Dear Diary#4 Antardhwani,2015, Day 2

The Annual Fest of the University of Delhi was held from 20-22 February, in the North Campus premises. The theme of this year was 'Meeting the challenges of India'. As being busy on Friday and Sunday, I was able to attend it only at Day 2,i.e Saturday. But to be honest, as this was my first Antardhwani, the experience was over the charts. And I promised myself to visit all the 3 days the next year.

I,along with my friend, reached the 'Rugby Sevens' by 1 O'clock. The fest was at its full hustle. Stalls were set, and so were the volunteers. Just at the entrance was the stall of the 'Department of English', and had a marvelous poster of Shakespeare's head over Arnold's body. The stall, like the other departments' stall, was there to introduce the visitor about the courses offered by them, and also the advantages. Do you know that the ranking of department of English of DU is among the top 100, in world, as per the QS world university rankings? Well you do now.

After this, we visited other departments' stall too. All had worked really hard to make the stall look attractive and appealing. The Psychology department has prepared a 3-D pyramid, explaining the causes, which effects the human psyche , categorizing them personal, social, national, and international. It really forces you to introspect. 

After the departments' stalls, we moved on to the individual college's stall. As we were in the last, Zakir hussain college's came first, and so on and so forth, we reached our college's. The old familiar Cyril was there, with his team's innovative idea,'Fountanium- a hybrid of Fountain and Aquarium'. Basically it was a fountain like structure. And amidst the center pool was a cluster of live tiny fishes, e.g guppies and goldfishes. The idea was to keep the fishes in a natural habitat kind of environment by creating continuous ripples by the fountain. This idea was really initiative and appreciable. 

We moved to the other colleges' stall, but suddenly, an announcement made us look sideways. The central ground was prepared to be the imitation of Kargil war battleground, an act by the NCC cadets. The show was true heart-taking. The precision and the music and the ambiance of war it created was truly admirable. The cadets dresses as soldiers, with guns and grenades defeated the opposite side's soldiers, and captured the base, at the end of which teh tricolor was hoisted, and everyone watching the show was truly feeling patriotic. 

We then made a brief visit to the college's stall, occasionally looking at one or too, whatever took our eye. Soon we were at the other side of grounds, at the multi-purpose hall, where the performances were being continuously held, one after the another. We were right in time to enjoy ourselves a little of local dance styles of Maharashtra's Kuchi-Pudi, Lavani,Koli(fisherman) and Marathi. Also the powerful dance of Punjab was just on the track, and I can literally guarantee that everyone's feet was stepping during it. 

After a heart-full of day, we enjoyed some food, and after relaxing for about half hour in park, we were en route to home. This experience truly awakened our 'Voice Within', the literal meaning of Antardhwani. We will surely visit it next year too, and will cherish the memory we made today for lifetime. And I can't literally end it without a quote. So here it is.

'Life is a journey with problems to solve,lessons to learn, but most of all, experiences to enjoy'- Ritu Ghatourey

Dear Diary#3 Gyanodaya IV- An Educational Trip: We Are One!!!

I first came to know about this from my close friend just prior two days before the selection date. I searched about it and got myself selected in the lucky fifteen students(YIPPEE) chosen for this trip from our college. On 11th march, we were flagged off by hon'ble vice chancellor Dr. Dinesh Singh from the safdarjung station. We were told that the theme of the project is "Urbanization- Now and Then". We are to visit five cities, which once used to be small, but today managed to be one of the best urban models of the country because of their various attributes. We chose our project topic as 'Temple, Trade and Urbanization', as the cities we are to visit possess these aspects. 

Ganga bank in Kanpur

Landfill, to be processed

IIT Kanpur

Our first stop was Kanpur-The Leather City. After visiting a bank of Ganga, which was so polluted by the human and animal waste (GROSS!!!), we visited what seemed to be the mountain of waste. It was a Waste treatment plant, which daily process 900 tonnes (GASP!!) of waste and recycle it for further purposes. This was an impact of the rapid urbanization of the city, as these numbers are increasing month by month. Later, we were shown a presentation in the auditorium of IIT-Kanpur (YEAH!!) about how one classroom grew to be one of the premier institute of technology of India. There many industrialists also made us familiar with the various industries connected with this development. That was for Kanpur. 

Banaras Hindu University

Sarnath Temple, Varanasi

Bhainsasur Ghat, Varanasi

Next stop was the spiritual city of Varanasi. After visiting the BHU, Sarnath temple and Ganga Ghats and various museums showcasing the ancient treasure of the city which promoted so much tourism, as tourism is important for urbanization and growth, we came to know few things. First, that the city is of national importance because of the Ashoka Pillar, secondly the buddhist monks though appreciative of the culture, still wants the city to be further developed. And lastly, that the city is itself a portal, through which you can look on the past, and have a glimpse of future. You should visit this city once. (I should left out the great BEE-ATTACK, which gave us a bitter memory, and also taught us that we should not interfere with nature) 

Bhoj Lake

Sanchi Stupa

Bhimbetka Cave Paintings,Bhopal

Bhimbetka Caves of bhopal have brought the whole early men era right in front of you. These caves have paintings on wall, of cows, sheeps and horses, made by early men. These caves were on mountains, and such construction at that time at this height left us amazed. Sanchi Stupa was the best place according to me, as the serenity of the place penetrated right through my heart and needless to say, others' too. Bhojtaal, which was believed to be build by the King Bhoj, in 'OM' shape, though distorted now, was something to observe that how well has the city authorities maintained it. There was not a single waste product in the water, and again TOURISM!!! 

Lothal Desert, Once a port, Gujarat

Lothal Signboard

Then we entered the Gujarat. The Ad in which BIG B always say,'Kuchh din to gujariye Gujarat mein', flashed. Oh and that was the HOLI day, and yeah that how the day went, you can guess. Full of fun, joy and dance. I realized that my team-mates, as well as of other colleges', we became more than just friends in this trip. We were FAMILIES, and when you are with family, you are right at home. This trip taught us that no matter where you came from, and what may have been the conditions of one's birth, it's irrevelant. What we do as a part of community, that what matters in the end. 

Diamond Industry, Surat

Sabarmati Ashram

Well Surat's diamond industry really sparkled our eyes. The process of diamond making from rough ore to the final product was truelly amazing. I am sure you all now wanted to experience it too. Well, better luck next time. (HAHAHAHAHAHA)

The last visit was one of our prominent freedom fighter's house; the Sabarmati Ashram. Yes, you guessed it correct, Mahatama Gandhi. Whole premises of Ashram was decorated with artifacts of Gandhi. Whether it was his spectacles, his staff, or his charkha. River Sabarmati, one of the cleanest rivers in India, was constantly chanting the great words; Satya, Ahimsa, aur Tyaag. With these teachings of Gandhi, we wrapped up our bags, it was time to make the return journey.

Jokes apart, what I really want to say that the return back journey from the Gujarat to Delhi was something which really taught me something. When I was sitting besides window, and gazing at the vast emptiness of the desert, the scarce settlements and when I turned my head and saw my friends having enjoying themselves, the one who hardly knew each other despite being in the same college for months, I realized that this is what life is about. It is like a journey, on which you meet new people, and complete tasks with them. And at the end of the day, you sit back relaxed and looked across the window over the mountains and think that these all was WORTH IT....!!!!!! I can only end this by my favourite author's few lines.

"I was sad yesterday. I may be sad tomorrow. But today I know that I am happy. And this one lifetime, however long, cannot satisfy me." - RUSKIN BOND

Dear Diary#2 History Tour- Seeing Delhi in Rainbow

11th March was the day chosen for the 'History Tour', organized by none other than Dr. Manish Karmwar Sir (History Dept.). I was just passing by the notice board, when my eyes caught the notice of the trip. I contacted sir as soon as I could. And then the day arrived.

We were to report in college by 8:30 A.M, and after collecting in the bus, we were briefed by Sir, as what this trip is going to be about. A 

journey through various heritage sites, preserving within them years of history and architectural marvels. And so, everyone was quite excited about what the day was about to unfold in front of us. The first stop was the famed Shanti Van.

The landscape was identical to the Windows XP wallpaper, and the ambiance was too calm to easily get mesmerized. A walk to the inner part was all too exciting. Various Engraved stones, informing us about the complex and its constituents and their history. A further expedition brought us to a lake, where a family of swans was baking in the sun. After chasing them down to quite further, we returned to the gate, but not before sir told us to observe the swans, and how swimmers use the techniques of these birds for better swimming. Sure we have to observe nature on a history trip. Thus ended the first step of our journey.

Next stop was the Kotla Firoz Shah (not the stadium!!!). The Feroz Shah Kotla was a fortress built by Sultan Feroz Shah Tughlaq to house his version of Delhi city called Ferozabad. A pristine polished sandstone pillar from the 3rd. century B.C. rises from the palace's crumbling remains. This Mughal structure, spread in a vast area was no less of a marvel, albeit less popular. Most of the structure was in ruins. Only 2 structures were still in a healthy shape, a mosque, and the sky-high inscribed Ashoka Pillar, brought from Punjab and installed here. Several small rooms underneath and surrounding it is used for worshiping spirits.

Next in line was again a garden. But not just any garden, something having bearing royal footsteps. So there we were, standing inside Lodhi Garden! 

Lodhi Gardens is a city park situated in New Delhi, India. Spread over 90 acres it contains, Mohammed Shah's Tomb, Tomb of Sikandar Lodi, Shisha Gumbad and Bara Gumbad, architectural works of the 15th century by Lodhis. 

The inner chamber of these domes was engraved, but contains lots of empty pockets. Sir explained how there were used to be gems, but was looted by the following dynasties. The garden was quite dense; having lot of corners where one would advise you not to go. The garden too had a lake, but unfortunately without any bird, as the water was much dirty. 

By this time, everyone was quite tired, but everyone rejoiced when the name of last landmark was announced. We were about to see one of Delhi's most renowned historical structure- The Humayun's Tomb. 

As the name suggests, it contains the tomb of Mughal king Humanyun, and various others. It was the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent. It was also the first structure to use red sandstone at such a scale. The grand door leading to the pathway to the main tomb was quite a marvel. But the main tomb was something far greater. The grand structure was breath-taking. Various minarets surrounding it, the dome-shaped top and giant doorways, all lead to the magnificence of the structure. The inside chamber of the tomb was designed with white marble, and was painted with fine handmanship. And the reader will be further pleased when I will add the detail, that at this time, a drizzle began. To see the tomb in the rain was to experience the beauty and sanctity of the tomb in another dimension altogether. 

When we were on the premises, a question was well raised by one of the fellow student, that the structures we visited today, especially the tomb, was built by people who wanted to be remembered. But weren't these a big waste of money, and land and labor, when we can build something useful for the common masses? To these, the sir replied-

"You are correct in one way. But the way I see it, all of these are necessary. What is a country without history, and what is history? The record of the cultural transformation of a country. And this culture is what depicted in these monuments. Today, after hundreds of year we stand here, we cannot help but feel what it was like in those dynasties, those times. They give us identity, a national one. They complete our emotional need to escape into the history, and relive it. And thus they are important."

And this ended our journey. On our way back, when the rain stopped, and the sun shone through clouds, far on the horizon was a rainbow. It felt like the rainbow was smiling upon us for this day, spent in the different era, and we couldn't help but sharing that smile on our faces as well. 

Dear Diary #1 My Village, My Home

Sitting in my room, watching my favorite series on my laptop, I was oblivious of everything around me. The random disturbance of the flies were the only distraction. You must be guessing that this quite mood setting is definitely going to lead somewhere disastrous or unexpected. Well you guessed right.

Enters my mom, a lady in her late forties. She blabbered something, because I had my headphones on. The only words I caught at first were, "Your grandmother.....above....have to go." That was strange. My grandmother was already dead 3 years ago. What is she talking about now? I removed my headphones, and stared her. She saw my face, and said,"I just received the phone call. She is dead." That's when it strike. My Real Grandmother was dead, the one who lives in my home-village. Well, LIVED. You must be wondering about two grandmothers. Well to summarize, My real grandmother gave my father to her sister, who was infertile. 

The arrangements were made. We were to leave for my village by 8 pm. Me,mom-dad and my brother, along with other relatives were en route to the village. My village, the one I hadn't seen in years, Nine to be precise.

The journey was a 120 km far. Until we were on the city road, everything was fine. Though it was mid December, the winters hadn't strike yet. so we were in our semi winter clothes. But as soon as we took the turn for our village road, MAN It was CHILLY... The open area on both sides, made the fog even more dense. And it was a nighttime too. The road was to be a 10 km long, and the night, the fog and the alone road was making us hallucinate. It was something you see in a horror film just before the appearance of a white walking ghost!!! The chants were on a leash. Suddenly a rabbit came in front of the car. A white one, and his ears were all the way pointy. It ran in front of our van for some 500 meters, like it came to welcome us. 

Anyways, we reached there by 11 pm. My cousin brother received us in front of his home. I took a look around. Everything was different in appearance, as I recalled from 9 years back. But then it is a long time too. We went inside. Voices of mourning was coming from a room, where the body of my grandmother was laid covered in whites. All the ladies went inside,and I along with my cousins stayed outside.We looked up to the sky. It was crystal clear. We all read about the village or the hills night sky, full of stars. It was there, in all its beauty. I know, you must be wondering Why I am writing about this, when my grandmother is laying dead inside. Well she died at 87 years of age, a pretty well. And died of natural cause, without any pain. So her death was not a subject of sadness to me. Besides I know I have to help in making arrangements for the funeral ceremony, So I cant cry or let myself sob. 

Our sleeping arrangements were made, and I was told to wake up at 6 am sharp. Not a biggie, as I was habitual to rise early. Next day, after all the arrangements (details I wont bore you with), we carried her to the burial place. The burial ceremony went good, but quite in a rush, according to me. Well maybe that's the way village people do. I was the last one to walk off the place. As I was walking, I turned around and saw her burning one last time, capturing that moment both in my heart, and my mobile (Techno-savvy I am).

We were to leave by the evening, and come back again on Sunday, for the Tehrvi, a feast organized in the memory of the deceased one. So till the evening, I was free to roam around. I went up to the roof. All was quite and peaceful. I also wandered in the streets. The houses, all left alone, and build probably 100-200 years back. I am sure the ASI will be happy to dig up these places for excavation. This was something, something connecting me to the village. I was hoping to see my village for such a long time, and today finally got the chance. These streets, these houses, all was a link to the past, the peaceful one. No words are there to describe the scenic beauty. I know, if you all visited these places, the first thing you will complaint about is filth;Not the city plastic waste, but of village's cow dung. Well that's the way it is, what can I do.

The noon passed too, and we climbed up the van. Though I knew I was coming just two days after too, but this moment, this aura in the air of my grandmother, still blessing me, will be over by then. I wanted to absorb it as much as I can. I took one last good look at the door, and with the start of the engine, I bid the house of my grandmother, because next time, It won't be the house of my grandmother, but my cousin, and just my village home, 'cause I was taking my grandmother with me, in my heart, forever.