Explore Kerala

If you travel in Kerala, you are in second heaven of India after Kashmir. Kerala is God’s own country where nature rules over all! Kerala is land of elephants and tigers. It’s also land of rich cultures and traditions. It’s favorite choice of travelers around the globe. Kerala is also known as Keralam, one of Indian state situated in south west. The most popular tourist attractions in the state are beaches, backwaters and hill stations.

Must visit if you are in Kerala… 

• Munnar-The Kashmir of the South 
• Thekkady-Showcase of the Wildlife of Kerala 
• Kumarakom-Haven of Serenity 
• Wayanad-Nature at her most beautiful self 
• Vagamon-Enchanted Meadows 
• Kollam-The land of Cashews 
• Anathapuri-The land of the Kings (Tiruvananthpuram) 
• Cochin-The Queen of Arabia (Gateway of South India) 
• Thrissur-The cultural capital of Kerala 
• Agastyakoodam-the abode of biodiversity 

Popular beaches

• Kovalam 
• Varkala 
• Kappad 
• Muzhappilangad 
• Bekal 

Popular hill stations at:

• Munnar 
• Wayanad 
• Wagamon 
• Peermade 
• Nelliampathi 
• Ponmudi

Kerala's ecotourism destinations include 12 wildlife sanctuaries and two national parks: Periyar Tiger Reserve, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, and Eravikulam National Park are the most popular among them. (Wikipedia)

Blank Paper Ticket

Hello friends,

Today, I am sharing Indian Railway’s one of the best facility in term of train reservation booking. Indian Railways has a scheme named BPT – Blank Paper Ticket, Lets know what that is???

BPT

Blank Paper Ticket is a type of railway journey ticket. Blank Paper Ticket is a ticket issued by India Railways to break your journey at a station and then you can travel to your destination station in any train' s reserved compartment. In other words blank paper ticket is when a person wants to travel any destination and the direct train is not available then break journey is the last option for this type of journey. when the person approach to the ticket counter and demand the blank paper ticket, the ticket is provided to him with some concession in fare.

E.g. If you likely to travel Hyderabad-Deccan from Ahmedabad and you are not getting reservation in direct train or if you want to lay over in Mumbai for some hours for work, most probably you will book your ticket via Mumbai and search reservation in two different trains i) Ahmedabad-Mumbai ii) Mumbai- Hyderabad-Deccan. In this case you have to book two tickets but it will cost you more than direct train! As per the rule you can request a BPT on reservation counter and your ticket will be booked as Ahmedabad-Hyderabad-Deccan via Mumbai in two different trains. No extra charge will be made and you will save extra ticketing cost. Just you have to give two train names through which you want to travel. See the guidelines to fill up the reservation form below:

________________________________________________________

Train Name: Gujarat Mail  |  Date: 23/12/2011  | Class: 2AC  |  Berth: 01  

From Ahmedabad Jn. To Hyderabad-Deccan
Boarding at: Ahmedabad Jn.  |  Reservation up to: Dadar

________________________________________________________________

Onward Journey

________________________________________________________________

Train Name: Hyderabad Exp  |  Date: 24/12/2011  | Class: 2AC  |  Berth: 01
Boarding at: Dadar.  |  Reservation up to: Hyderabad-Deccan

________________________________________________________________

You will have two tickets with two different PNR nos. Second ticket will cost you RS. 0 that is why it is called Blank Paper Ticket. This facilty is not available in Rajdhani Exp and Shatabdi Exp.

Surat Outing!

Travelling for Surat (South Gujarat) to attend an occasion in in-laws! I had been last in Surat earlier in March. I have not shared anything about Surat with you, Let me tell you few fact about city which I am likely to visit!

Surat:

According to Wikis, previously known as Suryapur, is a well-developed commercial city of the Indian state of Gujarat. It is also administrative capital of Surat district and one of the fastest growing cities of the world. The city proper is the third cleanest city in India. Surat is Gujarat's second largest city and India's 8th most populated city.

Known for:

The city is located 306 km south of state capital Gandhinagar, and is situated on the left bank of the Tapi River the center being around 22 kms from its mouth.A moat divides the older parts of the city, with its narrow streets and handsome houses, and the newer suburbs. The city is largely recognized for its textile and diamond businesses. It is also known as the diamond capital of the world and the textile capital/Manchester textile city of India, a distinction it took over from Ahmedabad. It is also known as the "Embroidery capital of India" with the highest number of embroidery machines than any other city. 

History:

Surat is mentioned in the Sanskrit epic, the Mahābhārata, when Lord Krishna stopped there en route from Mathura to Dwarka. According to other later Sanskrit records, the area was ruled by the Western Chālukyas in 610 CE, and continued to be ruled by Hindu kings until it was captured by one of the generals of Quṭbuddīn Aibak. The Parsis started to settle there in the 12th century, and added greatly to its prosperity. In the early centuries during the reign of a Maratha King, the port of Surat was used as the gateway to Mecca for pilgrims of the Hajj from India's interior regions. Both the Makkai Pul and the Mughal Sarai guest house for hajjis (pilgrims) are indicators of this historical function. 

Local traditions state that the city as we know it today was founded in the last years of the fifteenth century by a Brahman named Gopi, who called it Suryapūr (City of the Sun). 

Today's Surat:

Surat is now India's second cleanest city. Surat was ranked the No.1 city in India to earn, invest and live. Surat has the highest No. of flyovers in Gujarat. Surat has a very good shopping area. Surat is also called "Mall City" now the days. Surat has numbers of mall and super markets like Escone Mall, Big Bazaar, Vishal Mega Mart, Sahaj Super Stoer, Diraj Sons, City Mall, House Full, etc., Surat has three multiplexes Fame - Raj Empire, Cityplus Multiplex- Adlabs, Valentine and numbers of Cimace all around the citi. Surat is famous for tasty and delicious foods, especially surti khamam, locho, surti undhayu etc.

Will back with more updates... C Yu

Patna

Hello friends,

I am here once again with new sharing from my last travel! I had been to Patna to conduct ConnectIT workshop for NASSCOM Foundation. Patna is the capital city of the north Indian state of Bihar. Let me discuss few interesting things what I came across.

Map of Patna, Bihar

I planned my journey and booked my tickets a week prior and by grace of the God I’d got confirmed train tickets. I planned to travel via Ahmedabad-Delhi as this is best route to travel Bihar and having so many train connections although Ahmedabad station is having train direct to Patna but it takes too much time to reach there. If you travel by Delhi route, you get fast trains as well as you save your time too.

Experienced Getting Appropriate Trains!

Train @ H. Nizamuddin Station

I preferred to travel through (12957) Suvarna Jayanti Raj Exp. train from Ahmedabad to New Delhi which takes 12 hours to reach New Delhi and (12424) Dibrugadh Raj Exp. From New Delhi to Patna which also reaches Patna in 12 hours. I had thoughts in my mind about return journey as I didn’t get availability in Delhi-Ahmedabad train so I planned my journey Patna-Delhi-Baroda-Veraval.

I booked my ticket in (02393) Patna-AVNT (Delhi) Exp. which starts from Patna at 20:00 IST and reaches Anand Vihar (Delhi) next day 12:00 IST as scheduled time. From Delhi I booked my ticket in (12248) H. Nizamuddin-BDTS Yuva Exp. for Baroda which runs from H. Nizamuddin (Delhi) on Saturday at 15:40 IST. I had 3 hours in spare to travel H. Nizamuddin station from New Delhi as I was reaching New Delhi from Patna at 12:00 O’clock. My mind insist me to track Patna-AVNT (Delhi) Exp. Train’s last running records and when I searched I amazed as the train was running 7-10 hours late each day. I change my mind quickly to travel in different train from Patna and I got availability in (12393) S Kranti Sup Exp. which runs 18:00 IST from Patna and reaches New Delhi in 14 hours on time. I preferred that train to get my connection from Delhi to Baroda. Thank God as this plan executed as per plan. I advise those who travel Delhi to Patna or Patna to Delhi to make train choices after studying train running past status as this route generally gets late.

Station Codes: VRL (Veraval) ADI (Ahmedabad) NDLS (New Delhi) PNBE (Patna) NZM (H. Nizamuddin) BRC (Baroda / Vadodara)

In Patna:

Participants @ ConnectIT Workshop

It was nice time in Patna with all participants, had good curricular interaction all 3 days. This time Miss Sneha Sahasrabudhe accompanied me to execute the workshop, she is from NASSCOM Foundation. I was staying in Hotel Republic at exhibition road and had workshop at Admerit College near Loyola School, Kurji road. It is almost at 15-20 minutes distance though it takes almost an hour to travel in traffic. Hotel was ok in term of facilities, not at great level but good at level of area. Hotel has no restaurant but having facility to serve food in your room! I didn’t taste the food of Hotel Republic as we went outside to have dinner both the days. We tried Biryani near the Hotel Republic but it was in local style, too mild! We tried to find other restaurant at Exhibition road but unfortunately not get decent and best one! We taste the Dominos’, it is good to dine.

For travelling within the city you may find Direct Auto, Shuttle Auto and Cycle Rickshaws. Choose as per your timings. Well, will back with few more things soon! Stay Tuned!

Travelling Patna

Friends,

Once again travelling Bihar tomorrow, Delivering sessions to NGO professionals of Patna in NASSCOM Foundation's ConnectIT workshop.

I had missed previous workshops in Patna as engrossed with other commitments. This would be second IT workshop of mine in Bihar state. Last time I had been in Muzaffarpur with the same purpose.

I will get back to you with more sharing of Bihar and travelling soon...

Do come again! Good Night!!

Ankleshwar

I travelled Ankleshwar (Gujarat) last weekend for back to back two sessions with youth in LEHER. I preferred to travel by train and worked out to find the appropriate train, unfortunately I didn’t find any direct train from Veraval although there is a train – Saurashtra Mail but it doesn’t have stoppage at Ankleshwar station!

Finally, I decided to travel via Rajkot junction which is almost 200 kms from my house and road transport, local trains are available to travel. I booked my upward ticket in 12998 Hapa-Ten SUP Exp. This runs from Hapa (Gujarat) to Tirunelveli (Tamilnadu). The train was scheduled to depart at 22:23 from Rajkot and I planned to catch the train by travelling in Veraval-Rajkot Intercity train from Veraval Junction at 17:45. I reached Veraval and inquired does the train reach Rajkot before Hapa-Ten SF Exp? In reply, I come to know that the Veraval-Rajkot Intercity reaches at destination around at 22:15 and chances to miss the next train if train gets late or signal problem! It was yet 16:30 on clock and I had 6 hours in spare, I changed my mind and rushed to ST bus station to catch an express bus for Rajkot! Generally, it takes 4 hours to reach Rajkot from Veraval. Fortunately, Una-Rajkot express bus was lasted by an hour and I got seat in it. Initially Bus speed was too slow and I was wondering how I will catch the train! But by the grace of God from Junagadh bus got speed and I reached Rajkot at 21:30 though bus had taken longer time than usual. I had a good company of Jaspal Solanki an 11th Science student in my Rajkot bus travelling, had words with him and chatted for long time. I had dinner at Dhaba and waited for train on Station at platform no. 3.

Train was little late by 10 minutes but journey time was not affected with it! I got into the train and slept well. What a train speed it was! Less stoppages, Fast speed in short a very good travelling. This train is suggested by me if you are travelling Mumbai from Rajkot or travelling Tamilnadu.

I had good time with Ankleshwar youth, had wonderful sessions and interactions. I thank all supporters who assisted and cooperated me for this trip! I back home by same night train. In between I enjoyed India Pakistan T20 WC match in Hotel. I stayed at Hotel Sha-Inn near to railway station Ankleshwar, at GIDC end. The hotel is good and very economical, Food quality is good and I liked their hospitality!

Thank U

ID proof is mandatory in AC train travelling

The Indian Railways made it mandatory for travelers who book their tickets for AC coaches through the Passenger Reservation System-PRS (Railway Counter Booking) to carry their identity proofs from February 15th, 2012. The move, said railway officials, is aimed at preventing the unauthorized transfer of tickets, according to a report by The Times of India.

According to railways, “Passengers with tickets booked through the PRS, and internet (i-ticket) will have to carry any one of the nine prescribed identity proofs if they are travelling in AC three-tier, AC two-tier, First AC, AC Chair Car and Executive Classes. Those who fail to produce a photo ID proof will be treated as travelling without ticket.”

So far, only passengers with Tatkal and e-tickets were required to carry an original ID card for the duration of their travel. The new rule is not applied to passengers who book Sleeper Class and Second Class chair car tickets.

The nine prescribed ID proofs accepted while journey:

1. Voter Photo identity card issued by Election Commission of India. 
2. Passport. 
3. PAN Card issued by Income Tax Department. 
4. Driving Licence issued by RTO. 
5. Photo identity card having serial number issued by Central/State Government. 
6. Student Identity Card with photograph issued by recognized school/College for their students. 
7. Nationalized Bank Passbook with photograph
8. Credit Cards issued by Banks with laminated photograph.
9. Unique Identification Card "Aadhaar"

Important:

• Please note that if you are booking Tatkal ticket, you are supposed to submit any one ID proof photocopy from above list and same ID proof in original to be carried with you while train journey but if you have booked ticket form General quota, you can carry any one ID proof in original while train journey.

• If you are travelling in group on Tatkal ticket, the same ID proof (in original) is required while travelling which had given while booking. Same ID no. is printed on Tatkal ticket under 'Travel Authority' and also being produced in reservation chart.

• These rules are also to be followed in Raajdhani, Shatabdi & Jan Shatabdi trains. 

Happy Journey!!

Visited Botad

Hello friends

Yesterday, I returned home after completing my Botad (Bhavnagar, Gujarat) tour. On 22nd September, I rushed to Junagadh for catching the last bus for Botad which was schedule to depart at 15:45. I am thankful to Mr. Barkat who picked up me from Sangodra where I was taking a session with youth and dropped me at Junagadh bus station on time. There are limited buses from Junagadh to Botad and last bus is ordinary and takes 5 hours to reach there. This bus passes on route of Jetpur-Gondal-Aatkot-Jasdan-Vinchhiya-Paliyaad. 

I reached at 9 PM and Myself welcomed by members and rain!! It was heavy raining while I was travelling. I visited Botad first time, I stayed at H.H. Agakhan Hostel and had wonderful time over there. Let me discuss few interesting things about Botad.

Botad: -

Botad is one of the fastest growing city in India with a modest voter population of more than 3 lakh. However, the amenities that this city boasts of and its location (Ahmedabad-170 km / Bhavnagar-90 / Rajkot-120 / Surendranagar-90 - all district centers) can make many cities feel envy. Botad is surrounded by many small villages and lots of people from those villages are settled in Botad and lots of people are still coming for better opportunities and that's why population of Botad is doubling every few couple of years. One can say, the city is best for living for average income people. 

Botad is a gateway of Kathiyawad (toward Gadhada, Lathi and Amreli) and junction point of Gohilwad (towards Bhavnagar), Zalawad (Limbdi, Surendranagar) and Panchal (towards Paliyad, Vinchiya, Jasadan).

Botad is a Karma Bhumi of many great people like Javerchand Meghani (Gujarati Litterateur and Freedom Fighter whom Mahatma Gandhi spontaneously gave the title of. Raashtreeya Shaayar (National Poet)), Kavi Shri Damodardas Botadkar (Poet), Mohammad Makad (Litterateur and Teacher), and Bhanushankar Joshi (Freedom Fighter). Mahatma Gandhi visited Botad during one of his tour to Kathiyavad.

Transport, Road & Highways:

Botad is well connected to Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Surat, Vadodara, Bhavangar, Rajkot, Surendranagar etc. by Railway and Road. Even you will find direct train to Pune, Hyderabad, Kakinada and Kochuveli (situated on east coast of India).

The Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) runs regular buses to and from Bhavangar, Rajkot and other cities of Gujarat. Botad is very well connected with Gujarat State Highways. Raghuvir travels is providing city bus service within Botad.

Places of Public Interests:

Clock Tower Botad saw its first phase of rapid development during rule of Maharaja Krushna Kumar Singhaji and Takht Singhji (Bhavnagar State). Shree Damodar-Jagjivan (Shah) built the Clock Tower. Today, Tower Chalk is the central business district on the city. There is a library in the building on his name.

Town Gate In those days (1800 until almost time of Independence), every town/villages used to have a wall protecting town from invaders and looters. Gate of town (Gam Darawaja) used to be at what is known as Din Dayal Chalk right now.

Lake Lake that supplies water to most of the areas of the town even today was built by Maharaja Krishna Kumar Singhji (Bhavnagar State). This is one of the beautiful place to visit and is a place for the Satam Mela (Get together place for celebration of one of the festival during holy month of Shravan).

Tajiyo This building was constructed with aim of building Clock Tower by a civil engineer/entrepreneur named Tulsi Mistri. He was not allowed to put a clock by the prince of the Bhavnagar state. This building later become famous as Tajiyo.

Haran Kui Haran Kui (Spring or Well for Deers) was a fresh water spring on northern part of the town where thousands of deers and other semi-wildlife used to thrive. Story goes that a Nawab had camped near Haran Kui and had killed many deers. This incidence and other factors like growing human population has almost wiped out wild life in nearby areas of the town.

Garden garden is situated near road for paliyad and famous for the speally children who are enjoying a lot. (Source: Wikis)

Indeed, it was pleasure to meet new people and dealt with them throughout the day. See you...

Sessions in Saurashtra

Hallo friends,

I have been travelling in Saurashtra for youth seminars since last two weekends. I interacted with 225+ youth in my last 4 sessions in Junagadh, Dhari (Amreli) & GIR. My Anjar-Kutch tour had postponed once again and had new destinations for session.

Second last weekend I had been in Junagadh & Dhari. I had been in Dhari after almost 5 years. It is near about 75 Kms away from Junagadh along to Bilkha & Visavadar. Mr. Pyarali Vadsariya accompanied me in our night on road bike journey. We started at 10 PM to Dhari for next morning session. Since it was night journey road was empty and it took 2+ hours to reach as we were driving in unknown area. We had been advised to stay in Hotel Krishna near Petrol Pump at Dhari, it was below expectation, not too bad as it was best option in Dhari. Next day after session I had to reach Junagadh again for next session! I had only 2 hours between completion at Dhari and Scheduled time at Junagadh. I seemed impossible to reach on time but Mr. Minaz and his driving abilities made it possible we started at 1.15 PM and reached 2.30 PM!! Within 1.15 Hours from Dhari to Junagadh, What a bike journey it was!!

It was great time to be in Dhari and Junagadh earlier and in Bhalchhel and Chitrawad last weekend, had wonderful time with sessions and discussion though it is always difficult to handle youth crowd that’s reason why I had to be more attentive and aggressive. I am also thankful to Mr. Barkat who dropped me at my home from Junagadh and obviously to introduce Darbari restaurant of Junagadh. It is small hotel though good. Its Dhaba type restaurant, I had food with Mr. Samir and Mr. Amir over there. Got so many Facebook friend request from participants, thank you for liking and respect. 

Come to know a new Hotel with AC Conference Hall – Hotel Sapphire opposite of Junagadh ST Bus station. Wonderful! It is great option for stay and for organizing seminars.

This weekend likely have more sessions in GIR itself and also Traveling Botad for my sessions scheduled on 23^rd of this month. Will get back with more sharing.

TC

Weekend LEHER

Hi!

So, according to the post title you must be understood that I am going to have sessions with youth at every weekend. Yes, you are right. I have planned few trips for LEHER and few trip plans are under discussion. From tomorrow I am travelling to Junagadh and Dhari (Amreli) for 3 sessions, later I am likely to travel Kutch as well for Anjar- trip which was postponed in July. Cities such as Rajkot, Gondal, Botad are also in list to be travelled for same reason in upcoming weekends.

Having a session tomorrow in Junagdh after long time of period, travelling Dhari tomorrow evening after 4 years. last travelled in 2008 for attending a meeting. I had many sessions in Junagadh & Dhari earlier but this time audience would be different, their need would be different. looking forward for all 3 sessions.

See you with updates soon.

Returning from Hyderabad

Hi!

I am writing this post while resting in Mumbai Central railway station waiting room. I have just arrived from Secunderabad after completing the ConnectIT workshop of NASSCOM Foundation. I am waiting for next train which is scheduled to depart at 08:20 for Rajkot.

I had been in Hyderabad-Secunderabad last 5 days and enjoyed the trip over there. Sessions and interaction with participants was good and utilized time to meet relatives over there after completing the workshop.

This time I was with new colleague Mr. Prashant Pandit the senior manager for NASSCOM Foundation, find him nice and had well time and company of him. We were staying at Hotel Kassani GR at Madhapur, Hi Tech city. Indeed, it was great and comfortable stay. Had taste of Kassani’s restaurant and able to suggest dishes as best such as Schezwan Fish and Darbari Chicken. Hotel Kassani is providing complementary hi speed internet connections in rooms. I must say to have experience of the hotel when you will be next time in Hyderabad. I hadn’t visited any public places during this visit as was not having enough time to go out and surf the city although explored city on net! 

Back To Back Journeys

On Going Journey: Hyderabad (Andhra Pradesh)
Last: Jetpur (Gujarat)
Ago: Rajkot (Gujarat)

Hallo friends,

After conducting 3 sessions with youth at Rajkot & Jetpur last weekend, I have reached at Madhapur, Hyderabad to conduct 3 days CIT (ConnectIT) advanced computing training workshop for NGO professionals in Hyderabad. It's a NASSCOM Foundation event. First Time in Hyderabad for Sessions.

Today, I just arrived at Hyderabad by Rajkot-Secunderabad Express. It was almost 29 hours journey. It was comfortable journey though train got very slow after entering in Hyderabad. Train was not getting signals easily on account of other local trains and crossings. I got off at Begumpet station as I was supposed to reach at Madhapur which is almost 11 KMs away from Begumpet railway station. Just working on tomorrow's sessions, I will back with new sharing after completing the tour.

TC 

Jamnagar - A Historical City

Friends, Last weekend I visited Jamnagar and stayed there for two days. Trip was good; Sessions were well and had positive feedbacks from group. Somehow I felt, we still need to work on time! I believe we yet not understood the value of the time. Anyways, let me share my experience with you!

I had reached Jamnagar on last Friday night. Altaf Vasaya and Anwar Lakhani accompanied me. After reaching we booked a room in Hotel Kama after getting good reviews from a co-traveller. Though it was economy hotel, we can’t expect any other facilities than the hotel had! We tried to change hotel but didn’t find any decent near bus station area although there are guest house like Minal and Shivshakti, facilities were almost same. There are good restaurants in Jamnagar if you search little far from bus station area. Both the day we went to Restaurant Maruti, taste seemed good. It is a decent restaurant for family.

Jamnagar is easy to travel from Junagadh (3 hours) Rajkot (2 hours) on road if you are in Saurashtra. There are trains from Rajkot Jn as well. There are so many places to visit; unfortunately we couldn’t visit due to busy schedule.

Railway Station in past

Interesting Facts:

• Jamnagar is a coastal town of Gujarat – India. 
• It was founded by Jam Raval in 1540 A.D. as the capital of the princely state of Navanagar. 
• It was so named after the ruler who called themselves Jamshree. 
• There are so many buildings situated in the old part of the town such as the Darbar Gadh, Mandvi Tower and Jam Bungalow. 
• Darbar Gadh was a gathering place where the Maharaja of Nawanagar used to hold public audience. 
• Jamnagar is the home town of best cricketers such as His Royal Highness Jam Ranjitsinhji, Duleepsinhji, Prince Amish and his nephew Prince Vinu Mankad, Salim Durrani, Indrajitsinhji, Ajay Jadeja and emerging cricketer Ravindra Jadeja. 
• Jamnagar is also famous for its 'Brass Products', 'Bandhani' and handicrafts. 
• According to Pauranik literature, Lord Krishna established his kingdom at Dwarka town in Jamnagar district, after migrating from Mathura. 
• Jamnagar is today known as 'Oil City' because the world's biggest oil refinery belonging to Reliance Industries and a smaller one belonging to Essar Oil are located in Jamnagar. 
• Jamnagar is well known for its four marble Jain temples: Vardhman Shah's Temple, Raisi Shah's Temple, Sheth's Temple, and Vasupujya Swami's Temple. All were built between 1574 and 1622.
• There are 30 Jain Temples in the town.

Jamnagar

Places of interest:

• Darbargadh Palace
• Lakhota Fort
• Willingdon Crescent
• Pratap Vilas Palace
• Kotha Bastion
• Dhanvantri Mandir (Ayurvedic University – only one in India)
• Solarium
• Bhujio Kotho
• Bohra Hajira

Visit when you will be in Jamnagar!

LOVE मैरिज या ARRANGED मैरिज

SUHANA SAFAR – Life is a journey! We all are in a journey of the life although we are on different ways and different tracks to reach the destination which is ultimately same for all human beings! We get life and visa from God to travel various aspects and events of life and we start to enjoy our trip with the people whom we meet during this journey. We meet so many people whether they are our blood relatives or just a Pedestrian who is passing by from us! There are so many people who touch our hearts and become very special companion of the life journey! Today, on the platform of Suhana Safar, I am sharing one major and blessed life event of life – Marriage!

You might hear the most spoken idiom “Marriages are made in heaven!” This is very common sentence which people use when they talk about any individual’s marriage. Though Marriages are made in heaven, we are supposed to discover the partner on earth! In some cases the individual finds the soul mate according to the dream and in some cases the family or match-maker helps to find out appropriate partner. Generally when individuals  find the partners themselves and decide to be married with each other called "Love Marriage" and when Family choose the partner for any individual called "Arrange Marriage!"

Love Marriage v/s Arranged Marriage

Very nice topic to be discussed here i.e. LOVE मैरिज या ARRANGED मैरिज? Which one is best and long lasting? The question is really tough to answer, let’s try to find the answer in this discussion.

Love Marriage: People say love is blind as love doesn’t see the age, caste, education, families and status of the opposite person so that when an individual see a person who is same as according to the dream, love feeling take place in the hearts. Love starts with attraction then liking, proposing, expressing, meetings and finally two individuals come with the decision to spend life together as husband and wife as they have understood themselves and know the expectations of each other. It is not the end of story; actually the story starts now as they require the permission to marry each other from their parents or guardians! Sometimes it becomes easy if both are from same caste and levels and if differs, the test begins! Test of love, test of patience and test of relation! If they pass these all circumstances, they would have best married life as now they know the value of love and relation. It is not guaranteed that the problems will not be raised in love marriage in fact love marriage requires so many arrangements! Love requires arrangements and adjustments in term of acceptance of; families, background, customary, economic situations, role and responsibilities, way of living and the most important the thinking and status of partner. The fact is, she partner has to arrange and adjust the most of arrangements after marriage. In short, Love requires positive arrangement for happy life ahead, but it takes time.

Arranged Marriage: Arrange means to set a marriage of two unknown persons who even they don’t know each other properly! Generally arranged marriage process is start with setting up the meetings of two families and especially for two individuals who are going to be bounded with relation of husband and wife! These meetings are platform to discuss their lives, needs and likes-dislikes etc. If both the person finds each other as perfect match and like outer appearance, get engaged and start to know more closely. Sometimes, the period between engagement and marriage is very long so that both the persons may have more time to know more and understand each other but in many cases this period is too short and in no time they got married after engagement! In this type of marriage they have to love this arrangement, it is true that the love neither comes with force nor you insist your partner to love you! It’s come with understanding and care. If any couple married on arranged basis, they require love! But, it takes time!

Let me conclude the topic with my personal view; “If you can arrange your love and adjust all situations after marriage, go with “Love Marriage” or if you are able to find love and love the arrangement of marriage, go with “Arrange Marriage.”  The thing is in arrange marriage you have to wait for love and in love marriage you have to wait for arrangement! True! Both formats require passion of love, care and commitment.

Sony Entertainment Television is going to telecast new series LOVE मैरिज या ARRANGED मैरिज from August 6th at 8:30 PM. We shall know more about this topic on Sony; Wait more for few days...

For More Discussion: www.facebook.com/LoveYaArrange

Sharing Talaja Trip

Writing this post after two days of my Talaja trip! I am just become able to write my views for last trip. As I have shared in my earlier post, I was supposed to take two sessions with youth. This was new destination for me and I travelled the city first time though the travelling routes were in my mind. There are major three ways to travel Talaja form GIR, all routes reach almost at same time.

1. Via Talala, Veraval, Kodinar, Una, Timbi, Rajula, Mahuva & Talaja (N.H. 8E)
2. Via Talala, Jamvala, Una, Timbi, Rajula, Mahuva & Talaja (N.H. 8E from Una)
3. Via Sasan, Mendarda, Junagadh, Amreli, Bhavnagar & Talaja

I preferred to travel via first option and started my journey on 27^th Morning. Got the Bus from Veraval at   11 in morning and reached Talaja by 5:30 in evening.The route was familiar up to Timbi as I have traveled thrice in my history but after Talaja the whole way was new for me. I observed new cities like Rajula, Mahuva and Talaja during the trip. You will witness the damaged roads after Una, Indeed this is the area of work after all it is National Highway no. 8E!

Gurjarnagri Bus

If you are travelling Talaja or Bhavnagar from Veraval, choose bus wisely for comfortable travelling. There are not any private tourist buses on road as the service is not presently available. You have only one option left and this is State Transport Bus! There are few categories in Gujarat State Road Transport Cooperation, Local, Express, Deluxe, Gurjarnagri, Luxury and Sleeper. This route don’t have luxury and sleeper class bus services so you had better to select Gurjarnagri for comfortable travelling as it’s have better seat to sit properly and rest your back. The bus takes almost 6 hours to reach the destination. Porbandar-Bhavnagar, Veraval-Bhavnagar & Mangrol Bhavnagar are the few buses which pass along to Talaja. There are few highway hotels in talaja if you are planning overnight journey. Good restaurants and dhaba are available on Bhavnagar Highway. Talaja is beautiful town surrounded by hills. There is a Temple on hill which makes the hill very attractive. You can see it while travelling on road.

I stayed 2 nights and a day in Talaja. Really it was pleasant stay, met my past mentees and new people as well. I also met ITREB colleague and friend Altaf Vasaya after long time. I must say, I liked the group, their attitude toward learning; they were very open to learn new things so that I enjoyed interacting with them. Alhamdulillah! Sessions went well according to the feedback what participants personally gave to me. Thank god for the success once again. I thank those people who were helped me throughout the stay. I especially thank Muiz Vasaya for care! May god bless you all.

Talaja, Bhavnagar

This weekend I am travelling to Talaja, Gujarat. The reason why I am travelling is to deliver the sessions. This time talking on two subjects; Islamic law & Being extraordinary creation! The target group is youth. Insha’Allah it will be fruitful time to be there.

Talaja is situated on national highway no. 8 in between Bhavnagar – 50 km and Mahuva – 40 km. It is a Taluka place falls in Bhavnagar. Also known as the birthplace of the poet Narsinh Mehta, Talaja is also house of important sites for Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism. There are around 30 ancient Buddhist caves cut into rocks, with fine carving of Boddhisatva. Talaja is having a site placing 3 religion’s important monuments; Jain temple on a hill alongside the town, 13 Buddhist caves on same hill and Hindu temple of Khodiyar Mata is on the same hill as well!

Talaja is reachable place from anywhere as road, rail and air transportation are easily available. I am travelling first time this area. I will share more about Talaja after my trip. Stay Tuned.

Anjar Tour Called Off

Dear friends,

In my last post I have shared about my upcoming Anjar, Kutch tour this weekend. Unfortunately, this your and seminar called off due to few circumstances over there. Regret not to travel Kutch. I will update as soon as new date will be finalized.

The City of Temples - Anjar, Kutch

Freinds, this weekend likely to travel Kutch once again after almost a year. This time destination is different. Going to deliver sessions to youth of Anjar, Kutch. Last time when I visited Kutch, I just get off from bus at Anjar bus station to pick up another bus for Mundra. This time will stay in Anjar only. As always I am studying the city to be visited by me and sharing it's basic information with you all, it will be useful if you plan your travel to Anjar in future!

Anjar, Kutch - History & Geography:

Map

Anjar is a city of Kutch,  It was announced capital of kutch four times. First in Vikram samvat 721 by Chauhan Ajepal, then in 862, then in Vikram Samvat 1062 by Kathis and there after that in Vikram Samvat 1602 by the Maharao shri Khengarji Jadeja. It has history for more than 1400 years. It is the oldest city of Kutch. Anjar is named after by Kshatriya - Chauhan King Ajepal. The city was originally known as 'Ajay Vas' after him but over the years name changed to Anjar. Chauhan Ajepal brother of King of Ajmer, Rajasthan came and settled here to protect the country and defend against the invasion of Khalifa across the sea. He established the first coastal security center in Kutch.

Anjar is situated about 300 km from Ahmedabad its about 40 Kms to the south of main city of Kucth-Bhuj and almost 10 Kms from the north east shore of the Gulf-Kutch. It is known for the Shrine of Jesal and Toral. Jesal Jadeja was a great robber, lady saint Sati Toral had shown the path of spiritualism to him . Jesal and Toral took live samadhi in Anjar. Now days thousands of pilgrims perform pilgrimage in Anjar every year.

Anjar is city of Temples, Shree Swaminarayana Temple is attracton near Sawaser naka. Shree Swaminaryan came to Anjar in approx Samvat 1863 and stayed here for many years, he used to teach spiritual and the real lessons of life to many backward class people over there. Second one is Bhid Bhanjan Mahadev Temple near Sorathia naka and third one is Bhareswar Mahadev Temple which is 1200 years old temple at Devaliya naka. fourth one is Shree Naya Anjar Jain Temple. (Wikis)

Kucth is famous for its culture and history, I am willing to visit mentioned spots. Let's see how much is it possible with scheduled tasks and sessions. Will back with new stories.

Chanduvav, Veraval-Gujarat

Yesterday, I had been in Chanduvav, a place near Veraval – Gujarat. I visited Shree Narandas Jethalal Sonecha Management & Technical Institute. Today, I am writing this post for students especially from Saurashtra area. There is a blind belief that Saurashtra is backward place in Gujarat as there is not any high class college for higher education after completing high school or pursuing graduate degree! This thought had been derived after witnessing so many institutes who have big names but not worthful in education infrastructure and in academic aspects! Here I have an answer for those students who leave Saurashtra for master education in technical and management field. There are so many good institutes in city like Rajkot but today I am talking about the institute which is not in any big city though it has modern facilities and infrastructure which are required in this education era.

N. J. Sonecha is opened last year and offering MCA & MBA degrees affiliated with Gujarat Technical University, we know as GTU! I have visited the campus and after vising it, I must say, indeed it is good institute having fantastic lab like which I have seen in Bangalore and other parts of Karnataka and Tamilnadu when I travelled there for my IT sessions over there. This college is having Multimedia classrooms, well settled library, an open cafeteria and above all adopted projector enabled teaching method and campus’ latest lab networking which is hardly to find in this area. The institute is situated in natural environment on Veraval – Junagadh Highway. I met and discussed so many academic things with Mr. Gaurav and according to him campus is having best and regular faculties who are concern with student progress in practical manner and yes N.J. Sonecha students are also speaking the same. The thing only is institute is 8 km away from Veraval city and there is not State Transport bus stop at Chanduvav so students have to travel by shuttle rickshaws, but I have been informed that the process of seeking a stop is under conversation. So, it is proud to say that now we are having best educational platforms to convert our dreams into reality. I have interacted with Mr. Pradip Mehta before visiting the institute but unfortunately couldn't meet him this time. I thank him for his warm invitation to visit and thanks Mr. Gaurav for having a trip around campus with us. 

I just appreciate the institute and wish best of luck for its future! Keep it up.

Weekend with Karimabad Youth

Hallo friends,

Journey resumes after completing Leher at Karimabad Ahmedabad. Yeah, Had been in Karimabad for Leher sessions, Initially it was plan to deliver two sessions but I had been asked to deliver one more session on Sunday noon! It was really nice time in all three sessions, group was excited and open to learn. I hope the group have also enjoyed the sessions and improved their understanding!

I met few new people who were working to bring the program towards success, Just amazing! Their dedication, commitment was up to mark! I reached Ahmedabad on 16th early morning and stayed at Hotel Comfort at Relief road, Its good option if you are searching any economical stay as well as it's crow fly from railway station.

I am Navsari and staying here for two days and leaving tomorrow night for Sangodra Gir. Will back with new updates about my next trip!

TDP Somnath

Yesterday, I came from Somnath after completing TDP successfully with so many precious memories. Education, Learning, Knowledge, Fun, Entertainment, Party, Campus, Emotion and Drama are few beautiful aspects of the camp. Although, it was Teacher Development Program, Not less than college life experience if I describe it as a participant point of view!

In Session-Somnath

It was ten days training development program and I was assigned for Adolescent Psychology and Developmental sessions as well as for mentoring the new becoming teachers. I had tried to incorporate latest IT techniques in my all sessions and Shukhar Mawla it worked well. I am thankful to all participants for their beautiful feedback what they have given me. I have read all feedback forms and affected by your affectionate words written on the forms. I am not any big personality, just utilizing my capacities which are gifted by God. Whenever I walk for any session, my first priority is to give satisfaction to the participants. I just practiced the same in TDP. I must say, I am lucky to have a chance to interact with you by the medium of TDP. Thank you ITREB.

(Left to Right) Mohit, Sumit, Rahim, Me, Shabnam
Afsana (Seated) Shirin & Charmi

If I say about my group, Mohit, Sumit, Rahim, Shabnam, Afsana, Shirin and Charmi; you all have good nature and appropriate attitude towards learning. You all were open to learn and ready to accept the feedback, not only accept but you have applied the feedback when you had next platform to perform. Just keep it up these qualities, Insha’Allah you will be succeeded. I also like to thank you all group members for respect given to me. I know all your eyes were wet while sharing experience within the group on last day, even mine while I was listening you and reading your thoughts what you have written on my card while playing departure game.

In Bus, Going for MLP

We had two trips one at Maliya Hatina and another one is at Chitrawad-Gir, Though it was education trips, all enjoyed like a picnic! Almost everybody was engrossed in their lesson reading in upward journey and while returning all were in masti mood. Antakshari, Comments, Masti & Celebration had taken place until we reached at camp venue. This camp was the time to meet my colleagues once again after almost a year! This time, I met and worked with few new personalities. Indeed, it was a very nice experience. This experience will remain in my memories forever.

Upcoming Somnath Trip

Initially I was supposed to travel Patna-Bihar this weekend as ConnectIT Workshop has been scheduled in Patna at the end of this month. I am not travelling Bihar this time as I’ve given commitment earlier to attend Teachers development program for Agakhan Institution which is scheduled in Somnath – Gujarat. This is consecutive second time I am not able to conduct Patna workshop but I wish all the best to all participants for best experience in IT seminar.

Attending the Teachers development program where I am supposed to take sessions, these are not IT sessions; the sessions are related to educational content overview. I am also mentoring the candidates towards excellence. I will be in Somnath for almost 10 days from 24th May although this is not my first time visit of Somanth. Somnath is just about 35 KMs away from my home and I usually visit Somnath numbers of time in a year as it is a tourist place.

Somnath History:

Somnath Temple & Sea Shore

The Somnath Temple is located in the Prabhas Kshetra near Veraval in Saurashtra, on the western coast of Gujarat, India, is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of the God Shiva. Somnath means "The Protector of the Moon God". The Somnath Temple is known as "the Shrine Eternal"; having been destroyed six times and rebuilt six times Somnath is a pilgrimage town. According to the legend, Soma or the Moon God built the temple in gold, Ravana in silver, and Shri Krishna in wood. Soma was cursed by his father-in-law Daksha to wane because Soma loved only one of his wives, all of whom happened to be Daksha's daughters. His other wives complained about this negligent behavior of Soma to their father Daksha, and thus the curse. He then built a Shivlinga at the Prabhas tirth (a Hindu pilgrimage) and prayed to Lord Shiva who removed the curse partially because asked upon by Soma's one wife (the one that he loved more than others). Thus, causing the periodic waning of moon. Pleased by the prayers Soma (Moon god), Lord Shiva decided to rest in that Lingam till eternity, and thus the Jyotirlingam. (Wikis)

People around world visit Somnath for Darshan. Somnath is also famous for its Sea beach as it is laid at the bank of Arabian Sea. You might have seen Somnath in ‘Khshboo Gujarat Ki’ ad film by Mr. Amitabh Bachchan! There are several ways to reach Somnath; State Highway 26 connects GIR Jungle and Somnath. You can travel along Sasan-Gir if you are in GIR Jungle. Generally people use this route after visit Asiatic lion’s habitat. The other way is Veraval-Kodinar highway if you are travelling from Junagadh or Veraval city along to Prabhas Patan or else if you are coming from opposite direction Bhavnagar, Una or Kodinar! There is several By-Passes way need to keep in mind! If you are travelling from Rajkot along to Junagadh and keshod or else from GIR, take left when you reach Veraval by-pass for Somnath and drive straight until you reach Kodinar By-Pass now you are almost 2 KMs away from Somnath.

You can find various hotels and resorts around Somnath area. Select according to your need and Budget. I am staying at Hotel Safari Resort near Kodinar By-Pass.

How to reach Somnath:

You can travel by train up to Veraval and then by road 30 minutes driving. Buses, Cabs, Auto Rickshaws are easily available. Few trains like intercity express and Jabalpur-Somnath express are running up to Somnath station.

Visit other tourist favorite spots if you are visiting Somanth: Diu (U.T) 2 hours driving from Somnath – Sasan Gir 1 and half hour driving. There are many bounded Jungle ranges across GIR, Jamvala forest, Devaliya lion sanctuary etc. You may have thrilling experience if you stay overnight in these jungles!

Not a long travelling, long trip indeed!

Visit of Diu Island

Two days back I travelled Diu island with family, this journey was planned overnight! We left GIR morning at 8 o’clock and travelled for 2 hours to reach Diu. There are two ways to reach Diu from GIR, first is along to Talala, Una – The Jungle route which takes almost 3 hours and the other one is via Talala, Pranchi, Kesariya – the short way which takes 2 hours. We tried both ways in our two way journey. Let me share important fact of Diu with you.

Diu History:

Diu Fort

Before the Portuguese built the fort at Diu in 1535, the ancient history of the place was linked to several Kings and Dynasties; the earliest quoted is of the Pauranic period, followed by the Mauryans, the Kshatrapas, the Guptas, the Maitrakas, the Chavda dynasty of Gujarat and Saurashtra, the Chalukyas (under the Chalukya as local Chieftains) and the last was that of the Portuguese colonial rule till Diu was taken, along with Goa and Daman, by the Government of India on 19 December 1961. For over 450 years, the coastal enclaves of Daman and Diu on the Arabian Sea coast were part of Portuguese India, along with Goa and Dadra and Nagar Haveli. Goa, Daman, and Diu was incorporated into the Republic of India on 19 December 1961, by military conquest; Portugal did not recognize the Indian annexation of these territories until 1974. Goa, Daman, and Diu were administered as part of a single union territory until 1987, when Goa was granted statehood, leaving Daman and Diu as a separate union territory; each enclave constitutes one of the union territory's two districts.

English, Hindi, Gujarati, Marathi are the official and main languages. The use of Portuguese goes on declining because it is no longer official nor taught at school, though a number of elderly people can still understand it, some even preferring it for discourse at home. (Wikis)

Beach @ Diu

Tourist Spots:

• Nagoa Beach
• Jalandhar Beach
• Sun Set Point
• Naida Caves
• Fort: Fortim-do-mar (Pani Kotha)
• Gangeshwar Temple
• Sea Shell Museum
• Saint Paul Church
• Saint Francis Church
• Saint Thomas Church
• INS Khukri Memorial

There are various water parks to enjoy water rides. You may have sea rides at Nagoa beach with amazing experience. You can get good hotels in the middle of city for comfortable stay. You may required at least a full day to visit these all spots. 

How to reach Diu:

You can travel by train up to Veraval or Somnath and then by road 2 hours driving. Buses, Cabs are easily available.

Specialty:


Hoka (Hyphoena indica) is the only Indian tree which has African genus. Portuguese brought them from Africa. Surprisingly Diu has a great number of these trees. Probably because it is believed that the western part of Gujarat The fruit of Hoka tree is tasty and edible.

Refer the website: 

http://www.diutourism.co.in/

Indeed, Best place to visit… Enjoyed with family.

From Muzaffarpur - Bihar

I am just returning Gujarat after completing my first ever Bihar tour. Although, I was supposed to be in Bihar earlier in March of the current year! Due to few travel planning shortfalls, I was not able to come Bihar and conduct Patna IT workshop. This time it was turn of ‘Litchi City’ named Muzaffarpur.

Muzaffarpur: Muzaffarpur is one of the developing city of Bihar; it is at the distance of approximate 70 KMs from capital city Patna. You can drive on Patna-Muzaffarpur national highway which is under construction now days so it takes minimum 2 hours to reach at the destination. Second option is travel by train, though there is not any direct train from both cities for one another. You have to go via Hajipur station. Hajipur is having good train frequency for Muzaffarpur.

Muzaffarpur is known for its Litchi fruit production and exports litchi around the globe. May ending and June starting is the season to bring litchi with you at home. The city is also known for Bangles production. Islampur market is the area which is known for bangles trading. Textile (cloth trading) is also one of the top business of Muzaffarpur. Sutapatti market is wholesale area for cloth trading. Most of Textile materials are being imported from Surat-Gujarat. Apart these main economic activities, you can find small shops around city, but you rarely find big shopping malls and markets inside Muzaffarpur.

Travel within the city is the big challenge for you as Autos are not running in the streets of city. It runs at main roads only. You may have shuttle passenger tempo or rickshaw (two seater-tricycles) to go from place to another in the city but, make sure to leave early to catch your appointment! You may have various hotels to stay in; I was staying in Bihar Tourism’s Hotel Lichchhavi Vihar near the city bus station. It was quite comfortable for staying. Let me share with you about ‘Lichchhavi’! Lichchhavi is the name of ancient Kingdom. There was an empire named ‘Lichchhavi’ many years ago. You can find train named Lichchhavi Express as well.

Muzaffarpur is having its great history! You might be remembering the event of imprisoned and hanging out the Indian freedom fighter Late Khudiram Bose! Yes, that event was happened in Muzaffarpur. I have studied in my school days history class about Khudiram Bose and his colleague Prafful Chaki. Khudiram Bose attacked British Judge and ran away from city along railway line, He caught from nearby area and imprisoned and given hanging out punishment! People remember him as Shahid Khudiram Bose and having a stadium on the name of this freedom fighter.

Secondly, Muzaffarpur is having mythological history. It was under ‘Mithilanchal’ in ancient time. Sitaji’s father Janak Raja was belonging to Mithila. There is Sitamadhi district (The place where Sitaji had born) and Janakpur (Janakraja’s place – now in Nepal) The Epic - Ramayana happened in this area. Sitamadhi is very near from Muzaffarpur.

Regarding my ICT workshop, it was very good thanking God for another success. With completion of Muzaffarpur seminar, I completed my 400 sessions. I met new people once again and very happy to see satisfaction on participant’s face after completing the workshop.

I had luck to have the Bihar popular dish named 'Litti Choka.' You also try when you go Bihar next time. I thank all who have appreciated my sessions. Just completing this post and waiting for the chart preparation of the train through I am travelling insha'Allah. Praying for confirmation of my Tatkal Ticket... Ameen

Thank you, All 

TechNews - SkyDrive

Friends, The latest ICT news I want to share with you apart my travel sharing!

Few days back Microsoft Windows Live! has changed its online free storage services to compete the other portals like DropBox, iCloud & Google. Earlier Windows  Live was providing free storage worth 25 GB. Now, It has reduced free space upto 7 GB, but if you are existing user of Windows Live and using its services, you can get back 25 GB free Space! You just have to claim your storage back. I am sharing the process to get back your free 25 GB space. 

1. Log in with your Live! or Hotmail ID on https://login.live.com/
2. Go to SkyDrive
3. Click on Manage Storage
4. Click on Free Upgrade!

If you require more than 25 GB storage, you can purchase it now as many packages are available. One good news is, Now Windows Live! Desktop application, Phone app, iPhone app, iPad app and MAC app is also available for download to easily upload your files or folders direct from your device! Isn't great deal?

Thanks, Good Night!

Bihar ConnectIT

Good Evening Friends,

ConnectIT ICT Workshops have been scheduled in Bihar next month. I will conduct the workshop in Muzaffarpur & Gaya. After getting confirmation of workshops I had planned my journey whole day. Its hard to get tickets in railways as summer vacation is going on, Its difficult to get reserved yourself in train especially which directly belongs to Gujarat. You know what? Now, Gujarat is the first choice for spending holidays & vacations! Travelers and visitors are increasing after 'Khushboo Gujarat Ki' ad film by Mr. Big B. Though this scenario is there, I am planning a very long travelling this time. Indeed, Bihar.

Bihar lies mid way between West Bengal in the East and the Uttar Pradesh in the West, It is bounded by Nepal to the North and by Jharkhand to the South. I am traveling from West to East almost. Many train routes reach Bihar, I have identified best routes to travel Patna, Muzaffarpur & Gaya (Bihar). Insha'Allah will share this details soon.

After searching so many traveling portals, have identified few routes and executing the same. Praying, It will work!

Will back with more... Thanks