Spring-break travelogue

The past two weeks were like being in the amazing race! On March 11, we (Haema and I) set out for India. We had the entire spring break, starting Thursday afternoon (took an early out) and returning on Monday (March 22). Our path to Madras (Chennai) took us through Chicago and Brussels. Though we had requested vegetarian meals on our flight, Expedia and American decided not to honor it. In fact American gave us few lettuce leaves and two slices of tomatoes and said thats it! Thanks American for keeping us healthy!! Prior to the trip, I had attended the talk by Seymour Hersh and had with me an autographed version of his book, Chain of Command. Wanting to avoid jet lag, I kept reading the book and matched Chennai timing.

We landed in Chennai on time, collected the bags, and came home with Rema and Atul, my nephew. Though I was mentally ready for the warm weather, it was hotter than expected.

All four flats at Chennai are now occupied by family. It also posed some interesting meal logistics. Mom was not happy that I was not getting the morning coffee from her all the time but I think she was happy to see us. I managed to also go to the Saptaswara Musical store (Anna Nagar branch) and buy the electronic mridangam, couple of flutes, and a few books (T. K. Govinda Rao's compilation of Dikshitar kritis). Also did a little shopping at the FabIndia store. Had great food at the Sigri restaurant on Sterling Road.

On wednesday (March 17) left for Mumbai. Kumar and Anu picked us up. Had never before seen any Indian male with Red hair and orange beard! Naseer, Kumar's driver sported this hair-do. It was less humid but equally hot in Mumbai. Tried to relax and read. Then off to Devan's place on Friday evening. Back to Kumar's place on Saturday. Sunday night off to Delhi and on to Ames.

Whether it was due to the firecracker prank on Kingfisher or the typical paranoia of American, the check in for AA 293 was tense. Thanks to Sudha, we had some nice seats where I could keep my foot up and avoid the swelling of my feet.
We reached Des Moines only to find that one of our bags did not make the journey with us from Chicago. Also, as I got ready to rent a car to drive home, realized my drivers license had expired and Haema was too young to rent. Luckily, the shuttle service to Ames had two seats and we were just in time to catch it. Finally, reached home and the bag was delivered at 9 p.m.
Since reaching Ames, a week has passed. Again, a busy week getting back to projects, meetings, and class. Finally, I am taking the Saturday easy!

ശ്രീ

Whether it was luck or not, the fact that the movie 3 Idiots was being screened at a regular theater in Des Moines was a good thing. It was better that I agreed to go see it (I am averse to seeing a three hour movie, especially a Hindi movie). It was a good decision.

Amir Khan has been pressing many social issues of late. Among the top has always been one of education. I think Amir made a strong appeal with this movie. Perhaps I feel it so because of my own experiences. Both from pursuing my passions (though late in my life) as well as trying to influence my children. It is not that parents and elders are myopic but the economic contexts in which they grew up and what they still perceive as existing have shaped their views. There is some truth to their conventional wisdom. Pursuing one's passion may bring intrinsic happiness but anything more requires that your skills and knowledge in this pursuit outshines everyone else. Otherwise you have a great hobby! So, it is essential that you have an alternate livelihood. Let us look at a few examples.

Jimmy Carter - US President - Engineering
Shashi Tharoor - Minister/Diplomat - Writer - Ph. D. Law and Diplomacy
Vijay Iyer - Jass Pianist - Ph. D. in Physics


So, my point is pursue your passion but also have a backup plan!