Sunday, November 30, 2014

A year older. And, hopefully, wiser.

Greetings from Shalu.

First, and foremost - thank you, from the very bottom of my heart, to everyone, for the birthday wishes. The one which came, some days after the mid of November 2014. Thank you for the blessings, the love, and the care.

Birthdays are very personal, to me. No. Not because of the getting old issue. 
But, because, I truly believe, it is a day you celebrate with loved ones. The family and friends that you genuinely hold close to heart. And, I did, exactly that. 

God and Appa. Thank you for continuing to watch over me. And for blessing me, from up above. 

Amma, my Goddess. The one who makes me realise that heaven will always be a place on earth, as long as I have her, with me. Thank you for the midnight, surprise party. 

Akka. My best friend. My second mom. We share a 13 year gap. But, we are allies. Compatriots. Shopping buddies. Gossip gang. Partners in craziness. 
And, she is my favourite Whatsapp contact. Yes, such a favourite, that we share secret messages, even when in the same room. Thank you for the side dishes for party. Thank you for ensuring a good attendance. 

My brother, Segar. Who remembered. For once. Hahaha.....
Guys rarely keep track of dates and all. So, when he actually called to wish, I found it a little weird and funny. Brothers. They can drive you crazy. He does, too. But, he cares just as much. And, I continue to count on him, anytime of the day. 

Mogan. For one of the earliest wishes. For making me smile from ear to ear. For continuing to be a part of my life. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. 

Inpan and Devaki. My besties in London. For the phone call across the miles. For the messages. For just being there, in my life. You've put our friendship on a pedestal. You're family, guys. And, I love you both as well as the two little ones, so very, very much.

Sivaram. My blog reader. Years have transformed us into Facebook and email friends. Thank you, too, for that surprise phone call, from India. I was truly taken by surprise because you remembered. And not to mention, that sweeter than sweet poem via mail. May God bless you in your new journey of life. And, yes, thanks. Very much appreciated. 

To my besties, who compromise of 5 crazy girls, from my uni days - Thanks. You guys rock. 

To everyone else who is aware of my EXACT birth date, and dropped by to wish, thank you, too.

Yes, I am blessed. Thanks.

Take a piece of the cake. Virtually. That's all that is possible for now.

Signing off,
~Shalu~


Saturday, September 20, 2014

Thunbam Nergayil Yazh Eduthu - Transcendent Tamil & Its Translation.

For and with sincere thanks :-
Thiru Kathiravan Krishnamurthi of Westford, Massachusetts. 

Every single word, in the post, belongs to him. Solely. 
His patience in intricately explaining this beautiful Tamil song to ordinaries like me, requires a standing ovation.
I am giving him one, albeit virtually.

To have someone of such high status and intelligence with depth in Tamil language, do the translation, for the mere fact of running into my blog by chance, is indeed, a dream come true.

I am so thankful to him. For his genuine effort. 
I have been vocal about the level of gratitude I owe him, and have written a couple of mails to him, since.

Without his translation, this post would not have materialised.

Nothing has been changed about the translation. 
Nothing. 
Nil.
His explanation is just precise. 
Written from the heart.
Thus, I don't want to change a thing. 
I read his translation in awe.
Tamil is just so immensely beautiful.
I am so very proud today.
Because I read, write and speak this amazing language. 
I would have never been able to justify the exquisiteness of this language, had I not learned it.
Appa, thank you. 
You instilled the love.

Thiru Kathiravan Krishnamurthi. Heartfelt thanks. 
Words would not be sufficient to thank you. 
Dinner. On us. When you and your little clan (Puggy, the world's most pampered pet, too) plan that much awaited Penang, Malaysia trip. 

And, yes. 
Appa always taught me to think good and pray for another.

Thiru Kathiravan Krishnamurthi
May The Almighty God bless you and your family with happiness, prosperity and well being for always. 
My warmest regards to everyone at home. 
Vani Ma'am, Mugil & Venil. 
They already sound like family. 
Love and affection, is indeed, the world's greatest antidote.
Thanks again.

வாழ்க தமிழ்.  
 
As written by the very respected Thiru Kathiravan :-

The song was written during the days of Tamil renaissance. 
Tamil that was sung in temples, stages and in dance performance was getting a back seat to Telugu and Skt in Tamil Nadu. 
In the 1600s Tamil Trinity of Muthu Thanadavar, Marimuthu Pillai and later Arunachala Kavi pioneered Keerthanas. 
Bharathidasan wrote the lines longing for olden days when Tamil music set to dance is performed.
This song is a outpouring of his wish.

First Para :

துன்பம் நேர்கையில் யாழ் எடுத்து நீ
இன்பம் சேர்க்க மாட்டாயா? - எமக் 
கின்பம் சேர்க்க மாட்டாயா? - நல் 
அன்பிலா நெஞ்சில் தமிழில் பாடி நீ 
அல்லல் நீக்க மாட்டாயா? - கண்ணே 
அல்லல் நீக்க மாட்டாயா?

yAzh is a precursor to veeNa used in music. 
Ancient Tamil poets during Bhakthi era sang and pANars (instrumentalists) set them to music. 
The system of paNs is still in vogue among the devotional singers.

yAzh_eduththu enakku inbam sErkka maattaayA.
It is a plea to the child (kanne-young one) to sing in Tamil with yAz accompaniment..

The poet is singing to a child. 
The poet has love for the language but he puts sometimes in shoes of somebody who lack love in their heart.

When I run into (nErkayil) sadness (thunbam,
will you please play the harp (yAzh; bring me joy (inbam)

Sing in Tamil, please will you alleviate the distress (allal neekka) in the mind (nenju) of loveless (anbillaa)

Second Para :

வன்பும் எளிமையும் சூழும் நாட்டிலே 
வாழ்வின் உணர்வு சேர்க்க - எம் 
வாழ்வின் உணர்வு சேர்க்க - நீ 
அன்றை நற்றமிழ்க் கூத்தின் முறையினால் 
ஆடிக் காட்ட மாட்டாயா? கண்ணே 
ஆடிக் காட்ட மாட்டாயா?

The poet not only wishes a song set to yAz music. 
He wants more. 
He pleads with the child to perform kooththu (a dance form).

vanbum eLimaiyum sUzhum naattilE
vanbu-extravaganze, haughty show
eLimai-simplicity -->humility.

In the land (naattil) bring surrounded (sUzhum) by both vanbu and eLimai, 
will you please bring out the true feeling of life
Would you please give a show of fine Tamil koothu
Would you please?

anRai naRRamizhk koothu muRai(it could mean Tamil Koothu system of yesteryears (anRai)or the dance form sweet like amizhthu (nectar of celestials)

There are many types of koothu (it is a system of dance) mentioned in silappathikaaram composed by Chera Prince Ilango.

Third Para :

அறமிதென்றும் யாம் மறமிதென்றுமே 
அறிகிலாத போது - யாம் 
அறிகிலாத போது - தமிழ் 
இறைவனாரின் திருக்குறளிலே ஒரு சொல் 
இயம்பிக் காட்ட மாட்டாயா? - நீ
இயம்பிக் காட்ட மாட்டாயா?

The poet talks about Valluvar who wrote 1330 couplets divided into three chapters covering various aspects of life in terse form.

kuRaL -short poem, aRam-virtue.. maRam (thamizh)~ veera (skt)-valor. maRam is subtly different.. It is courage in a virtuous sense.

When we (yaam) are not clear about aRam and maRam 
Would you please recite (iyambu) a couplet from our law giver.

iRaiyanaar- iRai is dispense.. give away, spill

iRaiyanar==valluvar who gave us moral code of living well.

Final Para :

புறம் இதென்றும் நல் அகம் இதென்றுமே 
புலவர் கண்ட நூலின் - தமிழ்ப் 
புலவர் கண்ட நூலின் - நல் 
திறமை காட்டி உனை ஈன்ற எம்உயிர்ச் 
செல்வம் ஆகமாட்டாயா? தமிழ்ச் 
செல்வம் ஆக மாட்டாயா?

Bharathidaasan has composed a number of devotional songs set to music in his early days. 
When he met Bharathi he had shared a number of his poems and Bharathiaar was impressed. 
One of the common thing about these poets was that they were well versed in ancient texts and music.

The poet wishes the child to develop skills by reading the ancient texts that were characterized into: aham and puRam. 
Aham deals with love and life concerning the hero and heroine. 
Puram deals with war, virtues of emperors and life outside the family.

Won't you exhibit skills of Tamil poets
Won't you master aham and puRam of
yore and become
Wealth to this soul that begot (iinRa) you 
Won’t you become a wealth for Tamil! Oh darling

The Tamil Lyrics :

துன்பம் நேர்கையில் யாழ் எடுத்து நீ
இன்பம் சேர்க்க மாட்டாயா? - எமக் 
கின்பம் சேர்க்க மாட்டாயா? - நல் 
அன்பிலா நெஞ்சில் தமிழில் பாடி நீ 
அல்லல் நீக்க மாட்டாயா? - கண்ணே 
அல்லல் நீக்க மாட்டாயா?

வன்பும் எளிமையும் சூழும் நாட்டிலே 
வாழ்வின் உணர்வு சேர்க்க - எம் 
வாழ்வின் உணர்வு சேர்க்க - நீ 
அன்றை நற்றமிழ்க் கூத்தின் முறையினால் 
ஆடிக் காட்ட மாட்டாயா? கண்ணே 
ஆடிக் காட்ட மாட்டாயா?

அறமிதென்றும் யாம் மறமிதென்றுமே 
அறிகிலாத போது - யாம் 
அறிகிலாத போது - தமிழ் 
இறைவனாரின் திருக்குறளிலே ஒரு சொல் 
இயம்பிக் காட்ட மாட்டாயா? - நீ
இயம்பிக் காட்ட மாட்டாயா?

புறம் இதென்றும் நல் அகம் இதென்றுமே 
புலவர் கண்ட நூலின் - தமிழ்ப் 
புலவர் கண்ட நூலின் - நல் 
திறமை காட்டி உனை ஈன்ற எம்உயிர்ச் 
செல்வம் ஆகமாட்டாயா? தமிழ்ச் 
செல்வம் ஆக மாட்டாயா?

Sunday, August 10, 2014

Kannamaa, is what my father called me. The Jigarthanda song.

Greetings.

It's drizzling over here. Not warm neither cold, but definitely better than dry and humid.
I have been down with the fever, flu and sore throat for the past one week and more. 
Visited the doctor, thrice. Yes, thrice. The last, being yesterday night.
My temperature was at 39.5 to 40 degrees Celsius high, so the doctor gave me 2 injections.
One for the fever and the other for the throat infection. 
I am half recovered now. The is a slight running nose and a lesser than mild cough, but way better than what I was the whole of last week.
And, for the first time in days, I slept well. 
I miss Appa, especially at moments like these. Amma is a wonderful caretaker, nevertheless. All 100%. She made me rice porridge. She poached eggs. She made Chinese noodles. And bought me, fresh coconut water. I am being pampered to the max. But, I miss Appa, despite all.....

Kannamaa, is how Appa called, me. I still raise eyes if someone does so, out of the blue. 
It's equalent to being called the Queen. The exact way Appa doted upon me. Like a Queen. I have no doubt that even Amma and Akka were second to me. I was, definitely, the only apple of his eye. And, that is the plain truth.....

I enjoy this song. It's a little eccentric, though. I was suppose to watch the movie at the theatres recently, but had to make way for something else. Everyone is raving about it. And, I am a big fan of Naalaya Iyakunar contestants. Karthik Subburaj, the director is one. And there is also the young talents comprising of Siddarth, Lakshmi Menon and Bobby Simha. People who ACTUALLY act, not flaunt. So, more reasons to watch this movie.....

Signing of, now. 
Take care. God bless.
Sleepy..... Thanks to all the medication. 

p/s :- using an iPad to blog is like using a GPS tracker in the Sahara Desert. Or perhaps I am not too Internet savvy especially with iOS devices. 



Sunday, July 20, 2014

Po Indru Neeyaaga from Velaiyilla Pattathari

Heyya everyone.....
Hope everything is as rosy as it ought to be.

Malaysia is in mourning. Our national flag and all state flags will fly at half mast until the 21st of July 2014. Our second major tragedy, this year. And, barely 4 months after losing the MH370 to God-knows-where. 

It is heart wrenching to watch the news. Be it local or international. The stories of the unfortunate passengers who boarded the plane, stab you like a titanium knife. The happy lives they lived, lost in split second. 

CNN calls it the "worst crime scene in the world". We cannot fail to agree. It's an active war zone. There are so many setbacks. The rebels. The pro Russians. The politicising. The pin pointing. The looting. The blazing temperature. The rotting bodies. The stolen black box. It's just devastating. 

And, in the midst of all this gloominess, we are trying to console ourselves with the little happy things. 

I received a whatsapp message this late evening. From a friend. 
"Watch this !" it read.
"The girl's name is Shalini. And she wears lots of churidar suits, just like you. :) It's a fun movie. I can watch it with you - for the second time ;)"
I reply with a ":)". 
This video clip is attached. 
It is love at first sight for me. First sight and first listen. 
Not just because my favourite actor Dhanush is singing it, and the lead actor in the movie, but because the video is done in perfect taste. 
So very very romantic.
Watch it. And listen to the oh-so-beautiful lyrics. 
It soothes the heart at this testing time.....
A "Shalu" kind of song ;) 

Have a great week. Take care. Stay blessed.

Love, 
-Shalu- 



Sunday, June 29, 2014

10 reasons (and more) why EVERYONE should watch Pannaiyarum Padminiyum.

I am definite about this movie. Shalu's choice - undoubtedly. 
That everyone should watch it.
A great movie inspired by a 10 minute short film from Naalaya Iyakunar.
If there is one film for 2014 which blew my mind, made me sit up and smile and awe over the evolving Tamil film industry, this was it.
Watch it. All of it. Don't miss even a second. It is way too beautiful to miss.
A decent movie that evokes the sentiments. Of love, family and relationships. Be it with human or inanimate objects.
What-A-Movie.
I am certain this movie is headed for a string of awards and accolades.
10 reasons why EVERYONE must watch this stellar. 
  1. Jayaprakash, the Pannaiyar.  The a Number One reason. He is brilliant in his role. The main reason why I have watched this movie, all 152 minutes, three times. And each time, unfazed and with the same level of content. As the village Pannaiyar, as the loving husband, as the devoted father. In every scene, he scores a perfect 10. His expressions, flawless. His acting ability, astounding. I am an ardent fan of his. Ardent, yes. 
  2. Thulasi, Chellama, the Pannaiyar's wife. Gawd, she does her role in equal to the brilliance of the Pannaiyar. She is a natural. The wife who stands by her husband. Filial. Encouraging. Flirty. Their chemistry is perfect. So perfect, that I felt they fared far better than the younger couple. 
  3. Vijay Sethupathi as the Driver Murugesan. One of my favourite actors ranks third, in this movie. The elderly couple were too good. But, Vijay Sethupathi plays his part very well. As he always does. He is indeed a versatile actor. He shines as the Pannaiyar's driver. He radiates as the son like figure to the Pannaiyar's wife. And, the down to earth lover to the heroine. 
  4. Padmini, the car.  This awesome premier vehicle, is green in colour, large, strong and holds a major capacity in the movie. It is the village's stately symbol. And half the title of the movie. 
  5. The beautiful songs. All of them. Justin Prabhakaran, the movie music director should be applauded for an all line up of heart melting numbers. Vaali has penned the lyrics for three of the songs. My favourite is Onnakaaga Poranthene as well as Ennakaaga Poranthaaye. Back to back male and female versions. Love, described in such magnificence. 
  6. Peedai @ Peruchaali.  The guy's actual name is Balasaravanan. He adds laughter to the already candid moments. He has a special ability. What? Well, watch it. You will know. It's indeed so very hilarious.
  7. Neelima Rani, the daughter. The villain of the movie. You will despise her. Daughters always  prioritise their parents even after marriage. This is fact. But, not in her case. She is constantly trying to loot something from her parental home. And, she plays her part so well, you will frown disapprovingly every time she visits her parents. 
  8. Original screenplay by S U Arunkumar.  What a screenplay. He is the brainchild to this awesome movie. He hails from the Naalaya Iyakunar league. So, it's not surprising at all. He has all the makings to be a celebrated young director. Hats off. 
  9. Gokul Benoy's cinematography. I have always been a huge fan of cinematography. Like Rajiv Menon. Mark Koninckx. Manoj Paramahamsa. Benoy has done great justice to the entire movie. Crisp, clear and overwhelming shots. I watched it on HD and DVD. Original. They did not play at a cinema near home. Had they, I would have, watched it there. Three times, undoubtedly. Just like am doing now. 
  10. The string of awards. That it is going to win. Watch it before it is going to be the talk of the town. It is, already now. But do so, before the juries from acclaimed bodies, get together and decide so. Then, when they give away the awards, you will smile, knowing you have watched an awesome screenplay, prior to its merit bestowal. 
When you finish watching this movie, that feel good motor response is going to enfold you. Trust me. 

Have a blessed week. July is just days away. Yes I have been a horrible, lazy blogger - sincere apologies. :-)

Take care. God Bless. 

Sunday, June 1, 2014

June is here, and so am I ! And, finally, "WHATSAPP"ing ! :-)

Hello everyone.
Hope the days have been good to you, as they were to me.
Today is Ganesh Chathurti. Today is also the first day of the sixth month of the year - June.
Today, is also, the day, I FINALLY, yes, FINALLY,  got whatsapp on my android.
So, I thought, what better day, to post a word or two.
Life is going great. I want to keep it so.

I never fancied whatsapp - from the beginning.
I also, do not, cling onto my mobile, as if it was favourite soft toy.
Thus, it did not make me feel displaced or left out, when the rest of my family and friends, were having a  gala, at it.

But, today, I gave in. Finally. And,  I owe it these individuals.
  • My darling sister, is leaving, for a European vacation. 2 weeks, approximately. That's means, limited and restricted modes of communication. The only way, I will get to keep in touch, at a bargain, is through whatsapp. The MAIN reason. I cannot imagine not talking to her, and my Mom. They continue to be my pillars of strength. 
  • My bestie who resides in London. She is expecting her second child soon. And, yes, I will be the distinguished godmother, again. Again, the key word is economical. Nominal. Whatever that takes not to splurge. It's not that I am some big saver - but I am pretty careful, with money. The drive being - holidays. Do you know how costly they can be ? Hmmm. Give it a thought. 
  • My group of girlfriends. My uni mates. 6 of us. We remain great friends. I received a SMS from one of them, some months back. "Please get whatsapp ! The best place for the 6 of us to chat. We already have a group. Waiting for you." I miss them, lots. I am the only one still living here, in the north. The rest are all based in the country's capital. We spent more than 4 years of our lives together, in the same hostel for two years and in a rented home, the remaining ones. 
I am still a novice at it. Still learning the tricks. I even, said hello, to my brother who lives in KL, via whatsapp. And, he replied, with a smiley. Not bad, huh ? 

Manic Monday. I hope not. I look forward to it being a wonderful one. 
A start to a pleasant week ahead. 
Wish you all the same too. Stay blessed. Take care.
Smile. Life is too short to sulk about. 
And, yes, whatsapp - for free - to that friend, you have not said a hello to, in a long while. It feels great to make a person happy that they are in your thoughts. Love and affection does wonders. 
Really. Cross my heart. It does.

I love this song. But have yet to watch the movie. Soon - hopefully...
Tamil at one of its loveliest - virtuously - 
"வாவென்று சொல்லும் முன்னே, வருகின்ற நியாபகம், 
கண்ணே உன் சொல்லில் கண்டேன், அறியாத தாய்முகம்....."

Again, signing off. 
Shalu says, "Take care. God bless."

Sunday, May 18, 2014

Recommended Tamil Movies - 5 awesome Tamil movies within the first 5 months of the year. :-)

I really LOVE watching GOOD Tamil movies and ALWAYS recommend them, to fellow, enthusiasts. 
2014 has introduced us to a handful of truly attested ones. 
I watched ALL the ones mentioned here, in the theaters. 
Yes - I deserve a pat on the back, for it. 
For encouraging the entire crew of the movie, in a somehow tiny, minuscule way.
And, for NOT buying pirated DVDs. 

So, listed here, are 5 good Tamil movies that have come my way these 5 months (Jan-May 2014) and the reasons why I think you shoud join my bandwagon. 

    Damaal Dumeel by Shree.

    I truly love this movie. Don't ask me why. And, if you do not enjoy it as much as what I did, my advance apologies. It is indeed my current favourite Tamil dark comedy.  I had so much of fun watching it. It was full blown amusing. I do not want to tell you the plot. It will diffuse the suspense and the screenplay. The screenplay was original and the flow, fluid. It cheered the flat mood I had when I went in the theater, reluctantly. And, yes what-ta prodigious ending. Well, if you are someone who loves laughing exuberantly like me, then, this is for you. 

    Thegidi by P. Ramesh
    My other favourite movie. A deserving Tamil whodunnit. A totally out of Tamil cinema scenario. Again, I do not want to divulge more than I should. You have to watch it, for yourself. The screenplay was original and the acting spontaneous. It was an added bonus that they had superb songs. And, a possibility of a sequel.
    So, make that cup of coffee, dim the lights, snuggle on your couch and watch this one without battling an eyelid.
    p/s - Oh, yes - Janani Iyer, the heroine, has great fashion sense. And, the song titled "Vinmeen" is my current mobile ringtone. :-)

    Goli Soda by Vijay Milton
    This inspiring movie garnered rave reviews. I insisted on watching it when the rest of the gang wanted to Ajith's Veeram. Eventually, they were glad with my choice. The growing up Pasanga team returned with a bang - parallel to a volcanic explosion. These kids are plain natural. And, the movie was made in such good spirits that it uplifts us, as curtains draw. This is a MUST watch for the year 2014, and is expected to collect numerous awards, in the near future.

    Naan Sigappu Manithan by Thiru
    For starters, I am no fan of Vishal. But, I adore Lakshmi Menon. She is among the present time ace heroines. I watched it due to coercion from some friends. Fortunately, I sincerely enjoyed it. There are many things in this movie that make you smile. And, just as many that will break your heart. The chemistry between the hero and the heroine is undeniable. There are a couple of huge twists in the movie. And, that is exactly what makes this movie something to invest your time in. Give it a try. You may end up liking it - just like me. :-)

    Maan Karate by Kris Thirukumaran
    I went to watch this movie with a group from friends way past midnight. 12.45am to be exact. We could not get 12am tickets. They were all sold out, so we had to opt for the next one, as we had already made the trip to the mall where this movie was playing. Even, the 12.45am tickets were fast selling and we managed to get adjoining seats. I was worried that I might doze off.  I have never been a fan of daffy, shallow movies. I expected it to be - apologies - but what else can you expect from a Sivakartikeyan-Hansika combination. Delightedly, it was an awesome non stop comedy. I laughed - my heart out - from the very first minute until the utmost end. This is a true comedy. There is no con here Trust me.

    So, that is for now. Hope you liked my compilation. 
    You know what ? The Tamil cinema is unfolding fascinatingly. I am proud that it is no more about singing by the beach, running around trees and fighting from Arctic to Antartica. I am glad the villain does not carry a big mole on his right cheek and wears a red bandana everywhere he goes. I am pleased there is healthy influx of new heroes and heroines that manage to proof themselves with creditable acting abilities. 
    So, hail my Tamil cinema. :-)

    See ya. Take care. God Bless.
    ~Shalu~

    Saturday, May 17, 2014

    Inidhu, Inidhu. Yes, I am back. :-) Life is too short to be busy. Make the best of it !!

    ps/ - i LOVE this video. Dont leave without watching it - FULL. This is something you must not miss. Life is too short to be proud of being busy. Savour life. Every second of it. Inidhu, Inidhu - that is how life should be. :-)

    Hiatus - A break or interruption in the continuity of a work, series, action, etc.
    In my case, blogging. :-(

    I am truly sorry for not being able to leave a post during the last two months. 

    No. I am not going to say I was busy.
    I hate glorying the word busy.
    Busy is a word that is meant for people who do not have lives.
    I sometimes wonder about all those people who constantly claim (or rather allege and declare) themselves so. 

    What when they grow old ? 
    What when they become inactive ? 
    When all that busyness comes to a halt ? 
    When being idle is their only available choice ? 
    Will karma knock at their doors? 
    Will karma say, "Well, guess what ? You spent your whole life lauding and celebrating the action of being busy. All those people who were there, tirelessly and patiently waiting for you, hoping that somehow, you'd set aside some time for them, have ACTUALLY moved on. Well, now it's your time to listen to them say, "We are not BUSY - but rather, ENJOYING time - with family and friends who were there for us - all these while."

    And, yes. 
    That's what I have been doing. 
    Spending LARGE amounts of time with family and friends. 
    Luxuriating in relationships that matter. 

    • I have attended reunions. 
    • I went for family functions. Lots. 
    • I have stayed over the weekend at my sister's place. (Which I have not done in years).
    • I watched movies at the theatres, instead of at home.
    • I enrolled for yoga classes with gym facilities.
    • I head to Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, more frequently, to visit my favourite relatives as well as my best friends. 
    • I spend many free evenings with Amma at the kitchen. 
    • I have gone window shopping in later afternoons and temple visiting in the late evenings, both on the same days, with Akka - my best buddy.
    • I enjoy biscuits over tea time - with family. 
    • I read. A lot. 
    • I am researching for my next vacation - already.
    • I meditate every other day. For 20 minutes, at least. It is indeed, very calming. 
    • I joined a friend to the art gallery some time back. It was beautiful. Art is beautiful.
    • I want to swing by Singapore real soon. The Universal Studios and the Underwater World is simply irresistible. Planning has already started. :-)
    • I STILL have a hundred things running on my mind and hope to do as much as I can.
    So, yes, this is Shalu - signing in again. After the hiatus. :-)
    To everyone who has left me emails, iMessages, Facebook messages and comments, thank you from the very depth of my heart.
    It is honorably wonderful to be appreciated. Thanks, yet again.

    I spent the weekend at home. All 48 hours. Loved it. It has been a while since I had the immunity of doing so. Home remains my favourite sanctuary. I also love the beach, laid back coffee cafes and of course, Chennai and now, Varanasi, too.

    I watched this movie this afternoon, with Amma. My sister and her kids joined us half way through the movie. They were paying the mandatory weekend visit. I was not paying full attention to it as I have watched it a couple of times prior to this. I was browsing through something on the ipad, actually.

    And this song played. And I looked up. And totally doted it. 
    This is beautiful. Really. 
    Immerse your self in the song. The lyrics and the melody. Absorb the conversations in between.

    Take care. God Bless.

    Love always,
    ~Shalu~

    Monday, March 17, 2014

    Of Mog♥n, Milo and Maalai Mangum Neram.....

    "Subconsciously, it takes at least 6-8 months for the brain to process complete forgiveness for someone who hurt you emotionally....."

    It's March now. 8 months since. Yes, I have forgotten a lot of things during this period. And, yes, I have forgiven a lot of people, too.

    I had no intention to post today. But something popped up, out of the blue..... And, thus, here I am. Near to 15 minutes after 10pm. 

    Monday blues. I had piles of work on my table. Moderate, though - in comparison with some days. Coming back from a long vacation to find only this much is a blessing. 

    I skipped lunch. Wanted to clear the urgent stuff.
    As I was doing my work, a close colleague, appeared, in front of my desk, with a cup of hot Milo. For me.
    Yes, hot Milo.
    And it brought back memories. 
    And, tears gleaming in my eyes. 

    Mog♥n.....
    Mog♥n makes perfect cups of Milo. 
    All the time. 
    Yes, he does.....
    I wish I could have one, now.

    Milo, to me, is just not a cup of chocolate drink. I grew up associating it with love. 
    Mom made it for me while I was still in primary school. 
    She still does, until now. 
    On days, when she thinks, I should have a cup. A hot one, that is.
    My sister does, too. 
    On Sunday mornings, she always makes one for me without hesitation. 
    She knows, I will never say no to a cup of hot Milo. 
    So, Milo, to me, brings thoughts of love and affection. 
    It still does. Always will. 

    Today, when my colleague did so, it just strengthened my ideology about this drink. 
    Milo, is, made with love. And, relates to warmth.
    Milo, is another way, to say, I care about you. 

    I made myself a cup of hot Milo. A short while ago.
    I am listening to Malai Mangum Neram from Rowthiram. Now.
    It remains one of my favourite songs. 
    And, Mog♥n..... 

    I have posted this song plenty of times. Today, again.
    Sorry, if it bores you. 
    But, I love this song. More than ever, today.
    The video is haunting.
    The walk in the rain, under the same umbrella.
    The motorcycle ride.

    And, have you ACTUALLY listened to its lyrics ? 
    It's simply beautiful. Mind blowing - beautiful.
    Love is about remaining faithful - at all times - even in the hardest of situations.....

    Good night. God bless.

    Sunday, March 16, 2014

    home SWEET home - I am FINALLY back

    Yes, I am. Finally, back. In home grounds. In my favourite sanctuary in the whole wide world. 
    My first weekend - back home. 
    I wanted to write earlier but Mom had given me a moderate (:-P) list of household chores that I needed to settle, first and foremost.
    The house was as dusty as the Thar Desert in Rajasthan.
    I had to sweep - thrice. Mop, with plain water - thrice. And, mop with floor cleaner - thrice. And, the 9 time lucky chore took me near 2 hours and 45 minutes.
    Pahhhhhhhhhhhhh :-(

    My room is like a little Indian shop. From clothes to souvenirs to handicrafts. I have cleaned and arranged half. Another half to go. Need to do it by tonight.
    Work starts tomorrow, and I expect it to be a busy, busy one.

    It rained yesterday. Heavy. Which was a big blessing. My garden was in a sad state when I returned. It was no more green and growing. But, brown and barren. I need to do something about them one of these days. Hmm...

    We are continuing to frantically search for our MH370. There are so many theories emerging. All of us have no clue which is the truth and which is not. But, we remain united in our hopes and prayers. Miracles do happen. 

    It has been many days since I watched any Tamil movie. I am craving to watch some good ones. There have been a few, of lately, I believe. Plan to. Soon. And, yes, I have ones that I would recommend, you guys would be on priority list.

    Flying is immensely tiring. That is a big lesson I learned during my last vacation. I flew six times, this time around. Penang - Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur - New Delhi. New Delhi - Varanasi. And return. The Malaysian flights by, Malaysian Airlines, of course. I am an Enrich member - the frequent flyer program for Malaysian Airlines passengers. In India, we flew Air India, which was, so-so. :-( So, if you are in the aviation industry, and fly more often than any of us, you truly deserve a big pat on the back. You guys must be super heroes, to have flying as a career. Stay blessed. 

    I have thousands of photos. Really. A thousand in my camera. And a thousand more in my i-Pad. I have posted some. I am sharing it with all of you, via my google+ account. It can be viewed by everyone.
    This is the link.
    https://plus.google.com/photos/117957479703928411446/albums/5991372512569452513

    Off to clean the room. 
    Shabaaaa..... (Vadivelu style  :-P)

    See you this weekend. Hopefully.
    Meanwhile, take care and God Bless.

    And PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE tell that person you so, so LOVE VERY MUCH, how much you ACTUALLY do !!!!! Life is too short. Love is too beautiful. 
    A sms or email or Facebook message, if you are too shy.
    Or a phone call, if you are moderately hesitant.
    And, if you are Mr/Miss Braveheart, tell her/him over coffee. :-)
    Deal ?

    Stay blessed. 
    Tata. :-)

    Monday, March 10, 2014

    Pray for MH370..... The missing Malaysian Airlines flight bound toBeijing.....

    I am still in New Delhi. It's raining outside. And the weather is chilly. Despite me, wearing a long sleeve shirt and a black bomber jacket.
    We are all still hoping. Still praying. Still waiting. For a miracle. 
    For MH370 - the Beijing bound plane which never reached its destination. 
    God has his way of knocking sense into our brains. We are so caught up with fast growing technology and high tech gadgets and a career centered life. 
    It's at moments like these that we take time to appreciate how short life can be. 
    And, how we rarely take time to TRULY cherish and treasure loved ones. 

    I will be flying back soon. 
    I am not afraid. There is no phobia. 
    No pteromerhanophobia. 
    Pteromerhanophobia - otherwise known as a fear of flying. 
    Really? Yes. Really. Maybe 0.05%. Tiny jitters. That's all.

    Why? Reasons, a few. 

    Mom is with me. We are flying back home - together. She will be by my side, throughout the journey. 
    She carried me in her womb for 10 months. She was my saviour then. She is my saviour now. She will be my saviour, always. 
    An infant feels safest in the embrace of their mother. 
    A crying child feels consoled when their mother carries them. 
    At this point of age, just holding on to her hands, calms me wondrously. 
    If I were to return to the Almighty, then, so be it. I have her with me. Having her beside me in the last moments of my life, would be a perfect ending to the beautiful life I have lived so far. 
    Mothers are God's greatest gift to us. The human form of the Almighty. They will never hurt us, even if we do them. That great, they are. 
    Adore them. Cherish them. Love them. A mother is God's way of telling us, He is always with us, no matter how unruly we get.
    I have Amma with me, and this itself makes me safe....

    God gave us this life. He has all right to take it back. I accept whatever fate He has in store for me. Bathing in the Ganges and touching the holiest Shivlingam in Kaasi Viswanath temple has tranquillized my soul. Varanasi has totally changed my outlook on life, and love. 

    I am still at the hotel room. Glued to our TV. BBC has been playing day and night. Nothing has been confirmed. We are all hoping for a miracle. 

    The massive search mission has grown to 45 ships and 34 aircraft, more than 48 hours after the plane first disappeared off the radar. 239 passengers and crew on board. Nearly two-thirds of the 227 passengers on the plane are from China, with others from the US, Ukraine, France and other countries.

    The entire nation is praying. The world is, too. 
    Collective prayers can create wonders. Read about it, somewhere.
    It does not matter that they are strangers. 
    Praying for the well being of another, is a good deed.
    Please help us, fellow Malaysians, pray for the safe return of all these 239 people. 
    Your prayers and thought, will be of much help.

    Hail - the power of collective prayer !!!
    Have them in your thoughts for a millisecond.
    Hold them in your prayers in a minute of silence. 
    Prayers do wonders.....

    Take care. God bless.

    With love from New Delhi,
    -Shalu-

    p/s - reading this to console and appease the worried heart. The 12 noon Malaysian time press conference confirmed that no sightings of air plane debris found. So, let's continue to pray for the miracle. God bless. God bless. God bless.




    Saturday, March 8, 2014

    With love from - from Jaipur, Rajasthan.

    Hello everyone. 
    Hope you are all doing fine.
    I am fine, too.
    A little flu and sore throat. 
    But I am looking at the brighter side, and making the best of the remaining days of my vacation.
    New Delhi was freezing cold when I arrived. We were shivering when we visited the famous Akshardham Temple. The winter jacket was not of much help. 
    Guess, we are summer people. The ones that love the sun and it's shine.
    Varanasi was a dream. Found immense serenity and tranquility, while I was there. It was an out of the world feeling. 
    I bathed in the Ganges River. It was clean - unlike the scary tales, that many tell.  
    I went to the revered Kaasi Visvanath temple and touched the sacred Shivlinga. It was one of the greatest feelings ever. 
    I also watched the Ganga Arti.
    Varanasi is pure beauty. Really. It is. 
    Do not be deceived by the stuff you read or see or hear. You have to feel this city for yourself. 
    Go when you are young and able. When you can experience and sense it's true charm. 
    We also visited Taj Mahal. The Taj Mahal. A monument of love ? I do not know. 
    But, I was amazed by its architecture. It is a marvel. Paying INR750 as entrance fee, is minimal, in comparison to their maintenance charges. 
    And - Jaipur, Rajasthan. 
    Jaipur, the pink city, is whimsical. There are forts everywhere. And they are all magnificent, huge and beautiful. Amer Fort, is one. We spent about 3 hours there and it was still not enough. 
    I will post the pictures soon. There are lots of them. Sharing is always beautiful.
    My sister took this picture of me. I love its openness. 
    It was taken yesterday in Amer Fort. The white arches and the green steel chairs go hand in hand. 
    I am still on vacation. Writing this in the hotel room. It's still very cold outside. I have a grey sweater on but it's not helping much. Want to make a hot cup of coffee. The rest of the family, are enjoying a Tamil movie on tv.
    Take care. God bless.
    Will be back in home grounds real soon.

    Love from Jaipur, Rajasthan
    -Shalu-

    Wednesday, February 19, 2014

    I am off on a long holiday !! Please take care, while I am away !!

    Hello everyone !!!!!
    This is going to be a very short and quick post. 
    The thought is WHAT that counts most. :-)

    My long awaited vacation is just days away.
    I will be flying out of Malaysia for a long holiday.
    The excitement has yet to build up. It will, soon. As at now, not yet, though.

    I am busy with last minute stuff. 
    My-To-Do-List. Ticking. Unticking. Argh :-)
    The packing, which is the biggest of chores, has yet to start. :-)

    My best best guy friend has been admitted. For a liver transplant. I have been worried sick but constantly keeping him in my prayers. He is someone you can count on, at any given time. We have had our share of crazy times. We still do. But, it has been a while, now. All I want is for him to come back safe and sound. Hale and healthy. Cracked and crazy. 
    His name is Jimmy Ang. And, we have been friends since the time we started of as Research Analysts. He is also a part time professional photographer. 
    Please pray for him, too. It is said that prayers move mountains. I believe in it. 
    Help me move the mountain for his speedy recovery, yeah. 
    It will not cost you a single cent - just a millisecond. That's all.

    Love is beautiful, when spread and shared.
    No matter how busy the day, make time for your loved ones. 
    Life is too short to glorify the art of being buried in work. 
    Really. Think about it.....

    I will try to post while I am vacationing. Will try. 
    You all take care.
    Stay blessed.

    p/s - This is a shot of my FB timeline. Jim, Jes & me - at this cool restaurant in Penang named Malabar. 
    We are three peas in a pod. Jim is the XY one. We are the XX ones. :-) 
    He has been bugging me to treat him at Penang's most posh restaurants. The China House. Or The Suffolk House. Or Sarkies E&O. 
    I have been running away from the invitations because it will burn a big hole in my pocket. 
    Right now, I am willing to have a foodie trail with him and Jes - at all three. 
    Really. All I want is for him to have a speedy recovery. 
    I want him to be hale and healthy. I want to hear him laugh the loudest..... 
    That is how he is. The soul of the party. 

    This is to Jim. Jimmy Ang. My bestie. With prayers that you get well soon. God Bless.

    ~Shalu~

    Sunday, February 2, 2014

    DATE AN INDIAN GIRL WHO TRAVELS !!!!

    Today's post is an inspiration from this page. 
    http://stephabroad.com/date-girl-travels/
    A friend had posted this on my Facebook news feed. It was such an eye opener, in retrospect to the one against, trending on Huffington Post. 
    The last three days were hectic, in a joyful manner. Three days of pure rest and relaxation with close friends and family. The nation is celebrating the Chinese Lunar New Year.
    Yes, it's back to work tomorrow. But, there is a consolation, after all. My vacation is just weeks away. And, yes, I am super, super excited. 

    So, here we go :-
    Date the Indian girl who travels. Why ?

    • She, too, has a twinkle in her eyes. Yes, she does. She is constantly dreaming and devising her next vacation. Her imagination is larger than life.
    • She cares less about money. Yes. It is about those quaint roads, the local joints, the street food, the beaches, the lakes, the gardens, the mountains. Everything that does not require your credit card. She is simple and is content that way.
    • She IS homely. Believe me. She carries her home in her heart. And makes her visiting town or city, her second one. She fits well, anywhere. And, she enjoys being a local, for the moment. She loves the serenity of the temple. And, the peacefulness of the sea side. 
    • She is hardworking. She is thrifty. Because she knows, she has to save money for her much anticipated travels - all through the year. And, yes - a well traveled labour is better equiped mentally and physically.
    • She is full of surprises. She is. She is. She is. And, she loves to be surprised, as well. She makes the best of smallest of marvels. She is an ace at finding places. She is happy just looking at things. From colonial buildings to ancient architecture.
    • She is all round and versatile. She is willing if you have a great plan. She is ready to pack her bags on a Friday evening and hitch the last bus to her favourite beach town. She is ready to hop on the scooter and ride uphill to view the city skyline at night. She is ready to spend her weekend at the rural village. She is game for anything pleasant.
    • She is awesome at conversations. Believe me. She is honest. She speaks her heart. She is well read. She is heartily traveled. She has a hundred stories to share. She will know when to cheer you up. She will know when to hold your hand and enjoy the silence. She will always be there for you. Because, she knows how beautiful, "Welcome" sounds and how poignant, "Goodbyes" are. 
    • She is independent and strong. She loves her individuality. She loves her strength. She enjoys her privacy BUT loves your company. 
    So YES, 

    • NEXT TIME, JOIN HER. TRAVEL DEFINITELY BONDS YOU TO HER.

    Signing off - with a pat on my heart. Yes, I am vacationing soon. 
    I love to travel. And, I will be doing exactly, that.
    If you are already travelling or plan to, in the near future - Happy Travelling.
    If you are yet to - plan something. Anything. A weekday drive to the museum. A weekend trip to the little town in the next state. 
    Anything that needs you to, travel HAPPILY.

    Go have a great week. 
    Smile over everything. God is watching. Everything will be fine, with passing time. Just keep faith. Just heartily pray.
    See you around.
    Till then - take care & God Bless.

    Love always,
    ~Shalu~

    p/s- this is an English number. I am breaking norm. I love the song. Such an eccentric voice.

    Tuesday, January 28, 2014

    The quintessential "in love" scenario ~ Me, Myself & I. Penjakaa Mazhai from Kangaroo.

    Case Study : Me, Shalu.
    Case Characterization : A typical Indian at heart. An ethnic Chennaite, in soul. 
    Offbeat Note : Born and bred in Malaysia. My soul, resides in Tamil Nadu, though. In all 130,058 km² of it. 
    Proclamation : This post is all about me, and no one else. It concerns MY manner of behavior, when struck by Cupid's arrow. It is not intended to offend, anyone, at any point. 

    ♥1 I wear a LOT of Indian traditional attire. 

    Churidhars Suits, Kurtis and Sarees. 
    REALLY. I cannot explain the logic, but this is how it is for me. 
    Cotton churidhar suits and kurtis with jeans, being my favourite - on dates. 
    With anklets and bangles and jhumkas. 
    And, one of my many Indian Jolna bags, in hand. 
    I associate it with comfort. 
    I feel complacent. I feel at home.
    Nothing glitzy. Nothing gaudy. 
    Something pleasant and makes me feel a million.

    ♥2 I have no fringe. I have a side parting hairstyle. I have a red pottu and the thiruneer, on my forehead.

    Another of of my "love" theories.
    If you see me in an attire as described in ♥1♥ combined with ♥2♥, then you can be like 95% sure, it is him, beside me. 
    If you see me, alone - then, it is the presence and aura, he has left behind and the fact that I am happily, reeling from it. 
    My hair is neatly pinned or pulled to the back of my ears, with a drop of hair oil.
    A red pottu. Any given time. A pledge to him.
    The thiruneer. The holy ash. 
    The reminder of the presence of God. 
    The enhancement of the next door girl persona.
    Unassuming.

    ♥3♥ I become genuinely concerned. The "motherly" effect.

    It is a sincere and genuine feeling.
    I am constantly asking him to take care, of himself.
    I am advising him to be safe on the road. 
    I am worried about his health. 
    I am a little anxious about the amount he spends working. 
    I steadily pray for him and his well being. 
    I keep him, in my heart, my thought and my soul - at all times.
    With him, I am governed by this "motherly" qualities.

    ♥4♥ I wait. Patiently.

    For everything.
    His phone calls.
    His sms'.
    His Facebook messages.
    His e-mails. (he has yet to send me "ANY" :-), but I am smiling anyway)
    Our short meetings.
    Our dates.
    Our outings.
    Anything, from him.
    It's a wonder how I have become so tolerant and accepting. 
    It's a surprise how I do not make it an issue.
    He dignifies me. 
    Yes, he does.

    ♥5♥ I tend to talk a lot. Gracious and mannerly.

    Yes, I do.
    Talk more than usual.
    Not just with people close and around me.
    But, to pets and plants, as well.
    To, Dodo, the Labrador Retriever mix breed.
    To, Michael, the puppy. 
    To Jerry, the Arowana fish.
    To the Tulsi plant, in Amma's garden.
    To my potted palm leaves and ferns.
    To the blooming roses and jasmines.
    To the stars, the skies and the seas.
    To myself.
    And, I sing and hum, too - lots of Illayaraja's.
    And, I pay huge attention to its lyrics.

    ♥6♥ I constantly steal glances of him. 

    Lots. 
    I like to look at him. 
    In person.
    In photos.
    Be it a brief gaze. Or a long stare. 
    When he is not looking - innumerable times.
    When caught - I blush nervously and bloom with a smile.
    When we are in a sea of crowd.
    When it's just the both of us.
    The want to look at him is huge but never sufficient.
    And, when I catch him, looking at me - my heart races and sprints and somersaults.

    Yes. This is how I am, when in love. Things I have discovered.....
    So, when you see me with all these traits - ehem, ehem, you know, huh ?

    This is a "semma" song.....
    The quintessential "in love" song, for now.....
    The AWESOME lyrics are by the great Padma Bushan Vairamuthu.....
    Introduced to it during my favourite TV show, Super Singer 4 on Vijay TV.

    Stay blessed.