Anand Elangbam

Living for a reason

2011-12-22T21:34:00.000-08:00

It has been a year of so many ups and downs like my previous years… I, sometimes, wonder how much of it has been fated or otherwise. I lost my eldest brother this year in a freak accident. This happened soon after my return from Europe tour, which to my mind was a pilgrimage of sorts. I cannot comprehend the nature of providence or how God works in strange ways but, the manner in which we lost our eldest brother soon after losing Dad within a span of two years has made me reflect upon my life’s perspective, priorities and decisions.
The remaining years now seem laden with responsibilities and expectations, unwittingly fostered upon my unhappy life as it is. There is nothing I can do about this changes and the only salvation will be in accepting the inevitable. The attempt of Suraj’s wife to contest the election was thwarted, thanks to the advice of some rational people, including myself! Her temperamental personality apart, she had no chance of winning an election of this proportion. The outcome of this has been most unpleasant to our family because after this incident, she seemed to have drifted more towards her maternal family members, who were allegedly responsible for encouraging her in the first place!
The tragedy, in my mind, has been her inability to come to terms with her situation, complemented by her inbred distrust of our good intentions due to our different outlooks. The sword of Damocles has instead fallen on my elder brother,Chand, who has been inspired to take the mantle and has resigned from his secure Govt. job. All these developments has left a dent in our family’s peace of mind, especially to our ailing Ima. The children have been inadvertantly affected and vulnerable to the whims of the elders. Whereas Suraj’s children will not only suffer the pangs of losing their beloved father, they have been influenced by their mother’s malice, Chand’s young children are now exposed to the uncertainties of political life and possibilities of financial ruin.
As a single man, who lives with his family members inspite of many misgivings, I think I made a right decision to come back from Canada to be with my family. I know that I have not been very happy with my decision earlier when Suraj was still around because I felt like a wimp for giving up my dream. However, with his passing, I feel as if all the things that has happened in my life has been pre-destined somehow, thinking that perhaps, I was meant to be here!
I also believe that one of the important reasons for living is the feeling of being needed, besides dreams and love of course. The later two, which must now take a second place in the order of things for an entity called, Anand Elangbam.

Chapter 4: Visiting Oxford, England.

2011-08-16T23:10:00.000-07:00

VISITING THE FAMED OXFORD, ENGLAND: June2011.

Did you know that British students pay half a less amount of fees than foreign students in most U.K. Universities?

I understood that even if there were undercurrents of resentment at certain levels about the excess of immigrants and Asians, Universities in England could not ignore the fact that without foreign students and their contribution to the economy, English economy would not be the same. Visiting Oxford was like a dream come true. I am sure that most of the English literate population of the world grew up with names like Oxford dictionary, Oxford University, etc.

The train to Oxford took only few hours from Coventry and it was good to travel during the off peak time as it was cheaper and less crowded. This knowledge was helpful in all my train travels everywhere in England. I looked up my travelling companion, "Europe on a shoestring." A lonely planet publication and a very helpful book for a budget traveller like me. I also scanned the map of Oxford and read about the places I could visit during my journey.

My first impression of Oxford as I got down from the train was one of a busy and a popular city, with Oxford University as its predominant edifice inspiring awe and admiration of many a traveller like myself. I enquired about the last train timing from the information desk before getting out of the station for safety reasons because it was a one day trip only. The station was quite crowded with tourists and inhabitants alike. There were many bars and restaurants just outside the station and rather than taking a bus as an option, I decided to walk the streets of Oxford as advised in my book.

My first focus was the Christ College and its Church, supposedly the most famous place in Oxford. It was as beautiful as in the Harry Potter's Movies. The entry fee was 7 pounds and there were plenty of tourists, taking pictures everywhere. The guides inside did not hesitate to throw in Harry Potter's names here and there to entice the tourist's thirst for excitement. But one simply had to enjoy the fine gothic and renaissance architecture or the ambience of the place than really bother about anything else. Some of the areas were out of bounds for tourists for obvious reasons- there were students everywhere as the colleges were “Living and Learning entities,” not some museum or historical monuments. I admired the cleverness of the Brits in making Oxford University a tourist place as well as a seat of learning. There were other famous colleges everywhere and they all charged entry fees. I wouldn’t be surprised if ‘Tourism’ gives a run for money for the University than just the College Fees!

I could not miss the free entry to Oxford Museum where I saw such precious scientific inventions from all across the world, especially mariner's and mathematical instruments. The opera building was another interesting one. The market was as lively as the University itself and crowded to the brim. My camera ran out of battery afterwards and I just enjoyed just walking and observing the people and the beautiful city that was Oxford before heading back to Coventry late in the evening.

I assumed that Universities played a major role in English life because most of their cities displayed their University names as a sort of identity of the Cities themselves. As the train took me back to Coventry, my mind was already filled with plans for my next destinations - Manchester Picadily, Lake District and Scotland.

To be continued.

Chapter 3: My summer in Cornwall, England.

2011-08-02T02:59:00.000-07:00

"My Summer in Cornwall," smilingly said the lady who took a picture of me on the beach of Bude, Cornwall. I felt such pleasure on reaching the place called Bude, via Exeter. The friendliness of the inhabitants combined with the beauty of Cornwall, often a favourite muse of many authors and painters made this trip a special itinerary on my list. I carried my beachwear, a rug, and my backpack with the hope of taking surfing lessons if the weather permitted. My expectations were more than fulfilled. I felt that it was off the beaten track of International Tourism as I did not see many Asians or Africans travelling with me except for some local tourists. One of the bus drivers I chatted with told me that he was a Londoner who decided to settle down in Cornwall because he liked the peace and quiet.Cornwall hills also happened to be a favourite of the Dutch according to him.

My journey from Coventry to Cornwall was an exciting but tiring bus ride in one of those very efficient national express buses. A commendable thing about the bus services were that they not only follow a strict code of punctuality, the drivers including women drivers also drove by themselves without a conductor and they took charge of every passenger's luggage without much ado. Every buses had a CCTV inside and outside. So, it was sheer pleasure to just look at the LCD screen as we criss-crossed some of the most beautiful English landscapes and cities. We stopped at Bristol for lunch, and it was bigger than most of the cities we passed through. I had to catch a local bus from Exeter to Bude. However, the bus driver informed me that he would not be driving to Bude directly and he gave me an option to either wait for the next bus or catch one from Launceston if I chose to travel with him. I chose the latter and soon as we careened towards our destination, I realized that I was the lone Asian in the midst of the locals who talked with a peculiar accent. The driver left me in a beautiful place called Launceston, after informing his colleague to pick me from there on his radio. Such friendliness and helpfulness of the drivers to a lone traveller was something I had never faced anywhere!

I realized that it was getting late and bought dinner from a Chinese take-away which I conveniently found adjacent to the bus stand as I waited for my next bus. Two friendly ladies also joined me latter and soon as I chatted with them, they asked me if I was a Chinese or a Mongolian! The local bus driver was a young chap and he had another woman colleague, and both of them looked up the map to locate my hostel address. They even stopped the bus next to the street closest to the hostel! On seeing an inn nearby, I entered and asked the receptionist if she could direct me to my hostel because I was kind of lost in the absence of any signs of the building itself. An employee having dinner there asked me to wait for few minutes and afterwards, he drove me to my hostel in his own car. I was really flattered and thanked him profusely for the Cornish hospitality.

The hours were late but I decided to check out the beach before I slept. So, I went out after checking in to my room. Bude took my breath away and the beach was just few minutes’ walk from where I stayed. I took my camera to take pictures and after a strong gust of wind, it soon started drizzling. I turned in to my cheap but very decent hostel for the night with a promise to try surfing the next day. I got up the next morning and on my way to the beach, I bought an outdoor jacket on sale while doing my morning photo shoot. It was cloudy and the lifeguard predicted an unfriendly sea for surfing and even though I a saw a couple of people surfing, I decided to spend my day visiting a place called "Clovelly."

Clovelly was supposed to be one of the most favourite tourist destinations. I got all the required information from their tourist information centre and got up on a local bus. Soon, I was on my way to Clovelly and again, I was dropped off in one place from where another bus took me to Clovelly. The City Centre through which we entered Clovelly charged about 7 pounds as entry fee.

The place turned out to be one of the most beautiful places I had ever visited. Once a fishing village, perched on the cliff with a vista of the blue ocean and home to the famous author Charles Kingsley, who once wrote children stories and a place which inspired Charles Dickens, Irish painters, as well as sailors during the great war and the second world war. I saw Charles Kingsley's museum which was the house he stayed in most of his life and like all the homes of the famous men and women of England I had visited, all the rooms were furnished in its original settings with many photographs and antique pieces.

The descent to the shore along the cobbled walk was amazing with interesting shops decorated with exotic and colorful flowers, restaurants and mules too! There were no sand on the beach, and it was stone pebbles that lined the shoreline to my utter surprise! After my tour of the place, I finally climbed up again and found to my trepidation that I was the only passenger to wait for the last bus. I shopped while I waited and bought souvenirs and a tent on sale again. As always, the bus came punctually right on time and with great relief, I returned to Bude all safe and sound.

On the last day, I had a hearty Cornish breakfast and English tea which had become an essential part of my trip before my return trip to Coventry and make plans for my next destination, Oxford.

To be continued.

Chapter 2: Exploring the Midlands, England.

2011-07-25T00:12:00.000-07:00

Did you know that the name “England” is often mistaken for “United Kingdom” or “Great Britain?” England is one of the nations that make up the U.K. The people of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, although a part of Great Britain are not too pleased if mistaken for English! You will find Scottish nationalist, Welch nationalist and Irish Nationalist amongst the British, as most of us know them. They are proud of their unique national identities and their history, not to mention their accents!
But what makes "the British" as they can be called utterly refined and civilized as compared to many countries of the world today is perhaps their unity in thoughts and action, their mannerisms, their love of their country and sensitivities to their environment and people in general. A sentence is not spoken without a greeting- “Hi there” or “Hello, excuse me” nor complete without a “Cheers, Mate!” or “Thank you.” Just simple words really, but like I always say – These words can sometimes move mountains of cultural and linguistic barriers. It is no wonder that other Countries could not match Britain in diplomacy and British Rule not so long ago.
The administrative divisions of England is simple. They have Counties and Burgs, which may be equivalent to Indian States and Districts, although with distinctive connotations. I found it most convenient to plan my travel itinerary at Coventry, where I stayed with the small but lovely and generous family of Dr. Bish Elangbam(as popularly known in his University hospital). I could explore England, staying in this Midland Town and get the best out of the famously picturesque English Countryside.

My first day was to visit the birthplace of William Shakespear - Stratford upon Avon. It was not very far from Coventry and we drove down to see Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and Shakespear’s childhood home. The apple orchard and the forest walk impressed us most. The motorway was incredibly beautiful and so were the houses as we crossed many beautiful towns and cities such as Warwick, Kenilworth, etc. enroute our destination. The houses were mostly built with embossed red brick in a typically English architectural style. I saw English Tavern, Inns and the famous Avon River of Stratford upon Avon. Some folk artists band were performing on the cobbled street and people would drop a coin or two as a form of appreciation. What amazed me most was the preservation of their greenery, exotic flowers and homes which all bore different characters and colors based on the area and history. Almost all the homes have been preserved since the 17/18th Centuries or even earlier. Castles and Churches have been preserved to attract tourists, perhaps also as a reminder of their great heritage.

The next morning was sunny to start with and quite unpredictable as English weather goes, it rained in the afternoon. I tagged along for an English lunch to Cotswold. Bish, Bebe and I drove down with the help of GPS to visit their old friends, Lady Belinda and her husband, who lived in a quintessential English mansion at a beautiful and remote farm of Cotswold. The drive was fabulous. We had different courses of meal as usual with red wine and cheese, beside the main course. Their mansion was also of 17/18th century and during post lunch tea, we discussed about the state of affairs of Manipur and history. Incidentally, Lady Belinda happened to be an author on Manipur POLO and perhaps, sparked by one of her ancestrial link with the colonial British era of Manipur, she continued to be fascinated by our history and people. On our return journey, we stopped to experience an English Pub in Cotswold, in one of the most romantic places on Earth! All credit to my wonderful host for giving me a new vista of English countryside and lifestyle.

To be continued.

The Tourist from the North East

2011-07-13T04:00:00.000-07:00

Chapter 1: Prologue

“Why do you want to visit the Netherlands?” asked the man behind the glass wall of the Kingdom of Netherlands embassy at Chanakyapuri, Delhi. It was a simple question alright. My response was equally simple, “I have always wanted to visit the place!”

I guessed I got it right. I don’t know. But after an uncertain wait for few days I finally got my Shengen visa to visit the rest of Europe other than the U.K. I flew to Heathrow, London the next day.

The first thing that struck me on landing was the bizarre way “Time” seems to work in this world we reside. Knowing the time difference didn’t prepare me for the difference in the length of daytime between our countries. It was already past 7 p.m. but it was bright as morning there. The daytime persisted till about 10 p.m. or 11 p.m. Then, morning lights came at about 4 a.m. Later, I found out that it worked the exact opposites during winter season. Long dark nights, and very short daytime. Amazing!

Call it “my lonesome adventure.” A pilgrimage, if you like. Or perhaps, my Mecca of childhood dreams and fantasies. The geographical illustrations and the travel books I consumed since my 4th /5th grades or the curiosity that burned during those long boring university days as a history student were all instrumental for this journey to Europe, turning dreams into a thing of reality. I landed safe and sound to what once was “Pax Britannica!”

After a long and miserable queue at the border control immigration point and the usual immigration queries from a bored and irritated officer, the first thing to do was to buy a SIM from a machine by inserting 10 pounds note. I didn’t know that I had to buy another 5 pounds worth of top up to make it work. I tried in vain. I asked a pretty blonde sitting next to me to help me. She tried but after a while, we both agreed that I might have to buy another top up. But by then, even the sales girl in the shop couldn’t get it to work. The last bus to Coventry had left as informed by the tourist information centre. I tried calling up my nephew, Charan, but there was no response. I felt a little panicky!

Finally, I got some change from a shop and called up Biswajeet, with the intention of asking him to pick me up because by that time, I was truly exhausted from my long journey and the wait at the immigration point. Fortunately, a familiar voice answered and he agreed to come down from Coventry even though it was a 2 hours journey by car. I felt embarrassed to trouble him so but because of the predicament I was in, I felt much better when he asked me to wait for few hours. Later, we found out that my SIM was blocked automatically as I tried too many times and had to wait 24 hours to make it work. Imagine!

(To be continued)

Inspired by Real Life experience

2011-03-31T05:25:00.000-07:00

DIMAPUR NEZCC COLLAGE

2011-03-26T19:45:00.000-07:00

Spring Festival, Dimapur

2011-03-26T02:19:00.000-07:00

DIMAPUR, THE GREAT LAND ON THE BANK OF A RIVER.

My flight schedules between Imphal Tulihal Airport and Dimapur Airport were rudely interrupted by a delay of few hours. I was told that it was to be expected in one of the worst sectors of Indian Aviation destinations. Notwithstanding the ill maintained state of both the Airports, I was rather mystified by the degree of stoic silence and indifference shown by leaders of both the States of Manipur and Nagaland.
My visit to Dimapur had a purpose this time. I was to attend the Spring Festival organized by the North East Zone Cultural Centre. It was a tempting invitation I could not resist, merely by virtue of the event itself, the invitee and the chance of a home-stay experience that was more worthwhile than travelling great distance.
I was struck by the beauty of the Stage decoration which was an art in itself, designed by a naga sculptor in an inimitable naga style. The performance by artists from different parts of India, accompanied by live folk musicians made an excellent array of cultural synthesis that one rarely sees in India.
The book stalls were limited and so were the book lovers. The dwindling number of booklovers across the world could perhaps be attributed for the shortfall in the sale and quality of the book stalls itself. However, it was an expected call and nothing could be done to assuage this limitation. One could only hope optimistically for a pragmatic compromise between paperback and digital technology in future.
For those who relish native delicacies, it was also a venue to try their taste buds. Beside the more popular momos and chinese cuisines, Rice wine (mystically written as Zoutho!), smoked pork, akhuni, anishi (?), etc. were available on the few food stalls put up for the food lovers.
I realized that my chance visit to the forgotten land on the bank of River Dhansiri, presently known as Dimapur, was once inhabited by the Kacharis around A.D. 10. They built forts and left their heritage of monoliths in the heart of the city, and now, preserved in a dilapidated state with a fence. The monoliths, which came in different designs, shapes, and sizes were also the silent spectators to the phenomenon of continuity and change of history of this place.
Dimapur, the city resembled any of the growing small cities of India with evidences of few open drains, narrow roads with potholes, few affluent homes, impressive malls, busy shopping centres, etc. Only the grandeur of the omnipresent Churches visible in most places could be the testimony to the monolithic role they play in Naga society and politics - perhaps much akin to the once flourishing monoliths of the Kacharis once upon a time.

Funny People

2011-02-08T06:07:00.000-08:00

Funny how people around you have such different sense of priorities and understanding. It never fails to baffle me how they try to show they care about you in most annoying ways. Sometimes, they can go to such ridiculous lengths, thinking that they know you better than you know yourself. In more ways than one, I suspect that they just don't know the art of an intelligent conversation. They unknowingly or knowingly try to cover it up with their limited knowledge, even going as far as trying to thrust their beliefs and opinionated views on your conscience or behavior.

What they seem to forget is that some people are not easily affected by anything other than their own. You may call them by different names, such as stubborn, arrogant, egoistic, cocksure, etc. This type of personality hates labels and yet they can be defined as someone who cannot be influenced by any means and by anyone because they think they know best about themselves. Through years of experience or wisdom gained from voracious reading and hard work, they have developed their own universe in which they dwell with such confidence and indifference that they are hard nuts to crack, least of all by anyone whom they consider inferior in every sense. What they consider important and worth keeping, they will do so only in their own terms, granted of course that such terms meet their high standards and good tastes. Uncompromising in so many ways, I belong to such type of personality fortunately or unfortunately!

Vexed at being reminded so much about what I ought to do or what they think about me, I try to simply ignore or prefer to remain a passive listener in many of those meaningless social gatherings, which I am compelled to be a part of from time to time because of a stupid sense of piety. Even worse is trying my best to act as if I am interested in anything they might say because good manners forbid me to counter their attempt at good advice, however ridiculous it all sounds to me. Herein lies the state of my mind at this juncture of growth, because I remain different than their sense of normalcy. Hence, I represent a riddle to these so-called well wishers who feel that any deterrence is an aberrance. Therefore, they try to show they care in most funny ways- like telling me to try black magic to get my hair back, to try some lotion, to get a hair transplant, to get married without thinking too hard, to marry someone who will serve my parents, to marry someone who will bring all good things in my miserable life as they believe my life to be... How funny!

My New Year Resolution

2010-12-29T06:05:00.000-08:00

It's that time of the year again. It's that season of goodwill when everyone should be doing an act of virtue. It doesn't matter if you don't have anyone special in your life. What really matters is the thoughtfulness and sensibilities to your surrounding. I also believe that everyone should make a positive resolution for the New Year. Mine is to travel and visit places I have never visited before!
Another important resolution is to remain positive come rain or sunshine. I have very little to offer to the world but I continue to serve my people in my profession as a humble Govt. servant to the best of my abilities. If I cannot offer commitment to anyone special, I may be excused, for I am very committed to sharing my ideas and principles with people who respects me. It doesn't matter how rich or how poor for somebody to be a noble soul. And in the depth of my conviction, there still burns the fire of optimism. I thank the Lord and my parents for making my life comfortable and for providing good education. These two has always given me confidence and a strong belief in myself in the face of obstacles. Yes, I resolve to be positive and travel the world as long as my body allows me and my spirit of adventure burns.

10 days Vacation at Karnataka & Kerala

2010-12-14T04:10:00.000-08:00

Saturday, the 4th Dec. 2010: Our Vacation started with a direct flight from Tulihal Airport, Imphal to Bengalaru Airport, Bangalore. We landed a few minutes ahead of schedule and B'lore airport turned out to be really brand new one (only 3 years old), very impressive and built like any other international airport. I could see how much development had taken place since the last time I was here in the year 2000. A middle aged malayali driver came to pick us up in a brand new Xylo and he spoke good english. Originally from Kochi but working at Bangalore, he drove slowly towards the city. We discussed our plans for the next day trip to Mysore on our way to the hotel. He wasn't very confident with the driving, or perhaps, he was just too apprehensive of his new car!
The hotel was named Dew drop, close to Majestic Rd, just opposite "Mantrin Mall," supposedly the biggest mall in B'nglore. It was a new one and quite comfortable. After leaving Ima, aunt and cousin sis, I took Somorjit to Brigade Rd., with the intention of taking him to a pub/bar and then, a nostalgic meal at my favourite restaurant, Hotel Imperial. I had forgotten the name but I knew the place and so, I found it with ease once the Auto dropped us near the St. Patrick Church, my old landmark. I felt a pang of nostalgia as we got into the joint, Guzzler, as others were too crowded... The music was still good after all these years. I had my favourite kerala paratha and kababs at hotel imperial to end the day.
5th Dec: After a hearty complimentary breakfast, we moved on to Mysore for sightseeing at about 8.30 a.m. We crossed Ramnagar, famous for its role in the film Sholay, Mandya, the sugar town, toy town and silk town... It was a beautiful drive with few stopover to buy toys and souvenirs. It took us about 3 hours to reach our destination. We drove across the town, seeing the governor's residence, to Mysore Palace and then, to Brindavan Garden. Our driver, Gokul was well versed with the history and the place. There were two parts of the palace, one owned by the Govt. and the other, under the royalty's care. I made use of my Guide book to the max to learn about the palace and what a palace! It was huge and filled with treasures, paintings and antiques.
On our return journey after an uninspiring view of Brindavan Garden, I called up Kheda and we made plans for him to pick me up from Forum Mall for a night stay at his place. I wanted to see Forum mall and buy a pair of chappals for my beach wear. The place was crowded and after a hectic window shopping, I did buy one and drove with Kheda, behind his Kinetic honda. He took me to his and Surchand's joint, named Misty, the sweet chain. It was fun, meeting old friends again. There was a very convenient beverage shop next to theirs and we bought vodka for the night. Balan came and picked us up and winded at Kheda's place. Met Ritu and her bro. too. It was fun. We slept at about 2 a.m.!

6th Dec:My friend dropped me at the hotel in his Aveo, on his way to the office. We were flying to Kochi after our complimentary breakfast. It was a one hour flight from B'lore to Kochi and the temperature was 31 C. Hot! For a winter standard but normal for Southeners. Another Malayali from Kochi, Veeju met us at the Airport in a new Xylo. He spoke Hindi but understood english too. He would drive us across Kerala but he wasn't too bright either. If you ask him about the places to visit, he would say, 'yaha kuch bi nahin hain!' most of the time and because I forgot to read my Guide book, we missed two important places at Kochi - The Dutch Palace and the Synagogue at Old Fort town, because it was already closed. But we enjoyed the beach, the fishing sights and the first church built by the Portuguese. For dinner, we tried Kerala dishes at our hotel's roof restaurant at the Ernakulam commercial area. The beer was good!

7th Dec: The next destination was Thekaddy (Perriyar), where they grow coffee, tea and famous for spice. It was a hill station up in the mountains and our drive was one of the best, because we crossed such beautiful villages and small towns filled with colorful and well maintained villas amidst a vast greenery, a waterfall and a view point, in the jungle which resembled Arunachal Pradesh or anywhere in the north east. We were promised a great deal at this place and our hotel, named Abad, was one of the most beautiful ones. I went for their Ayurvedic Full body massage as soon as we reached and it cost me Rs. 1100/- for an hour. We missed the Wildlife sanctuary by a few seconds and we decided to see it the next day. We went to see their martial arts performance of Karla and then, shopping for spice and tea, coffee etc. Early the next morning at about 6 am, we drove to the Perriyar Tiger Reserve and we waited a long line for our much anticipated safari. Turned out our anticipation was not worth it because we didn't see any tigers, but saw wild buffaloes, a deer, some exotic birds and wild boars. My mouth was watering of course... the boat ride in the morning was an exceptional one though.

8th Dec: After the safari, we moved on for the next destination to Kumarakom, another bird sanctuary. It was only about 3 hours drive and not a good drive, rather disappointed with Thekaddy. We were wrong! Kumarakom hotel was brand new, only a month old and named, Royal Riviera for a reason. It was marvelous. They had their own cruise that we rented for our group of five only. The boating turned out to be the best in our Trip. Kumarakom Backwaters was a bit off tourist map and not too many boats. Our boatride was such an exhilarating one that we were all ecstatic at our experience. The weather was magic as it had rained in the morning and we experienced the best cruise ever and witnessed the sunset in one of the most beautiful backwaters of Kerala. A place not to be missed!

9th Dec. We drove further into south, to Alleppey, also described as the Venice of India. It was the most famous backwaters of Kerala. Our hotel was a disappointment, named Arcadia Regency. We took a smaller boat along with our driver and it was a long and expensive boat ride across the Alleppey backwaters. We tried fresh grilled fish at a stopover with coconut milk. We came back just around 6 pm, as we were meant to, as all the boats must return by 6 pm because the fishermen of Travancore starts netting their chinese fish nets by that time. It was a rule that everyone must follow. The traffic in the backwaters was really busy and we saw a great number of boathouses. At night, Somorjit and I tried one of their Halal dhabas and had a wonderful meal.

10th, 11th Dec: Another long journey of 4 hours to Kovalam and we decided to take the city road and miss the by-pass in order to see the city of Thiruvananthapuram or Trivandrum, the State Capital. We crossed the famous towns of Kollam or Quillon, Kottayam, etc. It was a beautiful drive and we decided that Kerala was indeed the cleanest state by far, after witnessing their villages and towns which were kept neat and clean. Other Indians ought to learn from them and the only disappointment were the tourists, who have left their indelible mark of environmental disregard with empty mineral water bottles and junk food plastics in the backwaters. Shame on Indians and the antipathy of the tourists who remains indiferent to environmental protection or preservation!

Our Hotel Samudra, supposedly one of the oldest amongst the premier hotels of Kovallam had its own private beach, a swimming pool and a view to die for. I loved swimming in the aftermath of our dip in the ocean and in the morning after a long walk, during my photo shoot. We all loved it and relished the fact that our trip was coming to its cool end. Kovallam, famous for its beaches and one does not need to wonder why. The Keela beach, next to ours was open to public and the hawa beach, the light house beach was filled with foreign tourist, hotels and sea food restaurants. The beach was one of the best joints I have visited in India. We loved it as much as we loved trying out sea food delicacies of tuna fish, sear fish, king fish, snapper, tiger prawns, mutton, paneer, kerala rice, beef, butter naan, kerala paranthas,etc, etc... It was funny about the newspaper covered beer bottles which was supposedly banned huh! What a spoilsport rule for such a cool place... Anyways, rules are made to be broken, right? Who can resist a chilled beer of kingfisher premium in such an ambience. I couldn't...

It drizzled a bit early in the morning of 11th as we headed for the Southern most tip of India, Kanyakumari. Our hired vehicle needed to take a permit as we entered Tamil lands and it was a long drive of about 3 hours. Kanyakumari was another experience and I found that the confluence of the three oceans of Indian Ocean, Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Seas was distinctly visible by the color of the Sea, which had three different colors, Amazing! The short boatride to the Vivekananda Rock, and its twin rock, statue of saint Veeruvalur was achieved after standing in a long line of pilgrims. I became friends with a White lone Canadian Traveller from Vancouver, who told me of his amazing stay in India for 6 months. He had travelled from North to South after flying out to Andaman and Thailand for a short while. Awesome!

12th Dec: We got up late at the Kovallam beach hotel and headed for Trivandrum Airport. We bade farewell to our patient driver, Veeju or Vaijju. We were flying to Kolkata via Mumbai. I did some shopping at Mumbai Airport. It was fun. A night stay at Kolkata Manipur Bhavan where we finally faced the bitter fact - Our Bhavan must be the worst bhavan in India! A dirty, smelly room supposedly given to officers was our fate for the night before heading for home the next day via Agartala.

13th Dec, 2010: Reached Home safe and sound with no current, no water, no fuel and no gas. The story of comfort level in Manipur, the bejewelled land of the damned!

Introspection

2010-07-16T22:29:00.000-07:00

What is the meaning of my existence? I am constantly troubled by this thought and further introspection gives only a myriad of answers that is yet to find anything nearer to a satisfying lucidity.

What worth is our life if we spend half of it sleeping and the rest is spent worrying about our daily chores and survival? The remaining hour at our disposal is so encumbered with the irrelevance, mostly mistaken as the truth or a leap of faith. Strange is the irony that marks our everyday in a pervading theme of self-delusion and mockery. Fools that we are, we are always taken by surprise or act like one taken by surprise rather than admitting to our own folly, manifested in so many ways around us in our search for money, power, fame and glory.

When bad things happen, we take refuge under the wings of philosophical or religious bigotry. Thus, never admitting the truth in the midst of our maelstrom, our life which has lost its meaning of simple living and loving in peace and harmony.

2010-02-12T22:14:00.000-08:00

Confession

2010-02-07T07:50:00.001-08:00

I have been thinking lately and it didn't hurt!

What do you do when you are surrounded by judgemental people? That's what I feel or what I have been made to feel this last few years because I chose to be by myself. I know that I am some kind of freak because I just can't comprehend my life with someone. My sickness or abnormalities of liking to be alone or to remain in solitude is like a taboo around my universe. I know that I love to be by myself most of the time and I cannot imagine liking anyone around me everyday. That will be too much of sacrifice to my well guarded cocoon of bachelorhood. Those who care for me are worried about getting old and what society might look at me or talk about me but what they don't understand is that these are the least of my worries. I know where to look for issues and society is not one of them. "Society" has never interested me. They have never played an important part in my personal decisions although I might have followed social customs when it deals with others. I am somewhat a lost soul because of my lonely existence. The thing is that I prefer my loneliness rather than suffer the agony of suffering a lifetime of unsuitable partnership or sharing the same bed or room! I know I am sick. But, please understand that I am only human with such frailties and imperfections.

The tragedy of our lives

2009-12-13T22:52:00.000-08:00

Happiness, much like everything in life is transitory. It is a momentary phenomenon much like misery. It comes and goes like tides in an ocean. The important thing is that it is entirely a personal experience, which is not easily comprehensible to a next person. Unless of course, if it is reflected externally in the form of spontaneous laughter, smile or a dreamy disposition.
Why are we so afraid to grow old and why remind ourselves of the passing time? If time is so important, why do we feel that we are always running short of it?

The important thing for me is not to let “Time” dominate my life. I should be the one to manipulate “time” to suit my own purposes. Time, after all is as unstoppable as everything in nature. It will carry me through different stages of life whether I like it or not. Humans have simply identified the passing of time externally as young and old, or past, present and future. To me “ Time” is what you make of it. Time is how you use it and how much happiness you get out of it.

If happiness is to be defined, my personal definition would be living life to the fullest doing something you really enjoy doing at the right time. We are often guided by religion or spiritual guidance in our search for eternal bliss. We even contemplate and introspect many theories but often end up confused and capricious. We often experience regrets even knowing that “regret” is only something like smelling a whiff of a scent in the air. Once gone, a moment is gone forever.

Our fates are sometimes guided by circumstances, though not all of it, I must add. For some, whom I categorized as the determined types, they create their own destinies. For others whom I sometimes call “the lucky ones,” things happen in harmony if they put little efforts. Then, there are those who are the “unlucky ones!”

Making the best out of something in one’s possession is also a way of living. However, it is doubtful if they have the real substance of life. Yet, this seems the most common and logical way to conduct our lives because most of us seldom fulfill our dreams. We just exist and work, hoping and dreaming of a better tomorrow. We end up putting our faiths in our hard work and efforts, for a better tomorrow. We work like automated machines. We may complain from time to time but unable to escape the monotony of life that industrialization and institutionalization has wrought in our lives.

We end up as victims of our own creation -the society. We are like prisoners of our social, religious, political and economic dogmas. We stop seeking our true self, “The I” and sacrifice “To Us.” Perhaps, that is why most of us are so lost today. A tragic end to a phenomenon I call “Life.”

Anand E.

When our Minds Change

2009-10-22T19:29:00.000-07:00

What do we do when our minds change?

I am only human. I have the right to change my mind or commit an error. I am not infallible. And yet, I try to make the best out of my mistakes or changes I am compelled to take. I try not to make the same mistakes again or not to change my mind too often.

Some may say that I have a tendency of a whimsical infant, while some may say that I am restless. I admit, I am all that. I am whimsical to the extent that I often feel the need to rebel from boredom and monotony by taking risk like changing my profession too often. I also feel very restless most of the time because I always feel that I can do better than what I have been doing so far. These two friction drives me constantly to unknown territories and experiences I would never have gone if I had not taken the risk or changed my mind.

The point is that even when things don't work out and my mind changes, I always leave with a smile knowing that I have achieved few things, whether big or small. I feel that I have gained some new experiences and new friends wherever I may have been. The future is not really important because I have lived most of my life for every moment, merely following my whims, my dreams and my wisdom. I don't consider myself a winner in many sense, but I do consider myself a winner in following my dream. The consequences are irrelevant and inconsequential because I don't believe in living like others do. I live the way I chose to. Thank God!

Toronto Vista

2009-10-10T20:29:00.001-07:00

An Immigrants Tale.

2009-10-07T20:21:00.000-07:00

So, my friend, your predictions did come true. My plane from Delhi to Brussels had many Punjabees even though the seat next to me remained empty. I could only thank God that there were no crying babies and no harassed mothers sitting next to me!
Then, at the Brussels airport, I almost lost my watch at the security check-in where they literally abused our bodies, removed our shoes and checked our wallets, I was lucky enough to get it back from one of their offices after I went back searching for it. I thought somebody had snitched it, having suffered the agony of more than 8 hours journey, 3 hours wait at the Delhi airport and scepticism borne of being brought up in India. I really sweated it out there because it was my late father's watch I was wearing!
My journey from Brussels to Toronto took another 9 hours or so but it was memorable. I had a 79 year old half Belgian, half Canadian White villager sitting next to me and he simply entertained me throughout with some interesting quotes and stories about his countries. Again, I thanked God that it was not some old senile lady but a fairly wise old man who enlightened me with old wisdom!
As soon as we landed in Pearson International Airport after an agonizing few moments of turbulence and memories of the ill fated Air India Flight flying from Canada, as we flew over a vast lake Ontario, I was glad to be on ground. It was announced that the airport was voted as the best one in the world by some authority. I was amazed to see very few planes and a deserted looking airport. It gave me a sense of deja vu. It reminded me of a thought I had when I went to Chandigarh for my IELTS test. I had imagined Canada to resemble the empty and impersonal streets and buildings of Chandigarh and my nightmares were finally confirmed. It really looked empty, spaced out and impersonal as hell. I knew my clocks were ticking for my return journey.
My new experiences continued as I passed through a sterile protocol of security and custom check by smartly dressed police personals, mostly women of different origins and men who dressed like soldiers in some PC games. I began to feel like an immigrant and was treated as one. However, I had joined a fraternity of immigrant insecurities with one of my back seat passengers, a young chap who was also suffering the same agony as I, a first time immigrant and a first time travelling to West from Faridabad. We became friends and held on to each other like lifeline with a sense of Indian brotherhood, made stronger only when we are out of our own country.
Fortunately, my friend did turn up and drove me away from the massive airport and I remained seated in her Honda, with a sense of uninspiring awe and apprehension, because I did not see a single soul walking on the roads, even after we left the Highway. From that moment till now, I have seen, eaten and mixed only with Chinese and Asian people and I have seen, perhaps only 10/15 white people here in Canada. What a turn off!
So, you can expect me back soon enough and you will not miss me much even though, I have decided to complete my paperwork and join a three day tour as a tourist before heading back to my crowded, dirty, poor but very real India. Jai Hind!
Anand.

Musings

2009-09-04T23:16:00.000-07:00

I sometimes take off, to an abstract plane of thoughts and moods,
Often tired with the burdens of man-made realities.
Seemingly in a state of trance,
I ponder the impossibles and drift in the clouds of probabilities.
A strange escape that releases me from the shackles of mortality,
Is the amalgamation of my sense and mind into a journey of sensuality.
I am truly alive, only when I forget there's still work to be done,
And instead live my moment as it exist in this state I call fantasy.

Manipur: The story so far ...

2009-08-17T01:48:00.000-07:00

"The irony of reality is such that those for whom so many articles and proclamations

are made or written for never cares to read them or follow them"

Andy E.

Imagine living in a land like ours. In a year of twelve months

and seven seasons, two things are constant in our society.

It occurs one after another irrespective of anything that is

happening in the world. They are Haraoba

(Festivals, Concerts, Shumang Leela) and

Awaba (Bandhs, Blockades, Curfews, Terrorism and

Extortion). The two companions walk hand in hand,

together in a dance of decadence and depravation,

creating an environment of hopelessness and

morbid outlook on its inhabitants.

There is no sign of any positive change or any sign

of foresight amongst those who wields money and

power, except cynicism and vengeful criticism rather

than a constructive one.

For those few who are forward looking and helpless

in the eye of such storms, they have chosen to migrate

and settle down elsewhere for good or bad.

Some of the trends and transitions taking place in

my land are astounding.

Before the advent of industrialization, our society

has embraced industrialized lifestyle. Before the

advent of proper education and pragmatic health service,

we have adopted to live like affluent middle class.

The adult inhabitants are obsessed with the prospect of

making easy money and it is no wonder that

many have been duped in this process by

ambiguous schemes, projects and diseases…

Academic is a sham because none of the institutions

are functioning, as it should be. It seems like the students

are not imparted anything in the schools.

Rather they spend months after months attending

numerous Tutorial Groups, which are apparently more

helpful and more expensive. It is such a mystery

how parents are able to afford such lifestyle,

their extravagance, which are taken as liberty by

bike riding, car crazy and mobile phone addicted

adolescents.

Competitiveness is taken for granted. An obsession

with Medical and Engineering career prevails amongst

the so-called general population whereas those who

enjoy reservation status are into competitive

examinations for administrative career.

Granted that these choices are the results of

the system in which we function where there is

absolutely no competition based on merit or integrity.

How unfortunate that Reservations, like Grants and

Loans are heavily manipulated and exploited as vote

banks in our flawed democracy.

If the bigger picture is seen, there is a growing gap

and an invisible wedge created between technical people

(who are mostly general category) and

top administrators (who are becoming predominantly

reserved category) especially in our land. This is a dichotomy

because an ideal society should be based on coordination

and co-operation, not on contradiction and complexes.

There is no limit for corrupting minds and abilities of

the inhabitants by reinforcing their lowly status. They are

subjected as historical misfits instead of encouraging

them to walk shoulder to shoulder with the rest of the

privileged group after one or two generations. It would have

been better if based on economic status rather than

a social one, which inadvertently creates psychological

complexes.

The parent seems hard hit by another obsession and

wants to shine in their offspring's glory.

Irrespective of their abilities and mental strengths,

the parent never ceases to pressure their young

ones to attain and achieve everything under the stars if

not the impossible.

Social activism guided by material gains and political

opportunities are the highlights of the day. How ironic

that despite so many grievances and

public outcry, the public continues to

remain mere pawns to manipulative

politicians and activists, and all end up

bickering for money and personal

favors when the time for choosing their

leaders come. They seem to forgive

and forget everything except the idea

of exercising their rights, sadly without duties.

Institutions and organizations, which are the

supposed to be islands of the brave

and noble, have turned into wimps who

are more scared than they care to admit.

Herein lays the paradox of our so-called

democratic institutions. They have become

biased, unreliable and mere spokesperson

of various agents who use intimidation,

sycophancy and lawlessness as tools of

manipulation and exploitation.

How Unfortunate! You imagine but I live it.

Anand E.

The story of I

2009-07-06T06:52:00.000-07:00

I work, not because I enjoy, but because it gives me a sense of identity. It defines me when introductions are necessary. It provides for me a material sense of security about future, which to most of us are uncertain and unpredictable. I envy those who enjoy their work and are successful in their profession. I consider myself a loser because I have failed to reach that level of satisfaction. I miss the contentment and the sense of achievement of those who followed their dreams and lived through it without a sense of regret.

I also know that life is too short to live with regrets and fear. So, I try to forget the unfulfilled dreams, sometimes I blame it on my bad karma, becoming fatalistic at moments of uncertainty, finding solace in the thoughts that there are worse things than not realizing a dream. I focus on the good things of my small universe, a good family, an o.k. health, and some good friends. I focus on the beautiful gift of nature that surrounds me in this small city called Imphal.

Overlooking the agony and sufferings of many people around me, I strive to survive by enjoying the beautiful things instead of harping on the sufference and evil deeds of mankind because I have very little to offer, except through my work, my public identity. In my own private domain, I survive like an inocent child who tries to enjoy each private moment in my own ways, because that's the only freedom I cherish when dreams remain mere dreams, when life remains mere process of living.

THE FESTIVAL OF KANG OR RATHYATRA IN MANIPUR

2009-06-23T07:21:00.002-07:00

The festival of Kang falls on the 24th of June for this year, 2009. Like Holi, This is another important festival of the Hindu Meiteis. All I know about Kang is that it is usually celebrated for about 7 to 10 days, depending on the auspicious nature of the calendar. It is during Kang that we get to eat lots of Khichri with Mangal Oooti and Laphu Iromba, a speciality item of the brahmins. The first day is marked by the Rathyatra, which I have painstakingly tried to show in my graphic. The Raths will be pulled by men, women and children to stop at the gates of those who offer fruits and other items as darshan to Lord Jaganath. The air is filled with the fragrance of the burning Barti which the faithfuls believe must be either 108 or 18 in number as the most auspicious number to be offered to the Lord. Very often, children are seen grabbing the fruits and other offerings after the prayers and singing Hari Sankritan. At night, one can witness Jayadep chongba and Chali by elders and young girls in Mandaps. Then, it is followed by the Khichri chaba as the concluding event for the day. On the last day, which is called "kanglen" the same pattern is followed.

Greetings from Bishnupur, Manipur.

2009-06-21T09:27:00.000-07:00

Beautiful skies of Manipur

2009-05-25T10:18:00.000-07:00

If there is one thing I have observed and fell in love with in my hometown, it is the skies of Manipur. I am fond of watching the skies of Manipur and its different moods, much akin to human moods. Since childhood, this has been one of my favourite passtime I have indulged in shamelessly, taking small pleasures in watching varied cloud formations which I always imagined to be of different shapes and forms. Today, I dedicate my space to this love of my life in few lines and the photographs I have taken in the past few years...

"Our skies are still blue when the sun shines bright,

Still Fills with glittering stars when nightime comes,

The silver moon still bright even on full moon nights,

And the glorious clouds still has the freedom to move,

Painting the skies with an artist passion,

It is indeed a rare gift to us mere mortals,

A pity, we have spoilt many a skies like ours

With greed and hands that has destroyed many a natures gift."

Andy .

Designing my new Room

2009-05-05T18:02:00.001-07:00

Designing my new Room

2009-05-05T18:02:00.000-07:00

I have been busy for the last few months doing what I like most - building, designing and decorating my new flat which is an extension from my old room. In short, its been a journey of creative rejuveneration, trying to build a room of my own choice. I hired no architect to do the feat and I supervised all the masons and the carpenters to get what I want. Its very fulfiling of course and while the interior is important, the landscape is also important. Hence, I have also been trying to decorate my surroundings by planting trees, flowers and laying paths, designing my landscape to the best of my ability and budget. There is still lot of work to be done yet but I have been able to make my lawns cleaner with the help of our workers. I have put up lamps and painted my old doors and windows. These activities have kept my creative adrenalin flowing in these times of boredom and monotonous existence.

Election Fever

2009-04-21T01:24:00.000-07:00

There are two major elections in India. One is the M.P. (Member of Parliament) Election and the other is the M.L.A.(Member of Legislative Assembly) Election. Both are conducted at different times at a gap of 4 year tenure. Both involves massive preparation of manpower and resources. Both decides the present and future of India.
21st day of April, 2009 marks a prelude to the 15th Lok Sabha Election for Inner Manipur. The outer Manipur election was held on the 16th of the same month. Tomorrow, the 22nd is the D-day when the whole of inner Manipur goes to the poll. There are 7 candidates, fighting for the single M.P. post. All the arrangements have been made and systematic work allocation have been done. Materials are distritibuted to Presiding officers (Polling officers) which are five in number (1+2+2) i.e. Presiding Officer, 2 Polling Officers, 2 Grd. 4 employees of the Government of Manipur. All we have to do is wait and see if things go smoothly and peacefully. All that we hope is that there are no repolls. "Hope!", that's what everyone feels during these times.

What was my day like?

2009-04-06T09:35:00.000-07:00

If somebody ask me, "How was your day?" I'd say that I survived. Today, there were bomb blast in Imphal, Guwahati and in our neighbouring country, Islamabad, killing hundreds of innocent people. Today, there was an earthquake in Italy, killing hundreds of people. Today, many workers of the world got laid off because of the economic meltdown. Today, I read that the arctic and antarctic icebergs would melt away within 30 years, leaving a trail of natural disasters like flooding, tsunami, earthquakes... Today, I was also told that in our society where majority of the tribals still follow the traditional ownership of land in hills, the eldest son is the sole heir of all the properties and the daughters get nothing. They just don't enjoy any economic rights unless they are charitably offered to stay with the male siblings as dependents! So, "Today" acquires a profound meaning for me these days simply because I feel like we live everyday in fear or with courage, the two spectrums of our lives, so intertwined to make us either a survivor or a loser. So, I would say that today, something is wrong with the world and some people on this planet because of their madness and destructiveness. The injustice and prejudices which some of us preach or practice today makes me feel like I am just surviving, not living in real sense. Today, I regret inhumanity and the delusion of some, who claims to be the voice of masses, irrespective of the individual qualities and freedom of choice we all must have and respect. Today, I hate the masses and any society that breeds hatred and cruelty to few individuals who are harmless. Today, I hate ideologies and political aspirations of few who claims to bear the mark of approval of the masses, when all they ever want is power and exploitation.

The Festival of Colors - HOLI!

2009-03-12T06:14:00.000-07:00

HAPPY HOLI!

It's that time of the year again. It is the month of March. It is the time of revelry and colors, a time of sighs and sounds. As I sit in my balcony writing this piece, I am surrounded by the cacophony of noises such as the drumbeats of thaabal Chongba (Moonlit dance) or some announcement over the microphones for some programs or sports. Yes, Yaoshang as it is generally known here in Manipur is the famous Holi Festival of the mainland India. It is amazing that Holi festival is celebrated with such fanfare here in Imphal unlike anywhere in the world. It is celebrated for 5 days, with much gusto and enthusiasm not seen in other parts of India. It is the most celebrated festival in Manipur.

It all began last evening with the burning of the Shang (straw shed or canopy) which signifies the beginning of this auspicious festival. Young children well attired in traditional dress slowly started visiting homes with the slogan "Nakadeng Lakchari" meaning they have come for money or charity. Every household they visit have to give them some amount of money.

On the other hand, I have already seen highways being blocked by young ladies, collecting money for thaabal chongba well in advance. Today, we were flooded by streams of visitors all asking for "nakadeng" or monetary donations. Then, bands of Holi players came to sing and dance in our courtyard. The weird thing about being a political family is that we are expected to pay much more than ordinary folks. It becomes more like an intimidation or compulsion to pay heed to all their demands which I must say is the darker side of this festival like many others in our state. A politician is expected to donate large amount for every occasion - be it festival, sports or culture, etc. It almost bothers on insanity or plain absurdity or wilful abuses of the power that the voters exercise over the lives of their representatives. This is the side I abhor about our people and our system.

Then, on the brighter side, a day is dedicated for Piskari and color, because this is the festival of colors. Boys and Girls play around with colors of different ranges. In the evenings, the girls get all worked up, dressed up and made up for the thaabal chongba or moonlit dance. Many a couple have been hit by cupids arrow especially during thaabal chongba. No wonder that thabal chongba remains the most popular and coveted dance of all dances by the youths and adolescents. The rythm and flair of some dancers are simply fascinating. Teenagers in bikes and admirers in cars drive around from one leikai (colony) to another, hunting, letching or just admiring young girls, perhaps in the hope that cupids arrow would strike them over some damsel during thaabal chongba. The humour of the circumstance is that those unfortunate guardians of the so called law and order tend to harass these "Romeos on the prowl" by frisking them or punishing them in different forms if they are caught breaking the law. It is the classic case of our times - Share your sufference with others by force if necessary!

The festival of Holi in Manipur is truly an experience worth having and it's varied dimensions also proves the eroticism and ecstasy that Hinduism or Vaishnavism profess in many subtle ways.

Hell Bent on Medieval Lifestyle

2009-02-19T08:36:00.000-08:00

"I cannot fathom the depth of human folly and misery when they forget history"

Its the year 2009. We are in the 21st Century. Or am I deluding myself? Manipur seems to be hellbent on Medieval lifestyle if some of the recent events in our society is a manifestation of our development. The Government is now recruiting Village Task Force who will guard their own villages from miscreants. Three Government Employees bludgeoned to death... Highways continue to be hazardous with extortions, kidnappings and robbery. I cannot understand how our people have become so barbaric and unethical in so many ways. Or may be, it's time we understand and remember the mistakes we have made in history.

How an officer celebrate Indian Republic Day in Imphal?

2009-01-25T09:12:00.000-08:00

Today is 25th January, 2009. It is 10.40 p.m. and just few hours away from India remembering its Republic Day. Few hours from now on, another day will dawn as one of the most auspicious day for every Indian. 26th January, 2009 will be celebrated as the Republic Day of India like every year. Or is it so for every Indian?
The big question is, " Who is every Indian?" or rather Who is a true Indian? Behind the glorious facade of India and its magnificience, its unity in diversity is being questioned in the remote areas of North East and also in the Northern tip.
For a district government officer, it acquires a whole new perspective. Every year on this day, the whole of North East insurgents declare a public bandh. As a result, for lesser souls who are not provided safety and security, the only alternative is to stay the 25th January night in the office. All the arrangements are made by each individual for their own comfort. They bring their warm clothes and other necessities to spend the night so that they are able to attend the State Function, failing which they are warned of dire consequences through various types of government orders. The celebration is another case! No civilians attend except the officials and the security people in almost all the places. The irony of the situation is such that just the day before the Republic Day, Imphal becomes like a fortress, with barricades and police frisking in almost every corner of the city. This is how we celebrate our Republic Day of India in Imphal, Manipur.

Try n Answer these, Fellow Manipuris!

2008-12-25T08:27:00.000-08:00

1. Why are majority of Meiteis fond of using their own english pronounciations and words?For e.g. "Entraance exam" for Entrance exam. Teresing for Kerosene. Colgate for Toothpaste, Surf for any detergents, ahem!

2. Why are most Manipuris obsessed with Ngari, Yongchak and Hawaizaar even though they claim to have adopted many foreign idiosyncracies?

3. Why is Imphal city adorned with partially painted, incomplete buildings with no railings?

4. Why are the roads of Manipur one of the worst in the world and why do people throw away rubbish everywhere except in dustbins?

5. What is the logic of our Traffic system, driving and parking policies?

6. Why are Manipuris sending billions of rupees out of our state to other states for the sake of education of their children?

7. What is the rationale of public bandhs, highway blockades, Burning tyres which causes immense environmental polution?

8. What makes manipuris do so well as individuals and fail as a team at global competition?

9. Why do VIP's vehicles with their escorts drive as if the devil is after them irrespective of their schedules and traffic problems?

10. Why are there overdose of Social Activism in Manipur even as they suffer from lack of any dynamic leadership?

11. Why do fellow Manipuris tend to show disregard for their own brethrens and give undue respect to outsiders or foreigners?

12. Why are local journalists so timid and scared of the outlaws and maverick law enforcers?

13. What is the meaning of "Naharol"? How are their activities associated with patriotism and martyrdom when all a common hears and experience are sheer terror, extortion, intimidation, kidnappings?

14. Why do people in uniform act as if they are dictators and rulers in a democracy?

15. Why do most VIPs travel by choppers and flights to remote areas and highways? Is it a case of "see no evil, hear no evil" or does reality bite?

16. Why do we have a long and 'difficult to remember' emergency call number, unlike '911' of Americans which even an infant can use and be helped?

17. Why do some people prefer consulting the outlaws to get justice?

18. Why do we allow people blocking highways and roads to collect money illegally? Why do people collect money for different excuses at all?

19. Is there a functioning department in full sense anywhere in Manipur?

20. Why are plain Manipuris forbidden to buy or settle in their own hills? Why don't Manipur have a common universal law for everyone?

21. Why are different religious group segregated by petty differences even though they all preach universal brotherhood, love and peace?

22. Why are affluent Manipuris adopting extravagant wedding traditions of the outsiders and more pathetically, why are poor trying to copy the rich? Why do we have such complexes about what we really are?

23. Why do we have no dignity of labour? Why do we have such disgusting work culture?

24.Why do school dropouts mostly organize Student Organizations and gets involved in non-education matters?

25. Why do we still use derogatory terms amongst our own country cousins?

26. Why do we elect criminals and corrupt leaders?

27. Why do voters get so financially greedy before and during election? Why do they harass politicians with monetary demands for various non-issues like donations for festivities, charity, personal gains?

28. How is our State a 'dry' state when alcohol is easily available everywhere? Will it not be better to come out with the truth and accept our weaknesses rather than forcing people to hide under a garb of hypocrisy?

29. What will happen to all the schoolchildren of the mushrooming schools in Imphal and other parts when there is no employment opportunities even for the qualified lots at the present scenario?

30. What is freedom?

2008-12-21T09:12:00.000-08:00

Seasons Greetings E-Cards by Anand E

2008-12-21T09:00:00.000-08:00

As the season arrives for Wishing good things to loved ones, I now dedicate these pictures to those I have loved and who have loved me for who I am. I consider myself blessed for having great friends who have been kind and generous to me all these years. All I can say is "Thank You."

Shillong-The Rock Capital of India!

2008-12-17T23:03:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys, I am back again after a much deserving short holiday to Shillong-"The Rock Capital of India." So said, Firehouse and Whitelion... That's right. I was there when the two great Rock Bands of yesteryears came and performed at the Polo stadium on the 13th Dec. I went for the Rock Show and ended the night with dance at a night club called the Tango. I was with a couple of friends and man, what a night!
For those who are interested, A visit to Cherapunji, once the world renowned place for heaviest rainfall is a must. The place aint that great but the drive is a cool one. You can see Bangladesh from the great plateau with snake-like riverines and plains. Another visit worth going is Elephant Falls.

Gift of my land

2008-11-18T06:36:00.000-08:00

Gold field

2008-11-18T06:30:00.000-08:00

Time of my life

2008-11-18T06:04:00.000-08:00

I have just realized that the best place to die is my birth place because it makes me feel like I have completed a circle and when I die, a new circle of life will begin. Everyday we live a little and we die a little. There is no going back except memories. All the journey that I have taken and the places I have visited in my lifetime will remain as memories. The people I have met, befriended or observed have made different impressions, some for a momentary span of time while some may last a lifetime. This moment I live is all I have, this breathe I take is all I care about. I live because I am blessed.

Being Single

2008-10-27T19:35:00.000-07:00

What is the big deal about getting married or not?

Having watched "Sex and the city" and thanks to the gigantic resources of media and communication available today, I am quite baffled about why there is still a stigma attached to the choice of staying "Single" in many societies. While there are more important and pending issues like global warming, population explosion and possibilities of ETs in outer space, Single man and woman are still reminded again and again to get married or it will be too late... Rather sounding like an ominous doomsday prediction than a good advice, Single man and Single woman continues to suffer the agony of embarassment, public humiliation and butt of jokes amongst the married lots!

Perhaps it is human ego that compels a society to accept established principles meant to ensure continuity of our breed through procreation, using religion, society and tradition as a compelling force. However, Any couple can procreate if it is only for extension of our ego or to create generations. We seem to forget that our planet is already on the verge of breakdown from being overused and abused, thanks to the infinite greed and indifference of mankind. It is not quantity that is in shortage here, rather, it is quality of life that is missing here!

Have you ever thought that "Being Single" can mean so much good for the mankind?

These dying species may have something in common. While some of us are looking for a quality life, searching for true love or something to fulfil them, Some of us may be just content or discontent with our lives. Sounds human? Yes, they are human after all and like it or not, Single man and Single woman will continue to co-exist with fellow earthlings by virtue of their own choice or circumstances. We must not forget that they are doing a great favour to the overcrowded earth. If we chose to remain single and free, bereft of any ego extension or procreation, it is a good deed done to preserve the sanctity of marriage without love or trust. Something that promiscuous hollywood celebs or any hypocrites should do than make a travesty of a holy alliance like marriage!

Andy

FatehpurSikri Agra moments

2008-10-02T06:53:00.000-07:00

Imphal Suburbia in Winter chills done in photoshop

2008-10-02T06:47:00.000-07:00

This is where I live and work

2008-10-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

Time I tell something about the state of affairs in my hometown and my life. It's October again which means I will be getting some holidays like Gandhi Jayanti, Durga Puja, etc. I am not too thrilled though because I ain't getting any long break from my boring schedule of attending my office. The fact is that I am trying very hard to remain focussed this time.

Imphal is in such a mess. The roads are terrible as everything is broken, supposedly for reconstruction! Then, there is so much corruption in every walk of life. The irony is that even as the Govt. seems to be recruiting only police forces, and even if our state resembles a police state, the crimes remain unabated and laymen continues to suffer from harassment by both security forces and the outlaws. The public continues to act like zombies who have no trust in either govt. or law enforcer whom they see as hands in gloves with the outlaws. There is no trust and there is no hope and I am baffled by the scepticism that affects and paralyse each individual. Extortion is universally acceptable in our society. Be it a group of students blocking highways to collect money or some organizations using intimidation for some cause, be it some members collecting donations, be it outlaws using threats and intimidation in the form of phone calls, letters, grenades, gunshots and most strange of all is the audacity of law enforcers extorting money in the form of ambiguous taxes etc. My state is surely a failed state and I am a part of this failed entity. I am ashamed and guilty as everyone for not being brave enough to fight and overcome this state of affairs. This is where I live and work.

For every ending there is a beginning

2008-07-22T17:40:00.000-07:00

It is the 4th month of our trainig at NIFM and I am sad to leave this place finally. I must be the only one in our group that feels like this because most of my collegues have been missing home and their home cooked food. Not so for me because I have never missed home cooked food with so many varieties available here in Delhi. For God's sakes, this is Delhi - the food capital of India!
Our training was a fruitful experience as I spoke on our valediction day and I believe that this experience will be useful in future as an administrator or even for personal finance.
The best highlights were of course the following: Our group dominated the Annual Sports Meet and captured the Director's cup. Then, there was our trip to different places in Delhi and outside Delhi. Our trip to Chandigarh, Bakra Dam and Shimla was like a long drive but we enjoyed it anyways. It was followed by our trip to Jaipur and Agra which turned out really good. All of us will not forget our trip to Chokidani and the dances that followed huh!
Back in NIFM, our Exams and presentation turned out to be quite ok ( inspite of the paranoia amongst our group!) and it was followed by a trip to Rashtrapati Bhavan, where we saw amazing museum and was offered tea with fresh snacks. It was indeed a grand finale to our stay at NIFM. The last night was not even spared when we were given a farewell dinner and a dance followed in which I really sweated it out...ha, ha,ha!
That's all for now. But, before I conclude this chapter, I must also remind myself that bigger challenges awaits us in Imphal and a new beginning in our regular posts. A sad farewell was also organised in which we gave a token of love to our ex CS, who has left Manipur Govt. and joined Home Min. in Centre.

NIFM Fundas

2008-04-16T09:05:00.000-07:00

WELL... Thanks to the inevitable conditions that compelled our govt. to send us here in the NIFM that our group of dis-satisfied"" lot got to enjoy what our predecessors couldn't. What is that suppose to be anyways??? We've been promised 5 laptops for performance and we thank our senior batches for inspiring our inspirer"" to do right what was done wrong in the past.. ha ha! We give full credit to the HIGH MORAL n EXCELLENT PERFORMANCE(ahem!) of the first batches though we also found out that what you hear is not always what actually happens or should I say, one has to remain objective about everything you hear...
The highlight of our first meeting with a VIP will be updated later, I promise. After all, living and walking in the corridors of power we call Delhi is a chance we should rarely miss out. We have even decided to follow our predecessors suit of forming Committees, though I must admit that the models are lacking in looks and conduct, especially for our ramp shows (simpletons as we are, we lack the infamous attitude of the wannabe models that the previous lot had in plenty). Beside the sporting fancy of the healthy Jr. MCS, after-dinner evening walks are getting more and more...(Leaving it to your imagination and fantasies). That's all for today,n I assure you that we are uploading our simpleton looks and some cool photographs of wild birds and bees in the background. Ta, Ta.

Guwahati - A surprise trip!

2008-04-01T07:29:00.000-07:00

Guwahati - Always understated...
Hi, I was in Guwahati recently during the Holi- The festival of Colors! No, it wasn't a holiday break, nor was it to celebrate. I was there with my parents for medical reasons. It was kinda hectic but something good came out of it. We managed to enjoy Guwahati for the first time, even though we have been there many times.
It's a kinda weird place which is normally understated by virtue of being in the N-East India, but
it is turning into one Big Metropolitan city in the the remote N-East India. I could see so many changes in the last few years in the form of Big Shopping Malls, Big apartments, Big overbridges...
The folks celebrated holi in all its glory and because I could not go to Shillong, we managed to act like tourist this time and visited good eat out places and Kamakhya temple. I took some great photos too! Hop you like them...

Only the good die young...

2008-02-23T05:04:00.001-08:00

Its been a sad week for me. I lost one of my nephews in a freak accident of rip tides in one of the islands of Pondicherry. He did not die alone as I have been told. He died trying to save his compatriot friend who drowned along with him. He was an enginnering student also. What is so heartbreaking is that David, who was my long parted nephew was in his final year of BA Economics and one of the brightest in his class. He was planning to try for London school of economics and he had a great future. I don't understand the working of the universe or nature and I don't have any problem in dealing with the abstracts, but I get so depressed and feel that sometimes, life can be so unfair...

What's the hurry?

2007-07-04T20:37:00.000-07:00

An incredible thing about living in city is that everyone seems to be in a hurry. I come from a small valley and for reasons best known to myself, I seem to be caught in a time warp. While friends and ex-colleagues seems to be doing better by the minute, I am still the same ol' confused self. On second thought, it was this dreamy and often lethargic universe of mine that must have hampered my material growth.
Is it ego that drives us humans to a never ending circle of pursuit for the elusive thing called contentment? I often wonder what it would be like to just give up everything and give in to my deepest desires. Yet, something prevents me from doing something so unconventional and the thought of its repercussion scares the hell out of me. I am a confused soul. But am I the only one? My public school upbringing and upper middle class background constantly prey on my conscience, even making me miserable at the futility of this race for privilege, prestige and a status we so guard, like a last straw to a drowning man! That is why, I guess I am here in a place, not of my chosing but a victim of circumstances. A lame excuse I know but I think I am a great loser nevertheless. In this hurried world of the go-getters, I am perhaps one of those endangered species of mankind who still yearn for inner peace and little comfort I can find by following a dream - a dream to travel the world, a dream to find a compatible soul.

Nirvana in a blue-line bus

2007-05-26T01:03:00.000-07:00

“If we follow our dreams…
And if we cannot find them, we may always find something worth more than a dream.”

“A hope for better things may be the thought that God perhaps has a bigger plan for me at the end of the tunnel.”
Andye

Nirvana in a blue-line bus

The bus ride from Maharani Bagh to Noida is an experience worth sharing. I know of two buses that reaches me to my office from underneath the Foot bridge of Maharani Bagh. They are Bus number 492 and the other one has Dholakuan written on its number plate on top. It is strange that I never care to remember the number of the second bus. This one goes across a toll bridge and saves a lot of time. But alas, it is so crowded and stuffed to the brim that commuters are often seen hanging out of the doors. I often end up waiting for the other bus, even knowing that it makes only a slight difference.

Bus 492 is more in number and so does its stops too. It moves across the old Yamuna Bridge and it takes a longer route. But what is so amazing is that I never seem to get a seat even on a rainy day and I end up standing most often than not, getting pushed, abused and jostled from back and sides. My thoughts and musings are even worse because I have nobody to talk to and I must bear the agony of sweat, odor and unnecessary aggressors, the quintessential conductors -They, who shouts and jostles the most, they who urges and pushes the passengers to get in and out!

What is so frustrating and comic is their infinite greed to take in as many passengers as they can. The one in front says to get behind; the one behind says to get in front! I prefer somewhere in the middle, for then I can ignore their ridiculous commands.

The sweltering heat of Delhi gives me little comfort and it all turns into a surreal experience. One, that I must keep tucked up in some part of my memory. It will be something worth remembering, when at the end of it all, to celebrate life for nothing and anything. I see my traveling companions for what they are and what they live for.

I guess they all live for tomorrow, with hopes and dreams to get out of the madding crowd, to own a car and a good income. Some of them surely work for their family and some of them for better life. Each of them think, reminisce and ponder as they travel, each of them stumble and fight to keep their hands and feet on moving ground. Each faces tell a story, a story of struggle and the qualities of being born an ordinary Indian. I know I am just a face in the crowd but I know I that I am a part all that they represent.