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Bannari Amman Temple Trip - Sep 6, 2011

2011-11-07T00:03:00.003+05:30

This is another one of Coimbatore's hidden treasures. My friend Udhay had know about this place and had been here a couple times and suggested that we should go here. Legend is that this temple is the origin of the present Bannari Amman Temple in Bannari. Situated on the outskirts of the forest, this temple is will tucked in, attracting a few visitors on most of the days. One has to travel around 5 km from the Bannari Checkpost to reach the Selva Vinayakar Temple. Vehicles have be parked there and one has to walk around 2 km to reach the Bannari Amman Temple. If you are lucky, you might see a few deer and an occasional Indian Gaur. Morning time, between 7 and 9 am, will be the apt time to visit here.

Route: Coimbatore-Annur-Puliampatty-Bannari

Odhi Malai and Beddathamman Cave Trip

2011-04-18T12:27:00.002+05:30

Coimbatore never ceases to interest me. Trek, shop, roam, relax, drive - You've got everything here.

The first 5 photos are of Odhi Malai. Out of nowhere a hillock rises on the way to Bhavanisagar Dam. It's around 45 km from Coimbatore. After climbing around 1200 steps you reach a very old Murugan Temple at the summit. And when you go, go in the late afternoon so that you don't miss the glorious sunset at the hilltop.

The next 5 photos are of Beddathamman Cave Temple near Karamadai. This again is around 45 km from Coimbatore towards Mettupalayam. The cave temple here is around 300 years old.

3-State Trip (Wyanad Bike Trip) - Aug 28-30, 2010

2011-04-18T12:17:00.004+05:30

It had been quite a while since I went on a long bike trip, and me and Vinay too had not been together on a bike trip, so finally it happened. Also, I had never done a 3-state trip.

If at all you want to do a bike trip covering 3 states within a 3-day period, want to see historic places, a superb drive, gorgeous landscapes, mix spirituality with nature, feel the hospitality of Tamil Nadu, view the rolling plains and villages of Karnataka, and hilly terrain of Kerala, then this is it.

Day 1 = With an equal mixture of scolding and concern from my parents, we started around 8 a.m. The drive to Karnataka passing through the hills of Aasanur and Thimbam was excellent. And we reached Nanjangud. You have to see in person to see the beauty of this great Shiva temple and the Kapila river. Of course, you can't miss the old world charm of Karnataka towns like Chamrajnagar and Gundelpet. You can also go straight from Chamrajnagar to Gundelpet without touching Nanjangud, thereby saving 30 km, but then don't do that. You will miss Nanjangud. And the same day we reached Wyanad, Kerala, via the Bandipur forests. Don't forget to cross the checkpost at Bandipur before 6 p.m., they won't allow you to cross after 6 p.m. And we stayed the night at Sultan Bathery.

Day 2 = Started with a visit to Edakal Caves. This is a prehistoric site dating back to the neolithic period, nearly 6000 years old. Ancient man lived in these caves and you can see carvings depiciting their gods and animals among other things. The same day we visited the Phantom Rock, Wyanad Museum, Kanthanpara Falls, and Karapuzha Dam. We stayped the night at Meppadi.

Day 3 = Rain, Water, Wet, Drenched - these are the words which can describe day 3. It started to rain from 6 a.m. and was contnuing and we had no other go than to start in rain. It was raining continuously till we reached Ooty, Tamil Nadu, shivering like wet chicken.

Route: TAMIL NADU = Coimbatore-Annur-Bannari-Aasanur-Thimbam. KARNATAKA = Chamrajnagar-Nanjangud-Gundelpet. KERALA = Sultan Bathery-Meppadi-Vaduvanchal. TAMILNADU = Cherampani-Gudalur-Ooty-Kotagiri-Mettupalayam-Coimbatore.

Distance: 600 km/3 days

Expenses: Rs.1600/= per head including petrol, food, and lodging.

Skulls Gang Trip - July 23-24, 2010

2011-04-18T12:07:00.003+05:30

Our friend Kicha was getting married, and he wanted to go for a trip with our gang - what other place to than our favorite Valparai. And so, we started. Our gang proved at Ukkadam that we still haven't matured. We stopped at a sweet shop for sweets and we three ordered mysoorpas for us and Kicha was quiet.

We: "Dei Kicha, what you want?"

Kicha: "No da, you three finish and wait outside."

We: "But why outside da Kicha?"

Kicha: "I've ordered jelebi da. Promise me that you three won't touch that."

Now, we knew. This guy has ordered a jelebi and he didn't want to share it. And this guy is getting married !!! Poor girl. True to our style, he didn't get even a molecule of the jelebi, we three finished that. And to add insult to injury, we made him pay for all of us.

After that straight to Monkey Falls. Luckily for us, it was full of water and pretty tourist girls (sometimes you just have to forget that you are married). With mind and body refreshed, we headed straight for Valparai. As with all trips, we hadn't planned on where to stay. For first-time travelers to Valparai - you don't have to break your head on which good hotel to stay in Valparai - there is only one good hotel there. Naturally, it was full and we were wondering what to do. Just then, Setty and Deva suggested that we should stay in "Mansion House." For non-alcoholics, Mansion House is neither a mansion nor a house. It's the name of a brandy :-) Finally, we got a room in a 5-room lodge of which we were the only tenants, and we knew why when we were hunting for bed bugs the whole night.

The next day I woke up at 10 a.m. over the sounds of a heated debate - the debate whether we should take bath or not. Kicha's logic was we would waste time. Deva's and Setty's were that no one knows us in Valparai and why the heck we should look clean. My logic was I have a more developed sense of smell than them. Naturally, my logic was shot down and they won. Finally, we had to stop down at a small stream on the way back to home.

It was great trip. When you are the midst of your friends with whom you grew up, with whom you have shared your secrets, who have helped you selflessly, who are so deeply worried about you - You pray that life should never end. And that's what I did throughout the whole trip.

KK Rocks, Prabhu (Parupu), Robert (Doctor), Anwar (Big 5), Shankar (Tata Shankar), Kicha (Oothal), Senthil (Setty), Deva (Head of Sumbais), Nanda (Thaadi), Manickam (Water), Ram (Driver), Natraj (Kottai), Sathish (Padips), Kathir (Paatai), and to the countless ones I have missed here - Thanks for being my friends. Thanks for all the wonderful times and laughter. I am lucky guys.

Route: Coimbatore-Pollachi-Valparai.

Distance: 250 km (round trip)

Expenses: You really can't calculate money when you are with friends right :-)

Thirunedungulam-Thiruverumbur - May 16, 2010

2010-06-14T19:12:00.003+05:30

Thirunedungulam and Thiruverumbur - These are the lesser known 2 temples in Trichy. Srirangam, Thiruvaanaika, and Malaikotai are the most famous ones in Trichy. Both Thirunedungulam and Thiruverumbur are dedicated to Shiva and are excellent examples of Chola architecture.

Thirunedungulam is around 4 km from BHEL township and Thiruverumbur is on the Tanjore Road. The lingam at Thiruverumbur is tilted towards the right side. Legend says that the lingam tilted so as to enable ants to worship the Lord.

Kottai Kaadu - May 9, 2010

2010-06-14T18:37:00.005+05:30

Out of the blue Prabhu called and told me about this place - Kottai Kaadu.

Legend says that this place was once known as Muttam, a trading post during Pandiya period. The temple here was built more than 1000 years ago, and in fact, money from this temple was used to build the famous Pateeswarar Temple at Perur. Kaanjimanadi, a small stream flows nearby.

For further news on this temple we have to wait for Prabhu to upload his blog at http://rprabhu.blogspot.com

Route = Coimbatore, Thondamuthur, Narasipuram, Kottai Kaadu.

Kodai Family Trip - May 3, 2010

2010-06-14T18:35:00.001+05:30

Carrington-Varagapallam - Nov 7, 2009

2010-06-14T18:13:00.006+05:30

Carrington Prison - I never knew there was a prison here until Thenmurugakani told me. The history goes like this: Long before when the British brought tea to the Nilgiris they had used Chinese as slaves (or plantation workers, to use a more polished term) to work here. The British sensing the fourth basic necessity of humans - Prison, after Food, Clothing, and Shelter built a prison at Carrington around 150 years back to house the criminals (or rebels, again to use a more polished term). Now, only the foundation remains.

Varagapallam is the starting point of a 11-km tunnel to east Avalanchi.

Both these places can be done on a single day. In fact, we started around 6 a.m., had a dip at the stream in Sirukinaru and then proceeded. Lunch to be packed in Manjur as there are hardly any hotels at Kinakorai, the small town near Carrington.

Route: Coimbatore=Karamadai=Mulli=Manjur=Carrington=Kinnakorai

Bridge at Mulli

A cool dip at the stream at Sirukinaru

Anbe Sivam

At Sirukinaru

My own Apple phone

Remnants of Carrington Prison

Antony and me at Varagapallam

At Varagapallam

Over the checkdam at Varagapallam

Checkdam at Varagapallam

Darasuram - Oct 18, 2009

2010-06-14T18:02:00.004+05:30

Darasuram - Where art meets stone. This was my second time to this temple and still it holds me interested as the first time. Dedicated to Lord Iravatheeswarar, this is an outstanding piece of art.

Darasuram - Oct 18, 2009

2010-06-14T17:45:00.004+05:30

Kolaribetta-Upper Bhavani Trek - Sep 26-27, 2009

2009-12-14T18:23:00.004+05:30

This trek was on the same line as Kolaritetta-Avalada Trek except that we did not cross Avalada. On the way back from Kolaribetta, about half way through, we took a detour to reach Upper Bhavani. Again, September proved to be the right month for a trek in this region. The place was so green and we were treated with a light drizzle throughout. And, after a long time, we had good sighting of animals.

This was a 2-day trek. Day 1 was in Avalanchi. There is a forest guest house at Avalanchi where one can stay, but permission is needed from the Forest Department at Nilgiris, which also provides a guide.

Route: Coimbatore=Karamadai=Mulli=Avalanchi=Kolaribetta=Upper Bhavani.

Kolaribetta-Upper Bhavani Trek - Sep 26-27, 2009

2009-12-14T18:20:00.002+05:30

Kolaribetta-Avalada Trek - Sep 13, 2009

2009-11-23T19:10:00.003+05:30

IN LOVING MEMORY OF MY DEAR SHARA....

How is it possible for you Shara, to leave like this. A polite person always, you shouldn’t have left like this, leaving us in shock and despair. Do you remember all the talks we used to have, the books we debated, the movies we enjoyed, the beer we had, the cigarettes we shared. My dear Shara, you shouldn’t have done this to me. And only between us, when we used to go for fishing, with a smiling face when you used to call “Vaanga Vijay, meen pudika polam.” Shara, is it possible for a person to be smiling always, to be happy always, to be helping always, to never get angry, to never speak bad of others, to never have any enemies – Yes Shara, it is possible, and you are a shining example for it.

- What a cruel thing fate is.
- What a coincidence you should be with us in your last trek.
- What a coincidence that the last book you read was "Into Thin Air."
- What an irony that you have always debated the existence of God with me, and now you know the answer before me.

You have left us only physically. And till we meet next, my dear Shara, good bye.

Kolaribetta-Avalada Trek - Sep 13, 2009

2009-11-23T18:53:00.003+05:30

A Beautiful World...

2009-09-07T12:32:00.002+05:30

Some things which make our world seem beautiful:

• Mom's rasam
• A light drizzle in evening
• The smell of soil on a summer's shower
• An Illayaraja song on radio
• A full bladder and an empty road
• Gangai Konda Cholapuram on a full-moon day
• A bottle of beer, a pack of chips, and Dravid's batting
• A Tendulkar century
• A surprise day with your sweetheart

Valparai Bike Trip - May 17, 2009

2009-08-30T18:07:00.003+05:30

Upper Bhavani Trek - May 4, 2009

2009-08-30T17:46:00.003+05:30

Avalanchi Bike Trip - Dec 21-22, 2008

2009-08-30T15:25:00.002+05:30

Droog Trek - Dec 1, 2008

2009-08-30T14:32:00.004+05:30

Kodai Team Trip - Nov 23-24, 2008

2009-08-30T13:59:00.001+05:30

Trichy-Pudukottai Trip, Oct 27-28, 2008

2009-06-07T15:43:00.003+05:30

Kodaikanal Trip - Sep 7-8, 2008

2009-04-15T11:28:00.002+05:30

Athirapally-Valparai Bike Trip – Aug 17-18, 2008

2009-03-01T17:50:00.004+05:30

Robert and I were planning for a bike trip for a very long time and finally it materialized in August, but Robert never knew what was in store for him.

As it had rained a few days back, we thought it would be a good idea to go to Athirapally and Valparai. Robert readily agreed as I had been on the same route a couple of times.

Day 1 was uneventful. Of course, we had a nice time traveling.

Day 2, we left our hotel at 8 a.m. Again, no need to mention how beautiful the forests are in those regions. Robert was really enjoying and he was quite surprised that there were hardly any people there. We took lot of photos on the way and we passed Upper Sholayar Reservoir where we saw a lone security. Just after 2 km after the reservoir, Lakshmi stopped all of a sudden.

“Vijay, what happened?”

“Don’t know, Roby, bike is not moving. Can you check?”

Robert got down and gave a look, “The bike’s rear brake has jammed, but no problem, Vijay. I’ll disconnect the brake and we can manage with the front brake alone. Get me the tool kit please.”

“Eh, tool kit? Sorry, Roby, I don’t have the tool kit.”

“WHAT???” Robert’s eyes became as wide as Lakshmi’s tyres. “Don’t tell me you came all the way here without a tool kit.”

“Sorry, Roby. I forgot to take the tool kit.”

With that, Robert lost all hope of a good trip and reaching Coimbatore that day. More than that, we didn’t see a single vehicle for the last 5 hours. Robert already decided that we will be stranded for hours. It was 1 p.m., cloudy, and starting to get dark.

It really was a critical situation we were in. With no people and vehicles around, we never knew when we can start again. Also, there was no reception on our mobiles. Both mobiles were as silent as a dead man. Finally, we decided that I will walk to the Upper Sholayar Reservoir and see if I can get any spanner and Robert will be waiting near the bike. And so, I left Robert and started walking. The walk was a long one with the forests giving all sorts of scary sounds. Finally, I reached the security.

He made no attempt to hide his suspicion and asked “What are you doing here?”

“Sir, our bike’s brake got jammed and I need a tool kit. Can you help me?”

“Tool kit? And here? Sorry, this is a reservoir, not a hardware shop.”

“But sir, there must be at least a spanner or something in the engine room.”

“May be or may not be, but you cannot go to the reservoir, entry is restricted. Moreover, the engine room is 4 km uphill and there is no one there. You can’t go alone all the way there.”

“Please sir. Help us. Let me try my luck. Otherwise, we will be stranded the whole night here. And my friend is alone waiting near the bike. Please.”

“Okay, you can go up. Here, take this umbrella. It might rain. It will take you 1 hour walk uphill to the engine room. And be careful, there might be elephants standing on the way. If you see any, run all the way down here.”

“Sure sir, thanks for the alert,” I said scarily.

“Take this,” saying he gave me a long stick which was taller than me.

“What’s this for?” I asked.

“Well, there might be bears on the trees. If any bear tries to harm you, use this stick you chase it away.”

“WHAT??? You mean the animal which is black, hairy, and has strong claws?”

“Yes, and you start right away before it begins to rain and I change my mind.”

And so, with no other option, I started going up. The way was littered with fresh elephant dung. I was obviously not very comfortable going up, but with Robert waiting all alone, I had no other option than to go and fetch the tools if any. But I was badly missing my camera. The view from up there was simply amazing. I could see an elephant herd playing on the banks of the reservoir. I could see a butterfly with a brilliant colour and design. I could see a new flower. Everything so fresh and pure. Finally I reached a point where the route took a fork. I was standing there wondering which way to take. Just then, Lady Luck smiled on me. There came a car with the Kerala State Electricity Board logo with 4 men in it.

“This is government property. What are you doing here?”

I explained to them the situation.

“Are you crazy to come all the way alone here? There are leopards in this area. And you are telling your friend is also alone. Please get down before it gets dark.”

Again, I explained to them our situation and told that if they are not helping, then we have no other go than to spend the night there and become dinner for the leopards. Also, I asked them to check their car for any tools. And voila, they had a whole box of spanners. Even they were surprised that they had it. Finally, I hitched a ride with them to our bike and their spanner fit perfectly to dismantle the brake. And at last, after 3 hours, we were ready again. We thanked them and drove all the way back to the security and thanked him too and started off again. The rest of the journey was fairly uneventful except for the every-5th-minute cursing by Robert for my plan to get him along without a tool kit for the bike.

Distance: Approx 400 km

Route: Coimbatore=Palghat=Chalakudy=Athirapally=Sholayar=Valparai=Pollachi=Coimbatore.

Expenses: Rs.650/= per head including food, staying, and petrol for 2 days.

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Athirapally-Valparai Bike Trip – Aug 17-18, 2008

2009-03-01T17:45:00.002+05:30

Thirumoorthy Hills Family Trip - May 23, 2008

2009-02-15T16:51:00.004+05:30

Valparai Bike Trip – May 18, 2008

2009-01-04T16:19:00.003+05:30

More than me, my friend Anwar will never forget this trip. One of my colleagues was getting married on the above date in Valparai. With May 18th being a Sunday, what else one needs to go to Valparai. Till 17th night, I was the only person planning to go. At first, I thought I will go alone, but then thought will try my luck with Anwar. I gave an SMS to Anwar at 3 o’clock in the morning and owing to his bad luck or my good luck, he responded. It took a lot of coaxing to make him agree to come, and finally we left Coimbatore by 5:30 in the morning.

Poonjolai, Chinna Kallar Falls, Nirar Dam – These are places that I have heard but never been in Valparai, and going by bike is the best way.

Clean air, lush green tea estates, glorious landscapes, crystal clear water, least-explored places, and unforgettable moments – These are memories that you will come back with.

Route: Coimbatore=Pollachi=Azhiyar=Valparai=Nirar Dam=Chinna Kallar Falls.

Distance: 300 km (to and fro).

Expenses: Rs. 250/= per head (including fuel and food).

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Vellai Vinayagar (White Ganesh) temple in Valparai

Three beauties

Two beauties

Lush Green

Me at Poonjolai

Me, Myself, and Lakshmi

Anwar at Gajamudi Tunnel

Me at Nirar Dam

Valparai Bike Trip – May 18, 2008

2009-01-04T15:51:00.003+05:30

Nirar Dam

Nirar Dam

Me at Nirar Dam

Anwar at Chinna Kallar Falls

Me at Chinna Kallar Falls

Me at Chinna Kallar Falls

Me at Chinna Kallar Falls

Lakshmi

On the way back

Lush Green, Again

Rangaswamy Peak Trek – Apr 26, 2008

2008-12-30T18:13:00.003+05:30

Rangaswamy Peak is at a height of 5855 ft and is visible from the Kodanad View Point in Kothagiri. Legend has it that Lord Rangaswamy who lived in Karamadai, between Mettupalayam and Coimbatore, quarreled with his wife and came to live here alone. It is the most sacred peak in the Nilgiris, sacred to the Irulas, Badugas, and Kurumbas. The devotees come here mainly during the summer months, so if you want to trek alone and avoid intense heat, avoid May.

One has to take the road which goes to Kodanad View Point and take a detour halfway. You can find steps for most of way up to the temple at the top of peak and for a small portion of the trek you have to go through tea estates. It is an ideal place for a 1-day trek from Coimbatore.

There is also a small museum in Kothagiri which is housed in the bungalow of the first collector of Nilgiris, John Sullivan.

Distance: 200 km (to and fro)

Route: Coimbatore=Mettupalayam=Kothagiri=Kodanad View Point Road=Rangaswamy Peak

Expenses: Rs.450/= per head

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Thirumoorthy Hills Trip – Mar 30, 2008

2008-12-28T16:37:00.003+05:30

Afraid that I might land up in hell due to my numerous sins, my mom was insistent that we should see Murugan to get salvation. Mom was sure that Chitragupta was working overtime for me. I too thought it’s a good idea to on a trip with my side of the family as only a week before I had gone on a trip with my wife’s side of the family (Eh!!! What all one has to do to balance everything, though as long as it is a trip I don’t mind joining any family).

After visiting the famous abode of Lord Murugan in Palani, as we had packed our lunch too, we thought we would go to Thirumoorthy Hills, which is around 25 km from Palani.

Thirumoorthy Hills form a part of the Anamalai range of the Western Ghats. It consists of 3 places of interest – Thirumoorthy Temple, Panjalinga Falls, and Thirumoorthy Dam.

Legend says that a few thousand years ago, sage Athari Maharishi along with his wife Anushiya Devi lived here. Moved by their prayer, Lord Shiva along with Brahma and Vishnu (3 moorthis or Thirumoorthy) came in disguise to test their devotion. Overwhelmed by their appearance the couple offered them their tribute. The 3 moorthis refused to accept their offerings as such and demanded that Anushiya Devi should make the offering in nudity. She accepted their demand, and with the power of her devotion, she changed the 3 moorthis into babies and fed them. On seeing the devotion of Anushiya Devi, the 3 moorthis blessed the couple and so the place gets its name. There is an old temple here on the foothill.

One has to climb around 2-3 km to reach the Panjalinga Falls, but it’s worth the climb as the water there is fabulous, but only during the winter and rainy months the falls will be in full force.

Thirumoorthy Dam is a nice place for a one-day outing from Coimbatore. It has boating, a nice place to have your lunch (of course, you should pack your lunch as there are no good hotels out there), and the drive there is ultimate. From Coimbatore, you can either go to Udumalpet and go from there or take my favorite, the more interior and scenic route that goes through the villages. The drive is simply great with the whole route surrounded by sunflower gardens, coconut groves, and paddy fields.

Distance: 160 km (to and fro)

Route: Coimbatore = Pollachi = Poolanginar = Thali = Thirumoorthy Hills.

Expenses: Again, depends on the size and appetite of the family you take :-)

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Vellore Trip - Mar 23, 2008

2008-12-26T17:51:00.002+05:30

Temples of Tamil Nadu have never ceased to impress me and so does the Jalakandeshwarar Temple in Vellore. Situated inside the Vellore Fort, this is one of the finest pieces of Dravidian architecture in this temple of Shiva. Words fail when I try to bring out the beauty of this temple, hence I am putting up pictures.

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Vellore Trip - Mar 23, 2008

2008-12-26T17:20:00.003+05:30

Count Your Animals Before They Catch You - Wildlife Census - Mar 1-2, 2008

2008-12-08T17:22:00.000+05:30

The Tamil Nadu Forest Department came out with an advertisement calling for volunteers for the Wildlife Census 2008. Naturally, we grabbed it and sent our name and finally we were told that the census would happen on Mar 1 and 2. We were told to attend an orientation session in the Forest College campus on Feb 28 afternoon. The orientation contained of a series of slides on how to count (block, direct sight, pug mark, etc.), safety measures, etc. We were told that there will be tigers, elephants, wild gaur, etc., in the areas we will be going and we have to run away at the first sense of danger, but with none of us planning to take bath in the 2days we will be in the forests, we were thinking who will be a danger to whom, but all that later on.

The whole group of volunteers was divided into small groups and was given respective blocks to cover to. We were lucky in that we were all put in the same group. We were given the blocks Odanthurai 7 and 8. I should say we were quite lucky in that Odanthurai 7 and 8 are in plains and very fertile. The adjacent block Odanthurai 6 is bone dry and we heard later on that the group which went there refused to move on unless they were given water, which had run out in the first few hours of the census. Coming back, each group was assigned a forest guard and our guard turned out to be Mr. Pandi. At first Mr. Pandi seemed a tough guy and strict and he would influence our group in a negative way, but it turned out Mr. Pandi was already under the influence of a much more interesting stuff - alcohol. Anyway, Mr. Pandi turned out to be a very jolly person indeed.

Odanthurai is around 50 km from Coimbatore and we left on our own vehicles. We spent the night in the Forest Department campus in Mettupalayam and the next morning we left to Odanthurai. We parked our vehicles in a farm house at the edge of the forest and began our census from there.

We were greeted with some glorious landscapes and lush green farms at the start of the walk and soon it turned to joy when we found a small stream (we were supposed to have lunch near the stream and also our night stay was adjacent to the stream). There, we had to break our vow to not take bath for 2 days; what a refreshing bath we had. After a nice bath and a lunch of chicken meals, we started with our census. It's unbelievable that there are such dense, virgin forests just 50 km from Coimbatore. Also we had a chance to view a live "machan," so often described in Kenneth Anderson's and Jim Corbett's novels. Unlike in the novels, here, in Odanthurai, machans are used for purely sighting elephants which might venture into the farmlands.

Accompanied by a tribal and our guard, we ventured deep into the jungle. On the way we spotted some monkeys and deer. Mr. Pandi told there is a salt lick and by luck we might see some animals there, and so we progressed there, but unfortunately we couldn't see any animals there and we had to lick our wounds near the salt lick. The tribal suggested we should take a detour and see, and voila, we spotted the footprint of a wild gaur. We were all excited when the tribal told that there might be one nearby and to move fast. We were walking in an Indian file with the tribal in front and our guard in the back and stop, right in front of us was a wild gaur. Our tribal gave a shriek and both us and wild gaur disintegrated. Our whole group, which till now was somehow intact solely due to the promise of the 2 bottles later in the night, vanished in nanoseconds. But because no one knew the route back to our base and the 2 bottles waiting for us, we had to reluctantly regroup.

After that, we started our way back to our base and the tribal suggested we sit vigil near the stream as animals will come during evening to have their drink. With the company of mosquitoes and the thought of the 2 bottles lingering on our minds, we sat vigil there silently. Oh yes!!!, after about 15 mins a deer and her fawn came to drink. And that was not the end of it, after that came a wild gaur and after that a herd of elephants.

Our night stay was in a small house near the stream. About 40 acres of the forest land have been cleared for banana plantation. We stayed in the house of a tribal farmer. The next morning was fairly nondescript except for the refreshing bath again. We started around early afternoon and reached Mettupalayam by around 2 p.m. After submitting our census report to the forest office and filling out some forms, we started our way back to Coimbatore with fond memories and waiting for the next census.

Count Your Animals Before They Catch You - Wildlife Census - Mar 1-2, 2008

2008-12-08T17:14:00.001+05:30

Nelliampathy-Athirapally Trip, Feb 16-17, 2008

2008-07-13T15:22:00.000+05:30

We were planning to go on a car trip for a long time after I brought Mahalakshmi (my car), and finally we got the chance on Feb 16 and 17. We planned to go to Nelliampathy and Athirapally. The night we stayed on one of our friend’s house.

Two interesting things happened. One: My friend was fined because he was driving his new car without his seat belt, and I was left off because I was driving my old car without my seat belt; some of the few benefits of owning an old car – it is not mandatory to drive with seat belts for cars manufactured before 2000. Secondly, the trip went well till day 2 when returning Mahalakshmi showed her true colour; she stopped and wouldn’t start. After pushing her for nearly 1 km and the third time, she finally stopped. And voila, right in front of us was a Maruti service station. After parting with Rs.1500/= we arrived home 2 hours late.

Route: Coimbatore = KK Savady = Kozhinchamparai = Nemara = Nelliampathy = Trichur = Chalakudy = Athirapally.

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Munnar Team Trip - Jan 27-28, 2008

2008-07-13T12:07:00.000+05:30

Munnar Team Trip - Jan 27-28, 2008

2008-07-13T12:04:00.000+05:30

Western Catchment - Bangitapal Trek - Jan 20-21, 2008

2008-04-28T19:16:00.001+05:30

After 3 trips in car in the Western Catchment – Bangitapal region, I decided that it is high time that I go on a trek there. Just then, Lady Trek smiled on me. The Tamil Nadu Forest Department came out with an advertisement that they are conducting a trek in that region on Jan 20-21, 2008. My trek gang at office decided that we should also join. As it was only a 2-day trek and the department told that it will be 27 km overall (10 km on day 1 and 17 km on day 2), we thought it will be child’s play, but reality struck us only later.

We booked a van and left Coimbatore on the morning of Jan 20 and reached the forest office in Ooty around afternoon. The forest ranger there turned out to be a nice and informative person to such extent that he overestimated us. As per the actual plan we were supposed to trek 10 km on day 1 and spend the night at a trekking shed midway and 17 km on day 2.

“A landslide happened near the trekking shed a few days back, hence bringing provisions will be problem,” he said.

“Can you people do the whole trek at a single stretch?” “Why not,” we heard ourselves telling – Lady Trek was smiling big now.

“You will have to do a bit of night trekking in moonlight.” “We are ready,” we heard ourselves shouting – Lady Trek was grinning wide now.

“The trek might go late into night.” “Come on, let’s get on with the trek. We are veterans boss, don’t insult us,” we heard ourselves yelling – Lady Trek was chuckling loud now.

The thought of moonlight trekking and the fear that he would cancel the trek if we told “no” made us readily agree. What he didn’t tell was the trek will start at 3 p.m. and will end at 1:30 a.m. the next day and in the process expose us to cold, very cold, and very very cold weather. Walking over 150-feet high dams on a 2-feet wide wall with nothing to hold on was surely not on our minds when we started.

Itinerary: Western Catchment gate = Western Catchment 3 = Western Catchment 2 = Western Catchment 1 (night stay) = Bangitapal = Upper Bhavani = Ooty.

The first shock came when we were asked to cross 150-feet high dam on a wall only 2-feet wide. The second shock followed 45 minutes later when we were asked to cross a second dam with the same specifications. By that time dusk had fallen. Moonlight trekking was fun for the first 1 hour, after that the chill started, but I should say that though the dam crossing and moonlight trekking came as a surprise, we thoroughly enjoyed both. It was an exciting and different experience altogether.

We were supposed to stay at the trekking shed at Western Catchment 1, but due to the landslide, we had to change to the trekking shed at Bangitapal, where hot chapattis and rice welcomed us at 1:30 a.m. Built in 1930, this trekking shed was like heaven to us after our 27-km walk.

The next day we went to the Earthern Dam and Upper Bhavani Dam and returned by afternoon to Ooty. All in all it was a great trek with lot of surprises, which we enjoyed thoroughly.

Expenses: Trekking charge - Rs.50/= per person including food. Rs.25/= extra for camera.
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Western Catchment - Bangitapal Trek - Jan 20-21, 2008

2008-04-28T19:03:00.000+05:30

Trichy/Tanjore/Tranquebar Trip - Dec 9-10, 2007

2008-03-16T15:48:00.000+05:30

It had been a long time since I went to my dad's village, and this, coupled with the loss of my bachelorhood, turned into a family trip to Trichy, Tanjore, and Tranquebar. We started off to Trichy first, nothing of note there except we went to my wife's grandparents' house. The same day we left to Tanjore and on the way we stopped at Brahadeeshwarar Temple.

I had been to Brahadeeshwarar Temple many times, and each and every time I visit it, it gives me something to cherish and remember. Every day of the year, thousands of people come here to witness this timeless experience called the Brahadeeshwarar Temple. It is one of the finest examples of what human endeavor and skill can achieve. Built around the 10th century AD, it is one of UNESCO's World Heritage Sites. It would take you at least one full day to see every part of the temple. The temple is unbelievably huge and beautiful. Also to not miss is the evening experience where you get to see the temple and the gopuram lit. Watching the Brahadeeshwarar Temple in moonlight is an even more awe-inspiring sight.

We spent the night at my uncle's place in Kuttalam. The next day, on the way to Thirumanancheri temple, by luck we sighted an old Chola temple in Kuttalam. Called Uktha Vedeswarar temple, as with most Chola temples, this is in bad shape and hardly visited. Though architecturally beautiful, this temple hardly gets any of the crowd compared to the one at Thirumanancheri. Legend says that Shiva and Parvathi got engaged here first before getting married at Thirumanancheri. Next, we went to Thirumanancheri where Shiva and Parvathi are worshipped as Kalyanasundareswarar and Kokilaambal. Legend says that in accordance with the verdict of Shiva, Parvathi recedes to an earthly life and amidst her wandering reaches a place called Komal, where Lord Vishnu assumes a form of a cowherd to take care of his sister. He releases her from the clutch of the curse in a place called Thiruvaaduthurai, and Parvathi sheds her assumed cow's form and takes her normal form in Kuttalam in the sacrificial fire of Sage Bharata Muni. Shiva and Parvathi then unite in marriage here in Thirumanancheri. After that, we visited the temples at Thiruvidaimarudur and Thirukadaiyur.

I had heard a lot about the old fort at Tranquebar (Tharangambadi in Tamil) and hence, as it is only about 30 km from Thirukadaiyur, we decided we would go there; Tharangambadi in Tamil means "place of singing waves." Called Dansborg in Danish, the fort here was built in the year 1620 AD. It is the site of the first Protestant settlement in India in 1706 AD. Tranquebar was a busy Danish port until a railway line was opened in Nagapattinam, the district capital. The old fort is now turned into a museum.

Route: Coimbatore=Trichy=Tanjore=Kuttalam=Thiruvidaimarudur=Thirukadaiyur=Tranquebar

Distance: 700 km for one round trip

Expenses: Depends on the size and appetite of the family you take :-)
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Brahadeeshwarar Temple

Brahadeeshwarar Temple

Brahadeeshwarar Temple

Brahadeeshwarar Temple

Brahadeeshwarar Temple

Brahadeeshwarar Temple

Kuttalam

Tranquebar

Tranquebar

The "Worst Half and Better Half" at Tranquebar

Ooty Trip - Nov 19-21, 2007

2008-01-06T17:32:00.000+05:30

Upper Bhavani (Bangitapal) Trip - Oct 6, 2007

2007-11-11T17:41:00.000+05:30

Mesmirised by the beauty of Upper Bhavani, Thenmurugakani and me made a trip there again, this time with 3 more of our friends. This time we crossed Upper Bhavani dam and went till Bangitapal dam. Needless to stay, this trip too was as memorable as last one.

Upper Bhavani (Bangitapal) Trip - Oct 6, 2007

2007-11-11T17:36:00.000+05:30

Upper Bhavani Trip - Sep 15, 2007

2007-10-15T03:11:00.000+05:30

For a long time, I have heard that Western Catchment in Ooty is one great place to visit, but I never had a chance to go there. I should say that I was pleasantly surprised when I came to know Thenmurgakani had trekked in those hills more than 100 times (Yes, 100 times). Thenmurgakani is my colleague and my respect for him grows day by day for his knowledge on those hills and nature. A majority of the information I have given here is gleaned from him. Though we could not make it to Western Catchment this time, we made to Upper Bhavani which is also equally good. We booked a Tata Indica and left on Sep 15th morning. You need not touch Ooty to go to Upper Bhavani, you can take a detour at Karamadai and go via Manjur, you will save a lot of time and fuel.

After Kunda but before Mulli, you can see Geddai Powerhouse (2852 above MSL) or Canada Powerhouse II, which has 5 turbines. There is a winch still operating there. Mullum Malarum, a film by Mahendran was shot here, with Rajnikanth being the winch operator in that movie. You can find a memorial there in memory of the 100 people who died in a landslide there in 1993. The surge shaft here is the highest in Kunda project. Kunda is the center point of all the hydel powerstations in Nilgiris. Kunda project was operationalized by Jawaharlal Nehru in 1961.

Before starting the Kunda project, Bhavani Amman temple was built to bring good luck and the project was completed successfully in 1964. Around 2-3 km after the temple, towards the end of the road, you can see a tunnel valve opening which is opened by a motor. From this tunnel, water from Upper Bhavani reservoir flows down to Powerhouse 5 completely through a tunnel constructed underground. Interestingly enough, the entire projected is consctured in a way that water from one powerhouse to another flows entirely underground via a network of tunnels so that evaporation is minimized.

Upper Bhavani is the highest reservoir in the whole project at 7470 feet above MSL with a capacity of 3022 mcft.

I should say this is one of my most memorable trips, the place is so serene and breath taking. The weather on that day was particularly good with a small drizzle throughout. Roads till Manjur are good, after that expect a very bumpy ride. Going in a small vehicle is advisable. You can pack you lunch at Manjur, there are no hotels or shops after that.

I asked Thenmurgakani to recollect some of his thoughts on his various trips here. This is from his own words: "I have come here more than 100 times by trek from 1990 to 1996. Trekked to various places including Bison's swamp, Bhavani Amman temple, Sispara pass, Bangi Thapal, Bangihalla dam, Madippu Malai, Western catchment I, II, and III, Kolaripetta tower, and Weir dam; nearly more than 200 sq km. I have visited these areas in all seasons from January to December. Western Catchment areas receive rainfall of about 1000 mm in a couple of days regularly. Temperatures plummet to subzero in winter forming ice sheets over water surfaces. Kora Kunda is the coldest place in this region where -4 degrees is usual for long periods of time. Such a rainfall is regularly being received only because the ecology is very much guarded in these places. Over the past 17 years, though much degradation of nature has taken place in all other areas of Nilgiris, the natural sholas and forests beyond Upper Bhavani have been preserved without a bit of damage, maintaining the ecosystem intact. The various flora and fauna are still flourishing thanks to the actions of forest and EB officials; however, it remains to be seen how long this can be sustained. Many a scientist from a number of countries still visit the Mukurthi Sanctuary for various biological projects including obtaining the purest water samples available on earth. Though Mukurthi sanctuary in Upper Bhavani area is serene and beautiful and litter-free, other parts of the sanctuary fall woefully short of cleanliness including the Western Catchment II and III areas, the main damagers being the film shooting crew who are insensitive to the fragile nature of the Western Ghats. One cannot even see a single kilometer free of plastic garbage in these areas. Unlesss these excesses are stopped, one could not save the beauty of those hills." Sensible words.

Route: Coimbatore = Karamadai = Velliangadu = Barali = Mulli = Geddai = Annamalai = Kunda = Manjur = Thaisolai = Kora Kunda = Ramaiah road (Powerhouse 5 road) junction = Bhavani Amman temple. From junction: Right = Bhavani Amman temple; Straight = Upper Bhavani dam.

Distance: Around 200 km.

Expenses: Rs. 2000/= for vehicle from Coimbatore plus extra expenses for food, snacks, etc.

You can leave Coimbatore by 7 a.m. and be back by 12 midnight.

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Me at Velliangadu

Velliangadu

Annamalai

Annamalai

Thenmurgakani atop Upper Bhavani Dam

Upper Bhavani Lake from Ramaiah road (Powerhouse 5 road)

Upper Bhavani Lake from Ramaiah road (Powerhouse 5 road)

Upper Bhavani Lake from Ramaiah road (Powerhouse 5 road)

Ramaiah road

Upper Bhavani Lake from Ramaiah road (Powerhouse 5 road)

Upper Bhavani Trip - Sep 15, 2007

2007-10-15T01:25:00.000+05:30

Bhavani Amman Temple

Bhavani Amman Temple

Nandi at Bhavani Amman Temple

Ramaiah Road (Powerhouse 5 Road)

Ramaiah Road (Powerhouse 5 Road)

Ramaiah Road (Powerhouse 5 Road)

Ramaiah Road (Powerhouse 5 Road)

Ramaiah Road (Powerhouse 5 Road)

Sambhar

Ramaiah Road (Powerhouse 5 Road)

Thekkady Team Trip - Sep 8-9, 2007

2007-10-10T06:55:00.000+05:30

August 15th trip - Aug 15, 2007

2007-08-20T05:47:00.000+05:30

It had been quite a long time since my college friends and I had gone on a trip. The one we had on Aug 15, 1997, to Kallar when we were in college is still fresh in my mind. Also, Deva had bought a new car and that was another reason to go on a trip. We decided that we will group on Aug 15th and have an outing. Finally, Deva, Senthil, Natraj, Nanda, and me drove to Aasanur which is on the way to Mysore.

I Go Digital !!!

2007-08-18T03:58:00.000+05:30

At last, I decided that it is time that I go digital, the primary reason being I had to return the film camera which I had borrowed from my uncle :-) These are some of the first few pictures I took. Regular updates of photos will be on my photo blog at http://shuttermania.blogspot.com.
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Team Bike Trip - Mysore - August 4-6, 2007

2007-08-10T05:33:00.000+05:30

It has been more than 6 months since we went on a bike trip as a team and Lakshmi was all geared up for it. We decided that we would go to Mysore via the Sathyamangalam forests as most of them hadn’t been there and route is very good. After some last-minute cancellations and new additions, we finally were 11 guys and 6 bikes.

We started on August 4th morning straight from office. Before that we searched in net and booked rooms in Hotel Calinga. The hotel turned out to be hi-tech only for the fact that it was mentioned in the net; we got a shock when we saw the hotel and the locality. The route from Bannari to Nanjangud is good with rolling hills and lush green forests. Breakfast can be had at Puliampatti, which is around 1-1/2 hours drive from Coimbatore.

Nanjangud is the seat of a beautiful and ancient Shiva temple where Lord Nanjundeshwarar resides. It is situated on the banks of the river Kapila. Legend says that Lord Nanjundeshwarar got his name when he drank the poison that emanated when the demons and Gods churned the ocean in search of nectar. The saffron- and white-coloured gopuram is huge and beautifully made. Lunch can be had at Nanjangud. There are no good hotels near the temple, you have to travel around 3 km to a hotel called Ramprakash which is on Mysore-Gundalpet road for good food.

By the time we left Nanjangud, it started drizzling and developed into a heavy rain by the time we reached Mysore. As we reached only by late evening, we thought we will just roam around the city, and the guys’ eyes popped out when they saw the girls in Mysore. I, once again, had a tough time behaving maturely. Dinner can be had at Hotel RRR which is in Gandhi Square, it provides excellent veg and non-veg food.

The next day we left to St. Philomena Church. Built from 1933-1941 and in neo-Gothic style, this church looms 165 feet into the air with its twin spires. Next, we went to Mysore zoo, it is the only zoo in India which exhibits gorilla. After that, we went to the Mysore Palace. Completed in 1912, this palace was designed by the architect Henry Irwin. It is built in Indo-Saracenic style and blends together Hindu, Muslim, Gothic and Rajput styles of architecture.

By the time we left to Coimbatore around 4 o’clock in the evening, Andrew’s bike started giving some funny noises and by the time we reached Chamarajanagar, the sound became louder than that of a lorry. It turned out that the silencer connection had broken down and hence three of us had to stay that night in Chamarajanagar as it was a Sunday no workshops were open. The stay turned out to be good as the next day we had a chance to see Chamarajeshwara Temple. Built in 19th century, this temple is very silent and constructed beautifully. By the time we finished our tour of the temple, the bike had been repaired and we started. The return journey was uneventful with a brief stopover at Bhavanisagar dam.

Route: Coimbatore=Bannari=Dhimbam=Aasanur=Chamarajanagar=Nanjangud=Mysore.

Expenses: (For 3 days) Rs.750/= per head including food, stay, entrance tickets, and fuel.

Road to Bhavanisagar

Bhavanisagar Dam

Bhavanisagar Dam

Road to Dhimbam

Road to Dhimbam

Nanjundeshwarar Temple, Nanjangud

Nanjundeshwarar Temple, Nanjangud

St. Philomena Church, Mysore

Mysore Palace

Mysore Palace

Team Bike Trip - Mysore - August 4-6, 2007

2007-08-10T05:16:00.000+05:30

Chamarajeshwara Temple, Chamarajanagar

Chamarajeshwara Temple, Chamarajanagar

Chamarajeshwara Temple, Chamarajanagar

The Way Back

The Way Back

The Way Back

The Way Back

The Way Back, near Aasanur

The Way Back, near Aasanur

Kollegal Road, near Aasanur

Valparai-Athirapally Trip - July 8, 2007

2007-07-13T06:06:00.000+05:30

Mudumalai Trip - June 16-17, 2007

2007-07-02T02:59:00.000+05:30

Thadiyandamol Trek II – Apr 27-28, 2007

2007-05-29T07:28:00.000+05:30

It had been more than 1-1/2 months since I went on a trip, and so naturally I was desperate for one. It happened so that the Monkey Squad (Andrew, Rohan, and Shreelesh) was also planning for one, and so we thought it would be a good idea to go on a trek together.

A little info on the Monkey Squad first. Monkey Squad and I worked in the same team in Bangalore, and those 3 guys lived up to their squad name. These guys are easy going, bright, a good company to move around with, extremely funny, and very good at their work. I really had a very good time the 6 months I worked with them. Now, all three have gone up their career ladder and are doing well.

Coming back to the trip, after numerous discussions on the time and place, we finally zeroed in on Thadiyandamol. I had been to that place already a year back, but who would want to miss the beauty of Thadiyandamol. Thadiyandamol is the highest peak in Coorg at an altitude of 6870 feet. And with the company of Monkey Squad, I knew it was going to be one great trip. In fact, the trip turned out to be so great that we visited one place that we never intended to go – a hospital, but that happened later on.

As per the plan we met in Mysore on Apr 26, with me coming from Coimbatore and Monkey Squad from Bangalore. After a very bumpy and dusty ride (the bus driver was unpredictable, on good roads he was slow and on bad roads he was fast), we reached Madikere, the capital of Coorg, in the evening. The squad had come well prepared, Shreelesh with his high-funda SLR and Andy and Rohan with vodka.

We went to a place called Raja’s Seat on the same day itself. It has beautiful viewpoint a nice little garden. While returning, luckily we found that we can hire bikes for a day or two (it costs Rs.300/= per day), and so we decided to hire bikes to reach Thadiyandamol and for sight seeing.

Thadiyandamol is around 34 km from Madikere. Roads are pretty good till the foothills. Route: Madikere = Bettagiri = Napoklu = Kakkabe = Nalaknad = Thadiyandamol. You have park your vehicle if you go in a 4-wheeler at Nalaknad (there is also a palace at Nalaknad which is open till evening). If you go in a 2-wheeler you can drive another 1.5 km uphill till the road ends. From there you have to walk around 7 km to reach the peak.

It takes around 2-3 hours to cover the entire distance to the peak. Luckily for us, we were the only group that day. The weather too was cool and nice. It was the first trek for Monkey Squad but it never seemed like it. They enjoyed it thoroughly. We had brought ready-to-it meals with us and had a late lunch on our way back. After a very tiring day, we crashed to our beds and had a good sleep.

The next day, Shreelesh showed his true colours, i.e., he showed his murderous instincts. In fact, he took me to a place I have never visited during all my trips – a hospital. Ha ha, jokes apart, it was just an accident. The road took a turn, but we didn’t take a turn, and we fell. Luckily for us, we had only lacerations to our arms and legs, but for no reason Shreelesh kissed the road and got a wound on his lips. After dressing our wounds, we left to Kaveri Nisargadhama (a small island formed by the river Kaveri). Our trip ended with a visit to Kushalnagar, where the famous Golden Temple is situated.

All in all, it was a great trip and I had a great time with the guys. I am sure this is the first of the many trips to come.

Route: Coimbatore = Mysore = Coorg (Madikere).

Cost: Rs.1400/= per head including food, accommodation, and travel.
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Thadiyandamol Trek II – Apr 27-28, 2007

2007-05-29T07:22:00.000+05:30

Team Trip - Munnar - Feb 18-19, 2007

2007-03-03T12:36:00.000+05:30

It was more than 6 months since we went on a trip as a team, and so we thought it is high time that we go. After numerous admissions and cancellations, we came down to 15 people. Before that we got a shock that Top Slip (where we had planned) was closed, and so we had to change our plans and decided on Munnar, a decision which we never regretted. Because it was a team trip, I had to behave very mature, which was most difficult.

We left on 18th morning by van. The onward journey was fairly uneventful except for the sighting of an elephant. There is a small waterfall around 25 km before Munnar called Vaguvaarai. We stopped there for a bath and lunch, where our team created the record of highest-ever bill. There is a place called Rajamalai some 15 km before Munnar, which is famous for lush green landscapes and Nilgiri Thar, but it was closed as it was the breeding season.

We reached Munnar by evening. Lodging was at a place called Munnar Dream Palace, though only the name resembled a palace, but it was pretty decent and clean. After that we left to Blossom Park (Hydel Park) which is around 3 km from the city and spent an hour there. By that time, it was late evening and we left to our hotel.

If you planning for Tamil Nadu style food, then Hotel Saravana Bhavan is the place to eat. After having breakfast the following morning, we started our sightseeing. Below is the list of some of the places to visit.

Matupatty Direction, with distance from Munnar town

1. Photo point - 3 km
2. Matupatty dam - 11 km (Boating)
3. Indo-Swiss project - 13 km
4. Echo point - 18 km
5. Shooting point - 14
6. Kundala lake - 25 km (Boating)
7. Top Station viewpoint - 33 km

All the above places can be easily covered in 1 day. Boating can be done both in Matupatty dam (2- and 4-seat power boat and family boat) and Kundala lake (pedal and row boat).

The final visit was to a place called Top Station, which is the border of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. It has a great view of the valley. You have to trek around 400 meters to get the full view, but it is pretty safe.

Language won't be a problem as people speak both Tamil and Malayalam. Make sure you take a good camera with you as there are a lot of places to be captured. September to May is the season in Munnar, but the post-monsoon season beginning October is the best. Accommodation is very costly in Munnar, and so going a little before or a little after season time is advisable. A lot of good, budget accommodation is also available with dormitory-style accommodations too. A good number resorts are also available on the outskirts, but all are pretty costly. Make sure that you book the rooms in advance as there is always a good flow of tourists year round.

Route: Coimbatore = Pollachi = Udumalpet = Munnar

Expenses: Rs. 850/= per head including travel, food, and staying.

The Team at Top Station

Misty Munnar

Misty Munnar

Misty Munnar

Misty Munnar

Team Trip - Munnar - Feb 18-19, 2007

2007-03-03T12:24:00.000+05:30

Echo Point - We Love Vijay???!!!

Matupatty Dam

Woods on Kundala Lake

Woods on Kundala Lake

Mystic Landscapes

Kundala lake

Kundala lake, different angle

Coming for a ride???

Wooden-headed Evil!!!

Logs on Kundala lake

Paraman Kadavu Trek - Feb 5-6, 2007

2007-03-03T11:47:00.000+05:30

After numerous cancellations and re-planning, this trek finally took shape on Feb 5-6, 2007. Ramanan had enticed us saying that we will be getting fish, tapioca, and chicken all prepared by the tribal people, and who knows we might even get country arrack freshly and specially prepared for us. We were all in cloud 9. We were even imagining a tribal dance. But all the shocks came later on. But we were too tired to feel disappointed at the end of it all.

We decided that we will leave to Valparai on bikes and from there trek to Paraman Kadavu. We left by 4 bikes (totally 8 of us) on Monday morning. The trip till Valparai was uneventful except for the sighting of a Nilgiri Thar (an endangered species native to this part of Western Ghats) at the 9th bend.

The plan was to reach Valparai by afternoon, have lunch, and then start trekking. We reached Valparai by lunch, bought provisions, had food, and then left to one Mr. Udayan's house. He is a factory officer in a tea factory there and he had arranged for a couple of tribals to guide us.

We started the trek around 3 p.m. We started from a place called Nallamudi. You had walk through a tea estate for about 1/2 km and then enter the forests. It was quite sunny that day and we were all baking inside our shirts. You have to cross a settlement called Sankaran Kudil which is half way between Paraman Kadavu (or Paraman Kudil) and Nallamudi, with Paraman Kadavu being downhill by the side of a river in Tamil Nadu - Kerala border. Sankaran Kudil is a settlement of around 50 families. Nothing of interest in Sankaran Kudil except a couple of hungry dogs which were looking at us dangerously. Luckily, for the dogs, nothing happened.

The trek was pretty exciting with glorious landscapes, thick forests, and dense growth of bamboo shoots. It takes around 3 hours to reach Paraman Kadavu. The tribals make it in about 1-1/2 hours. Some travel daily.

Paraman Kadavu is the last of the 3 settlements, the others being Sankaran Kudil and Kaadan Kudil. It has around 25 families, with the only source of income being agriculture consisting of cardamom, honey, tapioca, and paddy. People basically speak Tamil there, but it is quite different from the cities. They worship Murugan and their main function is Pongal.

We reached Paraman Kadavu around 6 p.m. tired and dirty, but we were excited as the tribal dance was lingering on our minds. In fact, we had already planned our moves. All those excitement turned to shock as we got nothing of the sort of reception we expected. We were seen as rude intruders into their village and none expect the village head came to see us. After some bargaining between him and our guides, and with us parting with some of our provisions, they agreed to accommodate us and also give some tapioca. By then, we knew that our tribal dance is never going to materialize.

They had arranged for us to stay in the solitary classroom there. After leaving our bags there, we left to the river which is around 1/2 km away. Oh God! What a time we had there. The water was cool and refreshing and we were there in the water for about an hour.

After that we returned to our classroom, and the cooks whom we were promised to us never turned up, and so we had to cook ourselves. But it turned out to be lot of fun at the end of it all. Finally, we had to suffice with chicken and tapioca. After a heavy dinner, one of the locals told we might spot animals near the river in the night. We armed ourselves with our jackets and torches and went to the river and sat for nearly an hour, but we saw nothing except mosquitoes.

The night went off peacefully and we left the next morning around 10 a.m. Before that we had a short tour of the settlement and also a visit to one of the tribals' house and the Murugan temple.

The way back was uneventful till Sankaran Kudil from where we had to take a detour through a different route, which turned out to be even more adventurous than the previous one, and we reached Valparai sweating and panting by 3 p.m.

All in all the trek was great and we thoroughly enjoyed it.

Route: Coimbatore = Pollachi = Valparai = Nallamudi = Sankaran Kudil = Paraman Kadavu.

Expenses: Rs. 500/= per head including traveling, food, and guide expenses.

Inside Bamboo Territory

Bamboo Territory again

Long way down

Take soon, she is going to hit me

Me - Resting in Peace

Trek in Wood

Road to Valparai

Famous Five - The Bikes, of course

You get in, We hit you

3-legged journey

Paraman Kadavu Trek - Feb 5-6, 2007

2007-03-03T11:35:00.000+05:30

Trek in Line

Finally, I take bath after 1 year

River at TN-Kerala border

Lion-tailed Monkey - My future Mother-in-Law, ha ha!!

Mystic Landscapes

That was Life (Or This is Life??)

2007-03-03T11:29:00.000+05:30

Picked up this nice article by Nirmal Shekar from Frontline without his permission.

That night... June 25, 1983

John McEnroe was running into trouble with Wimbledon officials for verbal abuse, the U.S. Dollar was quoting at Rs. 10.12 and the British Pound was Rs. 15.15, Ronald Reagan was writing to Indira Gandhi about "security concerns,'' the only Tendulkar who was part of popular culture was Priya - the late TV actress - and Munuswamy, a rickshaw puller who couldn't tell Kapil Dev from McEnroe, was dancing on the Marina beach with a few inebriated young men who were bursting balloons.

You got back small change if you paid Rs. 12 for a bottle of beer, the air fare from Madras to Bangalore was Rs. 201, you didn't need a visa to travel to London, Mandira Bedi was still in primary school, television was still a luxury, and, yes, and the gap-toothed old Munuswamy was dancing with the boys on the beach.

George Bush Sr. had still not got into the Oval Office, Mithun Chakraborthy's `Disco Dancer' and Harrison Ford's `Raiders of the Lost Arc' were running to packed houses in Indian city cinemas, the violence in Punjab was making headlines every day and, yes, and Munuswamy was having a ball with the boys on the Marina.

Oh, forgive me, something's been left out, a tiny little detail of the time, of that day: India won the Prudential World Cup!

Before the readers get ready to kill me, here is a confession: every little detail listed out above is etched in memory simply because of that stupendous victory which turned the cricketing world upside down. It was that kind of day, where-were-you-when-Kennedy-was-shot kind of day, where-were-you-when-the-WTC-towers-came-down kind of day, where-were-you-when-Ali-beat-Foreman kind of day.

Ah, what a wonderful day, and night, that was! June 25, 1983 - few days in the entire history of Indian sport can match that.

The final itself wasn't an epic. But the result was.

Cricket was still untarnished by corruption charges and Paul Condon was still a middle level cop.

If that sort of result were to come up these days in a Cup final, critics would immediately demand a detailed Condon-style investigation.

It was a great triumph for cricket itself on that day. In the larger picture, the Indian success was secondary. It was a triumph of faith, faith in the fact that everything great about the great game would be vindicated on the big stage, a triumph of faith in teamwork, a triumph of the age-old belief that David can always conquer Goliath with self-belief and commitment.

A few of us had gathered in a friend's place, hoping against hope that India would be able to defend a small total. "Get here in time. The match could be over quickly,'' warned the friend.

When a batting line-up reads Greenidge, Haynes, Richards, Lloyd and Gomes, you hardly need to be warned. But, yes, many of us did believe it would be over in quick time and our intention was to `celebrate' India's participation in the final. Yes, participation and not victory.

Such fools we were. But ecstatic fools at the end of the day, pinching each other to check if it was all real, if we had our feet on the ground.

In hindsight, you can see it more clearly, look at it as a situation where anything was possible, understand that in sport there is no such thing as a sure thing.

But when a team with no great record to speak of in the limited overs game goes up against the finest one-day side in history, one that was seeking a hat-trick of Cup victories, there seems an absolute limit to what is possible.

But, then, that's the charm of sport. That's the charm of the great game. It makes way for the unsung to stretch the limits of the possible, it makes room for the midget to put on inches and match the giant.

So, hope sneaked in through the drawing room window when Balwinder Sandhu, enjoying his 15 minutes of fame as an international cricketer, dismissed Greenidge with five on the board. Perhaps the only time the great opener lost his wicket shouldering arms!

Then again, instead of hope, what we got next was destruction. As a connoisseur, this writer moved to seat edge. But almost all my friends turned their gaze away from the TV screen as God with a bat in hand - read that Viv Richards - got down to business.

A superstitious gentleman in the group stood up from the sofa, said that he would bring good luck to the Indians and loitered into the puja room. Surely, there are greater Gods than the ones in cricketing whites! For, as soon as he got back, we saw Kapil take a magnificent running catch off a Richards top-edge at midwicket.

To one half of me, the match ended there. The Emperor had departed. To the other half - as to all my friends - the match had just begun.

So we watched with an open-mouthed wonderment the rest of the events of the evening, my superstitious friend once again visited the puja room as Dujon and Marshall put up resistance after six wickets had gone for seventy-something. Again his faith paid off as Dujon played on.

In quick time `impossible' had switched sides, so to say. Where an Indian victory had looked impossible earlier in the evening, now it was a West Indian triumph that seemed highly unlikely. And when Holding aimed an extravagant pull off Amarnath and was trapped in front it was all over.

My friends blew balloons and burst them because crackers couldn't be found. Driving to the Marina to celebrate, we met quite a few revellers. But those were days when the game was not yet the religion that it is.

Munuswamy, the gap-toothed drunk rickshaw puller, was handed a half empty bottle of beer by a friend and he was all too ready for a `Rajni' (actor Rajnikant) style dance with my friends.

He was told India had won. To this day, I believe that he thought India had won a war. He knew nothing about cricket.

But, it was that kind of day really.

June 25, 1983 was that kind of day.

- Nirmal Shekar

Siththannavaasal, Thiruvaanaikaaval, Srirangam, Kallanai Trip - Jan 20-21, 2007

2007-02-17T05:35:00.000+05:30

“Un pugazh vaiyamum solla,
Siththannavaasalil ulla, siththiram vetkudhu mella uyire.”

(To speak about your beauty to the world, even the paintings in Siththannavaasal feel shy)

After hearing these words from Vaali, I was eager to see Siththannavaasal. If Vaali is comparing the beauty of Sonali Bendre to Siththannavaasal, then there surely must be something special about the place. In fact, to our surprise, the paintings at Siththannavaasal turned out to be more beautiful than Sonali Bendre.

Well, coming back to the point, my colleague and friend Suthersun, who has a similar taste (not on Sonali Bendre though), wanted to see Siththannavaasal. Both of us have read Sivagamiyin Sabatham by Kalki and naturally we were mesmerized by the classic lines of Kalki about Siththannavaasal being on the same lines of Ajantha and Ellora. With Siththannavaasal being accessible through Trichy, we decided that we will visit Thiruvaanaikaaval, Srirangam, and Kallanai (Grand Anicut) also.

Siththannavaasal has a rock-cut Jain temple of the early Pandya period (7th century AD). It consists of a square garbagriha (sanctum sanctorum) and a rectangular mukhamandapa. The rear wall of the garbagriha contains bas-relief figures of Jaina Tirthankaras in Aseena-Mudra (seated) posture. The side walls of the mukhamandapa contain bas-relief figures of Parsvanatha and Jain acharyas. The cave temple is decorated with mural paintings made of vegetable colours. The ceiling has depiction of a lotus tank with realistic figures of men, animals, flowers, birds and fishes. It recalls the Samavasarana faith in Jainism. The facade of the pillars shows a dancing girl, the king and the queen.

Photography of the paintings is strictly prohibited, so only memories remain.

What surprises us is that these paintings have survived for nearly 1300 years. So realistic and colourful the paintings are that one forgets he/she is seeing a 1300-year painting. But the highlight of Siththannavaasal is the sanctum sanctorum itself. The sanctum sanctorum is acoustically designed such that if one takes a deep breath during meditation, the whole sanctum sanctorum vibrates. But if one shouts, claps, or just speaks, nothing happens there, not even a single vibration is felt. The cave is carved out of a single big rock. The rock is so big that it runs around 1.5 km. Siththannavaasal also has around 12 beds carved on the rocks on the top of the hill. These beds were used by the saints to sleep. You have to climb around 250 steps to see the beds.

Siththannavaasal is 15 km from Pudukottai. Pudukottai is 60 km from Trichy and good bus facilities are available to Pudukottai. Staying in Trichy will be apt as it has lot of good hotels.

Day 2 was spent on visiting Thiruvaanaikaaval, Srirangam, and Kallanai. Thiruvaanaikaaval is a Shiva temple dedicated one of the 5 elements, water. The other temples being Kalahasti (air), Kancheepuram (earth), Thiruvannamalai (fire), and Chidambaram (ether). You need at least 5 hours to see the whole temple. It is an excellent piece of Dravidian architecture. Don’t miss out the carvings on the ceilings there.

Next, we visited Srirangam. Srirangam is an island encircled by Kaveri and Kollidam rivers. It is around 2 km from Thiruvaanaikaaval. It has the tallest Rajagopuram in Asia, measuring 236 feet. It is a massive temple covering an area of 156 acres.

Good bus facilities are available to both Thiruvaanaikaaval and Srirangam.

Finally, we visited Kallanai. You have to come back to Trichy (Sattiram bus stand) again to catch a bus to Kallanai. The route to Kallanai is through typical South Indian landscapes. Kaveri on one side and lush green paddy fields on the other sides accompany you all through the journey. Kallanai was built by Karikala Cholan and dates back to the 2nd century AD. It is considered the oldest water-diversion structure in the world still in use, though much of the structure cannot be seen as it is under water.

The northern channel is called the Kollidam; the other preserves the name of Kaveri and empties into the Bay of Bengal at Poompuhar, a few hundred miles south of Chennai. On the seaward face of its delta are the seaports of Nagapattinam and Kaarikal. Cultivation is carried out in this delta for over 2000 years.

Route: Coimbatore = Trichy = Pudukottai = Siththannavaasal = Trichy = Thiruvaanaikaaval = Srirangam = Kallanai = Trichy = Coimbatore.

Cost: Approximately Rs. 750/= per head including food, travelling, and staying.

____________________

Suthersun behind S'vaasal Hill

A local deity in the fields

S'vaasal cave

Palm grove

Dusk at S'vaasal

Thiruvaanaikaaval and Srirangam

2007-02-17T05:08:00.000+05:30

Srirangam

Srirangam

Srirangam

Srirangam

Srirangam

Thiru'kaaval

Thiru'kaaval

Thiru'kaaval

Thiru'kaaval

Thiru'kaaval

Team Bike Trip – Nelliampathy – Jan 7, 2007

2007-01-14T11:53:00.000+05:30

As with all Saturday mornings, my miniscule brain was thinking about where to go for the weekend. Just then, Ganesh (my team guy) told that he is going home to Kerala for the weekend, and my roaming profile went into overdrive. We hatched up a plan to make a trip. A short and sudden meeting with the team guys happened and we decided that we will go on a bike trip to Nelliampathy on Sunday and return on Monday afternoon (before that I had to make them swear that they will return to work on Monday night).

We left on Sunday morning to Vadakancherry where Ganesh told he will meet us and from there we will go to Nelliampathy. Roads are exceptionally good till the foothills of Nelliampathy. The trip was uneventful except for the puncture to Anand’s bike tyre and the stopover in Pothundy Dam. New roads are being laid in hills of Nelliampathy, hence the ride was both adventurous and aching. If you planning a painless ride to Nelliampathy, better go after June 2007, the roads should be complete by then.

There are 2 must-see places in Nelliampathy – Seetharkundu and Mallampara. Seetharkundu is a great viewpoint. Legend says that Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita lived here. With we Hanumans being there, I started to believe the tail, sorry tale. Mallampara is the highest point in Nelliampathy and offers a great view of all the hills.

The best way to see both places is by jeep. You can hire a jeep for Rs. 500/= from Nelliampathy to Mallampara. The jeep accommodates around 8 persons. Beware, the jeep ride is bone-rattling. I bet it can relieve any severe degree of constipation.

We spent there till late evening and had a very chilly and scary ride back to Vadakancherry in the night. Ganesh gave us a scare in-between saying that the hotel guy in Vadakancherry won’t allow us to drink, but scare turned to joy when we saw the hotel guy himself carrying bottles.

The next morning, during breakfast, the guys got a real taste of Kerala. Akathi, Mohan, Andrew, Karthick, and Alex opened their eyes as wide as the plates on their table on seeing the girls coming out of a tuition centre in the same complex. They were already making plans fast for the next trip - same place, same time. I, as usual, had to reluctantly behave very mature.

All in all the trip was great and safe, and the guys enjoyed it thoroughly.

Route: Coimbatore = Palakad = Vadakancherry = Nelliampathy = Coimbatore (300 km approximately). Accommodation at Vadakancherry. Total cost: Rs. 350/= per head approximately including food, stay, and petrol.

____________

The Team in Pothundy Dam. (L-R) Akatheeswaran, Ganesh, Anand, Me, Mohan, Andrews, Karthick, Alex, Mahendran

We are the Kings of the World

Jeeping in the Jungle

Jeeping in the Jungle

3-Wheel Drive???

Loner in Seethar Kundu

In the Woods

Team Suicide???

Loner in Malampara

Trekking in the Hills

Uttar Pradesh ↓↓ -- Madhya Pradesh ↑↑

2007-01-14T11:19:00.000+05:30

If you are wondering what this Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh business is, well I lost some scalp hair in my Uttar Pradesh region and gained a few centimeters to my tummy in my Madhya Pradesh region in 2006. One of my countless resolutions this year is to reduce Madhya Pradesh.

Apart from that, 2006 was a great year. To start with, I got transferred back to my hometown of Coimbatore and in a different role now. The year started with a bike trip to Coorg and ended with a bike trip to Athirapally-Valparai (both with my friend Kicha). I was lucky enough to go on trips in all the 12 months of 2006. Shakaleshpur, Thadiyandamol, Chennrayanadurga, Siddarbetta, BR Hills, Tirupathi, Wayanad, Trivandrum, Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, Avalanchi, Masinangudi, Valparai, Grass Hills, Tanjore, Athirapally are some of places which I visited.

Professionally too, it was a great year for me. I got transferred back to my hometown and in a new role now.

The best thing which happened to my in 2006 was my team. I just love them all. They are mix of young and middle-age people and are simply great to work with. The way they pooled together to celebrate my birthday spoke of their affection. I am sure many of them are going to get promoted in 2007 with their hard work, and I am sure we are going to have a great year ahead in 2007.

As with last year, Kicha and I decided to start the year with a trip and we decided on Athirapally-Valparai (Dec 29 and 30 were the dates). I had been in the same route before with Abdul in September, but decided to go there again to enjoy the beauty again. Last time it was rain, rain all the way. This time, it was totally dry and sunny. Though the beauty remains the same, I would always prefer to go in rains to see the freshness and green.

Route and other details available in my earlier blog in September 2006.

Kicha and me

Shouting in joy

Biking in the shrubs

Dangerous curve ahead!!!

Back to the past

Travelling - It's my cup of tea

Athirappaly in the morning

Beautiful road in the jungle

Sunbath in the forest

Chalakudy River

Who is God?

2006-12-04T02:18:00.000+05:30

Grass Hills Trip, Oct 29-30, 2006

2006-11-23T06:39:00.000+05:30

Grass Hills, this was one place I wanted to visit desperately. I had heard about the place the last 3 times I visited Valpari. Luckily, my colleague Ramanan had worked in Valparai for 20 years and had enough connections to make the trip happen. And like that we started on Oct 29th morning by bus.

To say about Grass Hills, this is one outstanding place and still a virgin territory. Very few people go there except the occasional trekkers and forest guards (I hope it remains that way). Words fail if one were to describe the beauty of the place, Mother Nature has been very generous with Grass Hills. There is a small hut in Grass Hills where you can stay overnight, but be ready as there is no electricity there. Food and other necessary items have to be carried there. But the best part is the travel to Grass Hills, which is possible either by trekking or by a Sumo. In case you are opting for a Sumo, better be prepared to push the vehicle as in some parts the ground is so muddy that it is impossible for the vehicle to move without pushing from behind (which is what we were doing for the most part). And, of course, you can expect lots and lots of leeches there.

Staying was at a place called Mudis Club, of which Ramanan was a member - a very nice and cosy place. The trip culminated with a visit to a tea factory the next day. All in all, it was a very memorable trip.

Route: Coimbatore = Pollachi = Valparai = Grass Hills.

You can catch buses from Coimbatore to Valparai via Pollachi. From Valparai, Grass Hills can be accessed by a Sumo (rent will come around Rs.1800/= for a round trip). It is a 5-hour trip.

Athirapally Trip - Sep 17-18, 2006

2006-09-23T01:58:00.000+05:30

Abdul, my friend, heard about the famed girls of Kerala and was pestering me for a trip there and Lakshmi (my bike) too was dying to go for a trip, it's been more than 2 months since I went on a bike trip, so thought it would be a good idea to go to Kerala. We planned we will start on Sunday (Sep 17) morning, but the day started off with a heavy rain, but we felt we should stick on to our plans and so we started with the rains. This is my first trip where I started off drenched and came back dry (by the way, my wallet too was dry by the end of trip :-)).

Going to Athirapally via Palghat and returning via Valparai in Tamil Nadu side will be a good idea as the route from Athirapally to Valparai is simply an outstanding one. For nearly 60 km, you drive through thick forests and the greatest artist of all times, Nature.

Going to Kerala in rainy season has its own advantages, everything seems fresh and green, especially the forests look beautiful in rains.

Athirapally consists of 3 falls - Athirapally, Charpa, and Vazhachal. Each one is around 2 km from each other.

As with all trips, some interesting things happened in this trip too. The first one, we were looking out for a place to stay in Athirapally and what all resorts and names we could see. They had names like Oakvalley, Riverview, Hillview, Greenvalley, Lakeview, etc. And captions too like "You stay with us once, we stay with you always." I was seriously doubting whether they give complimentary HIV which stays with us always. We were terrified on seeing those as we were doubtful of the rates, but it turned out only the names were hi-fi, most of the resorts turned out to be shabby ones. In fact, one resort was behind a grocery store and one was a single room in a house, which they call a resort. And none of those places had power. Finally we ended up staying in Hotel Araam, which is run by KTDC, which turned out to be good with excellent food.

Statutory warning to drinkers: You won't get any liquuor in Athirapally - you have to drive back 30 km to Chalakudy or drink country arrack or stay sober. I decided on the third option even though the hotel guy told the arrack is good.

My camera suddenly started behaving funnily, that is, it stopped working and I missed out capturing the beauty of the forest from Athirapally to Valparai (Oh God!, how beautiful it is). And the most interesting part was there was a shooting going on in Charpa falls and my heartthrob of 2002, Sherin, was acting in it. No need to say that it was for a song sequence in the waterfalls. Abdul and I literally had to drag ourselves out of the place.

Except the road from Athirapally to Sholayar, all the roads are good, but beware of the mist in Valparai. Visibility is hardly 5 feet.

Route (400 km approx): Coimbatore = Palghat = Chalakudy = Athirapally = Sholayar = Valparai = Pollachi = Coimbatore.

Expenses = Rs.500 per person including food, staying, and petrol for 2 days.

Abdul on the road to Thrissur

Thinking of Whom?

Me in my natural setting

Athirapally in her Full Glory

The beautiful road from Athirapally to Vazhachal

Chalakudy River

Athirapally Falls

Chalakudy Road

Athirapally Falls

Tanjore Trip - Sep 2-3, 2006

2006-09-13T05:17:00.000+05:30

Being afraid of the sins I made in the last 1 year, I decided I should go on a pilgrimage to wash those away. Yamanoor had a come down from US with a camera half the size of him and desperate to capture India in his camera, Prabhu wanted to see the temples before he comes up with any other blog, and I wanted after a long time to have a trip minus non-veg, drinks, etc., etc., so off we went. We started on Sep 2 morning and returned by Sep 4 afternoon.

Route: Coimbatore = Tanjore = Kumbakonam = Darasuram = Keezha Pazhayarai = Gangaikondacholapuram = Coimbatore.

Total distance: 750 km approx.

Tanjore can be covered in day 1 from Coimbatore.

Rest of the places can be covered on day 2. Staying in Kumbakonam on day 1 and Trichy day 2 should suffice.

Expenses: Rs. 1300 approx per person.

Coming back to the point, there is a lot we can do for our temples. Some of our great temples are in desolate condition, especially the one in Keezha Pazhayarai which has such a rich history. It is now left with only one lady who takes care of it voluntarily.

There is one excellent blog, http://templesrevival.blogspot.com, which gives good ideas on what to do about this.

Tanjore Countryside

Ganesh Temple at Gangaikondacholapuram

Gangaikondacholapuram

Ruined Gopuram at Keezha Pazhayarai

Gangaikondacholapuram

Tanjore Trip - Sep 2-3, 2006

2006-09-13T04:56:00.000+05:30

Iravadeeshwarar Temple at Darasuram

Darasuram

A few of the 108 pillars at Darasuram

Raja Gopuram at Brahadeeshwarar Temple

Stone Chariot at Darasuram

Brahadeeshwarar Temple by Sunset

Gopurams of Sarangapani Temple at Kumbakonam

Brahadeeshwarar Temple by Night

Nandi Mantapam at Brahadeeshwarar Temple

Front view of Brahadeeshwarar Temple

Thirumurthy Hills - Aug 19, 2006

2006-08-23T01:00:00.000+05:30

Independence Day at Office - Aug 15, 2006

2006-08-23T00:53:00.000+05:30

Masinangudi - Aug 13-14, 2006

2006-08-21T02:26:00.000+05:30

Team Trip - Aug 6, 2006

2006-08-21T02:21:00.000+05:30

Avalanchi - July 9-10, 2006

2006-07-22T04:03:00.000+05:30

Azhiyar - July 3, 2006

2006-07-11T03:21:00.000+05:30

Valparai Trip - July 2-3, 2006

2006-07-11T02:36:00.000+05:30

Wayanad Trip - May 27-28, 2006

2006-06-14T00:53:00.000+05:30

Nanjangud - May 27, 2006

2006-05-30T18:10:00.000+05:30

Thadiyandamol Trek - May 20, 2006

2006-05-24T20:06:00.000+05:30

Temples

2006-05-17T17:49:00.000+05:30

Kanyakumari
Tiruvannamalai

Tirunelveli

Mekedatu Trip - May 8, 2006

2006-05-16T20:11:00.000+05:30

Shivanasamudram Trip - April 30, 2006

2006-05-16T20:07:00.000+05:30

Musings of a Senseless Mind

2006-05-04T20:31:00.000+05:30

“Let’s spare some time for the moon before sleep” – had a chance to listen to this lyric of Vairamuthu yesterday. At that time I thought when was the last time we saw the moon just for the joy of seeing it – Last night? Last week? or Last year?

Relationship between man and moon starts from the day he is born. It goes on from mother feeding the baby by showing the moon, family having "nilachoru," – having dinner in the moonlight, and so on. Of late, just like Pongal, Chitra Pournami (full moon during the Tamil month of Chitirai that falls during April and May) and other traditional functions, it seems the moon also has gone into the villages leaving the cities.

Moon doesn’t differentiate anything. Moon reflecting on the river Kaveri, moon reflecting on the water of the evening rain, moon reflecting on the drainage – all the moons seem the same. Thinking of this, an incident in the life of Adi Sankarar comes to the mind.

Once Adi Sankarar was on his way to perform ablutions to Kasi Viswanathar in the sacred waters of the Ganga and he encountered a man who belonged to a lower caste. On being asked to move aside to give way, the man asked “Is it the Atma or the body that comes in the way? Why is there doubt and confusion based on caste differentiation? Is there any difference in the reflection of the moon in the waters of the Ganga or in the waters of a canal, or in the water that is stored in a golden vessel or in a mud pot?” The man turned out to be Lord Shiva. How true!!! Only man gives the value to all things. Only man gives a higher value to gold than mud, moon doesn’t.

Once had a chance to see the temple at Perur in moonlight. Moon gives a mysterious light. That night it was spreading a mysterious cool light in the temple. Aren’t we seeing the same moon which Buddha, Jesus, and Gandhi saw. Columbus when searching the route to India and Krishnadevarayar when building Hampi saw the same moon, right?

Moon which seeps through the leaves of a coconut tree is never boring to see, no matter how many times and how long you see it.

Thinking of this, I wanted to see the moon again and went to the terrace. Water had puddled here and there on the terrace from the evening rain. There was a moon floating in each puddle. My neighbour’s cat was licking water from one of the puddle. Was it drinking water or the moon?

Cat or any animal is able to express it emotions anywhere, man is not. Is this because except man no species thinks so high of itself and makes boundaries?

I wanted to jump in joy on seeing the moon, but I was afraid whether my neighbour will see me, I came down silently to home and slept.

Talakona Trip - Apr 17, 2006

2006-05-03T20:40:00.000+05:30

Tirupati Trip - Apr 16, 2006

2006-05-03T20:31:00.000+05:30

Chennarayanadurga Trip - Apr 10, 2006

2006-05-03T18:47:00.000+05:30

BR Hills Trip - Mar 20, 2006

2006-05-03T18:40:00.000+05:30

Shakaleshpur Trek

2006-03-24T15:48:00.000+05:30

Irresistible Bharathi

2006-03-19T11:45:00.000+05:30

Silent World

2006-03-18T19:36:00.000+05:30

My Sunday morning as usual started with dipping clothes for washing. Just then a couple of my roommate’s friends came. Both of them are doing some project related to genetics (that ACTG thing which I tried a lot but never understood). They had come down to Bangalore to do a survey for their studies. They are doing their Ph.D. about deafness and the genes involved in causing deafness.

They were doing their survey through a programme called Swayamwara that was going on in the town. It is sort of a gathering where men and women around 20-40 years of age who are deaf and dumb meet and select their life partners. They register with the counselor there who then makes them all sit in the stage in two groups of men and women and then leaves it to them to select their partners.

The programme was arranged in a marriage hall. The first of my many surprises that day started as soon as I entered the hall. One would expect at least some minimum noise when you enter any gathering, but as I went in I could just see only hands wavering. One could see that they were talking (Is talking the right word here?); anyway, they were talking through hand motions. No one hardly gave us a look when we entered. They were all busy talking. I was totally surprised, how on earth can anyone talk so much without making noise, but they were, in their own way, cracking jokes, enquiring each other’s health, and making fun of each other.

I saw a Muslim family of around 15 people, they looked like they were an Urdu family, but they were conversing with people around them very comfortably, and each one of those people was from a different background. Most of them looked like South Indians and I saw some people from North-East too. I thought how good it will be if all of us have one universal language apart from our mother tongue to speak to all the people in the world? I envy those people, they looked like they never bothered about religion, language, or caste, they were just happily conversing.

After some time, the organiser introduced us to all. He asked them to cooperate with us in our survey. And what surprises we had after that!!! The survey is about basically their personal data, whether they would like to marry a deaf and dumb person or not and will they be willing to have children with them. And if they are willing to have children, will they like to diagnose and see whether the fetus has any deformity and if yes will they abort it or not.

Rather than the survey itself, what impressed me more was the attitude of them. One young female came to the counselor and wanted to register for the swayamwara. She was looking perfectly normal, she spoke good English and was able to answer all questions. We were wondering why she came to the swayamwara in the first place, though it was none of our business. Just then, she parted her hair which was covering her ears and showed us her ears. She had partial hearing loss and was having a hearing aid for that, without the hearing aid also she could hear a bit, but she was insistent that she would get married there. A big salute to her, many a time we always want to have the best in life, but here a physically challenged person wants to give life to another person who is like her. I felt so small in front of her.

Just then a north Indian family entered the hall, a mother, father, and two daughters. We thought they had come to see their relatives, but we were shocked when we saw both the daughters going to the stage. My God, they were young and so good-looking that one could hardly believe that they would be physically challenged. All the eyes were on them. We were not able to identify what emotions were running inside us, whether we were feeling pity for them or whether we were shocked. One could only hardly fathom what the two girls were thinking at that moment. My heart went to their parents who were watching their pretty girls sitting on the stage waiting for someone to marry them.

Coming back the survey, when we asked whether they would be willing to marry persons with the same disability, they told “yes” without any hesitation. And what if they found out that the fetus was having the disability as them, they told “no,” they would not abort it. I asked the same question to myself, but couldn’t arrive at an answer. Of course, even if I said “yes” that would be only an emotional answer.

Every day life teaches us something, and that day it taught us about how gifted we are to be born without any disabilities. When we came out, all the horn and traffic sounds of Bangalore sounded like music to our ears.

It took us till evening to finish the survey, and we left them all in their own silent world.