Smart Wall Clock Idea
Padmanabhaswamy Temple Pond Views
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| Padmanabhaswamy Temple ( Evening View) |
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| Dry bed of Temple Pond |
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| Padmateertham |
Took this picture of the temple on a late evening. It was the second time in the recent years that they have pumped out the water from the temple pond. As any person, I got curious on seeing the sand bed of the pond.
When the tank was water, I used to think of the depth, imagine about the mysteries, and what all other stories this water had to tell .
Probably, there are many stories and treasures below these sand. Or there are many things which we are not aware of. Well, emptying the water made it look bare – without that aura of secrecy.
We all have an inherent liking towards things that are dark and mysterious.
Indian Law Against Revenge Porn – Long Overdue
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| Revenge Porn – Image based Abuse Image Source: http://www.abc.net.au |
In the era of smart phones, 4G connection, Whatsapp and cheap data plans we have a reached a pinnacle of information sharing. However, most of it shared is junk Whatsapp msgs, which includes good morning messages, misinformation, false news, and byte sized private nude videos.
Prophecy of Boo
Long back a friend remarked about Internet for the masses as a technology which is has come too early that people won’t be able to handle it right. I knew his critical nature and I counter argued that it will bring out the voice of people and we no longer has be subjugated by the opinion of powerful or media.
But, now I feel that he was right in many ways.
Freedom of Sharing Information – At What Price
Well, power in the hands of many also comes with a price. And one of the nasty sides of this technology is the misuse of privacy. The tons of amateur explicit private videos hosted on public porn sites like Xvideos or Xhamster or shared on Whatsapp groups is beyond anyone’s grasp. It also makes me think, of downside of sharing such private videos.
Most of the pics or videos on public sites are private video mostly taken by men who had earned their trust. In most cases it would be boyfriends, or people who are having consensual sex. In few cases it would be their husbands who records their act for the sake of seeing it on a later date.
In most cases only the girls face is seen, while the other is taking video or keeps the phone without the knowledge of other person. There are also many videso where it’s seen the the girl is trying to cover her face with dress or hands. But the person taking the video persuades her to show her face and in some cases, they pull the girl’s hand to reveal her identity.
In some videos it’s evident that it’s posted on such sites to shame the girl or to intentionally malign the character of individual, mostly women.There are many videos where the person shooting the video of a girl is forcing her to show her face on the video. It’s definitely taken with the intention to put the video on the net or to blackmail her.
Just imagine how a person would feel when she know that everyone can see her naked body? Imagine how such a video can tarnish the image of person, cause such an embarrassment to them, and in many cases families will disown them when they come to know about such a video.Cine Actress a Victim of Revenge Porn Pleads for Help
I came across the video clip on YouTube where a Malayalam actress Ajina Menon breaks down after a private naked video of hers gets circulated in video sites and Whatsapp groups. Anyone, in her shoes would have been devastated with such slandering.
She is just one of the many private videos of girls which is circulated without her permission. How do they cope with such slandering videos? |
Is there a counselling for victims?
Aftermath of Such Videos
In most cases, I bet their friends or relatives would shun them. Where will they get help? Who will provide support? What if they take any extreme steps such as the thoughts of taking their life. Is there any society support in the form of helpline or police cell which can deal with such issues? Will the perpetrators and mischief makers be liable?
LAW AGAINST PERPETRATORS OF REVENGE PORN
Despite the rise of such incidents, I don’t come across any report or newspaper report of any conviction. In most cases victims are in a state of shock – not knowing what they can do it to stop it or what action they can take. Going to police station or cyber cell is often the last resort. But, most victims tend to keep the ordeal with themselves. Some of them would be resigned to a feeling of helplessness as the video once out in cyber space is virtually unstoppable. The clip goes like a viral spread – from one site to another, one mobile to many.
What Could be a Deterrent
I feel, it’s time to send a strong message – that anyone found sharing private videos will have to pay a big price. A warning of a strong nature, should be in the form of Police Case, jail confinement, fine and public shaming too.
1. Create a buzz that such perpetrators will be arrested in 24 hrs
2. Jail the mischief maker ( This will be a deterrent )
3. Immediate dismissal from job ( Public or Private sector)
4. Financial compensation to the victim ( Minimum 5 lakh)
5. Create a site where perpetrators of such acts will be listed on the site.
5. Create a site where perpetrators of such acts will be listed on the site.
Well, when I googled I found more information related to revenge porn and few instances of how culprits are booked for sharing private videos.What is Revenge Porn?
Say Big NO When it comes to taking private video – Educating this to Teens ( Schools and Colleges)
What’s being done in other countries against revenge porn?
Parish at Cambridge Layout Lourdes Church
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| Lourdes Church at Cambridge Layout |
Lourdes Church at Cambridge Layout is located in a sprawling green campus at the heart of Bangalore city. Thought it’s our parish church, we are like many of the anonymous folks who come to this churchynomous hardly visit this church. Most of the time, we are away in Trivandrum or we end up going to St Patrick’s church for the evening English mass.
Due to this and to our inherent nature, we are like anonymous faces in this church – just like many other city folks who come to pray or attend their service. Also, every Easter mass when we’re here, I feel lost. This feeling mostly happens when I see many people shaking hands, or giving friendly hugs to other church goers.
And that brings me to a question – what what kind of elusive life do we lead in Bangalore?
I just don’t like this nameless, faceless, city dweller existence. Also, there’s an effort or preparation for people to know you. It doesn’t happen by itself.
Thought people don’t know us, we know few regulars whose presence are felt during any church activities like the feast day when stalls are put up on the ground.
So, talking about church visits, I was thinking how to grow a network with other parishioners. First, get involved in Church’s activities, second, give generous donation, third, set up stalls during feast days. Or, attend the prayer meeting and become a regular at it.
Well, we have just done one or two stalls, but not on a regular basis.
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| Mass Timing |
Mass Timings of Lourdes Church Cambridge Layout
Sunday MASS TIMING
6:AM Tamil
7:AM Kanada
8:AM Tamil
9:15 English
10:15AM Malayalam
6:PM Kanada Mass
Daily Mass
6:AM English
6:PM Kanada
Shock Absorbed
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| Shock Absorber |
In the journey of life, there are unexpected portholes, bumps and uneven roads. Bad patch in life is an inevitable part of life – some make it well, and most people get in a bitter way. I have been though many ups and down, and I still feel I have learnt the lessons I should have.
In the days of my Uncles and dad, things were a lot better ( though not very good). It was a time when people moved from Joint family to singular life. All the support pillars was replaced by individualistic actions. Many people who faced the setbacks alone, had a bitter experience, and some came out scattered, ( means – they had a better system in place).
What are the seen as practical shock proof system of life?
1. Relatives and good friends who can shield you ( Social support)
2. Solace in religion or spirituality ( Call the higher existence)
3. Dependence on intoxicants ( to some extend)
4. Good health ( Do I need to say more)
5. Financial Reserves ( VERY IMPORTANT) When cash is required, only cash can suffice
After Jackfruit, Sardine Stimulus to Kerala Economy
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| Sardine Fry |
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| Sardine Dark Red Curry |
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| Coconut Gravy Sardine Curry – Yum Yum |
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| Cleaning Sardines |
Viewers discretion Advised!
Come all ye sardine lovers. This post is dedicated to sardine lovers – yes, all those who swear by the smelly sardines. I love sardines in any form – curry, dry with coconut or fry, but not too deep fry. It feel it takes the taste away. Well, occasionally it’s fine, the crisp fried one.
The most important things is that sardine should be fresh!
Here in Trivandrum, sardines are available all through the year. During, breeding season, sardines usually get’s a shinny coat of fat. I love it, but something it’s smelly.
Well, this post is not just about the mathi fry or curry, it’s something beyond these home cooked fish. It’s about the new backbone of the Kerala economy.
Welcome to Sardine Economy!
For a long time, we’ve beard a lot on print, TV and online media about the declining remittance from Gulf to Kerala. With job becoming scare in Middle East region, it’s financial crisis for many Malayalee famalies. Just couple of days back ( March 28), I came across this article in the news – As “Gulf Money” Dries Up, Half-Built Bungalows In This Kerala Village , also another article hinting at the recession in Kerala.
Now, the news is about one village in Kerala, but I’m sure it’s going to spread to other villages and towns.
I’m a pessimist. That’s what my friend says. So, bear with me, when I portray a bleak picture.
Do We Stand a Chance to Revive our Economy
With our attitude, I doubt on what we can do. Unless, we shred the bossy, superior attitude. Btw, my version of this is from my observation, not by studying the micro or macro economic indicators of this state.
Arrogant Attitude of Malaylees in Kerala – Well, Meek Pussies Outside
One thing that’s event is our attitude. Walk into a Govt office, or a shop, or hire a union worker, or visit a restaurant or hire an auto. Well, all are not as bad as I portray, but the majority has a negative vibe an unruly talk.
Recently, I went to Kovalam with my friend for a beer. It was the first day of the month, and it’s dry day in Trivandrum. Most sea facing restaurants is Hawa Beach said NO, however, few agreed to serve. And out of this, we picked one.
While we settled for a beer, another group of three foreigners sat in front of us. And, suddenly a waiter ( could be a partner as he had a look of authority) started a verbal fight with one of the lady in the group saying that there’s no food for you. You can leave, you are not going to be served in this place.
This group of senior people walked away. Later, this aggressive waiter explained to another customer that he got pissed b’cos the lady didn’t give any specific order. She said that any soup is fine. He lost his temper for that!
Okay, it’s fine to loose one’s temper, but it’s not acceptable for sales staff to shout at customers in public, and worse, when abusive words ( in Malayalam or any native language) is used. Why did he use swear words in Malayalam, and why didn’t someone stop him. Probably, it’s the accepted behavior.
I have seen situation when nagging customer is politely, and tactfully managed by the sales staff, without making other customers uncomfortable.
Well, I can share many more real experiences, but what’s the point. Interesting part is that these people when they go out of Kerala, are meek, obedient and shepherd orders from the boss. All the show of aggressiveness is only in their home-ground. Have you heard the voice of Malaylees in Gulf or in any other part of India.
COMING BACK TO SARDINE ECONOMY
My thesis is simple, but looks workable as long there’s supply of sardines. It’s based on this hypothesis that we as a state of fish eaters can make a business out of sardines. Make our economy revive a bit, based on this!
Here’s a way to implement.
1. Declare sardine as the state sea fish of Kerala. ( Get some buzz in media, just like jack fruit. It’s Karemmen which is declared as the state fish)
2. Govt teams with hotel industry, home chef’s, individuals. Probably, a competition to new recipes, dishes from sardines. Not just typical curry, but a wide choice of menu. Focus on grills, less oil.
3. Promote sardine barbecue in all coastal towns, dedicate parks for barbecue, booths, where public can hire barbecue and grill sardines. I heard of such places in Gulf area.
4. Facilitate small shop restaurants to sell sardines curry and puttu for breakfast
5. Give training to small metal work industries to make portable coal and electric barchecue sets.
6. Give training to Kudambashree teams to setup up sardine themed tea restaurants, tea shops
7. Sardine fishing trips – give the experience to tourist and natives on the way sardine is caught
8. Sardine burgers, pickles, momos and more
9. Start Sardine and beer joints ( Good combo) It would be the best shot for the economy.
10 Along with sardines, suggest people to add mushroom in their diet. We have many mushroom growers in the state, but it hasn’t still got into the menu of common people.
What does this do for the economy?
1. Job creation, wealth from new restaurant biz
2. A new food sector opens up ( sardine
3. Skilled chefs gets an opportunity to share new recipe
4. Good health, when barbecue is popularized
5 Mushroom business also gets a boost. ( Mushroom kurma), stuffed mushroom with sardines or paneer
What’s your Feedback? Will this Sardine Theory Work?
Who will take this up? I doubt if our politicians have the will to implement or even think of any plans like this to bring some income to the state.
Moru Curd Milk to Beat Summer Sizzle
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| Buttermilk – Save us from the Summer Blast |
Summer is Trivandrum!
We are just at the footsteps of April, yet summer heatwave has already picked its pace. I dread this time of the year, especially when I have to travel outside in the hot sun.
Cool the System!
Drink lots of water, if possible drink curd milk with curry leaves, shallots, and bit of crushed ginger. Btw, why should I complain this weather, when many of our brothers and sisters in Middle East bear even worse weather.
I’m not sure if curd milk is a staple drink in Middle East during peak summer. In Trivandrum, I keep asking shop owners if they think it’s a good idea to sell curd milk during day. So far, none has complied. Why? Most people don’t have manpower to manage an extra activity, few people say that it will divert people from having lunch to a cool drink.
What do you say? Will Kudambashree ladies take this up? For which rate can they sell a glass of curd milk?
What’s the big Idea here!
If you’re running a shop, you can give free curd milk to your customers and to public. It’s a goodwill act and they will thank you for it.
Sponsor a person to setup a curd milk booth or on a cart. If you’re a member of any of the clubs ( Rotary, Lions, Inner Wheel) or voluntary organization ( Red Cross), you can propose an idea to fund a small biz project – provide means to open a curd milk counter by the road side.
Sanitary Napkin Dispenser Project Bangalore
#whisper #carefree #sanitarynapkin
A friend got her period while she was out in a mall. With no shops to buy a napkin, she had to go out of the mall to buy a pad. Imagine if there’s no place to buy pad in a mall, just imagine the scenario in places bus stands, railway station,etc.
Every problem is a business opportunity…says, somone!
It’s commonsense to install a napkin dispenser in the ladies toilet, or in railway station, or in bus stands or airport.
When I searched online, there are many vendors selling napkin dispenser and even demo of such pieces are on the You. But, I haven’t seen one that’s run by any of the healthcare or sanitary napkin company.
Are they not seeing the opportunity?
Or it’s a machine that’s not useful. Now imagine a multi-tasking machine, which can manually or automatically dispense napkin, tissue pack ( small), a pouch of perfume, or even fresh jasmine flowers, or kid’s diaper, bottled water, wet tissue, ipill… yes, all from one machine!
Is it possible?
What about keeping something like this in colleges, Majestic bus tand, or railway station, one in Bangalore Metro station.
Just thinking! Probably, this could be a kiosk maned by a person ( employment opportunity).
Tata Cha Experience
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| Poha at Tata cha |
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| Buzz at Tata Cha |
Another new tea brew experience in Bangalore is here. Out of no where, TataCha has carved out an audience with it’s affordable priced tea, snacks and light refreshments.
First, I like the location, second the ambiance ( indoor space and outdoor). I’m not great at judging the size and variety of menu – however, I like the small bites, though I found it a bit on the higher side.
Also, the vibe at this place is different from the similar places like Coffee Day or many other joints in this locality. Also, I wonder if this is a TATA’s venture into hot beverage business. Anyway, I like the way they talk about their business.
Flossy Ideas, Meetups and Views 