A year older. And, hopefully, wiser.

Greetings from Shalu.

First, and foremost - thank you, from the very bottom of my heart, to everyone, for the birthday wishes. The one which came, some days after the mid of November 2014. Thank you for the blessings, the love, and the care.

Birthdays are very personal, to me. No. Not because of the getting old issue. 

But, because, I truly believe, it is a day you celebrate with loved ones. The family and friends that you genuinely hold close to heart. And, I did, exactly that. 

God and Appa. Thank you for continuing to watch over me. And for blessing me, from up above. 

Amma, my Goddess. The one who makes me realise that heaven will always be a place on earth, as long as I have her, with me. Thank you for the midnight, surprise party. 

Akka. My best friend. My second mom. We share a 13 year gap. But, we are allies. Compatriots. Shopping buddies. Gossip gang. Partners in craziness. 

And, she is my favourite Whatsapp contact. Yes, such a favourite, that we share secret messages, even when in the same room. Thank you for the side dishes for party. Thank you for ensuring a good attendance. 

My brother, Segar. Who remembered. For once. Hahaha.....

Guys rarely keep track of dates and all. So, when he actually called to wish, I found it a little weird and funny. Brothers. They can drive you crazy. He does, too. But, he cares just as much. And, I continue to count on him, anytime of the day. 

Mogan. For one of the earliest wishes. For making me smile from ear to ear. For continuing to be a part of my life. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. 

Inpan and Devaki. My besties in London. For the phone call across the miles. For the messages. For just being there, in my life. You've put our friendship on a pedestal. You're family, guys. And, I love you both as well as the two little ones, so very, very much.

Sivaram. My blog reader. Years have transformed us into Facebook and email friends. Thank you, too, for that surprise phone call, from India. I was truly taken by surprise because you remembered. And not to mention, that sweeter than sweet poem via mail. May God bless you in your new journey of life. And, yes, thanks. Very much appreciated. 

To my besties, who compromise of 5 crazy girls, from my uni days - Thanks. You guys rock. 

To everyone else who is aware of my EXACT birth date, and dropped by to wish, thank you, too.

Yes, I am blessed. Thanks.

Take a piece of the cake. Virtually. That's all that is possible for now.

Signing off,

~Shalu~

Of jots and mugs and zilch songs ..... Happy August !!!

Playing on the stereo in my room, as I am writing this, on replay are this 3 songs - "Yennodu Vaa Vaa" from Neethane En Ponvasantham, "Maalai Mangum Neram" from Rowthiram and "Innum Konjum Neram" from Mariyaan. 
July - was hectic but awesome. It was a blissful 31 day span. 
I had a short vacation in Bali with some girlfriends. 
I was out on a beautiful date with Mogan.
I watched Mariyaan - twice - with my darling sister who has been such a sport, despite not being too fond of Dhanush.
I spent a four day weekend in the capital of Malaysia - Kuala Lumpur - with closest family and friends.
I went furniture hunting - and am weeks away from a new, cushy, cozy and snug sofa. A self chosen fabric one - thus, the wait.
I had lunch at my work desk - on most days. 
I bought my Mom a gift - she has been wanting for some time now. 
I talked to Appa 's soul - every night without fail. I am praying devoutly for something. He is my Other God.
I met an old, humble, well mannered and friendly couple who sell rice for a living at a restaurant in Pitt Street Penang. They made me feel so sheltered.
I got a gift from a friend. A burlap diary. It was cute. I have yet to start jotting.

I love traditional Indian clothes. Churidhars and sarees - especially. My cousin who flew in from India bought me this. From Soch, Chennai. A dark green and pink kurti. Loved it - heaps.

I am keeping my fingers crossed that, August will be wonderful, too. 

I miss so many things. My father - especially. 

And, India. My motherland. The country I so love.....

And these.....

Can I skip a song ? It is getting late into the night, and I want to shut my eyes and dream.
You go do that too.....
Good night. God Bless.

Kanna Kanna from Vathikuchi & my recent watches

First things first. I have to say my apologies. For being such a lazy blogger. I wish I had more time in hand. Free time - that is. To actually, sit and write my heart out. My days are fully occupied. I am not just busy as a bee. I am as busy as a cranberry merchant at Thanksgiving. Yeah. That is how life is at the moment.

My bestie at work was transferred to another department - without any announcement. It was shocking and very much unanticipated. It has been days since we went back together, and I miss her a lot. She is the life of my travelling time. The comic who makes me laugh in barrels. 

And now - both of our jobs have been reassigned. Thus, me being super busy. With her away - I have been delegated to do her job, mine as well as train another staff. And, it gets easily taxing. But, work is work, and despite all the discontent, we just go on with the management's decision. Correct ? Same here.

I managed to watch couple of good Tamil movies. Thaandavam, David, Vattikuchi, Kadal, Chennaiyil Oru Naal. In chronological order. I am supposed to go watch Kedi Billa Killadi Ranga, later in the evening. Keeping my fingers crossed - for this highly recommended comedy. 

So here goes. A speedy review. In point form - short, precise and basic. We have way too many exhausting in depth reviews. I do not want to do the same.

1. Thandavam - I have never liked Vikram. Yes. He is great actor - I know. But, to me, he is plain uninspiring. The only movie of his I enjoyed was Kaasi. And, this. Thandavam was relatively good. An action drama on terrorism with a lot of other issues thrown in. I watched the entire movie in one go. 

2. David - My second attempt. Only due to the fact that - Mogan and I watched it together. I found Bejoy Nambiar's direction uncertain and wavering in most parts. The only good part of it was the ending - which stresses on the moral of forgiving. 

3. Vattikuchi - At the theaters in my hometown. Only 5 of us in an entire cinema. I liked it - nevertheless. For Anjali's spontaneous acting and a funnily quizzical ending. Oops - yes - and those two songs titled, "Kurru Kurru" and "Kanna Kanna" deserve a special mention. I am addicted to the latter. What-A-Song!!!!

4. Kadal - One short sentence. I LOVE, LOVE the movie. I brush off and overlook every single negative review on it. Come on. It was a great movie. A must watch. A Tamil movie zealot's dream. Out of the box theme. Mani Ratnam cannot go wrong. He did not this time, too. I have watched it three times now. Gautham Kartik, who looks very South American, is a star in the making. And, I laud Rajiv Menon for his excellent cinematography. Manapad, Kottayam, Kochi as well as all other locations in the movie- were simply breathtaking. Kadal remains a stellar in my eyes.

5. Chennaiyil Oru Naal - Watched it yesterday. Another great Tamil thriller that kept me on my toes - throughout. With a huge cast and multiple stories entwined tactfully - this is another 2013 must watch.
What else, now that my short reviews are done with ?
Our Tamil New Year - Vijaya - comes a calling next Sunday. I may be away. My dearest brother is constantly using my broadband. Really. I am not making up stories. In fact, it has been weeks since I even went to Facebook. Hopefully, right after this.
Well, back to the Tamil New Year - my advance wishes. God bless - each and everyone of us. And may the year ahead bring us happiness and the best things in life.
To God - Thanks for the blessings. To my late Appa - I miss you - all the time. To my Amma, Akka and Mogan. Thanks. I am no one without you guys. Love always.
Signing off with this song. I am weirdly addicted to it......

Acoustic cover - "Kadhal Sadugudu" - Sathya Mani

Happy New Year, everyone. Belated.

I am back. My very first post for 2013. 

Down with a frail flu, and thus, tucked away in the precincts of my room. 

I was supposed to do so many stuff today. 

Go for that awesome comedy everyone is raving about, titled - "Kanna Laddu Thinna Aasaiya?". 

A brisk walking session with my sister, at the joggers park, which is a 10 minutes drive from home sweet home. You see, I am lousy sportsperson. And, all this hype is only due to the fact that I bought my very first pair of sport shoes. 

A drop by to my regular tailor. He sent me a sms, this morning, reminding me that my saree blouses are ready. 

And, I have not done any of the above mentioned. All I did was rest, on my bed. And, after months - I had a long afternoon catnap.

Saw a poster on these 10 things on tumblr. Found it drawing. And, here I am today, with my version of answers. 

10 different things I want to say to 10 different people right now.

- to Appa, I miss you and continue to love you, every single second.

- to Amma, thanks for standing by me, throughout all these years. Love you, too, but, for me, Appa is STILL number one.

- to Akka, how can I live this life without you ? My ally, my critic - my best girl friend. The one who knows me inside out.

- to Mogan, thanks. I truly do not what else to say.

- to a friend named Sivaram Mayilnanthan, who lives faraway, in my favourite Chennai city, this is a toast to you and an optimistic 2013 that you have promised yourself. Life is never easy. It is up to us to make the best of it.

- to my great girl friends - Jo, Sue, Vino, Rani & Nits, looking forward to our reunion.

- to Mr.MK @ Mu. Karunanidhi - I love Chennai and the rest of Tamil Nadu. Please find me a way to get stationed there. You can make it possible, right ?

- to Shakthisree Gopalan - the singer of that awesome, spellbinding, "Nenjukulle" song. You rock. As in R-O-C-K !!!!!

- to me, myself & I - do not worry over the awful days, rejoice over the wonderful ones.

- to all those racist out there, "Listen, listen, listen - good etiquette is far superior than discrimination....."

9 things about myself.

- I love girlie stuff. Cooking, cleaning, sewing, fashion mags, recipe blogs. 

- I do not bring my mobile phone everywhere. I am NOT dependent on it. 

- My favourite sound is that of the flapping waves, in the midst of dead silence.

- I listen to ARR's "Moongil Thottam" song more than 20 times in a day - for now.

- I LOVE the traditional Indian churidhar & the saree. My all time favourite attire.

- Alaipayuthey is my favourite movie. STILL.

- I bought a book titled, "The Strength of the Sun" by Catherine Chidgey but have yet to find the impulse to read it. Soon, hopefully.

- My favourite colour is yellow. So, is Lord Tirupathi's. 

- I enjoy eating wholemeal bread stuffed with vanilla ice cream and a dash of Hershey's chocolate syrup.

8 ways to win my heart.

- Through my family.

- Waking me up with a romantic, deep throaty, "Good Morning, Sweetheart..."

- Sweet surprises. The little ones. 

- Asking me out on date - to the temple. This is an ultimatum.

- Holding my hands when I least expect it.

- A wink at me, in a sea of crowd. That should make my heart somersault.

- A kiss on the forehead. Another ultimatum.

- An evening over coffee and great conversation.

7 things that cross my mind a lot.

- God & religion.

- Life.

- India.

- India. Again.

- India. Yet, again. By now, you should have known how absorbed I am, about India.

- The well being of my family and loved ones.

- What I intend to do - next.

6 smileys that describe my life right now. Answers at http://www.netlingo.com/smileys.php
- :O
- :-#
- 8(:-)
- :-`|
- })i({
- X/)

5 people who mean a lot to me.

- Appa, Amma, Akka, Mog♥n & my brother.

4 turn offs.

- Racism and comments related to it.

- Cancelling already confirmed plans.

- Bad manners.

- Arrogance.

3 turn ons.

- Displaying love - no matter how plain.
- Great food.
- Illayaraja's music.
2 things I wish I had never done.

- Been rude to my parents during my rebellious teenage years.

- Discontinuing my Grade 7 in piano lessons.

1 confession.
- Hmmm.... I have. Already. To the Almighty Lord. It is a silent prayer, in the form of a heartfelt confession. 
And, this is an acoustic version of a great number from my favourite movie. 
Let the sun shine this 2013 !!!!!
God Bless.....

Vanakkam Vazhavaikkum Chennai from Marina

10.21pm, Saturday. Right now. The time in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. Yes. I am here. In my very favourite city. The weather has been good to us.  Yes!!! The weather has been great. Cloudy. Windy. Just the right amount of sun. Even the feared, Cyclone Mahasen has weakened, say reports. Yippiee Di Yaa Yaa. The exclamation I use when I am in a state of delirium. I am. Right now. I will never be able to explain the amount of happiness that I am feeling at this very moment, now that I am living my days and nights, in the city I hold close to my heart and soul. Neither would anyone be able to measure it. Yes. Yes. Yes. I love this city, heaps. 

Watched Vijay's Deepavali release, "Thuppaki" at PVR Ampa Skywalk. I would not say it is a great watch. Tolerable, simply put. Unlike many of his other movies, which depict him in superhero mode. This was directed by the sensible AR Murugadoss and thankfully, Vijay shown as us, fellow mortals. 

During the movie, they showed trailers of "Kumki" and "Neethane En Ponvasantham". The two movies I am eagerly looking forward to. The ones definitely on fellow zealots list.

My vacation to India is beautiful. From the very first moment, my flight took off. I enjoyed every day that has since passed. And, am looking forward to the remaining days I will have in this awesome city. God's and Appa's presence is nestled in my soul. Mom and my sister are close by. My travel companions. 
With love from Singaara Chennai..... this is Shalu signing off.
p/s : - What better song than this, huh ??? Enjaiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii :-)

Oru Kili Oru Kili from Leelai (2012)

Happy Sunday !!!!! And, Happy Mother's Day - to each and every female, in this world.....
And, to my darling Amma - thanks for everything. My heaven remains beneath your feet. God bless you, always.....
Made Amma, and Akka (my second mum), an eggless Suji Cake. It turned out pretty tasty. Amma gave it 8/10. Akka 9/10. Not too bad, I guess. Thanks to a wonderful website titled Sharmi's Passion and my love for cooking. 

Tea Time - My cuppa tea and pieces of the Suji Cake

The hot from the oven eggless Suji Cake

The side view - of the eggless Suji Cake.

I have been on my toes - yet again. Been super busy since morning. Wanted to catch forty winks but somehow, household duties got in the way. Weird, but I actually enjoy doing them. 
Read a review about the movie from which today's song comes from. Leelai. In fact, I caught a glimpse of it on Sun TV's Top Ten Movies this morning. It was in  fourth place. Looks impressive. Would definitely find a way to watch it and keep you guys updated.
I love this song. And, the way the video has been presented. Done with great taste minus the uproar. Nice.
5 reasons why I chose this song and video clip.
No. 1 - The song. The sentimental flow. The lyrics. Beautiful.
No. 2 - The chemistry and intimacy between the hero and heroine is just amazing. Nothing overboard. Lots of similarity to Alaipayuthey's Snegidhane, noted. Semma romantic.
No. 3 - The heroine and her awesome choice of sarees. The hues and the colours compliment her perfectly. Wow.
No. 4 - The background. Nothing fancy. A fort boarded by the sea. Wonderful. Can someone tell me, where is this? But, India, right?
No. 5 - Every moment in this video rings a "huge" bell.....(yours truly is smiling sheepishly, yet again.....) Every single second of it. Rephrasing. Every single second of it. Nijama, nijama..... (truly, truly). FYI, I awarded Mogan, the Quantum-Leap-from-Workaholic-to-Super-BestFriend-Award, recently. He has yet to be notified. Hahaha. This too, I shall keep you all updated, about.....
Have a great week ahead. See you around. Stay sweet, and safe, ya !!!!!

Idhaya Vaanin Udaya Nilave from Parthiban Kanavu

Happy February !!!!!

So, here I am, on yet another weekday..... An exempted Wednesday night, indeed. 

Tomorrow is not - routine. An offbeat one - rather. 

Accompanying my sister for a medical check up. Sisterhood is about sharing and sacrificing, for one another. And, she, is after all, my closest buddy. My all motherly, sibling..... 

Also, on the cards, is :-

♥ an early Indian breakfast at a posh Indian restaurant, 20 minutes drive from home

♥ a trip to a boutique selling churidhars and sarees

♥ a run to the bank, and

♥ a hop to the shopping mall

Hoping for all the plans to be carried out - in time.....

A few days back, in a program on TV, South Indian songbird, P. Suseela-Ji sang a few lines from this song. Hooked and hyped, I became..... 

A serenading musical arrangement by Vedhpal Varma, with awesome lyrics by Vindhan. This masterpiece was sung by P. Suseela and A.M Raja.....

Tamil is such an intensely romantic and poetic language..... (read : lines in bold and pink)

இதய வானின் உதய நிலவே
எங்கே போகிறாய்
நீ எங்கே போகிறாய்
ஒளியில்லாத உலகம் போல
உள்ளம் இருளுதே
என் உள்ளம் இருளுதே

 
கண்கள் செய்த பாவம்
உன்னை கண்டும் காணாதேங்குதே
கண்டும் காணாதேங்குதே
பாய் விரித்த கப்பல் செல்ல
பாவி நெஞ்சம் துடிக்குதே
பாவி நெஞ்சம் துடிக்குதே

இதய வானின் உதய நிலவே
எங்கே போகிறாய்
நீ எங்கே போகிறாய்

இருளகற்றும் ஒளியென்றென்னை
என்னும் நீ யாரோ
என்னும் நீ யாரோ
கண்டும் காணாதேங்கும் கண்கள்
காதல் கண்களோ .....
காதல் கண்களோ .....

இதய வானின் உதய நிலவே
எங்கே போகிறேன்
நான் எங்கே போகிறேன் 

ஆசை நெஞ்சே நேச கரங்கள்
அணைக்க உன்னை நீளுதே
அணைக்க உன்னை நீளுதே
பறந்து வந்து உன்னை தழுவ
பறந்து வந்து உன்னை தழுவ
பாழும் சிறகு இல்லையே
பாழும் சிறகு இல்லையே

இதய வானின் உதய நிலவே
எங்கே போகிறாய்
நீ எங்கே போகிறாய்

Superrrrrrrrrrrrrr, isn't it ????? 

Good night, folks !!!!!

Sondham Eppodhum Thodarkathaithaan from Praptham

"சொந்தம் எப்போதும் தொடர்கதைதான் முடிவே இல்லாதது
எங்கே சென்றாலும் தேடி இணைக்கும் இனிய கதை இது
என்னை உன்னோடு சேர்த்த தெய்வம் எழுதும் புதுக்கதை இது....." 

And, alas - here, we are, on the final day of the year..... 

It has indeed been one great year. And, I pray the ones ahead would be better - not just for me, but each and everyone of you.....

This post is specially dedicated, with heartfelt thanks to the ones closest to my heart.

The Almighty God - I am so grateful for everything You have bestowed upon me......

My Father - The one who is no more but remains in my heart and thoughts, at all times. My hero. 

My everything. 

My Mother - For patiently putting up with my antiques. And, continuing to treat me like a little girl, which I no more, am. 

My Sister - My comrade. My ally. My second mother. I wish you good health and great happiness. 

Mogan - for being a part of my life and making them sweeter than ever.

My friends, near and dear - for doubling my joy and sharing the pain. 

To every reader of my blog, who has stopped by, intentionally or otherwise, thanks and God Bless !!!

Happy New Year everyone !!! 

Have a fabulous 2012 !!!!

Paathagathi Kannupattu Panchu Panchaa from Kazhugu (2011)

For starters - I didn't know this movie existed. Discovered the song on Behindwood's Top Ten songs - at present time. This is all Yuvan - music and singing, with lyrics by Snegan. A slow moving but affirming number. A beautiful, rustic piece that grows on you - if you are willing to give it an audience.
My first post for December. The last month of the year. So fast. Seems like I just celebrated 2011's New Year. Now, 2012 is less than 30 days away. 
New Year aspires resolutions. Me ? Yet to line - any. The only thing on my mind is - India. Yeah - India, the country where my soul resides. Keeping my fingers crossed for a vacation in late January or early February. India, is the remedy, to my qualms.
A somewhat Saturday. An early wake-up to water the potted plants. Gardening is new interest of mine. A relaxing art. A lunch date with mum and sister, and shopping, there after. 
Churidhars suits charm me. And, punjabi suits, please me. Cotton ones - specifically. I have been getting lots of them. Today, bought a dark brown piece. Last week, got two. One purple. One green. Both cotton. They drain my budget - but make me happy. The latter is so much more important......
Not too late to wish you all a Happy Saturday !!! Do enjoy the weekend .....

Pirai Thedum Iravile from Mayakkam Enna

Ten reasons why I LOVED Mayakkam Enna.
10. The Voda Voda Thooram Kurayilai song visualization. Cleverly hilarious. 
9. The bathroom scene. Dhanush's comically petrified  look upon sighting of the lizard. 
8. Dhanush runs away to Mysore. He returns after a long hiatus. Richa's dialogues. How she missed him. How she begs him to never do that again. The embrace and tears of joy they share. And, along the movie, the stolen looks that Dhanush and Richa constantly share. 
7. Dhanush, chancing upon a grandmother by the road side. He uncovers her beauty - like never before. The happiness on her face. The pride she oozes. 
6. The Kumudham issue with Dhanush's photo shoot of elephants. How the magazine goes through so many hands before being discovered as a masterpiece. It is then, that Dhanush's life takes a quantum leap.
5. The Kathal Kathal Yen Kaathal song. Took me by surprise. I conceptualized Selvaragavan doing something alike Varanam Aayiram's Anjalai song. I was so, so wrong. 
4. The dreadful look of Dhanush upon finding his work plagiarized, by the man he idolizes. He gives brilliant expressions. Believe me, when I tell you, that your heart will skip a beat at this point of the movie. 
3. Merciful Richa's adamancy and determination to stand by her man - come what may. Success in marriage does not come merely through finding the right mate, but through being the right mate. She is one to him. 
2. Dhanush on receiving his first major cheque and assignment. His lifetime dream. A photo shoot for The National Geographic magazine. The ecstatic Richa, upon hearing the great news, heads to the prayer altar, thanks the Almighty, and returns to the hall to find Dhanush sitting at their home entrance with a bottle of alcohol and a jug of plain water. She pauses in despair. He pours down the alcohol. He drinks the water. 
1. The last fifteen minutes. The words Dhanush use to express his gratitude to his friends and wife. Heartwarming. 
This a must watch - if you ask me. So, please do so. Do not let, its slow pace deter you. This movie has so many ponderous charms. 
".......விழியின் அந்த தேடலும்
அலையும் உந்தன் நெஞ்சமும்
புரிந்தாலே போதுமே ஏழு ஜென்மம் தாங்குவேன்........... "

Kannuku Mai Azhagu from Puthiya Mugam

Time flies - faster during the last two months of the year. At least - that is how I feel. Another three day weekend over here, in Malaysia. I have neatly drawn plans. Today. Woke up rather early, despite sleeping late. About 6.45am. Mornings bright early, nowadays. Amma's garden has a blooming Thulsi plant. Plucked the leaves and tied a garland. Not my first attempt on tying one - but, it turned out just the way I wanted it to. 
Also, went to the theater to watch "Mayakam Enna" - with mum, my sister and a cousin. I liked it - a lot. The three of them didn't, though. 
Tomorrow. Need to wake up early, yet again. My beloved sister wants to go shopping - in Penang. I, as always, have been ordered to comply. And, its not like that I do not  fancy purchasing. It is, again, a win-win situation, for us. Sara Corpening, the food writer, asked, "How do people make it through life without a sister?" She could not have questioned better. If you have a sister, you will agree with me - wholeheartedly. 
Monday. Would be, all about unwinding. The original "Mankatha" DVD is in hand. Would like to finally - watch it. Days and days after all its hype has died down. And, settling the needy chores. 
Listen - to this soothing number. Semma feelings .....
"தமிழுக்கு ழா அழகு..... தலைவிக்கு நான் அழகு....." 

Why This Kolaveri Kolaveri Di from 3

I am affirm and attest. I concede and confess. I disclose and declare.
What ? What, what ?? 
That - I am - a Dhanush adherent. A devoted supporter. Any movies of his - is fine with me. He, sweeps me off my feet - with boyish looks, wittiness and indubitable, acting abilities. 
Dhanush, is, at present time, the youngest actor to win the National Film Award for Best Actor. The National Film Award, established in 1954, holds the distinction of awarding merit to the best of overall Indian cinema. A national panel appointed by the government selects the winning entry, and the award ceremony is held in New Delhi, with the President of India presenting them. And, this year he won it, for his absorbing portrayal as KP Karuppu in Aadukalam. 

Today's song is piquant. Pleasing and flavorful. Bizarre lyrics. Next, in the series of anthems that Dhanush has acquainted us to. Otha Sollalaey, Voda Voda, Kathal Yen Kathal and now, Why This Kolaveri Kolaveri Di?

Dhanush, as always, looks super cute throughout this video clip. And, at 02:49 to 03:07, Dhanush steals the limelight, with his zaniness. Watch this, not only for doting on Dhanush, but for the mega hit, it is bound to be.

Mayakkam Enna, Dhanush's next release, which was selected for The South Asian International Film Festival, in New York, is due this November 25th. Looking forward to watch it within its first week of release. 
Have a great week - everyone !!!

Thendral Urangiya Bothum from Petra Maganai Vitta Annai

An older sister is a friend and defender - a listener, conspirator, a counsellor and a sharer of delights. And sorrows too.....

Penang's Free Shuttle & The Star Cruise docked at the pier.

Shopping with my sister has always been awesome. The same, today. My sister, is an Aries. She talks little - unlike me - and exceptional of me and mum. The whole ride to the island and fro, was spent catching up on this' and that's. Sisterhood - so powerful. So, refreshing. 

RM7.00 for entering the island. 1km from my SP.

I have settled my Deepavali shopping. 80%. Only 80% ? How about the remaining 20% ? That - as you know - will never end, until Deepavali day, and the few days after. Women. Do we ever stop shopping ? No. Never. Shopping is a form of excellent therapy - for us, females. 
I also had a gastronomical treat, the whole day through. All healthily, vegetarian. All, Indian. 

Breakfast - Indian styled fried Bee Hoon served with a spicy gravy and a cup of Iced Milo. 

Lunch - White fluffy rice with steamed potatoes, long beans with tofu, ladies finger cooked in curry, beet root, mashed tofu and peas, papadams, rasam, tamarind curry and dhal curry, with Iced Lime Juice served in an ever silver tumbler. 

Tea - A round samosa, a sweet green coloured Indian delicacy and my favourite cup of Madras Coffee @ Filter Coffee. And, a piece of medium sized Laddu. 

Flamboyant, right ? Food is a passion. If you live in Penang, it should be. Penang, is, after all, a food paradise. Name it, and you will be able to get hold of that favourite dish of yours. No joke. Every nook and corner on the island has a special something - for foodies. 

Penang Straits. The Star Cruise in the evening.

I have plenty of work tomorrow. Cleaning, cleaning and more of cleaning. Need to head 

to bed - soon. Sleeping is a luxury. You can not have too much of it. Just a certain amount. Further more, I am not much of a sleepyhead. I am, one who is early to rise. But, not early to bed. 6 hours is sufficient. 

So, good night. Sleep tight. And, sweet dreams.

I do not have a song in mind for today. It is hard searching for one - this time of the hour - when the brain is just thinking about hitting the sack. 

Alas - this is what comes to mind. Enjoy !!!!

Thendral Vanthu Ennai Thodum from Thendrale Ennai Thodu

I was trying the Dynamic View template at Blogger.com. Attempted a few times. They do not allow me to put in the trivial stuff that I so want to. Perhaps, I am not that net savvy, to do the alterations. Whatever. I will try them after my favourite festive season. The Daisypath countdown ticker to Deepavali is a necessity on my blog. If we can have countdowns to New Year, exams and weddings, why not for this, too. I am super glad I have one this year. 
Shopping again, tomorrow. Deepavali shopping, of course. This time around, with my sister. That is the plan as at now - unless she makes a change. Penang's Little India was all abuzz, last Friday, when I went with my two girlfriends. The crowd should be stronger this weekend, taking into account, that the Festival of Lights is just about 11 days away. 
I am listening to Ayayo Nenju Alayuthadi from Aadukalam. On ear phone in full blast. I love this song. It has sentimental values, to me. Super sentimental values. I listened to SPB-Ji sing it live, while I was in Chennai in February 2011. The Pre-Valentine concert at Kamarajar Arangam.
India was a topic, we talked about, recently. Of going together. I cannot imagine any other word which would describe travelling to my favourite country with him in tow, but - perfect. A walk holding hands along Elliot Beach, praying together at Kapaleeswarar Temple, watching a good movie at Satyam's, "Kaadai" briyani for lunch at Anjappar's Pondy Bazaar, dinner at Murugan's Idli Shop and an auto ride around Chennai - come to mind. Hope God reads blogs. Mine, too. This post especially.....
Have a great weekend, everyone !!!!!!

Ennenna Seidhom Ingae From Mayakkam Enna

My Lord Thirupathi 

I am a self confessed fan of Dhanush. An ultraist when it comes to his movies. The guy next door who stole a million hearts - mine included. He is dashing in his own sense. And, someone with a great sense of style - especially of lately. I have always liked him - lots. And, Aadukalam increased that exorbitantly. I was dazed and dumbfounded with his excellent performance. Staggered, startled, stunned. Name it. His perfomance was brilliant. Every expression and demeanor. The National Award for Best Actor he won, is all deserving - undoubtedly. 
I am eagerly waiting for his next big release, Mayakkam Enna. The trailer made me big eyed. Keeping my fingers crossed that it would be a good watch and a massive hit. A Deepavali release, hopefully. I will be on long leave this festive season, so watching it at the theaters, would be something I would love to do. 
Most of the songs in the movie have turned out well. Dhanush, himself, has sung two. I am posting the one by Harish Ragavendra. Something with a sense of spiritualism and devotion. Lyrics score a perfect ten as Harish's nuances. Soothing - especially on a day when the heart is a little burdened. 
What we are is God's gift to us. What we become is our gift to God. ~Eleanor Powell~
God bless!!!!

Engume Anandam from Bale Raman

One of Appa's favourite hum. A classic that you cannot get bored of. Yours truly, too.
Did you know that this movie was released in 1956 in Tamil & Telegu. This song was the masterpiece of Ghantasala Venkateswara Rao. Appa has talked lot of him. Ghantasala. A genius during his era. He must be. If not, how can his compositions still have listening power, despite all these years ?
I have a date tomorrow. No. Not with that super sweet guy named Mogan. It is with two girlfriends. We have planned an evening pre-Deepavali shopping at Penang's famous Little India. The festive atmosphere is already in the air - especially, in that area. I don't have anything in particular, that I want to get. My Deepavali churidar suits and sarees were bought months back, in February 2011, in my favourite country, India. I did see a beautiful, yellow with golden polka dots and puffed sleeves patiala suit some time back, while shopping there, with Akka. Might get it if it is yet to be purchased. It was such an ease to the eyes.
Glad, it is already Thursday, today. Tomorrow, comes, my favourite day. That, too with evening plans.
Take care, God bless - and, ya, enjoy this song. "எங்குமே ஆனந்தம்" - means, happiness every where. Ya. That is how life should be. With happiness, every where. In your heart, soul and mind....
எங்குமே ஆனந்தம்
எங்குமே ஆனந்தம்
ஆனந்தமே ஜீவனின் மகரந்தம்
எங்குமே ஆனந்தம்
மதிவலர் சந்தியா காலம்
கொடிதனில் மலர் குலவிடும் ஜாலம்
குழலோ தரும் மோகன ராகம்

Kumaripennin Ullathile from Engal Veetu Pillai

The song, I tuned in to this morning. A peppy and perky number from yesteryears. Remember humming this song all day long after watching this super hit Makkal Thilagam M.G.R starrer, back then. 

The haze is lighter, today. It would have been a radiant Sunday morning had it not been for the brume. Hope the weather will change for good real soon. The agonies of Mother Earth are aplenty. Thanks to the emergence of  the materialistic mankind. How sad, at times..... 

I plan to do some gardening this evening. It gives me a sense of rejuvenation and exhilaration. Come join me.... 

Karumthulasi leaves (Ocimum tenuiflorum) and an array of green potted plants from Amma's garden.

குமரிப்பெண்ணின் உள்ளத்திலே குடியிருக்க நான் வரவேண்டும்

குடியிருக்க நான் வருவதென்றால் வாடகை என்ன தரவேண்டும்
குமரி பெண்ணின் கைகளிலே காதல் நெஞ்சை தரவேண்டும்
காதல் நெஞ்சை தந்து விட்டு குடியிருக்க நீ வரவேண்டும்

திங்கள் தங்கையாம் தென்றல் தோழியாம்
கன்னி ஊர்வலம் வருவாள்
அவள் உன்னைக்கண்டு உயிர் காதல் கொண்டு
தன் உள்ளம் தன்னையே தருவாள்
நான் அள்ளிக்கொள்ள அவள் பள்ளிக்கொள்ள
சுகம் மெல்ல மெல்லவே புரியும்
கை தொடுவார் தொடாமல் தூக்கம் வருமோ
துணையை தேடி நீ வரலாம்

குமரிப்பெண்ணின் உள்ளத்திலே குடியிருக்க நான் வரவேண்டும்
குடியிருக்க நான் வருவதென்றால் வாடகை என்ன தரவேண்டும்

பூவை என்பதோர் பூவை கண்டதும்
தேவை தேவை என்று வருவேன்
இடை மின்னல் கேட்க நடை அன்னம் கேட்க
அதை உன்னை கேட்டு நான் தருவேன்
கொடுத்தாலும் என்ன எடுத்தாலும் என்ன
ஒரு நாளும் அழகு குறையாது
அந்த அழகே வராமல் ஆசை வருமோ
அமுதும் தேனும் நீ பெரலாம்

குமரிப்பெண்ணின் உள்ளத்திலே குடியிருக்க நான் வரவேண்டும்
குடியிருக்க நான் வருவதென்றால் வாடகை என்ன தரவேண்டும்
குமரி பெண்ணின் கைகளிலே காதல் நெஞ்சை தரவேண்டும்
காதல் நெஞ்சை தந்து விட்டு குடியிருக்க நீ வரவேண்டும்

Nilavenna Pesum from Rani Samyuktha

One from my father's well liked melodies.  I am indebted to him for some many great things in life. The good, positive and honorable ones. 
Deepavali is about a month away. That time of the year, when I miss him more than ever. Yes - I miss him all the time, but the festive season adds fuel to the yearning. Deepavali, with him around, was perfect. The doting and devoted father that he was to me and to us, siblings. All throughout the year. Every day of his life - while he was still around. 
Amma must miss him more than me. It is just that she does not have a channel to pen her feelings - like yours truly. Theirs was love marriage, so I can imagine the intensity of the loss. Relationships are the sustenance of life. The shot in the arm that keeps us going. And, losing them is devastating.....
Saturday afternoon was spent out shopping with my sister. Yet again. She wanted to get a pair of gold earrings. Me - a tag along, as always. Evening was spent watching a favourite movie, Siva Manasula Sakthi, on Sun TV with, mum and my favourite cup of home made coffee - after my Puratasi Sani prayers, of course. 
This is a beautiful, old number. Melodious. And, lyrical. Love is a beautiful feeling. Do not wait for tomorrow to spill that heart of yours. Do it, today. Make someone happy, by confessing the entrails of your soul.....
Have a happy day !!

Naadham En Jeevane from Kathal Oviyam

Song for today:

Reason for choosing this song:
Situation song. The emotional lyrics. The soulful rendition. 
கண்களில் மௌனமோ கோவில் தீபமே.....
ராகங்கள் பாடி வா பன்னீர் மேகமே.....
மார் மீது பூவாகி விழவா.....விழியாகி விடவா.....

The last person who:

1. Slept beside you: My sister. Last Saturday afternoon. We dozed off, on the floor, in front of the TV. 

2. Saw you cry: A person who is no more. My father. Or rather, the photo of him, that sits right beside my bed. 

3. Made you cry: Not a person. A Tamil movie - titled Rowthiram. Last night. I hate sad endings. Especially since the hero and the heroine shared a super romantic moment, minutes before the movie ended sorrowfully. 

4. Went to the movies with you: My sister. Yet, again. 

5. You went to dinner with: A guy named Mogan. A super sweet one. 

6. You talked on the phone: My mum. 

7. Said 'I love you to you and really meant it': My 7 year old nephew. For buying a toy that he had been wanting for so long. 

8. Bought you something: Mum. An avacado. The tasteless but healthy fruit. 

9. Made you laugh: Vadivelu, the comedian, on Aditya Channel. 

10. You thought about more than 3 times a day: My Father. 

11. You kissed? Again, my 7 year old nephew. It had been a while since I saw him, so kissing him, came naturally. 

12. You borrowed something from? My sister. Her Guess bag. 

13. You text messaged on your phone? My best friend. Text messaged a birthday wish. 

Tell Me:
14. Be serious or be funny? Funny. I enjoy being with people who make me laugh.
15. Simple or complicated? Simple. No frills and flounce. Simplicity is such a pleasant thing.
16. Sunrise or sunset? Both - so romantic. Especially - if watched in Kanyakumari.
17. M&M's or Skittles? Hersheys. And, Cadbury's.
18. Sun or rain? Rain. It brings me back to many sweet occasions. Sun, when I am out and about.
19. Do you make your bed daily? Of course.
20. What jewelry do you wear? All platinum - a pair of earrings and a chain with a clover pendant.
21. Bought something you didn't need: A dress that I have yet to wear. It has been more than 6 months now.
22. Sang in front of people: Ya. In front of mum - all the time.
23. Missed someone: My father - again. And, lots.
24. The phone rings; who do you want it to be? Read my posts. You will be able to figure out..... 5 dots, for 5 alphabets that start with M and end with N. Enough said.
25. In a social setting, are you more of a talker or a listener? An in between

Naan Yaar Yaar Endru from Pattanatthil Bhootham

A Kannadasan 1967 masterpiece. And, sung with emotions, by the legendary P. Suseela. 
Tamil songs are a wonder. Right from the first talkie in 1931 - Kalidas. Until the recent release of Anjana Ali Khan's Veppam.
I cannot remember watching this movie. Ever. I have, lots of old movies. Including, Kalidas. But Pattanatthil Bhootham does not ring a bell. I will, one of these days, if they show it on TV. But, the chances are scarce. The Tamil movie industry is vast. And, losing count of what we have watched and have not, is common. 
It is Friday - back again. I adore this day of the week, heaps. Lounging at home, for the next two days, will be heavenly. I have no plans, as at yet. Touch wood. My sister has this weird instinct of dragging me, everywhere she goes. 
We have lots of national holidays awaiting - at the end of the month. One state holiday, next week. And, come mid September, on the cards, is an island getaway with some girlfriends. 
Life is beautiful if you learn to be an optimist. If you learn to search for the silver linings instead of sulking over the dark clouds. Life is beautiful - if you make it so. 
If your mum is at home, and has cooked a dish, however simple, tell her you absolutely, loved it. Thank her. See her smile. It would be worth all the world. 
If you are living far away from her, give her a call. Tell her you miss her food. And, her presence. Listen to her voice, smile. 
If she is no more around, look up to the starry sky, and say a prayer. Her soul, shall, smile....
God bless !! May this Friday be a sweet one - for all of us. Cheers!!