Happy New Year 2017 !!

Greetings everyone.
First post. New Year 2017. And, as you all know, it's being dedicated to the greatest love of my life - my Dad. My Appa. My everything.
I begin with random ranting. In point format. It's easier to digest.
* Appa called me Kannama. It's a fiercely guarded pet name. No one gets to call me so, easily. If I smile when you call me so, then, yes !! - you are in my favourite people category. If I don't and reprimand you about it, I'm courteously asking you not to. Ever. Call. Me. So.
* Happy New Year 2017 everyone. Here's wishing all, another 365 days of happiness, good health and prosperity.
* I have hit more than 100,000 web views on my Blogspot. Unfortunately, the last I wrote was in mid August 2015. And, after a 13 month gap, I am doing today. It was inspired by the gratitude I wanted to give so many people in life. The ones who stand strong by me. Thanks again. You guys know who you are.
* I am a Scorpio. If you have read my earlier posts, you would have known by now, that relationships are Numero Uno to me. Some things money will never be able to buy. Good honest genuine relationships are one of them. Think about it. And sort your priorities.
* Kathalum Kadanthu Pogum. It was the movie I watched on recently Loved it. Every minute of it. Vijay Sethupathi & Madonna Sebastian amazed me from minute one till the last. I'll blog about it on soon. It's a lovely movie and I want to spread the word around.
* The plan is to write at least 4 posts per month. Hopefully, fingers crossed, I will diligently keep up. Inspiration needed.
* My 7th point. 7 is a lucky number. It's associated with Lord Tirumala, thus the extra significance. Vaikunda Ekadasi comes this Sunday. Say your prayers. Life is short. Make the best of it. Tell the people that matter how much you love them. Shower them with care and affection. And, tone down your anger level. It ain't cute and it ain't healthy either. Sow love. Reap love.
This is for now. This is for Appa. Everything in my life is a reflection of what he has given me.
Take care. God bless.
This is Shalu signing off, with love. Remember, be kind to everyone you meet. Sow love. Reap love. Xoxo.

 P/S :- Appa introduced this magical 1957 classic number to me. I'm not embarrassed to say I so, so love this song. It's a masterpiece. You have to let it sink in, gradually.  Ask me one of my favourite things, and I will definitely name you this song.

Mother's Day - For Amma & Appa. Kaatru Veliyil from Un Samayal Araiyil.

I'm breaking the norm. 

Here's wishing not only my Mom, but also my dearest Dad, up in heaven, a very blessed Mother’s Day. 

It took both of them to raise me. To be what I am today. It’s undeniable that a family runs solely because of a mother’s sacrifice and dedication. And, in ours, my father played an equally strong part. 

Yes, I say, “Amma” first, whenever I fall. Yes, it's Amma that I confide in anything, and everything. Oh, yes - it's Amma this and Amma that. 

But, my father – my Appa – he ruled my world. 

He still does. He always will. 

My Heavenly Mother. 

The one I carry in my heart at all times, and everywhere I go. 

So, here's ALSO wishing all the great guys who are totally supportive of their moms and wives and girlfriends, a Happy Mother’s Day. 

For my fellow women – A Blessed Mother’s Day, TOO. ;)

What-A-Song. Illayaraja. Sung by himself. From an awesome movie. Listen on loop - you will fall head over heals with this one. :-)

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~

Kannamaa, is what my father called me. The Jigarthanda song.

Greetings.

It's drizzling over here. Not warm neither cold, but definitely better than dry and humid.
I have been down with the fever, flu and sore throat for the past one week and more. 
Visited the doctor, thrice. Yes, thrice. The last, being yesterday night.
My temperature was at 39.5 to 40 degrees Celsius high, so the doctor gave me 2 injections.
One for the fever and the other for the throat infection. 
I am half recovered now. The is a slight running nose and a lesser than mild cough, but way better than what I was the whole of last week.
And, for the first time in days, I slept well. 
I miss Appa, especially at moments like these. Amma is a wonderful caretaker, nevertheless. All 100%. She made me rice porridge. She poached eggs. She made Chinese noodles. And bought me, fresh coconut water. I am being pampered to the max. But, I miss Appa, despite all.....

Kannamaa, is how Appa called, me. I still raise eyes if someone does so, out of the blue. 
It's equalent to being called the Queen. The exact way Appa doted upon me. Like a Queen. I have no doubt that even Amma and Akka were second to me. I was, definitely, the only apple of his eye. And, that is the plain truth.....

I enjoy this song. It's a little eccentric, though. I was suppose to watch the movie at the theatres recently, but had to make way for something else. Everyone is raving about it. And, I am a big fan of Naalaya Iyakunar contestants. Karthik Subburaj, the director is one. And there is also the young talents comprising of Siddarth, Lakshmi Menon and Bobby Simha. People who ACTUALLY act, not flaunt. So, more reasons to watch this movie.....

Signing of, now. 
Take care. God bless.
Sleepy..... Thanks to all the medication. 

p/s :- using an iPad to blog is like using a GPS tracker in the Sahara Desert. Or perhaps I am not too Internet savvy especially with iOS devices. 

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.

For Appa ! Life is a song ! He is mine !

Another early Sunday. It is barely 7.30 am. I have taken my bath and said my prayers. Minutes ago - I was standing in front of his framed picture, in the prayer room - wishing him. It is Father's Day. And, it is a little special.
Now - I am in my room. The sun has risen - big and bright. It is a beautiful day.
Appa - Happy Father's Day !! It does not matter that you are not around, in person. You are in soul. In my soul. In every nook and corner of my heart. You always will. I love you beyond words. All the honorable words in the dictionary will never be enough to celebrate and laud you.

Appa - I am starting at "I love you !!!!!" Heaps. Tonnes. Infinitely. 

Appa - I miss you. Very, very much. I always will. You were and will continue to be my hero. My ultimate hero. 

I am what I am today - ALL - because of you.
You taught me to be nice to the people in my life.
You taught me to humble and never forget my roots.
You taught me to appreciate life.
You taught me to praise a good deed.
You taught me to love.
You taught me to be faithful.
You taught me that money is always secondary - to love and family and the best things in life.
You taught me to respect and take good care of Amma.
You taught me to put God and Amma on the highest pedestal. (and I learned to put you, higher above them.....)
You taught me to enjoy being called "Kannamah".
You taught me to constantly seek knowledge.
You taught me to never hurt another.
You taught me to adore my Tamil language.
You taught me to appreciate G. Ramanathan's everlasting music compositions.
You taught me to laugh over Chandrababu songs.
You taught me to wake up with a smile on my face.
You taught me to retire to bed with gratefulness.
You taught me to look up at the sky and make a wish. You taught me to believe in that wish.
You taught me to pray.
You taught me to seek forgiveness when I was wrong.
You taught me to forgive when hurt.
You taught me to respect elders.
You taught me to love books.
You taught me life.
You taught me life and the million things attached, to it.
You STILL teach me, Appa. From heaven above. You teach me that love never dies.
You teach me that, a father is always a girl's first hero. You are. Mine. My super, super hero..... You teach me that we NEVER stop missing the most important people in our lives.
You teach me that patience is indeed beautiful...... and, I shall wait patiently for the day I join you.
Appa - I miss you so much. So, so much.
Appa - I love you. With every breath of my heart. I always will......
Appa - I do not need Father's Day to wish you. You know, you are the greatest father, to me.
My bedside table has a picture of you, carrying me in your arms. The first picture I look at, the first thing in the morning. I tell you I love you everyday. Every single day. Today, too.....
Thanks for watching over me - even at this second.....
Love always,
~Your Kannamah~
p/s : - I do not need a song, Appa. You are my song. You are the happiest song of my life. You will always be........

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 :-)

Swasathil Theeyai from Unnodu Oru Naal

.....தீண்டாமல் தீண்டி போகும் வாடை காற்றே

தூக்கம் தீர்ந்து நாட்கள் ஆச்சு

உன் வாசம் என்னில் பட்டும் வாடி போனேன்

வாசல் தூணாய் நானும் ஆனேன்.....

~For Mog♥n~

Ya - that's EXACTLY how I am right now. A வாசல் தூண். A pillar who waits in silence and with patience - at the entrance of the home - for the return of its owner.....

I got up at the break of dawn - with thoughts of him. Him, that I so miss. Not as much as what I miss Appa - but lots as in lots, lots - for someone who does not share a biological relationship with me.....

I miss his intense stares. I miss his warm smile. I miss cheeky wink. I miss his artful teasing. I miss his simplicity and coy. I miss his voice and that loud, hearty laughter. I miss him holding my hands. I miss - everything - about him.

It feels better now that I have penned all these down. He is someone who works hard and diligently. There is littlest chance of him reading this. Mushy feelings is not his cup of tea. But fret not (I am telling myself), at least people who stop by to read this will. Right ? That itself is cheer and comfort.....

One day, when he, eventually, stops by my blog, reads this post and sees the picture of these tea lights, he will know - how much he means to me and will continue to. Love, after all, is patient and protects, trusts, hopes and always perseveres. 

I am listening to this beautiful number from a yet to be released movie titled Unnodu Oru Naal. Chinmayi blows my mind. The songs lyrics tingle my spine. Wowwww.... What-A-Song ??? Unequivocally for my present situation. My sentimental soup song.....
Going out for lunch, with Amma and Akka. Everything returns to norm, tomorrow. The long weekend bids goodbye, this evening.....
Take care, God Bless.
Appa - Miss ya like crazy..... Mog♥n - You too.....(and this song is all for you).....
See ya around !!!!!
With lots of ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥,
~Shalu~

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 !!!!!!

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

Thunbam Nergayil Yazh Eduthu from Orr Iravu

Wow - is all I have to say about this Bharathidasan masterpiece. One unmitigated number that emphasizes on the beauty of Tamil. A lullaby that affirms its sweetness. I am so thankful to Appa for being adamant about me learning Tamil. I remember shying away from this Dravidian language when I was much younger, when English was the 'it' jargon. Now, years later - I am indebted wholeheartedly to his then, insistence. How else could I appreciate magical lyrics like these, had I not learned this great language? So, here goes - Thanks Appa - for instilling me with monumental passion and respect towards my mother tongue, Tamil. Tuesday is here. Mark it as a terrific one. It will. Life is ALWAYS about seeing the bright side. துன்பம் நேர்கையில் யாழ் எடுத்து நீ இன்பம் சேர்க்க மாட்டாயா? - எமக் கின்பம் சேர்க்க மாட்டாயா? - நல் அன்பிலா நெஞ்சில் தமிழில் பாடி நீ அல்லல் நீக்க மாட்டாயா? - கண்ணே அல்லல் நீக்க மாட்டாயா? வன்பும் எளிமையும் சூழும் நாட்டிலே வாழ்வின் உணர்வு சேர்க்க - எம் வாழ்வின் உணர்வு சேர்க்க - நீ அன்றை நற்றமிழ்க் கூத்தின் முறையினால் ஆடிக் காட்ட மாட்டாயா? கண்ணே ஆடிக் காட்ட மாட்டாயா? அறமிதென்றும் யாம் மறமிதென்றுமே அறிகிலாத போது - யாம் அறிகிலாத போது - தமிழ் இறைவனாரின் திருக்குறளிலே ஒரு சொல் இயம்பிக் காட்ட மாட்டாயா? - நீ இயம்பிக் காட்ட மாட்டாயா? புறம் இதென்றும் நல் அகம் இதென்றுமே புலவர் கண்ட நூலின் - தமிழ்ப் புலவர் கண்ட நூலின் - நல் திறமை காட்டி உனை ஈன்ற எம்உயிர்ச் செல்வம் ஆகமாட்டாயா? தமிழ்ச் செல்வம் ஆக மாட்டாயா?

Yaar Veetil Roja from Idhayam Oru Kovil

Ha sido un tiempo... That's "been a while", in Spanish. Ya. I guess, it has. Been a while - since my last post. 

Appa's death anniversary, was last 3rd September. Hence, me being a little, morose. I miss him. All the time. Greater during that week. The hours, days and years I could have shared with him..... 

I woke up, around 7.05am, to the sound of heavy rain and the comfort of cool breeze. TGIS. That was exactly what ran through my head. Thank God It's Saturday. Hinting and suggesting - I was entitled to sleep a little longer. How nice. How fair. And, despite feeling dopey and slumberous, I reached out for my I-Pod, and plugged my ears with, what else, but Maalai Mangum Neram. Contradicting. "Maalai" is night in Tamil. Here, morning had just emerged. But, the situation was just so, right. The essential song for a rainy morning when the heart feels  schmaltzy. Vintage material - in other words. 

Today's song comes from Idhayam Oru Kovil. Chosen for these particular lyrics, :-
ராகங்கள் நூறு அவர் கொடுப்பார்
கீதங்கள் நூறு அவர் தொடுத்தார்
ஜீவன் அங்கே என்னை தேடும்
பாடல் இங்கே காற்றில் ஓடும்
காணாமல் கண்கள் நோகின்றதோ.....
தெய்வம் இல்லை என்று போகுமோ.....

Cheers, good day and enjoy !!!

p/s - The roses, thulsi leaves and jasmines are all fresh from Amma's garden. யார் வீட்டில் ரோஜா பூ பூத்ததோ ???? என் வீட்டில் ... என் மனதில்.....

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

Maalai Mangum Neram from Rowthiram (Video Clip)

உன் கைகள் என்னை தொட்டு போடும் கோலம்

வாழ்வின் எல்லை தேடும் தேடும்.....

தாலாட்டை கண்ணில் சொன்ன ஆணும் நீ தான்

காலம் நேரம் தாண்டி வாழ்வோம்......

26th August 2011. The day that put me in a state of amazement.

Rain. We have been somehow, constantly linked to it. Today, yet again. We walked in the drizzle. The moments we shared were immensely beautiful. Flawlessly winning. Words to describe them - would be bereft and insufficient. 
He is blessed with many of Appa's traits and mannerisms. The nurturing, the concerns, the work diligence,  the flippancy, the simplicity and forthrightness. The list goes on. 

I am crazily hooked on this song. More so ever, since watching the video clip on Sun Music. This post is being written with this song in replay, plugged to my ears. 

This is what I wanted to tell him, this evening, while we were together.....

Mog♥n,

~ You remind me of Appa. Lots. I like that.

~ I am extremely proud of you, for being hardworking, dedicated and very involved in your work. 

~ For being brave enough to hold my hand. Thanks, one million times. 

Again - this song, is for you. Only you. Always, you.

En Idhayam Ithuvarai from Singam

This post, is all, for my father – my inspiration, my life - despite being up there in heaven.

Exactly a month, ago. But the memories are as fresh as the morning’s first dew. 

22^nd July 2011 – was heavenly. I wish you were around. You would have been the first person I would have blurted all to… The one, I would have run to, and shared, every single detail, with… He bowled me over with his simplicity. Ya, pa. He seems very simple. I like that. Very much. No frills. No flair. Just him, being himself. All, unpretentious. Totally connected. The moments were with him, and yet, the memories were of you. He coaxes me into eating – lots. Just like you. He convinces me into tasting his share. He unwittingly, teaches me that sharing is actually beautiful. Again - so, like you…..

I am plain, speechless…

p/s – Wish you were around, to meet him. I have no doubt – you would have liked and adored him, just as much as I…

I miss you, Pa. Lots. You are always in prayers. Forever in my thoughts….. Keep me, in yours, too. 

என் இதயம் இதுவரை துடித்ததில்லை

இப்போ துடிக்கிறதே

என் மனசு இதுவரை பறந்ததில்லை
இப்போ பறக்கிறதே
இது எதனால் எதனால் தெரியவில்லை
அதனால் பிடிக்கிறதே
இது சுகமா வலியா புரியவில்லை
கொஞ்சம் சுகமும் கொஞ்சம் வலியும் சேர்ந்து துரத்துகிறதே.....
கூட்டத்திலே நின்றாலும்

உன்னையே தேடுது கண்கள்
ஒற்றையாய் போனாலும்
உன்னுடன் நடக்குது கால்கள்
அச்சமே இல்லாத பேச்சிலே
மயங்குது நெஞ்சம்
மிச்சமே இல்லாமல் உன்னிடம்
வந்தேன் தஞ்சம்
தாவணி மோதியே சாயுதே தேரடி
ரெண்டடி நாலடி நூறடி இழுத்தாய்.....
உன்னிடம் எப்போதும் உரிமையாய்

பழகிட வேண்டும்
பழகிட வேண்டும்
வைரமே ஆனாலும்
தினம் தினம் தொலைத்திட தூண்டும்
இதுவரை என்நெஞ்சில்
இல்லவே இல்லை பயங்கள்
இரண்டு நாள் பார்த்தேனே
மிரட்டுதே உந்தன் குணங்கள்
இத்தனை நாட்களாய்
படுத்ததும் உறங்கினேன்
இரண்டு நாள் கனவிலே உன்னைக் கண்டு விழித்தேன்.....
என் இதயம் இதுவரை துடித்ததில்லை

இப்போ துடிக்கிறதே
என் மனசு இதுவரை பறந்ததில்லை
இப்போ பறக்கிறதே.....

Malarum Vaan Nilavum from Mahakavi Kalidas (1966)

Love at first listen. This song - was to me. And, not to mention, the apt lyrics. 
This 1966 release is on Mahakavi Kalidas, the renowned classical Sanskrit writer. Too young to appreciate a vintage like this ? Age is a mere number. Old songs, a wonder. I have to thank Appa for instilling this passion for beautiful, yesteryear songs. That, all come, with equally mind blowing lyrics.
The pinings of love - so flawlessly and meticulously written. And, sung. This is what, we call an evergreen. Years will never be able to lull songs like these.

மலரும் வான் நிலவும் சிந்தும்
அழகெல்லாம் உன் எழில் வண்ணமே
குழலும் யாழிசையும்
கொஞ்சும் ஒலியெல்லாம் உன் குரல் வண்ணமே

கனவில் தோன்றி சிரித்து சிரித்து நான்
காணும் இடமெங்கும் இருக்கின்றாய்
கனவில் தோன்றி சிரித்து சிரித்து நான்
காணும் இடமெங்கும் இருக்கின்றாய்
கனியில் ரசமாய் இனித்து இனித்து என்
கையில் கிடைக்காமல் மறைகின்றாய்
கனியில் ரசமாய் இனித்து இனித்து என்
கையில் கிடைக்காமல் மறைகின்றாய்
கையில் கிடைக்காமல் மறைகின்றாய்

மலரும் வான் நிலவும் சிந்தும்
அழகெல்லாம் உன் எழில் வண்ணமே
குழலும் யாழிசையும்
கொஞ்சும் ஒலியெல்லாம் உன் குரல் வண்ணமே

மனதில் கவிதை வரைந்து வரைந்து என்னை
மயங்கச் செய்வதும் கேளிக்கையோ?
மனதில் கவிதை வரைந்து வரைந்து என்னை
மயங்கச் செய்வதும் கேளிக்கையோ?
தனிமைத் துயரில் தவிக்கத் தவிக்க - என்
தலைவா உனக்கிது வேடிக்கையோ?
தலைவா உனக்கிது வேடிக்கையோ?

மலரும் வான் நிலவும் சிந்தும்
அழகெல்லாம் உன் எழில் வண்ணமே
குழலும் யாழிசையும்
கொஞ்சும் ஒலியெல்லாம் உன் குரல் வண்ணமே.....

Uppu Kallu from Karupusamy Kuthagaikaarar

The heart has reasons that reason does not understand  ~Jacques Benigne Bossuel~
It does, doesn't it.? The heart, and its elaborate sentiments. Clueless - most of us are - when it comes to the matters of the heart. Right? Right? 

A beautiful, windy and cloudy Saturday morning over here. Looks like rain is about to visit any moment. Breezing into my room, is the smell of fresh soil. Nature is awesomely beautiful. 

I miss my father. I miss him all the time. A little bit more, today. I got up, about 7am - with him uppermost, in mind. My father. My Appa. The most compassionate person I have ever known. The one who taught me to always love, but never hate. The one who nurtured me to value a person by their heart. 

I, so, wish, he was still around. Around, to meet Mogan. The one who reminded me so much of him, while we were out - recently....

This beautiful number is solely dedicated to the memory of my beloved father and of course, Mogan.....

Cheers....!!! Happy, Happy Saturday... !!!!

உப்பு கல்லு தண்ணீருக்கு ஏக்கப் பட்டது - என் கண்ணு ரெண்டும் கண்ணீருக்கு வாக்கப்பட்டது...    (அப்பாவின் நினைவில்.....)

ஒத்தை சொல்லு புத்திக்குள்ள மாட்டிக்கிட்டது - நீ தப்பி செல்ல கூடாதுன்னு கேட்டு கிட்டது....   (என்னுடைய "அவரின்" ஞாபகங்கள்... காரைக்குடியின் நினைவுகள் என்னை தாக்க...)

இது கனவா... இல்லை நெஜமா... தற்செயலா... தந்தை செயலா...
நானும் இங்கு நானும் இல்லையே...  (புரியவில்லை...)
ஏதும் இல்லை வண்ணம் என்று நானும் வாடினேன் - நீ ஏழு வண்ண வானவில்லாய் என்னை மாற்றினாய்.....(மாற்றினாய்....நானும் மாற்றினேன்..)
தந்தையும் இல்லை என்று உள்ளம் நேற்று ஏங்கினேன் - நீ தேடி வந்து நெய்த அன்பால் நெஞ்சை தாக்கினாய்..... (உங்கள் அன்பாலே என்னை தாக்கினாய்)
கத்தியின்றி ரத்தமின்றி காயம்பட்டவள், உன் கண்கள் செய்த வைத்தியத்தால் நன்மை அடைகிறேன்..... (அந்த அன்பு நிறைந்த கண்கள்....)
மிச்சம் இன்றி மீதம் இன்றி சேதப்பட்டவள், உன் நிழல் கொடுத்த தைரியத்தால் உண்மை அறிகிறேன்..... (ஆம், உண்மை அறிகிறேன் - ஆனாலும் சொல்லாமல் தவிக்கிறேன்)
மீசை வைத்த தந்தை போல உன்னைக் காண்கிறேன் - நீ பேசுகின்ற வார்த்தை எல்லாம் வேதம் ஆகுதே ....(வேதம் ஆகுது, நினைவில் நிற்கிறது..)
பாழடைந்த வீடு போல அன்று தோன்றினேன் - உன் பார்வை பட்ட காரணத்தால் கோலம் மாறுதே ... (மாறினேன்....மாற்றுகிறேன்...)
கட்டில் உண்டு மெத்தை உண்டு ஆன போதிலும் உன் பாசம் கண்டு தூங்கவில்லை எனது விழிகளே... (நிஜமாகவே உங்கள் பாசம் கண்டு தூங்கவில்லை எனது விழிகள்... நீங்கள் வந்த பிறகுதான் எந்தன் விழிகள் தூங்கும்....)
தென்றல் உண்டு திங்கள் உண்டு ஆன போதிலும் கண் நாளும் இங்கு தீண்டவில்லை உனது நினைவிலே... (உங்கள் நினைவுகள்... என்னைவிட்டு என்றும் நீங்காது....)

Munbe Vaa from Jillendru Oru Kathal

Am listening to this song right now. The first 8 seconds of the song, puts a big smile on my face. So, does 2:53-2:55. It has been about two weeks now. Since that significant evening - when I was knocked over with physicality as light as feather, and emotions as heavy as a bag of sand. Knocked over, and yet, all delirious..... I miss my father. I always miss him. The years gone by have never been able to take away my yearning over him. He is the first person I wake up to, in the morning. Ya. His photo sits on my bed table. And, the first five minutes or so of the dawn, is spent talking to him. I wish he had not left, so soon. He could have stayed longer. But God had other plans, I guess..... 
Have a blessed Saturday !!!