Travel Diaries - Kingdom of Happiness - Bhutan

Bhutan also known as the land of the Thunder Dragon was on my bucket list of places to visit for two very different reasons which somewhere echoes with my views

1. A country which gives a higher importance to Gross National Happiness than GDP
2. A country that cares for nature, grows 100% organic food and is Carbon Negative

Bhu-othan (if in some sense this can be broken - Bhu meaning land and othan/uthan - meaning elevation), this land locked mountain nation sits beneath the lap of the himalayas to the north eastern part of India. A country which barely has a population of 800,000 follows a constitutional monarchy. Being a dominant Bhuddhist country, religion and consititution execution are both unified by the King of Bhutan.

Paro is the main gateway to Bhutan via air and it takes seasoned pilots to land in the world most difficult/scariest airport. Towering cliffs and steap turns along the valleys makes this a bumpy ride into the Paro valley. The fresh burst of clean air and flowing Paro Chuu (Paro river) instantly connects you to this land.

 

Clockwise - Paro airport terminal, runway, inside the terminal, Paro Chhu and Druk Air

Thimpu, capital of Bhutan also boasts of the world tallest Shakyamuni Buddha statue made of bronze sitting at 51.5 meters tall. The view of the valley from the hill can take your breath away.

Clockwise - Parliament and Admin buildings, Shakyamuni Buddha, Stupa at the entrance, Buddha, Thimpu valley below, beautiful statues around the huge courtyard

Nestled between the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu (rivers), Punakha Dzong is the second oldest and largest dzong in Bhutan. This majestic structure amongst many temples also has the sacred remains of Ngawang Namgyal aka Zhabdrung Rinpoche (the unifier of Bhutan). Bhutan has many Dzongs located across the country (which are fortress) and this is one of the most beautiful.

On the way to Punakha, one cannot get over the magestic views from the Dochula pass. On a clear day you see 10 tall peaks of the Himalayas (in Bhutan). The pass is located at an elevation of 3,100 metres and has 100 stupas that give the pass an artistic touch.

A few glimpses of the Punakha Dzong

 

Views from Dochula pass, Stupas and a small family of Yaks :)

The travel to Bhutan couldn't have been complete without being to the Taktsang (tiger's nest) Monastery. According to the legend, it is believed that Guru Rinpoche flew to this location from Tibet on the back of a flaming tigress. This place was consecrated to tame the demon. A trek upthe steep cliff from the base location was a daunting task, but the energy and enthusiasm kept us going.

Trek up Taktsang

It is just not possible to capture this mesmerizing place and its warm hospitatlity in a few pictures or words. One needs to be there and experience it.

At the end of the trip, here is what I thought

1. A country which gives a higher importance to Gross National Happiness than GDP
- The country provides free education and healthcare for all. If you need treatment available outside the country, the state has  it covered.
- Crime rate was at its lowest and sporadic issues were rare.
- Electricity and water was available to all households across the width and height of the nation.
- Monarch did not have a lavish castle nor personal jets. The emphasis was to invest the wealth back to the community and country.

The arrow mark is where the Monark stays - a lot to learn

2. A country that cares for nature, grows 100% organic food and is Carbon Negative

- The country generates 100% electricity from hydroelectric power plants.
- Exports electricity and is a huge revenue earner for the country.
- All produce in the country is organically grown. This is a nation-wide movement and they take pride in it.
- Waste recycling and reduction is key for all.
- Flora and fauna is regarded and everyone feels obliged to protect them.

This trip couldn't have been possible without the amazing team from Heavenly Bhutan (http://www.heavenlybhutan.com/). They were truly professional and made us feel at home. Kudos to Rita, Tek and Passang. We cherished each moment spent in your country and look forward to seeing more.

Until next time Tashi Delek :)

For some moments.

Bhutan Diaries - Moments captured

HOMEMAKERS - Saga of unsung heroes

Taking care of kids, doing dishes, washing clothes, cleaning the home, cooking meals, mending among countless other chores seems like work that should be immediately outsourced. These are not what most of us would not like to do on a daily basis? Wait, what about doing these with a smile and not feeling tired and complaining? Oh not done yet! you will not be remunerated for this?

This is what millions of women worldwide do everyday. I am referring to all the moms, wives, sisters, friends - Homemakers.

Many may say, so what is new? General response - they are housewives (I don't like this word personally) and that is their job. Put yourself in their shoes and just do this for one week. I am sure you will never complain in life again.

We forget and possibly never realize that their sacrifice, effort and ability to juggle multiple tasks turns a house to a home. We seldom remember that they are equally if not more talented than you and me, could have walked out to do a corporate job and left the chores to someone. They made a choice (may be in some cases did not have an option) and took care of the nest where you and I want to come back and feel loved.

Will anything change? Can we make a difference? Yes and yes we can


1. Respect - The least we could do is respect them and their sacrifice. Kind words with some love goes a long way. An acknowledgement of the work done always motivates. This BTW also applies to corporate work and life.

2. Involve - They may not be responsible for the financial needs of a family, but they are responsible for optimally running your finances and reducing cost. Involving and making them a part of home decision making process gives them a sense of pride. You will be shocked to see how many great ideas gets generated.

3. Patience - How often do you get frustrated with work and life at our workplace? Yes we all have our days. It is not easy to manage and run a home 365 days a year with nothing in return. Lending a patient ear is all that is needed to make these heroes feel heard. This helps them to get over the stress and anxiety.

4. Surprises - Try and surprise them as often you can - make the bed, cook a hearty breakfast, make a cup of tea, do something they love. We all want to be loved and pampered. Make them feel special and loved.

We remember the heroes on the border who sacrifice their lives, so that we can live free. Let's start supporting, being there for our homemakers who relentlessly work hard to make the difference in our lives. With their support we are able to reach our professional goals.

It is these unsung heroes in our lives, that have made us what we are and taught us values of life. Imagine a world where we are all free elements and did not have an anchor or fulcrum. The house would never become a home.

A big thank you to all my heroes for making me who I am today. Your sacrifice has made the difference.

Who is your FRIEND?

We all have heard the statement - 'A friend in need is a friend indeed'. This is one among many other quotes, messages and notes that have been shared by intellectuals on friends and friendship.

We meet people at our workplace, school, parties, around of homes etc. and soon our interactions turn into friendship. I always wondered who is a friend? who can be my friend? Can I be a friend of someone?

Here is my interpretation of a FRIEND

Free to be yourself (F) - You are at your utmost comfort level, when you can be yourself and transparent with someone. You are not being judged or assumed.

Respects for who you are (R) - Every human is different, even when you are born to the same parents. It is impossible to then think that you will have someone who is a carbon copy of yourself. Respect and love for who you are, makes the bond between two people stronger.

Intelligent or intellectually gifted (I) - We constantly learn from situations, obstacles, parents, siblings and others. So how easy would it be to learn and get advised from a friend who respects you and let's you be the way you are?

Empathetic and enthusiastic (E) - When your days are not so good, all you need is an empathetic person to listen and boost up your moral. We can't assume that everyday will be bright and full of energy. Enthusiasm is viral and can help overcome low times.

Nourishment to you (N) - We constantly evolve and try hard to do the right thing. However, inertia catches up and that can make us stagnant. Not only self motivation is key but what better to have someone who helps us and is happy seeing you move to the next level.

Dependable (D) - If you have someone who is there when you need the most without any ifs and buts, you need to feel luckiest in this world. This is hard to find as we get so much involved into our own lives that we seldom stop and think for someone else.

A true friend can be your better half, sibling, colleague, senior, junior, classmate or someone who you have met. It is the characteristics of the person that matters most not the relationship that matters. A true friend is a blessing and can help you to be a transformed person.

I remember this great thought - 'Friends like books are few and well chosen'

Would love to get your views and thoughts.

Goa - A different perspective

When one thinks of Goa, the first thing that come to mind are long beaches, partying people, mouth watering seafood and flowing alcoholic beverages.

This is possibly a typical idea of any beach destination which steams with tourist from around the world. Goa was our vacation destination and we wanted to uncover something different. A place that was ruled by Portuguese, Persians and Indian rulers had to have some history and culture to it. 

So we started visiting some of the old chapels and temples. These are more touristy that everyone possibly needs to visit and mark the tick on their bucket list

Bom Jesus & Se Cathedral

Lord Mangueshi, an incarnation of Lord Shiva

After the usual we wanted to head more to the country side and experience the Real Goa, understand the history behind it.

We were lucky to have got connected with "The Local Beat" team (https://www.facebook.com/thelocalbeatgoa/). Mack immediately understood what we wanted and within no time figured out an overall itinerary (some surprises which I didn't know until the trip unfolded).

We headed to Assagao. This village hosts the mysterious Kattor (scissor) monument that’s believed to be 1,000 years old. The walk begins with an introduction of Assagao by Felly Gomes. He takes a lot of pride and explained us the village history, it's rich biodiversity and architectural marvels.

The sights to be seen, range from beautiful Goan mansions, shell windows adorning window panes and gates, to the fruits and berries that grow around this place. Towards the end of the walk, we head back to Felly's garden for a locally prepared authentic Goan lunch and sings along to Goan folk songs.

The Kattor Monument nestled on the hill top

"The Local Beat" is an amazing bunch of guys who specialize in showcasing the finer parts of Goa, its rich culture, tradition and bountiful of options available for tourists who want to see and enjoy a different perspective. Their Instagram page (https://www.instagram.com/thelocalbeat_goa/) shares some more insight.

Lastly the trip couldn't be complete without the visit to a local tile shop based on Mario Miranda's artistic interpretation.

Goa is a mesmerizing place which has something for everyone and leaves a lasting memory until the next time you land at this beautiful place .

Life is a river

Rivers are lifeline to millions who live and thrive along its banks all around the world. Great civilizations have all started from great river banks. So what does all of this have to do with this blog? We all know about this.

When I look at these great rivers of the world, I see there is a synergy between our lives and rivers. How is that? 

Both life (ours) and river have a few stages

1. Early stage or origin
2. Mid-life or flowing through the plains
3. Tail end or dissolving into the oceans

Let me share a few more synergies based on each of these stages

Early stage or origin

Rivers mostly originate in the mountains from melting snow and ice which turns into droplets,  forming small streams, creating rapids crashing against rocks, falling through cliffs gaining speed. They sync-up with other such streams increasing in volume and filling valleys with scintillating sounds.


We are born with very little abilities, learning at a phenomenal pace by 2 years of age, perfecting our motor skills, growing tall and strong ready to start our educational journey in schools. Mingling and interacting with others help us to gain experience and knowledge. From an infant we are shaped into a young energetic person ready to face the challenges of colleges and prepared to enter into a professional journey.

Mid-life or flowing through the plains

From the mountains, rivers flows into plains slowing down its pace but widening itself by cutting new banks, creating new bends and changing course. It meets new rivers from different origin and teams with aquatic life. Brings in precious silt and minerals enriching the plains, providing a more meaningful life to millions. The vast and long plain is where the river spends most of its time.

Our lives too spreads out after college and we diversify into various professional streams, working to learn, earn and provide for ourselves. We meet more of our kinds building new relationships some becoming life long bonds. Knowingly or unknowingly we touch millions with our actions and thoughts. We slow down from our highly energetic teenage life and understand the deeper meaning of life with time.

Tail end or dissolving into the oceans

Passing through the plains, rivers head towards the oceans. The long tale of water from the droplet now is soon coming to an end by dissolving into vast ocean. The pace is at its slowest as it branches out creating a fertile delta supporting many more lives. It looks back at its sweet origin at one end and salty destination on the other.

Our lives after traveling and struggling through the daily chores and responsibilities also slow down and look towards a new purpose. Relishing the sweet memories we keep moving providing a very different perspective to the younger generation.

Unlike the river which knows the finite distance it needs to flow to lose its identity, we don't know when our long journey comes to an end. What we do know is that our identities can leave a striking memory for ages through our deeds. Our actions and thoughts are very powerful. We unknowingly leave an trail on many minds without flowing through it.


Would love to know what my friends feel :)

Soul food - something we often ignore

How often have you heard your friends or colleagues saying - "I don't think I am doing something great", "I am missing something at my workplace", "I need to do something beyond just the work", "I am frustrated and don't think I can do this work beyond a point" etc.

Is it the work content? Is it the compensation or benefits associated? Is it the organization? and so many other possibilities that normally comes to your mind. The logical next step is to start finding solution around identifying and working on alternative, means of fulfilling "basic needs" of the old Maslow's hierarchy, hoping and feeling that this can solve the problem.

Unfortunately it is seldom that one thinks about the psychological and self actualization needs which eventually nurses and heals the soul, leading to immense happiness inside out. Why is that?

1. Any activity or work that you carry to fulfill your basic needs creates an expectation of getting something in return - say money, material, etc. You cannot disassociate that fact. It is not wrong, but that expectation is hard to satisfy your soul as there isn't an upper limit.

2. An activity or work done with some outcome or an expectation in mind possesses a probability of disappointment/dis-satisfaction if the outcome is not in your favour.

3. When the outcome of your work is unknown, your expectation is not predefined in your subconscious mind.

4. Comparison of work content and its outcomes with others is the most detrimental thing for your mind and soul. 

So the obvious next question that comes to mind, what work or activity falls beyond the above?

1. Volunteer work is a great example of contributing time and effort for a cause that excites you or you believe in. You are not expecting anything in return but just willing to help.

2. Helping a person who needs you but you are not expecting anything in return.

3. Supporting or giving to a needy that has possibly nothing and cannot even return anything back to you. Philanthropic actions like this is an act of kindness that goes beyond healing your soul.

4. If nothing else, be nice and kind to others even when they are not. This does not make you weak or small. This makes your soul happy.


This could sound philosophical and ridiculous to many, however there is only a few things that one can do selflessly and achieve the self actualization phase in the journey of life.

Don't wait until the destination, enjoy the journey!!!

I am learning and would love to hear from you all :)

Urban Flooding - Is this a ticking time bomb?

Monsoons are life line for South Asian countries, where more than 50% of the population rely on agriculture for their livelihood. An ever growing population needs all this water to sustain and thrive.

On one hand this monsoon season can be a boon, but can also create havoc and bring in disaster. Off late you hear about urban flooding more frequently than a couple of decades back. Simple answer which comes to mind is global warming, in-efficient systems etc. I wondered what could be the underlying issues? Are we anywhere responsible for this? Can we rectify or reduce the curse during the monsoons?

What is a typical landscape of a large/medium sized city in India or its sub-continent in today's context

1. Ever increasing population pushing the city limits.
2. Fast paced construction of homes, roads, shops, schools, industries, malls, etc. 
3. Decreasing number of trees, green patches, parks and gardens, natural water bodies like lakes, ponds.
4. Sub-optimal drainage/sewer system not designed to handle increasing demand from all it's users.

Have we every thought of the following

1. We have more concrete and paved area than ever before in these cities, every shrinking green and open patches reducing the ability of rain water to seep into mother earth.
2. Construction of drainage and sewer systems happens at the end (sometimes never considered) for any new township or area getting developed.
3. Planning for "Rainy Days" is never considered. We believe in getting something done, not thinking through the impact.
4. Lack of civic sense, garbage disposal system and use of cheap plastic products in various forms adds to the choking/clogging of these drainage system, leading to water logging.
5. Vanishing water bodies and no water catchment plan in place, means inability to hold on to precious rain water for future use.

It is not about the flooding, the loss of property and damages takes a toll on the economy. We are also losing precious ground water around these city which can be catastrophic if we don't have these open patches and ensure a way to replenish this precious commodity -"Fresh Portable Water". You can only out so much.

We all are somewhere responsible and can do our little part along with city planning to ensure these cities don't become just become a concrete jungle. A green and open city will only become the feasible solution to have a comfortable city life.

Would love to get your views and may be some better solutions :). 

Being Happy - A choice you make

"Happiness is a state of mind" is a simple yet powerful statement. Modern fast paced lifestyle, where everyone is rushing and running to achieve something, we seldom stop, think or ask ourselves - what makes me happy?

It might sound bizarre, but many of us may not be able to give a quick simple answer. We often start counting things, people or places that will/can make me feel happy. It can be a challenge to pin point that one thing that makes you happy.

What does happiness mean?

The meaning of happiness differs from each one of us. We often relate it to materialistic pleasures. They certainly bring us the comfort and improves our living condition. Basic food and shelter can bring in the world of happiness to a hungry and poor person whereas driving a Rolls Royce to another. Happiness is that state where your mind, soul and body are in sync and you radiate positive energy. It is not something that you need to search, but you feel and create.

Here are a few pointers that may help to create this positive radiant energy

1. Having an aim / goal is good, but enjoying the journey is key. Don't wait till you reach it. Happiness does not always come at the end

2. Looking at the bright side of any situation makes one more positive, optimistic and happy. Thinking the glass is half full always helps

3. Everyone has their own journey and it is not yours. The sooner we realize this and not compare ours with anyone, makes you more rational and helps you sail through the waves

4. Your reaction to someone's action, will be dictated by your attitude. You could frown and loose your cool or focus on how you could keeping doing better. Choice is yours

5. Being content is important with what you have this moment as there are many who don't have what you take for granted. This does not mean you are not working towards your goal

6. You don't control how others think, work or react. You can only do your bit with the right attitude and frame of mind

7. Humility and being empathetic only makes you feel better. It is not your weakness, but acts as a strength

8. If you are doing something to prove a point, then most likely it is a race and not a journey that will bring in happiness

9. Prioritizing what is most important to you and what will give you the peace of mind. This helps to align and work towards your new objective with ease.

The question is whether we are willing to make the right choices for us. Nothing is impossible if you have the right attitude and willing to chance.

Happiness is within, we just need to nurture it.

Would love to get your thoughts

Diamond Triangle of Odisha - Buddhist Monasteries at Lalitgiri, Ratnagiri and Udayagiri

Bhubaneswar is known as a city of temples and the town of Puri for its majestic shrine of Lord Jagannath.  Many may not have heard that Odisha has been a center of Buddhism and it dates back to the 1st century.
Buddhist monastery complex of the Vajrayan sect called Pashupagiri housed in Lalitgiri, Ratnagiri and Udayagiri. These three Buddhist destinations form the Diamond Triangle of Odisha.

The remains of the rich art, monasteries now nestles within the hills and greens of Lalitgiri, Ratnagiri and Udayagiri. Less than 100 kilometers (60 miles) from the state capital Bhubaneswar, these places take you back in time and show the magnanimity and influence of Buddhism in the Kingdom of Kalinga and under emperor Ashoka.


Lalitagiri : The excavations at Lalitagiri have led to the discovery of the earliest Buddhist complex in the area which dates back to the 1st century AD. Buddhist attractions here include ruins of a large brick monastery, a number of votive stupas and a renovated stone stupa at the top of a small rugged sandstone hill. A museum that exhibits numerous Mahayana sculptures including colossal Buddha figures, huge Boddhisattva statues, statues of Tara, Jambhala and others. Some of the sculptures have brief inscriptions on them.

Ratnagiri : Excavations at Ratnagiri in the Birupa river valley in Jajpur district, have so far been the richest in terms of cultural treasures. There are two large monasteries, a big stupa and numerous votive stupas that indicate towards the powerful impact that Buddhism had in the times of the Gupta king Narasimha Gupta Baladitya (first half of the sixth century A.D.). Buddhism progressed in this region leaps and bounds till the 12th century AD.

Udayagiri : Excavation have unearthed remains of Buddhist brick monastery that perhaps flourished between the period of 7th and 12th century AD. Recently, it has also come to light that the ancient name of the monastery was Madhavpura Mahavira.

A good day trip on a winter morning to help take your mind and soul back in time. From the hustle and bustle of daily city life, you can be in the midst of nature and visualize the rich culture and heritage that India has to offer.