My First DSLR Camera - CANON EOS 500D

Disappointing quality of pictures from compact digital cameras led me to look for DSLR camera which will tackle all the problems I was facing with compact digital cameras. Keeping in mind that I am not a professional photographer it was a bit of challenge to marry price of the camera and quality of pictures to make it value for money deal and a win win situation. My research on internet world went on for months to conclude on the make and model of my first DSLR. Honestly I myself was not exactly clear what all I was looking for?

Downloaded from Internet world

Somehow I manage to reach the final stage of my research on make and model and it was Canon EOS 500D. Yes Nikon 5000D was in game till last moment but my comfort with Canon helped me stick to the decision to buy only Canon.

In first week of November 2010 I finally got much awaited DSLR Canon EOS 500D at cost of INR 34,000 only. The first thing I liked about this camera was its looks, it looks superb.




The key features it brought:-

1. 15.1 Mega Pixels resolution. (Don’t really need it)
2. 3 inch LCD screen with 920K pixels. It is far better than some of desktop screen resolution
3. Self Cleaning Sensor Unit
4. Extremely less start up time i.e 0.1 Seconds
5. High Definition Video
6. EXTREMELY IMPRESSIVE SHUTTER SPEED i.e 3.4 fps
7. EFS Lenses 18-55mm with image stabilizer and auto/manual focus

First Test of Canon EOS 500D
The time was to test its efficiency on ground. I started exploring it with Auto mode. The first thing I found interesting about it was its Shutter Speed, it fascinated me so much that I ended up clicking numerous pictures without trying to use various options the new gadget had brought. Compact Digital Cameras has frustrating shutter speed but Canon EOS 500D was delivering pictures in fraction of seconds.

A Dark ceiling of Old Temple in Chamba

Auto Focus / Manual Focus
What to say about it, irrespective of whether the lenses are set to 18mm or the extreme 55mm, Auto Focus does real wonders. You will not even realise when lenses have done their work in terms of focus. It just happens real-time. Of course in manual focus, you will have to adjust the focus manually at level where the clarity is on it peak.

With 18mm EFS lense in Auto Focus mode

Image Stabiliser
Tried my camera while travelling on Bus of hilly terrains and rough roads, results of the pictures because of amazing shutter speed and effective image stabiliser, produced great quality pictures.

Clicked from running Bus

Pictures at Night or in Low Light
This was one of the main reasons for me to opt for DSLR. Canon EOS 500D solved my problem. You just forget about the word “BLUR” in your pictures. Not even a single dot of blur on night/low light pictures. I could catch some great moments of Diwali night in Gadget.

Diwali Night. A picture without flash

Close up Shots
This was another fascinating part for me. I love to click close up pictures for small flowers and species. This time again my choice buying of Canon EOS 500D proved me right. No matter how close you take camera to the object, EFS lenses and Auto Focus ensures high quality blur less picture.

Clicked with 55mm EFS lense from a distance of few centimeters

The camera has different basic shooting modes which are:-

1. Full Auto - Applicable in almost all conditions
2. Portraits - For Portraits pictures with more focus on close-up
3. Landscapes - For wider view of Landscapes. I did not find it different from Auto mode
4. Close-Up - Ensures more clarity of object and blur background
5. Sports - For moving objects. Quite an useful mode
6. Night - Ensure Blur less pictures in night
7. Disabling Flash - Comes handy where Flash is not allowed e.g museum etc
8. Creative Auto - As per me it’s a Semi Manual mode wherein you can adjust Flash firing, Blurring/sharpening background or object, adjust recording quality and drive mode.

Apart from Basic modes the most important part comes with Advance shooting modes which includes Program AE, A-DEP, AV, TV and of course Manual mode.

I have not yet explored Video mode at all so doesn’t know the actual delivery against highly talked about HD Video of this model.

Turn off of Canon EOS 500D:-
Really difficult to find out technical flaws in this brilliant work but:-

1. It is so delicate that you need to take extra care of it unlike compact Digital cameras which can be carried in pocket without hesitation.
2. As a consumer I would expect DSLR manufacturer to focus on Size of the camera. If you wish to carry it regularly you just can not do it.
3. In Auto Mode, The flash goes up automatically with great speed which disturbs the photographer. It can be designed in a manner that it goes up gently and softly.
4. Features like Bluetooth or infrared can make such model friendlier with Computers rather than traditional way of transferring data with the help of cable.

All in all the experience with this master piece has been amazing and I found it real value for money product.

Biking Tips for Enthusiast Bikers to Himalayas

Venturing into Himalayas on Bike? Based on my experience of various stretches on Bike Trips here are some important tips before you get into this adventure.

BIKE – THE MOST IMPORTANT AND ONLY COMPANION

Any bike, in a good condition, but at least of 150 CC and plus would make your trip successful, yes bikes with 350 CC and 500 CC would have an advantage on high altitude and steep roads to make the experience heavenly. Important things to keep in mind:-

1. Bike is properly and thoroughly serviced before you start the trip
2. Change Engine Oil even if you had done this a month ago
3. Many a times we forget to check some critical wires like Clutch wire, make sure all are in good condition
4. Mirrors really help a lot, so even if you have removed the mirrors this is the time to put it on (both), you will realise its importance on busy terrains and helps you to keep a track of your fellows (who are following you) when you are busy on curves leaning your bike.
5. Make sure to keep Fuel tank always full.

BIKING APPARALES

Personally I learnt that no matter how great is your bike and biking skills, if you are not equipped with right and comfortable apparels, you will undergo a hell for sure in Himalayas which is a heaven otherwise.

Here is what you must have:-

1.  Helmet: Simply to say “IT IS MUST”. But make sure you have branded helmet (WITH VISOR ON IT) which will not only protect you in case of accident but also from extreme weather conditions with low temperature and killer winds on various passes.
2.  Eyewear: Keep sunglasses, it will help you riding easy in a sunny day somewhere in the middle of Himalayas
3. Gloves: Keep two pair of waterproof leather gloves, one pair can be fingerless gloves for riding in planes or hot days and other pair of Gloves for extreme cold conditions and high altitude ride.
4. Jacket: You need to have Biking Jacket, which will serve you two critical purpose one protection from injuries in case of accident and second protection from cold weather and unfriendly winds.
5. Boots: Many a times people make mistakes of bearing sports shoes, Never ever do that. Most of the sports shoes are meant with a motive to keep your feet fresh with Air. Go for shoes which will keep your feet warm. ALSO KEEP EXTRA PAIR OF SHOE WITH YOU, you will cross countless rivers and waterfalls on the way.
6. Body Armour: It is advisable to use armours. If you have typical biking jacket it will have armour for chest, elbows, spine and shoulders so no need in that case else go for at least Elbow armour and Knee armour as well.

MANTRA OF SAFE AND ENJOYABLE RIDING    

1. Never go over speed in an excitement of thrilling and heavenly terrains.
2. Never compete with fellow riders.
3. Keep fair distance with each others if you are riding in big group
4. Have clear Road map before you start the ride
5. Make comprehensive plan for longer rides keeping in mind the stop overs, speed, Petrol Pumps and food.
6. Obey all rules and regulations of area where you are riding. In some places you would require permission from Local authorities before you enter into specific areas, make arrangements for such situations accordingly.
7. Keep some bike accessories with you, like an air pump, Tyre tube and a standard Tool kit.
8. Carry all documents related to bike with you and needless to mention YOUR DRIVING LICENCE.
9. Keep Fuel Tank and your stomach always full on the ride

NICE TO HAVE

1. Wrist watch to keep a track on time and speed
2. A compass and Altimeter. There are wrist watches available which has Temperature, altitude and compass in it. Ranges from 14,000 INR to 20,000 INR.
3. A Torch will come handy in interiors and Roadside Tents.
4. If you are doubtful about your comfort with Low Oxygen levels at high altitudes such as Leh, Khardoongla Pass (World’s highest motorable pass), Rohtang Pass on Manali Leh Road, keep medicines with you

GUYS IF YOU DO NOT CARRY SUNSCREEN AND LIP GUARD CREAM, YOU WILL CARRY A NICE GIFT FOR RIDING IN HIMALAYAS WHICH IS TANNING AND WILL HAVE TO LIVE WITH IT FOR FEW MONTHS.

All this will make your trip a great success for sure. HAVE A GREAT, SAFE AND HAPPY RIDE. GOOD LUCK !!

Bike Mania – Ride to Himalaya

Common Wealth Games season on peak in Delhi and a long weekend ahead of us, we were trying to figure out the best deal for four days. It started with ideas to go to Darjeeling then Jim Corbett Park in Uttaranchal and finally we concluded with a plan to Ride up to Himalayas on bikes.

After lot of research and discussions we finalized the route which was Gurgaon – Delhi – Chandigarh – Chail – Kufri – Narkanda – Rampur – Shimla – Chandigarh and way back to Gurgaon. The total distance we calculated was around 1150 KM.

The group of four crazy riders was Anurag Bisht, Vaibhav Gupta, Rajat Tandon (Pillion Rider) and me.

From left - Me, Vaibhav and Anurag, Rajat is missing here :(

Three Bikes Pulsar 220 CC (Anurag B), CBZ Xtreme (Vaibhav G) and Pulsar 150 CC (me) were all set to cruse and fly.

 

Day 1 – 14th Oct 2010

It was a Common Wealth Games closing ceremony day and I was bit apprehensive about Road’s accessibility to cross Delhi City hence we started early morning at 6:30 AM. All of us met at Gurgaon Toll Point and started the trip.

The objective of the day was to finish off the distance of Gurgaon Chandigarh and reach Chail by evening same day.

Both Anurag and Vaibhav are extremely superb riders and along with them I also started cruzing bike on National Highway 1 which connects Delhi Chandigarh. We soon were riding at a speed of 90 – 100 kmph. Since all of us had an experience of riding in extreme weather conditions hence had enough of arrangement to protect ourselves from Cold winds of highway and tanning during day time.

Our first stop over was at Murthal, around 85 KM from Gurgaon, where we had heavy breakfast and soon we were set to fly. All of us were extremely excited to reach Chail as soon as possible.

The National Highway 1 is so smooth that it becomes monotonous many a times and you never know when you go to sleep while riding. But Anurag had a benefit of Pillion rider Rajat who always ensured that Anurag is awake invariably.

Cruzing our bikes at 100 kmph plus speed, crossing crowded small towns on NH 1 and flying on overwhelming over bridges to avoid traffic, we soon finished off with NH 1 and took diversion from Zirakpur (near Chandigarh) towards NH 22 which leads to Shimla and Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh.

I was shocked to see the Road Zirakpur - Panchkula - Pinjore. I could see the difference of today’s situation and a three year old situation. Earlier the road from Panchkula to Pinjore was such that one would really feel that we have started a journey to a hill station, the road sides were full of trees and Greenery, the situation which we faced was extremely contrary, NO TREES, NO GREENERY and Flyover under construction creating traffic havoc all around. I was really shocked to see this. “If industrial development comes at this cost, simply hell with it.The world can live on eco friendly modes.”

Himachal Pradesh Entry at Parwanoo

It was traffic jam all around till we crossed Kalka (last city of Haryana State) and entered Himachal Pradesh at Parwanoo Barrier.

Rough roads increased our appetite and need of the time was to have lunch somewhere. Beautiful Valley and Thrilling terrains took us till Dharampur where we stopped at Gyani Da Dhaba for Lunch. We simply loved the food.

It was time to take last ride of the day from Dharampur to Chail and we had to cross Solan City before we take diversion from NH 22 for Chail. There were few stretches of rough and sturdy roads before we reached Solan.

At Machine

We left NH 22 from place called Kandaghat and started towards Chail. The distance from Kandaghat to Chail was around 30 KM and believe me all of us enjoyed every bit of it. None of us can forget those beautiful terrains on a narrow road and NIL traffic from opposite direction. A small village called “Machine” forced us to take a break. This place had a small waterfall on narrow road side and a Grocery cum Tea Shop on the other side.

I was stunned to see the beautiful valley of Chail as I had never expected this place to be so breadth taking and calm. We enquired about best hotels in Chail and landed up in Hotel called “The Lions”. It was an impressive deal and Food served here deserves a special mention, it was superbly delicious.

Spectacular Chail Valley

In Chail, we went out to Sunset point but our pillion rider could not join us as he was most tired among us. We met few local children, all of whom jumped on our bikes like bees. We did relax for a while, enjoyed Sunset and headed back to Hotel.

At Chail with Local kids 

Evening was full of entertainment with sharing past time memories, like how we use to bunk school/colleges, how we fought for small things and list is endless. The best part I liked about all my fellow riders is that all of them use to make fun of each other’s but respect their capabilities and skills.

The day ended with superb experience of riding, food, fun and masti.

The Bike meter read 407 KM for the day.

Day 2 – 15th Oct 2010

It was a pleasant day at Chail and our Ride started bit late at 10:30 AM. It was Vodka hang over for two and other two had to accompany them last night in gossiping.

The route for the day was Chail – Kufri – Narkanda – Rampur. The distance was around 170 KM. Cozy morning of Chail and uphill ride from Chail to Kufri was a memorable experience and like a cake walk, our bikes were cruzing up very easily. The entire road was very picturesque and we stopped at few places to capture those memories in our cameras.

On the way Chail to Kufri...Team ready to raid the Himalayas

I broke my Kodak 10x Zoom Camera’s lens cover here; while talking on phone I was trying to change the batteries of the camera when I had to pay this penalty.

At Kufri we stopped for tea break and headed towards Narkanda which was around 70 KM from here.

Kufri Stop over for bikers

It was a real surprise when we were in very very horrible roads and dust everywhere suddenly. In hope of good roads ahead of us we kept riding slowly but it worked exactly other way round and road condition became bad to worst. There were times when we were standing on our bikes and riding among trucks and no visibility because of the dust. Somehow we manage to reach at Narkanda by 2:00 PM and decided to stop at Roadside restaurant for Lunch. All of us were irritated with road conditions and one thought came that let’s head back to Shimla as there is no fun of wasting time in such horrible roads. I was surprised with the condition of NH 22; moreover this is the road which connects the eastern part of Himachal Pradesh, a strategic link for ITBP as well.

After Lunch we learnt from locals that this is the last point of worst roads and best was ahead of us. We continued our journey towards Rampur which was still 80 KM from Narkanda. It was ride downhill till Rampur which was another surprise to all of us. We had thought that we would be raising high altitude as we ride but it was other way round and Rampur City was at very low levels. After experiencing worst stretch we enjoyed the smooth ride and took few breaks before we reached Rampur.

Satluj River and Rampur Town in the Valley

We drove along Satluj River for around 40 KM before we reached Rampur by 6:00 PM and chose to stay at Hotel called “Little Chef Hotel”

Second day of the tour was really hectic and full of surprises; all of us were very tired. The food here again deserves a mention; it was completely delicious and incomparable.

We decided to explore alternate road to reach Shimla next day as we were not in a mood to experience the same horrible stretches on NH 22. We were told that there is an alternate road which is around 40 KM longer than NH 22, since we had enough time on Day 3 we decided to explore the new way.

Day 3 – 16th Oct 2010

16th Oct, a lazy morning and relatively warm weather, the day started at 8:30 AM with breakfast and pack up at Hotel. We filled Petrol Tanks and checked Tyre pressure; this was needed as we were heading on a road which was supposed to be isolated and no man land kind of stretches.

We drove along Satluj River on NH 22 before we took a diversion from place called “Kingal”. Somone advised us to not to opt for this way as this was longer than NH 22 and isolated. However we were determined to find out the alternate of NH 22 and it was in front of us. As we drove on the road, first board I saw was “Road Maintained by BRO” and that was the biggest relief for me. I know the work of BRO and now I was sure of having an amazing ride, and it happened so. Uphill ride brought us the most beautiful valleys which we would have missed out otherwise. Hardly had we found vehicles on that road, perhaps we can count the number of vehicles we crossed on a distance of 190 KM.

Thrilling terrains on Kingal Shimla Road maintained by BRO

There are small villages on the way but no one outside, however there were tiny tea shops and Grocery stores at few places. I don’t think any biker have explored this stretch till now, this seemed completely untouched and unexplored.

At tea shop on the way to Shimla

Riding of day 3 comprised of uphill / downhill terrains, picturesque places, Waterfalls, Valleys and no traffic.

We entered Shimla via Village called Mashobara which is around 10 KM before Shimla. I would advise all people visiting Shimla to stay at Mashobara rather than crowded places of city. This village is simply awesome and roads are surrounded by Oak and Pine wood. After smooth ride through Mashobara, Shimla’s dirty and dusty roads welcomed us at 4:30 PM. It is really shame for Government to keep roads of Capital in such a bad condition.

As usual the first activity was to find out Hotel for night stay. In another one hour we were at Mall Road of Shimla, where every tourist reaches. We took two rounds of the mall, had Pizza and headed back to Hotel.

Most photographed Church at Mall Road Shimla

See Shimla with my eyes

The day ended with usual activities of gossips, fun, food etc. As we had to start Day 4 early in the morning we slept on time.

Day 4 – 17th Oct 2010

Last day of our tour and we were to head back to Gurgaon from Shimla, a distance of around 400 KM which included 200 KM steep downhill ride and then NH 1 straight ride till Delhi.

The day started at 7:00 AM with morning tea. And it was 7:45 AM when we started the ride from Shimla. Contrary to last three days, this day was very cold and all of us were freezing on bikes, but this also could not stop our accelerators and we reached back at Dharampur for Breakfast at 9:30 AM. Exceptionally heavy breakfast filled us up with energy for rest of the day.

Ride beyond Dharampur till Parwanoo was non stoppable and it was Kalka’s horrible traffic which made us cool down our engines.

Once we touched NH 1 at Zirakpur in Punjab all of us took our speedometers till 100 kmph. We took some small breaks but it was 130 KM before Delhi when we stopped for Lunch. Had a superb lunch again and then we stopped at Delhi entrance from where Vaibhav had to go in other direction.

Last picture of the trip

We reached Gurgaon at 5:30 PM.

The best part of the ride was that we did not have any break down and unplanned delay. The turn on of the trip for me was the great company and turn off was NH 22 rough stretch from Kufri to Narkanda.

Every time I try to do something different, it brings me new experiences, learning in my life and provokes me to go beyond it. I would really love to have a longer trip than this one with the same group.

Donate Blood – Save a Life

There is no other Noble cause as Blood Donation in this world. Human Body just takes 24 hours to generate the equivalent amount of blood which one donates. Average human body has around 10 units of blood out of which one unit is taken during donation.

Most of the time Blood requirement exceeds the supply, why so? The demand and supply of Human blood is incomparable, as per the available facts annual requirement of blood in India is 40 million Units and the sad part is only 4 million units are available. The pride and feeling of donating blood and giving someone a life back is unexplainable, then why are we running out of it.

Science has not yet found a technique to manufacture human blood hence can only be made available from generous donors. A blood unit donated by you can save lives of three human beings. You never know when you can save a life of small kid who has just learnt to walk or a young life that has zeal to fulfil his/her dreams like you and me or a father whom his children look up.

As per the standards a normal/healthy human being can donate blood every three months, which means 4 units in a year and you can go up to the age of 60 years, so count how many units you can donate till you reach 60, and multiply those units with 3, that is the number of lives you can save.

Most commonly answer from people who do not donate blood is that “They never thought about it”. Till Jun 2010, I was also in this category of never thought about it. In June 2010 I came across a situation wherein someone needed blood urgently and I never gave a thought before agreeing to it. I felt really proud after helping the needy.

The feeling was so noble that I took a pledge to donate blood every three months and added reminder in my phone calendar for next due date for donation.

On 25^th Sep 2010 I went to AIIMS Delhi for Voluntary Blood Donation. Since Doctors and other hospital staff understands the importance of blood donation, everyone there was looking at me with great respect when they heard that I have come for Voluntary Blood Donation. They treated me really well unlike their normal style. Donation process takes hardly 25 minutes from filling form till the completion of donation and refreshment.

This time I felt happier than when I donated first time. The difference which I could make is that in my first donation it was not me who took the initiative, someone really needed it so I offered my services there, whereas in second donation it was me who took the initiative for this noble cause.

Looking at our economy and average age of our country (somewhere between 24 to 29 Years) the significant difference in demand and supply makes me really wondering where is our youth hiding? Let’s stand for this noble cause together and carry a feeling of pride of being human.

Based on my experience I can tell you that it has no side effects at all and No weakness. Some words of precaution like avoid driving or travelling till half an hour of donation, No weightlifting or workout at least for a day and avoid any kind of physical stress for 24 hours at least.

Do it once and you will really realise that this is the noblest thing you ever have done and share it with your network with proud, because believe me nothing is greater than saving lives without any expectations, that’s called the HUMANITY.

Amritsar – Where Spirituality and Patriotism comes together

Long awaited plan to Golden Temple materialised in Sep 2010, when I decided to go there alone as most of my friends showed their inability to join me. And I started off on Friday 17th Sep 2010 from Gurgaon. The mode was our great Indian Railway, Train Muri Express from Old Delhi Railway Station at 9:15 PM. I left Gurgaon at 6:00 PM, a Big thanks to Delhi Metro that it took me exactly 50 minutes from Gurgaon to Old Delhi Railway Station. I reached much earlier than what I had expected so nothing much to do other than waiting at the Platform watching people moving here and there, hearing the repetitive announcements “The Train No.......... coming via..........will reach on its time and will arrive at Platform No.........” the same gets repeated in Hindi as well, After sometime it starts bugging like anything, moreover voice of the lady is also not so melodious that one would wish to hear it again and again.

It was 8:30 PM when announcement lady announced “Muri Express Train No 8101 is running late by 2 Hours from it standard time, Inconvenience is deeply regretted.” Bloody it would be now 10:35 PM and I would start from Delhi at 11:00 PM only, that too subject to further delays. Finished off Paying Guest packed dinner, finished off watching people here and there, exhausted with boring announcements, what next? Of course FM Radio! Retros and Gazals on FM ate my extra time, but why can’t these reality estate advertisements can be banned at least in the evening. You are listening to late nineties song sitting in open with really pleasant weather and suddenly a boring advertisement spoils the entire mood. Yes we do have a choice of flipping FM channels from one to another.

Finally Train arrived at its so called committed time of 10:35 PM. Got into Sleeper Class, Non AC as I did not get booking for 3 tier or 2 tier. Keeping in mind the weather I had no problem travelling in Non AC. I slept immediately and got up in the morning at 6:00 AM when the train had reached Ludhiana Station. Still there were long 3 hours which I spent by starring at greenery everywhere in Punjab.

Golden Temple

I reached Amritsar at 9:00 AM on Saturday 18th Sep 2010. My enthusiasm to reach Golden Temple at the earliest made me overcome my tiredness. Soon I was outside Golden Temple; last I went there was year 2005 and no major changes till now other than the fact that in 2005 you could take your vehicle much closer to Golden Temple but now Traffic Police would not allow to do so and you will have to walk half a mile approximately.

Yet another thing which has not changed is the Shining Golden Temple. I really admire the administration of the Temple for that. Unlike TajMahal, Its beauty is well valued by people and has been given the right treatment which this piece of architect deserves. From entrance itself the view of Golden Temple standing firm in the middle of water touches your heart. I was wondering whether I had seen Golden Temple carefully in my last two visits couple of years back. It was all together a great feeling of comfort as if I have comeback home and I am completely safe here. As I reached relatively early in the morning I did not have to wait long in the queue. It took me hardly 15 minutes for my turn for Darshan inside Golden Temple. The faith in God can be seen on the faces of people, so many devotees spends hours and hours reading religious books on 1st Floor of Golden Temple and I saw a very old & adorable Sikh who had book in his hands and had slept comfortably. It reminded me of Examination days.

I came across a touching story of immense faith people have in God and in its divine powers. I saw a Lady in her late forties with her son (should not be more than 16 years old). Unfortunately the young boy did not seem to me a normal child. This mother was guiding and holding his hand so affectionately as if she wants to give him all the happiness of this world. I remember how she was telling him all the rituals and importance of the place. It touched my heart when mother held his both hands to receive prashaad and how she moved his hands full of prashaad to touch his eyes. I had tears in my eyes and I just went away from them.

An honest confession, perhaps I never thanked God from bottom of my heart for whatever I have been blessed with. But this day I would remember lifetime that this Mother-Son couple made me realised that I am so blessed and rich and I must thank god for the same. I could not do much other than praying for the little boy who has just started his life.

Unlike Manimahesh Lake, the water here was of normal temperature so dip in holy water was not at all a difficult thing to do. I spent around 2:30 hours in the temple.

Durgiana Temple

After Golden Temple, my plan was to go to Durgiana Temple which is also situated in the middle of the city and not too far from Golden Temple. Durgiana Temple has been made as per the format of Golden Temple which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna. Although it has been made as per the format of Golden Temple but smaller area as compare to Golden temple makes it completely different. Moreover nothing much and exciting here but still lot of people visit this place.

Met a group of five ladies whom I provided my photography services. All were very decent and wanted me to click more and more pictures for them. They chased me in the temple for getting pictures again and again, that too in two different cameras. They asked me to join their group but their next destination Jallianwala Baag Memorial was not in my agenda.

Jallianwala Baag

Board Showing Bullet Marks

As I had enough time, I decided to go to Jallianwala Baag Memorial. There is no specific reason why I did not want to go there. The entrance of Baag is really small and I think that is what made the difference in 1919. In normal course not more than two people can walk together in the entrance so think of the situation when innocent people were fired. You can see bullet marks, Martyr’s well some paintings, a small museum and those who have read books about this memorial can correlate few more places probably. This place seems overcrowded because of its compact size.

A painting kept in Baag

A funny thing I spotted in the museum is that they have kept a note written by some media wherein it is mentioned that one of the British group came in 1996 to this place to express their apologies for what their ancestors have done in Jallianwala Baag in 1919. I felt that it was an insult of martyrs and bad joke cracked by those jokers who came to say sorry.

While coming out I did see those five ladies but I was hungry so I thought I will prefer food than joining this group of ladies. Though Amritsar is known for great Cuisine I had good food but not great food near Jallianwala Baag.

Bagha Border

Time was flying away. It was 3:00 PM and I got a deal in Rs 70 (to Bagha Border and back) in sharing Auto Rickshaw. The driver overloaded Auto and took many breaks for different reasons before we reached Bagha Border. There was a long queue and I had no option than to stand there in queue and wait. It was so crowded as if entire Amritsar has come here. Thankfully weather had turned cool by this time and queue started moving slowly. We crossed three Gates when we reached the great Bagha Border. It looked so calm and beautiful around. Full greenery everywhere, and Pakistan side no more were different.

Soon the entire stadium was full of people, surprisingly no one on the other side. Once I reached in the Stadium where I could see the Gate of Pakistan and flags of both countries at one place, I said standing in long queue was really worth. BSF plays all patriotic songs to keep audience busy. There is nothing but two simple Iron Gate divides two countries and those gates can be opened easily. Slowly the crowd on Pakistan side also had started gathering. They exactly looked like our Punjabi people, there is nothing different that there is a need of sitting on different sides but we human beings are the only culprits to create such differences. When people were sitting on different sides there were few who had privilege to fly everywhere. Yes birds, for them this event was nothing more than a Crowd and noise of people, I wish I could also do so.

Volunteers go onto the road and run with Tricolour till the India Pakistan Gates and come back. People dance, people shout, people clap and what else you want to do there you are free bird as long as you don’t fly. BSF and Pakistani Rangers perform parade for half an hour before Flag are taken off by both sides for the day before sunset. During this time only one can hear is “Hindustan Zindabad”, Bande Mataram” and “Bharat Mata ki Jay”, When Indians are making so much of noise how can Pakistan be quite.

The noise reaches the peak when flags are taken off. It is done in such a manner that at one point both Flags get merged and looks like one. That is the time when people make really huge noise and noise for being one and not separate countries. Claps from both sides support this fully. For me also this was the defining moment, after that everything looked so artificial and small that I decided to leave the Stadium. I was going back with a question, how big India was before partition? If this partition would not have taken place we definitely would have become number one by now.

Entire road outside Stadium was flooded with vehicles, so I could not find out the Auto in which I had come. Luckily I got another one who told me to drop me at Railway Station.

For Amritsar Delhi, the travelling did not bring any surprises unlike Delhi to Amritsar. Golden Temple Mail train started on time and reached Delhi on time at 7:00 AM on 19th Sep 2010.

However Delhi Metro gave a surprise when all passengers were asked to get down of the train for 10 minutes for Mock Drill, just one station before my destination. Soon we were told that there is some problem so it will take 2 hours. I started walking rather than looking for some other mode to reach home and guess what ? My favourite ! it started drizzling. What else I could have asked for? Another trip ended with sweet memories and beautiful experiences.

Pilgrimage to Manimahesh Lake

My inclination towards God and trekking this time took me to Manimahesh Lake in Chamba District of Himachal Pradesh.

Manimahesh Lake is located at an altitude of 4080 Meters (13,390 Feet) situated close to the Manimahesh Kailash Peak in the Pir Panjal Range of Himalayas. People believe that Lord Shiva stays at Manimahesh Kailash. Devotees from various places in the country travel to Manimahesh during Janam Ashthami every year. Normally people start travelling from Aug beginning till Sep end.

Chamba district is not connected with train hence people travel via Road from Pathankot (which is the nearest Train connected city, 120 KM away from Chamba). Even if Chamba was connected with train I would have advised anyone to travel via Road, because the journey from Pathankot to Chamba crosses through the most beautiful terrains, mountains and natural beauty of Chamba district.

The true pilgrimage to Manimahesh Kailash starts from Chamba. Few people opt to go on feet and most prefers to travel via Road till Bharmour (which is 70 KM away from Chamba). Bharmour is very old town and is known for famous temples such as Temple of Sidhs, Chaurasi Temple Complex and only temple in the world of Dharamraj- Yama. Road travel from Chamba to Bharmour is not a cakewalk at all. High Altitude roads, dangerous terrains and risk of land sliding would never let you sleep for a while. If you are not experienced driver on hills, do not try it here, it might cost you a lot. However natural beauty is no less than anywhere else. Apple orchards on roadside and mountains with green colour welcome every visitor. (My hometown is situated 35 KM away from Chamba on Chamba Bharmour Road, called Gehra). Last motor able destination of Pilgrimage is Hadsar which is 14 KM from Bharmour Town.

It takes almost a day for Pathankot – Chamba – Bharmour – Hadsar stretch via Road. Now a days Helicopter services from Chamba to Bharmour and further to Manimahesh Kailash are also available.

Lodging and Boarding is not at all a challenge, because everywhere you will get fairly cheaper accommodation and free meal (Langars).

My journey started on 1^st of Sep 2010 along with my Brother in Law. We reached Bharmour by 2:30 PM and were able to start the trek from Hadsar at 3:00 PM. As we started, soon, we were surrounded by colourful crowd moving both ways (up and down). No thorough security check, not a surprise to me because our Himachal Government is too lazy in such things.

Devotion of people towards Lord Shiva many a time made me feel so small, an old lady of around 70 years climbing up with a heavy bag, physically disabled Monk climbing on One Leg, chanting “Bam Bam Bhole” and a young man carrying essential items bulky stuff on back and hardly six month old baby in hands (I don’t know where the mother was?) are some of examples for it.

The total distance from Hadsar to Manimahesh Kailash is 14 KM.
Helicopter services are also available for it.

As we kept climbing the scenic beauty of mountains, landscapes and waterfalls increased. In two hours we reached the first stop over called Dhanchho which is 5 KM from Hadsar (starting point of trek). A small break with Tea and Masala Dosa fuelled enough energy in us to keep climbing. As we were heading towards evening, Monsoon Fog made our trek quite and hectic due to low Oxygen levels. By the time we reached the next Stop-over “Sundrasi” it was complete dark and almost zero visibility due to Fog.  It was 7:30 PM and we decided to keep going after small break with Tea. By this time we started feeling the weight of lighter bags. The only plus point we had that Pedestrians were really in good condition and no rains till now.

The relief at Sundrasi stop-over was that we had covered almost 70% of the stretch and we still had enough of energy to climb further despite bad weather and night. The distance from Sundrassi to Next stop over Gauri Kund is 3.5 KMs. The pedestrian crosses a valley called Bhainro Ghaati. Within 15 minutes we realised that this is going to be the most difficult stretch for us. Low Oxygen, Fog, Night and 75 Degree climb sucked all energy out of us. We took the longest time to cover 3.5 KM and took maximum breaks around 10 times. The only motivation was those little lights blinking on the top of the mountain like Stars. We were dying for food now. Somehow we manage to reach our destination Gauri Kund by 8:30 PM. Simple Rice and Dal tasted so delicious that we enjoyed every bit of it. Yaah, how can we skip Tea in cold weather of 10 Degree.

Now the Sacred Manimahesh Lake was 1.5 KM away and we could see the lights on the top. My Brother in Law was apprehensive about tent availability on Lake so he proposed to stay at Gauri Kund and cover balance 1.5 KM next day early morning. But I did not wish to loose the opportunity to spend a day at Sacred Manimahesh Lake. Hence we climbed. Yes it was difficult but knowing the fact that this is small and last stretch of trek we did not give up and finally we won the battle at 9:30 PM.

It was late night and foggy so we could not see Lake as well as Manimahesh Kailash. We decided to look for a Tent. While we were scouting for Tent, suddenly everyone started chanting “Om Namah Shivay” while looking towards Manimahesh Kailash. When I looked up, there was a light blinking on the top of Manimahesh Kailash. It is believed that this Mani is Jewel on the crown of Lord Shiva. I was blessed one among few hundreds who witnessed this for 7 to 8 minutes of duration. The interesting thing is that the entire Manimahesh Kailash was covered with thick fog and the only thing visible was the Mani. According to a local legend, the moon-rays reflected from the jewel can be seen from Manimahesh Lake on clear full moon night (which is a rare occasion) but in our case the sky was not at all clear, then from where it came? Moreover it is impossible to climb up to the peak of Manimahesh Kailash.

After witnessing such an unprecedented scene I was completely fresh but Mercury of less than 10 Degree forced us to continue scout for a tent to spend the night.

Next day morning we got up at 6:00 AM and when I looked outside the first thing I saw was Manimahesh Kailash with zero Fog, which is again a rare occasion. 90% of people go back without seeing Kailash because weather always remains unpredictable here. The next activity was to take a holy dip in Manimahesh Lake. Believe me this is the challenge. Freezing water and cold winds makes it really a tough task. Very few dare to take a dip into Lake Water. I managed to take dip for two minutes and after that I was unconscious for a while.

Last activity for me was to enjoy the Sunrise on Kailash. As usual I captured lots of pictures and then was the time to head back to our homes.

If you are a passionate trekker then you would know that coming down is far tougher than climbing up. The steepness of the stretch was realised while coming down. One is more prone to accidents and injuries while going north to south than south to north. By the time we ended the trekking portion my feet were completely paining. Thank fully no injuries.

The highlights of the Pilgrimage to Manimahesh Kailash for me are picturesque landscapes, Noisy & breathtaking Waterfalls, Devotion of people towards Lord Shiva, Stay at Sacred Lake in Tent and Mani Darshan.

Wikipedia as always has portrayed the history of Manimahesh Lake very beautifully, see the link http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manimahesh_Lake

The World that I imagine!!

No boundary, No Borders, No Wars, No terrorism, No Global Warming, No Nuclear Weapon threats, No Conflicts and list goes on. Each one of us aspires for this world.

I wish human being in ancient times did not draw boundaries and divide beautiful earth into parts.

A world full of love and affection. Terrorism free world.  This has threatened the entire humanity.

A world where there is no dispute on ownership of geographies. People live with peace, Love, affection and support each other to live better and happily.

We are celebrating 64^th Independence Day of India. But our brothers and sisters in Kashmir are boiling for independence.  Common Wealth Games are a month away and Corruption & Politics on it has hampered the work, our country’s image is on stake.

I imagine a world if there was no division of geographies, issues such as Kashmir would not have cropped up and people who deserve to live in heavenly Kashmir with Peace are struggling to live life freely.

Think of the sacrifice done by Soldiers and pain of their families which is incomparable and can not be valued in money terms. Think of the mother who kept waiting and waiting for her son to return from War of Kargil, a Wife who had infinite dreams about happy married life, a Father for whom his son was courage and reason to live and a teenager child who did not even understand where his/her father has gone. People don’t even know the names of these brave Soldiers but we know the names of Bollywood celebrities.

Increasing Global Warming is also not less than terrorism for life on earth. What if all of us become aware of the consequences of our action or inaction on Climate and Environment around us. Let’s opt for Eco Friendly modes of transportation, cooking and electricity. In India, in today’s culture Cycles have become the mode of transportation for poor only. Why can’t Cycles be used within Cities and save the climate? Solar Energy is the best resource for cooking and lighting. These small initiatives can lead to paradigm shift in our thinking and lifestyle.

Imagine a situation that everyone is Sports / Adventure freak and believes in Healthy and Happy life. Imagine a situation all workplaces have mandatory workout and fitness guidelines. All of us would be really full of life. Today hardly anyone of us can imagine a situation that if we wish to take a break in workplace, then lets go a play Soccer in office lawn. I would love to see such things happening everywhere in the world.

Education, not everyone is blessed in today’s India as far as Education is concerned. We talk about right to education but ground reality is other way round. Some people to get to study up to fifth Standard and some lucky ones reach till 8^th or 10^th Standard in interiors of India.  The student who pursued study till 5^th Standard has discontinued studies not because he is incapable but because he can not afford beyond it. He has responsibility to run his household on his small shoulders. Till my fifth standards we were five students (out of which one Girl Student). In terms of ranking Girl use to be the topper and then other three boys and I use to be the last one. Girl’s parents could not afford her further studies so had to discontinue her studies at fifth standard. We four boys moved ahead. All of us studied till 8^th standard together when one of us had to leave the studies because of financial matters. Rest two did not continue studies after 10^th Standard. For all of them the reason to not to continue studies was same, Money, Money and Money. My father kept me encouraging to study and I became CA in 2004. When I meet my class mates and look at their life style, it really forces me to think that they deserve much more than what I have got.  They work on Daily Wages and witnesses extremes of weather and lot of other adversities and earn living. Believe me all of them were way ahead of me in studies, but what made them to live this kind of life is the Financial situations and lack of infrastructure. And Situation of current Education systems has not improved to reach to that kind of talent which hiding somewhere in the interiors. I dream a day when all such kind of students gets all amenities they need to build a great nation.

What if Government starts functioning like efficient Private Corporate world? Today’s bigger issues will never be bigger then. Delhi can be prepared for Common Wealth Games in six months, that too at competitive cost. Roads, Bridges and flyovers would never be the matter of discussion and corruption, such things can be built overnight. We will see more and more Technology being used for public dealings.

Dreaming has no limits but making them true or materialize it is not a cakewalk, especially when it comes to issues such Education at wider scope and Terrorism across the world.

It’s been 64^th year of independence for India and we are not at the pace of growth and development which China is on, let’s hope that we will soon move fast of Education, Reduction in Poverty, Nutritious food to all, higher standard of living and prosperity.

Happy Independence Day to You!!