Silverstag

Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was the founder of the ambitious Maratha Kingdom, way back in the 16th century. A gem of an individual he was – excellent foresight, intelligent strategies for capturing enemy territories, audacious character and a strive to provide justice in his kingdom. The best part of his kingdom, I feel; were the forts that he had built across the mighty ranges of Sahyadris. These forts are the symbol of impeccable architectural skills, something that our architectures in Mumbai today ought to look at. They have stood through the tests of time, and they stand tall and sturdy till this date. Mostly built using a weird combination of limestone, lead, rocks and jaggery; these forts make for perfect one/two day treks, and reflect the careful planning of this great man, which I fail to see in most of our urban architects today. For that, I could challenge the BMC to built a single structure like this, I am quite confident of their failure!
(The photograph depicts a statue of Shivaji Maharaj, with the Raigad fort in the background. Raigad fort was the capital of Maratha kingdom.)

I guess I am really lucky to be born in this world. Moreover, I am so lucky to have a wonderful family who has cared for me since my birth, to have close friends who have been there through my ups and downs. However, I truly realised the significance of these facts, when I joined a social service scheme for 2 years. It was during this era that I truly observed the hardships of living below the poverty line. It was during this era that I understood how different life in the rurals is, compared to the urbane. I also realised how women in these rural areas were far more hard working and revolutionary than men; and I would love to help this strata of the society as far as possible. Simply because giving happiness to others, is by far the most amazing deed that we can do. It’s where true happiness lies, unscrufled by the forces of material influence.

It’s incredible. I have done white water rafting once in the ganges, and I still can’t get over it. The water was freezing cold, and we were told to jump into it!! After swimming around for a while, we were taught how to get aboard a raft without capsizing it. And after we got aboard, our trainee told us about the crocodiles in the river!! Eksss!!! I was petrified at the thought, but it seems they never harm anyone. The rapids were a different experience altogether- it’s the best roller coaster ride ever, and guess what? – it’s 100% natural!!! Go for it, it’s a “silverstag-highly-recommends”!! Amen.