Ifs & buts

It’s been quiet sometime that I have written anything. I am just is no mood and also I have to think hard as to what is to be written. Have been chilling and resting at my mum’s place for a week. Been quiet relaxing. I think the stress in me gets the best out of me. I fall under the category who perform best when under stress. A calm and relaxed environment makes me slow. How I wish I had joined the Indian army, so much to do and the thrill to have achieved something big. As a kid I was fascinated by doctors, I say not just fascination but even the upbringing that I have. My parents always imbibed that you must study to become a doctor. So I was always interested in being one… little did I know one needs to study and yes study hard to get this degree. Not to forget the huge donations that make you a doctor. During my teenage I wanted to be a teacher, loved the thought of teaching and having the power to mould one’s life. It’s interesting how as a teacher you can separate good from bad, lie from truth. Also the fun of checking the exam paper. Whenever I scored less I would tell myself, one day I will become a teacher and them ensure everybody scores brilliant marks. I know this sounds funny, but I trust wished I could this. Now at 30, I wonder if I could join the army. Unfortunately, I can’t. I am stuck in a crappy job. This gives me money but the satisfaction, the adrenaline rush is missing. There is nothing such as an accomplishment. Every day is the same boring, office politics and then ensure how your brand shines, even when you know deep inside that it is a crap brand. Ok, I cannot say this coz I get paid.

Now after being in this corporate world for over 9 years I feel it’s time to do something that I always wanted to. Boredom sets in with a 9-6 job. It is just blah. People around are all blah and blah. I wish to start a catering business, may be just start with a small road side shop, but then there are the ups & the down to it. So let it be. Over the long extended weekend we had been to Mahabaleshwar. So serene & calm. Everything just seemed pleasant & good about that place. I love being myself sometimes & be away from this pretentious world. Oh, these Monday mornings are the worst, they make you wait for 5 long days before you actually get your 2 days holiday. Oh, how I wish I could go back to those lovely 3 days.  The weather was lovely, it was raining and the climate was pleasant. It just fun to be a kid again & enjoy the rain like a child. We actually walked up the 5 km stretch to the main market, there was nothing extra ordinary that one could buy but yes the food made up for everything. We had a hearty scrumptious meal, ok, it was a bit over-priced. But given that we were at a hill station this was expected. The mutton nalhari and naan were perfectly filling. This makes me wonder are these guy at hill stations at the mercy of the visitors? Do they not have any other source of income? What do they earn and eat during the off season? Or, do they have enough & all this rest is a job they take up in past  time? I think, I will have to leave the conversation here. Would really be happy if you could share in your views as I am a bit confused. Reason 1. They do not convince you to buy 2. Neither are they open to bargaining

Mask it

Why wear a mask when you can just be yourself. Why fake it even with people who we feel or at least think that are close. I just do not get the whole point. So manipulative, so vengeful. The world is really a bad place to live. Sadly, even I am one of them. I fake it in front of others and pretend to be normal. As if everything is fine but in reality there is a storm that is going on inside me. I wish to scream and yell and cry, all at the same time. According to me this is the best way to get the shit out of your system. But I am unable to do so. I am unable to cry in front of others, I cannot reveal the real me. I like the image of a rude lady. But sometimes, I think it is ok to break down. I was once talking to one a relative of mine and I was amused with her bitter experience that she had at her place.  Wow, I like my work place, it is an escape from everything that is around you, the mess, the thoughts and yes negativity. I find this as an opportunity to be mentally evolved and emotionally become strong. Why can’t all the relations be just like the one that we have at work place? Talk to me only if you have work or else fo. These complications make life miserable. Not trying to say that office life is awesome but yes, you can just cut the crap and move on. Yeah, I like it this way. I have always been like this.

I know someone, but she is so complicated that I am unable to read her. I find it difficult to understand that person. Ughh, dealing with such breed makes me hate myself. I just do not like it. The day started on a good note but still there are a couple of things inside me which are wanting to burst out. I will hold on. I am sane & yes, I do wear a mask.

Upma, our way

Yes, we fall under the category that considers going vegetarian on Tuesdays.  So last night was veg food day and we decided to make some amazing upma exactly the way you get in South Indian restaurants. I am no expert in making this lovely dish but my MIL is an amazing chef. She makes some amazing dishes. Next is avail on the list. Will keep you guys posted. So here is the quick and super easy recipe.

Rava – 1 katori (this should be roasted. Do not make it dark brown but yes, slightly roasted with a tbsp. of oil)

1 chopped onion

Green chilies – 3 – 4

Chopped coriander – 1 big bowl

Curry leaves

Ginger – ¾ th inch (finely chopped, she usually grates it)

Sugar – she usually ads 2 tsp (depends totally on how you like it)

Oil, ghee and salt as per taste

Mustard seeds, jeera and split urad dal

Ghee

Imp – Ensure you have readied piping hot water. Measure 3:1 (3 cups of water for 1 cup rava)

In a kadai, add oil let it heat and then add Mustard seeds, jeera and split urad dal, curry leaves, green chilies, onion and a fistful coriander

Now add the roasted rava & mix it well

Add salt, sugar as per taste

Now add the piping hot water & cover with a lid. Let it cook

Once done add 2 -3 tablespoon of ghee & the rest of the coriander

Its ready to be served or rather eaten. We usually add some bhujiya sev on top for some extra taste & texture.

Rice everywhere

I am an absolute rice lover. I can eat rice with anything. I just love the idea of mixing up everything together and then eating it. I also think, the rice enhances the taste of dals & veggies around. I have rice for both my meal. Even if it means I will have just one spoon for dinner. Rice is must. It is such a versatile kitchen staple.  I mean, you can make everything with rice … let it be dosas, patties, tikkis, kebabs or pulaves, khichids, not to forget kheers and paysams. Monday was a biryani day at home. So here is a quick recap of what goes into making this delicious rice dish.

Ingredients for Vegetable Biryani

Cloves – 3 – 4
Cinnamon – 1 inch
Cardamom – 5
Cumin seeds – 1 tsp
Cashews – 1 tbsp
Almond – 1 tbsp
Dry red chilis – 2

Butter – 5 tbsp

Vegetable Oil – 7 -8 tbsp (yes, you have to be generous)

Onion chopped lengthwise – 2
Carrot chopped – 2
Potatoes cut into cubes – 2
Capsicum – 1/2
Tomato – 1
Ginger – 1 inch
Green chili – 5
Garlic cloves – 8
Turmeric Powder – 1/4 tsp
Red chili Powder – 1 tsp
Lemon juice – 2 tsp
Garam Masala Powder – 1/2 tsp
Kitchen king masala & Shahi biryani masala – 1/2 tsp
Green Peas – 1/4 cup
Sugar – 1/2 tsp
Coriander leaves – for garnish
Basmati Rice – 2 cups
Turmeric powder for cooking rice – 1/4 tsp
Cumin powder for cooking rice – 1.4 tsp
Salt to taste

Method

• Heat butter and oil in pan. Add cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, cumin seeds, cashews and almond and saute them till it becomes light in color
• Add chopped onion, ginger, garlic, green chili and saute till it becomes golden brown in color
• Now add potatoes, red chilis, capsicum, carrot, green peas and saute them on medium flame
• Add turmeric power, chili powder, tomato, lemon juice, garam masala, kitchen king masala, sugar, salt as per taste and mix well
• Finally add biryani masala and mix well
• In the meantime, cook the rice only upto 70 % adding salt, turmeric and cumin powder
• Now, transfer half of the cooked vegetables onto plate. and spread the other half in the same pan. Let the flame be low.
• Spread the half cooked rice on top of the cooked vegetables. Garnish with coriander leaves ad butter.
• Again spread other half of cooked vegetables over this, spread the remaining rice then again garnish it with butter and coriander leaves. Cover the pan with lid and cook in the medium – low flame for about 5 minutes or till the rice is cooked completely
• Vegetable Biryani is now ready

We enjoyed it with simple curd raita. You may choose what you want along with it.

Books and me

One of my favs.

There are days when you strongly feel about certain issues and few days are just blah. Over the weekend I have been pondering over the sms language that is used these days. I wonder if kids these days can frame a proper sentence. My niece who is in 6^th standard writes to me, “Ma mums out. Wl ask her 2 call u whn she is bck”. Trust me it took me 10 secs to understand what did she mean. And when I realized I took another 20 mins to respond as I was not sure what to write. Ok or K.

So guys, here is a request to frame proper sentences even while you are messaging. I understand that each character takes space & you end up spending that much amount from your pocket. But, it is worth it. Trust me worth writing complete spellings. Thank god our generation can write and frame proper sentences. I think even twitter is somewhere responsible for this crap. I mean share your thoughts in 140 character. Opps, this is a tough job. Anyways, coming back to my blog post. I have been reading a book, ‘The Laws of Spirit World’ by Korshed Bhavnagri. What a brilliant book. I am in love with what has been written. Actually reading it for the 4^th time. This book was gifted to me by my dear friend in 2009. I think everybody should read it at least once. It talks about how we can grow as a human being, heal and at the same time does not preach any religion or God. This is what it is. The book is an actual event that took place with a mother after her sons passed away. It also answers a few questions that we have. At least, I have got answers to few of my questions. It really helps you calm down and helps be a better person. I wish more and more people read this book. It will really help you grow as a human being.

Important, it talks about the 7 realms or plains of existence in the spirit world. Where, realm 1, 2 and 3 are equivalent to Hell and 4 is the in between world, realm 5 and onwards, you progress in Heaven. The book believes in one and only one mantra “You can fool a fellow man, but you will never be able to fool God.” It makes you question the most important aspect of life – ‘If you are a God fearing person would you ever try to fool God?’ Questions like; Why you choose to be born on earth, What is a good deed, Karma, freewill, suicide, God, Prayer etc … are answered.

I am glad I was able to lay my hands on this one.

Customer service at its best

I have read somewhere that customer is king, but thanks to Thyrocare, this myth was taken care off. Gone are the days when customers were treated like a king. Now I doubt if they are even treated properly. I know of certain brands who do everything that is possible for the customer. I mean small things like wishing on birthdays, reminding of next visit etc. I would like to give credit to kotak bank team, what brilliant service… I had booked a fd via branch, as I did not get any notification I just tweeted and within a fraction of second of posting the tweet I get a call from Kotak bank along with all the possible solutions. This is what I call customer service. Bang on guys, you are doing a fab job. You must be super proud of it.

Exactly opposite is Thyrocare. Phew, they make the customer deal through what not. Humiliation and yes do not even think once before insulting the customer. So here goes my painful experience at Thyrocare.

 

The below part is copied from the mail written to them.

This morning at 8 I reach the Jambhli gali, Borivli west center. As I step in, I do read no credit full payment. I did mention to the person there I do not have so much cash and I have too many tests to do. Still he did not say a word saying that, we will not process your request till the time payment is not made.

He proceeds and takes my details & blood for the blood test. Then comes the true horrible experience. He says this will not be processed as you have to make the entire payment. i.e Rs. 2400/-. So here i tell him i will make the payment when i come to collect the reports. Pls proceed as i have my doctor’s appointment on Saturday at 9 am at Khar. He also mentions, when you had called yesterday to ask the address you should have asked about payment method. Is it not his duty to inform?

However, this man does not budge and calls some lady. I speak to the lady and she insists that i pay. Ok, i understand & i am ok paying immediately via net banking. Unfortunately, the lab’s net was slow & so was my phone.

Now at this point I request that man to come along with me so that I can pay him by cash. To which he responds, “Mein kyun aun”. I was like, for your customers. He faced his back to me while I was speaking. Also, went on to say, jab tak payment nahi hoga apka blood nahi bheja jayega.

Wtf, are we thieves? Is this is your customer service? You do not accept cards, is that my fault & in today’s dna & age who the hell carries a cheque book. As i have given my blood i had no choice but to walk to the atm & pay him.

Is this the courtesy you show to your patients? Trust me never ever will i come back to you guys. You have given me mental distress and caused me physical exhaustion. My integrity has been questioned. I am going to talk this in public on your fb page, my blog, my page and everywhere possible. You guys suck. Pls learn from your competition.

Also the owner apologized.I really appreciate that but trust me the staff ill-treated me. Speaking to me with his back facing towards me and yes pitch was of his voice was high enough. This behavior is not acceptable no matter who you are.

I am not writing this to bring the brand in bad light. But, this just sets an example for others and this will also give them a glimpse into what customer service is all about. Trust me, customers are just like you. The way you speak makes the difference. Damn, you guys ruined it for me.

Idiots all around

These days I have been struggling as to do what I write. I am actually thinking hard about what do I pen down. I think I am too cluttered with multiple thoughts and negativity around me. I know, I should let it affect me but then it is affecting me. The office politics suck. People here are next to impossible. Everybody will come to you with an agenda. I am scared opening up to anybody out here. Thank god, I fall under that category where I can do without friends or chit chat to make me comfortable. I can be on my own, I rather prefer being on my own. It is difficult to be fake and mingle with people whom you dislike… maybe dislike is a strong term, but yes, I am uncomfortable when with them and I am sure it’s the same case there. The marketing head here works in one policy, get your pets in the team and then chill. This company is going bonkers with such recruits. Sometimes, I feel am I the only one who can notice all this? Is there no one who can see all this? Or do they just keep mum, like me. So, my boss is quiet supportive. He listens to me patiently but still there are no answers to certain questions, I think he wishes to be safe in his place. Fair enough, this is office not home. So all good.

Anyways coming back to the topic, this HOD is a total idiot. He doesn’t understand “a” of marketing and digital marketing …. What is that is the biggest question. Sad, but if the HOD is partial and doesn’t appreciate any newer ideas the brand with doom. I can already see this for the company. Eventually, all boils down to what I alone can do. Anyways, I think this idiot needs to know what is marketing all about. It’s like spending company’s money on anything that you feel like. I think he is still in the nascent stage of BTL, he needs to experience the power of what digital can do. I joined this start up to get my ideas roll, reapply but now with this idiot it is just his pets job. Eeeeks, how I hate this place now. I feel saturated already in a months’ time. The feel is more suffocating and disgusting. I always believed that joining a startup is fun. You get to do and explore new things. Learn & do what you want, basically, experiment, fail & then succeed. But it looks totally different here. I wonder what is my experience going to be once I am out of this place, again a thought crops up saying… chill and focus on what you are doing. Yea, actually I should be focusing on what I am going currently and not think of what If and buts.

It just stuck me, my former boss at my first job had told this to me – Do not let ass holes rent spaced in your mind. True. I think I should not let this asshole screw up my day & my thought process. I am loving this writing thing, it just helps you get all the negativity out and start fresh. Wohooo, I think I have found my way to let go things.

Spongy Dosas

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It is difficult to master the art of making spongy dosas. When I was young I tried to learn how to make the batter… uff that was another pain to get the batter rise every single time was another task at hand. I think I got this right at the age of 29 post my marriage to South Indian guy. Now, I can make batter hat we ensure my idlis & my dosas come out spongy. Having said this, it is still tricky to get dosas soft and fluffy. I am unable achieve the perfection that my MIL gets. Lip smacking thin dosas is all that she makes.

Here is a secret

Dosa batter recipe

Par boiled Idly rice -3 cups
Urad dal -1 cup
Fenugreek seeds

Cooked rice – 2 cups

Wash and soak both rice and dal for 5 – 6 hours separately. Soak fenugreek seeds along with urad dal
Drain the water and grind dal in a wet grinder or food processor adding water from time to time to a smooth and fluffy batter. Remove it in a container
Grind rice to a slightly coarse paste adding water little at a time. Also, add the cooked rice
Mix both the ground rice and dal together with clean hands or a ladle. The consistency of the batter should not be too thick nor too thin but should thickly coat a spoon when dipped in the batter

Leave it overnight or for 7-8 hours for fermentation. The fermenting time differs depending on the temperature and weather conditions
After fermenting the batter will double its volume. So place the batter in a large container
This fermented batter is used to make dosa. Now your dosa batter is ready. Mix it well with a ladle

Method
Heat a non stick tawa/cast-iron tawa, grease it with oil. Cut an onion into half and rub it all over the tawa. This is done so that the dosa will not stick to the tawa
Take a ladle of batter, pour it in the centre of the tawa and spread it a circular motion
Drizzle a tsp of oil around the dosa

Once you see pores on the dosa, cover it with a lid

When the corners start lifting up, flip the dosa to the other side, drizzle 1/2 tsp of oil and cook until done.

We usually have it with chutney as sambhar is time consuming 🙂

Goodbyes!

Goodbyes, are they always difficult? I doubt. Actually it depends on who the person is & how much do you value him or her. It’s a weird culture that the corporates follow i.e to hold a farewell party for the person who is moving on. I mean this is the day when everybody speaks only the best about that person. Only god know how much is genuinely meant. I really find it fake and a bit awkward. I remember my last stint lasted for exact 24 months… well, I did bond with people around but not that I would sob that I am moving on. I was moving on for a better opportunity rather better pay package. I was happy that I was quitting my previous organization. Why am I writing this? Coz, I just witnessed one. Oh, these farewells make me sad. I just hate this thing of saying how much I will miss you and how much did I love you. Oh boy, come on… let us all grow up. People actually sometimes say nasty things as well… how and why are the only two questions. As this saying goes, “Words are, in my not-so-humble opinion, our most inexhaustible source of magic. Capable of both inflicting injury, and remedying it.”- Albus Dumbledore, Harry Potter. Seriously words are so powerful.

A small message of kindness and a few good words can make one’s day. It is just amazing when you receive messages from someone who you truly love and you were not expecting the message at first place. I read this story of how just 3 words prevented a person from committing suicide. Truly, everything boils down to communication. Sometimes it’s the tone that makes all the difference. I seriously wish that if email would define the tone that we wanted… like stern tone, happy tone. It’s not always good to have just one serious email tone. Hate it. How I wish if Microsoft would get this fixed. Everybody in office is so busy in getting things done and in the process they forget if their deeds or actions or even a simple email would hurt someone. No wonder emails are meant for office. Everybody sucks at work place.

Coming back to goodbyes. Sometimes, these byes are the best. As soon as you resign you are let off all the tasks at work and still get paid. Wow, what a life. I want this job dude. I encountered this only at my last stint, I used to go to work just to punch in my card & mark my attendance and then step out of office the entire day, shop, eat & then leave at 6. So for today’s farewell, we got donuts… yeah yummy in my tummy.

Having said this I still hate goodbyes. I do not want such moments in life, may be being de-ttached while you are attached is the only solution to this. May be, who knows. I think I am done for day. Too many emotions and too any thoughts. Yeah, going through a difficult phase, not cause of good byes but my very own personal reason. Will write about this only after I overcome my fear and problem.