The Lonesome Road

Abhiruchi 07, originally uploaded by shadowfall.

We had a major family reunion over this long weekend - and it was a blast. It’s always fun to hang out with relatives - and it’s been a long time since we’ve all been together.

As part of the Pune program, all thirteen of us went to Abhiruchi [abhiruchivillage.com] for lunch last afternoon.

If you are in/ planning to visit Pune, I’d seriously recommend a visit to this farm/restaurant. It’s a sprawling place where the owners grow fruits and vegetables without the use of artificial fertilizers and pesticides. The fertilizer used is organic and includes the use of vermiculture (earthworms).

The produce grown on the farm is used to make the meals that are served. Believe me - it’s piping hot and fresh food - and as much as you can eat. Once the meal is done, there are a lot of trails where you can simply wander all over the farm. Hammocks, cots and swings are also provided for the siesta most people need after their lunch . On a personal note, I’d recommend a walk. The area has a lot of green cover and a very peaceful hour can be spent ambling along the trails.

I took a bunch of photos - they can be seen here. [flickr.com]. As usual, most of them are of flowers and plants

On a different note, today is India’s Independence day. But from what I have noticed, people seem to be missing the point of it all. Here’s a quick refresher course.

Freedom is not the right to :
Insult the Flag
Break a traffic light
Litter the road
Bribe a cop
Spit where you feel like
Drive like a maniac

The list can simply go on. The sad part of the matter is that we are all one day patriots. I wrote about this last year - and I’ll say it again. We guys should not be allowed to display the flag on private property. Invariably, the next day finds all the flags bought in the fervor of patriotism lying muddied on the road. A lot of people died to achieve and preserve our independence. Let’s not let it all go in waste. Remember, Freedom is understood best only when it is lost.

Anyway, shifting gears again - you can find a more upbeat article about today here [yavin4.blogspot.com]. It’s a nice article - and makes me happy to be Indian.

Jai Hind!