Sculpturing a stone to a success story...

Many a time, lot of things in this world go meaningless and value less, just because they dont happen at the right time, at the right place and with the right people. Lot of talent goes unnoticed because they dont know the way of right exposure. Lot of experience go useless without others learning from it. Lot of efforts result in no visible changes or profits or making a difference. Why does this happen? And how often does this happen. It can happen to anyone, any time and any where. What makes the change? How come some people experience a difference in life? When they find that something called "Right" in all aspects.

There is an inspiring story of two people - simple friends who did simple things in an extra ordinary way. They did not do different things, but did things differently from others around them. A decade of perservarance, warmth and unchanged understanding and equivilibrium of thougts to grow in life. They still remain simple friends who fight, who laugh together and who cry together for ups and downs in life.
It was the beginning of their careers, simple and small pay jobs that kept their kitchen fires running. A small moped that helped them shuttle to office. She used to help him fuel that little vehicle and he used to pool her to office, to avoid the atrocities of heavily crowded city buses, and protecting her from the men who are still meaner in their behaviours in the buses. He used to help her by training during lunch and after office hours on technology that she never understood completely. She used to listen to his classes and suggest improvements. 3 years went off by the time, the little office they worked, had its shutters closed. Just 5 collegues and 3 best friends emerged. First birthday of her child celebrated with the sponsered money from him. She rushed with her last few hundreds to help him take his wife for a surgery. Life unfolded by each other helping in times of need and still managing to look at being something big in the future.

From there they had to take different paths in career, but still remained together in life, with the same care and concern, love and affection. There emerged two interdependent families.

With a huge joint family, little child, sick husband then and a demanding job at a call centre, she shouted at him, when he proposed her to start taking up an MBA course. Finally his cause won. She gave him a direction to move from a training institute to a software career, a dream that he dreamt from his Anna University days as a trainee and student. From then, nothing made them look back.

People looked at them with envy. With always a wrong intention but they never bothered about what others think. What mattered to them was their growth, their children, their families and future. For that if they had to spend time together everyday, they did it. They did not regret for the false looks they had just because its a married man moving with another married woman. Society looks upon you and puts you down, only if there is something for which you should be guilty of. As long as there is no such wrong notions between them, I think that made them never ever bother about all this scrap of the dirty minds. A pious friendship, a carefilled relationship and fathomless affection. Together they toiled towards their growth, worked unearthly hours, shared beautiful thoughts and all good wishes, equally handled issues and troubles on the way, stood besides each other when trauma stuck and started to realise their dreams. Building a success story from scrap is a tiring process, but with someone's faith and confidence, nothing is impossible in this world. Today they inspire youngsters like them to aim big and move forward what ever may be the circumstances. Especially he doesnt give lectures like she does, but his sets examples by his actions. She is an orator and a writer who I think inspires people around. Today she and her husband regard him as one in their family, nothing happens without him at home. His family gets elited with them around. Now they chase each other to grow further big, leaving behind all the tragedies of poverty, vulnerability, fears and insecurities.

Moral of the story: A stone is just a stone unless its in the right sculptures hand.
Bottomline: That is Krishnan Vadivel for me! My Mentor, Guide and a Best Friend.

An Year that had been larger than Life 2008

Especially for me, this had been one of the best years in my career and very challenging year overall. An year which had seen the best of time and the worst of slide downs throughout. An year which gathered momentum of all sorts. An year of success and much tiring times.
January 2008: My husband with Aish went to fulfill a long time prayers to Lord Ayyappan .
I was taken by surprise as my interview on "Chennai Sangamam" flashed in NDTV on the Pongal day Jan 15th across India.
February 2008: Winning the EWIT excellence award, especially taking a lead on my role model pushed me to a list of surprises. Most Valuable Player Award from GD for Q1 was one another pleasant surprise
March 2008: Addressing a Women's forum on a International Women's day ignited my spirits all the more. Diagnostics Tool Certification was another technical achievement that I least expected. March 12 marked its significance when my father in law gave me a standing ovation as I went on stage in Music Academy to receive my award. My mom and family stood in applause.
April 2008: Got my visa to US and travelled with family to Michigan in mid April, proving a point to lot of people who thought we would get succumbed to my husbands sickness. Turning negative times to positive opportunities once again proved as my strength.
May 2008: Two things fight to take the first seat... Aishu turned 10 and our visit to Niagara falls. To me its a dream come true. Water Falls excites me always and this Falls made my dream many times, and walking down the Niagara river, I felt an amazing transformation in me
Finally my much awaited dual MBA certificate came in from IGNOU...
June 2008: Visit to Sears Towers Chicago and also getting my 7th EAward at work gave a real boost
July 2008: Kick started a huge responsibility wearing multiple hats at work towards a much required 24*7 concentration and working towards only one goal- a project success.
Aish met Dr Kalam in her school.
September 2008: Spent a good amount of time with my childhood friend Madhuri- a deep dive down a 16 years back school stories... wow, what lives for a life time is the childhood friendships
A new friend sparked my life with the presence on my birthday. Also lost a good friend Radikha, whose untimely death moved me beyond thoughts
October 2008: Completed the largest responsibility entrusted upon me. Started to re vibrate my thoughts in my blog. Thanks to this writing spree that got me introduced to Mrs Sarada Ramani....my ongoing inspiration.
Novemeber 2008: Tears rolled down on the day we went live, as a flag bearer of a project that tested our patience and efforts. Watching Obama transform the American history was another exciting moment. Finally bid adieu to Michigan, that gave me a new and profound energies to look at life...Manjit brought new and real meaning to friendship.
December 2008: Aish winning with her school team in the Inter School Dance fest conducted by kalaignar TV and Abirami Mall, made me recognise a grown up independent child who knows to handle priorities. Still remember the sparks in those four eyes that awaited me in Airport as I came back to India, Aish and Raghu gave me a big hug making me feel proud of my family... without their fullest support, I am sure, I would not have been what I am, my mom and sisters awaited eagerly along with my best friends and my mentor Krishnan and my manager Shankar. Getting back an old and much cherished friendship back in life, is like getting back a lost fortune....sometimes, people and their emotions bring in more happiness than materialistic things. Thanks to this wonderful year, that thought me lot of things that gives me a strength to handle anything in life

Fears, Feelings, Failures- Needs Faith to handle them!!!

Recent past had been a witness to the emerging fears across the globe. A hard hit recession, changing job markets, dripping economies, war like terror striking Nations, and suddenly everywhere around, there seems to be a sobre mood. Fears that are weird and varying in nature. Companies are worried how to handle the salaries, jobs, people, expectations, customers, commitments etc. Employees are tight lipped in job insecurity, inflated cost of living, rising prices, and uncertain global scenarios. Tata Motors, Ashok Leyland and many other major indigenous auto companies are showing a slow down. It reminds of the way the Standard Motors came to a standstill in 1980's.

Once glorious cities now fear turmoil beyond repair. One highly paid companies today struggle to manage their balance sheets. We are seeing top companies like Satyam going ahead with acquiring its promoters owned Real estate businesses buying debt, making people wonder what kind of business strategies these are. Infosys took this time to employees to go on salary paid community service time...bringing in new initiatives to serve the society. On the other side, the Indian Auto Industry is creating waves by creating cheap cars. Backed by the quick and rapid moves by RBI and PSU banks towards CRR and cutting down interest rates on the home loans and public borrowing, the Indian financial spectrum is all set to bring the movement necessary is the otherwise standstill consumer market.

One thing that makes everything move forward is a constant faith. Faith in the fact that things will change, and change for good. And this is the time, that we keep our faiths stronger and steadier to move forward amidst any kind of adversity. It is the time, that we all keep our faith in our possibilities, and it is also the time to uphold our faith in the power that is at work behind the veil, faith in the work that is to be done and the offered guidance

Embajada De Espana - An Introduction to Spain

As the Ice Storm bid adieu to me in Detroit, I planned to reach Airport little earlier than planned. Waiting in the airport lounge, a black American sitting next to me, asked me with a frightful look if I am travelling to India. Thanks to CNN showcasting the Mumbai terror again and again in an television adjascent to us. He gave me a sympathatic look at me. Do I need to fear going back to India? Huh... Was surprised when my co-passenger sitting next to me in the Airplane asked me the same question. Common guys, terror is stricking my Nation, agree..but that doesn't mean that we should not travel to India. Amidst this discussion, emerged a friend from Spain.

Roberto Vazquez Delgado, who works for Dept D'Informatique started to introduce me to Spain. Spain being the second largest country in Western Europe. An invitation to come to Madrid and from there to Barcelona, made me curious about Spain. Today what we realise is a global village. Travel to any part of this world is possible. Learning and adopting to any culture is easy. Making friends world over is a practice. Being at the helm of affairs is an advantage. Information is power. That makes me begin all my plans of my next trip, this time to Spain.

Bye Bye Michigan!

Ironically this happens to be my 100th post in this blog, may be the last one from Pontiac, USA this year, and also happens to be the most cherished post.
When I was coming to US, I was thinking that I would not have anything to leave behind or carry forward other than a Project's destiny and memories of places I visited. But today the story is different. I carry with me the most valuable learnings, enriched individuality, better confidence, best of technical and quality, process and deliverables experience and above all many hearts who wish I would come back. I was infact taken back my pleasant shock when one of my friends here said she would pray hard that my plane gets cancelled!! what a prayer!! Just because I would stay back for a little more time!! Gosh, unbelievable!.
I made good number of friends in my co-workers here especially Lori, Savitha and John.. Outside office, I think the best happened to me are Manjith, Usha aunty, Arul, Pastor Rajan, Kuchmolz aunty, Raj, Sudha Chayya, and ofcourse Madhuri and Srividhya, getting back in life here in USA.
This year had been wonderful with so much of activity and achievements, it is also one of the most excellent years in my career and also in personal life, and probably amidst the recession and its ripple effects, I am still confident that I can make the best of the coming year as well, in terms of learning, growth and putting in my hardwork at work and also confidence that I can make the best of my times ahead. God, thank you for this year, the experience and the opportunity and all the blessings and good things that happened, thank you for the bad things as well, for they change the way we look at life and learn from experiences and become better person. Thanks to all everyone who made this journey especially my manager, my mentor, my friends and my family..above all my little one who cooperated with me being independent and understanding to balance my life so far so good towards growth.

Few Funny Pictures, I managed to click!

Tried taking a bag from the girl, thought would be too much to carry home

Manjith tried to catch the falling man!!!

One picture most of the girls were clicking with, wondered what, and laughing to myself, I also stood beside this poster. Not a bad idea, to show this to my man and declare something!!! Ofcourse, to pull him at times! Jus Kidding!

Always had a wooden tortoise charm sitting on my laptop which my overseas collegue gifted me, I thought, this time, I would move on with some thing new, and found this little cute things hanging around on my table!!!

Me and My Snowman!

Tried this snow man but started to shiver and ran inside on day one

Finally managed to make another snow man the next day ,and cheered myself by taking a picture with him, before he melted away!!!

Happy ThanksGiving

I am amazed to find this concept of thanks giving celebrated Nation wide in America today. What an inspirational day it is ? How many of us pause for a moment in our lives to look back and thank all the people who brought in a change in our lives? I usually do not believe in celebrating Friendship day, Valentines day, Fathers day and other concepts Archies and other marketers brought in to India in the recent past. I am wondering why the Thanks Giving day had not made popular so far? Is or is not thanks giving a continuous process in our lives. Anyway, what ever may be the argument, I today, had a chance to recall to myself, about all the people who made that small difference to me. I do not want to list them here, and in the process miss someone inadvertently and regret later.
I thank God for this beautiful life, a life well balanced with ups and downs, and for making the person I am. Counting my blessings and thanking god, for the troubles had shown my courage, pain and suffering had increased my inner strength, enduring badness had shown me righteousness, good things and good people inspired me and thanks to all those people who have enriched my experiences and knowledge, wisdom and truth, tranquility and inner peace, friendship and beautiful relationships, a purpose and vision in life to go forward.
Thank You - One word that my english teacher taught me to use as much as you can and when ever necessary, for appreciation strengthens people's relationships and Gratitude is the rightful way to touch a person's soul. Thank you for reading this too!

Why Mumbai and Why Taj? Time for Homeland Security to be strong

In the wake of the ongoing financial crisis across the globe, India is able to keep proclaiming that we had strong fundamentals, and our banking and financial business houses are stable irrespective of the ripple effect of the economy. Mumbai, the financial capital of India, portrayed a brave picture in spite of the dynamics at Dallal Street. A country whose GDP is steadily increasing and is also able to bring down the inflation to single digit in the recent past, a country which stood tall sending Chandrayan mission to Moon, and who vibrantly displayed the nuclear strength and wealth of our trio forces including army, navy and air force is causing a concern to our neighbours and world nations. India's intellectual brilliance and dependency of the world nations on Indian human potential is one way making it a super power quickly. All we now need are the strong politicians who brings in the required visibility for India, why we should not be called a developed Nation?
Less than a week after Ambika Soni, the Tourism Minister, invited the world to visit India, a hub of spiritual enlightenment and harmonious destination for the troubled world, a hit on the Taj Hotel is quick blow on our tourisim aspirations. In the couple of times, I had the opportunity I had to visit Taj in Mumbai, I found the place is the best destination for foreign tourist, businessmen and industrialists and also for politicians and scientists. Very elegant and poised Taj welcomed guests abroad to make them feel at home. Staying in Fariyaz in Colaba, I took few beautiful walks across the marine drive shore line watching the elegance of the place and the tourist attraction with British chariots entertaining guests.
The process of recovery is long and painful after the terror attacks. It is not easy as said to bring back normalcy. It takes lot more efforts to attract tourists and welcome people, if the finest of hotels are themselves not safe for stay, where else could the world go?. Delhi attacks around Diwali, Goa's ongoing sham of rapes and murders, burning of churches in Orissa, Kerala and Karnataka effecting the sentiments of people, Gujarat riots, Hyderbad attacks, Lucknow and Varanasi temple blasts, and now the Mumbai attacks, all seems to be in a pattern that is aimed to curtail the growth of a Nation. One side Nature is creating havoc with Bihar and Orissa floods and the other side this man-made intimidation is costing us more.
Time to put an end to this unwanted human suffering, create a safe place to live, raise the banners of peace high, and take serious measures aiming at National Security. No concessions to be made to combat terrorism and punish those involved seriously to put an end to this worst game.

Not Again! Stop Killing Innocent People

It gives a deep insecure feeling, seeing people bleeding and dying in Mumbai. The last thing that could be attacked are hospitals, and it's a time to stop the terror. Railway stations, hotels, tourist places, hospitals, shopping areas, temples, trains, buses, and the list goes on n on of all the terror strikes happening in India. Are our cities so vulnerable to terror? This cannot happen without local support and it is a shame to note that our intelligence agencies could do nothing as the country is bleeding one city after the other.
Hundreds of lives thorn into pieces, eighty people dead, ongoing encounter and people held hostage. Its heart- breaking to see the wailing people and their families, to see the injured and dead. Taj stands tall in front of the Arabian Sea retaining the glory of the best hotel in Mumbai. Colaba is a posh southern area where you can see happy tourists riding the horse chariots and taking the boat rides at Gateway of India. All these places are now under terror, pain, and fear. Its time that strict security measures are taken to protect the innocent people. Be it in what ever form of terrorism, this has to stop and stop now.
Government and people should work together to eradicate this contagious terror that is threatening the National Security. If there is something that we can learn from the western world, instead of picking the practices of celebrating valentines day and Halloweens, we should look into the way people handle distress calls, and the importance given to homeland security. Have we ever thought about it, do we have strict visa regulations, do our airports guarded against importing terror, are our borders safe and secure, is our internal police and intelligence strong enough to identify issues before they happen? Are our ministers capable to handle security issues, than to come on live TV and show sympathy every time an adversity happens and talking all parrot talk about compensation, requesting calm, and proclaiming that we condemn this? Who are funding this atrocities and what is the motive behind every blast? There are major hidden questions that need to be answered and uproot the last roots of terror in India, or else, devastating families and deepened scars of insecurity and fear will remain breaking the peace of our homeland.

Missing the first man in my life!

There could be no better day to recall a person who cherished in my dreams, who nurtured me as a kid, who loved me more than any one else could, and dreamt all my dreams even before me. November 26th happens to be one such day, that the recollection of those wonderful days enrich my day and re-vibrate my energies to the fact that I have to fulfill some one's visions for me. The best I could do, is to make his dreams come true. His pride in me to multiply where ever he is. His blessings to shower upon like ever and his spirit guiding me always.

A Man with Smile. That's how I remember this great man who happens to be the first and for the most part of my childhood, the only man whom I knew. He taught me my first words, walked with me my first steps, pampered me with first toys and gifted me first books. He taught me that reading improves your knowledge, your vocabulary, your communication skills and also your creativity. His love was so simple and vast that I haven't seen him hurting anyone in life. A man of passions, love for his family, devotion to god, work is worship and a great neighbour and friend. Even after 16 years that he disappeared into the god's kingdom, he is still alive in thoughts and memories of not just his family, but his friends and neighbours. No wonder, we are lucky. I am proud that he happened to me in life as my great DAD!!! Happy Birthday Daddy, though I know we don't have you today amidst us, you are in our thoughts and our focus in life towards goodness and growth. The smallest tribute we can pay for you would be to bring in smiles of people around us, be sincere in all our work, dream big and work towards it and keep up the basic values of life that you enriched in us. Love you Nana!

Flast Fliers in Life

Few people stay in your life all the time, they stand beside you in thick and thin, share your everyday activity, keep knowing every aspect of your life, and they just go on. Few people come at some part of your life, make a huge impact on your thinking, feelings, activities and go off. People who are there always may or may not influence you to the extent than these Flash Fliers in life. Its the difference of a usual sea or an occasional tsunami.
One person pulled me to walking everyday for half hour, saying why the hell am I spending all my time on the laptop! We walked miles and miles, sharing the sun, frenzy weather, fearful winds, snow showers and with all this our thoughts. We travelled back to three decades, memories that age more than my own age, and became an ardent listener always. The other person spent most of the weekends with me, With all their permissions, I would like to write about these two special people I came across in my recent past.
Just a fortnight before the well planned travel to USA, 35 years back, a 36 year old woman with 4 children aged between 5 and 10, faced one of the most difficult adversity. The sudden death of her husband. All the relatives who eagerly awaited for the family suddenly disappeared. Friends kept a distance. But her convictions were strong and she made the bold decision to still go ahead with the travel. This time, she had to handle it all herself. 7$ per person was what was allowed to be carried and lot more shocks awaited her in a cold country. Jersey City welcomed her with a cold shoulder, with absolutely no people to support or guide. Though born in a wealthy business family, she had to restart everything afresh. Did different jobs that she did not even want to recall to feed her children, working night shifts, making food for neighbours in the morning and baby sitting forgoing her few hours of sleep during day. In all her 30 plus years of stay in US, she never owned a vehicle. I was shocked to know that for a month we could not manage with out a car here. Not a single time, she went to a restaurant nor bought shoes costing more than $10.
As the roads took new turns in life, there emerged four success stories. One daughter as a senior vice president in a leading bank, other two daughters running their own pharmacy' s and medical aid centres, and her son who is a leading Auditor and an upcoming solicitor. Today when her family meets at her apartment in Jersey, she is embarrassed with 3 BMWs and couple of Ferrari's coming down at her parking lot, envying her neighbours. Summer comes, she is again busy making her dhoklas, papads, and roti's this time not for 4 but 7 of her grand children who eagerly awaits her in every summer. One way, I felt that I found my mom in Michigan.
I saw a pain in her eyes when I went to tell her that I am leaving. May be she found someone to share after many years, few moments to say, Ho, Ya and walk ahead with smiles. Yes, looks like I rekindled her emotions, and am writing this here, only to inspire people like me, that no adversity is difficult not to cross. All it needs is a strong conviction, determination, will power, enormous amount of self less love and sacrifice, hard work and perseverance. As she set back to Jersey city, from Pontiac for Thanksgiving this week, I know she is a flash flier in my life. I may not see her again but her spirit and determination had definitely made an influence on me! People who make a difference!

The Faith Family

Its just few months now that I am associated with a group of people following a different religious path of mine, but still who accepted me with open arms of warmth and friendship. Religion to me is a way of living and is not a way of discrimination, after being born and educated in a different religions, to me, all faiths are like different roads to reach the final destination. A realisation of a supreme power. A belief of an power that is beyond man. A destination that is at the end of our life's journey.
Less did I ever thought that I would leave behind people who would cherish my memories with them in the past many months in USA, who acknowledged that I made a difference in their lives and in a way who told me that I inspired them. I am embarrassed. When a family of 60+ people stood yesterday in prayer thanking God that they had a chance to meet me, and putting a special prayer that I should have travel mercies and all success mercies in future, I felt a moment back in the glory of my Alma mater. When people hugged me with wishes that I come back, with a thought that I would keep in touch, and with a happiness of having met me and had a chance to be my friends, I had no words. End of the day, we all met and departed as Indians in America. I now realised that I am not only going to carry back home, a project success, but also the baggage's of love that these people filled in my life. One thing I realised, no matter where you are, its your attitude that makes you get the right people in life, and I am happy I did manage to find so many hearts wishing me all the best as I travel back home..

The chair in which Abraham Lincoln was assacinated.



Thomas Alva Edisson laid the first stone for Ford Museum in Detroit

The bus in which Rosa Parks started the Civil Rights movement in USA

Places may change but faith do not! Aurora- A Symbol of retained Hindu Glory

The Fun in Sand - Sauguatek Dune Rides

The songs of the deserts are sometimes heard in the roaring silence of the winds and the magnificence of the rides down the sands towards the freezing lakes

The Detroit Glory- The Big 3 in pics

The Mighty Niagara Falls

The Magic of Netherlands in midst of Michigan Holland!!!

Pictures speak volumes than words. Amazing wonders with colors of Nature

Red means vibrancy and courage..Radianace

Beauty of nature lies in a man's vision

Another picture of nature that makes you wonder, the vibrancy of colors

May 2008-Tulip Festival, Holland, Michigan USA

Excellence

Excellence! You are excellent. As I kept hearing this word many times this year than never before, I was wondering what it actually means. What makes some one excellent or something of excellence? Is there a boundary on which an excellence is decided? Is there a way that people perceive a thing and rate it as excellent? There are numerous questions that flooded my thoughts.
Excellence is Exceeding Expectations.
Yes, Excellence is doing more than what is expected in a positive way, towards betterment and growth.... I expect 1000 bags of rice to be produced this year in my farm, but I manage to produce 1500 bags exceeding expectations...that's my excellence.
Excellence is a continuous process.
Once you are excellent, it becomes your standard, and you have no choice than to make it a continuous process. In my above example, now my standard and expectation will be 1500 bags of produce... and I don't have a choice to come down the same..means I have now set a new example of myself.
Excellence is a journey not a destination
If you are excellent and forget being excellent always, you would soon become a history, and get dissolved in the pages of time. New ways and means to be discovered to keep this process is a continuous journey. Never a destination
Excellence is an ongoing challenge.
The challenge is being a competition to yourself and to others. You should sharpen your axe from time to time to keep in pace with the changes around you. Identifying the strengths of your competitors and enabling yourself to equip to win over them makes you a tough person.
Excellence is a combination of all virtues
Hard work, Perseverance, Innovation, Approachability, Inter-Personal skills, Communication, Visibility, Perfection in work, deliverable on time, commitments to customers honoured, balancing your personal and professional lives, constructive education, team work, motivating others, continuous learning process, contribution to society, aspiring for growth and daring to dream new things and work towards it, entertaining your hobbies and refreshing yourself to new challenges and hold upon your loyalty, sincerity, and integrity to the organization and yourself, providing adequate attention to your family and friends, taking time off to be on your own, and above all Faith and Faith in your possibilities and the sustain supreme power beyond us, makes us Excellent!!! Yes , Par Excellence!!!

Change in Business Models is the only solution?

The change in the business model is essential for the large corporates that are struggling for existence. There has to be significant changes in the way of cost-effective operations that would provide cost effective business solutions as well. End of one tunnel may be a beginning of a better road ahead. This positive tendency has to first re-vibrate in the people to create opportunities instead of creating a pessimistic mind set of losing. Obstacles are those frightful things that hinder our growth when we lose sight of our goals. Opportunities are those new avenues that open up when the obstacles are tackled with affirmation. It is quite essential for creating a new environment and a people's perception that would make new opportunities possible. Beginning of all things is small... so with the big obstacles, we should not fail to look at those small new beginnings that may in future emerge as successful business opportunities. This is nothing but a game of treasure hunt.. and its time for the people to look for the first clue to move forward!!!

What makes you a good leader?

Quite often, I wonder why one manager is different from the other. Why one leader is different from the other.. Why one politician is different from the other... What ever may be the differences in the ways of handling things, there are quite a very proven concepts that make the best of leaders in the world. Right from a class leader, a school pupil leader, a district collector, a state governor, a minister, or a National leader, or a manager, regional head, country head or global head, there are few things that go with each of the leaders!
1. Leaders are born, they are not made! It is an innate quality that exemplifies a person's approach to circumstances and people, that make them leaders.
2. People who can set examples. Remember someone is watching you always, and when these some one's become multiple and people follow you, you become a leader
3. Some one to look upon- When there is a roadblock, and people need guidance, solace, results and revised paths, and if you could lead them to newer dimensions, you become a choice to be a leader, not by yourself, but by others.
4. Delegation of authority- It is important that you trust your subordinates, and provide them support to grow. As each one them takes one step of growth, you grow by the number of people who grows in your team. But remember, responsibility to be assigned with required authority for a job to be executed perfectly
5. Team Work- Its always WE and never "me". Especially when you are leader, you set an example..one classic theory is that a leader will stand in front when bullets are fired and stand behind the team while lifting the trophies. Dr Kalam, talks about this at length about Vikram Sarabai and his leadership in his Ignited Minds
6. Exceeding Expectations- Once you set a standard, a standard far above everyone in a group, it becomes a leader's standard and this is when you exceeds general expectations. A leader is supposed to keep up these expectations always.
7. Do not preach, but practice- Leaders who just do what they are expected are highly regarded, and mostly people follow for what they do than for what they say. When what is said and what is done is in sync, they become the most respected leaders.
8. Integrity and Respect - Sincerity, hard work, dedication,devotion to work assigned, commitment, timeliness, quality and perfection in work, transparency, appreciation and approachability are all closely watched by the people in the groups and a leader should be a role model. People automatically starts giving you more respect and take your word as final. Respect is never commanded, its given!
You want to be proven leader, see how many of the above traits you possess. Am sure all leaders will have most of these qualities in-built in them.

Be Indian - BUY Indian

"Be Indian- Buy Indian" - Did we not hear this as children? I always remember the image of Gandhiji with the wheel, working on the spinning of cotton yarn. Yes, may be its now time- after 60 years of India's independence to sing the song of " Made in India"
Made in India....Yes, I am right when I proclaim this. I am a patriot to my nation, no doubt. But still, there is an analyst and economist behind this statement. The need of the hour:
1. Create jobs and more jobs in India
2. Oil the wheels of Indian Industry
3. Creating a complete self-reliance on the manufacturing sectors.
4. Conservation and preservation of India's rich natural resources
5. Fullest utilization of the knowledge and talent of highly educated.
6. Prevention of erosion of India's rich forest reserves
7. Creating economic upheaval of rural India with micro-financing
8. Take all steps to prevent shortage of food grains and agricultural produce.
9. Bringing in the wind energy, solar energy and thermal energy efficiency
10. Lessen the dependence on the global markets for our industry inputs
11. Utilisation of indigenous products and raw materials for our plants
12. Promote Indian Products with a conscious effort. This is definitely a strong lesson that we need to learn from the global economic down-turn.
13. Save our hard earned freedom by bringing in an economic independence and a real socialistic and sovereign republic
Let me go in detail in my next post on the " Made in India" branding...the most essential crusade of the century that need to begin right away....encourage yourself, your children, friends, families and colleagues to follow this branding...doing a little in a way which is possible to you.... for every drop counts in a ocean...and lets make a oceanic difference in the Indian Economy!!! Jai Hind!

Business Processes Re- Engineering

Its now time for the world companies to look into re-structuring...which means the entire existing business processes need to be re-engineered to meet the current demands of the global economy. What does it mean? It is a strategical change in the way the things were perceived, interpreted and executed. Which means that right from the planning till the execution of the new processes, everything had to be revisited. Just like the way, people looked at the burning houses in California but the day next, ensured to re look into what best can be done to move forward. The same synthesis applies to business economics also.
Move forward! Yes, the biggest questions lies behind on what need to be changed, how to be changed, and what is the cost and time involved and a real readiness for the change from the conservative way of approach in the business. The Auto Industry need to look into more fuel efficient, economic and reliable vehicles on road. The manufacturing plants need to revamp with newer technologies which would be one time investment and time for change in tools and machinery. The travel industry need to look into more economic and viable solutions than aiming for the cosy infrastructure and advertising. The Financing industry need to start picking up lessons from the past and look into more conservative ways of financing that proved fatal and also look into the Asian financing system that much more stronger on fundamentals. The Insurance sector need to look into what the terms and conditions stated can be redefined. The health sector need to reestablish with tie up with insurance companies and corporates to bring in a more down to earth health packages and solutions to reach the common man. The Pharmaceutical industry need to get more organised with clubbing of solutions instead of we having 10 different medicines for simple headache, the medical fraternity can work towards simpled single solution that is economical, viable and effort worthy.. the fashion and film industry should bring in a change in the kind of amount that is spent on unnecessary things and can divert towards social causes. Infact the political scenario of few countries need to be changed for the political freedom is useless with out the economic independence. Our old stories of colonisation, and history of Russia, South Korea and Mexico are strong examples of how industrial growth and economy viability within the countries is essential to withstand global recessions and its impacts.
By all means, there is lot more of work coming up....especially its time for companies to look up strong strategists who can work on corporate objectives to enhance the smooth transition towards growth and re-engineering. It is a mammoth task but a definite task that need to be accomplished sooner than later. India's IIM and top university grads can help to build this process, for we have a talent pool which is a mixture of engineering skills and also economic considerations along with process orientation. Its time for Processes and Projects to go hand in hand and to be in par all times. COMMON INDIA, THE WORLD NEEDS YOUR BRAINS AND TALENTS TO RESTRUCTURE THE ECONOMIES...JUST GO AHEAD AND DO YOUR BIT TO REVITALISE AND STOP THE TUMBLING BLOCKS FROM FALLING.....

Recession, credit crunch, layoffs. cost cutting and what not!!!

Since October 2008, we had been continuously hearing the words I mentioned here in the title... Are we really in a globally worst times, or in an much exaggerated situation. Did all these companies fail and suddenly tumbled in October or what there a hidden storm unpredicted. United States, a country which is considered the most powerful and developed nation did not predict and prevent an economic tsunami?! The countries which predict weather forecast every 10 minutes on television channels, care about puppies and kittens, failed to look into the fire that was going blaze down the very living of millions of people?? Who failed and where did we fail as a global village.
As an analyst, I would like to look into this from an entirely different view point. Simple question: When does an economy tumble? It tumbles down when there is no cash flow. OK, when does the cash flow stop?? The cash flow stops when the consumers stop buying. Right, why do consumers stop buying? Either they don't have enough money, or not able to avail enough credit, or do not have jobs to support the finances or a new consumer behaviour emerges where the concept of savings begin. Paradoxically, one of the 4 above could be the reasons.
Lets look into each phenomena, do not have enough money!.. means that people's needs are more than the actual means. Or the money is just sufficient to handle the inflated prices and needs. Secondly, there is no enough credit. 9 :10 was the credit standards of the bank in US, and in Europe the lending ratio was 10.5: 10, Where as in developing nations, the credit ratio was 7:10, which means the banks lend 7 rupees against the 10 rupees liquidity or cash reserve or funding dynamics. Now the situation had come that if the 9 rupees of 10 is not paid periodically back to the bank, due to the first reason here, the banks will run out of reserves. So its a cyclic reaction. The next was that foreclosures. I have seen a sea of cars put for sale in a stadium...remember the auction began at less than 1000$ for each car which could anyway be worth of 16000$ and above... and North Perry street adjacent to where I live, is abandoned with empty houses..lot many so beautiful and well designed. Banks are struggling to maintain these houses, and keep paying the basic bills to the government. What happened to the people suddenly?? There was no major concept of savings in general. Which means, when the worst had hit, there is a no fall back plan. Companies think about the BCP and Disaster recovery plans...not able understand why and where there failed to be a Financial Disaster recovery plan...something failed strategically over the years. Last one, the loss of jobs and its direct impact on the people and the consumerism. Though its late, every dollar in hand counts today.
I remember reading in my history classes, the way East India Company conquered the trade in India, and slowly paved a way for the British to rule... because the economy and fate of the people depend on the strong trade and commerce. For a moment, though it hurts, the reality is that 8 out of 10 products that I purchased in the last ten days, do not have the stamp "Made in USA". Virtually, the entire market is flooded with products from Taiwan, China, Bangladesh, Vietnam and India. My friend Lori and me were discussing this in detail... she expressed her anger that the last ship of 1945 World War II, which had been auctioned to Mexico, is now on its final journey to India to be dismantled and used for the strong steel it has..you know what, to be made as "Manhole covers" and exported back to USA. US Steel company failed for the first time in history and nearly 150 banks are struggling to make it, consumer retail product companies, airlines, manufacturing and the worst hit American Automobile industry. Lori also said in anger, that people do not acknowledge the fact that we should buy indigenous products so that jobs are created here and people earn a living. May be she is hinting at a strong lesson to all of us all over the world. First create opportunities for your own products, your own people and your own industry. Global Economy and concepts are universally accepted, but we cannot in that urge let us fail as individual countries. The minute a developed nation's economy is hit, it had its own chain reaction across the globe. May be, its a real time for all of us to think on what products to buy and make the cash flow in the economy viable for the growth of Individual Nations.
May its again time for us to raise our flags and call for a Gandhian era, where at a time, we banned the foreign goods.... Save Yourselves!!!

Succeeding within the box

"When we will get more tools and better systems"
Most of us have heard the saying "Creativity is thinking outside the box". There's alot of truth in that, but to me, the true creativity is this : Succeeding within the box.
Hitting targets, reaching goals, doing the job well and making a difference with what we already have is the QBQ way. Every organization has imperfect systems and finite resources. We may wish we had newer tools, better systems, more people and bigger bugets. But thinking too much about what we'd like to have is another cause of procrastination. Managers, for example, won't take their group through team-building until "all the right people are in place" . Individuals won't make a decision until they have all the information or take action until all the questions are answered.
Ironically, suceeding with what have makes us more likely to get the things we wanted in the first place. Listen to the wisdom of Deb Weber of State Farm Insurance: "I'll find that every time I do the job with the tools I have, I tend to receive more tools", Its a truth: We sow, we reap.
Focusing on what we don't have is a waste of time and energy. To really make a difference, let's instead focus our energy on succeeding within the box. Let's ask the QBQ "How can I achieve with the resources I already have?"
PS:"This is one post that I print and keep on my desk since 2003, from the time Johnny Tsang shared this with me, an extract from John G Miller's writing. By the way, QBQ means- The Questions behind the Question.

My Michigan Takeaways!

As I am all set to go back to my country, my city, my family and my usual routine.... I do hold lot of things in thought and have lot of things to jot as well.. Especially the kind of takeaways from my first visit to United States..... to me this is a journey which had been successful, well planned and highly educative and I am sure I have lot of good things that I can carry with me as I go back to hug my little one waiting at home.... The list in brief and if time permits, would keep this memories written and saved in my blog so that I can cherish any day... it begins
1. A Hard worked Project Success... the very objective of me coming to on site
2. Immense experience and value that I accumulated in a very challenging project
3. Gaining the people's trust and looking forward in my work- proved inter personal skills that got me friends in all teams from just being hostile colleagues from various streams
4. A childhood dream come true- Visit to NIAGARA FALLS....
5. Celebrating my child's 10th Birthday in USA
6. The Fragrance and Beauty of Tulip Gardens in Holland
7. Washington DC- Re-discovering the friendship of Srivi and family and the administration part of US- Watching Lincoln Memorial, White house, Capitol Hill and Luray Caverns
8. Amazing slide down the Sand dunes in Saugatek down to Lake Michigan
9. Cars and cars and cars-- Chrysler, Ford and GM Renaissance Centre- Only wish they survive for long, as Detroit and World needs them
10. Rediscovering Hindu faith and temple in Aurora Balaji Temple.. Beauty in devotion
11. Taking my family on top of Sears towers- the tallest towers in North America in Chicago
12. My classmate Madhuri coming to pick me up in Detroit- meeting after 16 years of school-Nothing changed
13. The Fall Colors- Enjoyed the greenery, beauty and amazing natural extravaganza of Michigan lakes, parks, roads and climate..... real Katrinil oru geetham!!!
14. The Silent hours after many years- staying alone,working average 18 hours a day, taking time off to write with passion and composing the devotional songs in weekends.. rediscovering my passions and hobbies.........just being alone..
15. Celebrating my birthday weekend with Manjit in Lake Erie on Canada Border
16. A Chance to watch the history happening with Obama winning US Election 2008
17. Last but not the least- taking with me the warmth of people in a new country who never let me feel alien here.. and few beautiful friendships that I would cherish for life
Thank You Michigan... I would write more on each of the takeaways as time permits...

To My Dad and Mom- Happy Anniversary!

12 November 1970, the day my parents tied the knot. Lucky I am to have such wonderful people as my dad and mom. Its almost 16 years that Papa passed away, but still today, he is amidst us in our thoughts and deeds. Today what these parents tranformed are three girls into very responsible citizens. Of the very few photos we have and cherish of my mom and dad, the one in this post is my beloved one...

This one was actually taken in 1982, during our first house warming ceremony.. what a lovely parents. If my mom is known for her self-less committment and responsibility towards us, dad is known for what he showed as love and goodness can be. Together, they made us just follow them. Though there are no celebration anymore on this day, we still cherish the day that brought in a couple and a beautiful family that had withstood the test of time and turbulances of a middle class urban living and sustain to grow with perseverance and faith. My mom taught us that nothing in this world is free and hardwork is the only way to success. Dedication, perseverance and responsibility towards your commitments is what she inculcated in us. On the other side, Dad taught us that money should always come to you and you should never run behind it. In simple words, do everything possible to grow in life, and do not expect anything. What is destined will happen and you are the sole owner of shaping your destiny... I dont remember them telling us or talking to us on these things, but they followed certain things that we inherited in us. Mom was like everyother mother whose anxious, vibrant and intolerant at times, but as we grew we understood the reasons why she was concerned when all three girls were in teens. Otherside my dad was a cool dude, with all smiles, always saying God is there to take care, and who put in us values of family, devotion and happiness. We love you Mom and Dad!!! You are the best!!!

Million Thoughts Day

Today happens to be one of those million thoughts days,,, where thoughts over run the words..Yet in such a bewildered moments, as you pen down your thoughts, you end up relating things and events that inter wine and make your thoughts look confused, happy, sad, hopeful and stressed too...
Today happens to be one big day at my work, where a one year's hard work is finally getting its last leg.. almost like in the last lap of a relay race.. a race that was tough, at times insurmountable, many a time tiring, challenging, commanding my private time, and thoughts, days and nights where we spent as individuals and team towards one single goal. Finally when it is all happening, I am finding it excited, tensed, and almost happy and sad. Happy for its finally happening and sad for its getting to an end. But the sadness is outgrown by the happiness, for the accomplishments and achievements it brought with it. Immense technical details, strong leadership skills, highly regarded interpersonal skills, vibrant communication, one toes on deliverable, quality in our work, team that at time forgot everything than the project, long hours we spent discussing, analyzing, communication, developing, testing, implementing solutions. Ha! What a relief. What a happiness. What a shadow of fear, a fear of being into the new thing after this is over. The happiness of starting it all again, in a new shore, in a new environment, may be in a new technology, new expectations, new customer, new team and new new and everything new.. this indicates a preparedness for change. Reiterating the fact that change is the only constant thing.
Today, personally, I am very happy. My friend's twin daughters Sanju and Sanyu celebrating their birthday today... a beautiful roses those blossomed in Dallas, the beauty of a family that loves me and just there for me always... am excited that the girls are growing..growing so beautifully.
For the first time today, I read a full book..After many long months. A book written by Nicholas Sparks - At First sight... that gives you an insight on love and trust...overwhelming, that I slept only at 4 am after completing the same... In the evening, sat with my friend Manji and watched a movie "13 on way to 30"..what a realistic movie..it was as if reflecting the teen in me in my thirties..At the age of 13, we want to grow fast, grow big, look womanly, find attention, grab big jobs, and become popular. When in reality at 30, everything keeps happening as we dreamt and work towards it, you just wish, you can redo it all over again.. you would just wanna those first teen days to come back,,want the first care of a friend to live for a lifetime, want the first fights in school to continue.. just you keep thinking that you want to really go back to high school... Very True. It happens with me, and I know it happens with my sisters and friends too.
In fact in one way, young mothers are blessed to relive their lives seeing the young daughters grow...I could not help blushing when my kid was talking about being a celebrity in school, something that I could never even think of... yes,,, today because of work, my book reading, and in a urge to do hundred things all today..missed having my usual chat with her online... that's the strength I feel...keeping connected with your dear ones..what happened to that connectedness today....Oh God... I watered my money plant, wanted it get some sunlight after I remembered the plant in the table in my Chennai office getting its required attention yesterday..
Looking at the economy and people's jobs at stake, my heart aches for a while...Being part of this economic slowdown, I can have no better reason than being regretful... one side my happiness is that I can go back to my family very soon..at the same time, I have reasons to be sad as my goals are still half baked... I have shopping to do, I have tasks to complete, I have my book to be published, friends and family to meet and lot of other things. Rejoin my crusade as a Inner wheel member, counsel people as part of Scarf, doing my reading at the blind school, arrange a party for my kid's friends and finally take a day to hit my favorite dance floor. Too much...too many things, too many thoughts.. End of it, Just picked an ice cream and sat to blog... What a beautiful day..... that I named as my MTD!!!

Obama's speech in Chicago minutes after his victory in Election 2008

President-elect Barack Obama's victory speech in Chicago as released by his campaign.If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible; who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time; who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer. It's the answer told by lines that stretched around schools and churches in numbers this nation has never seen; by people who waited three hours and four hours, many for the very first time in their lives, because they believed that this time must be different; that their voice could be that difference. It's the answer spoken by young and old, rich and poor, Democrat and Republican, black, white, Latino, Asian, Native American, gay, straight, disabled and not disabled - Americans who sent a message to the world that we have never been a collection of Red States and Blue States: we are, and always will be, the United States of America.It's the answer that led those who have been told for so long by so many to be cynical, and fearful, and doubtful of what we can achieve to put their hands on the arc of history and bend it once more toward the hope of a better day. It's been a long time coming, but tonight, because of what we did on this day, in this election, at this defining moment, change has come to America. I just received a very gracious call from Senator McCain. He fought long and hard in this campaign, and he's fought even longer and harder for the country he loves. He has endured sacrifices for America that most of us cannot begin to imagine, and we are better off for the service rendered by this brave and selfless leader. I congratulate him and Governor Palin for all they have achieved, and I look forward to working with them to renew this nation's promise in the months ahead.I want to thank my partner in this journey, a man who campaigned from his heart and spoke for the men and women he grew up with on the streets of Scranton and rode with on that train home to Delaware, the Vice President-elect of the United States, Joe Biden. I would not be standing here tonight without the unyielding support of my best friend for the last sixteen years, the rock of our family and the love of my life, our nation's next First Lady, Michelle Obama. Sasha and Malia, I love you both so much, and you have earned the new puppy that's coming with us to the White House. And while she's no longer with us, I know my grandmother is watching, along with the family that made me who I am. I miss them tonight, and know that my debt to them is beyond measure. To my campaign manager David Plouffe, my chief strategist David Axelrod, and the best campaign team ever assembled in the history of politics - you made this happen, and I am forever grateful for what you've sacrificed to get it done. But above all, I will never forget who this victory truly belongs to - it belongs to you. I was never the likeliest candidate for this office. We didn't start with much money or many endorsements. Our campaign was not hatched in the halls of Washington - it began in the backyards of Des Moines and the living rooms of Concord and the front porches of Charleston.It was built by working men and women who dug into what little savings they had to give five dollars and ten dollars and twenty dollars to this cause. It grew strength from the young people who rejected the myth of their generation's apathy; who left their homes and their families for jobs that offered little pay and less sleep; from the not-so-young people who braved the bitter cold and scorching heat to knock on the doors of perfect strangers; from the millions of Americans who volunteered, and organized, and proved that more than two centuries later, a government of the people, by the people and for the people has not perished from this Earth. This is your victory.I know you didn't do this just to win an election and I know you didn't do it for me. You did it because you understand the enormity of the task that lies ahead. For even as we celebrate tonight, we know the challenges that tomorrow will bring are the greatest of our lifetime - two wars, a planet in peril, the worst financial crisis in a century. Even as we stand here tonight, we know there are brave Americans waking up in the deserts of Iraq and the mountains of Afghanistan to risk their lives for us. There are mothers and fathers who will lie awake after their children fall asleep and wonder how they'll make the mortgage, or pay their doctor's bills, or save enough for college. There is new energy to harness and new jobs to be created; new schools to build and threats to meet and alliances to repair.The road ahead will be long. Our climb will be steep. We may not get there in one year or even one term, but America - I have never been more hopeful than I am tonight that we will get there. I promise you - we as a people will get there. There will be setbacks and false starts. There are many who won't agree with every decision or policy I make as President, and we know that government can't solve every problem. But I will always be honest with you about the challenges we face. I will listen to you, especially when we disagree. And above all, I will ask you join in the work of remaking this nation the only way it's been done in America for two-hundred and twenty-one years - block by block, brick by brick, calloused hand by calloused hand. What began twenty-one months ago in the depths of winter must not end on this autumn night. This victory alone is not the change we seek - it is only the chance for us to make that change. And that cannot happen if we go back to the way things were. It cannot happen without you. So let us summon a new spirit of patriotism; of service and responsibility where each of us resolves to pitch in and work harder and look after not only ourselves, but each other. Let us remember that if this financial crisis taught us anything, it's that we cannot have a thriving Wall Street while Main Street suffers - in this country, we rise or fall as one nation; as one peopleLet us resist the temptation to fall back on the same partisanship and pettiness and immaturity that has poisoned our politics for so long. Let us remember that it was a man from this state who first carried the banner of the Republican Party to the White House - a party founded on the values of self-reliance, individual liberty, and national unity. Those are values we all share, and while the Democratic Party has won a great victory tonight, we do so with a measure of humility and determination to heal the divides that have held back our progress. As Lincoln said to a nation far more divided than ours, "We are not enemies, but friends...though passion may have strained it must not break our bonds of affection." And to those Americans whose support I have yet to earn - I may not have won your vote, but I hear your voices, I need your help, and I will be your President too. And to all those watching tonight from beyond our shores, from parliaments and palaces to those who are huddled around radios in the forgotten corners of our world - our stories are singular, but our destiny is shared, and a new dawn of American leadership is at hand. To those who would tear this world down - we will defeat you. To those who seek peace and security - we support you. And to all those who have wondered if America's beacon still burns as bright - tonight we proved once more that the true strength of our nation comes not from our the might of our arms or the scale of our wealth, but from the enduring power of our ideals: democracy, liberty, opportunity, and unyielding hope. For that is the true genius of America - that America can change. Our union can be perfected. And what we have already achieved gives us hope for what we can and must achieve tomorrow.This election had many firsts and many stories that will be told for generations. But one that's on my mind tonight is about a woman who cast her ballot in Atlanta. She's a lot like the millions of others who stood in line to make their voice heard in this election except for one thing - Ann Nixon Cooper is 106 years old. She was born just a generation past slavery; a time when there were no cars on the road or planes in the sky; when someone like her couldn't vote for two reasons - because she was a woman and because of the color of her skin. And tonight, I think about all that she's seen throughout her century in America - the heartache and the hope; the struggle and the progress; the times we were told that we can't, and the people who pressed on with that American creed: Yes we can. At a time when women's voices were silenced and their hopes dismissed, she lived to see them stand up and speak out and reach for the ballot. Yes we can. When there was despair in the dust bowl and depression across the land, she saw a nation conquer fear itself with a New Deal, new jobs and a new sense of common purpose. Yes we can. When the bombs fell on our harbor and tyranny threatened the world, she was there to witness a generation rise to greatness and a democracy was saved. Yes we can. She was there for the buses in Montgomery, the hoses in Birmingham, a bridge in Selma, and a preacher from Atlanta who told a people that "We Shall Overcome." Yes we can.A man touched down on the moon, a wall came down in Berlin, a world was connected by our own science and imagination. And this year, in this election, she touched her finger to a screen, and cast her vote, because after 106 years in America, through the best of times and the darkest of hours, she knows how America can change. Yes we can. America, we have come so far. We have seen so much. But there is so much more to do. So tonight, let us ask ourselves - if our children should live to see the next century; if my daughters should be so lucky to live as long as Ann Nixon Cooper, what change will they see? What progress will we have made? This is our chance to answer that call. This is our moment. This is our time - to put our people back to work and open doors of opportunity for our kids; to restore prosperity and promote the cause of peace; to reclaim the American Dream and reaffirm that fundamental truth - that out of many, we are one; that while we breathe, we hope, and where we are met with cynicism, and doubt, and those who tell us that we can't, we will respond with that timeless creed that sums up the spirit of a people: Yes We Can. Thank you, God bless you, and may God Bless the United States of America.

Obama- The 44th President of United States

Watching the American Obama fever tonight, it makes me write this with a very deep emotion of a Nation desperate for a real Change. People are crying with Joy, jumping in happiness and celebrating the victory of a black American first time creating a history.. Its just 5 minutes back that Obama created history by hitting 284 count on the Decision 2008 at 11pm EST on 4 Nov 2008 and 333 within 7 minutes- creating a new world history bringing in a wave of amazement, happiness and people's mandate to stop the digging of a nation with a hope of revival, and a new energy. Hatts Off Obama... the world is looking for a young and dynamic leader who could change the lives of the people in United States and bring in a transforming change that the country is awaiting. Personally, to me its a day that I would remember being in US when the history is getting created and only wish this kind of a day dawns in my Nation too, where a real people hero would emerge to make my country get set on the right path... Chicago Grant Park is jumping in joy with a Nation standing in a salute to their new found energy in their new President Sen Barack Obama. A victory over race, ethnic values, beliefs, cross-country cultures, expectations, energy and young vibrant future in making with the New President Barack Obama

Secular Fabric of my Nation is at stake

India is a 'Sovereign, Socialist, Secular Democratic Republic'. My homeland is known for its tolerance and secularist fabric in which people of various faiths, and the largest diversified society existed in harmony and peace. This pride seems to be no longer holding good and it is an innate pain to see the very edifice on which the fundamentals of a Nation is built is under threat.
Not pointing any specific group or organization, but in general the warmth of co-existence seems to be slowly fading away in the name of language, regional and religion. Today millions of Indians are working in various countries and they are accepted, regarded and respected for the best of the things that Indians are able to transform in the world all over. What is that we are fighting within us in our home? What if the world nations, feel that we are outsiders? Can the economy and global outreach possible? The very people should understand that as far as India is concerned, every city and every state has a responsibility to treat fellow Indians with warmth, care and cooperation. Why can't other state people live in Maharashtra? What is causing havoc in Orissa? Why are certain faiths attacked in Kerala and Karnataka? Whoever it is, raising tantrums in the name of region and language should first realise that we are building our own graves killing the securalistic sentiments of a Nation. India was, is and will be a 'Sovereign, Socialist, Secular Democratic Republic', and the people at large have to join hands to make this possible. Few marginalised and self-centred groups should not be allowed to overtake a Nation's integrity and our pledge in our unity in diversity.

Yourself

The Golden Chain

The chain

One day a man saw a old lady, stranded on the side of the road, but even in the dim light of day, he could see she needed help. So he pulled up in front of her Mercedes and got out. His Pontiac was still sputtering when he approached her. Even with the smile on his face, she was worried. No one had stopped to help for the last hour or so. Was he going to hurt her? He didn't look safe; he looked poor and hungry. He could see that she was frightened, standing out there in the cold. He knew how she felt. It was that chill which only fear can put in you. He said, "I'm here to help you, ma'am. Why don't you wait in the car where it's warm? By the way, my name is Bryan Anderson." Well, all she had was a flat tyre, but for an old lady, that was bad enough. Bryan crawled under the car looking for a place to put the jack, skinning his knuckles a time or two. Soon he was able to change the tyre. But he had to get dirty and his hands hurt. As he was tightening up the lug nuts, she rolled down the window and began to talk to him. She told him that she was from St. Louis and was only just passing through. She couldn't thank him enough for coming to her aid. Bryan just smiled as he closed her trunk. The lady asked how much she owed him. Any amount would have been all right with her. She already imagined all the awful things that could have happened had he not stopped. Bryan never thought twice about being paid. This was not a job to him. This was helping someone in need, and God knows there were plenty, who had given him a hand in the past. He had lived his whole life that way, and it never occurred to him to act any other way. He told her that if she really wanted to pay him back, the next time she saw someone who needed help, she could give that person the assistance they needed, and Bryan added, "And think of me." He waited until she started her car and drove off. It had been a cold and depressing day, but he felt good as he headed for home, disappearing into the twilight. A few miles down the road the lady saw a small cafe. She went in to grab a bite to eat, and take the chill off before she made the last leg of her trip home. It was a dingy looking restaurant. Outside were two old gas pumps. The whole scene was unfamiliar to her. The waitress came over and brought a clean towel to wipe her wet hair. She had a sweet smile, one that even being on her feet for the whole day couldn't erase. The lady noticed the waitress was nearly eight months pregnant, but she never let the strain and aches change her attitude. The old lady wondered how someone who had so little could be so giving to a stranger. Then she remembered Bryan. After the lady finished her meal, she paid with a hundred dollar bill. The waitress quickly went to get change for her hundred dollar bill, but the old lady had slipped right out the door. She was gone by the time the waitress came back. The waitress wondered where the lady could be. Then she noticed something written on the napkin. There were tears in her eyes when she read what the lady wrote: "You don't owe me anything. I have been there too. Somebody once helped me out, the way I'm helping you. If you really want to pay me back, here is what you do: Do not let this chain of love end with you." Under the napkin were four more $100 bills. Well, there were tables to clear, sugar bowls to fill, and people to serve, but the waitress made it through another day. That night when she got home from work and climbed into bed, she was thinking about the money and what the lady had written. How could the lady have known how much she and her husband needed it? With the baby due next month, it was going to be hard.... She knew how worried her husband was, and as he lay sleeping next to her, she gave him a soft kiss and whispered soft and low, "Everything' s going to be all right. I love you, Bryan Anderson."

- Author Unknown

Magic of Mahabalipuram

The best of the Mahabalipuram is its Shore Temple- having the Vishu and Shiva idols inside- still surviving the test of time.. one of the most cherished remains of the era that excelled in sculptural excellence of India

The Tiger Caves of Mahabalipuram, more than 1400 years old, stands tall as testimony to the Indian art and sculptural significance. Mind boggling art in pure granite, carved on a single stone, stands on a sea shore withstanding the wavieries of time and climate. The ancient Shiva Temple that represents the artistic beauty and sculptural excellence of ancient India.