Mansa Devi Panchkula , near Chandigarh

 In the summer holidays, we visited the Mansa Devi Temple, located in the picturesque area of Panchkula. It is about 12 km from Zirakpur and is a truly beautiful place. According to ancient beliefs, when Parvati Ji decided to sacrifice her life as Sati in the yajna, her head fell to earth where the Mansa Devi Temple now stands in Panchkula.

We booked an Uber and journeyed to the temple. There was not much rush, allowing us to have a peaceful and comfortable darshan. The temple offers langar 24 hours a day. The langar, considered prasad, is incredibly delicious, featuring a variety of dishes such as rice, maani (kari with pakoras), black chana, and sometimes halwa, and halwa kadu ki meethi sabji. The food is very tasty and is available round the clock. There is a spacious hall where people sit on the floor to enjoy their meal/prasad. Additionally, there are some chairs and tables for elderly people who cannot sit on the floor.

We attended the evening aarti, which was attended by many devotees. It had a captivating and uplifting atmosphere with positive vibes and a magnetic effect that dispelled negativity and instilled positivity in our minds. All the family members felt very happy and blessed, receiving the blessings of Almighty God for progress in the coming years.

Safar from Chandigarh to Hyderabad

 We had to travel to Hyderabad from Chandigarh. We reserved our railway tickets on the Shatabdi Express three months in advance, anticipating a smooth and comfortable journey. However, it turned out to be a roller coaster ride and a memorable adventure.

From our society, we booked a seven-seater uber cab – a spacious one – with ample legroom and enough space for all five family members: three teenagers and two adults. Each of us had a 15 kg suitcase, a handbag, and one extra, hefty food bag, bursting at the seams. If it had been a person, it would have been pitifully complaining.

We reached the railway station an hour early and waited in the bustling waiting hall. When the train arrived, we all hopped on. The train was scheduled to reach Delhi at 3:25 pm but was over an hour late, arriving at 4:30 pm. After that, we headed to the metro station.

All our luggage – five 15 kg suitcases, five 7 kg bags, two purses, and the heavy food bag – had to be scanned. There was a lot of hustle and bustle, with separate lines for males and females. We bought tickets to Aerocity, Delhi, for Rs. 50 each. Later, we learned we needed to take a shuttle for Rs. 40 each. We purchased the shuttle tickets and trudged to the bus stop with our heavy luggage.

On 28th May, the temperature in Delhi soared to a scorching 52.6 degrees Celsius. The situation was pathetic: only one shuttle bus was available, making round trips to the airport. We stood in the sweltering heat for about half an hour without any shade. Taxi drivers offered to take us for Rs. 100 per head, suggesting we return the bus tickets. It seemed like collusion between the cab drivers and the ticket seller, as it was a government-run shuttle service. Two other buses stood roadside, deemed out of order by the caretaker, leaving just one functioning bus. He suggested we take a taxi if we were in a hurry.

Just as we were losing hope, a bus finally arrived, bringing a sigh of relief. We boarded and reached the airport in 25 minutes. The ride was bumpy, and the driver initially struggled to start the bus.

After rushing through the security check, we finally relaxed upon boarding the plane. Upon reaching our destination, Hyderabad, we collected our luggage, exited the airport at 11:30 pm, booked an Uber, and headed home.

Thus, our long journey, starting at 8:30 am and ending at 1 am, was thrilling, memorable, and filled with incidents that added to our experience.

Visit to Lachiwala Park, North India

 Lachiwala Park, located in Doiwala on the way to Jolly Grant International Airport, is a beautiful and serene nature park that attracts visitors from all nearby regions. The park's main attractions include a centrally flowing river and numerous fountains. It is a sprawling park featuring a diverse variety of trees and plants.

The entry fee is Rs 80 for adults, and there is an additional fee of Rs 50 for cars. Many visitors also arrive by e-rickshaw. Inside the park, there is a picturesque driveway stretching about 2 to 3 kilometers, which many prefer to explore by car. The park provides a dedicated parking area. Additionally, there is a designated space for swimming where people can relax and have fun. Several shops near the swimming area offer swimming supplies. This area is located just outside and parallel to the nature park's entrance.

However, the park does have a few drawbacks. While there is one ice cream shop that also sells cakes and other items, and another eatery, the latter's pungent smell can be off-putting. As a result, many visitors prefer to bring their own food, which is allowed in the park. Enhanced dining options within the park would greatly improve the visitor experience. Atleast they can come hands-free to the park and enjoy the stroll inside the park.

The park features many heart-shaped entrances and charming wooden bridges, perfect for posing and taking photos. Visitors often make reels and short videos for Instagram. Numerous sitting areas are available for relaxation, allowing visitors to walk and enjoy the park's beauty. There is also a dedicated play area for children. Strolling and spending time in the park provides a sense of peace and tranquility that is enjoyed by both the young and the elderly.

Visit to Haridwar

 Travel to Haridwar is a sacred Hindu pilgrimage and is visited by lakhs of devotees every year. People visit here as it is one of the important dhams out of the four dhams in Hinduism. There are many temples in Haridwar – the famous ones being Vaishno Devi Temple and Sureshwari Devi Temple. These temples are located in the picturesque Shivalik Hills and are frequented by many devotees. The Sureshwari Devi Temple, in particular, is near the Rajaji Tiger Reserve. During the rainy season and colder months, visitors can often see wildlife such as the majestic neelgai, elephants, and other animals along the way.

The River Ganga is a sacred river in Hinduism. People come to take a holy dip in the river at Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar, believing that this act washes away all their sins. Many people from all over the world visit to pray for their well-being, health, and prosperity.

Haridwar has also become a popular tourist destination, and many eateries have opened up to cater to the visitors. Famous food joints like Chotiwala's, Bahubali Samosa, and various stalls selling cuisines such as Chinese and local delicacies like kulfi are popular among tourists.

Additionally, a variety of ornaments such as bangles, rings, and necklaces are sold here, along with different types of keychains that attract children. Near Har Ki Pauri, there is a 1.5 km stretch of road lined with shops offering various clothes, ornaments, and eateries. This area is a pedestrian zone, restricted to all electric and other vehicles, so people, young and old alike, walk through this vibrant and bustling market.

One of the most beautiful and serene experiences in Haridwar is the Ganga Aarti, which brings peace and tranquility to the mind. The Ganga Aarti takes place in the morning and evening, and people visit Haridwar specifically to witness this peaceful and spiritual ritual.

Schools in and around Financial District

 

AVN Vida International School, a CBSE-affiliated school, focuses on the holistic development of its students, encompassing personal, physical, and academic growth. The school allocates ample time for sports activities to enhance students' participation. The annual tuition fee amounts to approximately 1.5 lakhs per student, with additional optional charges for the mess. The mess fee covers breakfast, lunch, and snacks for a nominal fee of forty thousand. Transport fees vary depending on the distance, starting at forty thousand for distances within 5 kilometres.

The quality of education provided is commendable, with students receiving regular homework, assignments, and internal assessments based on classroom activities and projects. The school boasts a spacious campus adorned with lush trees, promoting an environmentally friendly atmosphere. Notably, many students residing in Mantri Celestia opt to enrol at AVN Vida.

Kairos School, also located in Gowlidodi, is a reputable institution situated amidst numerous residential complexes. Its proximity to residential areas makes it a preferred choice for many parents. Both AVN School and Kairos School offer education up to the tenth grade, providing ample options for families residing in the Financial District, Gowlidodi, and Nanakramguda.

Additionally, Nanakramguda hosts another school Gaudium School - catering specifically to the Primary Year Program, offering a nurturing environment and a plethora of activities for young learners. While parents have the flexibility to choose from these schools for their children enrolled in the Primary Year Program, many opt for schools farther away based on their individual preferences and priorities.

Travelling with an infant / toddler

 

As summer vacation approaches, many of us are eagerly planning our travels, whether it's embarking on adventurous treks, visiting sacred pilgrimage sites, or simply indulging in a relaxing staycation at a favourite destination. However, for those journeying with infants, ensuring a memorable and comfortable trip requires careful preparation. Infants and toddlers are prone to expressing their needs through crying, which can disrupt the enjoyment of adults. To ensure a harmonious journey, it's essential to pack a few key items. Cotton proves invaluable, particularly during air travel, where changes in air pressure can cause discomfort in children's ears. Placing cotton in their ears can alleviate this pressure and prevent discomfort. For toddlers, having candies on hand can provide quick relief if tears arise, offering a sweet distraction. Additionally, packing small toys, such as their favorites, can effectively stave off crankiness and keep little ones entertained throughout the journey. Providing ample milk, juice, and crushed fruits ensures that nutritional needs are met for infants who have begun eating solids. Essential items like diapers, basic medicines, and wipes should also be packed to handle any unforeseen situations. Hygiene is paramount, so carrying sanitizer, cloth wipes, and a baby blanket ensures cleanliness and comfort for both baby and caregiver. A traveling-friendly stroller and baby carrier are indispensable for exploring while keeping the little one safe and secure. By organizing these items in a well-equipped diaper bag, travelers can embark on their journey with confidence, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for the entire family.

 Summary of the list 

1. Cotton for plugging in the ears

2. Favourite Toy 

3. Powder Milk 

4. Juice 

5. Crushed Fruits

6. Wipes

7. Sanitizer

8.Cloth wipes

9.Baby blanket

10. Stroller - light weight

11. Sling / baby carrier

Backbite and rise high

  In both the private and government sectors, many individuals derive pleasure from harming others or tarnishing their image. Nowadays, numerous training programs emphasize the importance of developing interpersonal and social skills. However, social skills often seem like an illusion. Frequently, those who appear to be good friends turn out to be deceitful. How can we identify such foes and treacherous individuals in this world of diverse personalities? Typically, we only become aware of them when we are hurt or our reputation is tarnished due to backbiting. Colleagues may then view us with disdain, leaving us feeling like aliens on planet Earth. Sometimes, gossip spreads, reaching higher-ups through acquaintances, even when we are not involved. This can result in your friend being promoted and becoming a favorite of your superiors, while you are left in a difficult situation.

So, what is the solution?

1. 1 Avoid such people.

1. 2. If you cannot avoid them because you're on the same team, maintain a professional relationship. That This is why it's said that friendship and profession should not be intertwined.

1. 3 Consider changing jobs if the situation becomes unbearable.

1. 4 Turn to spiritual practices - Jiska koi nahi uska khuda

1. 5 Practice yoga and meditation regularly, as they can help, though starting them during such situations might not yield immediate results.

1. 6 Spend time with family - friends may have betrayed you, but family remains steadfast.

Try following these points; something is bound to work.

Say "No" when you find it is taxing

 You have every right to say "no" when you find yourself in circumstances where you feel new to a place and others, including your colleagues, are trying to assert superiority by imposing tasks on you without involving your higher-ups. Sometimes, people may exploit someone's kindness, expecting them to always be available to help without reciprocating. However, it's essential to be vigilant and assess whether the relationship is mutually beneficial or if you're being taken advantage of. It's okay to assert your boundaries and say "no" if someone is encroaching on your personal space, well-being, or emotional equilibrium.

But then another question arises: how do you say "no"?

In India, if we work in an organization, people tend to be very egoistic and headstrong. Whether they are rich or poor, maintaining high or low standards, ego or self-esteem is easily affected. Ego is like ice cream that melts when exposed to warmth. It needs to be kept cool, just like a refrigerator. Here, "refrigerator" refers to flattering the person and aligning with their interests, while "warm temperature" refers to your refusal.

However, one should realize that their own dignity should not be compromised when someone unnecessarily pressures them to complete a task that feels imposed and beyond their responsibilities.

From your side, politely decline the task if you feel overwhelmed and believe that too much has already been assigned to you, and your supervisor or higher-up is not justifying it.

Otherwise, once you accept irrelevant tasks or overburden yourself, it simply implies that they've found a hardworking donkey who will comply with their orders whenever they wish. So, set your boundaries and lead a peaceful life. "Live and let live" should be the motto of every human being, but these days, it is rarely observed.

Exploring Sector 34 in Chandigarh

 Exploring Sector 34 in Chandigarh

Ram Chat Bhandar serves exceptionally delicious pani puri for just Rs 60, with seven tantalizing tastes of pani (water). All the flavors are delectable. Another type of chaat being sold there is Tikki, served traditionally in a rustic bowl made of leaves and topped with freshly grated carrots and radish. It features a generous spread of diverse varieties of chutneys.

Then there's another bustling outlet, Wah ji wah, where an array of different Chaap dishes are served. All are sumptuously vegetarian chaap, with crowds of people eagerly swarming around, eagerly seeking tables and chairs. Most of them are consistently filled, necessitating a potential wait for seating. I particularly enjoyed the WFC chaap. We then indulged in another fabulous chaap dish that was served with a choice of either tandoori roti or rumali roti. They accompany it with chutney and onions as sides. Different varieties of chutneys – including mayonnaise chutney, green-curd chutney, and zesty chilli sauce chutneys – are served to complement the dish. The rush is palpable, with people keen on spending their weekends in Sector 34, relishing every bite. Additionally, diverse clothing markets attract crowds seeking inexpensive and uniquely fashionable attire.

It's truly delightful to spend leisurely evenings on weekends with beloved family members and guests amidst such culinary delights.

Ruh – Urban Heritage Festival Mela, Chandigarh Sector 17

 Ruh – Urban Heritage Festival Mela, Chandigarh Sector 17

Ruh – Festival Mela , held at Parade Ground Sector 17, was a splendid event organized by the Chandigarh government. One could behold a plethora of shops representing different states across India, along with stalls from exotic locales like Telangana, Orissa, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Bihar, Thailand, and Bangladesh.

The Mela was adorned with numerous stalls showcasing pottery items for decoration and storage, as well as charming displays of artificial flowers that captured the attention of many visitors. Amidst the bustling atmosphere, food enthusiasts were treated to an array of delights including potato twisters, fruit ice cream, Rajasthani thali, jalebi, and chat, along with Bihar’s culinary specialties, all of which were savored by attendees.

With an entry ticket priced at Rs 50, accessible to all, the Mela attracted people of various age groups who gathered to relish the diverse tastes and traditions from different parts of India. Notably, the pure cotton bedsheets were not only remarkably cheap but also of exceptional quality, enticing visitors to make purchases. Additionally, the assortment of pickles, handloom-silk suit pieces, colorful dupattas, and saris added to the charm of the event.

Although Rajasthani laakh bangles were crafted before the spectators, they were deemed slightly expensive at Rs 300 for a single bangle. However, eager buyers engaged in bargaining and eventually acquired their desired items. The lively atmosphere was further enhanced by a captivating live performance by award-winning singers, as attendees reveled in the pleasant weather while sipping on piping hot cups of tandoori chai.

While a few stalls from Mumbai showcased suit materials, Phulkaris, and Punjabi juttis, they were noted to be slightly pricier. Many visitors engaged in leisurely window shopping, while others indulged in substantial purchases, acquiring bags of goods including carpets, sculptures, and paintings for home decoration.

Attending the Ruh – Urban Heritage Festival Mela proved to be a delightful experience, allowing participants to unwind and immerse themselves in a tranquil yet culturally vibrant environment.

Comparing Travel Options: Plane vs. Train

"Travel is more than the seeing of sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living." - Miriam Beard

Deciding between train and plane travel presents a choice between convenience and cost. While plane tickets can be pricey, booking in advance can mitigate expenses. Yet, in emergencies, the plane becomes a necessity.

Planned journeys offer comfort and ease, especially when flying from Hyderabad to Chandigarh, with a direct flight taking a mere 2 hours and 15 minutes. However, connecting flights may extend travel time to 5 to 10 hours. Advance booking reduces costs, but last-minute travel proves significantly more expensive.

Preparation is key for air travel. Utilizing digital boarding passes streamlines entry, while early arrival ensures smooth check-in. Flexible tickets offer added benefits, including onboard meals and schedule adjustments. However, excessive screen time detracts from the travel experience, emphasizing the importance of disconnecting during vacations.

Despite the added expense, airport amenities, such as lounges, enhance the journey. Yet, the financial burden of plane travel remains a concern, often requiring significant savings.

While train travel is an alternative, it comes with its own challenges. Lengthy journeys necessitate careful planning, especially with small children. Cleanliness and hygiene can be issues, particularly in lower-class compartments.

In the end, travel choices are influenced by financial stability and personal preferences. While everyone earns, the willingness to invest in comfort varies. Ultimately, the decision lies in balancing cost with convenience.