BEING MUSLIM

I was in a situation where I had to take an emergency Visa to travel out of   NORWAY, when the ship we were sailing on was scheduled to sail to  LEVERPOOL, I had to sign off in a small village of  NORWAY called  HAUGESUND as I didn't have a Visa to  UNITED KINGDOM and  I would be liable to pay huge fine for entering without proper Visa stamping.

Not that I was having a  SCHENGEN Visa, but it was much easier for me to get an emergency Visa to fly out of the country. Now the procedures had to be started for me to get the special purpose Visa, the agent was asked to do the needful....I was required to go to the Consulate for the formalities.

Our vessel was there to unload Alumina at one private factory. The vessel was much larger than the Jetty or parking so there was no place for the Gangway or the step up ladder to be lowered for people to climb up or down. So we were forced to use the Pilot Ladder which is basically a rope made tied in the form of a ladder. Most of the men find it tricky as it requires courage and strength to go by the pilot ladder. I am a woman so its even more challenging.

I looked down...it was approximately seven to eight floors of height before I could step on the ground.  I stepped out holding tight , got the grip....two three steps were little scary...after that I was used to the ladder, everything was going good when came the camber and I was not having the wall support...oh...it was swinging...and I really felt like a monkey. Ha ha ha.. finally I jumped down and went to my cab. The driver opened the door for me and we set out to the Consulate.

Its a very beautiful village with around twenty thousand population...with cows in front of independent houses....yes cows...their main products are milk and meat. Lovely houses with gardens and cattle in front. I looked at the people on the roads, most of them were on bicycles with safety helmets and knee guards....kids to senior citizen...I asked the driver why most of them were using cycles? He said its for health and protecting the Environment...lesson learnt...in spite of owning cars people used cycles to conserve the environment.

Finally we reached the Consulate ...Politi or the police officer was seated at the front desk, our agent had already done the initial liaison so I was a welcome guest.....Hi Hi said the officer.....Hi Hi said few more people in the hall. I was taken by surprise...what do they mean by Hai Hai...anything wrong with me...or my papers were not in order?

Looking at me puzzled  the cab driver came to my rescue and told me its their way to say hello... my face lit up... I too reciprocated to the courtesy with their own Hi Hi...one room to the next..to the third...snap taken Visa issued.... First time in my life I have seen a Visa with Ship on it. Took leave and it was Bye Bye together....

On my way back I asked the cab deriver about his family, he had four children, two daughters and two sons....and six grand children. I was curious and asked how many of his children were married? He said no one...yes non of them were married. I felt it was very strange...he laughed and said previously people used to marry first and have children but now they first have children and then marry. Free countries no restrictions and taboos on the contrary Govt supports more children.

Back to my monkey trick.... had to climb back.. this time I was quick... but as I climbed higher my hands started aching... take a deep breath and few more steps,,, jumped in and happy to have completed my adventure. My tickets were ready... I was scheduled to travel next day Via Oslo...Doha ..New Delhi to Hyderabad.

Next morning same story... me and the Pilot Ladder adventure... same cab, driver loaded my luggage in the dickie and we started towards the airport, small airport with bare minimum staff, driver was allowed inside to help me with the luggage upto the security check...Bye Bye he left.

Boarded the connecting flight to Oslo.... landed... had a layover time of  five hours... what should I do? How long can I check on the shops?... women you know can spend hours and days in shops. Oslo airport is very huge with all major international retail chains having their outlets. I checked most of them and reached the cosmetics line... all brands with ready to help sales executives, was a spectacular view... the girls were more than willing to help me pick the products.

There was one part for a free trail makeover... in the airport who has the time? I was looking at one lip colour brand when this girl came to me and requested me to sit on the chair....she wanted to do the makeover on my face. I am not very keen for make up but the way she requested was very convincing.... I agreed because she would wipe my face back to normal after she was done.  Great I was killing my time and she was doing her job plus honing her skills...good for both.

She asked me where was I from... I said from India, she was very happy to find someone talk to her.  I asked about her... she was from IRAN... yes I heard it right... I was surprised to see a girl so far away especially from one of those troubled countries which are targeted for many wrong reasons.  She was very well behaved, soft spoken...with zeal to live... slightly wheatish complexion...not so perfect English... but was very duty minded. I liked her and asked more about her family.

Her family had moved out of Iran in search of work and were doing small jobs to survive.... they had left their everything behind to be called second class citizens in other countries, though the Scandinavian countries have a lot of value for human life. The girl was wanting to get married but couldn't find the 'right' match.

What is the fault of these innocent hard working people to be forced to live like 'Refugees' in other countries?? Just because they were from Iran and born Muslims?? This is not Humanity.... we all are in civilized world where Human Values are protected by Human Rights Commission.... all the big talks one side  and truth of life on the other side..... the two actually don't synch with each other.

I felt sorry for the people of the country...disturbed lives for no fault of theirs.

Yesterday came the fresh Salvo from Trump Govt ...with the stroke of a pen Donald Trump BANNED entry of most citizens especially Muslim Nationals from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Syria, Yemen, Sudan and Somalia into USA for 90 to 120 days...I don't want to go into the details of that.

I fail to understand why being born as a Muslim is considered a Sin or Crime in this 'World' ?

No wonder they have developed hatred for rest of the world.

SPREAD THE LOVE AND MAKE THE WORLD A PLACE TO LIVE HAPPILY.....

"Cycle Ko Haath Ka Saath"

Elections in Uttar Pradesh will be held in seven phases from February 11 to March 8

BJP President Amit Shah, who has the history of arrest and exile for charges of murder, extortion and kidnapping among other charges like illegal surveillance on a woman and Ishrat Jahan fake encounter case...
On Saturday the 28th Jan 2017  released  manifesto, called ‘Lok Kalyan Sankalp Patra’ (Pledge for People’s Welfare)

“The party is firm on the Ram temple issue…efforts will be made to ensure that Ram temple is constructed under the constitutional provisions,” Shah said.
“All BIMARU – Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh – states have become developed except UP,” he said.
'Promises' that Amit Shah made:

• Will distribute laptops to youth with 1 GB free internet if voted to power in UP.
• Special Task Force to be set up to put an end to illegal mining in Uttar Pradesh.
• All universities will get free Wi-Fi facility.
• 25 new medical colleges will be formed.
• Will set up 6 new AIIMS hospitals in the state
• Food processing park to be set up in Uttar Pradesh; 24 hours power to be supplied, cheaper rates for poor.
• BJP to form teams at district levels to check #exodus of people due to communal tension
• Free education up to Class XII; fees to be waived up to graduation level for meritorious students.
• Agricultural loans to be waived.
• Slaughter houses to be closed down in Uttar Pradesh.

Its so thoughtfully designed that gives a clear message that Uttar Pradesh will be transformed into Paradise if BJP is voted to power. Its so very beautiful for BJP president Amit Shah to promise the sky and later say its all 'Jumlas" to keep promising many things during election speeches. We don't actually mean them.

BJP president Amit Shah has said Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statements during the Lok Sabha election campaign that Rs 15 lakh will be deposited in the bank accounts of all Indians once the black money is recovered was a political 'jumla' (idiom).

When he talks on establishing  Medical colleges and  AIIMS, I want to know where was this high thinking when they made Smriti Irani their Union HRD Minister whose education qualifications are questionable. Not to mention PM Narendra Modi's education.

Free education, laptops, Wi-Fi.....can that wipe off the scars of Rohit Vemula or Najeeb Ahmed? I don't think so...Neither will they wipe out Vyapam Scam.

Ram Mandir issue continues to be in the election Manifesto since 1992, we are yet to see it.

On 6 December 1992 they demolished the 16th century Babri Mosque and lead the way to intercommunal rioting between India's Hindu and Muslim communities for several months, causing deaths of at least 2,000 people. But now they talk of setting  #exodus of people due to communal tension. Irony died a several deaths.

They believe in Hindutva or Hindu Nationalism in India is their prime motto and they promise to help Muslim women in representing them for triple 'Talaq" in the court.

BJP believes that farmers who commit suicide are cowards and criminals, doesn't miss a chance in taking a dig on the Congress party for being with farmers and waiving their agricultural loans saying country will become poor if Congress keeps waiving farmers' loans. This time waiving agriculture loans also has made its way to BJP's election manifesto.

India exported 2.4 million tonnes of beef and veal in FY2015. India itself accounts for 23.5 per cent of global beef exports. This is up from a 20.8 per cent share last year. India's exports of beef are on the rise even as several states expand their bans on the slaughter of cows and bullocks, according to a report by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). But they talk of protecting Cows and banning slaughter houses.

"BJP is going hammer and tongs to return to power in UP after 15 years and will win by 2/3 majority", Amit Shah said very confidently. In that case why do you need to promise so many lies???
On the other hand Samajwadi Party now lead by Akhilesh Yadav has joined hands with Rahul Gandhi Vice President of Congress Party. They have not promised list of lies to the people. The duo were on the road show in UP where people went crazy to see them together.

Shows how grounded the two are, Akhilesh Yadav though the current CM with huge mass following has shown maturity beyond his age by forming the alliance. BJP tried all dirty tricks to demoralize him by creating differences between father and son, uncle and nephew....but all their efforts of fielding Amar Singh helped Akhilesh Yadav to gain complete control on the party. All said and done he was so sensible to see that his father Mulayam Singh Yadav was safe by providing extra security and making sure no riots or violence breaks out in the state.

This proves beyond doubt that Akhilesh Yadav is a born leader with lot of maturity of thought and speech. He has never lost his cool, under high pressure situation of family feuds. Never did he accuse or degrade his father's respect or party's pride. He is leadership and dignity personified. Come what may he will make his way out with a humble smile.
This is perfect alliance for UP 2017.

"Cycle Ko Haath Aur Haath Ko Cycle Ka Saath Pasand Hai'

# Mission Punjab with Captain Amerinder Singh

On 27th Jan 2017 BJP star campaigner Narendra Modi who is also the Prime Minister of India, glorified the Hindu-Sikh unity in his Punjab election rally to the state electorate from Jalandhar, Modi said, “Some people want to destabilise Punjab. They cannot digest the Hindu-Sikh unity in the state. Such forces need to be taught a lesson. People of Punjab would not forgive them."
Modi gave all the credit to Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal for safeguarding the communal harmony in Punjab.

“Elections would keep happening. Political equations may keep changing. But I want to ask the Opposition – why have you defamed my Punjab? Why are you maligning the youth of Punjab before the world,” Modi said, referring to the allegations of wide-scale drug menace in the state.

“The land of Punjab continues to give us veers (warriors) who serve at our borders. They are the most hardworking people. Punjabis are surging ahead in every sphere of life. How dare did the Opposition malign my Punjab?”

“Corruption affects most adversely the common man. His life is affected in the worst manner due to corruption. It is because of corruption that are masses are still reeling under poverty. But my government has taken the resolve, we would break the backbone of corruption. I may not be supported by the corrupts, but the people of India are with me. I have your blessings. Our government has taken the resolve of rooting out corruption from the nation.”

“Punjab is proud of surgical strikes because every other family in the state has sent their kin to the borders. Punjabis send their one son to the border and other to the field,” Modi added.

“Now elections are round the corner, so several politicians are attempting manipulate the farmers. They have levelled baseless accusations against Badal sahab. But I can assure you no can work as hard for farmers as your chief minister. Every time I met Badal sahab, he remains most concerned about issues affecting the agrarian community,” Narendra Modi said at the Jalandhar rally.

The Supreme Court of India made it illegal to seek votes in the name of religion, caste, race, community or language on 3rd January 2017.

This shows how much respect he has for the Supreme Court of India. Surprisingly the Election Commission also is caught napping, they have not uttered a word against this religiously glorified campaign. Does that mean BJP has no stopping no matter they illegally woo the voters in the name of religion or caste?

It proved yet again that Narendra Modi is capable of delivering pre written speeches. He has no idea of truth or facts. He has not wasted his valuable time on looking at the actual problems Punjab is captive in.

He is so confident of the Badals then why is Punjab reeling under so much Debt, to be precise its an average burden of  ₹38,000 per resident.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/elections/assembly-elections/punjab/news/here-every-resident-has-a-debt-burden-of-rs-38000/articleshow/56822841.cms

He accused the opposition of Maligning the youth of Punjab of drug addiction, he has been the Prime Minister for over 2.5 yrs now, didn't he think of looking into what is the truth of the drug menace in the state. The entire world media is speaking about it but he seems to be living in fairy land.

http://indiaopines.com/drug-addiction-in-punjab-politics/

 He was proud to mention the surgical strikes. But even surgical strike has evidently failed to deter Pakistan from exhibiting aggression against India. Although an attempt was made to create celebratory atmosphere by jingoist opinion makers after the surgical strikes, the reality at borders contradicted it. According to a report 32 Indian soldiers were killed after surgical strikes till 2016

And bigger question but why does the Govt fail to curb the drugs exchange across the border

https://in.finance.yahoo.com/video/rajnath-singh-warns-pakistan-over-102200551.html

On the other hand opposition leader and Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi slammed Punjab's ruling Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and its leading family, the Badals, for being complicit in drug trade and rampant corruption.

"I said four years ago that 70 per cent youth are affected by drugs. The Badals made fun of me. Now, whole Punjab is saying what I said,"
"We'll introduce such laws in the state that people will tremble at the thought of (using/trading) drugs."

"They (the Badals) have ruined the future of Punjab. But the people are not at fault, the government is. We (the Congress) are not here to make false promises. The government must deal with the serious issues of drugs and corruption. Only a Congress government can successfully do this,"

"Be it farmer, labourer or small time trader, they've all been bled dry by the current government. Congress will give the people's money back to them. Their money will go into developing your state,"

" When farmers see 'badal' (clouds), they feel happy in their hearts, but the Badals of Punjab are not so generous" was Rahul's poetic dig on Badals.

"On one hand, Modi says he is fighting corruption and on the other hand he is trying to help India's most corrupt person. So, Mr Modi, tell us clearly if you are fighting against corruption, then why are you standing by Sukhbir Badal. Why are you helping him. Entire Punjab knows Sukhbir Badal is a symbol of corruption, but you say no he is not a symbol of corruption. Now, whether people are right or whether you (Modi) are right, we will come to know in polls," he said.

http://www.financialexpress.com/industry/punjab-chief-minister-parkash-singh-badals-vast-empire/69471/

http://www.panthic.org/articles/2957

"Jo Congress kehti hai, vo karke dikhati hai," Rahul proclaimed to a cheering crowd and promised to end the debt of Punjab.

"Punjab will be run by Punjabis. Punjab Chief Minister will be from Punjab. Punjab's Chief Minister is sitting here. Amarinder Singh is Punjab Chief Minister. He will be the Punjab Chief Minister," Rahul Gandhi said and put an end to rumours that Navjot Singh Sidhu will be the chief ministerial candidate.

When I compare the two leaders:
⦁  I find Congress is strong in values and much closer to reality.
⦁ They understand the people and their needs well and think of solving their problems.
⦁  I don't say that it is possible to implement every plan with 100% success, but to have thought of a 100% plan makes a lot of difference to the lives of people.
⦁  Shows transparency in policy decisions made by Congress.
⦁ Shows the faith they have in their Captain Amerinder Singh.

Yes I too say..." Chalo Captain de naal te kar do Punjab nu khush haal".

# Mission Punjab with Captain Amerinder Singh

#MY VOTE MY RIGHT

In Independent India the Constitution gives every Citizen the right to Freedom to Speech and Expression.  India has seven states that will be going for State Legislative Assembly Elections in 2017. The tenure of the state legislative assembly of  Goa, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Manipur, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand term will end this year.

The political parties both at National and State level are working overtime for elections. They are gathering their existing strengths and trying to add new aces and face. Every level of party cadre is working on new strategies, planning poll campaign, print media mentions, digital media bytes....social media campaigns...nothing is left untouched by the election hustle.

Media houses are conducting poll surveys - Opinion Polls, Exit Polls, Election Poll Survey, On-Line Polls....I don't know how many types of polls they conduct. Not my cup of tea. But why should I lag behind, let me also put forth my own personal opinion on polls. Let me start with the largest state Uttar Pradesh.

The surveys say

The UP assembly has 403 members, must win 202 seats to get a majority. According survey expectations Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) headed by Mayawati wins 115-124 seats, present ruling Samajwadi Party wins 94-103 seats, Congress wins 8-12 seats. All this means that even with clear majority BJP will not get enough seats to form the Govt and there is a possibility that it may have to form an alliance or two with the other parties who are expected to win 2-6 seats. In fact, in certain other polls the other parties (10%) are expected to do better than Congress (6%). Take a look:

Latest UP Opinion Poll by India Today-Axis

All the surveys are very confidently pointing out at BJP being the winner, very optimistic and faithful surveys. Appreciate their efforts.

Going by the election rallies by their star campaigner Narendra Modi, he is being greeted by empty chairs, not to mention bus loads of audience being driven from MP and Bihar. In 2014 it was the case of anti incumbency which ruled out Congress. But the BJP failed in doing good to the country on the contrary they have crippled the economy with their disastrous decision of #DeMonetisation. BJP has proved itself as a failure in every way.

India without Congress?

After Amit Shah became BJP President– they wanted to rid India of Congress. More than 50% of their correspondents straightway rejected, while 54% have not liked the idea. BJP has received support from 29% and 17% are not really sure.

All those who have rejected or haven't  agreed to the idea have one uniform opinion about Congress which speaks a thousand words and billion minds - They believe in Congress for playing the vital role in India achieving Independence. Not stopping there, post Independence the Congress party has ruled India for six decades and has really worked from scratch to build India that we live in today.

The world has felt our presence and has recognised India as the fastest growing Economy. We have made our mark in science and technology, the world looks forward for Indian talent in many fields all thanks to the strong education system which has the IISC, IIST, IITs, IIMs, ISB,..just to name a few.

I relate myself to that vibrant India which is full of life and real people, who don't work overtime for photo sessions and manipulating data & statistics. Congress party has the strength of Experience, Intelligence, Knowledge and the support of true people who believe in "together we grow stronger".

Yes growing together is visible in the alliance of SP and INC in UP....CM Akhilesh Yadav is a born leader and has the capability to outwit his opponents without saying a harsh word. He plans ahead and smiles his way out of all the dubious tricks played by his opponents to see him cornered. He has the support of his untiring wife Dimple Yadav who may not be good in politics but is excellent in seeing her husband's pride intact.

The perfect couple have formed alliance with the best siblings Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi to fight it tooth and nail. They are blessed with the experience and support of their elders Mulayam Singh Yadav and Sonia Gandhi, which makes the perfect formula to combat all the challenges in their way to form the Govt with complete majority.

Don't go by the surveys because people like me can change their mind even in front of the EVM. Laugh aloud....because this is true, people are unpredictable.

I am sure there are many who think like me...ITS MY VOTE MY RIGHT

“I am Rajiv Gandhi’s daughter,” Priyanka Gandhi

India is the country where Goddesses are worshipped,  women are considered goddess of wealth, prosperity, education  and strength. Daughters are considered blessings of goddess of wealth and prosperity. This is what I strongly believe in. But reality has something different to offer.....take a look....

Yesterday I witnessed digital media and social media flooded with discussions and criticism on BJP MP Vinay Katiyar's sexist remark on Priyanka Gandhi. But what did he actually say?

He said on record that " BJP has prettier star campaigners than Priyanka Gandhi"......but why did he ever say that? Going back into comments made by  male leaders, I found most of them had at least one sexist comment to their credit. Why can't they have? they are "The Men' with moustache.
Lets have a glance at some of the 'glorious' comments made by "The 'Men" -

• Narendra Modi -Called Sunanda Pushkar a fifty crores girl friend.
• NaMo -On  Malnutrition rates in Gujarat: middle class girls are beauty conscious than health conscious...won't drink milk..fear of getting fat.
• NaMo- Did  Sonia ji bring 10000 crore as dowry?
• NaMo - If a daughter is born plant five trees along your farm so that you can sell the timber to fund her wedding.
• Arun Jatley - on Delhi nirbhaya case one single mention would cost us billions of $ loss in tourism revenue.
• Manohar Parekar - On rape : If a woman is raped she has to answer to one Inspector during enquiry, but she has to answer 16 inspectors to start a SSI.
• Sharad Yadav - Women of south are dark but are as beautiful as their bodies.
• Muqtar Abbas Naqvi - Women wearing lipstick and powder have taken to streets in Mumbai abusing politicians' Democracy, this is what terrorists are doing in Kashmir.
• Dayashankar Singh - Compared Mayawati to a 'prostitute'.
• Sakshi Maharaj - Hindu women must produce at least four children to "protect" Hinduism.
• Babul Gaur - Rape is a social crime - sometimes right sometimes wrong....

These are just few picks....list is pretty long.  Coming back to our discussion..it shows the men in India don't seem to accept the fact that women are much more than just beautiful face and body.
Women have made their way by shear hard work fighting tooth and nail against the male dominant society to make their presence felt loud and clear in every field they ever chose.

This  didn't happen just in this modern era...when ever the country was in crisis we saw them rise up to the occasion and contribute to the cause...Begum Hazrat Mahal, Madam Bhikaji Cama, Kasturba Gandhi, Sucheta Kriplani, Annie Besant, Hansa Mehta, Kamala Nehru, Vijay Lakshmi Pandit, Aruna Asafi Ali, Sarojini Naidu, Pandita Ramabai, Rani Lakshmibai...have left their mark in history.

Modern India - is proud of Indira Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, Sushma Swaraj, Mamata Banerjee, Mayawati, Pratbha Patil, Sheila Dikshit, Jayalalita, Meira Kumar, Medha Patkar, Mahabooba Mufti, Hema Malini, Menaka Gandhi....Priyanka Gandhi....

Yes this sweet grand daughter of the great Iron Lady  of India, Smt. Indira Gandhi has striking resemblance to her grand mother. She looks, talks , thinks, walks and responds back to her opponents with similar resonating sharpness....that's why she sends tremors to shake up the opposition.

Her public appearance makes them so nervous that they lose control on their thoughts and words. Every time she was attacked by these sexists she has been graceful enough to reply them back befittingly...like yesterday she laughed at Vinay Katiyar and said this exposes BJP's mind set.
Narendra Modi  had purportedly remarked that he considers Priyanka Gandhi like a daughter.

“I am Rajiv Gandhi’s daughter,” was Priyanka Gandhi's  terse reply

Take a note gentlemen here comes PRIYANKA GANDHI
 

My American #Burger

Indian people are very conservative especially the South Indians. We have elaborate rituals of cooking, serving and eating food during festivals. But we too have adopted to modern life style of eating on dining tables, spoon and fork have made their way into our lives as if they were always there.

What ever may be the case the south Indian in me continues to be alive. Its not that we restrict ourselves to only south Indian food, I cook north Indian food pretty well and sometimes make Chinese too.

Life is going on, we saw new food trends and joints come into the city. Chinese noodle, Italian Pizzas, Burgers... made their way into our lives. Children started going to school and now their demands have been changing.

McDonald had become a fad for every school going kid. My children were not untouched, they wanted to go out to dine at McDonald... Could any parent ever escape a child's request? I also couldn't....had no choice but to plan our dinner for a Sunday.

Sunday evening we all got ready to go to McDonald for dinner. Found a table, made ourselves comfortable. Children ordered their meals and I was feeling little uncomfortable in the noise, as we had never been to noisy places for dinners. I am that old school type, soft music and minimum noise hotels.

Self service was a new experience, brought the trays to the table. Children were very excited to see burgers with French fries and coke in front of them. Now came the time for me to eat the American #Burger.

I opened the wrapper and saw the Burger in front of me....big bun stuffed with patty, something similar to our vada pav, but with cheese, and veggies... looked  beautiful and tempting with 4" height. I looked at my children enjoying the feast, eating with both hands, mouth full and face partially smeared with cheese. Quite a sight..to see them happy.

My turn...I took hold of my  #Burger..hesitantly with both hands...opened my mouth. But it won't go in...I opened my mouth little more...same situation. I was feeling very odd, my eyes stealthily scanned the panoramic view of the outlet...no one was watching, all were busy eating their meal.

I gathered more courage and opened a wider mouth and took a dig into my Burger...first one. My eating style had changed..used both hands and opened my mouth three times larger than normal....

My American #Burger.....changed me for life...I am Loving It..

Its not that we have made this as our main course, just for a change its fun to try different cuisines and learn about different cultures and traditions. Every country has something special to offer to the world.

But I feel very proud to say that I am an Indian with so many different customs and traditional values, festivals to mark every season, celebrations to mark important occasions. The Indian food is so well balanced to give taste, energy and health.

The Indian in me always wins.....can't stop being Indian

#Power of Indian Saree

I was travelling to Houston. That day I reached Mumbai from Hyderabad to collect some documents from the office and proceed to the airport to catch my flight via Doha.

As I was to go to the office, I wore a saree and started my journey to Mumbai. Being a South Indian I am equally comfortable in Sarees and churidars. I reached the airport little early thinking I could check into the lounge and relax, but they didn't allow entry before four hours.

I was forced to wait outside, saw some people sitting on pavement, some how found little place for myself. I was alone, didn't know what to do when suddenly someone said Hi! I said Hello!. He asked where was I going? told him and asked about him, he was a cardiologist from Argentina, was going home.

He started talking on Indian spices, food and culture. He was very helpful till we cleared our Immigration and parted ways to our boarding gates. Boarded my flight, there was one Gujrati family as my co passengers. The lady started talking to me, told I was going to Houston, she said America..? In saree..? I felt little odd...but didn't have any option.

Finally landed in Houston, my luggage arrived..it was very heavy for me to pull it out from the conveyor, one hand suddenly came and helped me. He was an officer, he carefully loaded my suitcases on the trolley and smiled as I thanked him.

I wasn't aware that I was travelling on special privileges equal to that of officers of crew, one officer saw my papers, hauled my trolley and took me to the special counter for immigration. I looked around all were looking at me with beautiful smiles on their faces, I felt like a queen...completed my immigration.

Now was customs because I was carrying food, I found help here too, lifting my suitcases, unpacking and repacking with a senior officer overlooking all that. Wow all eyes on me.. came out of the airport where my agent was waiting for me with placard, from there he took over.

On the way we had to go for port Immigration once again I was on top of the world. Both men and women complemented me for my saree... yes that's true.. my saree.

Now I realised... It was my saree which called for all the attention...I remembered the story of Indira Gandhi ji and Indra Nooyi. I felt proud to an Indian woman. Now I too can say that the woman who can carry herself gracefully in a six yard saree receives respect from everyone and everywhere.

No wonder BJP fears saree clad Sonia Gandhi ji and her beautiful daughter Priyanka.

    That is the unsung #Power of Indian Saree!!

​#Politics Of Indian Politics

Indian parents believe in making their children studying well and become successful individuals. Parents wake up early to see the children get everything before they leave for school and sleep late to see their children complete their homework's. Our motto is excel in your work and lead a successful life.

But this belief has been challenged ever since Modi ji became PM. Everyday we get to read about his fake degrees and achievements, to add to the misery his HRD minister was also found under qualified not only for such high post but also to fight elections. These are just examples of the 'highly' qualified office bearers of this Government.

Qualification credentials of Modi ji are being asked to be made public under RTI Act, but no answer to any plea. Suddenly a DU pass certificate was leaked on internet..it said year 1978 and was computer printed marks sheet, poor guys don't have the basic knowledge that computers came into the country during Rajiv Gandhi as PM i.e. post 1984. During 1978 marks were written by hand not computer printed. Lie caught.

He being flamboyant high voltage speech reader has himself confessed that he didn't study beyond school. We don't have to take offence on his education provided he knew how to use his advisory board to benefit the country because they are cream of the nation the IAS, IPS, IRS, IFS etc.. But he proved yet again that qualification is mandatory. Country has witnessed Modi ji flying around the globe and spending tax payers' money for his brand image building.

We have seen all the developments in his speeches and posters nothing in reality. His speeches are oriented towards cheers and claps not facts and details. His fascination to look good, be in headlines, change five pairs a day, deliver monologues and degrade the Gandhi family has no bounds. His monologues are suitable for master of ceremony not a PM of Democratic India.

As if all this was not enough he made a monumental disaster of Demonetisation without proper preparation, he rendered the ATMs dry overnight and forced the country to stand in serpentine queues to change the old currency notes to new ones. But Indian population didn't protest because he promised to wipe out #corruption,#blackmoney, #terrorism...asked for fifty days.

The fifty days have become seventy days but country still has withdrawal limit of 24,000/- per week, which used to be per day limit on normal debit card. To camouflage his failure he took to new song of #digitisation and said stop ATM use #PayTM. RBI has changed over 100 rules in past seventy days, as a result RBI has got new found fame of Reverse Bank of India.

Opposition doesn't get to discuss or ask questions in the Parliament, people don't know which rule was scrapped when, we were in the opinion of having RBI norms to be like weather forecasts on regular intervals.

This was to lighten up the grim mood, now back to our subject Nobel Laurets and world renouned Economists have condemned #Demonetisation. They compared the situation to puncturing the wheels of running economy of one of the fastest developing country in the world.

Our Ex-PM Dr. Manmohan Singh who is an Economist himself has warned a drop of GDP by 2%, but our Modi ji is very busy selling new apps and lottery schemes to the poor people. He has no intentions to correct the faults, instead his PR team is busy controlling the media, data and statistics. They are managing SM, misusing it to spread fake news and abuse the opposition. Abuses and  lies are their way of governance.

In less than three years if country has been crippled can we imagine our future if this govt continues one more term? We have to save our today and tomorrow.....I know you agree.
We have to start now with the forthcoming elections. Let us rethink our future...
before we go to vote we need to think: Progress or Religious hate & Riots.

Its time we have to understand the Politics of Indian Politics and vote out the Politics by voting for Development.

JAI HIND!! JAI HIND!! JAI HIND!! JAI HIND!! JAI HIND!! JAI HIND!!



Co written by
K. Padma Rani & Aseem Panjwani

Many things in #Name

This was during my high school days in Bangaluru. I was more of a Tom boy,  most of the time involved in extra curricular activities.. don't get confused I don't sing or dance. My extra activities were writing news & thought of the day on school board, helping my library ma'm in arranging books, carrying notebooks to staffroom, helping the examination coordinator in organising the stationary etc...very busy.
I was not 'out' standing student, I had NCC and sports to keep me active. I played Hockey for the school team and represented Bangaluru Region for Junior girls and made it to Karnataka state junior team, though couldn't play due to Xth boards.
As usual the inter school games and sports meet came, our school had talent and stamina overflowing. We won the inter school matches and were to play regionals in Hyderabad. I managed to get permission to go to Hyderabad.
All set to travel by a Video Coach, those days it was luxury when computers were just making their way into schools. With four staff members we were forty sports kids for different track and games events. To travel to Hyderabad, the city of Nawabs, our enthusiasm knew no bounds. We boarded the bus...non of us was willing to sleep.
We sang our way by playing antaakshari, all in happy mood. Had snacks and dinner but Hyderabad...still miles away. I was most excited because I am from Andhra Pradesh, my pride was soaring higher with every passing hour.
It was 23:00 hrs when we entered Hyderabad...oh my gosh we finally reached!! We were to go to Bolarum in Hyderabad for our stay and sports meet. It was midnight and there were very few people on the roads.
Driver uncle too was native of Bangaluru, so we had no option but to ask our way to the destination, he asked some one and was told to take left and go ten furlongs..ok...we didn't know what was furlong but driver uncle understood.
At 23:45 hrs we were still taking right and left turns, once again he enquired the way, this time it was...take left and ten furlongs...01:45 hrs....driver uncle some how managed to find some one to tell us the way to Bolarum. Some serious discussions and driver uncle showed the written address. After reading the address...this guy said something and there was silence when we saw their shocked faces.
He told us to take a U turn and go all the way back to where we had asked the direction for the first time..yes that's right...no option. We were very angry but contained the restless to set our foot in Hyderabad city.
Finally we reached back to the spot but this time requested one local person to board the coach and take us to Bolarum. He agreed looking at our drooped faces, we set out to our destination and lo we reached Bolarum, in Hyderabad City.
It was 05:00 hrs and we jumped out of the coach, I walked a little ran a little...till suddenly I was curious to know why we lost our way? I carefully parked myself near our PET sir to listen to the conversation.
My discovery of truth was: Hyderabad is not one but twin cities Hyderabad & Secunderabad,  there are not one but two Bolarums in Hyderabad City, one each in either of the twin cities...Miyapur Bollaram in Hyderabad and Bolarum in Secunderabad which has the Rashtrapati Nilayam. Both have same pronunciation.
I am sure by now every one has understood that we were shuttling between Bollaram and Bolarum...


Many things in #Name...

My #Phantom of Funding

Sitting at home I suddenly  thought of doing something productive! but what? I went through the internet, read project reports, success stories, start ups, funding , etc.. etc.. everything cover to cover.

Finally I got the brilliant life changing Idea of  my dream project and that was of a gated community with world class amenities, architecture, design, ambience, everything best in class. Yes classy people need class in everything dayroom to washroom, parking to play ground.

I tried my best to be all in one but with nil experience and negligible knowledge, I was helpless sooner than I thought. Now I decided to rope in my good friends for better ideas and support. I brought in one friend with suitable land for the project, one more with rich father for our initial expenditures and now we were three good to go.

We hired a civil engineer to give us the plan, an architect to design it, contractor for labour, vendors and suppliers were listed. We were on fire working eighteen hours a day discussing, meeting and finalising things. We were on cloud nine and launched the website of the project.

We were more than happy because we didn't have the slightest idea of what was waiting in store for us. Then came the D' day when we started working on our Funding, C A and Financial consultants came into the picture.... days became longer nights became shorter as we were all inexperienced on financial aspect of the project.

Now we required the liaison officer to represent us for capital investment. We named him our FM... Fund Manager not Finance Minister, he claimed to have 'good' connections, we believed him. He would arrive on a chauffer driven car sponsored by us and take us to one bank per day, we would meet the AGM, discuss the project details, have tea and come back, till we visited all the banks listed in the country.

Days and months rolled but we couldn't get the investment, it was important for us to do something soon. We pooled our best ideas and thought of bringing Foreign Investor... there we got the idea and we set to make it true.

Now we were meeting every one who claimed to know an "Investor" overseas.  Everyday we met dozens of agents and representatives. Every time we were paying for their travel and expenditure to fix the appointment, exchange documents, food etc.. etc.. But we weren't even inching towards our goal.

We took the big decision and thought of going to the "investor" ourselves. Now our search was for that particular agent who would take us to the "investor".  Finally we succeeded in finding our knight of swords.  He promised us one to one meeting in Hong Kong with the "Investor".

All the arrangements were made for the great meeting, Tickets for three of us, our C A, our knight and five 'representatives' from which side exactly not known to us, in our excitement, we didn't think it important to find out. Rooms in Star Hotel were booked, advances were given for little shopping for travel.

We were all set to fly, reached the airport and landed safely. All made ourselves comfortable in the luxurious hotel rooms, had good food and took rest for the day. Next day was the meeting scheduled, we were happy and eager to meet the "investor".

Next day.. morning became afternoon and then evening but no one came to meet us. We insisted to know the reason.. we learnt that "investor" had to fly to Kuala Lumpur for some urgent matter and was expect after two days. We had two days on hand so decided to go around the place, more expenditure but we didn't mind.

The investor delayed his return by another two days, we consoled ourselves and agreed to wait for him. The bills were soaring as ten of us enjoying our 'holidays' in Hong Kong. We sat down to work out where to draw the line. After two days again we were only waiting to hear nothing, now we had to put our foot down.

We pressurised the agent to learn that there was no "Investor"....all that he wanted was to fly to Hong Kong and enjoy. All six were enjoying at our expense and we were... swiping every card to clear the bills......

We came back....to our home...and to our senses...and swore never to run behind #Phantom of Funding....

But the desire of project......is still alive...will continue....

MY SEARCH FOR #BLACK MONEY

One evening I was sitting in a coffee shop sipping my black coffee. Suddenly I was drawn towards discussions going on the table on the other side of the shop. Five guys were talking about black money, I was not able to understand. what is this black money? I have heard of this before  on the television, read in news papers, but like most Indians could never see it.

Now my intrest and curiosity shot up and I was eager to lay my hands on atleast one note of black money. I listened to their conversation very keenly, just heard one guy saying he has the "client" with $s in black! my heart missed a beat and my ears were at 100% efficiency to gather maximum information.

The coffee arrived- three by five, all stopped for a minute to add sugar as they waited for the waiter to leave. Again the conversation resumed at black $s, one said his "client" had just come from USA with bundles of black $s . Second was curious like me and asked why were they black? the answer was because they have to pass through security that's why they have painted them black. Ooh makes sense and appriciation for the very intelligent person who thought of this innovative way. Great guy!! my eyes were eager to see this intelligent human.

I pulled my chair towards their table, now that my curiosity has become my only desire in life. The five guys looked at me, paused for a minute and resumed. I am not an easy nut to give up easily, so I squeezed into their conversation slowly. I made friends and agreed to buy some black $s myself. Next day we were to meet at the same place and do the deal.

Next day came I was bubbling with anxiety while we were waiting for the 'client' minutes passed and hours rolled coffees cups emptied but he never came. We departed with heavy hearts to meet again next day.... same story ..days ..weeks. but my desire won't die.

Now I set on my own to find the "client" after a lot of searching and hunting managed to meet one guy who had met the "client" and had bought few black $s. Now I was zeeling with excitement and coaxed him to show me how that looked, He with lot of difficulty brought one black bill. I wanted to see how it looked actually. Now I persuaded this guy to wash it and show the actual bill.

He agreed reluctantly because I was willing to buy it from him, we closed the doors of the room, carefully took the bill to the wash basin and dipped it in a bowl of water. Finally I was this close to seeing the black money, my heart was thumping and I could hear it.

The water was becoming black, my face lit up and I couldn't wait longer. We took out the bill from the water and carefully wiped it. My eyes were popping out of the sockets to get a glimpse of the first look. Wait a minute..... it looks white... yes that's right it is white in colour. We flipped it upside down to see it white on either side.

It was white paper cut to the size of $ bill... I was speechless.

But my search will continue........

AN APPEAL TO MY FELLOW INDIANS

This is a sincere appeal to all Indians who believe in being pro India and not any party. All Indians who believe in constitution of India. This appeal is to tell all Indians not to vote for BJP in this forthcoming election in 5 states. Voting for BJP will strengthen Modi and weaken democracy and lead this country towards emergency, chaos and destruction.
This appeal doesn't say that Dr. Manmohan Singh was better PM. This doesn't say Rahul Gandhi or Arvind Kejriwal can be better PM. Many scams took place during congress government and am sure will continue in future too.
Many during other governments. Scams are still happening. But Modi is dangerous for constitution and democracy.
We have been slowly taken towards dictatorship.
Our freedom is being taken away slowly.
We have been taken for granted.
Modi promised lot of things before election like all politicians do but Modi's promises were fake.
It's not possible to have smart cities in India
His budget for 100 smart cities is less then budget of Bombay municipal council.
Black money will never be brought back from Swiss bank. We have seen his negligible efforts in doing so in spite of the fact that he has a list of Swiss accounts.
Modi doesn't do any press conference, he believes only in high drama speeches or monologues.
Even Donald trump did press conference few days back and faced media and answered their questions.
Modi forces people to listen to his mann ki baat but he doesn't listen to others mann ki baat. When the soldier said his mann ki baat his character was assassinated.
He is running the country like his dictatorship. He is a Narcissistic to the core.
Kapil Sharma complained against BJP corruption in BMC, as a result an FIR was logged against him instead of taking action against those who were asking for bribe from him to give occupancy certificate.
He is controlling CBI, IB, ARMY, RBI in his own hands and doesn't give them freedom to probe neutrally or work efficiently.
Army chief appointment he interfered.
CBI he is misusing.
Judiciary he is manipulating.
Raghuram Rajan didn't bow to his dictatorship
As a result RBI governor Urjit Patel a Gujrati and relative of Ambaani was promoted to  misuse RBI
Demonetisation is done to win UP elections.
Mayawati, Congress and Akhilesh Yadav like all political parties have lot of money, BJP is no exception.
Modi safeguarded BJP's black money before announcing demonetisation
Modi doesn't care for people those who died in the serpentine queues.

People those who suffered
He just wants to win elections and take over the country towards absolute dictatorship
Demonetisation and terrorism are not linked.
Terrorist funding is mostly done by wire transfer not by cash
He destroyed economy, growth and jobs to benefit himself and his corporate friends.
He doesn't want to solve Kashmir issue which he swore to do so before elections.
BJP already in power there at present.
He visited Kashmir before elections but post elections he never found time to visit.
For going around the Globe he has enough and more time and money.
NPA is bigger problem than anything at present which is killing the Banking System
NPA or non performing asset, means those loans which big industrialists take from government banks and run their business and become richer, don't repay the principle or interest to the banks and try to run away like Vijay Mallya.

But this Govt will do nothing to recover that instead they will write off huge interests of the big and mighty few.
Now all money which we deposited in banks will be given as loan to those corporates again.
We want freedom and democracy only can give us freedom
Now withdrawal limit is set at  24,000/- per week
Why?
For whose benefit?
Its Our money but we have no freedom to reach it.
As country is under dictatorship.
Army jawans posted videos on social media showing quality of food they get.

Instead of taking action Modi has banned smart phone use by jawans.
Imagine if army jawans guarding Pakistan and China border goes for strike!
Or imagine if they aren't in a position to do the duty anymore?
What will happen?
48 hours yes just 48hrs  is what will be required for Pakistan and China to take over India. He has compromised Indian soldiers and Army HQ for the sake of creating headlines.
Modi is taking this country towards destruction.
He doesn't come to parliament session because he doesn't believe in democracy.
He wants to make digital India, but this idea came in when the RBI could not match the supply and demand ratio of new notes post demonetisation.
That shows his limitations being not highly qualified or proves he is uneducated.
Even a high school boy can understand that India cannot go cashless and its a lie.
Because even USA is not completely cashless.
How can we be?
Our internet speed is not hidden from any one.
37 crore Indians can't afford 2 meals a day we talk of apps and smart phones.
60% Indian poor and live majorly on daily wages or very low income and we talk of Jan Dhan Yojna and insist on opening bank accounts where is the money to keep in accounts?
Modi says congress responsible for the poverty, he doesn't consider the huge population growth post Independence. Every time other Govts came to power they either did demonetisation or blamed Congress.
We take it as poverty is because of Congress, but what are you doing while in power? Instead of doing something for those poor farmers and poor people he is forcing them to become cashless as a result more farmers are committing suicide, and agriculture labour is not getting work.
No work for daily wagers in rural or urban India.
Please don't further weaken democracy by voting for him this elections. Lets do our duty and save our present and future.
I know every one is Indian first.
Jai Hind

Padma Rani