Bringing "Green Boots" home!

India plans high-risk mission to bring "green Boots" home

India is seeking a specialist recovery team to retrieve the remains of Dorjee Morup, a 48-year-old lance naik of ITBP, from Mt Everest's summit.

Part of historic Everest expedition

For nearly 30 years, a body known as "Green Boots" has been frozen under a rock near Mount Everest's summit, Morup was part of a historic 1996 ITBP expedition aiming to become the first Indian team to summit Everest from the Chinese side. Three climbers reached the top; but a blizzard claimed all three. Two bodies remain missing. The third was Morup's.

Tricky recovery has September deadline

* Authorities hope to return Morup's remains to his family in Ladakh for DNA confirmation and final

   closure.

* Recovery from the death zone at 8,500 metres is hazardous. Temperatures can fall to -40 degrees                 Celsius and the Chinese side lacks helicopter evacuation. ITBP aims to complete the operation by               September.

300

At least 300 people have died in the region since records began. 

Pakistan-Saudi-Turkiye pact.

It's a NATO-style pact under which an attack against one will be treated as an attack against all three. Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkiye, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan signed the trilateral agreement in the holy city of Mecca yesterday. 

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia already have a bilateral defence pact.

The trilateral defence agreement was signed a day after Iran said it was in the final stages of an agreement with Oman on a framework for shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. An Iranian lawmaker had said the trilateral "paper agreement" will not bring security.

India is watching the fall out and further developments.

Indian astronaut Anil Menon conducts spacewalk.

NASA astronauts Anil Menon and Jessica Meir began a spacewalk yesterday to carry out modifications for a future power upgrade at the ISS.

Duo performs ISS power system upgrades

The spacewalkers spent hours in the vacuum of space, carrying out necessary modifications for future installation of Roll-Out Solar Arrays on the International Space Station. The arrays are expected to provide additional power to support critical station operations, NASA said. This was the 281st spacewalk in support of ISS maintenance and upgrades.

Menon's first spacewalk, Meir's sixth

* Menon was born in Minnesota in 1976 to Indian and Ukrainian immigrants. This was Menon's first         and Meir's sixth spacewalk.

* Menon was SpaceX's first flight surgeon, helping it to launch its first humans to space during the             Demo - 2 mission. He joined NASA in 2014 as a space surgeon and began a tw0-year astronaut               training in 2022.

6 PM IST, 06 Jul

When the astronauts stepped outside the ISS to carry out tasks.

 

The 7th anniversary of the repeal of Articles 370 and 35A in J&K.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A, seven years ago, ushered in a "decisive new chapter" for Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, asserting that the constitutional changes have driven progress in infrastructure, education, healthcare, entrepreneurship and social empowerment across the two Union Territories.

The move had transformed the lives of people in the region by ensuring the full application of the Constitution and extending constitutional rights to communities that had remained deprived for decades.

The region has since witnessed changes in key sectors. Women and marginalised communities, who had long been denied full constitutional rights, have been empowered.

Tailpiece.

As Pakistan had rightfully said, then, "Modi hai toh mumkin ho!"

The aftermath!

After three days of heavy rain, it has subsided here at Guruvayur and hopefully the trend should continue. At least there's no weather warning!

Flood waters are yet to recede in places like Kuttanad, many places in Kottayam and in many other places. Feel bad for the plight of the people whose houses have shipped in muck and water! The cleanship is gonna take time and the stench doesn't go away that easily.

The Alappuzha-Changanacherry road looks pathetic with flood waters! Remember the times that we'd driven past and enjoyed the rides!

One needs to see as to what all post-rain illnesses are waiting to befall on the people!

Hope things get back to normal soon.

Ernakulam drives state's UPI economy.

From roadside tea stalls and fish markets, hospitals and educational institutions, QR codes have become as common as cash counters across Kerala. And true to its billing as Kerala's commercial capital, Ernakulam district is leading the state's shift to digital payments.

Kerala recorded 454.91 million Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions - 2% of the country's total volume - valued at Rs.63,489.63 crores, or 2.2% of the national total in June. Ernakulam logged 91.4 million transactions worth Rs.11,938.18 crores during the period.

Thiruvananthapuram ranked second with 54.74 million transactions worth Rs.7,460.96 crores. Kozhikode, Malappuram, Thrissur closely follow.

Banking experts say the numbers reflect more than just population. Ernakulam's emergence as the leading as the leading district for UPI transactions reflects its strong digital ecosystem, high smartphone penetration and vibrant economic activity.

As Kerala's commercial hub, it has a diverse mix of retail consumers, businesses, professionals, educational institutions and merchants who have made digital payments part of daily life.

Elappully to get 1st 'groundnut village' tag.

As the country looks to reduce its dependence on imported edible oils, a village in Palakkad is betting on a one small oilseed that can make a big difference. Elappully panchayat has launched an ambitious effort to revive groundnut cultivation, hoping to transform itself into Kerala's first organised 'groundnut village' while creating a new source of income for local farmers.

Barely a decade ago, groundnut fields had become a familiar sight across parts of Elappully. Though the crop was cultivated only for a brief period, it attracted scores of farmers, with traders and small processing units emerging to procure the harvest but as cultivation dwindled, the crop once again vanished from the village.

The panchayat authorities, with the help of the department of agriculture and the National Mission on Edible Oils-Oilseeds (NMEO-OS), are hoping to script a second comeback story with groundnut cultivation planned across 112 acres in the first phase. More than 65 farmers have already enrolled, raising hopes that the crop could once again become a viable source of income.

Unlike the previous revival, this one is backed by scientific planning. Farmers will receive high-yielding, disease-resistant varieties such as Kadiri, Lepakshi, VR-10, TMV-14 and TGS-1694. Soil samples from every participating field will be analysed, soil health crisis cards issued and extensive training programs conducted to promote scientific cultivation practices.

The project has identified areas such as Menonpara, Kottilpara and Eduppukulam as being particularly suited for cultivation. Groundnut with shell fetches around Rs.80/- per kg while cultivation costs are low. The crop offers farmers a profitable alternative and also supports crop diversification in the region.

Groundnut also has a deeper history in Elappully. Before sugarcane became the dominant crop following the establishment of the Menonpara Sugar factory, groundnut was widely cultivated in the area. As farmers shifted to sugarcane, groundnut cultivation declined. The current initiative seeks not only to restore groundnut cultivation but to establish a complete value chain - from production and procurement to oil extraction and marketing.

The first sowing of the new varieties is scheduled at Kottilpara on the 10th.

Border trade via Nathu La pass resumes.

Border trade via Nathu La Pass, which had remained suspended for six years amid the Covid-19 pandemic and Sino-India border tensions resumed yesterday.

The reopening is expected to inject fresh economy by generating business for registered traders, transport operators and other stake holders dependent on border trade. Border trade through Nathu La will operate from Monday to Thursday and continue till November. Under the Nathu La border trade arrangement, the approved categories of goods, including handicrafts, handloom products, traditional religious items and ready-made garments, can now be imported and exported. 

This year, 38 traders have been issued passes to participate in the cross-border trade. Currently, there are around 35 tradable items.

Tailpiece.

Heavy rains since evening. 

Taslima Nasrin returns to Calcutta.

Bangladesh-born writer Taslima Nasrin returned to Calcutta yesterday, after she was accorded a civic reception at Rabindra Sadan, sharing the dais with the West Bengal chief minister Suvendu Adhikari during a literary program against fundamentalism.

She'd left in 2007 during the tenure of the CPM-led Left Front government led by Buddhadeb Bhattacharya in Bengal after violent protests over her novel "Dwikhandito" led to a deterioration of the law and order situation in Calcutta. 

She is now a Swedish national.

Tailpiece.

It rained heavily in the whole of Kerala, today.

The FIFA shenanigans.

European nations to boycott FIFA competitions in protest

UEFA and its member nations have agreed to boycott FIFA events if the global body goes ahead with its privatisation plans. A look....

Infantino plan faces major backlash

FIFA President Gianni Infantino's plan to sell stakes in the WC to private equity investors was hit hard on Thursday by his former colleagues at UEFA, who agreed to boycott all the FIFA competitions in protest. "UEFA and its national associations will not participate in the FIFA competitions". The European body said after an online meeting of its 55 member nations.

Somethings are too important to sell

* Some things are simply too important to sell. "The FIFA World Cup belongs to football. It always           will. And so long as Europe has a voice, it will never be for sale".

* The meeting was called to counter Infantino's offer of $20M to each of FIFA's 211 members that has       to be accepted by mid-September.

05 Sep

Is when Women's U20 World Cup, the next FIFA event will begin.

The trawl ban to end tomorrow.

The 52-day annual trawl ban period is set to end tomorrow, with a feeling of hope and anxiety prevalent among the fisher folk, all across the state. For the 30,000 fishing crafts operated by traditional fishermen, the trawl ban period, that offers them a season of bountiful catch, has not been encouraging.

While a few motorised crafts got bounteous catch, most of them had to struggle to meet the operating costs. This uncertainty has spread anxiety among the 3,500-odd mechanised boat operators who fear they will have to undertake longer fishing trips this time.

Tailpiece.

Mini and Mithun are on their way to New Jersey. They should reach Ammu by tomorrow forenoon. 

A quiet Wednesday.

Got up at a half past 4, the chores, lit up the puja room lamp, opened up the house for the day and switched on the hymns on the home theatre.

The usual Wednesday aa'arathi of the house was carried out this morning.

Walked on the courtyard and recited my prayers. Bath followed by breakfast.

Spoke to Dr(Mrs ) RS Sodhi regarding Lekha's continuing fever and cough. According to her instructions, the following were done at the Rajah Hospital :-

            * cbc

            * crp and

            * chest x-ray PA view

Lunch.

Armed with the results, we'd visited the doctor at 2, got medicines. Review on Saturday.

A quiet evening. 

 

A thoroughly wet day!

Got up at a half past 4, went about my chores, opened up the house for the day, lit up the puja room lamp and switched on the hymns on the home theatre.

A thoroughly wet day; the maid was at work.

Ramesh, the gardener, had fetched up with his understudy to clean up the compound, clear the wet/dry waste bins and clean the kitchen washing outlet. He finished his work by a half past 12.

My first outing after I'd returned from the long break of the Reading Month Activities. To my bank to reset certain readings, etc.

Lunch followed by siesta.

Teatime.

The caretaker called up to say that the wild grass that had grown all along the skirt of the second tier of the compound have been cut and disposed.

Recited my prayers.

A quiet evening, watching television.

I'm good!

After a week's round of medicines, I'm fine with my cough having disappeared but Lekha's case hasn't been the same.

Offered 'bali tharpanam' for Ammachi on her 35th remembrance day as per the Malayalam calendar.

In the evening, therefore, we went across to Jimmy for the review and he has put her on another round of medicines for the next five days. Her cough continues to be stubborn! 

It was a rainy day today!

Getting better!

Slowly coming out of the grip of viral fever. There's a slight weakness but otherwise, am fighting fit. Lekha is also getting better.

A bout of fever and cough!

 In the process of recovering from a bout of fever and cough. Hence my no shows!

A long delayed call on!

Lekha and Mini had got up at 4 and I'd followed them at a quarter past 4. Went through the chores and was ready by a half past 6. Monish had come in on the dot and we hit straight for the DDRC laboratory at Randalummoodu. Kaavya was the sister-in-attendance and the sample for my FBS (Fasting Blood Sugar) along with Hb was collected.

Lekha had given me a roll of purie-bhaaji for breakfast washed down with a cup of tea from a tea stall. And we set off for Kottayam. Lekha, Mini and Monish had breakfast at the Padma Cafe in Changanasserry. And sample was drawn for my PPBS (Post Prandial Blood Sugar), by the sister-in-attendance, Preetha, at a nearby laboratory.

We, then, set off to the Thiruvaarppu Sri Krishna kshetram. We'd a good darshan of the good Lord and Mini had offered butter on the occasion! Picked up fruits enroute and reached Sarala kunjamma's house at Puthuppally.

She's 86, looks frail has very little food and is given a measured amount of water to drink everyday! Badly diabetic, her survival is courtesy the efforts put in by her two daughters Sini and Vidya who observe her movements every moment! Her grandchildren, Nandu (He's a CA), Achu (looks after the folks in the house and is waiting to give an exam in September) and the li'l girl who's doing her internship, after completing her course in nursing! 

Am always impressed with the genuine love and affection that I find in the house - all thanks to the great upbringing! They, now, have a cute golden retriever called Sophie who stood against me with her paws on my chest!!!

It was great being with Sarala kunjamma for those three and a half hours. The three of us viz. Lekha, Mini and I enjoyed every minute with her and of course, the rest of the family!!

On our return, we dropped Mini at Ayoor and reached Raj Nivas by a half past 5. Tomorrow's programs in the two schools have been cancelled because the government has declared a holiday in view of the World Cup Football final between Spain and Argentina, tonight at a half past 12.

A quiet evening!   

Reading Day (30).

Got up at a quarter to 5, washed up, recited my prayers and commenced my chores. Also did my packing and we'd kicked off for the Foundation by a quarter to 9.

Reached there, picked up the requisite systems and headed for the quiz competition at the Chinmaya Mission School, Kunnumpuram. The competition began at a quarter past 10 after passing on the necessary instructions to the participants. 

Wayanad was 1st followed by Malappuram, in the 2nd place!

As I wound up, had told the parents to send in their valuable suggestions, if any, by mail for improving the quiz competition system. Came off from there early as I found that the staff was taking time to pay up the travelling allowances to the participants and their chaperones.

Lunch was vegetarian as it's the Ramayana maasam.

To Poojappura, for the finale, which began with the prize distribution for the winners of all the competitions conducted during the Reading Month and it was very nice to see a lot many children come and collect the prizes. There was an air of festivities!

The prizes were given away by the Foundation's chairman, Pannian Ravindran. This was followed by the "gaana sandhya" by the Fine Arts Society. The singing efforts were okay.

Then we'd film star, Prem Kumar, talk about Muthachchan and his closeness with Maman.

Dinner was laid out by the team!

Anyways, I'd left Poojappura earlier by the KSRTC superfast passenger headed for Kumily. Reached Kottarakkara by 9; Lekha, Mini and Monish were there to welcome me, with packed dinner!

Hit the sack at 11!

  

  

Reading Day (29).

Dateline 17 Jul

Got up at 3, washed up and recited my prayers; turned off to sleep yet again. Got up at 7, the chores and was ready by 9. Anish had arrived by that time and off to the Foundation. The arterial road was choked and therefore, we took all the side roads and reached our destination at a quarter past 10.

Worked on the computer and cleared my tummy as has become my habit since yesterday.

Lunch was kanji and puzhukku from the Sasthaan kovil; simply delicious!

A bit of siesta.

Off to the Chinmaya Mission School at Kunnumpuram to fix up our site for tomorrow's state-level quiz competition. Vijayakumar sir, the quiz master was also present to watch the set up.

Returned in time for the evening cuppa tea.

Booked Anitha George's birthday bouquet for the 27th.

Pulled out 3 grand from my a/c to return Sudha ma'am's money that I'd borrowed. Sarga saayaahnam began at a 20' past 6. It was Raviyettan's "Ramayanathinte prasakthi". A good crowd of over 40 and a nice interaction post talk. We secured at a 40' past 7.

Dropped Raviyettan in front of the Music Academy.

Picked up Maman, from the railway station, returning from Malappuram.

A comparatively late night; my "Vaayana maasaacharanam" sojourn at Maman's house and at Tvpm comes to an end by tomorrow evening. Lekha will come to pick me up from Poojappura.

 

Reading Day (28).

Got up at 5, went through the chores and was ready by 8. Off to the Foundation and from there to the Jyoti Nilayam School at Chirayinkeezhu for the Vaayana sadassu. 

The PN Panicker Foundation's district secretary, Joseph Lawrence was in accompaniment.

We were received by Sister Litty Mathew, the Principal and Sister Jincy Jacob, the Manager. The school is managed by the Ursuline Sisters of Mary Immaculate, a congregation started in Italy in the 17th century with the aim of educating young boys and girls. 

Was impressed with Sister Litty Mathew for her dynamism and class. have promised her to get her school, the "tinker lab" from the central government using our good offices.

Remya Haridas, the MP of Chirayankeezhu, was the chief guest. Her talk on football and allied FIFA Cup talk enthused the students who became active!

Returned by 12. Lunch of chicken biriyani followed by a short siesta upstairs.

To Poojappura for the sarga saayaahnam. Today's talk was on "Vayodhikarum avarude prasnangalum athinte nivaaranavum".

Dropped Maman at Thiruvananthapuram North by a half past 8 to board the Raja Rani Express for Angaadippuram reaching at 0450 hrs, tomorrow morning.

Returned to a quiet evening.

Reading Day (27).

Got up at 5, sent all the messages and turned off to sleep yet again to get up at a 5' to 7. Went through the chores and was ready by 9. Off to the Foundation soon after.

Worked on my laptop and wrote up my diary.

Met Anup Jacob, the minister for civil supplies. He was very friendly. Gave our letter seeking the order for supplyco bags.

Lunch and a short stint at siesta.

Off to the YMCA hall (the old British Council Library) for the session on "Vaayana and Artificial Intelligence" which was inaugurated by Ms Bindu Krishna, the minister for women and child development. The session began on the dot at 3 PM and lasted an hour. 

Off to Poojappura for the sarga saayaahnam. Today's was by the "ezhuthukoottam" which was nice. 'Vaayana ezhuthu anubhavangal' was the topic. Went off well with a good crowd of over 40.

Secured by a quarter past 7 and hit the sack comparatively early. 

Reading Day (26).

Got up at a half past 4 and knowing that if I'd turn off to sleep again, I'd get up late and upset my schedule. So, I'd washed up and recited my prayers, sent the messages on completion and turned off to sleep yet again to get up at 7. Went through the chores and was ready by 9; a quick breakfast and we were off to the Foundation.

Worked on my laptop till about 12 and had a short nap at the top.

Lunch at a quarter past 2.

Today,  Lekha was off to Kochi to meet Dr Padmanabha Shenoy.

Off to the Kerala Armed Women's Police Battalion for the Vaayana Sadassu. DCP Anjali Bhavana was its commandant who made us wait for a while because of a con call from the top. The program was good and she has promised to spread reading awareness, among the poor, in the coastal belt as part of their outreach program! I'm impressed with her positive attitude!

Left the battalion by 5 and I reached the "Sarga saayaahnam" venue by 6; Mr MR Karthikeyan had already delivered the lecture and I'd asked Ashokan Nadalayil to oversee the conclusion. I concluded the session after that!

Reached home by a 5' to 8, had my dinner and had hit the sack earlier than usual.    

Reading Day (25).

Got up at 5, sent the messages and turned off to sleep yet again only to get up at about a 35' past 6. Went about my chores, recited my prayers, washed my clothes and was ready by 9.

Off to the Foundation. Worked on my laptop till about lunch time.

Lunch at a quarter past 2. Rice made by Vasantha along with the dishes sent by Ammayi.

Siesta at the top.

Went off to Poojappura at a half past 4, today's talk was by Dr Vijin Raj and Vishakh RJ on "Vidyayum vaidyavum". Interesting lectures and there was a wide participation from the audience, post talk!

Secured by a half past 7!

Dinner comparatively early.   

Reading Day (24).

Got up at 5, sent the messages and turned off to sleep yet again only to get up at a half past 7. The chores, washing of clothes, reciting of prayers, bath and had breakfast around a half past 9.

Worked on my lap top.

Slept for a while till lunchtime.

To Amritha Hotel for lunch. Nice ambience, nice food and good service by BenShine.

Returned home and left for Poojappura. "Krishiyum saadhyathakalum" by Mr PI Ashok was the topic, maximum interaction by the audience today.

A quiet evening thereafter.  

Reading Day (23).

Got up thrice to go to the rest room, turned back and went off to sleep yet again. Sent all the messages at 5

and then got up at a 20' to 7. Went through the chores, there's power interruption and therefore, had bath in cold water! Left for the Foundation at a half past 8.

After collecting the necessary material, went off to the Chinmaya Mission School at Kunnumpuram behind Ayurveda College. The Quiz Competition had 55 students but the painting, drawing, recitation and Thesaurus-based-'padamalsaram' were over subscribed! And we'd to get additional drawing papers!!

The overall performance in the quiz comp was disheartening! The first was Akhil with 34 followed by Sunil with 27 points - they form the Thiruvananthapuram District Quiz Competition team at the state level competition next Saturday, again at the same venue! As the quiz master, I wasn't happy.

Had lunch by 3 - veg fried rice and paneer masala gravy - followed by medicines. Tried to catch up with my 40 winks but to no avail!

Off to Poojappura by a half past 4, Today's topic was "Bhaasha pathanam" by Dr SK Sreekumar. The audience added up to about 26 people but his talk was good and consequently, an interesting discussion from the gathering ensued.

Returned home by 8. An early dinner and hit the sack comparatively early!    

Reading Day (22).

Got up at 5, sent the messages and turned off to sleep yet again. Got up at 7, went through the chores and was ready by 9. Rajanna was our chauffeur.

Worked on my laptop.

Went to the Vanchi Poor Fund School for the Vaayana Maasaacharanam activity. About thirty children drawn from classes 1 to 5 were the audience; we told them stories, made them read out passages from a few books, gave them Frooti and presented them with books for their library. There were a few group photographs taken on the occasion.

Vasantha's lunch was nice followed by siesta at the top floor.

Off to Poojappura but not before dropping Uma at Printech to collect our banner for tomorrow's Thiruvananthapuram District Quiz Competition at the Chinmaya Mission School at Kunnumpuram near Statue junction.

The Sarga saayaahnam saw Ranjith Nair speak on "Maadhyama channelukal : nallatho cheethayo?" which saw an enthusiastic participation.

Secured a trifle later than usual! 

Reading Day (21).

Got up around 2, washed up and recited the first half of my prayers; turned off to sleep yet again. Got up at a quarter to 7, the chores and was ready by 9. Anish cleared up the wash basin block in the morning. I, then, gave him tasks to get me things that I wanted.

Went straight to the Cantonment House and met up with Ms Bindu Krishna, the minister. She warmly welcomed us and has agreed to be the chief guest, at our program at the YMCA, on the 15th at 1500 hrs.

Worked on the laptop till lunchtime.

To V Muralidharan's office around a half past 1, wasted time till about a 10' to 4 and it turned out to be a futile exercise!

Dropped at the Poojappura circle for the Sarga saayaahnam which was by the 'ezhuthukoottam'. The subject was "Saahitya rangathe copyiyadikal". Nice and interactive!

Bought me a new pair of bathroom slippers and had an extra hole drilled into my belt. 

A comparatively early evening!

Reading Day (20).

Got up at 5, sent the messages, recited a part of my prayers and turned off to sleep yet again. Got up at a 10' past 6, went about my chores and was ready by 8. Off to Chennithala's house but could just tell him our requirement for him to attend our function on the 11th. He would be off to Harippad on that day he said.

Went to the Navajeevan Bethany Vidyalaya, Naalaanchira for the Vaayana sadassu at a quarter past 9. It was a nice program where the manager, Rev Thomas George, Principal Shana Rejith and DCP Anjali Bhavana was the chief guest, who read out the Reading Day pledge too. Joseph had omitted me from the initial swaagatham but made amends to it later.

Had a part of chicken biriyani bought for me for lunch, which was nice.

A short siesta.

To Poojappura for the sarga saayaahnam, where Anil Vengodu spoke on "chalachithra gaanangalum alankaara vruthangalum", where he concentrated on Yusuf Ali Kechery.

Secured a trifle late by a half past 8.

 

Reading Day (19).

Got up at 5, sent the messages, turned off to sleep yet again. Got up at 7, the chores and was ready by 9. Off to the Foundation.

Worked on the laptop all through the forenoon.

Lunch was okay but had reduced my intake considerably; so felt comfortable.

Tried to catch up on some siesta.

Off to Poojappura for the evening's session by the Ezhuthukoottam - "the autobiography of a book". It was a nice way to introduce a book penned by someone. And there were ten writers who'd come up with their experiences!

Secured from there by a quarter past 7. 

Went to the Poojappura jail cafe to have our dinner. Had parathas and chicken.

An early evening comparatively!

Reading Day (18).

Got up at 5, sent all the messages, turned off to sleep yet again and got up at a half past 6, washed up and recited my prayers. Went through my chores, washed clothes and was ready by 8. Anish took us to Thiruvallam for it was Muthachchan's Remembrance Day by the Malayalam calendar.

Offered the "bali tharpanam" and was helped by Sunitha of the Municipality thanks to Suma kunjamma's prodding. Damn sweet of her!

On return, had breakfast and reached the Foundation by 10. Went off to the Fine Arts Society's program at the Museum hall. Saw a new lift superimposed on the staircase which took Maman up and down. Circle Inspector Prashanth, the SHO of the Museum Police Station got the things going.

Lunch followed by siesta.

Got 

To the Poojappura traffic circle for the talk, "Sthreekalum samoohavum" by Prof Udayakala, who didn't fetch up eventually. I'd converted it into a 'samvaad' on the same topic and everyone participated, making it very interesting. 

Suma kunjamma was there; she wanted to sing and Maman was damn cross!

A comparatively early evening. 

Reading Day (17).

Got up around 6 in the morning, recited my prayers and turned back to sleep yet again. Got up at a half past 6, the chores and left for the railway station to drop Maman as he was headed to Alwaye for a function.

Worked on my laptop for a while.

Took Ammayi and Chambu to lunch at the Padma Cafe.

Returned and had an hour's siesta.

To Poojappura for the Sarga saayaahnam at 5. It was Salim Njekkanaal's talk on "Basheer anusmaranam".

Went to Saurashtra Hotel at the Overbridge for buying poories and allied stuff, for dinner.

At the Foundation waiting for Maman. His train came at a half past 9.

Back home by 10, dinner and a late hitting of the sack!

Reading Day (16).

Got up thrice at night for going round the corner and turned off to bed thereafter. Got up at a half past 6, washed myself and recited my prayers. Went through my morning chores thereafter and was ready by 9.

Off to the Foundation and did my official duties like transmitting my last night's blog, checking through my mail etc.

Lunch was prepared by Vasantha at the Foundation with dishes from home.

A short siesta.

Went to the Poojappura traffic round by a 20' to 5; had the environment set up and kick started the program by a 20' past 5. Dr Anil Kumar SD, an orthopedic surgeon dabbles in writing novels and poetry! The subject was "Manassum rogavum" and he'd covered the topic nicely and almost the entire audience asked him their queries/doubts and questions.

Secured earlier than normal as Maman had come to pick me up.

Dinner at 8, my blog writing and hit the sack at my usual time.   

Reading Day (15).

Dateline 03 Jul

Got up at 6, washed up and recited my prayers. Had to get away quickly and therefore, was ready by 8 to go for today's work. 

Reached the Foundation when Maman and party proceeded to the All Saints' College while I went by an autorickshaw to Vijin's clinic. The massage with 'murivenna' was carried out and felt that the treatment was doing good.

Reached back at the Foundation by a quarter to 11.

Our program at the All Saints' College went off fine. The transport minister was the chief guest.

Worked on my lap top.

Lunch was miserable; what amazes me is that a lunch could be so badly made in this competitive world!

A short siesta.

Went to Poojappura with Maman to hear Surya on "Saamskarika rangathe moolyachyuthi".

Secured for home from there. 

Reading Day (14).

Got up at 5, went to release myself and turned off to sleep yet again. Got up at a half past 6, went through the morning chores and was ready by a quarter past 8. Dropped Maman at the Foundation, Chambu at the railway station and finally reached the doctor by a quarter past 9.

Vijin tended my bruised leg, the 'murivenna' massage was very effective and he did it well. Left the place by a quarter past 10 and reached the Foundation within 20'.

Was quite relieved by the massage so much so that I could take weight on the wounded leg. Had a cup of tea and a vaazhakkyaappam along with Anish, the driver. Took the new tablet ordered by Vijin.

Lunch was a routine affair. Anish had bought us a a meal and we enjoyed it thoroughly.

The girls in the Foundation are eager to put the drops into my right eye.

Missed this evening's sarga saayaahnam too because of my leg. Today's event was "Katha, katha, kathayamma" by the Ezhuthukoottam group. It was very nice so says everyone!

Secured earlier than usual. A nice dinner and we were quick to call it a day!  

Reading Day (13).

Got up at 5, was totally sick and missed out on sending my usual messages. Walked within the house and recited my prayers. Had breakfast of idlis and sugar for breakfast. Then I'd a disastrous fall in our bathroom and hit my right thigh bone on the floor.

The pain was awful. Went to Dr Harindrababu and got medicines for the cough and cold, the pain.

Kannan, our chauffeur, had come with our car by then. We dropped Lekha at Letha's place and shaped course to Tvpm. Reached the Foundation at a 20' past 1. Took up the errand to All Saints' College to discuss the nitty-gritties of the day after's program. Professor Udayakala and the Principal, Reshmie S were there with me.

A cup of tea and banana fritters at the canteen.

Returned to the Foundation and did not go for the Sarga saayaahnam because of the pain in my thighs.

Secured from there at a quarter to 8.

An early dinner and hit the sack.

Reading Day (12).

Got up at 5, sent the messages, opened up the house for the day, lit up the puja room lamp and switched on the hymns on the television. Turned off to sleep again thereafter while waiting for the morning cuppa.

Morning cuppa with Lekha.

Walked within the house and recited my prayers.

Got ready and was ready by 9. Harikumar teacher came in by a half past 9 and we drove off to Edamon soon after. Enroute, he was keen to know about my relationship with my grandfather and he listened to my narration very attentively!

Reached Edamon High School and the proceedings got going soon after. A nice morning, a great meeting and the variety entertainment put up by the children was very nice.

On completion and after rounds of photography, they'd provided me chicken biriyani for lunch, served by Biju. Left soon after back in Harikumar teacher's car.

Reached home by a quarter past 2.

Finished my mail for the month of June and sent it off by about a half past 3.

Siesta.

A quiet evening thereafter.

Reading Day (11).

Got up at 5, sent the messages and turned back to sleep yet again. Got up again at a 10' past 6, opened up the house for the day lit up the puja room lamp and switched on the hymns on the television. Went through the chores and was ready by a 5' to 10.

Lekha and I reached UPS, Thalavoor on the dot at 10. The school took a bit of time to get things ready. It was a thoroughly wet day all through.

The Vaayana vaachaaranam, Vidyaarangam and distribution of 10 Mathrubhoomi newspapers to the school as an everyday affair got going. It was very interesting to interact with the children. An impromptu poem formulation (the tune and the first two lines were put across to them by Sheena miss, from the Vilakkudi education hiatus.

Went across to Raj Nivas for a short recess and returned and weren't they thrilled to see us back. They made me the judge for the drawing and short story competition and I must say that the children were too good! Was glad that Lekha thoroughly enjoyed the program. 

Had lunch and returned by a half past 2 followed by siesta.

The caretaker followed by Soman, my cousin, had dropped by for interaction.

    

Reading Day (10).

Got up at 5, sent the messages, turned off to sleep yet again. Got up at a half past 7 when the whole house was up and agog. Went about my chores preparing for my movement to Thalavoor this evening. 

Reminded Mr. Thampan about his evening's talk with us.

Maman is okay after his tooth extraction though his food intake leaves much to be desired. He had a good night's sleep which means that the pain is under control.

Washed all my soiled clothes, pressed the washed ones and finished my packing for going off to Thalavoor. Updated my blog, browsed my mail.

A quick nap.

Lunch followed by siesta.

Left for Poojappura with Chambu on his scooter.

It started raining soon after we'd reached our destination.

Mr Thampan had come in by a half past 5. The session was nice with a lot of participation from the audience post-talk.

Dropped Mr Thampan at his residence before we set course for Thalavoor. Reached Raj Nivas by a 20' past 9. Lekha had arrived earlier by a half past 5.

A quiet dinner and evening, thereafter.

Reading Day (9).

Got up at 5, sent the messages and turned off to sleep yet again. Got up at a half past 6, when the household was up and agog. 

Breakfast of idlis and chutney.

Set off for the Foundation at 9; dropped off at Sreenethra as my right eye seems to have caught up with an infection causing a red colouration. It ECHS empannelled and things went like clockwork. The environment was good and the staff very helpful, cordial and ever smiling.

Met Dr Shabna who has given me two drops to be administered on the infected eye every 3 hrs and the second, every 4 hrs. Lekha did the honours.

Lunch was bought from outside and after a quick bite, went to SK Hospital for Maman's tooth extraction. Returned after 2 hrs.

Tea and off to Poojappura. Kaaryavattam Sreekantan Nair spoke on "Kavitha saamoohya maattathinu". For the first time in this series, the audience was more than 35! The interaction was good and with Thomas coming in toward the end, it had reached a crescendo!

Thomas dropped me back home as Maman had left early for home and Chambu was not keen to take me on his two-wheeler without a helmet.

An early evening comparatively.  

 

Reading Day (8).

Got up at 5, sent the messages and turned off to sleep yet again to get up at a quarter to 7. Went through the chores and was ready by a quarter past 10.

Read a bit, rested quite a while being a holiday.

Lunch was at Padma Cafe at Statue. Good sadya!

Reached the Poojappura traffic circle by a trifle past 5.

Today's talk was by Sudarsan Kaarthikapparambil on "Lahariniranja kaumaaram". Nice interaction by the crowd, though sparse, at 28! I shared my experience too.

Poories and assorted Gujju flavoured dishes from the Saurashtra shop.

A quiet evening thereafter.

Reading Day (7).

Got up at 5, sent the messages and turned off to sleep yet again. Got up at a 20' to 6, the chores, washed two sets of clothes and was ready by 9. A quick bite of breakfast and we were off to the Foundation via the clinic from where the VSSC-empaneled form for Ammayi - for going to the Chaithanya Eye Hospital tomorrow.

Worked on my laptop.

Lunch was ordered from outside - a fish curry, meals for both Maman and me.

Siesta on the first floor.

Off to Poojappura by 5 via the Treasury to hand over our payment order to Bijumon sir to facilitate early encashment. The crowd took time to fetch up and we finally, kicked off Dr Usha Rani's "Bhakthiyum Vibhakthiyum" at a 25' past 6.

Meanwhile the crowd has been observing me, both behind and in front of the scene toward the conduct of the "Sarga saayaahnam". The strength was still hovering around 30, which I ain't happy about! The lecture was excellent followed by a very spirited interactive session.

Said my piece since Usha Rani had insisted upon it. 

 

Reading Day (6).

Got up at 5, sent the messages and turned off to sleep yet again. Got up at a 20' to 7, went through the chores and was ready well in time. We were off to the Foundation by a 5' past 9.

PJ Kurien had signed on the letter for supplementary allocations from the budget for Muthachchan's monument. I, somehow, feel that it's all a drama to throw us off their backs. And the story goes on!

Worked on my lap top.

Lunch and I'd asked Vasantha to go it easy on the quantity of food being given to me every afternoon.

This evening, my going to Poojappura was delayed by 45' as our tempo had come late from the two errands given to it.

Today's topic was "Anyamaakunna Malayalam" by Vilakkudi Rajendran which was great information and interestingly put across and the audience reaction was simply good. Had asked Johnson Roche to do the summing up.

Was a bit late by the last few days' standards! 

Reading Day (5).

Got up at 5, sent the messages and turned off to sleep yet again. Got up at a half past 7, went down to have the morning cuppa and had then gone through the chores. Was ready by 9.

Off to the Foundation. Worked on my laptop.

Off to the All Saints' College, met the college principal, Smt Rasmiye and the Malayalam professor, Udayakala to fix up the district-level reading program to be presided by CP John, the transport minister at 0930 hrs on 03 Jul.

Lunch and a very short siesta.

Off to Poojappura for the Sarga saayaahnam to listen to Venpakal Ganesh sir on "Kalayiloode saahithyathinte valarcha" which was enthralling in its content. 

A trip to the Foundation to pick up Maman's cellphone which he'd forgotten!

A late evening!

Reading Day (4).

Got up at a half past 2 to reduce water levels and found that sleep was hard to come by. Recited my prayers partially and turned off to sleep yet again.

Got up at 5, sent the messages, went through my chores and was ready before 9.

At the Foundation by a half past 9. Worked on my laptop.

Lunch; Vasantha was off key compared with her previous performances. Wonder whether Anish had spoken to her about my unsuccessful attempt to make her permanent at the Foundation after my word with Maman!

A bit of rest.

Off to Poojappura for the Sarga saayaahnam. It was Mr Suresan on the topic, "Chiriyum chinthayum". He'd suggested that we increase by another session on laughter in our itinerary!

Dropped Suma kunjamma at Kawadiar. Got flak over it.

A quiet evening thereafter. 

Reading Day (3).

Got up at 5, sent the messages and turned off to sleep yet again. Got up at a quarter past 7, went through the chores and was ready by a quarter past 9.

Had breakfast of puttum pazhavum pappadavum.

Worked on my laptop.

Took a short nap; had lunch.

A short siesta and we were off to the late Narayana Kurup sir's residence to offer our condolences. He was a lecturer in Malayalam at the University College, years back and was an admirer of PN Panicker. His body had been taken to the "Santhi kavaadam" by the time we reached there; spoke to Mrs Narayana Kurup and the family. He'd passed away last evening due to old age related illness; he was 92. Om Shanti! Sadgati.

We, then, went across to minister CP John's residence at Xanadu. He will interact with the students of Carmel Convent School, Thiruvananthapuram on 03 Jul at a half past 9 in the morning.

The next venue was at the Maanaveeyam Road where, on the occasion of the World Yoga Day, World Music Day and the Reading Month, we'd a an hour and a half's program by Isha Foundation's Sidharth Babu, a paralympian himself! Smt Anu Kumari, the Thiruvananthapuram District Collector had inaugurated the function!

And from there, we'd gone across to be part of the Sarga Saayaahnam program for the evening - a conglomeration of poets which was nice and cute.

Was back home by 8.

A quiet evening and dinner.    

Reading Day (2).

Got up at 5, sent the messages, went through my chores and was ready by a 10' to 9. We left for the Foundation at 9, dropped Maman there and an hour later, had gone along with Rajannan to drop Aniyan at the Railway station. He was returning to Kidangoor.

A quiet day to begin with.

Had got the caretaker going on plucking the coconuts for the three of us - Mini, Rema and Lekha. Mini had collected about 20 of them for her use in Bangalore! She, Ammu and Mithun had spent time with Rema and Padmakumar.

Lunch was handled by Vasantha, who'd given us rice, sambar and lime pickle.

Rested awhile.

Off to the Poojappura traffic circle for the "Sarga saayaahnam"; today's was ex-chief secretary VP Joy's talk on "Samakaalika samoohathil kavithakalude prasakthi". It was very interesting; I marvel at his elephantine memory as he recited poems that he'd studied during his childhood! I gave a brief 'Vote of Thanks' and assured the audience that "Reading shall never die".

A few from the audience congratulated me for articulating Muthachchan's idea on reading!

Secured from the Foundation by 8.

A quiet evening thereafter!

The 31st Reading Day.

The beginning of Reading Month 2026!

Got up at a half past 4, went through the chores and was ready by a half past 7. The announcement of the Reading Day and highlights of PN Panicker had come on the Akashvani and the FM Radio.

We were beside Muthachchan's statue by a 10' past 8. The floral tribute by the family and the cultural bigwigs went off smoothly. 

Mini, Ammu, Lekha and Letha came in from Kottarakkara, on time, in our car. Had breakfast at Abbas' teashop. Suma kunjamma footed the bill!

At Kanakakkunnu Palace by 11. It gradually got packed with students and elders.

The program started 45' late as the chief minister - he's also the Finance Minister - had presented the budget in the Assembly. He was accompanied by Shamsuddin, the Education Minister, PC Vishnunath, the Cultural Minister and Roji John, the Technical Education minister.  

The program went off fine with the audience being served both refreshments (Frooti and a piece of cake) and lunch (Vegetable Biriyani and peas curry). The CM has exhorted the children to make 'reading' a habit from today! He seemed to be excited while being with the children.

The outstation guests left, after lunch, by 2.

The evening program by Dr Manakkaala was nice on the topic, "Sangeethavum samoohavum)". The audience was less in strength at a paltry 32!

Returned home by a quarter to 8; dinner was lunch, heated up.

Brought up the diary and the blog online!

At Thiruvananthapuram.

Got up late, wonder why? It's, probably, because of the additional medicines that I'm taking for my sore throat. Made up for the delay and sent all the messages. Opened up the house for the day, lit up the puja room lamp and switched on the hymns on the television.

Morning cuppa with Lekha. It was nice being back at Raj Nivas.

Walked within the house, recited my prayers.

Bath and breakfast of idiyappams and eggs masala.

Monish had come on the dot; we cast off at about a quarter past 9. Dropped Lekha at Letha's place and headed for Thiruvananthapuram. Bought a belt from Bata, short of Kesavadasapuram.

Reached the Foundation by 12 and weren't people happy to see me back amid them?

Went to the Kanakakkunnu Palace to review the work being undertaken.

Had a simple lunch of rice, thiyyal and injikkari - the last two provided by Shekhar. Girija has been replaced by Vasantha who's very caring. Missed Girija, though, who'd looked after me during the last Reading Month celebrations!

Worked like a postman, cut and pasted addresses.

Went through the MC's - Soorya - dialogue delivery rehearsal. 

Made a trip to the Kanakakkunnu Palace but there wasn't any progress and the gates were locked!

Returned to have a quiet dinner of gruel, pulses, mango pickle and pappadam.

Spoke to Lekha and slept off around my usual time.

  

From The Quarterdeck to Raj Nivas.

Our day had begun at 4, though I must admit that I'd got up 10' later than Lekha as I'd overslept. Quickly caught up and went through the chores but was ready only by a quarter to 7. Earlier, by a 10' past 4, Monish had come by and caught up on his sleep.

We'd cast off by 7, fuelled the Victoris, returned to The Quarterdeck and picked up the injection, the car's papers and the bucket. Finally, cast off by a quarter past 7. Had breakfast at the Aryaas in Chalakkudy and reached Rema's flat at Thrippunithura by a half past 10. Rema had administered the injection - to enhance my Hb - on me.

We set off soon after. In between, we'd tea and snacks as lunch was getting delayed. Finally reached Letha's house by a quarter to 3. After a lovely lunch, we cast of by a quarter to 4. Lekha had dropped a portion of her luggage there as she'd return tomorrow once I leave for Thiruvananthapuram for the Vaayana Maasaacharanam!

Reached Raj Nivas by 4, the caretaker was there to receive us. Had a cuppa tea, a quick siesta and then SM Babukkutty Chacko and Saji had called on us. Chatted for a while. They're in the process of building a

War Memorial, which is nearing completion.

A quiet evening thereafter! It was nice to be back home.

FIFA facts (2).

 ....contd (2).

11. Paul Pogba's 2016 transfer fee of 105 million Euros was, at the time, larger than the entire annual 

      GDP of several small island nations.

12. In high-altitude stadiums like La Paz, Bolivia (3,600 km), the ball travels measurably faster and 

      farther. Visiting teams have called it "physically impossible" to play there.

13. The World Cup trophy cannot be held by the winning nation. They receive a gold-plated replica.

      The real one stays with FIFA permanently.

14. A football player runs on average 10-13 km per match, the equivalent of running two 5K races back

      to back, while sprinting, tackling and thinking tactically the whole time.

15. A football pitch's grass is cut to exactly 25-30mm for top matches. Groundskeepers spend more 

      preparation time on the surface than most fans ever notice.

16. During a penalty shootout, players' heart rates can exceed 180 bpm, the same as a full sprint, while

      standing completely still.

17. The first World Cup in 1930 had no qualifying rounds. Countries were simply invited and several

      said no because the boat trip to Uruguay was too long.

18. VAR can detect an offside by a margin of just a few centimetres, roughly the width of a thumb

      and disallow a goal scored from 70 metres away. 

19. Some Premier League clubs generate more revenue on a single matchday than entire national 

      football federations earn in a full year.

20. The fastest goal in World Cup history was scored by Turkiye's Hakan Sukur, just 11 seconds into 

      the third-place match against South Korea in 2002. Most fans hadn't even found their seats.

.......concluded.

Tailpiece.

Got up late, sent the messages all right, opened up the house for the day, lit up the puja room lamp

and switched on the hymns on the home theatre.

Hanina and Aadila, of the Rajah Medical team, came to draw my blood for the cbc and crp. The results were passed on to Dr Jimmy as he'd desired.

Morning cuppa with Lekha.

Walked within the house, recited my prayers and carried out my exercise regimen.

Bath and breakfast of puttum payarukariyum.

Worked on my laptop.

Lekha goes to the temple to have a darshan of the good Lord.

Badaruddin comes and collects Muthachchan's photograph; briefs me about the meeting called by the District Collector toward the conduct of the Reading Month 2026.

Lunch followed by siesta.

FIFA facts (1).

Now that it's the FIFA Cup season, let's visit some interesting facts :-

    1. Brazil is the only nation to have played in every single FIFA World Cup, all 22 editions from

        1930 to 2022, never missing a single one.

    2. The ball used in the 2010 World Cup (the Jabulani) was so aerodynamically unpredictable that

        goalkeepers across the tournament compared it to a "plastic bag in the wind".

    3. Messi holds a record 8 Ballon d'Or awards, more than the combined total of most entire national

        teams have won major international trophies.

    4. A professional footballer makes over 1,000 individual decisions per game, most in under half a

        second.

    5. The fastest player speed recorded in the Premier League is 37.38 kmph set by Micky van de Ven

        and players hit these speeds mid-match, under fatigue, in real competitive pressure.

    6. Cristiano Ronaldo became the first individual in history to surpass 1 billion social media followers.

        His Instagram alone has over 639 million, more than the combined populations of the US, UK

        and Germany.

    7. The net behind a goal is not required by the Laws of the Game. It's technically optional.

    8. India qualified for the 1950 World Cup but withdrew because FIFA banned barefoot play as the 

        myth claims but due to funding issues, logistical chaos and the AIFF simply not prioritising the

        tournament over the Olympics.

    9. A goalkeeper defending a penalty has to dive before the ball is struck. The human eye simply 

        cannot react fast enough afterward.

  10. The entire Laws of the Game that govern football worldwide fit into a document shorter than

        most corporate employee handbooks.

        .........to be continued.

Tailpiece.

Got up at 5, sent the messages, opened up the house for the day, lit up the puja room lamp and switched on the hymns on the home theatre.

Sajish comes by and gives me my monthly haircut, massage.

Morning cuppa with Lekha.

Walked within the house, recited my prayers and carried out my exercise regimen.

Breakfast of dosas and 'kadala'.

An early lunch.

To the Saroja Hospital to meet up with Dr Sreekumar Pillai for her review.

Jimmy changes the antibiotic after seeing my state of health.

Adieu brave men!

Five Indian Air Force personnel were killed and one was injured when an AN-32 transport aircraft crashed after landing at the Air Force Station in Jorhat, Assam, yesterday. The incident took place around 10 AM at Rowriah airbase in Jorhat. The aircraft had taken off from the same base for a routine sortie.

The deceased personnel are :-

* Squadron Leader Prashant Singh

* Flight Lieutenant Shubham Kumar

* Sergeant Jitendra Sharma

* Agniveervayu Khemaram  Kumawat

* Agniveervayu Danish Alam

Adieu my dear brothers! My tears and prayers!! May your families have the strength to tide over these difficult times!

The name of the co-pilot has not been released by the IAF for reasons of protocol. Can imagine what must be going on in his mind......he's cursing himself for not having joined his buddies on their way to Valhalla. It's a very awkward situation to be in.

Tailpiece.

Got up at 5, sent the messages, opened up the house for the day, lit up the puja room lamp and switched on the hymns on the home theatre.

Morning cuppa with Lekha.

Walked within the house, recited my prayers and carried out my exercise regimen.

Breakfast of dosas and chutney.

Bath and work on my laptop.

Lunch, followed by siesta.

The evening chores.

 

A quiet Saturday!

Got up at 5, sent the messages, opened up the house for the day, lit up the puja room lamp and switched on the hymns on the home theatre.

Morning cuppa with Lekha.

Walked within the house, recited my prayers and carried out my exercise regimen.

Bath followed by breakfast of dosas and chutney.

Worked on my laptop.

A comparatively early lunch and was off to Thrissur, by a quarter past 2, for overseeing the district level Foundation's committee's decisions regarding the various actions to be taken for the Reading Month '26. The meeting was over by a quarter to 6. Was satisfied.

Returned to a quiet evening.

The Indian Luxury Paradox.

A crib one always has is to go West for a "better life" but when you look at the daily math, India offers a level of convenience that is a billionaire's dream in London or NYC.

Here's why Everyday India is Indian Luxury Paradox.

1.  The 7 AM Routine. Fresh physical newspaper at your doorstep for the price of a single peanut.. In

     the west, this is a dying, high-priced subscription service.

2. Data Democracy. While the world pays $50+ for basic internet, we enjoy high-speed 5G for about

    Rs.300/- per month. We have the cheapest data on the planet and it has turned our economy digital

    overnight.

3. The "10-Minute" Miracle. Forgot ginger for your tea? Blinkit, Zepto or Swiggy Instamart have it

    at your door before the water even boils. In Europe, you're putting on a coat and walking 15 minutes

    to a store that's probably closing soon.

4. Healthcare on Demand. Need a specialist? Walk in. Need a blood test? Someone is at your house by

    6 AM to take a sample and the report is on What'sApp by noon. No 3-month waiting lists, no 

    "insurance-approved" nightmares.

5. The Human Support System. Domestic help - cooks, cleaners and drivers - isn't elite here, it's the

    backbone of the middle class. It grants us the greatest luxury of all : TIME.

6. The UPI Revolution. From a Rs.5 chai at a roadside stall to a Rs.50,000 laptop, it's all one scan

    away. No wallets, no "Card Machine Down" excuses, no transaction fees. The world is still playing

    catch-up.

7. "Free Essentials". Walk into any restaurant and get a glass of water without a Rs.5 charge. Get

    your clothes ironed for pocket change by the local Press-wala. It's the small things that make life 

    smooth.

8. The Social Safety Net. We don't live in a "litigation culture". We live in a community culture. If 

    you're in trouble, your neighbour is more likely to bring you khichdi than a lawsuit.

The Bottom Line.

India isn't just a country; it's a high-functioning ecosystem of convenience. While the West is busy with the "DIY" struggle (mowing their own lawns and waiting weeks for a plumber), India provides a service-rich lifestyle that is affordable, accessible and deeply human.

Verdict. We often realise the value of the "Indian Comfort" only when we have to do our own laundry and dishes abroad!

So - Go East or West India is the Best

Tailpiece.

Got up at 5, sent the messages, opened up the house for the day, lit up the puja room lamp and switched on the hymns on the home theatre.

Morning cuppa with Lekha.

Walked within the house, recited my prayers and carried out my exercise regimen. 

Off to Rani Menon's Eye Hospital at Thrissur for Lekha's review.

Returned and had a delayed lunch followed by siesta.

Met Jimmy at his clinic to get treatment for my bad throat.

A quiet evening thereafter.

 

Back @ The Quarterdeck!

The day began at 3 for the both of us today, went through the daily chores and were ready by a quarter to 5. We, finally, left by a quarter past 5 in a Tempo Traveller which was literally hunting for fuel as many bunks - we'd crossed three such ones on our way to Raipur, from Bilaspur - did not have the requisite stock!

Reached the airport well in time; Lekha and I were photographed with the staff of Indigo - young Priyanka and Rahul. They said it was for some official purpose! We were nine of us on the flight to Bangalore. Breakfast was on me, being the 'patriarch' and the youngsters enjoyed it.

We broke off at Bangalore, on landing - Achu-Karthika got off at Bangalore, Sharath, Manoj-Mini and their daughters, Shreya and Sraddha were off by another flight to Thiruvananthapuram.

Reached Kochi by 2, Sajish was there to pick us up, lunch at Saravana Bhavan and we sped for Guruvayur, reaching The Quarterdeck by 5. We'd unpacked and opened up the house as there were evening showers.

Slept at our usual time. 

The last four days at the wedding jamboree of Yash and Adhira were blissful and full of fun. Enjoyed every bit of it!

 

@ Bilaspur (4).

Got up at 5 as Lekha wanted to get into the saree that she was planning to wear at the wedding for which, Rema assisted her. Sent the messages and we’d our breakfast at 9.

The wedding took place at 1145 hrs before the commencement of the ‘rahu kaalam’. A nice and colourful event with over 300 guests. After the numerous rounds of photography, lunch was had around a half past 1. We retired into the cosy confines of our room, deciding against going to Yash’s house in connection with the ‘griha pravesam’ of the married couple.

The event was meant for the close relatives of both the families and the house was a flat in town. A good siesta thereafter.

The evening’s ‘reception’ was again, a boisterous affair and we handed over the gift to the newly married couple. It was comparatively an early night as we head for the airport at 5 in the morning!

@ Bilaspur (3).

Got up at 5, sent the messages and turned off to sleep yet again to get up at a half past 7.

Morning cuppa with Lekha.

Wash, change and breakfast.

Attended the ‘haldi ceremony’, at about 11, in yellow coloured clothes! Applied haldi on the young couple as part of the ritual.

Lunch followed by siesta.

The ceremony of receiving ‘dakshina’ and offering our blessings. Lekha and I danced in separate groups for the production of reels on the occasion!

The ‘sangeet’/entertainment program began an hour late for the power trips to be licked. 

A long drawn out dinner but it was nice.

@ Bilaspur (2).

Felt uncomfortable for a few hours because of a late dinner. Was okay by a half past 2 and slept well. Got up at 5 thanks to the alarm. Turned back to sleep again and got up at a half past 7.

Morning cuppa with Lekha. Washed up and had gone down for breakfast. Came back to our room and then, were part of the reception for the bride’s party.

Lunch at 2 followed by siesta.

Went for the “mehndi” by 7. A three-hour lovely evening of music and meeting up with people. Had dinner - a light one at that!

Rema, Padmakumar, Achu and Karthika had come in late.

At Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh.

Dateline 07 Jun 

Our day had begun at 4. After freshening up, recited my prayers while walking within the house. Lit up the puja room lamp and we were ready by 7.

Sajish came in then and we kicked off at a quarter past 7. Got through the first step of entering the cab as it was bright and sunny at Guruvayur which changed gradually as we drove southward when it began to pour.

Got off at the Saravana Bhavan near the airport and Lekha and I’d a plain dosa with coffee for breakfast.

Entered the airport three hours before our boarding time, got wheelchair assistance for Lekha and reached the boarding point at gate 9 and waited for our call. Departed Kochi at a quarter past 12 and reached Goa - on transit - by a quarter past 1.

Befriended Jacob Zachariah and Raji who shared their small eats with us and I gave them our coke. Lunch of poha (for Lekha) and dal chawal (for me). They disappeared on landing at Raipur! Reached Raipur by 4. Dinesh Yadav was our sa’arthi for the long 135 km drive to Bilaspur.

Reached Hotel Grande Emerald by a half past 7. Met Bharathi chechi and Santhosh on arrival. Rest and bath; later dinner with Manoj and family.

A comparatively early night!

A thoroughly wet day.

Got up at a quarter to 5, sent the messages, opened up the house for the day, lit up the puja room lamp and switched on the hymns on the home theatre.

Morning cuppa with Lekha.

It was a thoroughly wet day. Walked within the house, recited my prayers and carried out my exercise regimen.

Bath followed by breakfast of upma, bananas.

Worked on my laptop.

Lunch, watched television for a while followed by siesta.

A quiet evening. Rejith, of Black Swan, comes with a batch of dry washed clothes.

Shut down The Quarterdeck by evening.

Gifted the maid with 100/- for a good job done!

An afternoon Google meet of the Foundation for :-

  

   * details of setting up a 'community radio station' passed on to our folks 

   * the details of celebrating the Vaayana Maasam 2026.

 

12 years that redefined India.

The story of New India is not built on a single achievement. It is the result of bold reforms, visionary 

initiatives and transformative milestones that have reshaped the nation over the last 12 years. 

* JAM trinity

* GST

* 4 crore + pucca houses

* Vaccine Maitri

* Semiconductor revolution

Together, these milestones reflect a commitment to reform, innovation and inclusive growth.

Guided by the vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas, the Modi government has shown how decisive leadership and effective execution can turn aspirations into achievements.

Tailpiece.

A quiet but wet Friday.

 

The changing Northeast India.

Once seen as a distant frontier, the Northeast is today emerging as a hub of connectivity, investment and opportunity under PM Narendra Modi's leadership.

* National highways expanded from 10,905 km in 2014 to over 16,200 km.

* Landmark projects like the Sela Tunnel and Bhairabi-Sairang railway line are enhancing all weather

   connectivity.

* Operational airports doubled from 9 to 17 under UDAN.

* Natural farming is gaining momentum across Assam, Nagaland and Manipur.

* The Rs.27,000 crore Tata semiconductor plant is positioning Assam as a manufacturing powerhouse.

* Violent incidents fell by nearly 70% between 2014 and 2024.

* 12 historic peace accords have strengthened stability across the region.

Tailpiece.

From better roads and railways to peace and prosperity, the Northeast is scripting a remarkable new chapter in India's growth story.

Touching a baby bird will cause its mother to abandon it.

The fact

Most birds do not abandon their chicks simply because a human has touched them.

What's really happening

A common belief is that parent birds can smell human scent on their chicks and reject them. However, most bird species rely far more on sight and sound than smell when caring for their young.

If a nesting falls from its nest, wildlife experts generally agree that it can be returned safely. In most cases, the parents will continue feeding and caring for it as normal.

However, excessive disturbance near a nest can stress parent birds and may cause them to avoid the area. The real risk is repeated interference, not human scent.

Why it matters

This myth can discourage people from helping young birds that have accidentally fallen from their nests.

Understanding how birds actually care for their young can improve wildlife rescue efforts and give vulnerable chicks a better chance of survival.

Tailpiece.

Got up at 5, sent the messages, opened up the house for the day, lit up the puja room lamp and switched on the hymns on the home theatre.

Morning cuppa with Lekha.

Walked on the courtyard, recited my prayers and carried out my exercise regimen.

Bath, breakfast of appams and stew.

Worked on my laptop.

Lunch, watched television followed by siesta.

A quiet evening.

Ammu does it!

My niece, Ammu, had begun her American sojourn  for about five years. Initially, she was at the Boston University doing her course which she'd passed out with flying colours. She took up a part-time job with the banking giant, JP Morgan Chase and has been at it all the while.

From Boston she'd shifted to San Francisco and was doing her job there. In between, she'd gone through quite a few job interviews within the bank which always had a bit of ill luck toward the end.

She never lost heart, persisted with her perseverance and here's the result. 

It was nice to hear her happy voice breaking the exciting news to us! Here's us wishing her the very best in her onward endeavours!

Tailpiece.

Got up at 5, sent the messages, opened up the house for the day, lit up the puja room lamp and switched on the hymns on the home theatre.

Morning cuppa with Lekha.

Walked partly on the road in front of the house and within the courtyard; recited my prayers and carried out my exercise regimen.

Breakfast of appams and egg masala.

Worked on my laptop.

Bath, lunch, watched television for a while followed by siesta.

The sky was overcast throughout the day with rains spread most of the time.

A quiet evening!

Israel seizes Beaufort Castle in Lebanon

Israel has vowed to push deeper into Lebanon after its military took over the medieval castle of Beaufort, calling it a "dramatic shift" in the campaign against Hezbollah. The Iran-backed militant group said it targeted Israeli army positions and infrastructure in Shlomi and Nahariya in northern Israel, while air raid sirens blared in the Acre area.

Meanwhile, the US continues to be in a stalemate on the Iranian front.

Tailpiece.

Got up at 5, sent the messages, opened up the house for the day, lit up the puja room lamp and switched on the hymns on the home theatre.

Morning cuppa with Lekha.

Walked on the road in front of the house, recited my prayers and carried out my exercise regimen. 

Work of giving protection to the rubber trees that are being tapped, within the compound of Raj Nivas, was completed today.

A quiet Monday.

A case for virtual autopsy.

"Doctor, is it possible to avoid performing a post-mortem on my child?" It was a heart-wrenching question that a forensic surgeon in Kerala had encountered recently when an eight-year-old, who had drowned in a swimming pool during a family outing, was brought for post-mortem examination. For grieving families, the anguish is often compounded by the thought of a surgical blade  cutting into the body of a loved one, the distress of seeing it stitched up after examination or religious beliefs surrounding death and dignity.

To address such concerns, forensic experts in Kerala have proposed a modern method - "virtual autopsy" (VA) or 'virtopsy'. A detailed project report for establishing a VA centre in the public sector is pending with the state government.

The technique makes it possible to determine the cause of death without cutting open the body. While VA may not be applicable in all cases, it could significantly reduce the need for conventional open-body autopsies.

Core equipment proposed

* 16/32-slice CT scanner for whole-body scans, particularly bone injuries and internal trauma

* 1.5T/3T MRI scanner for detailed soft tissue, brain and cardiac evaluation

* 3D image reconstruction workstations for forensic visualisation and virtual dissection

* Forensic radiology software with medico-legal modules such as Amira, Mimics and OsiriX MD

* Picture archiving and communication system (PACS) with secure cloud back up

My take

A step in the right direction; it would be using technology to our advantage.

Tailpiece.

Got up at 5, sent the messages, opened up the house for the day, lit up the puja room lamp and switched on the hymns on the home theatre.

It's Lekha's birthday by the English calendar. Wished her first thing in the morning!

Morning cuppa with Lekha.

Walked on the road in front of The Quarterdeck, recited my prayers and carried out my exercise regimen.

A quiet Sunday! 

At Thrissur.

Got up at 5, sent the messages, opened up the house for the day, lit up the puja room lamp and switchrd on the hymns on the home theatre.

Morning cuppa with Lekha.

Walked halfway down the road in front of The Quarterdeck as there was shade above from the harsh sun, recited my prayers and carried out my exercise regimen.

Worked on my laptop.

Lunch, a spot of siesta.

Off to Thrissur to attend the Foundation's meeting to discuss the district-level co-ordination of the Vaayana Maasam activities. Badaruddin accompanied me.

A quiet evening thereafter.

A hectic Friday!

Got up at a 10' to 5 to see off Rema and Sathyabhama, who had their reservations in the Guruvayur-Madurai Fast Passenger. Opened up the house for the day, lit up the puja room lamp and switched on the hymns on the home theatre.

Morning cuppa with Lekha.

Walked on the road in front of The Quarterdeck, recited my prayers and carried out my exercise regimen.

Selvam had come for pressing the clothes and Ramesan and his understudy came for the monthly clean up. Lekha gave them puri-bhaaji for breakfast and the sight of them having food was too good.

Bath and breakfast.

Worked on the laptop.

Lunch; watched Crime Patrol followed by siesta.

The evening chores.

Kuttu, Vani, Naina and Sidharth along with Suma Kunjamma dropped by around 8 and left by a half past 10.

A late evening!