Pvt Ltd Canara Traders &Printers PRINTED BY EDITOR’S NOTE in anewsystemofprocuringbooks An updateontheLibrary:I’vebrought to [email protected]. are welcomeandtobemailed As always,memberarticles to includemoreoftheseinfutureissues. so wewillmakeaconsciouseffort in GNCConnect,especiallyrecipes, for morefoodrelatedarticles the magazine.Therehavebeenrequests of articlesbeingcontributedtowards response frommembersbyway SL.NO 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 MR.S.SUBRAMANIAN MR.P.S.SRINIVAS MR.K.V.B.PRASAD MR.S.MAHESH MR.A.GANESAN MR.K.P.BALAKUMAR SARRANGAN MR.ASHOK MR.R.V.GOPALAN MR.V.LAKSHMAN MR.B.VENKATESH NAME increased we’re seeing happy that and I’mvery its thirdissue is nowinto GNC Connect MEMBERS, DEAR LIST OFCOMMITTEEMEMBERSFOR2014-16 S195 S243 P127 M151 G134 B103 A129 G164 L102 V101 M.NO KP Balakumar –CommitteeMember Ashok Sarrangan,Honorary Secretary Magazine, Library, PRAndWebsite COMMITTEE MEMBERBAR COMMITTEE COMMITTEE MEMBERCATERINGCOMMITTEE HOUSE ANDBANQUET MAINTENANCE, PROJECT, GUEST MEMBER COMMITTEE ENTERTAINMENT MEMBER COMMITTEE COMMITTEE MEMBERSPORTS COMMITTEE HON.SECRETARY HON.TREASURER VICE PRESIDENT PRESIDENT PORTFOLIO WEBSITE &MAGAZINE MEMBERCOMMITTEE PR, LIBRARY opened afewweeksback. has takenshapeandbeenformally the Children’sPlayArea, the longawaitedadditiontoclub, Finally, I’mveryhappytosharethat and willbeactionedupon. (also availablewiththeLibrarian) can beenteredintothesuggestionbook to asktheLibrarian.Your suggestions a fewsuggestions,donothesitate like togothroughthislistandmake books arepurchased.Ifmemberswould on theirrecommendation, then gooverthislistandbased and afewregularsattheLibrary Members ofthesubcommittee at thestartofeverymonth. are receivedfromtwosuppliers popular booksformembers&children our readersinterests.Listsofnew/ that thebookspurchasedreflect on amonthlybasistoensure Managing Editor PUBLISHER 02 9840720728 8144415106 9444088158 9384824333 9840267405 9940025110 9444422444 9884239590 9884092480 242337357 9884019021 CON. NOS Library andPR Member inCharge:Magazine,Website, KP Balakumar–(B103) Best Regards, this veryclassymagazine. House, forputtingtogether for theirarticlesandtoEdgeDesign to allthecontributorsGNCConnect Thank you,onceagain, friends haveagreattime. will ensurethatyourkidsandtheir treats fromourClubKitchen than GNC–afunplayarea+tasty you won’thavetolookmuchfurther a birthdaypartyforyourchild, And thenexttimeyouthinkofhosting to spendtimeattheclub. utilised andencouragingmorefamilies look forwardtohavingthefacilitywell This wasoneofourpetprojectsandwe EDGE DESIGN HOUSE [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] subashproperties@gmail. Com [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] EMAIL ID DESIGNED BY

BANANA | VBJ | 118

SECRETARY SPEAKS

responsibilities or reshuffled of 4th Main Road is restricted only folk dances, Oilattam, Karakattam, to fill up vacancies. for Guest House occupancy and for Mailyattam and other stage shows were New recruitments are done only transportation of materials to the Club. purely traditional and spell binding. in case of extreme necessity. The toast of the day was the Songs The recently inaugurated Kids play area rendered by our Children. Website development has been has been a great hit. It’s gladdening There were so many willing kids taken up. New & dynamic website to note that all programs aimed but we had to restrict due to paucity will be shortly launched with a host at participation from children of time. Our sincere apologies of interactive features. and the youth have met with to the disappointed children, The entrance used by the staff tremendous response. we will make it up shortly. is proposed to be shifted from Full credit to the Children & Youth Watch out for invitations. the existing 4th Main road since of our club the New Year Eve, it is creating disturbance to the Guest Christmas; Pongal & Family Nite The FAMILY NITE even held House and also proper security checks celebrations were a resounding success. on February 24th was so different are not being able to be carried out. Photographs published alongside and refreshing. Programs were held The stand out happening of January New Cleaning equipments have Provision for entry for staff would will make us all very happy. for all age groups and the participation & February was the meritorious been purchased. Currently it’s been put Dear Members, be created from the main entrance It encourages us to go ahead and open was fun filled. Tombola, Family quiz, performance of our cricket team to use in full swing at the Guest House of the club and security checks would up the exciting new ideas in Youth club. Fun Games, DISCO Music & dance in all the tournaments participated. and the results are heartening. The General Committee extends be placed at the existing room Pongal Celebrations was a revelation. held on the day, invited interest In the most prestigious Singaram trophy Staff to be trained and to carry out its best thanks to all members that is available in the south west side The color, gaiety, and decorations and participation amongst many our club reached the finals the work in the Club is in the process for their continued support to all (inside compound area). were simply outstanding. members spouses & kids as well. and put up a spirited show of being shortlisted. We hope to reduce the activities of the club. This would ensure that the entrance Performance by professionals rendering, Attractive prizes & gifts were distributed. before going down that too only the human interface by half and thereby Starting from attendance Srividya Mahesh made the event on account of a rain curtailed match. reduction in costs by around 35 to 40%. at the entertainment programs memorable with her compeering. The team also reached the semi finals The member in charge, to usage of facilities & caterings She has been a pillar in all our in four other tournaments. amidst demanding tasks being services, there has been programs and we thank her for Kudos to the team lead by Mahesh, carried out in Maintenance deserves an appreciable increase. the wholehearted support. our entertainment committee member mention for the efforts. Efforts are on to improve the standards To lend greater variety, food menu and Murukesan, a passionate sports of service. It will not be long before has been tailored to suit occasions. enthusiast. Special thanks to all those In the Month of March the Annual it rises to highly satisfactory levels. members, present during the matches Budget for the financial year 2015-16 The enthusiasm to take on development to encourage our team. has to be presented to the General Body activities continues to be on a high. We had the opportunity to meet for its approval. The date for the EGM The pace with which we would have with all our team members for a group has been fixed on 22/03/2015. liked to move on is a little slower. photograph and the Runner up trophy. It’s our sincere request that all members Reason – works are being taken up Their exuberance and confidence come to the EGM and participate and executed without closing facilities was indeed heart warming. in this most important exercise or causing major inconveniences Three cheers to Gandhinagar Club that determines the spending to its usage. We hope to complete most Cricket team. To add more glitter for the entire year. tasks in a similar manner. Do bear with in the coming months, us for minor discomforts. the Sports Committee Member The General Committee is also and his team have planned working on preparing a document By the end of March the Annual to conduct inter Club tournaments on the “Financial status of the club – maintenance of the swimming pool, in , Shuttle Badminton, Challenges and imperatives in the year renovation of conference halls Snooker & billiards. 2020’. Once ready, will be circulated and guesthouse are targeted Sponsors to the event have amongst members for perusal & for completion. As a measure also been identified. discussions and placed before to augment additional revenues the General Body for its decision. and optimize expenditure, It was gladdening to note that members New equipments have been added plans are on to make the restaurant in general are very happy with to the gym. Usage of PDA for Bar & Looking forward to large participation available for private luncheon parties the spreads being given at very Catering Services has been implemented in the EGM to be held for passing on weekdays. Likewise bar services reasonable costs. Response to Sunday in full swing and have started the Annual Budget and in the preparation in the afternoon may be relocated Lunch buffet is encouraging. yielding desired results. of the ‘Financial Document”. since the usage is minimal. Quality of Food in recent times We are working on to introduce the PDA This would help in reduced electricity has gained widespread appreciation for Parcel & Party orders too. Thanks and maintenance costs. Few of the staff and the Committee member in charge is This would eliminate manual KOT Ashok Sarrangan – Secretary are also being given either additional pursuing improvements in Service too. system & help us go on line. (AI29)

06 07 BOOK REVIEW LITERARY TALK

THE BOOKWORM DIARIES

Thanvi Srikant (S563)

It’s been quite a few years since I last read those thrilling lines of mystery from one of my all-time- favourite authors. In a sudden pursuit to relive those childhood days, I walked into our club library only to find what I was looking for, among the latest arrivals. A novel of the Great Dame, Agatha Christie.

The book I picked, named ‘The Monogram Murders’, is written by best- seller Sophie Hannah. Unsure of whether this new author would live up to the standards of the original storyteller, I decided to takemy chances. Here’s an honest review of what this novel delivers.

Like any other, this Hercule Poirot mystery is gripping and extremely fast- paced. (Fast is an understatement. To my own surprise, I finished this book in a record time of five hours!)

THE PLOT: In a very clever manner, differently angled interpretations When three guests are astonishingly the author makes you feel like of the same scene.This feature has found murdered in an identical fashion, an amateur who is completely lost, proved to be both an asset as well as in different floors of the Bloxom Hotel struggling to find a connection the letdown of the book. in London, former detective between the victims, Monsieur Poirot and his friend while the experienced person With too much information Edward Catchpool from the Scotland watches you from a distance. at your disposal, the only way Yard, are called to investigate. onwards, is forwards. Your powers A few plausible suspects and ideas “If you do not consider the unlikeliest to make a doggy ear and close the book, are discussed, but like any of possibilities, you will not be fail repeatedly, as you find yourself other detective story, there arise the best detective you can be”, fighting sleep to know who more questions than answers. says Poirot as he encourages you the murderer is. That is the kind From monogrammed cufflinks located to keep trying, while he’s solved of desperation that the author creates, in the mouths of the victims, the mystery already. I found it very which I found remarkable. to stories of revenge and severed similar to the frustration students often At this juncture, it must be said that this relationships that go back 16 years face while writing a test under the feature fails for the category of readers into the past, the plot is ingenious watchful eyes of a smirking examiner. who are easily confused and impatient. enough to keep the reader on his toes. What makes this story unique is the In an attempt to recreate the original FROM THE CRITIC’S ANGLE: number of clues and facts that present Agatha Christie style, Sophie Hannah Though the entire story is in fact, themselves before you even divulge might have gone a tad overboard, a recollection of events by detective into the periphery of the problem. with her description of Hercule Catchpool, the narrative frequently In a fleeting moment, there are many Poirot’s persona. Nevertheless, appears to shift towards Poirot. characters introduced, many nonchalant credit must be given for choosing Yet, the reader is not biased, words uttered (which you suspect, a mundane plot,but twisting it enough and is made to look at the other will definitely hold some vital piece for you to appreciate the simplicity characters objectively. of information later on), and many of the truth behind it.

08 ART & CULTURE

read the daily newspaper without fail, ragams or Janani Ragams. Considered a heavy ragam in Carnatic, want to know the latest in Mylapore All these 72 have mini ragams derived it has been set beautifully in this song. happenings and prefer early evenings from it....and these are called child Some pieces in the same ragam with an early dinner so they can get up ragams or Janya Ragams. in Carnatic are Nannu vidachi kada early the next day for the same routine. So the possibilities are endless! or Janani ninnu vinaa There are still some who are (both Thyagaraja compositions). The film song listening crowd inventing new ragams to this day on the other hand is more laidback, and Sri Balamuralikrishna, the great When you have the time, like the easy Listening and would singer, has invented quite a few. do google the above songs and listen probably not mind the late night to both the film and the Carnatic songs. because that is when most light music Now, keeping the above in mind, You can then proudly say you events are held in general. let us take a few ragams for starters. have four ragams under your belt! Sankarabaranam: The basic Do Re Me If we were to draw a Venn diagram, of English. If you are familiar with More in the next issue. Do write to me there is a very marginal crowd the movie Sound of Music you would at [email protected] that would come at the intersection, know this song by heart. for any feedback. I do look forward that may like both equally. This is your basic Sankarabaranam, to hearing from you. And, even in that case, the classical which in the literal sense music people would prefer the old-time in Sanskrit means hits of the ’70s rather than appreciate the aabaranam or the jewels the latest Tamil flick hits. of Lord Sankara or Shiva. Why? Because the old-time film hits Some popular songs in Carnatic were mostly classical in nature! in this ragam are Manasu Swadina (Thyagaraja); Akshaya While on the whole it is easy Linga(Dikshidar); for a classical person to understand Saroja Dala Netri film music, the other way around (Shyama Sastri). is difficult. So, how can we try and bridge the gap for those who Kalyani: film songs that would like to go from the film are popular are Amma to the classical music kingdom? endru azaikaadha, janani Well, let us see how we can link janani jagam nee agam nee, some tunes from the film to some kalaivaaniye unnai taane arule. tunes from the classical and do Do hum it and see if you can sing ‘match the following’. this. You can make out THE BASE FOR FILM MUSIC IS CARNATIC the similarity in the tunes In classical music, we have some of these film songs. important ragams. What are ragams? Some popular Kalyani numbers Mrs. Sowmya Kumar Arjun (A105) Why is film music so popular I always do, be it a classical music They are the basic notes that form in Carnatic are nidhi chaala sukhama and why is Carnatic not mass? concert, a light music programme a tune. There are 7 basic notes (Thyagaraja); birana vara lichi The writer links popular songs from Well, aren’t all classical arts elite? or an English ’80s music show in Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Da Ni. (Shayama Sastri); unnai allal vera gathi the movies to their classical roots. But, then, some ask, why can’t we at Museum Theatre and so on. In English music Do Re Me Fa So La Ti. (Papanasam Sivan). Read on to make the connect make it more mass? Then the classical The audiences are very different. In that while the S and P are constant aspect goes, doesn’t it? It becomes Why? What differentiates them? and do not change (English: Do and So), Vasanta: a happy ragam, Before I know, it’s time for the next too clichéd. We don’t want everything the others have variations. literally meaning spring in Sanskrit, issue! I got some feedback that a few classical to be understood The below is entirely my opinion only. Think of the black keys in the piano/ has a beautiful film song wanted to know about how film music by the masses. We want to keep Sometimes, Carnatic music audiences keyboard. So for the other notes, andhi mazhai pozhigiradhu. connects with classical, a few about something a secret where only have a know-it-all attitude. we have 3 each of the R, G & D A Diskhidar song, instruments, while others wanted a few of the audience would discern They would like to convey that ‘I follow and 2 each of the M, N. Ramachandram Bhavayaami , me to continue with the next and say sabash! The others would look Carnatic music, I follow an elite art.’ a Purandara Dasa song aama raama in the traditional arts: dance. around at that knowledgeable mama If I were to dissect these people, Just imagine the number adds to the beauty of the Vasanta. or maami with newfound respect! I would say they are those who of permutations and combinations Sowmya Kumar Arjun is a Carnatic music So to sort of continue with the chain have a certain discipline in their daily possible! There are ragams with all Reethigowlai: A more recent favourite vocalist / Bharatanatyam dancer of thought I will write about how one Have you ever observed the audience routine as well, drink their morning 7 notes up and 7 notes down. of mine, kangal irundal from the movie & runs a gallery, Chaya, with her mother, can make the connect with film music. in any entertainment programme? tumbler of coffee, go for a walk, And these are called Melakartha Subramaniyapuram is set which combines their passion Ragams. They are known as the mother in the ragam Reethigowlai. for traditional arts and creativity)

10 11 EVENTS PONGAL CELEBRATION AT GNC

12 13 ENCOUNTER EVENTS CHEF’S CORNER

CHEESE PESTO ROLL

Rashmee Gopalan (R296)

INGREDIENTS: • Roll the dough into a rough rectangle using a rolling pin. (MAKES 8 ROLLS) Apply flour to prevent sticking. The rolled out dough Plain Flour(maida)- 3 cups must be at least half inch thick. Warm Water- 1 cup • Apply a thin ,even layer of pesto sauce on it. Sprinkle olives. Active dry Yeast- 1tbps • Roll it and cut it into two equal parts and further cut Salt - 1tsp the two parts into two, so that you get 4 equal rolls. Sugar- 2 tbps • Now place the rolls with the cut side up in the greased pan. Extra Virgin Olive Oil- 2-3 tbps • Repeat the same procedure for the remaining dough. Grated cheese – 1cup • Apply the balance pesto on top and apply milk. Pesto sauce – 1cup Sprinkle grated cheese and sesame seeds (optional) Black sliced olives-1cup • Allow to proof for another 20 minutes. Milk –few teaspoons • In the mean time preheat the oven to 180 degree C. Sesame seeds – few teaspoons • Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown Butter – to grease pans • Allow to cool and serve.

METHOD: TIP: Bread making involves a lot of technique • Proof the yeast in the warm water to which in the kneading of the dough. Do watch U-tube videos sugar has been added. It should bubble and froth on how to knead dough for bread. after 5-10 minutes. If it hasn’t, start all over again with new yeast. PESTO SAUCE • Add this to the rest of the ingredients and knead till you get a smooth dough .The dough should spring back INGREDIENTS: when you press with your finger. Basil leaves - 2 cups (Add flour ,a cup at a time.`If the dough is too sticky, Walnuts – 1 cup add some more flour,if the dough is too dry, Garlic – 4 pods add more water or oil) Olive oil – ¼ cup • Apply oil to a large vessel and allow to rise Parmesan cheese – 3 tbsp for 40-45 minutes. At the end of this, Salt and pepper to taste the dough will be double its initial size. • Knock down the air in the dough and divide METHOD: the dough into two equal portions. Pulse together all ingredients to a smooth paste in a blender. • Grease a baking pan or loaf tin with butter.

14 15 ACHIEVEMENTS MEMBER ACHIEVEMENTS

In the REGATTA NIGHT held by Royal Madras Yacht Club, on 24th January 2015, our members and children had participated and won 2nd prize.

Capt.Vivek Shanbhag V312 Mr.Abhishek Karthikeyan K263 Mr.Sundara Krishnan S729.

16 YOUNG ACHIEVER

point in my career and has taught CC: You began your training CC: Finally, what words of advice me to a lot. in , trained outside the country, would you give to our budding tennis ACES ALL CC: Tennis, like any other sport isn’t and then enrolled into the University champs at GNC? just about physical fitness, of Washington, Seattle on a Tennis JN: Tennis is a very good career option, but is also about being mentally sharp Scholarship. Now being a role model if you genuinely enjoy the sport THE WAY! and prepared. How do you beat all for many youngsters in , and develop your talent. You will find of this, and nervousness on the day in what ways do you think opportunities to meet people and learn INTERVIEW WITH of an important match? the training system for tennis from them, travel to new places, Jeevan Nedunchezhiyan JN: Everyone gets nervous. in our country can improve? and be financially secure too. It’s completely natural. JN: During my undergrad in Seattle, It’s a fruitful experience. The trick is to accept it and channel I was pursuing a Major in Comparative After all, it’s the journey that matters the energy into giving your best for History of Ideas (CHID) and also and not the destination. the game. If you still can’t fight it, representing the University Thanvi Srikant (S563) sportstar, Jeevan Nedunchezhiyan, going to pursue higher studies, go through your routine normally, in tennis tournaments. With lectures tells Club Connect about his journey so far, I was keen on achieving great heights and don’t think about the outcome. for a few hours in the morning Be it a weekday or a weekend, and why tennis gives him happiness. in my tennis career. CC: 2014 saw you reach your all-time and training sessions in the afternoon, our club’s tennis courts are always CC: For any sportsperson, the losses high ATP rank in both the singles I could balance both efficiently. occupied by enthusiasts of all ages, CC: When did your passion teach you more than the wins. (293) and doubles (240) categories. Matt Anger, my coach there, clearly a sign of how much the sport for tennis begin? How did it change Do you agree? How excited were you on receiving truly cared for me and trained me means to us. It might surprise you from a hobby to a career option? JN: Definitely. I still remember playing a wild card to play for the Aircel well. Unfortunately, we lack tennis to know that one of our own members JN: I was five years old when my a tournament in Indonesia when Chennai Open last year? Do share your academies and dedicated coaches, is representing the Indian Squad grandfather introduced me to the game. I was 14. I was among the chosen few experience with us. in India. Even the few centres which MORE ABOUT JEEVAN for the today. As I grew older and was coached, from Asia, and was competing to get JN: Yes, it was a great opportunity offer training, cannot transform you I began enjoying the game. selected for international tournaments. to play singles and doubles as well. from a fierce competitor A tennis player he’s inspired by: At 26, he has won several ITF Mens-Pro At 11, I took it seriously enough It was a lot of pressure, and I lost in My partner Balaji and I, put up a tough to a professional player. Lleyton Hewitt Circuit titles and was even selected to compete professionally. the quarterfinals after a close match. fight against the second seeds, but lost With the immense talent that we have, Hobbies: Movies, gaming, to play at the Aircel Chennai Open last After my 10th grade, I was qualified In my zeal to win and reach a certain the match. Though I focus more on my it would be really great to see spending time with friends year. Currently ranked 260 (doubles) to play for ITF Juniors (International level, I had forgotten how passionate singles game, I’ve started developing an organised system emerge. A sport he’s eager to learn: Golf and 380 (singles) by ATP, this talented tennis tournaments). Though I was I was about the game.It was a turning an interest for doubles too now.

18 19 TRAVEL

Did Andal actually marry the Cholas reign. Mammoth gopurams Sri Ranganathar in this temple standing 20-30 ft tall, perfectly leaves you wanting for more out symmetrical, not casting a shadow, of these pilgrimage spots. covered with intricate carvings of gods, nature and common man make Crowds – both tourists, us ponder on so many realities historians with scientific temper that time throws at us. and devotees immersed in devotion throng the thresholds of the temple Equipped with knowledge and fertile leaving the administration at sea imagination beyond “modern day and us with some bitter sweet moments. gadgets” the sculptors and architects However the darshan of the presiding breathed life into every piece deity wipes out all the tirades of chiselled rock. I could not help you may have stood up to in seconds. but wonder while we snapped Call it positive energy within and whatsapped images, the sanctum, power of the unknown, these pieces of art brimming achieving what you set out with life from lifeless stones have to accomplish or simply bhakthi - stood the test of time, invasions, the feeling of completeness is felt cultural transformations, juvenile by one and all exiting the premises. graffiti and much more. History says that the civilization Thiruvanaikkaval, Brihadeeshwara, brought artisans from South East Asia Trichy Rockfort temple complex, and across the country of India together Tanjore palace stand witness to tales which is reflected in the styles adopted of saivism sweeping the region during and blended in perfect harmony.

THE GREAT TEMPLES OF TANJORE (TANJORE - TRICHY)

Anuradha Prashant (P242) So this December, we planned a trip Covering the temple towns to the great temples of the Chola reign of SriRangam, Thiruvanaikaval, For the last two years, every night across Tiruchirapalli and Tanjore. Samayapuram, Tanjore, Trichy, when I read a story to my 6 year old son, Covering the prominent ones just and the musical abode of Thiruvaiyar I would try and describe the visual to get a glimpse of the wonders that in 3 days was indeed a farfetched beauty of the Chera, Chola and Pallava were created more than 1000 years ago. cry from resort bound vacations reign in . A child friendly that wev were used to. homemade oral version of Ponniyan My son was excited about getting selviyan, Narasimha Pallavar on to the train. (That he is an ardent train The mysticism of Indian mythology and the realization of a great lover would only be an understatement). lies in the magical blend of mysticism dream - Parthiban Kannavu was simply I was excited about getting back with reality. Huge temple complexes not enough to kindle the visual imagery with my spouse and child surrounded by fort towns resplendent in the mind of a child reared on picnic to an enjoyable phase of my in their timeless grandeur exist drives along OMR, ECR and resort student days – Trichy. And so we left as testimonials to tales of mythology. hotels parading as remnants for Trichy by Rockfort express The feeling of -could it have of the great heritage. one Thursday night. all really happened?

20 21 TRAVEL

A JOURNEY TO THE EDGE OF THE WORLD Marathas took over the Chola dynasty game of cricket outside a stone structure years across the streets of Tanjore. and developed a unique identity that has given the world a religion Yes, there are always issues THOUGH BLEAK, GLOOMY AND RAW, through Saurashtrainism which thrives sans caste, creed -music. ICELAND HAS ITS OWN STARK BEAUTY FOR THE WRITER till date. The thread of the linkage Looking at the idol of Rama, of restoration, preservation to other cultures is evident in a number one could almost hear the great saint and promotion of these magnificent of tourists of South East Asian origin call out to him -”Nagumomu Ganale…“ structures. The people could be Zoyab A Kadi (Z 101) with large patches of rumpled, locally almost everybody is related and Maharashtra visiting these parts more enlightened and civic while bilious greenery. This is volcanic to everybody else, which on the surface as a part of their ancestral linkage. The taste of Tanjore is incomplete visiting. Littering, etching their names As the plane touches down country and it is the black lava, appears to be a great thing. without a mention about the cuisine. on walls of historical significance, at the Keflavik International Airport, solidified over centuries, But with weddings amongst blood The highlight of the trip was Full three course meals laden jostling, fighting, bribing – well we the view through the window is dull, that give visitors their first taste relations — a sort of inbreeding — the stopover at Thiruvaiyar - literally with traditional sweets, could behave better in the name gloomy and disheartening. of what to expect. But here is a country declared illegal, finding a marriage translated means confluence of 5 varieties of chutneys and pickles, of a civilized society. There are no trees, plants or greenery that has vaulted itself to the top partner has become a major national rivers. Half expecting the great saint the hallmark of a tanjorian, The administration could do with anywhere; no houses, no people, of the charts as one of the richest pastime; with even the Government Thiagaraja’s Samadhi to be closed was served to perfection a bit more concern for preserving no signs of life; just a black, in the world — all within a period pitching in with a software mobile app for darshan, we were pleasantly greeted on plantain leaves. than merely earning. uninviting and godforsaken landscape of 60 odd years. Having detached itself to determine who is related to whom. by the serene almost empty temple The hygiene – Oh yes! Less said — the kind that raises doubts from Denmark in 1944, on the banks of the river Cauvery. Boarding the train that night, the better. But what remains whether coming to Iceland it has used its natural resources — In spite of increasing affluence, This is the place where the great saint my son could now name temple untarnished is the fact that history was a mistake after all. But, very soon fishing, sheep farming, better literacy and global exposure, went into Samadhi. The idol of Lord silhouettes etched in the darkness continues to silently shine through the efficient airport staff dispels some energy and tourism — so judiciously Icelanders have endearingly retained Rama, who he worshipped with a of the night by their gopurams. these dark spots calling out to us of those doubts and make sure that that there is neither unemployment some of their traditional beliefs showering of krithis, is kept in an abode He has his favourites now to relive the times. As the train pulled the welcome, though not on nor any poverty. Having a small, and superstitions — as this little vibrating with his melodies. in Brihadeeshwara followed out of Tiruchirapalli junction the lines a red-carpet, is sincere and genuine. manageable population has obviously anecdote will suggest. The annual festival that draws by Thiruvanaikkaval and Srirangam. between mythology, fiction, helped. But this meagre demography Just outside Reykjavik is a monstrous worshippers of music converges As I completed the story of Raja Raja history and time converged yet again. On the way to the capital city, has a tragicomic side as well. aluminium factory with American here in January. For now, the place Chozhan ‘s dream run of conquests , Reykjavik, about 50 kms away, Spread out thinly over the Island collaboration. When plans were had a small team of boys playing their his eyes visualized the kings of yester To more such travels in India! Clink! the dismal landscape continues, in natty little towns, villages and farms, being drawn up, the local investors

22 23 end of Road 285’, it meant the 85th road, off Highway 1, in Region 2 and you were there. Self-driven car for transport and lonely, isolated farms for night halts are the best ways to experience the many sights of Iceland. Packing enough eatables and drinks is essential, because what is available en route may either be too expensive or not to one’s taste. Besides it saves a lot of valuable sight seeing time. With six more days to cover a loop of 1,500 kms, there was ample time to set my own pace and to interact with the locals, most of whom, thankfully, could converse in English. As for the local language, unless you have done your homework well, it’s no use trying to pronounce or read any of the local sign boards.

To give a descriptive narration of the landscape is a task far beyond The fjords on the eastern seaboard — As the loop turns westwards at the little with just their chimneys sticking my limited capacity. forming extremely beautiful silhouettes town of Egillastdir (the Eastern capital), out as exhaust. There is a faint whiff All I can throw at the reader are little if you catch them in the early and travels inland, the landscape of sulphur in the air. teasers and vignettes of the constantly morning sunlight — are nowhere changes drastically. Up close, there is an overpowering changing, and variety of the landscape, as intimidating or treacherous as feeling of dread as if the earth were with some photographs to add their those on the western side. But it was Ascending through a lightly forested breathing beneath your feet and weight and to make up for a handicap. exhilarating driving through them. area we are atop a plateau and into exhaling angry and futile jets of water It is not very well known that Europe’s What wasn’t fun though, was that volcanic country. The clouds begin like a chained dragon. only desert is here, covering about the driving surface would change at to darken in strange random patches, Like most European countries, a fifth of the island. irregular intervals from smooth tarred as if unable to decide where to pour Iceland has just learnt the trick The landscape, as you drive east, road to a pebbly gravely track whose their deluge.What initially looked like of cashing in on some of its traditions, doesn’t let you forget that. material attacked the car with such impending rain clouds, turned out history and culture. Why not make There is copious rain, snow and plenty adhesive ferocity that it required three to be volcanic gas emissions from money out of its folklores about elves of rivers and lakes; but the hard black washes to get it all off. long dormant craters, and trolls! Why not claim that European lava rocks just refuse to yield to any (Luckily self-help car washes are many of which are accessible after history from the French Revolution developed cold feet and wanted But to soak in the city’s atmosphere, form of useful or productive life. available free of charge at all fuel stops). long strenuous climbs and through onwards would have been completely the site to be examined for the presence an extra day is well worth Driving solo through this hazy bone-chilling winds. I wouldn’t have different, if its volcanoes had not of elves, fondly called the legendary the expense. Iceland is divided into and murky landscape, known about the emissions were spewed ashes and dust across Europe! ‘Little Invisible People’, eight administrative regions that have with poor visibility, feeble mobile it not for a Belgian student hitch hiker Sounds far-fetched but who wants whom they didn’t want to displace. no names, but are numbered from two signals and with not a soul in sight, to whom I had given a lift. to spoil their party! After many incredulous arguments to nine. Its main highway, was an eerie experience. Akuriyeri (the northern capital) On the final stretch, Highway One dives and much cajoling a local consultant numbered one, runs right around Further east are the majestic is the second largest city, into a tunnel under the Hvalfjorour was employed who finally gave the island, and cuts through all ice sheets that cover another fifth with a laughable population of a mere Fjord for about seven kms and comes the green signal, (and probably laughed the eight regions, forming a loop of the island. Inching down the 17,000; but sprawling luxuriously over out almost within touching distance his way to the bank). of approximately 1,500 Kms. mountains, like tired snakes, an area very disproportionate of the capital. The journey ends Reykjavik, the capital, mercifully, Most of the farms, resorts, villages these glaciers are a grim and alarming to its demography. from where it began — from is a small city. All its major sights and towns branch off from this highway. reminder of the damage that humanity From here on, Highway One gently a car rental showroom. — the Lutheran Church, the View Point, The numbering of the branch roads is inflicting upon the environment. starts turning south, back towards And as I try to recap the essence the Saga Museum, the lake & town hall, is so simple (and sensible) that even Like the rest of the World, the Icelanders Reykjavik. It is now the turn of my tour to Iceland, the main shopping streets, the University, a newcomer like me didn’t need don’t really know what to do of bubbling spas, warm springs there is a realisation that this is no place the water front — can all be easily covered the services of a GPS to locate a lonely or how to reverse the trend and shooting jets of steam. for tomfoolery with nature. by foot in a single day. (In September, farm in the middle of nowhere. and are waiting for initiatives Some of them give the impression You come; contest with it at your own the sun sets around 8.15 PM). If address given was ‘Farm Steig, to come from elsewhere. of factories buried underground risk and capacity; admire it and leave.

24 25 ENVIRONMENT

develop deteriorating or often in a city. The waste is usually collected with ‘value’. But the melting non-existent back end infrastructure from street dustbins by big Corporation is physically done by people without (access to piped water, trucks and transported to a local any safety equipment connection to the sewage network transfer site where there is (sometimes) and are thus exposed to numerous and so on) without which the mission basic sorting of waste after which toxic gases. All this to create value cannot succeed. As a recent Supreme it is taken to a dumpsite. from plastic waste! Court judgement pointed out, In the midst of this process, “without any fear of contradiction, the contribution of waste pickers To conclude, waste management a toilet in structure only is not in diverting waste from landfills and sanitation are important issues a toilet in reality”. The new Swach is irreplaceable although they work which are complex and without a single Bharat Mission – Gramin guidelines in inhumane conditions and are not solution. Swachh Bharat Abhiyan does does not have any clause formally/legally recognised. not seem to be any different from older which mandates construction of toilets This is where the SWACH initiative related government projects. with water and sewer facilities before in comes in. What we need to do is to look at these release of funds. In this context, SWACH (Solid Waste Collection issues from a life cycle perspective SBM is no different from and Handling Cooperative) stands which traces out all the causes the erstwhile NBA or the Total out as an innovative and distinctive and effects of building a toilet Sanitation Campaign before it. Public Private Partnership for its work (for example) and all that come with Over 97m toilets have been built since in improving management of solid especially in this case - management 2001 using public funds and it remains waste and explicitly enhancing the lives of water resources. to be seen how SBM results will differ of waste pickers and their families. The approach to waste management from its predecessors. also requires a life cycle approach We can only hope that implementing A key component in waste management and should be more decentralised authorities regularly monitor is segregating the waste at source and community managed rather and evaluate its performance (this is cliché but sometimes than the current centralised system. in practice so that future governments clichés are good!) and keeping Why? The characteristics of waste THOUGHTS ON SANITATION will not make the same mistakes. the segregation through till disposal. of each community/group of people This is important because food is very different from the next group AND WASTE MANAGEMENT Moving to domestic waste management, waste – which is often wet – when and in order to get the maximum it is important to note that our law mixed with plastics and other possible value (monetary or not) differentiates different types of wastes non-biodegradable waste, out of the waste smaller quantities (e-waste, battery, bio medical and plastic) increases the cost (time/monetary) are easier to handle/manage. by way of collection, transportation, of treatment and disposal of the latter. Also, integration of the waste picker Akshaya Ayyangar (P193) (I touch upon this later on in the article). that the economic impact of inadequate treatment and disposal. Also, the monetary value in this process (as in the case of Pune) Where does the garbage thrown water supply and sanitation was This framework perhaps needs of the both types of wastes is relatively easier and beneficial The slogan of our government has been in millions of dustbins across approximately 6.4% of GDP in 2006. to be revisited as domestic waste is tremendous if handled separately. to both - communities and the latter. on investing in infrastructure since their the country finally end up? typically contains all these wastes Food waste can be further sorted So scaling up in this case is not a solution. inception in May 2014. Over the past Who are involved in this process? There are two components and yet is not treated separately. and made into compost and sold few months, there has been increased What are the potential solutions to Swachh Bharat – urban and rural – For e.g. old cds, bulbs, batteries, to farmers and horticulturalists. You may ask ‘what can I do as an focus on sanitation, waste management to this predicament? the former is applicable to all syringes, sanitary napkins, Non – biodegradable wastes individual to address this issue?’ and proving basic services like water, These are some questions ‘Statutory towns1’ while the latter, diapers and plastics in various forms, can be sorted into many categories, Frankly, I think nothing! Think about it roads, housing etc. through the active I try to elucidate (and hope they Swachh Bharat Mission – Gramin from food packaging to stationery the broadest categories being glass, – in a county of 1.2 billion people, promotion of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan intrigue you as well) in this article. (SBM-G), is a revised version are discarded in most houses. paper, tins, plastic, electronics etc. what impact can you (individually) and the Smart Cities Policy. of the Nirmal Bharat Abhiyan (NBA). Domestic waste eventually ends Some kinds of non-biodegradable make by composting your kitchen waste Swachh Bharat, introduced Swachh Bharat is perhaps There does not seem to be any drastic up in “landfills” (these are more wastes are very difficult to dispose in Adyar, Chennai? by PM Modi on Gandiji’s birthday the most publicised infrastructure change between the NBA gigantic heaps of waste than landfills) safely, for e.g. the filament of a tube Therefore, I come back to the role last year commenced with creating programme of the government and its successor, apart from minor on the outskirts of the city light and low grades of plastics of the community. More people involved awareness on waste and sanitation for very good reasons. changes in the implementation strategy. (Pallikarnai marsh and Kodangaiyur which have no monetary value – greater the impact. management by promoting construction According to the 2011 Census, In essence, both aim at achieving are the official ones in Chennai) for recycling. On another note, On this note I do have an idea which of toilets and the ‘ice-bucket challenge’ 67% of rural households defecate an ‘open defecation free’ India through contaminating the local environment, having said that recycling is a good the GNC committee may consider. like drive to upload videos of people in the open and the UNICEF estimates massive awareness campaigns particularly the groundwater and air. thing, I think we ought to look more We could probably start-off with some cleaning the streets on social media. Yet, that India accounts for 60% in the hope of inducing behavioural The local government, in Chennai - closely at its process before we come kind of waste management system there is much more to sanitation and of the world’s open defecation. change in rural inhabitants so that the Corporation, usually in partnership to a conclusion. For instance, for the club itself with source waste management than merely Naturally the health implications they the need to construct toilets. with a private contractor are in charge in the case of plastic recycling, segregation, composting and so on creating awareness. Besides, the “SWACH” of this is tremendous – it is estimated One striking limitation of this strategy is of waste collecting, transporting, most recyclable plastics are melted and build this into a community project concept already exists in Pune (by the Water and Sanitation Programme) perhaps the insignificant value given to treating and disposing the waste and turned into pellets or products organised by GNC? 1 Statutory towns are urban areas which are defined by administrative units like Municipal Corporation, town panchayats etc. 26 27 LIBRARY

Angie Sage Neil Gaiman The Complete Panchatantra LINCOLN PEIRCE J Krishnamurti Peter Sander Bignate In The Zone Bignate On Pathfinder Hansel & Gretel Omnibus (67 Stories With Classic Big Nate The World Within - You Are The 100 Best Stocks To The Roll (Graphic Novel) Illustrations) (Laugh -O-Rama) The Story Of Humanity Buy In 2015

Tony Abbott Namita Gokhale Sergey Brin David Davidar The Copernicus Legacy Travelling In, Travelling Out The Google Boys A Clutch Of Indian Matthew Reiley Steve Berry Jack Higgins Michael Connelly (The Serpents Curse) (A Book Of Unexpected Journeys) Master Pieces The Great Zoo Of China The Lincoln Myth The Death Trade The Burning Room

OTHER BOOKS:

Geronimo Stilton The Missing Diary Geronimo Stilton Drama At Mouseford Ruskin Bond The Room Of Many Colours Fali S. Nariman Alan C Fox Mihir S. Sharma Aatish Taseer Robert Ludlum The Bourne Ascendancy The State Of The Nation People Tools Restart (The Last Chance The Way Things Were Geronimo Stilton Harlan Coben Missing You For The Indian Economy) The Search For Treasure Clive Cussler Havana Storm Harlan Coben Found Vinod Mehta Editor Unplugged (Media, Magnates, Netas & Me) Deepak Chopra The Future Of God Himanjali Sankar Talking Of Muskaan Upamanyu Chatterjee Fairy Tales At Fifty Sophie Kinsella Shopaholic To The Stars (Hollywood Here She Comes) Rachel Rence Russell Dork Diaries Once Upon A Dork Devdutt Pattanaik Pashu Devdutt Pattanaik Fun In Devlok Omnibus Shashi Tharoor Tulsi Badrinath Rashmi Bansal Javier Moro James Patterson Homeroom Diaries India Shastra (Reflections Madras, Chennai And The Self - Arise, Awake The Red Sari - A Dramatized Geronimo Stilton Pranab Mukherjee The Dramatic Decade On The Nation In Our Time) Conversations With The City (The Inspiring Stories Of 10 Biography Of Sonia Gandhi Thea Stilton Ravi Sbramanian God Is A Gamer Young Entrepreneurs) The SecretOf The Snow Timeri N Murari Chanakya Returns

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