Kindle cloud reader or on kindle app on mobile. Order here <a href="https://www.amazon.in/dp/B0777L2FQR/">https://www.amazon.in/dp/B0777L2FQR/</a><br />
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Teaser:<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Is the Perfect Kiss a prerequisite for True Love?</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Funny though. A girl can have any such notion until she finds out what is true love.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">A romantic tale of teenager Eva Jonson who lives by this idea of a perfect kiss before she goes out on a date. </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Yes, a kiss before a date. </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">She is destined to fail with this weird rule of hers and ends up kissing many guys and still not finding the perfect date.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">And there is her friend Ana who keeps telling her to give up this rule and genuinely look for love and not the kiss.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">A sweet romantic love story of Eva on her quest for her true love through the perfect kiss.</span><br />
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Swetahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10381841473934201421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8771737.post-11065427631966548172017-11-04T15:28:00.000+05:302017-11-04T15:28:06.175+05:30Adhoori Kahaani<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<img alt="#kahaani #tinytales #tiniature #hindi #writersofinstagram #love #instadaily @surisingh_writer #rumi" class="_2di5p" height="400" src="https://instagram.fbom2-1.fna.fbcdn.net/t51.2885-15/s640x640/sh0.08/e35/23164388_1399675223488296_5327709181803757568_n.jpg" width="400" /></div>
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Swetahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10381841473934201421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8771737.post-62773215019509894112017-11-01T11:55:00.004+05:302017-11-01T11:55:52.743+05:30Love comes unannounced<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<img alt="Love comes unannounced... #love #destiny #moment #pal #hindi #poetry #instadaily #instagood #writersofinstagram #author @komalesque @artlixirpoetry @surisingh_writer @rumi_poetry" class="_2di5p" height="400" src="https://instagram.fbom2-1.fna.fbcdn.net/t51.2885-15/s640x640/sh0.08/e35/23099284_145351832751331_8920396763097989120_n.jpg" width="400" /></div>
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Swetahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10381841473934201421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8771737.post-10959400716729259152017-10-31T12:07:00.001+05:302017-10-31T12:07:11.419+05:30Jhalli Thi Jo<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Swetahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10381841473934201421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8771737.post-76984089782650110832017-10-30T15:27:00.002+05:302017-10-31T12:07:38.028+05:30<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Swetahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10381841473934201421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8771737.post-28867123158018342572017-10-29T09:34:00.003+05:302017-10-29T09:34:19.098+05:30<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Swetahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10381841473934201421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8771737.post-63290871906324285842017-10-26T12:30:00.001+05:302017-10-26T12:31:19.866+05:30<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<img alt="Choosing self over others... 10 years down the line.
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Swetahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10381841473934201421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8771737.post-23020240327954535042017-10-25T10:57:00.000+05:302017-10-25T10:57:25.943+05:30<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h3YW19424N4/WfAgtmvlpxI/AAAAAAAADlY/IA29wNoeLb8T1AtwVPYeHk6gOjdBVWx1wCLcBGAs/s1600/We%2Bwaited%2Bhand-in-hand%2Bat%2Bthe%2Bcliff%2Bfor%2Bthe%2Bsunrise.%2BUntil%252C%2BI%2Breally%2Bdidnt%2Bcare%2Bfor%2Bthe%2Bsun%252C%2Bit%2Bwas%2Bthere%2Bwith%2Bme.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h3YW19424N4/WfAgtmvlpxI/AAAAAAAADlY/IA29wNoeLb8T1AtwVPYeHk6gOjdBVWx1wCLcBGAs/s320/We%2Bwaited%2Bhand-in-hand%2Bat%2Bthe%2Bcliff%2Bfor%2Bthe%2Bsunrise.%2BUntil%252C%2BI%2Breally%2Bdidnt%2Bcare%2Bfor%2Bthe%2Bsun%252C%2Bit%2Bwas%2Bthere%2Bwith%2Bme.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Swetahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10381841473934201421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8771737.post-50868147077657434312017-10-09T17:45:00.001+05:302017-10-09T17:45:26.625+05:30Run in Bali<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Would you run alone in a foreign country without mobile, and cash? What if you got lost? Would you risk going alone in a deserted road early morning?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The same questions popped up in my head… </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">That made this run a little adventurous and memorable.</span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When planning the Bali trip, I had looked for running tracks in #Bali and I was lucky to get the best track near the place where we would be staying in Bali. </span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z6PELujCyGI/WdtlkWyztmI/AAAAAAAADjc/v3rvqDYFBVcXH5ZksIRsvM9CHK_yVBfUwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4354.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z6PELujCyGI/WdtlkWyztmI/AAAAAAAADjc/v3rvqDYFBVcXH5ZksIRsvM9CHK_yVBfUwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_4354.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span id="goog_1769194943"></span><span id="goog_1769194944"></span><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A day before, I had gone to the nearby #Kuta beach walking with @Manish and @Manisha. The plan had been in my mind since the time we were planning in India. I had to run on this track - a beautiful one, near a beach, I thought as I lazed on the beach with the family. Next day would be all sight-seeing as would be every day for coming 8 days. But I could just sneak out early morning when everyone was sleeping and come back in an hour. Jet Lagged? Yes. But, I was ready to give up sleep for the experience.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">So, I got up early morning, and was on the road in my running gear at around 6am. Just carried my mobile with me that had no active SIM, just a working GPS, no cash and no passport. That morning had a bit of adventure in it - to run on a new track, new country, overlooking a beach, and with just me and myself.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When I set out, the road was deserted (hardly 2-3 people), I wasn’t sure if it was safe to go alone, whether it was worth it. Nevertheless, I decided to take the risk.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I reached the start of the beach. I was a little nervous (read new country, no cash, no mobile, and early mornings alone). I asked a person about the track and he showed me the direction. I ran up in that direction. The track was one of the spectacular ones, visited by many runners. When I saw many runners flocking the track, a wave of relief rushed in.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I started the run on the track. After some time, the track narrowed, where I could see a turn, and a beach to the left. This was just out of some movie track - panoramic and serene. All I could see was the calm sea, rushing waves, still sand, flying birds, the vast open light blue sky and I could smell the early morning fresh sea.</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wyVDCIexhqg/WdtldZEgDxI/AAAAAAAADjU/klnrpeezgRMoxN3ehvTAvw0WBKVQ7eDcACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2409.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wyVDCIexhqg/WdtldZEgDxI/AAAAAAAADjU/klnrpeezgRMoxN3ehvTAvw0WBKVQ7eDcACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_2409.JPG" width="640" /></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I spent some time at the other end of the track, went to the beach area, and then started back. I passed same places, and same narrow turn came and the opposite side view was equally breathtaking.</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PcKyFQ-vt9I/WdtleKf5SkI/AAAAAAAADjY/87mNCB2EKD0vkZvWxV8CyItuEr1hBZdsgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2410.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PcKyFQ-vt9I/WdtleKf5SkI/AAAAAAAADjY/87mNCB2EKD0vkZvWxV8CyItuEr1hBZdsgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_2410.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And I ran, watched people pass by, and as it was written to happen, accidentally I missed my turn and went ahead on the route. I got engrossed watching a group of runners doing their morning workout. They looked to me like a troupe of dancers in black attire doing their morning workout on the beach. They reminded me of my Shiamak days of dance when we worked out more and danced less and yet learnt so much more in just couple of hours week of investment. And I was back to present when I saw a plane take off. I had reached other end of the track... </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I had missed the turn.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It was the same place I had come a day before. So, I turned back and walked slowly so that I saw the turn I had to take to the road that led to the resort. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It is fun to be lost and to find yourself again. If you know what I am talking about, you are blessed! And if you have been never lost, may be there is still time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Simple things, simple experiences...</span><br />
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Swetahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10381841473934201421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8771737.post-76285630418722272952014-10-18T21:26:00.000+05:302014-10-18T21:26:17.050+05:30Workout Incident<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Yesterday:<br />
It was 4.30 am when I got up to see the time. Slept back seeing that there was still time to 5.30am.<br />
<br />
Few days back:<br />
I didnt know I had so much love for dance and fitness. Sleep has always been so dear to me that I didnt miss it even during exams. So, when we decided that the session will be at 6.00 am - I was doubtful about myself. But I decided to give it a try.<br />
<br />
For some, it may not be a big deal. But for me, who has always been waking up late, this was a challenge in itself.<br />
<br />
<br />
Few months back:<br />
Few days back, when we had dance sessions from 11.00 am, I had some issue in back due to which I wasnt able to move. I was in utter pain - painkillers were not helping, hot bags were not helping. I was bed-ridden for a day. Next day, the pain was there - this was the thought that was going on in my mind - ' If I didnt get up today, I might be in bed for - dont know how many days! ' So, I gathered all my strength and got up. Walked out slowly in the drawing room. I was in pain. Sitting on the chair was a big deal for me. Just took support and sat some how on the chair. And then somehow cooked something for the family - that gave some peace of mind. Kept moving through the day and the pain was subsiding. Took more than a week to get back to normal. It was a painful thing - but that didnt stop me to continue my dance sessions.<br />
<br />
<br />
Few days back:<br />
When it was the first session at 6, that night I got up twice - once at 2.30 am and then at 5 am. Finally got up at 5.45 am, got ready and had an awesome workout session. This continued for few days - I didnt have any issue getting up early and I AM surprised by myself.<br />
<br />
Yesterday:<br />
I got up at 5.45am as usual and got ready for the workout.We started sharp at 6.05am. It was the same workout I was doing. Stretching of muscles starting from head to toe. When I bent down touching the floor, knees straight and was in this position for quite some time. Then to left side of floor and then to right side. And after some time, it was time to raise slowly. I was happy today because I was not only able to touch the floor but also go a little further. When I raised slowly, I got blackout since head was down for quite some time - it was normal. But suddenly I also lost control of my body and had to sit down. So, I just laid straight on the floor for better blood circulation. I didnt have pain in my body. In few minutes, I again tried to get up and continue with the session. But again I lost control and had to sit back down. For few more minutes, I just laid down and watched my friends with a smile on my face - lot of jokes - 'aur mat karao Sir, nahi to hum bhi Sweta ki tarah let jaayenge'. I had different hot sensations in my body since my body was cooling down after the workout. I tried one more time to continue sitting down in the diamond position - but when I started going down, I again had a little giddy feeling. Been sipping water but the feeling was not improving. Problem was I didnt have something before workout - wanted some sugar in the morning :). So, I took some more time watching others. It was time to lie down on stomach and do the reverse for back. This I did with ease. Then got up. Still had the same feeling. Got home and had chocos and then breakfast. Got Eva ready for the school.<br />
I was feeling physically low - but I had to get ready for my kid's Diwali celebration. I didnt want to spoil her celebration - she had been looking forward to it. So, got ready as decided - no compromise done there. And was well in time in school. When I sat in the chair in school, the same painful feeling in back reappeared. Then had the same thought - situations are decided by God, being happy is my decision. So I smiled. When it was time to dance with the kids, I danced forgetting about the pain - it was there - but my decision made all the difference. Within few hours, I was already missing my workout :). Completed the missed workout in the evening. :) And have been wanting more of it inspite of all the injuries.<br />
<br />
And my faith in my decision has become stronger - no matter what - get up, dress up and show up. It makes sense in daily life. Be happy always - no matter what! Your decision makes all the difference.<br />
Live life like its the last day and enjoy it to the fullest! Make a difference.<br />
<br /></div>
Swetahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10381841473934201421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8771737.post-72024841512479002742014-09-05T13:48:00.003+05:302014-09-05T13:48:53.025+05:30Thank you teachers!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Thank you Guruji for being there for me and guiding me at every point of life since I was born. Thank you Mummy, Papa who are my Gurus of Life,</div>
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Thank you Sadguruji for enlightening me and making me understand things which I was always looking for.</div>
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Thank you teachers who taught me to read and write. Thank you teachers who taught me to think logically and analytically - thank you teachers for showing me its as important to question as answering them.</div>
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Thank you teachers who showed me different sides of the coin and showing me my potential.</div>
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Thank you Dipti, Ashish and all my friends, colleagues, family members who have guided me at different points of life.</div>
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Happpy Teachers day to you!</div>
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Swetahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10381841473934201421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8771737.post-88715633919774883332013-10-19T12:20:00.000+05:302013-10-19T15:15:00.815+05:30You are right !<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
You can do it or you cannot do it - whatever you think about yourself - you are always right.<br />
You are what think about you.<br />
<br />
I am made by my own thoughts. My life is the manifestation of my thoughts. Each of us is a magician. I have the power to change my life. Nobody else can do it for me. Its only me who can do it.<br />
<br />
I can get the guidance but its upto me to follow it. In school , everybody gets d same education - same books - how come some score well n some dont ?<br />
Its me who decides to listen to whom - its me who decides to follow whom - thats what makes all d difference. Its me who decides what I am capable of and hence what I deserve. I am capable of being at the top and I deserve to be at the top.<br />
Your circle of influence is equally important and how encouraging and supporting they are. Not all would want to see you at the top - except your Mom.<br />
"How dare you think you are superior than us?"<br />
<br />
"How dare you think you can reach d top ? "<br />
<br />
Sometimes its ur inner voice - sometimes your friends - all afraid of failure. ..<br />
<br />
ghar se nikale bina kabhi cycle chalana sikha hai bhai ?<br />
<br />
I remember the days when I was in 12th std - preparing for exams - the result were to decide my fate. I came from a super orthodox family. " how dare o think I can go for higher studies ? "<br />
<br />
"How can you dream of going outside the town to study - you are a female. You will not be allowed. Just be happy u r being allowed to study atleast.<br />
Even if my parents wanted, we were a part of joint family where they hardly had a say.<br />
I had just 1 option - score so high that they cannot deny me my destiny - score so high that money is not the hurdle for me and I get a free seat. My parents supported me in all possible ways. They had d belief because I had it in me.<br />
<br />
I remember those days - one day that gave me the success mantra.<br />
I used to go for English tutions. There was another professor who used to give Maths tutions. I was not taking Maths tutions from him. But he used to test me if there was time to start for English class. He said - everybody is preparing so well. All are giving their best. Why do you think you are better than them ?<br />
Most of these aspiring students are putting 95% efforts. If you want to be at the top , you have to put 5% more efforts than them. That 5% over and above 95% makes all the difference. If tou are putting same efforts like them, do not expect better results than them. To be at extraordinary place, you have to put extraordinary efforts. However intelligent you are, if your efforts are less, you are not going to the top. There is no shortcut to success.<br />
<br />
I made this as my Mantra for Life - if I have to be at the top , I have to give my 100% efforts. Rest I leave to HIM.<br />
<br />
<b>It was no wonder that I got 100% in 12th in Physics, Chemistry n Mathematics - it was a proof that I had put 100% hard work, n dedication. </b>I was so focused on my goal that I turned blind n deaf to everything else. Didn't even hear to what my body was telling me - I met with accident and had lot of hurdles but that hardly bothered me. My parents My Mom took so much care that I had never to bother abt anything else.<br />
<br />
I am following the same Mantra today ...<br />
I am capable of reaching there and I deserve to be there.<br />
<br />
I am right ...<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Swetahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10381841473934201421noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8771737.post-62331281594984847532013-07-22T11:02:00.001+05:302013-07-22T11:02:06.699+05:30Finding Myself (Your Questions Answered)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Many friends have called, commented and come back to me asking what did I do or what have I found or how I have found in "<a href="http://the-satori.blogspot.in/2013/07/blessed-to-have-found-myself.html">Blessed to have found myself</a>". Sudesh asked if I have found my inner purpose of life. According to him, the outer purpose keeps changing.<br />
<br />
Consider outer purpose as baby steps towards your inner purpose of life. If my inner purpose is known to me, my outer purposes will be aligned to reach my inner purpose. Very true that my inner purpose is constant throughout my life. Outer purposes will keep changing since I achieve them one by one, climbing the ladder to my inner purpose.<br />
<br />
However consider that I didnt know my inner purpose of life - then I will keep wandering throughout - thats why the questions of my existence, my purpose will keep coming back to me every now and then - I will not get that well-being feeling from within - since I dont know where I am heading to - what is it that I REALLY want in my life ? I have been there - that feeling made me very uncomfortable inspite of being excellent in whatever I had been doing - BECAUSE I didnt know if I was on the right track.<br />
<br />
Inner purpose of life cannot be determined by others - it cannot be found by asking others whats yours ? But knowing other's inner purpose might give me some idea. But still I will not know my inner purpose until I am in that zone - that SEEKING Zone - that UNCOMFORTABLE zone. If I am not even seeking or looking for it - the answers might be infront of me - but I will not see them. Its that SIMPLE!<br />
<br />
Inner purpose - I call it the 'click' moment - that moment when something clicked my mind and heart - its that moment of life when everything else seems immaterial - when something happens and the furniture in my mind gets shifted. Then I am ready to take any risks in life, Then I am open to trying things (legal and ethical) that I had never done before - my Inner purpose - the ultimate goal of life becomes larger than my life itself!<br />
<br />
All may not have same inner goals but they may be inter-related. Then their outer goals also become become similar. Important is are you looking for your inner goal? IF you have found it, are your outer goals aligned towards your inner goals?<br />
<br />
Yes, I have found my inner goal and now I am aligning my outer goals for my inner purpose!<br />
<br />
So, thankful to my destiny, to God for enlightening me, my mentors for showing me the path, my parents for making me capable enough to follow my heart and my sweetheart for always being there for me and supporting me in every single way!<br />
<br />
Thank you, thank you, thank you.</div>
Swetahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10381841473934201421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8771737.post-87411628074987148662013-07-20T08:51:00.001+05:302013-07-20T08:51:14.756+05:30Blessed to have found myself<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Finding myself.. I am blessed to have found back myself.<br />
<br />
Since more than a decade, I had been playing with myself , dodging with lot of questions of existence , my purpose in life , my ultimate goal in life , what is it that I love to do and would want to do all my life , what is it for which I cannot die without achieving ? I used to get lost every other day and the question would come back to me - Sweta , what next ? Is this it ?<br />
<br />
I never got answers to any of my questions till a very long time - almost till half of my life span has passed by like flowing river - myself standing on the banks figuring out what to do - why I am here ?<br />
<br />
I tried to find answers in books , from people - but they say naa - everybody has that moment when they find themselves - some are blessed to find early in life - some take a lifetime to realize - this is it that they wanted from their life - probably few minutes before they die when the life flashes in front of their eyes like the flowing sand from their hands...<br />
<br />
I am so blessed to find it quite early in life where I still have some time to achieve - to make a difference - to create the story of my life...<br />
<br />
I had always been a dreamer. Who doesnt dream ? Aspire ?<br />
Everybody wants to soar ?<br />
<br />
But not everybody is AWARE that they too have wings - even they are capable of flying...<br />
Some try try to fly and then they give up thinking they are not made to fly - some fly - fly only from one tree to other - UNAWARE they are capable of soaring high in life...<br />
Only only handful realize they are capable of high flying - scaling new heights...<br />
<br />
<br />
So blessed - thank you , thank you , thank you .<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Swetahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10381841473934201421noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8771737.post-20067899052887278742013-01-26T11:19:00.001+05:302013-01-26T11:19:56.272+05:30Flat tax rate for everybody is what I expect<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Flat tax rate for everybody is what I expect<br />
<br />
No Discrimination based on how much you earn!<br />
<br />
I expect a flat tax rate for all the citizens earning more than X Lacs say 5 lacs. No tax for people earning less than 5 Lacs per year.<br />
<br />
<br />People should be appropriately taxed on how they spend their earnings...<br />
<br />
say 50% TAX on cars worth more than 10L<br />
<br />
say 50% TAX on LUXURY Holidays!<br />
<br />
say 50% TAX on dining out in 5 Star, 40% in 4 Star....<br />
say 50% TAX on watching movies in multiplex <br />
say 10% TAX on Watching movies in cinema<br />
say 50% TAX on buying BISLERI<br />
say 50% TAX on housing RENT more than 40K per month<br />
<br />
The point is - you have a flat rate of income tax and then tax on expenditure based on the spending capacity of the individual! Indirectly taxing rich! But not everybody :) and not ALWAYS!<br />
<br />
This is feasible only when all transactions are made through debit/credit cards. Do not wait to tax till the end of the year.<br />
<br />
Tax when the transaction is made... Make Aadhar / PAN Card compulsory to do any transaction!<br />
<br />
<br />
This system has too many loopholes and the country has too many who want to save tax and do not fear being caught!<br />
<br />
What are your thoughts! Do you think the tax slabs are good enough for the country? Do you think the rich should be taxed higher ?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Swetahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10381841473934201421noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8771737.post-52488500356655291542011-10-05T17:50:00.000+05:302011-10-05T17:50:29.962+05:30Trip to Tirupati<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Date: Sometime in May<br />
Last month we travelled to Tirupati and Kalahasti over one weekend and Wayanad and Mysore over other weekend.<br />
<br />
<br />
Will share the pictures soon.<br />
On 17 April (Sunday), we left for Tirupati by taxi by 8 am. We had made the bookings for stay and pooja (Kalyanoutsavam daily seva). The drive was good.<br />
<br />
Took a stop in between for lunch and reached Tirupati by 1-2 pm. I don’t remember exactly when we reached.. but it was noon time. After reaching, we checked into the guest house. Papa had made the bookings from akola. It had good rooms. We took rest till 3 pm and then left for darshan to tirumala. We took the 300 Rs ticket the first day. There was not much rush. So, we were out by 5.30 pm. One stupid thing happened with us. We were in a hurry to get inside the temple so we kept our chappals outside the temple. All of us had so much faith in God and the place that all of us thought the chappals are safe outside without a guard. We had good darshan inside. We took darshan, then collected the prasadam and nicely sat at the ghat and had tea and all. I was completely soaked into the serenity there and didn’t want to move. It was already around 7 pm. And everybody wanted to move. I wanted to see the dance there that was being offered to God and played on the big screen. Papa said, lets collect the chappals and come back if you wish to… When we reached the place where we had kept the chappals, we saw that there were two pairs of chappals – Manish and Eva’s only. Other 4 pairs were missing. To note here that there were atleast 20 pairs more when we had kept there.. But now, only 2 old pairs of chappals were left which nobody wanted (Not even their owners).<br />
<br />
Ashish got angry since his was the most costly among us (4k Nike shoes). Papa’s shoes were just 1 week old and so were Mummy ‘s and mine.<br />
Then we went to Tirupati, bought new chappals and then went to hotel Mayura for a good dinner. Next day, got ready quickly by 8 am and then reached tirumala. Joined the queue for the daily seva. That seva was performed by atleast 500 couples together in a big mandapam. Lot of chanting (which I didn’t understand). I only understood that it was the marriage of Lord Malayappa swami (i.e. Lord Venkateshwara) to Bhoodevi and Sridevi. After the 2 hour pooja, we were also given priviledged darshan of the main temple as well.<br />
We were out by 1.30pm. Then we headed back to Tirupati. After having lunch, we headed towards SriKalaHasti temple – a very ancient temple. Took darshan there. We also wanted to go to Golden temple – Narayani temple. But it was already 7pm. So dropped the plan and headed back to Bangalore. Reached by 12.30-1am.<br />
At the end of the day, I would want to go again to Tirupati and just sit there outside near the Kund and have a heavenly experience…</div>Swetahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10381841473934201421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8771737.post-30566257654936088382011-03-24T16:33:00.001+05:302011-03-24T17:14:59.164+05:30Pondicherry<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
Date: 28 and 29 Jan 2011<br />
<br />
<br />
29 jan was coming close. This time we wanted to celebrate the day somewhere out-of-station.Had heard about Pondicherry and since it was a 2D 1N place, we thought lets give it a shot.<br />
<br />
We booked Zest @Big Beach, Pondicherry one week in advance. Made our bus reservations through Redbus. We took the Sharma's sleeper coach to reach Pondi. Its departure time was somewhere around 9.30pm. But it departed by 11.30pm... bad 2hours late... <br />
<br />
The roads till Salem are good. But after that, it was pathetic. There was no road I guess.. only and only potholes.<br />
<br />
So I will not recommend you to drive to Pondicherry. Take the sleeper bus and enjoy the ride ;)<br />
<br />
We reached Pondi by 7 am. Took a rick to the resort. Its outside the city so had to pay a hefty amount for the long ride.<br />
<br />
Reached the resort by 8am. The resort is awesome - a private beach. so once we reached there, checked in the luggage and headed to the beach. Eva was equally excited on the beach.<br />
<br />
After playing on the beach, went for the buffet yummy breakfast. Eva had fruits and myself had little of everything ;). Manish opted for fruits and dosa.<br />
<br />
The photos of the visit are uploaded to picasa - <br />
<br />
http://picasaweb.google.com/swetag<br />
<br />
After the breakfast, we went to the children play area where Eva enjoyed the new rides and we enjoyed looking at her. Then to the apartment, and freshened up. I saw from the day schedule that there was a dance lesson before lunch. Manish and Eva took a nap when I went to take the dance lesson - Jive.<br />
<br />
Learnt Jive in a day. Then Manish also joined me... It was lot of fun there. <br />
<br />
Had the nice lunch. The day was spent lazing around in the resort. Evening, again on the beach - writing names in the sand, making house in the sand (remembered old days - college trip to harihareshwar) and jumping once in a while seeing the crabs :).<br />
<br />
<br />
Back to room and relaxed. and then there was another fun event planned in the evening - some games and music. I loved the dinner especially the deserts.<br />
<br />
Next day we decided to go to the city to see Aurobindo ashram, vinayaka temple (the lakshmi outside) and the Matri Mandir in auroville. I wanted to stay in Auroville but that time nothing was available. Will definitely visit next time when Eva will be little older and when i will be able to take the meditation lesson inside the Matri Mandir.<br />
<br />
<br />
Started by 8.30 am from the resort. We booked a taxi for the sight-seeing. First visited auroville - had breakfast in the restaurant in the auroville. Decent food at rockbottom prices. Then went to see the meditation hall. Since we didnt have any meditation reservation, we were not allowed to go inside the hall. There is another viewing point where we went by the Cable car. Clicked pictures there and awed at the sight of the Matrimandir... hopefully will get to go inside the next time.<br />
<br />
<br />
Then went to Panchmukhi Bajrangbali temple nearby. The temple has standing idol of Hanumanji with 5 heads. A must see in Pondicherry.<br />
<br />
Then went to the Sri Vinayagar temple - Ganeshji temple. I wanted to visit this temple for Lakshmi who stands outside the temple. We offered fruits - she ate it. We offered coin - she loyally gave to the master and gave us blessings.<br />
<br />
The temple is a famous one - just off the road - infront of Aurobindo ashram. Then went for our lunch at the famous Veg restaurant in Pondi - Hotel Surguru. It was crowded. But the service was fast. So we got the place to sit without much waiting.<br />
<br />
After lunch, we checked into a Jain dharamshala near Hotel Surguru for a nap. Eva slept for sometime. Then in the evening, we went to Aurobindo ashram and then to the other rocky beach - Gandhi beach in Pondi. Enjoyed looking at the waves. There is a Chowpati there. But we didnt find it hygienic. So, we gave it a skip. Went to La Cafe to see if we can have dinner there. Its more like Marzorin (in Pune) - sandwiches, burger, cakes and shakes. So, we decided to head back to surguru for dinner. Had dinner and by that time, it was time to catch our bus back to Bengaluru. Started right time by 10.30pm from Pondi and reached 5.30am sharp back to the city.<br />
<br />
Overall, it was a nice celebration - dance by the beach, sumptous meals and a view of Matri Mandir are the things I will want to visit this place again and again... A very simple city meant for relax and unwind.</div>Swetahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10381841473934201421noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8771737.post-1433603128148509992011-03-22T11:33:00.001+05:302011-03-22T11:34:27.351+05:30Yercaud + Hogenakkal<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Travel date: 5 and 6 Mar 2011<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">I wanted to visit Yercaud from a long time for the reason that the route is very good to yercaud . Check team-bhp to for the route details.</div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal">We planned to visit yercaud on Saturday and come back via hogenakkal the next day.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Started early by 6.30am on Saturday – Courtesy – Eva. She got up by 5.45am. So we had no option but to get ready and leave <span style="font-family: Wingdings;">:)</span>. </div><div class="MsoNormal">We followed this route - </div><div class="MsoNormal">Challaghatta - Electronic City - Hosur - Krishnagiri - Dharmpuri - Salem - Yercaud - Salem - Dharmpuri - Hogenakkal - Dharmpuri - Krishnagiri - Electronic city - Challaghatta</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I must say the flyover going through the Electronic city is awesome – all worth the toll they take. </div><div class="MsoNormal">By 7.30 or so we were in Hosur. We didn’t take a break at A2B (Anand Bhavan) since Eva was sleeping and we had just started. So we continued towards our journey.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Reached Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri and then Salem. We were in Salem by 10.30am. The route is so scenic – you feel like going for this drive once again <span style="font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></div><div class="MsoNormal">Reached Yercaud by 12.30. There are not much places to see in yercaud. A small hill station – a smaller version of Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra. The places there reminded me of Mahabaleshwar. However no match with Mahabaleshwar when it comes to hotels, restaurants and market. Hardly anything.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Hotel Shevaroys is good. We had both of our meals in Shevaroys.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Stayed at Yercaud international on Lady’s seat road.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Points of interest – </div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">1.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Lady’s seat – MUST – much like the arthur’s seat</div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">2.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Pagoda point – MUST - much like the elephant needle point in mahabaleshwar</div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">3.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Kelliyur waterfall – cud not trek down with my kid.</div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">4.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Shevaroy hills – cave temple there – table land in panchgani</div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">5.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Lake – boating – average</div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">6.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span>Parks around the lake</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black;">Next morning, we got up early around 5.30am and started by 6am. We had planned to go to Hogenakkal which is a little off-route from Dharmpuri. We reached A2B near Dharmpuri at around 8am. Had a nice breakfast. I will highly recommend this place. Then Eva played there on the swing, slide and merry-go-round. Then started our way to Hogenakkal. Reached by 10.30 am. Then parked our car and started walking towards the waterfall. It was a bright sunny day – the heat was similar to a hot summer day. The people there don’t direct you correctly. One of them said that you cannot see the waterfall from here. You have to take the coracle boat ride to go to the main viewing point. We didn’t listen to that guy and kept walking. We reached the cine point where many pictures/movies were shot. And then kept walking for the main point. Lot of entry fees at every point for just crossing the falls. The falls is huge and a little scary. But overall a nice place to go. Only thing is go there very early in the morning or evening to avoid the sun. We were done by 11.30am. Enjoyed the cool cucumber and sprite while returning.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black;">Another halt at MacD in Hosur at around 12.30pm and then reached home by 3pm.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: black;">It was a nice trip. I liked the scenic route to Yercaud, the lady’s seat and the pagoda point and the hogenakkal falls. Given a chance, I would go once more for the scenic route and A2B. Otherwise I prefer Mahabaleshwar anytime;)</div></div>Swetahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10381841473934201421noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8771737.post-61996813464911652262011-01-17T12:10:00.000+05:302011-01-17T12:10:09.599+05:30ISKCON and Nandi HillsLast week, we visited ISKCON temple in Bangalore. My memories of the previous visit with my parents were refreshed. I wanted to visit this temple since we shifted to Bangalore. But we were not able to visit it due to some or the other reason. Finally visited the temple and our experience was much worth the time it took to reach the place from our house. It took around an hour to reach – more time since we didn’t know the route. Though we had checked google maps for the route but still we were lost at few turns.<br />
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The temple is much the same since 10 years now – few changes in how we reach the main entrance. Otherwise much the same – the satsang was going on when we reached the place. Eva loves going to temples. She was excited and we love her enthusiasm for visiting temples. She is very calm inside the temple and we were able to sing our bit in satsang. Eva enjoys satsangs – sits comfortably which is very rare of her to sit at one place.<br />
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Then on our way to exit – the shopping place is all the same since when I don’t know. They haven’t improved here – I think they want to keep it that way deliberately… <br />
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This Sunday, we visited Nandi Hills. Took around 1.5 hrs to reach from Indira Nagar to Nandi Hills. We targeted to see the sunset at Nandi Hills. Nandi Hills is huge and we got to see the beautiful sunset. The sky was clear and we got few great pictures of Eva there. Will post them soon. At Nandi Hills, there is a Nandi temple behind the Hotel Mayura Pine top. And another temple at the sunset point. On the way, there are many vineyards. <br />
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It was a soulful experience to sit and watch the sun set in the mountains. <br />
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And a nice scenic drive too. Well, one thing I liked the most of South India - the nature.. A good green cover and umpteen places to go around.Swetahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10381841473934201421noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8771737.post-56618183824652805242010-11-19T23:12:00.000+05:302010-11-19T23:12:57.731+05:30Gujarat and Rajasthan this timePictures of the entire trip here - <br />
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/swetag/PalitanaHastipurGirNationalParkSomnathRanakpurPawapuriBhairuTarakJaiJeerawalaMtAbuAmba#">http://picasaweb.google.com/swetag/PalitanaHastipurGirNationalParkSomnathRanakpurPawapuriBhairuTarakJaiJeerawalaMtAbuAmba#</a><br />
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On Diwali, we decided to go Manish's home town Udaipur in Rajasthan. We thought we would go for sightseeing cum pilgrimage this Diwali. So we took 2 weeks off to Gujarat and Rajasthan.<br />
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We left for Ahmedabad from Bangalore on 29 Oct 2010. We had planned to go for a family tour prior Diwali. So when we reached Ahmedabad to Didi's place, they were preparing for the tour. Didi's family, Bhaiya's family and mummy were joining us for the jain pilgrim <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palitana">Palitana</a>. Next day, all of us (7 adults + 6 children + 1 driver) started in afternoon from Ahmedabad. The journey was very scenic but hot. Lot of chaos as was expected with so many children. On the way, we stopped at Ayodhyadham just half-way to Palitana. Reached Palitana in the evening around 7pm. Checked into the Takhatgarh Jain Dharamshala. It was very clean - much better than the 4 star hotels.<br />
Off we went to Palitana city for dinner. Not much options since its a pilgrim center and most of the Jains eat before sunset. At night, you have options of fast food like Pav Bhaji, Dosa, Idli and all and sandwiches. And not that hygienic north indian food. On the first day in Palitana, we had North Indian food. By God's grace, nobody had any stomach problem after eating it.<br />
Palitana is the main jain pilgrim - temples situated on the top of the mountain. We had to walk to the top - around 4.5km of uphill walk. Not that tough if you are alone. But with children, it was a challenging task. Eva was cool during the journey. She didnt have much for dinner. We got her milk and she was off to sleep. Other children were pretty old and independent except Ridhi (1 yr old who relied on mother's milk on most of the journey). We decided to start early next morning. The early you start - the better it will be - since you avoid the sunny day.<br />
We were up by 4 am - got ready by 5am. But finally started climbing the hill by 6.30am.. what a start :). We took two Doli for children. Initially it was used to take water and other stuff with us since none of the children wanted to sit in it. Eva was also adamant. Manish carried her entirely to the top. I had doubts that if I took her - somebody will have to take me. So, it was all on Manish to make Eva climb the mountain - most of the times in his hand or on his shoulders.<br />
We reached the top by 8.45 am. Eva had slept on Manish by that time - making his climb all the more difficult. On the way - there were many smaller temples. We visited all of them. All of us were dispersed according to our speed and capacity. We reached the top the first - so had to wait for everybody to start entering the temple. It was equally difficult for mummy to climb - for her age (58). But believe me, today she is much well off than all of us. She climbed without any help. So the doli was not used at all - all the children didnt budge.<br />
After everybody reached the top, we entered the temple - Didi's family wanted to take a bath and then offer Puja. So we waited again. Finally after they were ready, we started with darshan.<br />
At around 11.45am, we started our way back downhill. We reached at around 12:45. This time, the doli was occupied by me with Eva. She wasnt ready to sit alone. So I sat with her to relieve Manish. Other doli still came back empty.<br />
We reached down and were all damn hungry. Entered the firstrestaurant serving sugarcane juice and yummy Jain Bhel. Then we went to the hotel to rest and wait till all of the family members arrived. At around 1:30, other arrived and we went for lunch in the nearby Bhojanshala.<br />
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Then came back after the sumptuous meal and off to sleep... Got up for a tea in the evening and then went to Hastipur - another Jain temple on a hill - here the car goes till the top. A very beautiful spot - amidst nature. Then at around 7 pm, headed back to Palitana. Then off to dinner. We had Pav bhaji this time and other snacks. We roamed in the market - yes we had the energy - females always have energy to shop.<br />
Had ice-creams and then back to room. Manish and myself wanted to have goti-soda and ice gola. But we were so full that we gave them a miss.<br />
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Next morning started our journey to Sasan Gir - around 180km from Palitana. Reached Sasan Gir at around 3.30pm. Then Manish enquired about the safari and Jiju looked for hotel. We got a decent hotel - inspite of the great Diwali rush. We had enough time - so we headed to Somnath merely 40 km from there. We thought we can get to Somnath by sunset. Sunset is the significant thing in Somnath - you should not miss it... the sun sets in the sea. We were on the beach by 5pm. But the sun was in the clouds... So inspite of being there on time, we didnt actually get to see the sun setting in the sea.<br />
Nevertheless, all enjoyed in the water and the camel ride. Then we went to the Somnath temple. A very very beautiful one - we were lucky to not have much rush. So, we got to admire the temple at peace.<br />
Then went back to Sasan. Next morning we had to get early for the jeep safari. This time, we decided not to take children with us - since all of them were scared to go to the jungle. Only Jiju, Bhai and Bhabhi, Manish, myself and Eva went for the safari. Saw lot of wild animals - the forest is not that dense as compared to Corbett. Saw a lion sleeping in the jungle - his kill right besides him. The lion had eaten the flesh and was sleeping... Supposedly for 2 days. So we cud not get to see lion awake in the jeep safari. The safari was very disappointing for us - since we had lot of expectations - having been to Corbett and Kabini, we had thought of lot of animal sighting. <br />
Then we went to the interpretation zone with children - did a bus safari where we saw lot of lions. <br />
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Then after that, we were on our way back to Ahmedabad. Reached back at around 9 pm. <br />
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Next day, started for Udaipur. Reached Kesariyaji at around 9am. And then reached home in Udaipur by 11.30am. Next two days, it was more of relaxing and preparing for next trip and meanwhile celebrate Diwali. After Diwali, we went to Sajjangarh in Udaipur. Its a nice place - a palace now turned in a nature interpretation museum and a sunset point. Its situated on the top of a hill from where you get a view of the city of Udaipur.<br />
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Next 2 days, we spent in Kanera - visiting our relatives after almost a year - seeing lot of peacocks in the farms and eating and enjoying the leisure.<br />
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After we returned back to Udaipur, we had next trip to go. Next day (10th Nov) we started for Ranakpur. Ranakpur has beautiful Jain temple - a temple surrounded by mountains.. Its world renowned for its carvings and its pillars. Lot of stories behind every carving. Then next was Pawapuri. On the way, we also stopped at Swarna Mandir in Falna. Its said that all the ladies of Falna contributed little gold for this Swarna Mandir.It has glass temple also.<br />
Then we reached <a href="http://www.idartirth.org/">Pawapuri</a> in the evening at around 7pm. Took accomodation there and then after dinner, we went for Darshan. I was awed by the idols - very calm and beautiful. Felt like looking at them for all my life. Eva was happy playing in the fountains there. There is a Jal mandir also.<br />
In the morning, we took the cable car ride in Pawapuri. Stopped at the Gaushala where we got the privilege of feeding cows.<br />
After such a beautiful journey of self, we headed to <a href="http://www.indianetzone.com/19/important_places_sirohi.htm">Bhairu Tarak and then Jay Jirawala</a>.<br />
Then spent evening in Nakki Lake, Mt Abu. Next two days, we went seeing the hill station - but it was again seeing the temples in the mountains. Went to Gurushikhar and the Adhar Devi Temple and Brahmakumari places. The best place i liked was the Nakki Lake - chilled out - had good food - window shopped and then had good food and ice creams. Both the evenings, we went to the Dilwara temple (8th wonder now) - in the morning there is not a place to stand and in the evening at around 7 pm - its calm and serene - no visitors - only Jains doing Bhakti Bhavana. We got enough time there - Eva was also in good mood - so we got to do the Puja the second day. <br />
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And then next morning (13 Nov) we started early again to reach Ambaji. Went to the temple in Ambaji. We hadnt thought if we would be able to go the top of the mountain by ropeway since we were running short of time - our return flight scheduled in evening from Ahmedabad. First we thought, we would visit the temple and then decide. When we reached the parking - an interesting thing happened - i wud say a miracle. A man came to us and said that come with me - i will show you the way. We decided to go with him since we didnt have time to think. He showed us the place to keep our chappals. Then in the temple, he took us to the pooja stall to buy flowers, prasad, chattra and coin etc. Then, he asked us to come with him. There was a long queue till outside the temple. I told him that we dont want to do darshan on camera. "Where was he taking us?" He said - trust me. Then he waved to the security guard and then to our surprise, we were infront the idol inside the temple... Could not believe that we had jumped the queue (not really) and saved an hour there. We took the darshan and back to the pooja stall to pay for the stuff we had bought. Then just for information, we asked if there was similar rush to go to the mountain... No - no rush there - pat came the reply. Only 3 minutes to go by ropeway and 3 minutes return back by ropeway. So, we saw each other and we were in the tram on the ropeway. On the mountain top, there is akhand jwala - the place is supposed to be the place where lord Krishna had shaved his head in his childhood. We cudnt believe that we were through both the temples in an hour ... inspite of a lot of crowd.. Thanks to the man and God bless him.<br />
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Then back to Ahmedabad, met Didi Jiju again and off to Bangalore flight.Swetahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10381841473934201421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8771737.post-83741093266424735912010-09-24T23:00:00.000+05:302010-09-24T23:00:33.062+05:30kabini videos<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxZyr14HjpUFYBQYoYR2FIIgPV3ay53Cl759ijSK0FrT6Q2PW5e7xQnKCTKVqBGH8XlsS2O6fR1_A' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyhj7evRWb0c_68siYrVCrhG0VPifKOZySaYjrDtH9D42UeJLHc2nlRvpy_Qz2bVF4FUptBOkZZmag' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>our close shave with the elephant at kabini - nagarhole national park.. almost attacked us...Swetahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10381841473934201421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8771737.post-41550733698054909242010-09-24T21:06:00.002+05:302010-09-24T21:06:19.775+05:30kabini photos<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/swetag/KabiniNagarholeNationalPark">http://picasaweb.google.com/swetag/KabiniNagarholeNationalPark</a>#Swetahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10381841473934201421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8771737.post-71646260263415443322010-09-13T21:11:00.000+05:302010-09-13T21:11:28.942+05:302D 1N visit to KabiniKabini (Rajiv Gandhi National Park) had been on our travel list from quite some time. We had great memories of Corbett. And we wished to have similar ones from Kabini.<br />
We found that Jungle Lodges and Resorts have their resort there and they have a very good reputation. So we booked a room online. It was a long weekend. So thought we would go for 3days and 2 nights. But found online that no room was available. Then we decided to go for whatever was available since we didnt want to miss the opportunity to visit the national park. So, we were going for a 1 night stay there. It included 2 safaris, a coracle ride and all other regular stuff. <br />
Hectic schedule, and we were looking forward to this trip to unwind ourselves.<br />
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We decided to go by the route suggested by teamBhp on their website. i.e. Bangalore - Ramanagar - Maddur - Mandya - Mysore (Outer Ring Road - dont enter city) - H.D Kote road - Kabini. Its around 240km from our place in Bangalore.<br />
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We left at 7 am sharp from our place in Bangalore and we reached Maddur at around 9 am. Had breakfast at Barrista (I will NOT recommend it. Have at Adigas or Kamat Indradhanush or CCD). And then reached Kabini at 12:45 pm. The JLR Kabini River resort is a great property - huge one with lot of trees, well maintained gardens and the best part the FOOD is sumptuous and simple. I loved the food there. Their boats and jeeps are well maintained. Ok, come to the safari part - Always opt for a river safari in the evening and jeep safari in the morning times. Both were equally enjoyable. On the river safari, we saw lot of birds - migratory birds. My favorite is Bremini Kite from the Eagle family. Just loved it and it got etched in my heart.<br />
Others were diff storks - painted, white and all, grey and white herons and more (dont remem their names).<br />
Manish has shot many videos. Will upload them soon. We saw deers, sambar, wild boars and peacocks by the river. The weather was pleasant and the picture was breathtaking. Eva also enjoyed the safari.<br />
Then after the safari, we were back to the resort. Had tea and rested in the room. Then went for the wild-life film at the conference room in the resort. I was with Eva while Manish watched the film shot on wildlife at Kabini and Bandipur. Then headed to the Gol Ghar for Dinner. Yummy :)<br />
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Early morning at 6am, we got the knock from JLR crew to take coffee and get ready for the safari. We got ready and the jeep was there at 6.30 am. Started... Hoping to see the wildest of wild animals :) ... Last week, only elephants , gaur (indian bison) and wild dogs were sighted. <br />
After entering the forest, the first animal we sighted was.... yes, cudnt believe our luck .... we sighted the beautiful animal sleeping on the tree... his stomach looked filled.. It was from the cat family - the LEOPARD.<br />
What a start I thought. We all were filled with lot of happiness and enthusiasm. Lot of photos.. videos.. and yes, the leopard got up in between, stretched and then slept back :).<br />
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Then we saw many deers, sambars, peacocks, eagles, wood peckers, kingfisher. Twice we saw herds of elephants and more than once saw 1-2 elephants. Both the herds, the elephants were quite charging. Once, when we reached in front of them, the tusker blew huge trumpet - I was scared... But, it didnt react more.<br />
Second time, where we halted, the elephant was at just around 10 ft distance - having food. It then came sheepily came close to us - almost attacking. The video of the second halt is shot - a charmm... I will upload it soon.<br />
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Returning we saw the bison with its calf. And yes, the leopard was still on the tree.. sleeeeping...<br />
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Back then, had a filling breakfast at 10am and then went to the room. Got ready and bought some T-shirts for Eva from their centre. And then left back to Blore at around 12 pm. Reached here by 4.45pm. This time we had our lunch at Adigas in Maddur. Food was decent. I will recommend it.<br />
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All in all, a memorable trip.... :) want more and more :)Swetahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10381841473934201421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8771737.post-58324574183342873322010-08-22T22:49:00.002+05:302010-08-22T22:49:14.563+05:30PicturesAdded pictures to picasa here - <br />
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/swetag/Coorg">http://picasaweb.google.com/swetag/Coorg</a>Swetahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10381841473934201421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8771737.post-32018838415507833222010-08-19T17:50:00.000+05:302010-08-19T17:50:22.880+05:30The art of bloggingwell well.. i am not going to write how to develop this art. Its just a mention of BigB's blog here <a href="http://bigb.bigadda.com/">http://bigb.bigadda.com/</a> I like the way he blogs. He says that if you first plan what to write or if you are thinking of what to write on your blog, then you are NOT blogging. Blogging is writing whats on your mind. I am really inspired by his blogging. He writes everday - making meaning of what he has done today and also reassuring important things in life.<br />
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You may not expect a blog from me everyday . but i will try to write one asap.Swetahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10381841473934201421noreply@blogger.com0