Ordo Ab Chao

Trip to Mahabalipuram

Only 2 km from Mahabalipuram Bus Station, the Shore Temple is an ancient temple overlooking the shore of the Bay of Bengal in Mahabalipuram. Built in the 7th century CE by Pallavas during the reign of Narasimhavarman, this is one of the oldest temples in South India. Both Shiva and Vishnu are worshipped in this temple. The Shore Temple is a five-storeyed structural Hindu temple built of granite. The temple is an beautiful example of the Dravidian style It has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the ‘Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram’.

Nature’s mystery at its best! This is a 250-ton rock boulder known as Krishna’s Butterball in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu. What’s the catch here? This immensely massive 20 feet high rock stands on a slippery slope of a hill on less than 4-feet base defying gravity. The position of the rock is so that it should have rolled down the slope however it does not. It is called Krishna’s butterball because butter is his favorite food. The local legend states that it fell from heaven hence also called the ‘Vaanirai Kal’ in Tamil which means ‘Stone of the Sky God’.

Pancha Rathas or the Pandava Rathas dates back to the 7th century reign of the Pallava dynasty. The five rathas are named ‘Dharmaraja Ratha’, ‘Bhima Ratha’, ‘Arjuna Ratha’, ‘Nakula Sahadeva Ratha’, and ‘Draupadi Ratha’ from ‘Mahabharata’. Each of the five structures is chiseled in the shape of rathas or chariots out of a large block of stone or monolith of granite. Although unfinished and never consecrated, these rathas that are often erroneously referred to as temples and are one of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites. The complex is entirely maintained under the patronage of the ‘Archaeological Survey of India’ (ASI) and has remained one of the famous Dravidian style architecture example.

How to reach :

By air: The nearest airport is Chennai, which is about 60 kilometers away as Mahabalipuram does not have an airport.

By train: The main train junction is Chengalpattu which is connected well to Chennai by express and mail trains. From the station, the Mahabalipuram beach is about only a distance of around 30 km by road.

Did you visit Mahabalipuram – what places did you like?

Reach me on Facebook or Instagram if you have any questions regarding the travel to Warangal.

Please travel responsibly and do not litter. Happy Travelling!

Trip to Gokarna

Gokarna is a beach cum temple city located in North Karnataka. “Gokarna” or ‘cow’s ear’, it is named after the mythological transformation of Lord Shiva into a form of a cow. The temple is believed to have been built in 4th century and is a popular destination for Shiva- devotees. Apart from that, Gokarna attracts a lot of youngsters as a cheap alternative to Goa. The beaches are connected and can be covered by hikes arranged by the local trek groups.

Fisheries road, must travel on this road to view the beauty of the coastal road

Malpe Beach

Located near Udupi, this virgin beach is quite nice compared to the crowded beaches of Gokarna. The sand is almost white and very fine. One can take a quick boat ride to St Mary’s Island. We went to the Malpe beach sea walk which was a very beautiful spot for witnessing sunsets.

Kapu beach

The gem of this beach is the beautiful lighthouse. The lighthouse was built in 1901. Surrounded by sand and rocks, the lighthouse has wear and tear. It was long before that the lighthouse served as the beacon of safety for ships. Kapu lighthouse is open to visitors from 4 PM to 6 PM daily.

Gokarna beach

If you have a relaxing weekend on your mind with Bohemian vibes, Gokarna Beach is for you. The main beach in Gokarna is good for a long walk and also for swimming. One can walk along the beach for close to 3-4 km and the beachside is dotted with shacks which also provide accommodation.

Om beach

Two crescents joined together to form an “Om” hence the name. The beach offers a breathtaking view of the sunset. Om cafe, though on the expensive side, is a must-visit on the beach. Please note that you may need to take permission for flying drone in this area.

Delta point

Just about 10 kilometers from Malpe beach, is this beautiful and breathtaking beach which marks the formation of a delta. Suvarna River drains its silt into the Arabian Sea and it is just mesmerizing to be there. It is still one of the most off-beaten beaches

Maravanthe Beach

The roadside drive of Maravanthe beach is possibly one of the most beautiful roads in India. The bird’s eye view is unparallel. The rocky walkways are laid at regular intervals onto the sea. The sea is quite rough here hence caution should be exercised.

How to reach :

By road: Tourists can travel to Gokarna by road. KSRTC ply its frequent bus service in the region. Best way to travel from is Dabolim (140 km) and Bangalore (475 km) which all well linked to Gokarna by KSRTC buses.

By air: Nearest airports are in Dabolim in Goa which located 140 kilometer Taxis are available from airports to Goa.

By train: The main train junction is Gokarna Station which is connected well by all major junctions.

Reach me on Facebook or Instagram if you have any questions regarding the travel to Warangal.

Did you visit Gokarna – what places did you like?

Please travel responsibly and do not litter. Happy Travelling!

Yellowface

I had picked up this book by Rebecca F Kuang – my first book by the author – since this was a July BOTM pick for our Book club Between the Pages. However, I dived in as soon as possible after reading the book’s premise.

June Hayward witnesses her close friend Athena Liu’s death due to an accident (pivotal is the fact that she is the only witness) and dashes to pick up a few carelessly strewn manuscript notes on the spur of the moment. She edits the entire novel and ends up with a lifetime opportunity deal. The story picks up here where the lines are blended and erased in the name of racism, diversity, and plagiarism. The book is the perfect satire on the society we live in, the one ruled by social media followers.

“Every time she tried to branch out to new projects, they kept insisting that Asian was her brand, was what her audience expected. They never let her talk about anything other than being an immigrant, other than the fact that half her family died in Cambodia, that her dad killed himself on the twentieth anniversary of Tiananmen. Racial trauma sells, right? They treated her like a museum”
Yellowface, R.F Kuang

This book reveals the ugly face of the world, especially when it is cornered. How we jump to defend the ideologies because that is what garners the income or the reputation! It barely matters whether we actually believe in the ideologies and the social implications it carries.
Can we adapt someone else’s story and write about it without crediting the sources since the story may belong to otherwise, a nameless entity in the crowd of teeming millions? Is it rightful to edit a manuscript or rather a very basic scribbled idea, and weave it into a beautiful story – claim it to be one’s own work?

Buy the book here!

“Writing is the closest thing we have to real magic”
Yellowface, R.F Kuang

The book hits the right notes with the difficulties of getting published. The cost of fame comes at a price and most of the time, the authors are not ready to delve into the vortex of the publicity gimmicks. I suppose for any author, the worst imaginable situation is to be accused of plagiarism and be canceled based on such allegations. Rest assured, social media trolls are always out for blood and it is often difficult to adjust to the reality of glamorous life.

Head to the comment section and let us know if you have read the book. You can also reach me on Facebook or Instagram to share your views.

Cheers to Reading!

Quotes by Paulo Coelho

Paulo Coelho, the Brazilian author, is world renowned for his plethora of motivational books. Readers like me, seek doses of peace and inspiration from his books.

ইন্দুবালা ভাতের হোটেল

কল্লোল লাহিড়ীর ইন্দুবালা ভাতের হোটেল পড়ার ইচ্ছে অনেক দিন ধরেই ছিল| ভেবেছিলাম হৈচৈ তে সিরিজ আসার আগেই পরে নেব, কিন্তু নানা কারণে তা পড়া হয়নি – অবশেষে দিদির থেকে ধার নিয়ে এক দিনেই পরে ফেললাম|

আসলে কিছু কিছু বই আছে যেগুলো পড়া হয়না |মনে হয় শব্দদের স্রোতে ভাসতে ভাসতে পৌঁছে যাচ্ছি যেখানে লেখক নিয়ে যেতে চান| ঠিক প্রথম পাতা থেকেই পৌঁছে গেলাম কলাপোতা গ্রাম,সেখান থেকে ছেনু মিত্র লেনের দিকে যাত্রা করা বিধবা ইন্দুবালা মল্লিকের ভাতের হোটেলে|

ইন্দুবালার গল্প কিন্তু শুধু একা একটি মেয়ের লড়াইয়ে সফল হওয়ার গল্প না – গল্পের ভাজে ভাজে আছে বছরের পর বছর না পাওয়ার ইচ্ছেগুলোতে ধুলো জমা স্মৃতি; আছে সমাজের আর সংসারে কাছে হেরে যাওয়ার ব্যাথা| আছে মুক্তি যুদ্ধে শহীদ মনিরুল , আছে ভাষা যুদ্ধে শহীদ ভাই , আছে শ্রেণী যুদ্ধে শহীদ কমরেইড আলোক, আছে উচ্ছৃঙ্খলতার জীবন যুদ্ধে হেরে যাওয়া মাস্টার রতন লাল মল্লিক|

এতো দূর পড়ে কি কপালে ভাঁজ পড়লো? ভাবছেন বই তা পড়বেন কিনা?

বইটা পড়তেই হবে| ইন্দুবালা মল্লিক হলো আশার প্রতীক| ঝোড়ো হওয়ার কাছে যেমন ছোট প্রদীপ প্রাণপণে চেষ্টা করে আলোর শিখা বাঁচিয়ে রাখার – ইন্দুবালা একটার পর একটা প্রতিবন্ধকতা কাটিয়ে উঠে সেই ভাবেই| সাথে না থাকলেও অন্তরে জিয়ে রাখে মা-ঠাকুমার শিখানো রান্না, সংসার ধর্ম; কদর করে শাশুড়ির দূরদৃষ্টিটা; পদে পদে পায় লছমীর বন্ধুত্বর আলিঙ্গন ; ধনার মন ভালো করা যত্ন | ভাতের হোটেলে পালে পালে আসা আসে পাশের মেস বাড়ির কলেজ আর অফিস কেরানি দল নিয়ে সবসময় গমগম করতে থাকে ইন্দুবালার ভাতের হোটেলে| এপার বাংলা আর ওপর বাংলার রান্নার সাথে মিশে যায় আদরের সম্পর্কগুলো| দুই ছেলে আর মেয়েকে সাবলম্বী করার সার্থকতা ইন্দুকে দেয় ততটাই গর্ব যতটা তার তিলে তিলে তৈরী করা ভাতের হোটেল| ভাতের হোটেল হয়ে উঠে তার অবিচ্ছেদ্ধ পরিচয়|

দুই দেশ বিভঙ্গ এর উপরে উঠে এসে প্রতিকূলতা জয় করা যায় তার এক জ্বলন্ত উদাহরণ ইন্দুবালার ভাতের হোটেল| অবশ্যি পড়বেন, নাহলে ইন্দুবালার হাতের সুস্বাদু রান্নার থেকে বঞ্চিত থেকে যাবেন!

কেমন লাগলো জানাতে ভুলবেন না – সরাসরি জানান Facebook বা Instagram

Top 5 Free Audible podcasts

Woice with Warikoo

Ankur Warikoo is a household name as a self-help coach especially, for topics like time management and finance management. Usually, a short podcast, that occupies the listeners with rapt attention for various topics like personal growth, balancing risk, and aiming for entrepreneurship.

Listen on Audible (Amazon Prime Member)

Kaali Awaazein

Hands down one of the best horror audio podcasts I have ever heard. The stories are quite regular but the audio effects will surely cause the hair on your neck to stand! Narrated by stalwarts like Amitabh Bachchan, the audio series has been voiced by a lot of eminent actors. Make sure you plug in your earphones for the best effect!

Listen on Audible (Amazon Prime Member)

Michelle Obama : The light podcast

The former First Lady of the USA, Michelle Obama explores these podcasts with prominent guests on what ails today’s world and the possible solution for them. Be it issues on how to overcome hurdles, or inclusivity based on gender or race. She regales with her hilarious anecdotes and keeps the audience engrossed in such topics.

Listen on Audible (Amazon Prime Member)

Mandela : The Lost Tapes

Listen to the tapes of Nelson Mandela where he is interviewed by Richard Stengel during his imprisonment. We get a glimpse of the stellar life of Nelson Mandela, what shaped his political career – basically what made Mandela, a world-acclaimed personality. His words will inspire generations to come who have dreams in their eyes for a discrimination-free world.

Listen on Audible (Amazon Prime Member)

Tuesday People

One of the famous authors, Mitch Albom talks about his teacher Morrie, who in his last days, was an epitome of optimism. Possible when you know you are about to walk on the path of light, life channels all of its accumulated wisdom to be distributed just like butterflies distribute pollen for giving way to a better generation.

Listen on Audible (Amazon Prime Member)

Have you listened to any of these podcasts? Is there any podcast you would like to share which is a must-listen? Please note that all these podcasts come free with Amazon Prime membership. You can also reach me on Facebook or Instagram to share your book views.

Cheers to Reading!

Independence

Chitra Karuna Banerjee has paid tribute to her roots in Kolkata. Contrary to her previous books, this book is more fiction than facts. However, surely a reader would lose oneself in the atrocities caused in the name of religion. The lines were drawn by the British and Indian politicians – the effect rippled across the people,even more than it was anticipated.

“The year is 1947. It is the best of times, it is the worst of times.”
Independence, Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

Deepa, Priya, and Jamini lived with their family in Ranipur near Bengal. Each young girl harbored individual dreams for their future. Bina and Nabakumar do their best to give a secure future to each of their beloved daughters. Just like any ordinary family, the family thrives on respect and a meager income. Nabakumar’s medical skills imbibe into the youngest one, Priya who aspires to be a doctor. Jamini, never losing her heart to her deformed legs, tries her best to be the perfect daughter. Deepa plans on utilizing her beauty for a secure match. All of their dreams go for a toss when the Calcutta Hindu-Muslim riots snatch their father’s life. As readers, we stand helpless, as we see the family dwindling into misery and undiscerning hatred toward Muslims.

Buy the book here!

When men go off to be heroes, do they even realize what it does to the women they leave behind?
Independence, Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

While Deepa succumbs to her choices, Priya fights for her dream to become a doctor. Jamini capitalizes on Bina’s affection. Sibling jealousy and conditional love surpass the sisterhood and throw before each sister, a life-altering decision. The political turmoil sets Ranipur on fire and thus sets fire to the lives of the sisters. they are torn by their choices, often justified in the name of love. Somewhere in the story, I lost myself in the partition fight between the sister over their family, each seeking their own independence. The inner commotion rocks the entire family. The independence of the motherland is entwined with the independence of three sisters and their mother.

Comedy of error movies in Bollywood

Ludo

A beautifully executed story with 4 protagonists pursuing their chase for “home”. Just like a token moves along the Ludo board, the protagonists take chances, loose a few to achieve their versions of home. The movie is a visual treat with the stories crossing paths at unexpected junctures.

Lootcase

A heavily underrated comedy movie is Lootcase on Disney Hotstar. A man finds a bag full of money with no claimant around. He gives into temptation and carries it home and utilizes the cash for his expenditures. What creates mayhem is when both police and owners come looking for the bag! Kunal Khemu nails his comic timings and it’s a laughter riot from start to end.

Ghanchakkar

“Lazy lad” dance, belonging to Ghanchakkar, became quite a rage a few days back on reels. The powerhouse performances by Emraan Hashmi and Vidya Balan stole the show! A bank, looted by 3 thieves, part ways and decide to meet later after a few months when the commotion has settled down. The crux occurs when one of the thieves succumbs to short-term amnesia and forgets where he had hidden his bag. Vidya Balan is a show-stealer amidst the cast. A must-watch for any weekend!

Blackmail

A dark-comedy movie wherein a husband blackmails his wife for money in lieu of revealing her adulterous nature, of course, incognito. The fun starts when the wife panics and asks for money from the husband. Chaos ensue and there are series of unresolved twists which are unraveled only at the end.

Andhadhun

When a glass of Tragedy is tipped with ice of comedy – it gives birth to Andhadhun. Sriram Raghavan twists and manipulates the audience. A fake blind person walks into a sudden trap and falls prey to greed and lust. The movie narrative is so fast-paced that you blink an eye and you lose vital information for the ending of the movie. The movie tickles your intelligence till the very end and makes you laugh at places inspite of the darkness in the plot.

Do you like the listicle of tragedy & comedy movie suggestions? Head over to the comment section and let us know if you have watched any of the series!
You can also reach me on Facebook or Instagram to share your views.

Please do not use the photos without permission.

Hyderabad Ramzan Food Walk

During the Holy month of Ramadaan, each sunset beholds the Hyderabadis thronging towards the Old City lanes. Gastronomes, who dream of perfect kebabs and mutton haleem, clutter near Charminar area, the de facto centre of Hyderabadi cuisine in the city. We headed over to Charminar,not only to hog on the delicacies,as well as to witness the frenzy of Ramzan. Sweating profusely in summer heat, we walked through the narrow lanes and braved the jostling crowd to experience the Ramzan Food walk.

Nimrah Café and Bakery : Journey started with a warm cup of Irani tea. Chai and Osmania biscuits are inseparable companions to kick start any gastronomic journey. You can opt for a plate of assorted biscuits to have a taste of everything. I personally love the chand biscuits and osmania biscuits.

Location of Nimrah cafe and bakery

ntea — Most captured frame from Nimrah cafe

Milan Juice Centre : Opposite to Nimrah Cafe, tucked in between shops is Milan Juice centre which serves different juices but the showstopper is the Mulberry Rabri. The explosion of sweet flavours is unbeatable. The rabri malai is sweetened milk after its reduced for a long time. Apart from that, Mango Malai is also a must try.An

Another must try is the Mohabbat ka Sharbat which is watermelon blended with milk and cream.

Location of Milan Juice Centre

Pista House : Though challenged by some of the big names, Pista house has hands-down one of the best Haleem in Hyderabad. Slow cooked for over 10 hours, this dish has minced chicken or mutton and wheat, served with fried onion and lemon.

Location of Pista House

Matwale Doodh Ghar : After spicy Haleem from Pista House, a hop on to next-door neighbor Lassi ghar for Rose-flavored ice cold lassi is a must. Even the simple lassi tastes divine! The Lassi is one of the most sought after dessert, specially after devouring the spicy wholesome haleem.

Location of Matwale Doodh Ghar

Al Farooz Sonu kebabs : Al Farooz Sonu Kebab centre is must go place to have a taste of the charcoal grilled kebabs and mutton marag with Paratha. An array of mouth-watering kebabs greeted us – specially Pathar ka gosht and Seekh kebab, Malai mutton, Semiya Chicken, Mutton gravy and laccha paratha. Hands down best dish is of course the Mutton Marag, a mutton stew blended with coconut powder, cashew nut paste and boiled milk.

Sonu kebabs have seating arrangements too this year wherein you can enjoy the same delicacies on Top floor which is just opposite to the street food spread.

Location of Sonu Kebabs

seekhkebab — The aroma from barbeque is maddening!

Bowls of mouth watering Marag with parathas (clicked by Niloy Dey)

Few tips for better experience:

Most of the places are restricted for vehicles. Crowd increases at night, so please plan accordingly. Please park your car or bike at designated place only. One of the easy car parking spots we found was near Mirchowk Gulzar sweets. Or else, you can park car near Pista house or even near Sonu Kebabs. Please ensure you are not blocking the road.

Please carry water. Though you can buy water bottles or enjoy a glass of refreshing sugarcane juice, it is better to carry your own bottle of water and refill the filters placed outside of the hotels.

The threshold of Charminar is dotted with jewelry shops. Most of the items are priced at Rs 100 only. There are a lot of steal deals on bangles and earrings. No one will go back home empty-handed for sure! There are numerous shops with clothes on display. Please make sure to carry cash, though most places accept Digital payments.

Ever visited any of these while meadering through the Ramzan crowd near Charminar?

Head over to comment section to share your experience. You can also reach me on Facebook or Instagram to share your views.

Gone with the wind

This book is my first love and will forever be so. Scarlett o Hara has inspired me, shaped me into what I am today. I believe these quotes from the book will motivate you, even on your gloomy days!