The tough WOMB

A very usual day in one of the villages of Srinivasapura taluk in Kolar district; 'she' was happily moving along the walk-path of her village's highway, which connected itself to the district headquarters further ahead. It has been her daily chore to set out for a casual walk once in the morning and again in the evening, since she was declared pregnant. At least one family member would accompany her every single time she set herself out since then. They were all excited for the fact that she was carrying her first ever child in her 'womb', so she was.

It was a well-off family, the head of which was an ex Zilla Panchayat President. She had no real pressure on herself in any aspect, unlike many others of her kind in the village. The only challenge for her was to safeguard her young little one who was gradually growing within her, to birth. They never seemed to have bothered whether it would be a 'boy' or a 'girl'; all they honestly wanted was to see her family tree grow, 'lucky, I am..' she thought. She was right!

'She looks near to term..?' asked a passing by villager. 'Yes, she is.. expected anytime in a week or so..' said her family member. Her pulse gained pace, without her knowledge. She was excited, knowing that 'the day' which would make a huge difference in her life was not too far. The little one kicked from inside in response to her excitement, they both already had the 'chemistry' set in. While subconsciously she moved a little away making way for the moving tractor, something banged her belly really hard.. before one could realize what was happening around, she was found deep in the nearby dug trench being unable to make a move. It took a while for her family member to recover from the incidental shock, who at once took her out with the help of others around. 'Are you fine??.. Nothing happened to you right??.. Does it pain.. ' - she could hardly respond to those questions shot at once.. pain from within the womb was unbearable until she lost conscious.

While I washed my hands coming out of the small animal OT following a surgery, my eyes naturally stared at the wall clock. It easily stuck the half past twelve mark; making me recall what my wife had packed for lunch today.. with love, obviously. A pregnant sheep walking with lot of pain into the OPD ward interrupted my preparedness for lunch. I walked closer..

"What is the problem?" asked our Professor.
"She is pregnant, almost term. Met with an accident.. a tractor banged her and she is in immense pain since then" replied the accompanying owner.
"When did this happen?"
"Yesterday morning.."
"Oh! What made you take so long in seeking medical care?"
"We are coming from a far off place, near Srinivasapura.."

The severity of the accident was too much, the abdominal muscles seemed to have given away and some parts of the foetus were pressing out on the skin at belly. The animal experienced severe pain on palpation. No parts of the lamb were felt in the birth canal, which ruled out the possibilities of going in for an assisted delivery. An ultrasound scan couldn't really help us to know whether the lamb was still alive inside; we knew that it would get too late if going for a detailed investigation. A word was soon given to get the OT prepared for surgery.

"Are you sure she is almost term?" I asked.
"Yes, she is.." owner replied.
It was my responsibility to make it clear to the owner that 'all is not well'. I continued.
"We are not sure if the lamb is alive inside. But still, we have no other way than going in for an elective c-section"
"No problem.. she is one among our family members. She has been so good to gain all our love and affection. No matter the lamb is alive or not, we want to get her well soon.."
"Seeing her condition, it is doubtful that she will eventually recover after surgery. The condition is really worse.." - I was in a hurry to convey the message, since it was all set for surgery in OT.
"Please try your possible best sir.. rest is left to the almighty.." owner's words were really touching.
"Sure, we will.."

While wearing the gloves, I looked in to her eyes. She found it hard even to blink her eyelids, could feel the pinch of immense pain she was undergoing for so long a time. Whether it really was or it did seemed so to me - her eyes were full with tears of pain. She closed her eyes more than she kept it open."Ready.." - signal from anesthetist brought me back to the real world. It took very less time to incise the skin; muscle layers had all given away as expected. Contusions made the bulk of intact muscle layers, they were literally crushed in to pieces. Later, it would definitely pose a real challenge to get them opposed and close. To our surprise, the uterus had no injury whatsoever! Not a small tear or scratch! It was strong enough bearing all the physical damage to save the life within!! I incised the uterus and took out the lamb. It was alive!! We couldn't believe this.. thanks to 'Nature' for making such a safe and tough womb!! Rest was all more tougher.. it was practically impossible to end the reconstructive surgery in a positive note. While I came out of the OT, the healthy active lamb brought a smile on my worried face..

out of the tough womb..

Handing over the discharge summary to the owner, he was informed that the chances of sheep recovering from surgery was highly questionable. With a small hope of good, the owner shifted the sheep to the boot space of his vehicle.

The wall clock ran a few minutes past three.. it was only then I remembered my forgotten lunch. "It's well past lunch time.." my wife seemed yelling at me. "Oh!!..", suddenly it stuck my mind that none of us had even bothered to show the lamb to his mother.. how could we be so mean?! By the time I rushed to the front desk, their vehicle was passing out of the hospital gate..

For whom the poor mother had to suffer so long and saved by sacrificing her own life, I strongly doubt if she could even get a chance to have him looked at; won't the brave mom curse us for this?? Sigh..

Beginning of my Fatherhood..

"When are we planning for a baby?"
"Should we?.. so early??"
Guess, my (bad?) habit of answering a question with another question is probably what my wife hates most. She continued..
"Enough, can't take it anymore.. better you face everyone yourself" - she looked annoyed.
"Let them ask me, I will answer myself.." - somehow, I wasn't dare enough to frame yet another question.
"It's been year-and-a-half we are married, are we growing younger anyways?.."
"uummmm.. no.., but.. we still have enough time.., isn't it?"

In the history of over 11 years of our relationship, this was the only thing about which me and my wife strongly disagreed upon - "having a baby". As it would have happened with any other married couple, we both soon had to face the undue pressure of being "parents". Though she looked a lot eager to be a "mom", I was too lazy and lethargic as usual.

"When are you both going to give us some good news?" - it was such an embarrassment when I was asked this by my wife's aunt in one of the family gathering.. didn't know what to answer! My wife seemed to be the most happiest person on earth that very moment, she was laughing mouthful. Realizing the fact what my brave wife was going through all past days, I quickly decided what to do next. Following a couple of fertile days I had marked for us, she only managed to have a period and missed the rest. When the hCG test done at home ran positive, we finally had a hint of the "good news"!!. I could no more be the same old "lazy boy".. our Gynecologist had confirmed the "good news" and certified it with a big list of precautions to my wife and responsibilities for myself.

"What are you going to present me for our second wedding anniversary?" asked my wife.
"Do we really need anything more?.." I said with a smile.
This time, my question as an answer to her question had little adverse effects; she very well understood what was intended. Following months of pregnancy were the most memorable days of life with lots of happenings around - scheduling appointments with the Gynecologist, waiting long hours for consultation, the curiosity of looking at our child through ultrasound while it slowly crept along it's crucial weeks of prenatal life, the joy of looking into the normal-read medical reports, the responsibility of being a sensible hubby, sharing few of her routine household chores, a little counseling done often to ease worries off and make her strong.. everything seemed like a fairy tale of a sweet dream!

It was on 29th June, the doctor advised to get my wife admitted for further medical care following frequent pain and discharge. Continuous fetal Non-Stress Test (NST) monitoring was normal throughout 30th June while she was in the labor ward. With no progressive signs of delivery, doctor recommended to wait until the next day for normal delivery to happen. It was at around half past 12 noon on 01st July, NST started recording an alarming drop in the fetal heart rate. Looking at the term scan report, doctor said "There might probably be something obstructing head to descend down and the baby seems to be in stress. It is better I take her in..". The sentence of term scan report "cord around the neck observed at the time of scanning" which I had purposefully ignored when my wife asked about it looking at the report a month ago was proved detrimental.

"Should I be operated now?"
"hmmmm.. baby seems to be stressed out. NST has now come down to 125, what was in the range of 145 earlier. Don't worry, C-section would be less painful compared to the normal labor pain. You will be put under anesthesia and by the time you open eyes, baby will be beside you" - even though I wasn't completely right, only intention was to ease my wife through her C-section. Hearing to those words and having known the stressed condition of the baby within, (looking as brave as ever) she too agreed.

"If you don't faint, please come to OT" said the doctor looking at me, this was what my wife also probably wanted. No matter I have been used to sight blood and also been regularly performing C-sections in animals myself, it shall never be easy to see the raw flesh and fresh blood of my loved one. Without much delay, I pulled on the pink gown and stepped in to OT. The anesthesiologist had done his job by then, but it was only the regional anesthesia - my wife was very well aware of the happenings around. Thanks to the head cap and face mask, which came to my rescue to avoid emotions on my face being directly seen by my wife. As the surgeon pierced through the different layers from skin into the abdominal cavity, I struggled to hold my nerves tight. While the suction pump cleared all the oozing out blood from the surgical site, baby was taken out with the umbilical cord around its neck. A few seconds later, the first cry of our baby brought a smile on my wife's face and a much awaited relief in me.

"Note the time of birth.." said the anesthesiologist to me. All my belongings were dropped outside the OT and the wall clock struck 2pm. I stood looking at the clock. "See whether you got a baby boy or girl.." - said the nurse. All I wanted was healthy mother and a healthy baby, no matter boy or a girl; reluctantly moved a bit towards the pediatrician who was passing the nasal tube to evacuate the mucus from the baby, I could see our tiny "daughter" crying aloud. "Don't you congratulate your wife?" asked the surgeon. Oh! yes.. had totally forgot to wish her.. I held her hand and gently pressed saying "daughter.." - am sure she did pick the pleasure within me as she was very well aware that I always preferred a daughter over son.

our daughter, on day two

Mom, daughter & dad are all fine now. Somewhere in May 2012, while I wrote a post "mom n me.." on this Blog (please read it again, it might just take a few minutes), it was mere fiction; and never was aware that almost the same thing would happen in my life a year later. Having such a lovely beginning to my fatherhood, we parents now have to shoulder the huge responsibility of making life of our daughter more prettier and most importantly, the responsibility of making her a beautiful human being.

Premarital Sex - new form of Legal Marriage

A couple of days ago, hon'ble Chief Minister of Karnataka Sri. Siddaramaiah had expressed inclination towards cutting down marriage expenses; and a day later, the Madras High Court finds an appropriate solution for this - 'Premarital Sex'. Can it get any simpler, I strongly doubt.

If any unmarried couple of the right legal age 'indulge in sexual gratification', this will be considered a valid marriage and they could be termed 'husband and wife'.
- Madras High Court

Image Courtesy: Ronke Alao; Concept: Prashanth

It's important to mark the Day 17th June 2013, when Justice C. S. Karnan passed an order to modify the judgement given by the Coimbatore family court in maintenance case of a couple and said if a boy is 21 and girl 18, they shall acquire the 'freedom of choice' guaranteed by the Constitution of India. Does the so-called 'freedom of choice' meant 'premarital sex'? definitely not, am sure.

Were you wondering how to honor premarital sex a legal marital status? - 'Either party to a relationship could approach the Family Court for a declaration of marital status by supplying documentary proof for a sexual relationship' the Court opined. That's fine, but, what would possibly make a 'documentary proof' for 'sexual relationship'? If at all this was slightly elaborated upon, it would have been much more easier to 'make marriages happen' in the near future.

'On declaration of marital status for a sexual relationship, a woman could establish herself as the man's wife in Government Records and all Legal rights applicable to normal wedded couples will also be applicable' the Court added. When lawyers are smart enough to utilize the smallest loopholes in the Law and uphold injustice, Justice C. S. Karnan with this judgement has kept a trench dug wide open; it shall not be of any difficulty to seek (in)justice based on this 'controversial judgement'.

The Hindu, India Times, CNN-IBN India, DNA, Sify and others reported this 'historical' judgement online and succeeded in pushing up their page rankings to the top on Google for a transitory period of time to the key word 'premarital sex'. 'If after having sexual relationship the couple decided to separate, the husband could not marry without getting a divorce from the wife' - this judgement, however, has given a new twist to the concept of 'premarital sex', which will soon make the 'curse' a 'boon'.

The Court also said 'Marriage formalities as per various religious customs such as tying of mangalasutra, exchange of garlands, exchange of rings or registering of a marriage were only to comply with religious customs for the satisfaction of society'. This, simply makes the existing deep-rooted solid foundation of Hinduism/Christianism to give way and completely collapse it's strongly built social architecture in India. If slogans of boycott are heard against this, surprise not!

In the past, marriages were said to be made in heaven; but in future, marriages shall be made on beds too..

Whr ru, Mr. Politician and Party??

If you are a regular driver in Bangalore, am sure by now you are made 'Christopher Columbus' - for exploring all possible shortcuts to commute across; being born & brought up here in Bangalore, am no different. To save a few minutes while driving every morning to College, I take this street connecting Srinigar to Gavipuram (area where the well-known Sri Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple is located). Gavipuram is also called as Kempegowda Nagar and the street am talking about ends in front of the Kempegowda Swimming Pool entrance.

On 31st May 2013, Friday morning, it was yet another drive-away for me in this congested-yet-convenient street on my way to College. Usually no thing off-the-road succeeds to drag my attention while driving; it was an unusual thing that caught my sight instantly at the end of the street - a blocked manhole, which had no other go than overflowing its content along the street walk path. I slowed down a bit to see where it ended up flowing - after a course of about 20-25 meters, the gushing filth found its way into a nearby road-side channel - thanks to Newton & Gravity!

(click image to enlarge)

The scene got no better the next day - 01st Jun; a day after - 02nd Jun; later on 03rd Jun. Today being day five since this was happening, I stopped by. As there was a huge building coming up adjacent and a pretty high compound wall of a well-built apartment on the other side, none other than few pedestrians were found around to talk to. Just because of the fact that the residents are a few handsome yards away, it was totally unfair to leave this blocked manhole unattended even after five days. It would be a shock if the residents haven't reported this to BWSSB yet and wouldn't be a surprise if the driver of BWSSB Kambi Truck (which cleans the clogged manhole) retired from his service on 31st May 2013.

Just a month ago almost all political leaders contesting for the then Karnataka Assembly Elections, 2013 & party were busy moving along this very street, literally 'begging' for votes from the residents of Ward No. 155, Hanumanthanagar. Many a times, election canvass was a major threat to the regular commuters on-road. Every contestant promised of making our 'dwelling' a 'fancy heaven on earth', which practically could be a day-dream for many years to come by. Youth, getting involved in active politics was the highlight of this assembly elections in the Constituency. THE ANSWER TO BAD POLITICS IS GOOD POLITICS, NOT NO POLITICS - agreed; agreed. But, good politics should definitely not end with elections, right? When leaders can successfully mobilize their volunteers for canvassing during elections, why not actively mobilize them to periodically patrol around the constituency to address the grievances of general public even after elections??

Dengue, this season, has slowly been able to penalize many of their invaluable lives; Hon'ble Chief Minister is in serious search of ways to supply cheap liquor to the poor; the elected MLAs are too busy demolishing some interior walls of Vidhanasoudha to make their stay a comfortable & memorable one and officials have a lot of other social services to 'deal' with (like the recent KPSC recruitment racket). In midst of all these - pity the public, please..

Today's Technology - Google Nose & Gmail Blue!

Google, today has announced two of it's latest technologies/services - for the 'DAY'.


Google NOSE
Web: www.google.com/nose

Smelling is Believing.. even on Google!

YouTube video regarding Google Nose is interesting:

Gmail BLUE
Web: www.gmail.com/blue

Jonathan Zames, Project Manager at Google (??) posted about Gmail Blue in the official Gmail Blog.
YouTube video about Gmail Blue:

If we would want to try Google Nose - it might smell a little fishy; and Gmail Blue - might bring on blues.

The real fact is that - Gmail was launched on April 1, 2004. Happy Birthday Gmail!!

Bird Flu hits Bangalore

Still hung with the 'so good' taste of hot & crispy boneless bucketful you ate at the nearest KFC restaurant yesterday? Well then, don't fear on seeing this post; "People need not panic as the influenza has not spread as of now" says Mr. Revu Naik Belamagi, the Minister for Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, Govt. of Karnataka.

Image Courtesy: The Telegraph

High Security Animal Disease Laboratory at Bhopal confirmed that the blood samples of Turkeys drawn from Central Poultry Development Organization & Training Institute, Hesaraghatta, Bangalore were tested positive for Avian Influenza (H5N1) virus, following death of many turkey birds since early this October. Immediate to the report from Bhopal, all turkey birds were culled & safely disposed; a 10Km radius area around Hesaraghatta was declared 'Alert Zone'; sale of poultry meat & eggs was prohibited and movement of all poultry & its products from and into the alert zone was also banned.

A short personal interruption; I had earlier drafted a detailed writeup to publish, for this being my 100th Blog post, which was then edited to fit well within a paragraph in view of Social Awareness gaining importance. Even now, am finding it hard to accept the fact that I somehow managed to creep across the milestone, which should sincerely be attributed to all my readers for their constant support and encouragement. In our recent conversation, Dr. T. S. Ramananda who is a well-known writer and one of my role models suggested me that I try to publish a Book since this Blog is reaching a limited audience. Following his thought & this 100th post, am seriously thinking to bring out a compilation of some selected posts from this Blog of mine in the form of a Book. Hoping for the possible best, I shall soon consult my personal sponsor regarding this - my Wife :o)

Rapid Response Teams consisting of Veterinarians, Para-vets & supporting staff have been already formed to tackle the present Avian Influenza (commonly called as Bird Flu) chaos and also to take up further investigations, followed by appropriate measures to cull infected birds and dispose them off safely; thus checking further infections. As in this case, professional hazards have always been a challenge to Veterinarians and Para-vets, who deserve all the credit for keeping the situation under control. Appropriate services are also being extended by officials and staff from the Department of Health, Police & BBMP in this regard.

Since its first occurrence in humans in 1997, AI (H5N1) virus has been of utmost importance worldwide for it being the most pathogenic strain of its group and its ability of undergoing mutation to infect humans as well. Typical bird flu symptoms in humans include cough, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, fever, headache, runny nose, sore throat & muscle aches. Hundreds of humans, mostly farmers, farm women and those working with poultry have fallen sick of Avian Influenza and statistics reveal that up to 60% of those who became ill have died. 'The Telegraph' reported that Indonesia has been the nation hardest-hit by bird flu, with 150 deaths reported between 2003 and 2011. However, solace is the fact that there are no deaths reported due to bird flu since beginning of this year in the Country.

Basically, Indian food habits are said to destroy most of the food-borne infections; following the thorough cooking at constantly higher temperatures. Said this, can we still continue eating poultry meat & eggs? Is it 'unsafe' to consume chicken & eggs from the commercial eateries? - Finding an answer to these questions for now is not all that easy. 'Once Saved Always Saved' concept might tend to keep us away; but the yummy McEgg Burger is definitely too much a temptation!!

Hesaraghatta in Bangalore has been known for its richest biodiversity across the Country; for it being the site of many significant and advanced animal husbandry activities from ages. It was a nice place of weekend hangouts with kids for Bangaloreans, where they could enjoy the beauty of nature to its fullest. But not for now; it would be better to keep away from places in and around Hesaraghatta - One, not to get ourselves infected and Two, not to facilitate the spread of infection beyond the nucleus of alert zone.

days with Dengue..

"Excluding the fact that you have been tested positive for Dengue, do you have any other health issues?"

This question from Dr. Gopala Swamy H. C., to me, was a very tough one to take up. I think this is one thing that makes some people great - 'handling extremely serious things literally lighter'. At that moment, it really took a lot from me just to think about anything other than Dengue, for which I was declared positive.

"As you know, there is no treatment for any Viral infection; so is with Dengue Fever. Only way is to treat it symptomatically and avoid any further complications. It is a self-limiting disease" he continued, after picking the glimpse that I was taking a while to get tuned to his tempo.

"aaammmm.." following a gush of fresh oxygenated blood to my gray matter, I replied "Am unable to digest anything I eat.. everything just gets vomited".

"Do you have a history of Gastritis?".

"Yes, I do; a severe form of it though" - while I said this, it made me remember 'All Good Things Come With A Price'; a couple of years ago, Marriage came to me with Gastritis.

"Fine, lets stop your Antibiotics; will put you on Acera-D, which will act to reduce instances of Gastritis; Immunace Forte, which is just a vitalizer; and if you continue to record temperature, take Febrex 650mg tid. Drop by the Lab to let them draw your blood sample again and see you tomorrow morning along with the Report" - he handed over the prescription to me with a smile, which made me realize that every minute of his does count.

"Okay; Thank you Sir.." I slowly made my way towards the Lab.

It was a fortnight ago, on a lovely Sunday in a birthday party, I started feeling all the 206 bones and over 650 muscles in my body aching together; which wasn't very usual, I knew. A dose of Paracetamol and Diclofenac only could give temporary relief; but later that night I was all feverish with severe head-body aches, which made me almost shiver to death. Next day morning, I struggled to hold my balance and gait, walking to the Doctor next door; who straightaway put me on Cipro, which never gained me independence from illness while the Country witnessed yet another Independence Day. With constant fever ranging between 102 to 103^oF with unbearable aches all over, I had no other go than paying a visit to a nearby Multispecialty Hospital.

When it all just ended with another prescription for a higher Antibiotic, I couldn't keep any mum - "Sir.. could we go in and have the complete blood picture looked at?". "It might be too early to look into it but anyways, we shall.." said the Doctor. My suspicion proved true; the Platelet and Total Count were deep down the normal range! Without my consent, they immediately drew my blood sample for the Dengue NS1 Antigen Test; the assay ran positive. "You need to get hospitalized without any delay, we got to start off with Platelet Transfusion" Doctor said. It was then my Dad and Sister went to the Family Physician for a second opinion, who referred me to Dr. Gopala Swamy.

Next day morning, soon as I received the report from Lab, wound was seared with hot iron; the Platelet count had gone further down.

I knew Dr. Swamy was playing a mind game while he said "No worries, we shall somehow bring up the Platelet count".

"Sir, is it this the right time for Platelet Transfusion?", I was sounding all worried.

"Don't think so. I have seen patients recovering gradually with a Platelet count as low as 50 thousand; yours is in the 1 lakh range. Hospitalization and Platelet Transfusion is recommended only if your count drops down to 30 thousand and below. Until then be happy at home, take complete rest and try to eat well. Will put you on few shots of Steroid, which I have seen to improve Platelets; If someone asks you if Steroids are the treatment for Dengue Fever? NO. But, it works; how?  don't know", his confidence was backed up by huge experience.

Soon I was in the Emergency Ward for the first Steroid shot and rest of them were in queue to be shot into me by my Sister at home; this is why I feel one shouldn't have a Doctor sib.

I went on to find out what possibly would have gifted me this viral infection; the culprit was none other than the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti. It was a relief to know that Dengue could spread only by the bite of a vector Aedes; pretty sure I wouldn't be spreading infection to others since hundreds of mosquitoes were clapped to death during my 'NO AEDES' campaign and it was well over seven initial days of infection, during which period one can possibly be a potential source of infection to fellow humans through bite of an Aedes. But there always was the danger of internal hemorrhage due to low Platelet count, leading to Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever or Dengue Shock, which could possibly be lethal.

Following appropriate medical attention by Sister, continuous prayers of my Parents and unconditional care from my Wife, I started improving and my Platelet count was ticking up in the next five days. It was only then I gained some confidence and strength within to fight out Dengue. I was somehow lucky enough not to end up with severe complications of Dengue Fever. Today’s blood picture showed my Platelet count well up in the normal range, a good sign for sure.

"My next post would definitely be about 1947 - The Vegetarian Restaurant" was what I told my friends while having lunch there during our last meet. Am sure Raju & Vivek, who were expecting something from me about '1947' in this Blog would be taken by surprise on reading what really followed. It's been a month I went on leave at work, huge responsibility resting on me in that front as well. While many of my contacts are wondering into which Shell I managed to creep in lately, I slowly and steadily am fighting and counting off my days with Dengue..

mom n me..

In recent years, the rate at which Caesarean Section is performed during child birth has risen; up to a record level of nearly the second quartile - (Q₂).

Image by Google

Mom: Dear.. you seem to have grown 'silent' lately..?
Child-in-Womb: Not really maa..

(long pause)

How long is it from now till I be born?

Need not wait for too long.. it's almost full term & you soon would be in the external world.. to be born is your preference alone

There is only one reason I still would love that happen..

One reason..?

Yea.. want to see my 'Dad'!

Oh dear! Hes been eagerly waiting for you & sure you are blessed with the best ever 'Dad'..

Am I.., mom??

Yes you are, my child..

(silence)

Are you sleepy?

Naa.. I prefer not to; want to live this phase of my life to its fullest

That's my wish too.. (gently pats the baby beneath her womb).. you definitely will get to live the rest of your life to it's fullest.. that's our responsibility, anyways

I fear.. may not

What on the earth made you think so?

I see your dreams are very often so scary..

Common.. most of my dreams are no better than just imagination!

Imagination or anticipation.. dreams might lie but not your heart.. I easily read it beat of fear!

(silence)

How do I figure out my gender, mom?

Why should you?!!

If not me now, the 'world' later would do..

The 'world' is crazy, don't be bothered much

(pause)

I love you, my child..

I too, mom. But the 'world' wouldn't if I don't get my gender just right

(long pause)

Can you rest a bit more on your back maa? My shoulder is aching

Ok.. are you fine now?

Yes.. a lot better. Thanks maa

(pause)

What made you think of me, mom?

There's been a lot of expectation that I give birth to you after your Dad and me got married

Hmmmm..

It's the same pressure almost all women undergo.. which ends up with the pleasure of giving birth to a life

Not just 'life', mom; it's all about a 'boy' or 'girl'

Well, we are least bothered by that

'Life' isn't just we three. 'World' is cruel, isn't it?

(silence)

Maa, whats 'heaven'?

Believed to be a paradise, where Gods & Angels live..

And, 'hell'?

Realm of evil & suffering..

Mumma.. I prefer to live in 'heaven' than being born in 'hell'

Yet another caesarean section; 'world' smiles, the 'child' cries..

Social Sense

Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) buses play a vital role in my daily life; since they are my only means of commuting from home to work and back. It's such a 'pleasure', 'fun' and 'adventure' traveling in BMTC buses, one can realize it by personal experience alone. If you ain't traveling in BMTC, you definitely are missing the cruise of life for sure!

I always try to keep myself calm and relaxed while in city buses, in spite of all the drama happening around; mostly ending up falling asleep* (*if at all I get a seat to sit). Many a times I do wonder, how on this earth am repeatedly ending up sleeping in a crowded public shuttle? that too in BMTC! Does this effort of mine deserve an applause??

It was probably 6 months ago by now and an early morning when I (as usual) managed to (literally) jump into one of those speeding buses busy running a 'rat race' towards their common destination. Hardly I could find a few other passengers in the bus, who were still showing signs of discomfort recovering from their adventurous act of getting into the bus. Though the tupperware box getting burnt by the hot rice packed by my wife inside bag needed all the air gushing in from the window, I luckily could slide shut the glass shutter with ease (sometimes the windshields seldom move and some would have no handles, while few others might have went missing!).

While numerous PHP codes kept on dancing in joy for me being unable to put them right into the logics, a guy in his mid-teens gave a blasting entry with his cell phone singing aloud an old Kannada 'melody' - PREETIYALLI IRO SUKHA GOTTE IRALILLA.. HUU ANTIYAa? UHUU ANTIYAa..?? With this, my PHP application trying to find a way in executing the given logic crashed at once.

"Excuse me.." I spoke instantly
The guy looked at me, in response
"Can you please put your headset on?"
"I don't have one.." he complained
"Then, please mute the sound"
"Why should I?"
"Don't you think it might disturb others around?"
"Now a days drivers have FMs playing loudly in buses, would you go objecting at them too?" - an elderly-'looking' man interrupted and advised me "You cannot control things in public places.." while the song was still on and loud. Following this, couldn't even think of debugging my crashed codes for rest of the day; I was (sort of) upset.

It was only yesterday, I saw a notice displayed in one of the BMTC buses, which read:

Translation: BMTC, Head Office, Shantinagar, Bangalore - 27. Notice for passengers & students: Playing music loudly from mobile phones in buses causing noise pollution and inconvenience to co-passengers is prohibited. It is a punishable offense. Please co-operate.

On reading this, I felt more unhappy than happy; for in this modern educated world, people tend to forget, neglect and never try to understand even simplest things unless enforced by law; the need of the hour seems to be 'social sense'. Sigh..

4 - a rOll Over of 3

On 04-04-2012, 'four' 'firsts' did happen in life:

1. Going for a movie with my wife (16 months) after marriage
2. Watching a Tamil movie on a big screen
3. Getting to see the ambiance of PVR Cinemas
4. Me visiting Forum Mall (being a Bangalorean?? shame!! huhh..)

It was during our vacation in Manali, for the first time I happened to see the song 'why this kolaveri di?' played in some (really don't remember which) channel; but, impressive it was! 'Hes Dhanush, S-I-L of Rajanikanth singing it for his own movie directed by his wife Aishwarya' - introduced my wife while we were breaking our fast early in the morning with bread-omelette. 'Hmmmmm...' I said; neither my wife knew nor me, whether it was my response to the song or the tasty dish.

Even after '3' (a little more than 'too') much of thinking for '3' days after watching, I really don't know why the movie is named '3'?. 'Why the name 3?' was my first question to my wife, who had no clue either and my conscious failed to pick any glimpse from the movie relating to '3'. Is it because '3' stars Dhanush (son of Director KasthuriRaja), Aishwarya (daughter of Rajanikanth) and Shruti (daughter of Kamalhassan) are involved in making this movie, the name '3'?

The movie feels fresh in every aspect, Aishwarya seem to have proved herself in this debut. Dhanush justifies his 'psycho' brand while Shruthi looks promising. Winning edge is the fact that the movie takes almost everyone back to their teen-age, which none can forget throughout life. With the pleasant aroma of 'love' from 'kolaveri' song, it will be a definite 'shock' to see the movie starting with the funeral of 'Ram' (Dhanush). Flashback trick used by Aishwarya really works in relieving viewers from this 'sentimental' shock. Re-recording alone reveals the extensive homework made behind the screens right from Script writing to Movie making.

'why this kolaveri di' song rocks on screen too; all the credit goes to Anirudh Ravichander, boy behind the Music. Enough has been made for the song in the Movie to help it find itself a place with ease adjacent to its Album version. Distributors did make sure to highlight 'why this KOLAVERI DI' on all stills, which signifies the importance of this song in the success of the movie as such. Also, this song gains a lot of 'meaning' (with bipolar disorder) on screen unlike in album to answer much of the critics it had gained for lyrics.

Film making is not just all about it. With its tragic end for Ram not disclosing his psychological disorder to Janani (Shruthi) and committing suicide, I strongly doubt if the movie successfully conveys the message 'Suicide is not the solution for Bipolar Disorder; it can well be treated to cure with the advancement in Medical Science', which is flashed on screen by the film makers soon after the abrupt dismissal of the screenplay. Instead, the movie would have been made in such a way that it conveys the message by itself.

'ok mama.. now theme changeu..'

The movie has gotten a lot in it to say that 'love can win anything'; very true. Ram scoring highest in Physics (coz Janani joins him in tuitions) and Janani's dumb sister starts speaking with her love towards sister are two such instances. Now, why not Ram cure his bipolar disorder after marriage with the 'love' that exists between them? Support program is one of the suggested therapy for bipolar disorder patients, a wife would definitely qualify for carrying out this.

Given a chance for me to play Aishwarya's role in this film making, I would have made Ram to disclose his psychological condition to Janani (frankly speaking, it isn't easy to hide 'anything' from wife) after marriage and given the responsibility of curing it to Janani.

'whaa wat-a change over mama..'

This way Dhanush would have made his way out of 'psycho' trend, Shruthi would have saved a lot of her tears for not crying, movie would have entertained all group of audience, love & life would have dominated and won over mania & suicide, viewers would have got into a positive frame of mind towards life at the end and most importantly there wasn't any need to flash the 'message' after the screenplay since the movie itself would have successfully conveyed it by then.

Finally, with all these changes I would probably not let the movie be named '3'. For all the successful changeover I made, with the existing '3' stars another superstar 'ME' would have been added to name the movie '4'!!

'super mama ready.. oneee twooo three 4'

Right up there..

It's been quite sometime I wrote anything here in my Blog. Though I always had my laptop bridging me with rest of the world through internet, life wasn't all that easy to lead for the past month or so. I really am missing my family back in Bangalore, the hectic life there, the jam-packed traffic, the crowded BMTC, the vacant Vajra, the pollution, the never-ending political drama and so on. Well, thousands of miles away from home and everything else, my life day in and day out has only been in the laboratory with microscopic embryos - the very early budding forms of life.

Embryos I worked with..

Being born and brought up in the Pensioner’s Paradise Bangalore, I have rarely gotten any chance to make a living in a place where even the Sun chills - the foothills of Himalayas. Being a proud and responsible Indian, I don't regret for not being able to write more about the place in which am right now; for this being a High Alert Border Security Defense Zone. On arrival, we were instructed not to take snaps in the surrounding areas; when our great soldiers are literally freezing out here safeguarding the Country, we should be doing everything possible to support them and protect ourselves. I did follow the instructions strictly.

Many a times looking at the calendar portraits, I was wondering how it would have been if me given a chance to jump into the midst of the snow-caped Himalayan Mountains. It's only now I got to realize the fact that there is no better way to enjoy the beauty of Great Himalayas other than in the portraits; for living in such a place definitely isn't possible, at least for me.

Himalayan Mountains
Image : Annapurna Vista

Life here, is too short in the daytime. Being used to wake up at around half past four in the morning at Bangalore, it was all new to me seeing people getting geared up at around half past ten in the morning, only exception being the school-going kids. Sun fails to keep our body warm even when he is shining bright in the clear sky at noon and makes his way off the mountains by half past five in the evening; life comes to a stand still two hours from then.

End of the year 2011 was a tough one for me to deal with my wife. Reason being, I moved to Delhi to miss our first Deepavali festival after marriage in the month of October and later, came here to miss our first Wedding Anniversary in the end of November. It really isn't easy to compensate for these two losses; neither it is possible to live with it. So, I have planned for a relaxing year-end vacation with my wife at Manali in Himachal Pradesh; the only place which I felt to visit for the second time in my life.

Am going to be away from the New Year celebrations back home as I will be returning to Bangalore only in Jan 2012. Ahead is Manali..

Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Image Courtesy: Himachal Tourism

VISION

I felt odd, bad and even sad after seeing it was on 19-Sep-2011 the last post was written in my Blog. However, satisfying is the fact that a complex Web App was successfully developed during this brief pause. While I scribble these few words together to make some sense, Samparka Kranti Express is heading towards New Delhi, where I have to stay for the next 10 days on official work. The A/C here, to me, is as suffocating as ever!

Traveling in BMTC busses is fun; BUS DAY is turning out to be a good 'culture', serving many causes. But, the general public commuting in BMTC doesn't seem to have developed any better 'culture' than before. Especially, it touches deep down the heart when aged elders ain't given comfortable space they deserve by the youth; have we forgotten the general basics of life taught to us in childhood?

Carrying my usual two luggages - one lunch & accessories and the other, laptop & accessories has never been easy in BMTC. In the begining of this month, when life gotten messed up throwing unknown output errors and thereby increasing load on the backend, I wasn't prepared to make way to anyone. It was highly embarassing to see an elderly person struggling standing while me and another youth were comfortably sitting. Inspite of my unmanageable luggages, couldn't wait too long for my fellow traveller to make way for the elder. Since he never seemed being bothered by the situation, I soon made my way for the old man.

Opportunity never knocks twice; I didn't  get a chance to sit throughout the journey. We had almost reached Majestic and the young man who had no 'culture', touched his wrist watch to flip off the lid and sensed both the needles with his fingertips; couldn't believe my eyes!! While I gradually collapsed within, feeling really sorry for what all I had been thinking about him for so long, the young man pulled a walking stick out of his bag and headed towards the exit door.

For a moment, I lost myself but recovered soon and followed the young man. Standing behind, I could see him unfold the walking stick and try to find his usual way from an unusual place;
'Where you want to go?' - my question to him ended his efforts of finding the way and he replied '17th platform, Sir'. I held his hand, took him across the bus way on to the platform lane and said 'walk along the same lane for a distance and you'll be in 17th, now we are in 12th platform'. 'Thank you Sir' - tone of his reply was thankingly polite and he started walking along, gently tapping the platform edges on his way.

With no sight, the young man successfully started making his way towards destination. But I was completely lost in the midst of the busy-moving crowd, standing staring at the man with a walking stick who slowly disappeared from my perceivable vision.

Real Concern..

BEEP BEEP .. .. BEEP BEEP

As usual, my cell phone did enough to drag my attention to the reminder I had set a couple of hours ago. Knew I was already late to go and pick her; the delay was intentional since Dad told me before walking out to wait for Mom to pick her from School on her way back from temple. As she didn't turn up yet, I had to interrupt and take a leave from my laptop; though am working (hard) even from Home, it isn't getting any better than hectic.

Remember reading in the newspaper, BBMP Mayor had instructed to repair the ever getting worse roads in the City, asphalting was taken up in the street that connects Home to School, just 100 meters away. Somehow, I made my way alongside the truck and men at work around and reached the Gate-2 of the School. While looking for my niece there, I could hear a conversation happening:

Teacher-1: "You haven't given the leave letter even today?!"
Parent: "Okay, I will get it tomorrow sure"
Teacher-2: == busy moving up and down the nearby staircase ==
Teacher-1: "Tomorrow you have to get the letter without fail"
Parent: "I will, definitely"
Teacher-1: "We need it for the ISO filing, it's very important"
Parent: "Okay, Okay.."
(Parent makes a move out and am next)
Me: "Are they all LKG students?"
Teacher-1: "Whom are you looking for?"
Me: "Unnati.."
Teacher-1: (loudly) "Unnati.." (pause) "..where is she?"
Teacher-2: "Unnati is parent-pick na?"
(Both of them stare at me, don't know if I looked anything similar to the terrorist photograph that was published in the newspaper following the blasts at Delhi High Court [I didn't had shaved, may be what was the reason!]. I just end up trying to figure out Unnati, my little niece)
Teacher-1: "Who are you?"
Me: "Am her uncle, came to pick her"
Teacher-2: == goes blank with no words ==
Teacher-1: "We don't know who you are. You need to get a letter of authorization from Parents"
Me: "I know you don't know me, but the kid does.. she is born and bought up with me around"
Teacher-1: "No, we can't send her without the authorization letter"
Me: "Why authorization letter?"
Teacher-1: "We need for ISO.."
Me: "Well, firstly, where is Unnati?! She is not seen here?"
Teacher-2: "Someone might have taken her already"
Me: "SOMEONE!#*.."
Teacher-1: "I mean.. usually one of her grand parents pick her up"
Me: "Today they both are unavailable.. am very unhappy you ask me an authorization letter but at the same time say somebody has already picked her up. Am in-charge of  an ISO certified unit, so aware of these ISO stuffs.."
Teacher-1: "Unnati is in B-Section, I need not answer you"
(Handling highly 'talented' members of my team at work, this wasn't any new to me - shirking to extend moral support to a colleague while 'responsibility' matters)
Teacher-2: "Am very sure that Unnati will not go with anyone else other than her grand parents.."
(I was very happy hearing this, it's nice that her teacher had so much of confidence on the kid. I felt proud of Unnati)
Me: "You are so keen to get the authorization letter for filing but are not so keen about the safety of the children??!"
Teacher-2: "Please call back home and check Sir, they might have taken her already"
Me: "I myself have locked Home, none will answer my call.."
Teacher-2: "Immediately go home and give us a call back, we are too worried now"
Me: "But, how can a kid go out of the premises without the knowledge of so many staff and security around?"
Teacher-2: "Am sure someone.. I mean, one of her grand parents might have picked her up. From tomorrow you ask them to inform us before taking her from here"
Me: "I shall ask them to do so. At the same time, you do take proper care of the kids.."

Thousands of thoughts started colliding each-other in my gray-matter while I walk back Home; never know how I managed to get beyond the asphalting men. Reaching gate, the very sight of Unnati happily plucking flowers and playing in the garden at Home gave me so much of a relief.. I just can't explain it! Mom had picked her and took the other way to Home coz of the asphalting stuff happening in the normal way they walk to School.

It's good that policy makers at Educational Institutions are taking all possible steps to keep them up and ahead in the 'race'. No matter the ISO certifies how systematically an Organization is managed, but it shouldn't be the primary objective anyways. The real concern at Schools must be the security and safety of the innocent little kids, since they can easily prove to be the highly unpredictable lovely little creatures on Planet Earth.

Picture Courtesy: Saint Joseph Academy

My name is Harry

Courtesy - PicCat

My name is Harry; well, may be that doesn't matter anymore. My lungs fail to oxygenate blood and heart refuses to pump the impure blood. All my vital organs have rested themselves; kidneys being the main culprit for everything happening. There's a reason for me to fight my death – I just want to see my 'mom'.

Am 9 years old now; did you think it's not the age to die? But, being a Cat, that's nearly what I all deserve. 'Harry is going really down; all his vital organs have stopped functioning. To save him from further sufferings, I strongly suggest you to put him to sleep' says the Vet to my owner, which she refuses at once. My 'mom' is expected here to see me anytime now; I have to hold my breath until then.

While I lay down almost dead in the Intensive Care Unit, my owner picks a call – 'Harry hasn't had eaten anything for a week now; I don't see him open his eyes since past two days'. I know it's my 'mom' at the other end. After disconnecting the call, owner pats me and says 'Clara is taking the next flight and will be reaching here by evening. You will be alright Harry'.

Clara – the youngest daughter of my owner; she is my 'mom'. Even before I could open my eyes after birth, I was abandoned orphan. It's Clara who picked me up and gave me life then; it was she whom I saw when I opened my eyes for the first time. She was a school-going kid then, but still took care of me every single day – isn't she my 'mom'?

Though there were many Cats at home, am her only pet. She used to laugh with me, play with me, eat with me, sleep with me and even cry with me; in no time we were soul-mates. I don't remember even a single night sleeping without being hugged by her. I soon became her child and she, my 'mom'.

When she wanted to do her higher studies, she chose Veterinary Science. 'Don't worry Harry, I will soon become a Vet to see that you never get ill and had to suffer' – she told me before leaving to join a far away Veterinary School. I jumped into her bag and went till airport; was very sad that day and wept a lot for wanting her. It's five years now and she will be a Vet doctor in a month or so, and I have gone through all possible sufferings being ill and trying to restore my fading breath every single time, until she arrives.

'Harry never let me sleep the night before my daughter Clara was coming home. Now, though I told him she is already on her way to see him, he don't bother to respond' – my owner was telling to the Nurse who came to change my drip. She, and even me know very well that nothing on this earth could give me a rebirth; all meds pushed inside me had just gotten filtered out off my blood during dialysis.

'Harry..'; well, it sounds like my 'mom'. 'Harry.. I came for you..'; yes, it's my 'mom'. She gently pats on my head through body; I feel it so comfortable, as though am a new soul altogether. Finally am going to witness a sight, which I was longing to see for the last time in life. I put all my stored bits of energy together and managed to open my shut eyes. It's her.. my 'mom'; my 'mom'! She looked so sad, dull and red; hugged me at once. I felt it is the right time to let my pulse stop ticking. But then, I still want to live forever in the love of her arms. She comes close and kisses me on my forehead, tears roll off her eyes and falls on my mouth; I gently smacked it..

I pray, the great soul of Harry rest in peace.

B@D

It's my Blog @nniversary Day today!

That's what I was thinking and had been planning to post a writeup on this Day for the past month or so. Unfortunately, I had written my first blog post on 19-05-2010 and not 19-07-2010. It's actually been exactly two months past my Blog @nniversary Day and I plan to celebrate it today! Just wonder how did I forget to remember the Day? Well, that clearly shows am getting older; nothing much. That shouldn't stop me here, let's move on..

Even today, I don't really know why this idea of Blogging stuck my mind in the first place. Sometimes, we can't figure out what on this Planet Earth drives us crazy! To begin with, it was not all that easy for me to write my first ever post online; reason being, had no clue as to what I actually want to Blog about?! It still is a mystery, even before starting to Blog, that I knew it will be Gururaja, one of my close childhood friends, the first person to post a comment on my Blog.. and he did.

I continued writing about arbitrary things, with a sole idea of putting my thoughts into words and nothing else. It feels real good when I come to know that there are people who read my weird thoughts quite often. To be frank, the most attractive part of my Blog to me, is the bunch of my readers who have added colors to the Blog Theme with their pictures and value to my writing with their comments; am sure I can ask nothing more than having them spare some of their precious time online in my Blog. I sincerely thank all of my friends, for keeping along and making this tiny space on the web so very much interactive.

By now, I have figured out that Blogging isn't an easy task at all. Recently, was talking to one of my friend over telephone and he said 'I can make out that from your Blog', when I said 'life got busier these days; especially after marriage'. When said 'days have changed and things ain't the same after arrival of home minister', he replied 'my home minister is already staring at me..'. Okay, he is having tough time updating his Blog and most of us are sailing in the same boat. When I started to Blog, she wasn't my wife yet; but without my wife's continued support, Blogging wouldn't have been a part of my life after marriage. Today, for this Blog still does exist, equal credit goes to my wife too.

I share the joy of my First Blog @nniversary Day with each and every one of you; thanks for making this happen. With your ever lasting encouragement, I would like to continue write more and more here.

The more B@Ds; the more GOOD. Thank you all..

Handsome Hubby!

How to make ur Wife happy?
It's not at all difficult..
U only need to be a:
1. Friend
2. Companion
3. Lover
4. Chef
5. Electrician
6. Carpenter
7. Plumber
8. Mechanic
9. Decorator
.
.
.
312. Good Listener
313. Organizer
314. Good Luggage Lifter
315. Very Clean
316. Sympathetic
317. Athletic
.
.
.
1054. Courageous
1055. Determined
1056. True
1057. Dependable
1058. Intelligent
.
.
.
10013. Psychologist
10014. Pest Exterminator
10015. Psychiatrist
10016. Healer
.
.
.
3110010. Stylish
3110011. Driver
.
.
.
So, better be a bachelor and stay happy alone..

If you are a girl reading this post, I know you already have a comment right away. Please, do read on..

The above was an SMS I received on my cell phone few days back. First person to whom I forwarded that message was my better half, wife. 'no better work dear?' was a quick reply from her! I know she wasn’t angry; but, sure she wasn’t happy reading that message either.

It was my superior at work who sent me that message, from whom I have learnt a lot about life. He is very happy for being married since the past 30 years; and sometimes I do see a 'newly married man' in him when he speaks about his wife and married life. Also, he was the only person to counsel me about married life before my marriage, which definitely was worth listening. Frankly, am lucky enough to have someone like him with me at this important stage of my life.

I had also forwarded the same SMS to my junior and got a response 'ur wife is lucky Sir, u have all the listed characters'. Is it..?! Well, I did not proceed ahead to perform a postmortem on that statement. Truth is that my wife asks nothing else but thinks I still need to give her more time of mine in a day. Yes! It is a genuine ask from her and that's her right, anyways.

In life of Women, Men play a vital role; at least in a male-dominant society like ours. The less said (often unsaid) is also true - In life of Men, Women play a vital role. In my personal opinion, relationship of Husband & Wife is something that one should never miss to have in a lifetime - it is a unique feeling, which am unable to put in any known words here. If you are married, you know what I mean; if not, please get married to the right person at the right time.

My desktop and laptop computers are two biggest enemies of my wife these days; when am with any one of those, I easily forget rest of the world. Though our relation is more than nine years older now, living together as partners is a new life altogether. I know she is sort of hurt when she says 'in next janam, you should be my wife and me, your husband'. I strongly hope that it does happen, for the only reason that we get to live yet another life together. Toughest ask of my life so far (and even, forever) is to be a 'good' husband (am going to be one, for sure). However, I have realized that it's easy to be a human; but very hard to make a 'Handsome Hubby'.

Love..? Not just that.

He rode his bike until the down-pouring drops made it hard to keep his eyelids open apart. Rain seemed to have taken a challenge; they had to find a shelter soon. A lonely shop with shutter down midst total dark was only what they found along the suburban roadside. Before she could ask him to stop, he took their way off the street towards the closed shop.

It always so happened, he used to read her mind and she spoke his words. Though they came from different profession, their thoughts kept flowing in the same direction. In his busy schedule, he always found enough time for her and she, unknowingly made him ample space in her reserved world. She never wanted him in her life nor he did; but life had brought them close together.

Apart from the sparingly moving vehicles, only lightening in the sky lit the dark around them. He figured no glimpse of regret on her face in being there for him and she could pick no danger in his look for being there with him. They had no idea, as to what they actually expected amongst each other, which made their hearts literally heavier.

Love..? Not just that. Valentine’s Day might have had them speak the word, if it was only that. 14-Febs were yet another day together, making choice harder for them as ever. She didn’t want to pick a yellow rose for him and he wasn’t daring to pluck a red rose either. They had no clue, what was really apt.

Wind blew stronger, to soak them in rain even under shelter. Clothes failing to reveal their existence on skin, chill made its way deep into the bones. They stood close enough; she could feel his breath and he did feel her shiver. Darkness masked his feelings from her while he gently placed his hands across her shoulder. It made her shiver more, as she lost her warmth to him in his arms. Soon, they felt comfortably warmer. Their heart got lighter and the rain, heavier.

a step away..!

Two days of the year, specially dedicated to Women, have just passed by - March 8th (Women's Day) and May 8th (Mother's Day). Both the days being observed on the 8th date is a unique thing that happened this year, 2011. The latter went without any significant thing happening, but the former was too much a special day for me. All credit goes to Women around, for making March 8th - my day!

08-03-2011, Women's Day, was yet another day for me at work. As usual, I had reached office a bit late than my reporting time at 7 in the morning. After a couple of hours attending to my chores, I walked in to the Accounts Department to get my salary slip printed. There are two ladies in Accounts, Shashikala in her mid 40s and Eliana in her mid 50s, who were busy with files and papers then. Normally, I try to distract them by talking to our attendant Murugesh as they may feel disturbed if spoken directly.

Me: Murugesh, you know today is a very special day? Especially in Accounts Dept...
Murugesh: Is it sir? What is special today?

It's Women's Day..

So, how will that be special for us? We are not women!

It is special, coz the women here will be getting sweets to all of us while they celebrate Women's Day

Both the ladies spoke at once: Sure sir, what sweets you like to have?
They were smiling happily, which made me feel proud for getting the timing just right.

Am fine with any sweet, how about you Murugesh?

Me too sir..

Ok, we will get it for you all

I had printed my pay slip logging in to HRMS by then and moved back to my place.

In an hour's time, I was called for to the Accounts; Shashikala Mam had sweets in her hand by the time I could reach there. It was a pleasant surprise to me! Bengali sweets were all looking so delicious (didn't get the name though), gave her one, me took two and handed over the rest to Murugesh to distribute to others. I thanked her and got back to work.

The day went hectic, it was half past 4 in the evening when I was walking along Accounts and suddenly Eliana Mam appeared and said: I was looking for you since afternoon sir..
Me: Whats the matter Mam?

Been to the shop myself during lunch and got some sweets for you

Wow! Where are they?

While we reached her desk, Murugesh joined us.
Murugesh: Sir, since afternoon Mam refused my request for having a sweet to eat

Yes Murugesh, I wanted to give first to Prashanth sir as he asked for it

I already had picked one jalebi from the lot and starting eating.

Sir, the sweet is actually for three reasons

Gulp..!! Three reasons..??

Yeah, 1. Today is Women's Day

Then..

2. Even though it isn't your job, you have been processing all our salaries every month in time for the past 3 years in HRMS. We should be giving you sweets every month!

aaaah! Never mind.. I too want salary right?

3. Yours is the best behavior with women I have ever seen in this office. You always talk to women with respect and never use words that might hurt us.

I never had a clue what to speak in response.

Can I have one more jalebi Mam?

Sure sir, you can have the entire thing

Thanks, so that I will not be asking for sweets next time due to 'sugar complaint'..??

Everybody: LoL..

On my way back home, was feeling very happy and good within. I knew it wasn't easy to get such a compliment from ladies, especially when it comes to behavior of Men. It definitely has piled up loads of responsibility on my shoulders for rest of the life. I text-ed my wife and shared with few friends of mine about this. All replied in appreciation and my wife said 'good dear.. keep it up'.

That day, I literally was flying and for me, heaven was just a step away..

Those Three Days..

Those Three Days..

I had been to a nearby Medical Store couple of days ago, to buy few thermometers. Since I wanted minimum Ten of them, the shop-keeper kept me waiting for sometime while the owner arrived to explore thermometers in the midst of all the pharmaceuticals in store. A girl, looking to be in her early 20's came to the druggist asking for a pack of Whisper. I did realize later that it was an embarrassment for her to ask for what she wanted, since me, a guy was there around. She literally did 'whisper' while she asked for the 'Whisper'!

Up to the best of my remembrance, Whisper is the first product of its kind to gain popularity in the market. Manufacturer named it Whisper - the very trade name is indicative of it being something of high-class secrecy and shouldn't be spelled aloud. Being in the Medical Profession, I somehow am not convinced with it being named so; guess it isn't something to whisper about. I strongly suspect if it was the name 'Whisper', which made the product all that popular to begin with in the first place.

Giving the pads to girl, the Chemist at shop wrapped it inside old newspaper and packed in a black polythene cover. Still I wonder, why should a fresh pack of napkins be wrapped in a newspaper and given hidden inside a black polythene cover? Isn't it actually the way of disposing used pads off?! However, like many others, even that girl was so used to receive and carry such a packaged product, slipped herself off the place with it being placed in her handbag.

Menstruation, is as natural process as Salivation in physiological consideration, but definitely isn't an easy phase in life to get along with. I guess it wouldn't be easier for Men either to remain and claim physically stronger if made to bleed regularly at least for Three Days a month, continuously for thirty long years; losing up to 80 ml of fresh blood every time - it's seriously scary! Counting this on, am almost totally convinced that Women are the strongest creation of God on Planet Earth.

Symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome following physiologic hormonal changes are not the easier ones to have felt; predominantly being tension, irritability and unhappiness. It often is also commonly associated with non-specific symptoms like anxiety, mood swings, increased emotional sensitivity, stress, difficulty in falling asleep, painful cramping in abdomen, back & upper thighs, cyclic acne, joint pains etc. Going through all such things for almost more than half of their lives, it really is a challenge every Women has to face by chance; which they have been doing pretty well, in 'Silence'.

Modern Women in the Civilized World do enough to express their consideration of Menstruation as a Curse. This cannot be termed obstinate, but fact is that they see it as one of the major shortcomings for them to be equivalent to Men. It is a misconception in the minds of young Women that Modernization is all about enjoying equal status as Men do in the Society. Wise is to perceive Modernization as a drift in the Society wherein Women are not deprived of their basic necessities & rights, and are given enough opportunities all over.

I personally feel, Periods shouldn't just be deserving a Whisper ; instead, they truly should be obliged with a call aloud for Social Responsibility, initiated at the basic unit of Society - the Family. It should become an assumed obligation on every member of the family to help Women midst them to get over the physical, physiological and psychological challenges of Menstruation. Just a word of love and a hug of care would make a huge difference than those acts which make them feel a sort of untouchable and inauspicious. In this present Virtual World where we are making a successful living, it shouldn't be impossible for us finding various ways to virtually share this pain of Women, isn't it?? It's only then the campaign - have a happy period from Whisper would be a reality.

Leg Cricket..!

Cricket Fever

Bleed Blue - was a creative initiative for the game of Cricket by Nike. And, yesterday, it did become a reality when Indian Cricket Team literally fought to record a historical win against their traditional 'gaming rivals' - Pakistan. I wonder if anybody in the spectator stands watching the match could sit in their seat during the slog overs to see Indians making their way to the final of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2011, almost every Indian across the Country felt their heart pumping hard throughout the game.

By half past ten at night yesterday, Pakistani cricket player's flight reservation tickets back to Lahore were all confirmed. It was indeed, a well balanced battle and the one who held their nerves with a fair bit of luck swinging their way, made it through the finals. India in the past had never lost to Pakistan in world cup matches and they didn't, even yesterday. Sachin being dropped a couple more than a couple of times was an embarrassment for himself. As a result of yesterday's win, every single small street in Bangalore has turned into a cricketing strip, should it need a note about the play grounds then? Its been a very hard time for parents to keep their kids sit with books; Cricket Fever has successfully taken a remarkable hike over the Exam Fever!

Can you imagine of a cricket game being played with no wickets, no bails, no bats, no boundaries but just a fur-less tennis ball? I was to halt for a while in Koramangala when on a visit today and decided to relax in a nearby park in the midst of the lovely greenery. Adjacent to the park was the BBMP playground and believe me, it was jam-packed with cricketers. I wasn't able to figure out whose cricketing ball was going where - there were so many matches going on! Though I did give a try, it was not all that easy for me to follow a single game amongst the too many of them being played there.

Out of all, one group of players did grab my attention. A long, wide stone made their wicket at the striker end and a brick at the non-striker. Half-folded pants were good enough to help them use their legs as bat! Under-arm bowling was only allowed to challenge the batsman. A pitch-catch is all it needs to send a batter back and it was only a five overs match. It looked to me like an all new form of Leg Cricket, next to the T20 format. I carefully followed their game and it really was amazing to watch!! Some had their right leg pant folded and others left - accordingly I assumed they were either right-legged or left-legged batsman. I was astonished to see one of the players using his stomach to defend his wicket and other one used his head to hit a boundary behind the wicket keeper! They were using everything to hit the cricket ball except their hands. Watching them, the cricketer within was almost pushing me to join those kids with dirty legs, who were enjoying their game to the fullest. It did remind me of those days when I got used to get scoldings from Mom for making my dresses damn dirty playing at the ground - it was real fun playing in mud, that too on a heavy rainy day!

Today morning, I just saw a picture (did not read the article) in Times of India; Kumar Sangakkara getting a thread tied to his right wrist by a holy-looking person before leaving to Mumbai. No matter how long threads they tie around hand and different parts of their body, it can never out match the prayers of all we Indians. Lets pray together for our Cricket Team to go and win the ICC Cricket World Cup this Saturday.

Chak de.. Chak de India!