Today's heat was subdued.

Got up at 6, we went through the chores and opened up the house for the day.

The maid took leave as she was laid up due to her fall yesterday, in our balcony.

Work initiated at Raj Nivas in our room.

Mini informs us about Syamala being with her for studying her class X exams.

The physiotherapist also took a day off.

Lunch.

Watched two episodes of Crime Patrol. So, no siesta.

Lekha goes to town for purchases and comes back within an hour.

Tailpieces.

Today's heat was subdued thanks to the early morning showers. 

Another quiet day!

Got up at 6, went through the chores and had opened up the house for the day.

The maid came in by a half past 9.

It was Maman's birthday and both of us wished him many happy returns.

There was 'Narayaneeyam paaraayanam', at the Foundation, followed by a high lunch!

The physiotherapist came in by about a half past 12 and finished his work before lunchtime.

Lunch.

Watched an episode of Crime Patrol followed by siesta.

The evening chores.

Tailpiece.

Roy and his assistant had come by to rectify a defective light.

A nice day!

Got up at our usual time, went through our chores and opened up the house for the day.

Yesterday, Rema and Padmakumar had told us that they would be dropping by to meet us, today. Accordingly, they were here by 9, having left Thrippunithura at 6!

Yakkittiyak, all through!

The maid had also come by but she couldn't get fish, which was a faux pas. Rema loves it!

The physiotherapist had dropped by at a half past 11.

A boisterous  lunch!

Shakir Jacob had called after seeing the Padmasenans with us and he'd come to know of my surgery today!

Rema and Padmakumar had returned to Thrippunithura by a half past 3.

A quiet evening thereafter.

Tailpiece.

The guests, dropping by, have increased lately!

Another new week!

Got up at our usual time, went through the early morning chores and we opened up the house for the day. 

The maid was at work.

Padmasenan and Sujatha were the surprise visitors who spent about a couple of hours with us. Damn sweet of them, after eliciting a promise from us that we should stay at their place when we fetch up at Kochi, next.

Worked on my laptop.

The physiotherapist had come by to look after Lekha.

Lunch followed by siesta.

Preethi had returned my trouser. Her tailor had come and quietly placed it at the front porch.

A quiet evening thereafter!

Tailpiece.

Indira kunjamma and Aniyan had called. Rema, too. 

A fast-moving Sunday.

Last night we'd decided to get up leisurely this morning, being a Sunday but when the chimes of the clock struck 6, we sprang out of bed. Went through the chores and opened up the house for the day.

The maid came by, as usual. Since the workload wasn't much, she used to come for work on alternate days, earlier.

We both were ready at our usual time. Fruits and lassi for stand easy. 

Worked on my laptop.

Lunch.

The physiotherapist came around 3 and completed his session.

A quiet evening, thereafter.

Tailpiece.

No rain as predicted and consequently, the Mercury has risen. 

The showers and the aftermath.

It was raining cats and dogs during the wee hours of the morning. Consequently, the oppressive heat was subdued.

We'd got up at our usual time, gone through the chores and opened up the house for the day.

The maid was at work.

Fruits and lassi for stand easy, as is the routine these days.

Shiril, the physio, fetched up a trifle before 12 and went through Lekha's treatment. Can see the visible changes in her.

Lunch.

Saw two episodes of Crime Patrol on television.

Siesta.

The evening chores.

The nurse comes at 10 PM, these days, to administer the insulin.

Tailpiece.

Babu Sahadev had called up from Toronto, inquiring about my progress. Called up Padmakumar too.  

Got things done.

Got up at our usual time, the chores and we opened up the house for the day.

Today was the day, last year, that Sanil had left us. Mini had organised food for his family who'd arrived at Ayur for the prayer function. She'd organised an outside caterer for the breakfast and lunch that were served. From her family, both Rema and I had to stay away because of our medical compulsions!

The maid was at work.

Joboy, the Pure Flames rep, finally fetched up to carry out servicing of the cooking range.  

Shiril commenced the first day's physiotherapy on Lekha. She seems to be much better subsequently.

Allan, from Harisree and Sajith, from National supermarkets, respectively, came and delivered the grocery.

A quiet evening, thereafter!

Tailpiece.

How quickly a year has passed?! All pending jobs completed.

Lekha's dad's 9th Remembrance day.

Got up at our usual time and we'd the house opened for the day.

The nurse and the maid came by for their work. The Fiasp pen got over today and the nurse will come over the next few days only at 10 PM to administer the Tresiba insulin. Have put myself on medicines.

Today's Lekha's dad's 9th remembrance day.

The following jobs got done today :-

     * the door of the foot locker in the work area was replaced

     * the stoppers of the mosquito proofing of our master bedroom were fixed

Phew; these were long pending.

Shiril, the physiotherapist, had come by and he'll begin Lekha's treatment from tomorrow.

Lekha gets her chain-with-pearls sorted out. She'd gone to Chavakkad, after teatime, for the purpose. 

Tailpiece.

The Lok Sabha had passed the Waqf Amendment Bill by 0200 hrs this early morning.

A few things accomplished!

Got up at our usual time, the chores and we'd opened up the house for the day.

Lekha had carried out the usual Wednesday morning aarathi!

The nurse, followed by the maid, had dropped by to carry out their tasks.

Fruits and lassi for stand easy.

The carpenter was the first to arrive after that. A sliding cabinet of the kitchen, the door knob of the kitchen and the steadying handle in the lower rest room were fixed.

Geeverghese, the plumber along with his assistant, Albin, came to rectify the water motor defect.

Lunch and siesta.

Lekha had gone to town for the following after tea :-

    * booking the 'thil homam' - at the Perunthatta Siva kshetram - in her dad's name as tomorrow is 

       his remembrance day.

    * repairing the pressure cooker.

    * buying grocery and vegetables from the supermarket.

Narayanan and Rema dropped by to see me. Damn sweet of the!

Tailpiece.

A less warm day than yesterday because of the night showers.

The debate on the Waqf Amendment Act in both houses of the parliament, on at 2100 hrs.

Got connected up, finally!

Got up at our usual time, the chores and we opened up the house for the day.

Wished Indira kunjamma many happy returns.

The nurse, followed by the maid, dropped by for their tasks.

Fruits and lassi for stand easy.

Had to get four things sorted out viz. :-

     * contact the Eureka Forbes guys regarding the servicing of our Aquaguard.

     * contact Naufal for fixing up the foot-locker door in the work area.

     * contact Nandan for repairing one of the racks of the kitchen.

     * contact Roy, the plumber, for the repair of the water motor.

Got through to all of them and have fixed up the schedules for defect rectification over the next few days, within this week.

Maman had gone across to Kollam this morning. On his return, he'd called up from Mini's house at Ayur to say that the new board of the JSS, Kollam has been cleared by the Skill Development ministry. Chambu has been appointed as Programming Officer.

A quiet evening.

Tailpiece.

Hope all the defects are liquidated within this week itself.

The problem needs to be tackled....

Got up at our usual time, the chores and we opened up the house for the day. Ascertained from Salini that Chittamma and gang had reached back at Kunninpuram by a half past 1, last night.

The nurse, followed by the maid, had dropped by, in succession, to do their respective work. 

Called up Roy, the plumber, to have the defect on our water motor's inlet pipe rectified.

Bath, followed by fruits and lassi for stand easy.

Sat down and finished up my mail for the month of March, by lunchtime.

Lunch and siesta.

Followed up by rectifying the mistakes I'd made in forwarding the mail.

A quiet evening.

Roy gave me the ditch and the defect on the motor continues to remain!

My relatives drop by.

Got up at our usual time, the chores and we opened up the house for the day. The nurse came by earlier than normal to administer the insulin.

The maid was given a day off by Lekha as the temple, near her house, was celebrating its annual festivities.

Fruits and lassi at stand easy time.

A scrumptious lunch by Lekha. We also saw Rajnikant's 'Jailer' on television. It was watchable! Followed it up with Tovino's 'Anveshippin kandethum'.

Siesta. 

A boisterous evening. Omanakkuttan, Aniyan and Ambili had dropped by. The former two had come by to attend a wedding out here.

Leela chittamma, Salini, Vivek and Lakshmi had dropped by. They were late!

Tailpiece.

Met all of them with masks on.

A sizzling Saturday!

Lekha and I had got up at our usual time, gone through the chores and had opened up the house for the day. The nurse had come by at her usual time and administered the first dose of insulin.

A scrumptious breakfast, followed by bath and grooming. The maid was at work.

Went through my mail for the month and added up the essentials and worked on my laptop.

A short nap before lunch.

Rajish has gone back, reports Aniyan.

Tailpiece.

Depressing news about the devastation brought in by the quake in Myanmar and Bangkok. India's relief work, codenamed 'Operation Brahma', has commenced. IAF aircraft land in Mayanmar with food, medicines and relief material. The Disaster Relief team has also been positioned. 

To Kochi and back.

Our day had begun, this morning, at 4. Lekha had quickly gone about her chores and we were ready by much before 6. Sajish, our chauffeur for the day, came at 6 and we kicked off at 10' past 6.

We'd our breakfast at Elayathu near Mathilakam. Both of us had idlis and sambar.

We reached Padmanabha Shenoy's Care at a half past 9. Lekha was dropped there for her review while Sajish took me to Satish Bhat's clinic at Panampilli Nagar by a quarter to 10. Went about my review and after the present pens of insulin - both Fiasp and Tresiba - get over, I shall be on oral medicines as advised by him.

He has also asked me to consult a Gastroenterologist to check my liver.

Captain Murali Nair had come by to meet me, we talked for a while and he handed over to me our new canteen smart cards. After my medical was over, we returned to Shenoy Care to pick up Lekha after her review. we'd lunch at the Aryaa's at the end of that service road.

We, then, went across to the Titan showroom on the broad way to hand over Lekha's watch. Hope to get a suitable action from them.

We commenced our return to Guruvayur and were back at Guruvayur by 1700 hrs.

The nurse came by to administer the 7 o'clock insulin.

Tailpiece.

It was a nice, short trip.

A quiet evening thereafter.

Limbering up for tomorrow.

Got up at our usual time and Lekha and I opened up the house for the day.

The Rajah medical team came in - first time - by a quarter to 7, to draw my blood for the 'fasting blood sugar'. Ajitha came in soon after to administer the first dose of insulin for the day. Went thro' the chores and was ready for the second visit of the team (around a quarter to 10) to draw my blood for the 'post prandial blood sugar'.

The results were 90/176. Bina and Nithya, Gifty and Renu did their jobs well!

Renjoo, the PCI rep, had dropped by to carry out the quarterly servicing of the house.

Lunch after the afternoon dose of insulin. Sajish - he's gonna be our chauffeur for tomorrow - came by around 2, took our Chevy to the Rajah petrol pump to top it up with fuel and check tyre pressure. He'd washed it down thoroughly and the Chevy has attained its original gleam!

After siesta, we'd got all the relevant papers ready for tomorrow's visit to the doctors - Lekha, to Padmanabha Shenoy for her quarterly medical review and me to Satish Bhat - to see as to whether I could be taken off insulin and put on oral medicines instead.

Will be meeting Captain Murali Nair, to collect our new 'Canteen smart cards'.

Should be back by late afternoon. Also hope to h/o Lekha's watch to the Titan showroom.

An active day.

Got up at our usual time, the chores and we'd opened up the house for the day by a quarter past 6. The nurse had come by soon after and administered the morning round of insulin. A sumptuous breakfast from Lekha after the mandatory half an hour break!

Helped Lekha through her grooming and had my bath, subsequently. Fruits and lassi at 10, followed by light reading and working on my laptop.

A very short nap before my second insulin, followed by lunch.

Watched Crime Patrol and a light siesta.

The evening was quiet.

The tapping of our rubber trees is gonna start from tomorrow: Rajan, the tapper, has initiated the work today. Manure has been put and the trees have been readied with the rubber-milk-collection put in place. Sent him his dues in advance.

A quiet evening thereafter!

Remembering Sanil.

Today's Sanil's first Remembrance Day by the Malayalam calendar. One year has passed away so quickly since his passing away due to a liver ailment.

His only daughter, Ammu, is away in San Francisco on work. The day's ceremony was carried out in a temple nearby where Mini, Rema and Padmakumar had attended. Lekha and I were the only close family that had stayed back because of my medical condition, post surgery.

Lekha and I'd got up at our usual time, gone through the chores and carried out our day's affairs.

The maid was at work and the nurse made her visits, as were required.

Lekha went over to Kent Clinic, at Kunnamkulam, to get her ear checked up at a half past 3. Sukesan had come by with his autorickshaw. She had returned satisfied and after doing sundry purchases.

A quiet evening thereafter.

  

My sisters at Ayur.

Got up at a trifle before 6, the chores and we went about our morning work accordingly. The nurse came at her appointed hour, administered the medical nailing and returned.

A good breakfast and after a break, worked on my laptop. A session of fruits and lassi, consequently.

Fixed up with the Rubber co-operative and the proposed tapper and plans were put in place to commence the sale of the rubber milk to the co-operative from Thursday.

Rema and Padmakumar are spending the night at Mini’s house to be part of the puja in connection with Sanil’s 1st Remembrance Day, tomorrow as per the Malayalam calendar. 

Time has really flown!

A quiet Sunday.

Got up at our usual time and we had the house, thrumming with action as usual.

Mini had gone, along with Mithun, to Thiruvananthapuram for her medical review. The doctor is satisfied with her progress.

The nurse came by and administered the insulins at the times laid down.

The maid was at work.

A quiet Sunday otherwise. 

Actions taken.

Got up at our usual time, the chores, the lamp was lit in the puja room and the devotional music was switched on.

The sister came by a trifle after 7, administered the insulin and went away. Breakfast and bath followed; had my stand easy of fruits and lassi.

Ramesan, the gardener and his assistant carried out the remainder of the monthly work. The maid did her job and Lekha’s friend, Seena came by, post-lunch, for grooming.

Spoke to Dr Mallan regarding Lekha’s dental treatment. He’ll give me a call after fixing up the necessary things.

She will also meet Dr Rani Menon on Tuesday.

Her medical review with Dr Padmanabha Shenoy is scheduled for the 28th.

A quiet evening thereafter.

Going ahead!

Got up at our usual time, went through the chores and were ready on time.

The biggest news was the way the Supreme Court Collegium transferred a Delhi High Court judge to the Allahabad High Court on supposedly different reasons. It was in this judge's house that unaccounted money (to the tune of 15 crores) was found by the fire service people when they'd gone in to douse a fire! And the top court says that the transfer has nothing to do with the sordid findings!

The insulins were taken for the day and the jobs of the day were carried out.

The maid was at work.

The morning had begun with us wishing Rema, my sister, many happy returns. Came to know that my aunt, Indira kunjamma, also shares the same date of birth with my sister. Wished her many happy returns too!

The day was quite hot!

   

A normal day.

Got up at our usual time, with Lekha lighting the lamp as I switched on the devotional music on the television. The sister had come around a trifle after 7 to administer the insulin.

Sajish had come in by a half past 7 to give me a haircut. Phew, my head felt lighter at the end of it. He’s off on a pilgrimage to Sabarimala early Apr. Lekha gave him a ‘dakshina’.

A quiet day thereafter. Aniyan had called.

A hot Wednesday!

Got up as usual, the chores and Lekha and I were on the same page. Early morning cuppa followed by the usual happenings.

The sister administered the morning insulin and after the mandatory break had breakfast.

The maid had come by, earlier than usual as she had meet her doctor.

Today’s the last day of the Guruvayur temple’s annual festivities.

A quiet evening thereafter!

Got things done.

Got up before 6, opened up the house with Lekha lighting the lamp in the puja room while I switched on the early morning devotional songs on the television. 

It was morning tea followed by the nurse’s visit for the insulin administration. The mandatory breather and my breakfast. Lekha had her’s soon after and then went for her medical review with Dr (Mrs) Sodhi.

My bath followed by the work on the laptop. Attended to a few phone calls and had stand easy of green apple, gooseberry and buttermilk.

A quiet afternoon and siesta.

Earlier the pressman, Selvam had returned from his leave and pressed a sizeable backlog of clothes.

Tailpiece.

Yet to pinpoint the whereabouts of Sangeeta Goil. Meelu is trying to get me the information.

My laptop is back.

The day had begun as usual. Lekha and I had begun the day together.

The nurse had come by, on the dot, to administer the insulin.

Later, spoke to Satish Bhat regarding substituting insulin with medicines and have fixed 24 Mar as the date when we meet. That's when Lekha meets Dr Padmanabha Shenoy for her review.

It was a quiet day.

Pradeep brought my laptop in the afternoon.

Lekha’s sister comes by.

Dateline 15 Mar

Preetha, Lekha’s younger sister, had fetched up from Tirur this evening. This was to facilitate their darshan of Guruvayurappan during the annual temple festivities. The ‘tantric’ is known to the family.

The evening was full of activities and it was yakkitiyak covering all subjects under the sun!

Bruno’s 22nd Remembrance Day.

22 years back, at around a quarter past 6 in the morning Bruno, our pet Doberman, passed into the mist of time. We used to stay at 9/97, Arjan Vihar at Delhi Cantt.

Had taken him for his customary walk in the morning. He was I’ll for the past one week and I used to take him to the vet at the Rashtrapathy Bhavan, to administer medicines.

That morning, I’d set him on the ground, removed his collar and chain and muttered, “Bruno, you can run wherever you want and once you’ve finished, I’ll take you back”. I walked back a few paces from him and pranced around….,.however, he didn’t move an inch, continued with his fixed gaze on me.

Was he laughing at my ignorance about the terrible pain  that was going to befall us by his impending departure from us? 

Since he didn’t show any inclination to move, I’d taken him in my arms and went up the stairs and somewhere in between, there was a tug and his face that was looking at me - all the while - just went slack and rolled down lifelessly against my body.

Lekha and Maman were sad.

Epilogue.

He was buried, behind the block, with us in attendance at around a half past 10. Bunty and Babli helped us to plant floral and fruit-bearing trees at that time.

Tailpiece.

Remembered him and his delightful capers. The pain of his departure continues to dwell deep within us, even today. 

Adieu Group Captain Deepak Verma!

Dateline 14 Mar

Deepak Verma, three courses senior to me and my Squadron mate in the NDA was wheeled into the cardiac OT, of the Army Hospital - R&R, New Delhi -for an open heart bypass surgery yesterday morning. Post surgery, there were complications leading to organ failure and he passed into the mist of time, soon after.

A thorough gentleman and a genial senior, I remember him to be a helpful guy.

Adieu sir! My salute, tears and prayers. Here’s wishing your family the strength to tide over these trying times.

A welcome drizzle!

Dateline 13 Mar

It was a sizzling Lt hot day. Sometime toward noon, it drizzled rather heavily bringing about he much needed respite from the heat. Consequently, the night was quite cold.

Our Labernum has bloomed again!!

The Labernum at our courtyard has bloomed yet again. Last year it hadn’t flowered and on 25 Apr 2024, we lost Sanil due to his liver ailment. This time, therefore, we were wondering as to why it hadn’t shown signs of flowering. This morning, Lekha and the maid had seen quite a few clusters of the golden yellow flowers dotting the tree!

Got up at our usual time, went down to be with Lekha and in the process, had tea and took in the morning insulin injection.

Lekha had an early bath and did our Wednesday morning aa'rathi of the house. Breakfast at my usual time.

I was given my bath and the morning break's fruits and lassi.

Paid the KWA's water bill for the month.

RK Singh followed by Aniyan had called. Usha ammayi has gone to Thirupathi temple for darshan. She has shorned off her hair!

Afternoon lunch with a dash of Guruvayur temple's 'annual festivities' prasaadam' which was relished. Our gardener, Ramesan had brought it for us. Damn sweet of  him!

Tailpiece.

The evening drizzle brought the temperatures down, albeit for a short while.

A few jobs done.

Got up at our usual times, the chores and we began another new day. Lekha took a tumble in her room and thankfully there were no problems.

She met Dr (Mrs) Sodhi for her review. She has been provided with medicines for another five days.

Judiciously used the a/cs of the upper and the lower floors. Skipped the siesta to watch the Crime Patrol; Lekha had a good snooze instead.

After tea, Lekha had gone across to our ration stand to collect our dues for the month.

Wrote a post to Dr Mallan regarding our next meeting.

A quiet evening.

Ramachandrettan had called to know about my medical condition.

Tailpiece.

The caretaker has tied up with the local well-washers to wash down our well and tank at Raj Nivas. Another hot day!

The beginning of a new week.

Had got up at 6, the chores and similarly was Lekha as the house came alive with the morning sounds.

 

The nurse came at the appointed time, administered the insulin and left.

Had my breakfast at 8. Lekha had given me my bath at 9.

Ramesh, the gardener, had cleared the dried up palm and replaced it with a new plant that looks cute. The balcony looks good now. Told the maid that such callousness of not caring for the plants was unacceptable and I've slapped a fine on her to ensure that such mistakes never recur.

Roy, the electrician had come by to work on the inverter. Only hope that the error is on the change over switch!

The days continue to be warm and sizzling!

Spoke to Maman and Shekhar, who's planning to visit Guruvayur, on 07 May, to attend a friend's wedding.  

Tailpiece.

By 1930 hrs, Roy and his assistant, Vivek had installed the new inverter.

 

A quiet but warm Sunday!

Got up as usual, with Lekha opening up the ground floor while I did the first. Watched the musical program Rangoli after a long time.

Breakfast was by 8 and Lekha had given me my bath at 9. The surgical wound is healing slowly and steadily.

Gopi chittappan and gang didn't fetch up as they didn't want to 'give' us infection!

Lekha's cough has reduced in intensity but her voice has got subdued. She'll have to meet Dr (Mrs) Sodhi tomorrow, for review.

Tailpiece.

Paid the first instalment to the nurse.

Another quiet day!

The day began as usual; with me switching on the hymns at the top while Lekha started up her activities down below.

The nurse and the maid hade dropped by to do their work.

Our neighbours sent us a basket of apples.

Calls from the Banjos, Gopi chittappan-Jayanthi kunjamma and Rajasekharan-Indira.

A quiet Saturday! 

A hot day!

Today was an extremely hot day.

Got up at 6, the chores and switched on the devotional songs on television while Lekha had lit the lamp at the puja room. The nurse came a trifle late to administer the insulin. A walk on the courtyard after breakfast.

The interim maid had come to work. What I felt bad was that one of the potted plants at our balcony has dried up and withered away. Lack of proper attention and no water had caused its destruction. I hate this sort of callousness.

Had the windows closed around afternoon as hot air was coming in. And definitely, things got to be better.   

A quiet day!

Got up at my usual time but decided to turn off to sleep for some more time and that made me get up late. 

Ajitha came in earlier than usual and administered the morning dosage of insulin. Lekha met Dr (Mrs) Sodhi for her cough.

The maid was at work.

Roy, the electrician, fixed our inverter and he'd come in before lunch.

Back at The Quarterdeck.

Got up at my usual time, the chores and was ready well in time. 

Kannan arrived at 1200 hrs and we'd set off for Guruvayur half an hour later. The journey was smooth; all the problems about the rear tyre being distorted was dispelled without doubt.

We reached Guruvayur by about 1600 hrs; Lekha had gone around to the bank, then to the Harisree supermarket for purchases and to the fruit shop at the western entrance of the temple.

Reached The Quarterdeck and Kannan helped us to put our things into their appropriate places.

Ajitha, a nurse, had come by 1930 hrs to administer insulin at a half past 7. So, that thing has been settled!

Lekha had provided a multi-dimensional dinner and it was yummy!

Tailpiece.

Nice to be back home. For the last month, Padmakumar and Rema looked after us damn well. God bless them!

   

The review.

Got up at our usual time, the chores and the four of us set off for the Amrita Hospital, by an Uber taxi, by a half past 7. It was on reaching the ECHS extension at the Attrium that I realised my faux pas - had not collected a new 'referral' from our polyclinic at Kunnamkulam.

Without wasting time, I decided to avail of the facility as an out patient and shelled out the expenses.

 

Went through a battery of blood tests, ECG, Echo and X-Ray before going across to the Endocrinology department regarding the rationalisation of my insulin intake.

 

Rema had administered me the lunchtime insulin before lunch.

 

Met Dr Rajesh Jose, who was happy to see my progress. The binder around the chest and the crepe bandage have been given the go by.

 

Returned by teatime.

 

 

Tailpiece.

 

Fixed up for returning to Guruvayur tomorrow. Kannan would reach around lunchtime to drive our Chevy back. Hope things go well, without hassles!   

Another quiet day!

Dateline 03 Mar. 

Got up at my usual time, the chores. Rema took my sugar readings and I, then, went for my customary 

walk on the balcony. On Lekha's egging, the exercises were pursued before having my breakfast.

 

Rema has been very diligently preparing food for me with care. Padmakumar has been carefully observant about how I slept during the course of the evening. 

 

Calls from many places regarding my health. Felt nice.

 

 

Tailpiece.

 

Four weeks have elapsed since my admission followed by surgery! Phew, time really flies. Thankfully, no hassles at all, thus far.

Limbering up for the review.

Getting ready for the medical review on the 4th. Hope all restrictions are removed then.

 

Monish brought in our car by about 11.

 

Lekha had taken an online advice from Dr Hareendrababu for her left eye. Hope it's nothing serious.

 

 

Tailpiece.

 

Our maid has been given appropriate instructions by Lekha, regarding our return.

The Social Worker's Day.

Today is the Ides of March!

 

Today is also the 116th birth anniversary of Shri PN Panicker, the father of the Kerala Library Movement and the architect of Kerala attaining 100% literacy in Apr '91.

 

On 14 Sep 1945, PN Panicker had organised a mammoth meeting at Ambalappuzha with the then Diwan of Travancore, Sir CP Ramaswamy Aiyar, inaugurating the event. 47 rural libraries had joined in the mega event. From then on, PN Panicker with scarce resources but with the goodwill of the people - despite heavy odds against him - kept working on his dream, "a library in every village in his state".

 

The Travancore Library Movement became the 'Thiru-Kochi Library Movement' in 1949 when the two princely states merged together and it further became the 'Kerala Library Movement' (Kerala Grandhasala Sangham) in 1956. 

 

When the Kerala Library Movement was celebrating its silver jubilee in 1970, PN Panicker had single-handedly set up a network of about 5,280 libraries all across the state. He used to travel across every nook and cranny of the state, often subsisting on bananas and tap water, sleeping on shop verandahs through the night!

 

Such was his personal commitment to the cause that he'd chosen!

 

During the silver jubilee celebrations, the common people asked him, "Sir, you've set up so many libraries all across the state but how do we benefit from them when we neither know how to read or write?" 

 

It was then that PN Panicker focused his attention on the Literacy Movement which culminated in his state attaining 100% literacy in Apr 1991.

 

PN Panicker's birth anniversary is celebrated as the ''Social Worker's Day"!    

Tailpiece.

 

The entire family, along with well wishers and friends, had gathered at the foot of Muthachchan's statue at Poojappura in Thiruvananthapuram to offer floral tributes around a half past 8. 

A quiet day!

Dateline 28 Feb

 

The month that was medically active for me came to an end as we get closer to the medical review on 04 Mar.

 

Hope much of the restrictions are relaxed so that things get easier.

 

The exercises and the medicine regime keep me going with careful observation and assistance from family.

 

 

Rounding off my work.

Dateline 27 Feb

 

Rounded off most of my work - for the month - before hitting the sack. Sleep, however, took its own time and I remember having heard the chimes at 2, past midnight!

 

Moderation was the name of the game.

 

The aches and the pains were slowly moving away.

  

Another day of rest and recuperation.

Yet another day of rest, recuperation, nutritious food and healthy environment all round.

The aches and the pains continue to recede.

 

Calls from friends and relatives made the day interesting.

At my sister's place.

Backdrop

Was admitted at the Amrita Hospital on 04 Feb. Lekha was with me and Rema and Padmakumar were at the Guest House close to us.

 

The open heart bypass surgery was conducted on me on 05 Feb. Three days at the ICU, followed by three days in the room and I was discharged on 11 Feb.

 

Have been at Rema and Padmakumar's flat at Thrippunithura since then.

 

The first medical review is on 04 Mar.  

Tailpiece.

 

Apologies for my long absence on account of my medical indisposition.

 

Pre-operative trials.

Got up at our usual time, the chores and was ready by 7. We quickly set off for Amrita and reached there before 8. 

After the registration formalities, went through the pre-operative tests and returned home before lunchtime.

A short siesta.

Went to see the Mammooty movie “Dominic and the lady’s purse” in a nearby cinema. It’s nice and I liked it.

A quiet evening!

At Kochi.

Dateline 02 Feb

At my sister, Rema’s place at Thrippunithura as a prelude to the surgery.

Budget 2025 - highlights.

General

  1. Kisan Credit Card limit enhanced from Rs.3 lakhs to 5 lakhs.

  2. Additional infra in 5 IITs set up after 2014. IIT Patna to be expanded.

  3. 10,000 more seats to be added in medical colleges next year and 75,000 in the next 5 years.

  4. Rs.500 cr for Centre for Excellence in AI.

  5. Social Welfare Scheme for GIG workers.

  6. Extension of Jal Jeevan Mission till 2028.

  7. Urban Challenge Fund of Rs.1 lakh crore.

  8. Green field airports to be facilitated in Bihar in addition to Patna airport.

  9. Rs.20,000 cr for Private Sector R&D.

10. Top 50 tourist destinations to be developed. Focus on destinations linked to Budha.

11. 'Heal in India' to be promoted.

12. FDI limit for insurance sector to be raised to 100% if entire premium invested in India.

13. Revamped KYC Registry to be rolled out.

14. Customs : Rationalise tariff structure.

15. 36 life saving drugs exempt from duty and 5% duty on 6 life saving drugs.

Direct and Indirect Taxes

  1. New Income tax Bill next week.

  2. New Income tax Bill to be simple and close to the present.

  3. Personal Income tax reforms for middle class.

  4. Nil Income Tax up to Rs.12,00,000.

  5. Income Tax slab changed.

  6. TDS and TCS rationalise.

  7. Limit for TDS on rent increased from Rs.2.4 lakhs to Rs.6 lakhs.

  8. Limit for TDS on senior citizens enhanced from Rs.50,000 to Rs.1,00,000.  

  9. TCS removed on remittance for education purposes.

10. 'Updated Return' time limit enhanced to 4 years from the present 2 years. 

Tailpiece.

Got up at 5, the chores and was ready by 10. The maid was at work.

Nandan's boys had dropped by to do work. The curtain hooks and the locker handles refixed. The foot locker's door will be newly fabricated. They've taken measurements.

Medicines stocked from Medicare.

The maid said that she'd carry out a puja at her temple for me. 

The Budget Session of Parliament begins!

The Parliament session commenced, on the dot. The session discussed the Economic Situation in India after the Presidential address! Consequently, Sonia Gandhi had attacked the President saying that she was sick and wasn't familiar with the depth of the matter that she'd read out. 

I think the Congress wants to disrupt this session of Parliament. Hope it does not succeed.

And these Bills would be taken up :-

   *  The immigration and Foreigner's Bill, 2025 : to regulate the entry of immigrants into India.

   * The banking Laws (Amendment Bill), 2024 : to bring reforms in banking regulations. 

   * The Railways (Amendment) Bill, 2024 : Aimed at modernising railway operations and governance.

   * Waqf (Amendment ) Bill : To seek modifications to the governance of Waqf properties.

   * Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill 2024 : For disaster preparedness and response mechanisms.

   * The Finance Bill, 2025 : Crucial for implementing fiscal policies outlined by in the Budget.

Tailpiece.

Got up at my usual time, the chores and was ready by a quarter to 10.

Babu Sahadev and party left after a while.

Sajish gives me a haircut, followed my massage.   

Adieu Muthanna sir.

Dateline 30 Jan 

Krishna Kumar Muthanna sir was my House Master in Prasad House, when I joined Sainik School in class VII in Jan 1968. Short in stature, he was a handsome man and was always immaculately dressed. 

A couple of years later, he became an NCC officer in the Air Force wing. Initially, he'd problems on the parade ground during drill instructions. Where he used to fumble was while coming to a halt during marching! He didn't seem to get the right step to order a halt.

In the House, he used to look after us and he and his wife, the very beautiful Gauri took it upon them to look after us, especially the newcomers. The couple did not have any children, unfortunately!

In my class, there were many who came from Malayalam medium schools and making conversations in English was a tall order but this requirement was emphasised by the Matrons.

To help such cadets, Muthanna sir agreed to speak in Malayalam to those cadets. A few mornings after that, my friend Josekutty Thomas wanted to report sick and had approached the House Master. Their conversation went off something like this.

  Josekutty :          "Sir, enikku MI Roomil pokanam".

  Muthanna sir :     "Enthaanu problem?"

  Josekutty:           "Chumayaanu sir."

  Muthanna sir :    "Evideya Chuma".

Gauri Muthanna had passed a few years before. They'd settled down in Mysore and he had taken on the role of an Educationist.

Tailpiece.

Got up at our usual time, the chores and was ready by a quarter to 10.

A quiet Wednesday. The maid was at work.

 

 

National Waterways - Akkulam to Chettuva.

5 tourism potential locations identified on the 235-km stretch

* 590-km West Coast Canal (WCC) connects Kovalam in the south to Neeleswaram in the north. It traverses 

   through 11 districts.

* The waterway from Kovalam to Bekal in Kasaragod is proposed to be developed to a width of 40 m ansd

   a draft of 2.20 m for canals to enable large-scale movement of cargo, in phases.

* 235 km of the WCC - part of National Waterways - from Akkulam to Chettuva likely to be commissioned

   within two months. Around Rs.300 crores spent by the state to make the stretch navigable.

* The phase II of the project which focuses on eviction and rehabilitation of people living on the banks of the

   canals is under way.

* KIIFB has sanctioned an additional Rs.247.3 crores to rehabilitate 1,275 families residing on the banks of

   the Kovalam-Varkala stretch.

Tailpiece.

Got up at 5, the chores and was ready by a quarter past 9.

Lekha goes to town for :-

 

      * buying fish

      * buying grocery

      * buying bananas

A quiet day. The maid wasn't keeping well and therefore, took leave.

Washing machinex.

Reactions from all over, regarding my medical status!

 

My surgery has been fixed!

Our day had started at 4, the chores and we were off to Kochi in our Chevy with Sajish as the chauffeur. Our breakfast was at Elayathu. Reached the hospital at a half past 9.

At first the junior doctors had a check and finally, forwarded my file to Dr Pravin Varma and we did meet him.

He briefed me about the surgery.

Doing the Echo and the ECG, the doubts about a leaking valve was ruled out. Phew!

Met the surgeon, finally, after lunch. He briefed me elaborately on the complete procedure.

Will be admitted on 04 Feb and the surgery will take place the next day. Would be discharged after 7 days and the review will be after a month. 

On my way to Amrita.

Got up at our usual time, the chores and was ready by a quarter past 8. Sajish, the chauffeur of my car, reached at a half past 8. And we left for Amala Hospital soon after.

Called up Binuja, of the PRO Amala and alerted her so that there was the least amount of time wasted on waiting. She had come down and handed over the CDs of my coronary angiogram and the lab reports.

And we left for the ECHS, Kunnamkulam immediately after. and reached there by a quarter 11. Met Dr Nisalal and got my OPD and IPD referrals for Amrita Hospital for the CABG.

Decided to go tomorrow, fixed up an appointment with the cardiologist, Pravin Varma, there. Sajish will be driving my car tomorrow.

Returned by lunchtime. 

Pradeep, the computer guy fetched up at a half at a quarter past 3 and got my laptop going! It's bloody slow but.

Narayanan and Rema had dropped by after hearing about my ailment. Sweet of them!

Shut down The Quarterdeck systematically.

                      

The 76th Republic Day.

New Delhi seemed to have a bright sunny morning which must have reduced the intensity of the wintry cold, albeit by just a notch or two. Consequently, the activities on the Kartavya Path today had a beautiful backdrop all through the forenoon.

For many of us, watching the Republic Day parade at New Delhi, every 26 Jan, is a compulsory must!

Today’s was no less in pageantry, precision of movements by the participating groups and the pride on the faces of the participants as well as the spectators, from the previous ones.

I feel the 21/2 hours that I spent in front of my television set was worthwhile!

The defence forces and the paramilitary forces were smart in their movements in shiny, smart outfits. The cultural fair on display was spectacular, pleasing to the eyes and colourful. It showed the wide variety of our culture which no other country in the world can boast of!

A great show!

‘Emergency’ faces problems.

India, yesterday, called upon the British government to take action against the disrupters of the screening of Kangana Ranaut’s ‘Emergency’. The argument was that ‘freedom of expression’ could not be selective.

The MEA also stated that it will continue to raise security concerns with the US following reports of Khalistani separatist guy, Gurpatwant Singh. being seen at Trump’s inauguration.

The film, ‘Emergency’ explores the period of emergency declared by the then PM Indira Gandhi from 1975 to 1977 and its aftermath. Kangana Ranaut stars in the lead role with Anupam Kher and Shreyas Talpade playing prominent roles.

Tailpiece.

Got up at my usual time, the chores and was ready by a quarter to 10. 

Dr (Mrs) Sodhi had fixed up my appointment with the cardiologist at Rajah hospital. Accordingly, we reached there by a half past 11. Met the doctor, who recommended an early open heart surgery and had tweaked the medicines

The top management of Amala hospital is helping me in retrieving my angiogram CDs and lab results.

Anuja gets nod

Indian representation confirmed at Oscars 2025 as Anuja gets nod.

Anuja tells the story of a gifted nine-year-old, who must make a choice between education and factory work. Other nominees for the Live Action Short category are : A Lien, I’m not a robot, The Last Ranger and The Man who could not remain silent.

02 Mar The Academy Awards Ceremony!

Tailpiece.

Got up at 5, the chores and was ready by a quarter past 10.

The maid was ot work. Washing machinex.

Back at home.

Cardiologist Jayakumar met me during his rounds and briefed me about his future plan of action. He was followed by Gopakumar, the surgeon who briefed me about his plan of action.

My discharge proceedings were initiated soon after and I monitored the sequence so as to call the cab at the appropriate time.

And by a half past 3, we were off to The Quarterdeck.

It was a quiet evening thereafter.

CAG

It was the day of my coronary angiogram.

As usual, my day began at 5, the chores and was ready for the procedure much before 8. There were very many unusual emergencies and so, I was wheeled into the cath lab by a quarter past 11.

Earlier, around a half past 6, an x-ray of my chest was taken.

The procedure, finally, took place around 1. The catheter was introduced by cutting the artery on my right wrist. The results are currently being uploaded and I should get it by tomorrow.

Though the cardiologist has recommended a surgery at the earliest. 

I’ll, however, wait for a second opinion.

At Amala Hospital

Dateline 21 Jan

Got up at 5, the chores and was ready by 10.

Left for Amala by Sherif’s cab and my admission formalities were over by 4. Our suite is on the 8th floor and we settled down for the evening.

The pre-CAG formalities were completed and I was got readied.

India-US ties at peak.

What was seen as unthinkable a generation ago will seem as indispensable a generation from now is a reflection of the ties between the two countries.

It has been a period of record visas, record trade, record defence collaboration, record space cooperation, record students, record investments....

The recent inauguration of the US Consulate office in Bangalore marks an expansion of the US presence in India. India will soon open its consulate in Los Angeles.

Tailpiece.

Got up at 5, the chores and was ready by a quarter to 10.

The maid was at work.

Anitha George, our friend, had dropped by for an hour at a half past 5 and made the evening simply wonderful. 

Israel-Hamas truce kicked in today.

* Ceasefire began at 1200 h IST today

* Among the 33 Israeli captives being freed first in exchange of 110 Palestinian prisoners with life 

   sentences

* Hamas freed three female hostages today, 4 will be freed on day 7 and the remaining 25 over the

   following 5 weeks

* After the last hostage release in Stage 1, on day 42, Israeli forces will begin their withdrawal and

  complete it in no later than day 50

What happens during Stage 1

Philadelphi corridor

 * The Israeli side will gradually reduce the forces in the corridor area during day-42 first stage

 * On day 42, after the last hostage release of the first stage, the Israeli forces will begin their withdrawal and

    complete it by no later than day 50

Troop withdrawal

 * Withdrawal of Israeli forces eastwards from densely populated areas along the borders of the Gaza Strip

 * The Israeli forces will be deployed in a perimeter (700) metres with an exception at 5 localised points to be 

    increased by no more than 400 additional metres, the text of the deal says.

 

 Rafah border crossing

 * The Rafah border crossing will be ready for the transfer of civilians and for the wounded after the release

    of all women

 * All ill and wounded Palestinian civilians will be allowed to cross via Rafah border crossing

 * 50 wounded military individuals will be allowed to cross daily, accompanied by three individuals

Tailpiece.

Got up at 5, the chores and was ready by a quarter past 10.

The maid had taken leave because of a sudden death in her family.

A quiet Sunday.

 

An Indian space station by 2035?

An Indian space station would be established by 2035 with the success of Spadex, which has been a major breakthrough.

The Bhartiya Antriksh Bhavan is essential for docking of satellites in future. India Meteorological Department was established in 1875 and has completed 150 years today. Our weather forecast and disaster preparedness capabilities are comparable or better than any other country as we are sharing information with other countries also.

After a severe storm in the north east, the British set up the IMD. The Shimla station was one of the initial stations and remained the HQs of IMD during the British rule. It was later shifted to Pune and finally, to Delhi after Independence.

The Shimla IMD station still occupies an important place due to its topographical and geographical situation. This station has been a critical pillar of weather forecasting, especially for the Himalayan region, where precise predictions are vital for saving lives and livelihoods.

Tailpiece.

Got up at 5, the chores and was ready by a quarter to 10.

Lekha's lunch of prawn fried rice and salad was superb.

Our neighbours had dropped by to take stock of the situation arising out my forthcoming coronary angiogram. Damn sweet of them!   

The Isreali-Hamas ceasefire.

Fresh strikes kill 70 in Gaza after ceasefire deal announced

Palestinians in Gaza reported heavy Israeli strikes that killed more than 70 people since a ceasefire agreement was announced in the night of 15 Jan.

No cabinet approval till Hamas backs down

Fresh Israeli strikes on Gaza come as Netanyahu signalled there were issues with the deal just hours after US President Joe Biden and key mediator Qatar announced it was complete. Netanyahu's office said his cabinet won't meet to approve the deal until Hamas backs down, accusing it of reneging on parts of the agreement to gain concessions.

Tightrope walk for Bibi amid pressure

 * It is not clear if Netanyahu's statements merely reflected jockeying to keep his fractious coalition together or

    if the deal was at risk.

 * While Netanyahu is under pressure from families of hostages to strike a deal, his far-right coalition partners

    have threatened to bring down his government if he makes too many concessions.

94 Israelis are reportedly held hostage by Hamas in Gaza.

Tailpiece.

Got up at 5, the chores and was ready by a quarter to 10.

The maid was at work

A quiet Friday.

Meta India apologises for Zuckerberg's remark...

......that the NDA government lost the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. 

Inadvertent error, says the Tech Firm

Meta India's VP took to X yesterday to tender an apology on behalf of the company for the "inadvertent error". "Mark's observation that many incumbent parties were not re-elected in 2024 holds for true for several countries,

BUT not India", in response Union minister Ashwini Vaishnaw's criticism of the remark.

Company avoids parliamentary summons

* BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, who heads Parliament's panel on Communications and Information Technology, said 

   the matter is now closed. He had earlier said that the panel will summon Meta India.

* Zuckerberg triggered a row by claiming in a podcast that the NDA lost the 2024 election due to its weak     

   Covid response.

I billion users for Meta Apps - What'sApp, Facebook and Instagram - in India.

Tailpiece.

Got up at 4, the chores and were ready by 6. Sajish was drivng the car when a crazy guys passed narrowly 

RaGa needs to be tried for treason.

Today, at the inauguration of the new Congress Headquarters in New Delhi, RaGa has made a desperate call He and his party need to fight the BJP, the RSS and the Indian State.

Doesn't he realise the duties and responsibilities of the Leader of the Opposition?

He's desperate to grab power at any cost because he is yet to realise the fact that he cannot win elections for his party on his own!  The INDI alliance has begun to wonder as to what his use is all about when he's unwinnable!

Tailpiece.

Got up at 5, the chores and was ready by a quarter to 10.

Washing machinex of the bed linen. Went to town for three assignments :-

      * Send my google form, filled, to the NDA.

      * Top up the Chevy and check tyre pressure.

      * Give my trouser to the tailor.

A quiet day, otherwise!  

Frosty relations with Bangladesh.

India summons Bangladesh envoy amid border fencing row

India, yesterday, summoned Bangladesh's acting High Commissioner Nurul Islam amid row over India's construction of fencing on the border.

No violation of protocol, agreement : India

With regard to security measures at the border, the Bangladesh envoy was told India observed all protocols and agreement between the two governments. Barbed wire fencing, border lighting, installation of technical devices are meant to secure the border, adding that the focus is on tackling cross-border criminal activities.

5 arrested by BSF for smuggling attempt

* The Bangladesh diplomat was summoned a day after Dhaka conveyed to Indian High Commissioner to

   Bangladesh its deep concerns over India's border security measures.

* Security forces on Monday arrested five people, including two from Bangladesh, for trying to smuggle goods

   across the border.

535 bottles of Phensedyl, a narcotic drug, were siezed from the smugglers.

Tailpiece.

Got up at a half past 4, though Lekha had woken up at 4. The chores and was ready by 8. Sajish arrived at a quarter past 8 and we headed for Amala Hospital.

The the ECHS protocol and the registration formalities didn't take much time but could meet the doctor only by a quarter past 12. 

Had stand easy snacks and coffee/Horlicks at the small cafe at the foyer.

The evening chores.

Mahakumbh decoded.

Where grandeur bumps into spirituality

* Total area                                          10,000 acres

* Budget                                               Rs. 75,000 cr

* State's budget                                    Rs.54,000 cr

* Centre's budget                                  Rs.21,000 cr

* Total snans                                         6 (13 Jan, 14 Jan, 29 Jan, 03 Feb, 12 Feb, 26 Feb)

* Each snan takes off with bathing of

saints and seers of different akharas     13

* !3 Akharas divided into 3 categories    Sanyasi, Bairagi and Udaseen 

* Total ghats                                           41

* Expected footfall on snan days             2 cr

* Snan on 29 Jan                                    8-10 cr

Tailpiece.

Got up at 5, the chores and was ready by a quarter past 10.

A quiet beginning to the week.

No sign of Kittu today, too. Hope he's safe!

Actions being taken before 20 Jan.

Now Meta, Amazon join Ford, Mc Donald's, John Deere and Walmart to nix diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs ahead of Trump inauguration.

Meta outlines sweeping changes, including elimination of its diverse state hiring approach and the disbanding of its DEI team in an internal memo, which was leaked online. The move by the US companies comes after recent Supreme Court decisions on how courts will approach DEI going ahead. Amazon said it is winding down outdated programs.

DEI invites ire in the Los Angeles wildfire

* Besides the SC decision, the move by companies comes as Trump, who has long riled against tech giants for being biased towards him, is set to become the president.

* Elon Musk targeted DEI during the Los Angeles wildfire. He said, "They prioritised DEI over saving lives and homes.

Tailpiece.

Got up at my usual time, the chores and was ready by a quarter to 10.

A quiet Sunday.

The Mahakumbh.

Laurene Powell Jobs - the widow of Steve Jobs - to observe 'Kalpavas' at Kumbh. Kalpavas is an ancient spiritual practice of austerity.

Understanding the spiritual practice

Kalpavas is a month-long period of austerity, meditation and self-purification, deeply rooted in the Sanatan tradition. Practitioners, known as Kalpavasis, renounce comforts, live in temporary tents and engage in daily worship, including holy dips, spiritual discourses and devotional music. The practice is meant to for inner purification and spiritual growth.

Maha Kumbh : A spiritual gathering

* The Maha Kumbh, organised every 12 years, is a religious gathering of Sanatan devotees attracting

   millions from around the world.

* Laurene is likely to stay at the camp of Kailashananda, the Mahamandaleshwar of Niranjani Akhara.

   She will be there till the third Amrit Snan (royal bath) on Mauni Amavasya on 29 Jan.

13 Jan when the Maha Kumbh Mela kickstarts in Prayagraj, in UP.

Tailpiece.

Got up at a half past 4, was ready by a half past 5 and Prabin, took me to the railway station. Boarded the train and was comfortably fast asleep on my bunk. Reached Thodupuzha by a quarter past 12.

The meeting was conducted and we - Anian and I - left soon after lunch. The first was a normal FP till Muvattupuzha and the conductor scrounged away Rs.60/- of mine. There were blocks short of Angamali (2 hrs), on the NH stretch at Chalakkudi for about 45' and another half-an-hour, short of Choondal. Reached home by 8.

A quiet evening.

Genome India.

PM Narendra Modi unveiled the genome sequencing data of 10,000 Indian nationals, describing the occasion as a significant milestone in the field of biotechnology research.

The Genome India data, which reflects the vast genetic diversity of the country, will be accessible to researchers through managed access at the Indian Biological Data Centre (IBDC). This was at the Genomics Data Conclave, organised by the Department of Biotechnology.

India has taken a historic step in the world of research. Five years ago, the Genome India project was approved. More than 20 research organisations have played a very important role in the research.

The genetic diversity of India plays a pivotal role in the manifestation and treatment of diseases. With over a billion people and a multitude of ethnic groups, the genetic profile of each community is distinct., which in turn affects how diseases manifest and how they can be effectively treated.

Tailpiece.

Got up at 5, the chores and was ready by a half past 9. Earlier, Sajish, the barber gave me a good haircut and massage.

By a half past 9, Sajish, was available at the gate, with his car. At 10, we went across to the ECHS Polyclinic 

and got a couple of my problems - related to Lekha. Our cards were found registered already.

Siesta. 

 

Adieu P Jayachandran sir.

Paliyath Jayachandran, 81 passed into the mist of time this evening. 

He has a staggering 16,000 songs to his credit.

My all-time favourite is "Manjalayil mungi thorthi, 

                                     Dhanumaasa chandrika vannu,

                                     Ninne maathram kandillallo

                                     Nee maathram keyttillallo,

                                     Prema chakori, chakori, chakori.

Adieu sir. Om Shanti! Sadgati!

Tailpiece.

Got up at 4, the chores and was ready well in time. We left for Padmakumar's place by a 20' to 6. Had breakfast at the Padma Cafe by about a half past 7. 

 

 

On social calls.

Our day had started at 5, this morning. Were ready by a half past 7 and we kicked off our move to Padmakumar's house. In the meanwhile, he'd gone off to Parakode, to look up his ailing aunt, aged 97 years. 

After a super breakfast with Rema, we'd set off for the Kottarakkara Maha Ganapati kshetram and after the 'darshan' we had fetched up at Dr Hareendrababu's Pranav Hospital for a review. Wasn't he thrilled meeting us?!

We picked up Padmakumar at the MC Road and resumed our journey to Mini's house. It was a nice get together and Mini had made a scrumptious lunch for the occasion. After the session, we'd returned home via Kottarakkara to top up the Chevy and check tyre pressure!

Dropped Padmakumar and Rema at their place and returned to Raj Nivas. It was packing time and winding up the house.

Tailpiece.

Tomorrow's gonna be a long day as we make our return to Guruvayur. Padmakumar and Rema will be coming with us and will get off at Thrippunithura. 

At Thiruvalla.

Got up at 5, the chores and was ready by a half past 10. Monish, my sa'arthi for the day, came at about a half past 11. We went through the interior roads, shortcuts and reached Thiruvalla by 1. After ascertaining the venue's location, went across to a restaurant to have a vegetarian lunch.

The meeting was held at the Father's house - the chairman of the PN Panicker Foundation, Pathanamthitta district - from a quarter past 2.

It was wound up by 4 PM and a few photographs were taken.

Returned to Raj Nivas by a quarter to 7. 

A lot of work has been done/achieved during this small interlude at my parents' place. 

Five high value transactions that can attract an IT notice.

There are many people who prefer to transact in cash even in the age of Digital India. Small transactions are but the problem arises when big cash transactions start happening. Let us know as to which of these transactions can get you an IT notice.

Depositing cash in the bank account

If someone deposits Rs.10 lakhs or more in a financial year. This money may have been deposited in one or more accounts. Since you are depositing more money than the prescribed limit, the IT Department can ask you about the source of this money.

Depositing cash in fixed deposit

Just as questions arise when you deposit more than Rs.10 lakh in a financial year in a bank account, the same happens with FDs. The IT Department can ask you about the source of the money.

Big property transactions

If you have made a cash transaction of Rs.30 lakhs or more while buying a property, then the IT Department will be informed by the property registrar. In this instance, too, the IT Department can inquire about the source.

Payment of credit card bill

If your credit card bill is Rs.1 lakh or more and you pay it in cash, you can still be asked what is the source of the money. On the other hand, if you pay Rs.10 lakhs or more in any financial year by any means, then the IT Department can question you about the source of the money.

Buying shares, mutual funds, debentures or bonds

If a large amount of cash is used to buy shares, mutual funds, debentures, then this also alerts the IT Department. If a person makes a transaction of Rs.10 lakhs or more, then the information about it reaches the Income Tax Department who can inquire about its source.

Tailpiece.

Got up at 5, the chores and was ready on time. Shifted our Chevy to the market place to facilitate the pick up truck to bring in granite stones.

A quiet day.

The evening chores. 

 

At Mundolil Devi Kshetram.

It was an early morning for both of us. Had got up at 5, the chores and we were ready by a half past 7. Letha had come with Archa's chauffeur-driven-car, along with Archa and Devootty and we took off soon after.

After having breakfast at Adoor, we resumed our journey and reached the Mundolil devi kshetram - Lekha's family temple at Haripad - by a half past 10. The temple has transformed into a well organised holy place with quite a few deities around.

We could meet up with many of Lekha's relatives through, her mom.

We'd also visited the Subrahmanyam kshetram and the Mannarassala Nagaraja temple, nearby.

And returned to the Mundolil kshetram for a scrumptious lunch.  

Returned to Raj Nivas by 4, in the evening.

A day well spent!

To Alappuzha and back.

Got up at 5, the chores and was ready by a half past 8. Kannan, my sa'arathi, had come well in time and we kicked off soon after. Had to make a quick return to pick up my cellphone.

By the time, I reached the meeting venue, it was a half past 11. Started off with Prof Sasikumar's condolences for Dr Manmohan Singh ji and MT Vasudevan Nair sir. However, there were gaps in the narration and I'd to do the necessary amendments. But left the thing about demonetisation because he was making public his party's view and I didn't want to cross my sword with his!

When my turn came, I'd explained the purport of my visit and the meeting. Gave my answer regarding PK Memorial Library's secretary, Gopalakrishnan's point based on Pirappancode Murali's negative references to PN Panicker. Told him that we'd already thumbed down Murali's spiteful references in all the major newspapers, especially, Malayala Manorama at the time of its publishing.

Returned from there soon after, had lunch at a wayside restaurant on the AC Road and dropped Aniyan at the Changanasserry road transport corporation bus stand. Reached Raj Nivas by 4, after collecting a medicine and buying a mini-fruit basket.

A quiet evening thereafter.   

An evergreen.

 

                                 The woods are lovely, dark and deep

                                 But I've promises to keep

                                 And miles to go before I sleep

                                 And miles to go before I sleep.

                                                                - Robert Frost.

Excerpted from Frost's ode.

Tailpiece.

Got up at 5, the chores and was ready by a half past 9.

The work on the ramp was sighted.

A quiet day!                           

Mohanachandran’s sanchayanam.

Got up at 5, the chores and kicked off for Kazhakkoottam at a half past 7. Took part in Mohanachandran’s sanchayanam and felt nice. Offered our condolences to Manju, Vinu and Vishnu.

Lekha had come in from Kottarakkara and met up with Manju. She, then, looked up her Appachi and her chittappan. Dropped in at Mini’s

Back to the Foundation and have initiated two actions regarding our activities this year.

Gopu and I had lunch at the PWD Rest house.

Returned to Raj Nivas. A quiet evening thereafter.

At Thalavoor (2).

Dateline 31 Dec 2024.

Got up at my usual time, the chores and was ready by a half past 9. No music as the dish television wasn’t on stream!

Reji and his understudy reached by a half past 11. Sreekumar, the television technician came soon after and between the three of them they’d removed the thick  foliage so that the dish could receive signals from the satellite. Our TV was on stream by lunchtime.

Meanwhile, we’d driven to Rema’s for lunch. It was superb, as usual.

Returned and paid off the people thereafter.

A quiet evening. Watched the new year’s program on the television and hit the sack at a quarter past 12 after wishing each other “a happy 2025”.

To Thiruvananthapuram.

Got up at 5, the chores and was ready by a half past 9. Our packing was done and Kunjumon was dot on time with his vehicle. After handing over the keys of the Raj Nivas to the caretaker, we’d set off.

I was dropped at the RTC stand while Lekha had proceeded to Venu’s, Ananthan chittappan’s to finally, settle down at Letha’s.

Caught the first super fast bus to Thiruvananthapuram. The journey was uneventful and I’d reached the Foundation by a quarter past 12. Anish, along with Chambu, had received me.

After browsing my mail, I and Chambu had gone across to the PWD Rest House, nearby for lunch. Did the jobs given to me by Maman without delay.

A power interruption kept the electricity away and it had not resumed even after a half past 6.

Returned home and we were back by 7. Interacted with Ammayi.

A comparatively early evening!