Welcome To Personal Year 2010

I always consider 9 is auspicious for me and it is proved many a time.  I believe in Numerology.  Is it possible to find our life's path through a set of numbers? Whether or not it is true, numerology offers some fascinating possibilities. Numerology holds that we go through a nine year long cycle where the universe helps us in different aspects of our life during each year of the cycle. We can calculate our Personal Year Number just like our Life Path calculation, except that we substitute the current calendar year for the birth year. For instance,. in order to discover the personal number for a particular year, add together the month and date of your birth, then add in the current year.
We'll start with mine. I was born on November 22, and I'm curious to know my personal number for the coming year 2010. So I'll add together 11 + 22 + 2010. This totals to 2043. Now I'll add all these numbers together and I come up with 9. So 9 is my personal number for the calendar year 2010.
I just checked from online resources as to what #9 personal year mean and describe.   

• If you are in a Personal Year 9, you will be reaching closure and discarding those things you no longer need in your life. Unlooked for endings will occur now, but only in     areas where you no longer have need of those things. You will have many chances to show compassion and understanding for your fellow men during this year. Try to wind  up your old affairs and prepare for the new challenges of the next year. Be sure to hold off on starting any new undertakings until the following year.
• The Nine Personal Year is a time of completion, change, renewal and endings. You are completing a nine-year Numerology cycle this year! It is time to look back on the past 9 years and think about your knowledge, skill, and experience that you have gained. 
• 9 means it's time to "clean house" and indicates Endings, Recognition, Freedom, Change.  
• Inspirational Quote #9 Personal Year: "The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires." - William Arthur Ward
  

I would like to wait and see if any of this comes true and happen in 2010?
 

Now calculate your own Personal Year Number and relate the following brief description:
1 Year: Beginnings, Opportunities, Strategy, Rebirth, Renewal
2 Year: Relationships, Harmony, Partnership, Balancing
3 Year: Creativity, Joy, Abundance, Power, Encouragement
4 Year: Patience, Honesty, Maturity, Leadership, Authority
5 Year: Movement, Diversity, Education, Random
6 Year: Maturity, Wisdom, Serenity, Family, Structure
7 Year: Wisdom, Peace, Contemplation, Consciousness
8 Year: Victory, Authority, Honor, Pride, Power
9 Year: Endings, Recognition, Freedom, Change
Find more details at: http://www.pathwaysinstitute.com/ask-rob/how-to-calculate-your-personal-year-number.html  

                                   
Wish You Happy & Accomplishing Personal Year 2010

Mobile Phone Requires IMEI Number To Work From 1st December

All mobile phones are assigned a unique 15 digit IMEI code upon production. Does your mobile phone has the IMEI code? You are in trouble if it doesn't, as the  Department of Telecom (DOT) , Ministry of  Communications and Information Technology, Government of India has directed  the Cell phone operators to disconnect mobile phone handsets  without the legitimate International Mobile Equipment Identity  (IMEI) number from December 1 this year. Concerned over the threat to national security, the DOT has asked operators to crack down on duplicate or  illegal or China-made cheap handsets, which do not bear any IMEI code. It is estimated that there are about 25 million handsets without IMEI number.
But what is this IMEI number and Why is it so critical? 
The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number is a 15-digit code that can be displayed on GSM [Global System for Mobile communication] and   UMTS [Universal Mobile Telecommunications System] mobile handsets. Mobile phone companies are able to use this IMEI  number to identify valid subscribers and also use the number to remotely disable the phone in the event it is stolen or reported lost. IMEI number is an important tool for the handset tracking by the cell phone operator who could identify a mobile and helps prevent use of stolen handsets for making calls by enabling security agencies to track down the specific user. No two mobile handsets in the world should have the same IMEI number.
How to Find the IMEI Number on a Mobile Phone? 

1. Ensure your phone is powered on. 
2. Return to the "idle" screen, or your "desktop". If you were in the middle of a call, end it, and clear any numbers you pressed while making that call. 
3. Press the following keys [five characters] one by one: * # 0 6 #  
4. As you press on the last #, a number will appear with the title, IMEI number or Serial Number or similar. 
5. If you store this *#06# as a phone number in your contacts with the some name, say, IMEI Code, then next time when you dial IMEI Code from your contacts, it will show you the IMEI Number. That way you won't forget the *#06# sequence.
   

Alternative Method To Identify IMEI 

1. Ensure the phone is powered off.  
2. Remove the battery. 
3. Look on the phone for a white sticker/label, which would be now exposed after removing the battery, for the IMEI. It would be 15 or 17 digits not including a few forward slashes included and without any letters. Only the first 15-digits are needed. 
4. If the phone is not available or if the label is unreadable then have a look at the phone manufacturer's packaging for a white sticker/label. Near one bar code or another the IMEI would also be printed.
   

Tips 

• Store your 15-Digit IMEI Number in a safe place, so that you could find it if your phone is stolen. 
• If your mobile phone is stolen, call or go to the nearest service center of your mobile network, and give that IMEI number to staff and ask them to block that number for a period of time, so no one can use your mobile phone for any illegal purpose. 
• You are required by laws of the land to report about loss or theft to your Service Provider (Mobile Network) and to the Police station of your locality. It will be blacklisted across ALL networks so that it can't be used for criminal activities. If it is recovered, it is possible to de-blacklist it providing you have proof of ownership. 
• Get Analysis of your Mobile IMEI numbers at http://www.numberingplans.com/?page=analysis&sub=imeinr  You can check all known information regarding manufacturer, model type, and country of approval of a handset.
  

My example:
I tried a simple method  to  verify whether the serial number displayed on my handset was a genuine one and not a cloned or duplicate or fake number. I typed the word IMEI followed by space and then typing the actual 15 digit number and SMS to 57886 at 7-30 am today. I  received a reply  by around 7-00 pm with the following SMS:

"Valid IMEI: This IMEI belongs to Nokia Corporation-6080. If your mobile is not the above mentioned model, please note that it is illegal to use cloned / duplicate mobile phone."

New(s) On My Social Networks

I have been using the web-based social-networking services for developing professional and business networking opportunities for (re)connecting. Here are my recent updates on my LinkedIn and Twitter accounts:

LinkedIn  http://www.suryanarayana.in    
Latest Profile:

The user-friendly web-profile on LinkedIn is an effective extension to my virtual Business Card. To view or download or print my latest profile Click : http://www.linkedin.com/in/suryanarayana

Contacts score 300+

I'm using LinkedIn to continue my existing personal or business contacts and look for new introductions. The list is growing further with  professional and business community friends from all over the world. You too can join to get connected and include your recommendation about me. See how it works at  http://www.linkedin.com/in/suryanarayana

PresentationTips Launched:

This is a Group created by me  to share thoughts and ideas for better Presentation. To start participating in the new tips or discussions, click Group PresentationTips at  

http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=96459&trk=hb_side_g

Active Polls: 

1. Poll Question: To start a small or medium size business, which Business type of organization do you prefer? Add comment to support answer. Take poll: http://polls.linkedin.com/p/59568/lkyyk View results at http://polls.linkedin.com/poll-results/59568/lkyyk
2. Poll Question: What is the Best trait required for new creative Leader to succeed? Add comment to support your answer & win a FREE eBook. Take poll: http://polls.linkedin.com/p/61449/tlzwj  Poll result: http://polls.linkedin.com/poll-results/61449/tlzwj
   

Twitter: http://twitter.com/suryanarayanasv

Twitter is a real-time short messaging service that works over multiple networks and devices. Twitter  always asks the question, "What are you doing?"  Each answer to that question is considered a Twitter status update which is displayed on Twitter badge embedded to my website and blog .
Look at my Tweets from time to time on my blog and website to find what I am doing. 

You can also  follow me to keep in touch with me by signing in Twitter at https://twitter.com

Smooth Drive On India's Longest Flyover

I had on occasion to drive on the country's longest flyover which was just  thrown open for  fast and unhindered access to & from Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Shamshabad, Hyderabad. The flyover was built over a period of about three years at a cost of Rs 600 crore (Rs 6 billion). The four-lane  11.66 km long P.V. Narasimha Rao Elevated Expressway , which starts at Sarojini Devi Eye Hospital, Mehdipatnam in Hyderabad and ends at the Aramgarh junction few kilometers before reaching the Airport. It has been built to provide  better connectivity, cutting travel time and offering a seamless traffic movement between the city and the International Airport. The main idea is to prevent traffic jams and delay for passengers on their way to the Airport.

Considered as the longest  flyover in Inida, built with state-of-the-art innovative technology  by the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority  is one of the the biggest infracture projects in Andhra Pradesh has been   named after the former Prime Minister of India, Shri P.V. Narasimha Rao [PVNR] who carved a place for himself in the history as a reformer.
Sound, Light & Detour taken care 
As a number of residential areas and hospitals are located along the way of the flyover, the noise produced by vehicles are likely to be a constant source of disturbance to the people. But locals like us  living in the vicinity of the PVNR Expressway has something to cheer about. Vehicles zipping past to the airport may not create much noice as  sound barriers  will be fixed to the railings and the entire installation  will be soon completed.  I understand that each vehicle ride produces 115 decibels sound. The acoustic barriers will help reduce the decibel levels to a moderate 75.  Apart from the acoustics barriers, electro level beam sensors/tilt meters and temperature sensors will be installed at specific piers. With such instruments in
place, any defects that crop up can be detected easily. Anti-glare panels will also be installed on the medians, which will deflect the blinding headlights of the oncoming vehicles. Three sets of ramps have been proposed at different places along the PVNR expressway  joining at different points. Construction of one such ramp is in progress nearer to our house. The delay in ramps getting ready has been due to a host of factors including shifting of water pipelines and also a place of worship at one place.
I could take a stress-free drive  at a speed of 60-80 km and could reach the other side of the fly over within 12 minutes. Photo in this blog was taken by me at the beginning of this flyover.
First Marvel 
Engineers [including my father] described this structure as an ‘engineering marvel’ which was executed without problems that similar projects elsewhere faced. With all these achievements, Hyderabad now boasts of India's longest flyover! Despite my thorough search, I could not get any information as to which is the longest flyover in Asia and the World. If you know please post such information in the comment box of this blog.

Diwali -A Festival Of Lights & Delights

Diwali or Deepavali, is the Hindu festival of lights and it is the most important Indian festival. The term Deepavali is of Sanskrit origin, which means an array of lamps.The celebration of the Diwali festival in India signifies the victory of good over evil within oneself. Festivities take place throughout India and in Indian communities worldwide. Traditionally small oil lamps and candles are lit and placed round home, in gardens and on roof tops. People exchange sweets, wear new clothes and jewelery,  fireworks displays and  enjoy bursting crackers.  Although Diwali represents renewal of life, joy, happiness and preparation for winter season to all who celebrate it, it is related to a different myth in different parts of India. In some places it signifies the homecoming and coronation of King Rama   [On this day, Lord Rama returned to Ayodhaya along with Sita and Laxman to rule over the kingdom],  In Southern India, another legend describes the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura.  In western India, it is celebrated in honor of the King Bali. In northern parts of India, people worship Lakshmi -the goddess of wealth and  it also marks the beginning of the new financial year.
In all Diwali is to eradicate the world from darkness and lead it towards the self-illuminated light within. Diwali 2009 is celebrated on Saturday, the 17th October.

Wish You & Your Family Members A Happy Diwali
Resources:
1. Online video Greetings on YouTube at  http://www.youtube.com/indiavideodotorg
2. Best animate Greeting which has a facility to Tweet this from http://www.123greetings.com  like the one I added to my Twitter:
Wish You Happy Diwali -17 October. Celebrate & Light The Diwali Diyas! Click here http://bit.ly/17vbqz

Have Passion For Your Topic *

When you speak from your heart while making a presentation with passion, it is evident to everyone in your audience that you care. As a presenter you must therefore check from time to time during your presentation whether you are showing your passion or not. Remember this golden rule: "Stick to topics you deeply care about and do not keep your passion for yourself. Continue reading...

*By Suryanarayana S V - EzineArticles.com Expert Author

PC2Web TIPS - Best online utility to make long link usable

Long URL [web page address / link ] looks like a messy code. Sending such URL via eMail may get broken causing the recipient to have it cut and paste it back together in a browser to view the intended web page. Similar issues are also faced when posting long URL in a website. Today I have prepared my eGreeting with a message on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti. I could not post the web page link into my Linked In and Twitter [ http://twitter.com/suryanarayanasv ] Accounts due to number of characters limitations. But I turned the following link:

http://campaign.constantcontact.com/render?v=001ySku4cw8vav126BWwymxM-8Z3BIHSY9pwiE67QRb5_EU9bCR8EBU4QZq87KlZ9uvbutO8QYXyuBCEDbBffqpMNMttQ3hgNeDtWbpVWWlT5TY5Tx8NqbfQ9UHJmu4zz4czilD5pLMVSH3F6lUOMSwM-wYrBsT9SYGLpxIDKWhBWzGNxks8XpRWGG1BkecLxyo

into a short URL: http://tinyurl.com/gandhijayanti

How? A website called http://tinyurl.com helped me to resolve this problem by creating shortened / redirected URL in place of long link provided by me.
The whole idea of this site is to convert long URL into something short so that we can send it to whomever we like. Moreover, the new URL that is created instantaneously will never expire (even if the page made it from does) and it will never get broken into pieces. Another best feature of this site is to "Add TinyURL to any browser’s toolbar" and convert any web page with long URL being viewed by us could be shrunken down to a new shortened URL to clipboard for bookmarking. This online utility by http://tinyurl.com is probably one of the most useful Internet tools I’ve ever seen. I understand TinyURL has so far shortened more than 300 million URLs.

Bottom Line: There is absolutely nothing that anyone can say against this service - it’s perfect, TOTALLY FREE and deserves 10 stars, not just 5. So what are you waiting for? Go to http://tinyurl.com NOW and you’ll never have a broken URL again.

Vijayawada Temple Visit In Reverence

I have a special bond with Vijayawada, a city that is always bubbling with activity at any given time of the year. It is the third largest city in the State of Andhra Pradesh and is located on the banks of the Krishna River, bounded by the Indrakeeladri Hills where the magnificent Godess Kanakadurga Temple is located on hill top. The abode of Kanaka Durga, goddess of power, riches and benevolence, is therefore the presiding deity of the city. The deity in the Kanaka Durga temple is regarded as Swayambhu [self-manifested ], hence is considered very powerful. It is said that Adi Sankara visited this temple and installed the Sri Chakra here. The beauty of this temple is seen to be believed. The gold-plated Vimana gopuram of the Kanakadurga temple is the cynosure of all eyes on the temple premises [the photo in this blog]

I recently visited Vijayawada along with my wife primarily to stay with my parents for a couple of days during Dasara festival and to have darshan of Goddess Kanakadurga which has a mystique charm and grace particularly during these festive days. Thousands of devotees visit the Kankadurgamma temple during the "Navarathri festival" which commenced on 19th September amid religious fervour and gaiety. After performing the rituals, the temple will be opened at 3 a.m. when devotees can have uninterrupted darshan of the goddess till 11 p.m. We have reached the foot of the hill by afternoon before the pilgrim rush peaks generally in the evening. That being Sunday and second day of the festival, it was Sri Bala Tripura Sundari alankaaram as part of Dasara celebrations. The temple authorities ,the Government officials with Police & Volunteers have embarked on a series of steps to make common devotees to have hassle-free darshan and enable pilgrims to move from one place to the other with ease. Since devotees would head straight to the Durga temple atop the hill, the entire que route from the foot of temple is covered with tarpaulin to protect pilgrims from rain. The ghat road wore a colorful look with thousands of pilgrims reaching the temple in an orderly way and having quick darshan.
Visitors like us had a pleasant surprise at the foot of the hill, as we could purchase VIP Ticket of Rs. 200 per head, travel in a car to and fro temple atop the hill, have darshan as VIP by standing very nearer to the deity and collect 2 laddus prasadam. So far so good. But devotees could not get proper guidance and no assistince was provided to get clarifications by the staff or security personnel. On top of it, my footware kept in an unmanned stand disappeared. When I inquired with a nearby police official about the theft, he took it simple and had suggested me to pick whatever pair that suits me and cautioned to be careful as miscreants outnumbered the devotees this time. And he goes on telling that it has become difficult to nab the culprits as they are moving around with face mask in the guise of prevention of swin-flu. I read in newspapers that a power-tussle among temple staff and government departments resulted in lack of coordination and neglect in arrangements. Popular temples are generally well guarded and they have few stalls who take care of not only our footwear but also mobiles/ cameras / any other prohibited article just for Rs 1 or 2 with a token system. I wish the Vijayawada Kanakadurga temple authorities in future may open an assistance counter, outsource the pilgrim facilities and make available a suggestions & complaints book. Though the temple visit was in reverence, my return route was via Bata to buy and put on new footwear.

Resources: http://www.kanakadurgatemple.org or http://www.durgamma.com

Online way to celebrate Vinayaka Chaturthi

Vinayaka or Ganesh Chaturthi is a Hindu festival celebrating the birthday of the elephant-headed Lord Ganesha. It begins on the fourth day of Bhadrapada, which is usually sometime in August or September, and lasts eleven days. This Year festival is being celebrated on 23 August.
Lord Ganesha was created by Goddess Parvati who needed protection while her husband, Lord Shiva was away. She made young Ganesha guard her house. Upon his return Shiva was denied entrance by the boy who didn't realize their relation. In his anger Shiva struck off his head. Parvati broke down in sorrow and in order to soothe her, Shiva ordered men to bring a head of the first creature they encounter. They came back with an elephant's head which was attached to the boy's body and Shiva bestowed powers of a God upon him.
Traditionally clay figures of Ganesha are made for worship and later immersed into the water. Sweets (ladoos) are distributed, milk offered to the idols of the Lord, people pray and feast. It's time to worship and surrender to Lord Ganesha.
To perform onling puja to Ganesha Click: http://www.jaishreeganesha.com
Wish You Happy Ganesh Chaturthi.

How to be cholesterol smart

Understanding the good and the bad cholesterol will help maintain a healthy heart. This is what I understood after getting my general health checkup recently.

Cholesterol is a waxy substance present throughout the body, and is involved in the production of hormones, Vitamin D, and the bile acids used for digestion. When present in excessive amounts, it can injure blood vessels, which may eventually cause heat attacks and stroke. Our body gets cholesterol in two ways: by producing the substance organically, and through the food we eat. The body makes enough of the stuff on its own, so most of the cholesterol we eat is excessive. This is why, if we are at risk of heart disease or have high cholesterol levels in our blood, it is vitally important to cut out the “unnecessary” cholesterol from our diet. Just like oil and water, cholesterol and blood do not mix, it must be “chauffeured” to and from the cells by carriers called lipoproteins. There are two types of lipoprotein: low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, is known as “bad” cholesterol. High-density lipoprotein, or HDL, is known as “good” cholesterol. Too much LDL-cholesterol in the blood can lead to cholesterol build up in the arteries. FAQs on cholestrol: http://healthy-india.org/preventheart4.asp
Controlling our cholesterol is possible. First it is important for us to have our cholesterol tested. Whatever our blood cholesterol level, we can make changes to help lower it or keep it low and reduce our risk for heart disease. I am using Green Tea [without sugar and milk] , Raw Vegitable juice and Almond Nuts. I have changed simple walk to brisk walk in the morning and increased the duration. I now find myself physically active and healthy.

Loksatta Timely Help To Fire Victims

Political parties with their leaders generally make their appearance at the spot of good & bad happenings, just to receive media attention. But for Loksatta -the newly emerged political party in Andhra Pradesh, India led by Dr Jayaprakash Narain it is a different approach. It was surprising to see this party workers going round in our locality even after elections were over, to show their concern to the fire victims to collect donations in cash and kind. Recently dozens of thatched houses in a slum near our locality [Gudimalkapur-Mehdipatnam] were destroyed in a fire. The fire that broke out in one of the houses during mid-night immediately spread to adjoining houses rendering the poor people loosing their houses and belongings in the fire though the fire tenders rushed to the spot and doused the flames. We came to know about this only when the Loksatta volunteers knocked our doors for some help to the fire victims. We have offered our contributions in kind. What touched us more is that the service minded political party jumped into action to collect contributions and give some relief to the victims instead of making a name-sake-visit to the spot. We congratulated the yeoman service of Loksatta and wish to be emulated by others. Click here http://www.suryanarayana.com/media/Vaartha7Jun2009.pdf to read the Vaartha Telugu Newspaper coverage with photo as appended in this blog.

Web Judge

I have recently got an opportunity to be web judge for Rotary International District 5300 [ covering portion of Los Angeles, Angeles National Forest,Santa Ana Freeway,Orange County, San Bernardino County etc., serving 61 clubs and about 3000 members] who appointed me to help judge the Rotary District 5300 Club Website Competition. I was advised to browse 16 Clubs websites keeping in view of the competition rules. An Excel spreadsheet was provided to rank and score our ratings on (1) Home Page information [ fast load speed, identifiability as Rotary Website, link to RI and District websites, club meeting info] (2) Effective communication tools applied [ whether website is current & update, club bulletin online, members director] and [3] General appearance and overall effectiveness of the websites [ graphics usage, easy navigation system, maintaining single design through the site, unique features of site and bonus point]. My scores were taken into consideration for the outstanding website awards which were presented in the recently held District Conference to the Rotary Club of Pasadena Sunrise http://www.pasadenasunriserotary.org ; RC Moapa Valley http://moapavalleyrotary.com and RC Las Vegas http://www.lasvegasrotary.com

I thank Rtn.Chris Datwyler, Webmaster & District Governor Rtn Eugene J. Hernandez, Rotary District 5300 for this best opportunity.

In a new role in Rotary

Rotaract is a Rotary-sponsored service club for young men and women ages 18 to 30. Rotaract clubs are either community or university based, and they’re sponsored by a local Rotary club. This makes them true "partners in service" and key members of the family of Rotary. As one of Rotary’s most significant and fastest-growing service programs, with more than 7,000 clubs in about 163 countries and geographical areas, Rotaract has become a worldwide phenomenon. Our Rotary District 3150 [comprising 78 Rotary Clubs in Andhra Pradesh, India] has 32 sponsored Rotaract Clubs with 722 Members. The sponsored Rotary Clubs guide and support the Rotaract Clubs while the District designate few Rotary Members to compliment their efforts. I am happy to inform that I have been designated as Rotaract District Trainer for the year 2009-10 Rotary year with a responsibility to guide and oversee necessary training requirments for the young Members of all the 32 Rotaract Clubs. To start with, I am required to associate with the Rotaract District Assembly that has been scheduled to be held in Hyderabad on 7th June, 2009 to equip and energize the Rotaract Leaders to take-off with the new vigor for ensuing Rotaract year commencing from July 1.

Tuneful tribute to Annamacharya - Singers set Guinness Record

For one and a half hours, more than one and a half lakh professional singers and amateurs sang the Annamacharya Kirthanas in one voice in Hyderabad on 10th May to mark the Telugu saint-poet Thallapaka Annamacharya's 602 birth anniversary. It is not lakhs of people who attended the programme that alone enjoyed the evening but also several lakhs of TV viewers including me. When I went to the venue to register my name and collect a book & CD of all seven sankirtans, I could see from the afternoon itself, people started pouring into the Parade grounds, the venue of this mega event. A festive atmosphere prevailed in and around the venue with many children and youngsters with traditional costume and some are seen dressed up as composer-singer Annamayya and Lord Sri Venkateswara. The stage was decked up beautifully to suit the occasion and Vedic pandits from Tirumala Tirupathi Devastanam also participated in this programme named as Laksha Gala Sankirthanarchana (one lakh voices singing Annamacharya Sankirtanas).
At about 6-20 pm all the participants seen reciting the sankeertanas simultaneously along with noted singer Garimella Balakrishna Prasad, who rendered the sankeertanas from the podium. The participants followed suit by clapping their hands and thighs. Starting with the noted Bhaavamulona, Bahyamunandunu Govinda, the musicians and singers rendered Brahma Kadigina Padamu, Entamatramuna Evvaru Thalachina, Podugantimayya mimmu, Kondalalo Nelakonna Koneti Rayudu Vaadu , Narayante Namo Namo and concluded the extravagnaza with Muddugare yashoda. In the process of reciting these sankeertanas, the participants set a new Guinness Book of World record surpassing a 72-year-old record set in Germany by a choir of 60,000 in 1937. The record was announced and a Certificate was presented by Guinness Book of World Records representative and adjudicator for the programme, Mr.Raymond Marshall amidst huge roar of applause from the audience. Mr. Raymond Marshal admitted that he had not seen such a performance, which he said was a treat to the eye and the ears.
The programme was organised by SiliconAndhra, a voluntary organisation in association with Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD), the Andhra Pradesh state cultural council. Silicon Andhra is a non-profit, non-political, cultural and community organization based in the Silicon Valley (Bay Area), California, USA started its preparations in December last year for this spiritual musical event involving mass recital. This is second time Silicon Andhara entered Guinness Book of World records. The first record was in June 2008, when it has organized a Largest Kuchipudi Dance performed in California by 328 Kuchipudi dancers came from all over the world. SiliconAndhra's President Mr. Kuchibotla Anand and his band of volunteers must be congratulated for selecting Hyderabad as its venue and all their efforts to make a well structured mega event successful right in the Capital of Andhra Pradesh. The photos of this event and kirteenas in MP3 are available on http://www.siliconandhra.org What best I found in this event was that people came on their own, maintained utter discipline and participated enthusiastically. For several weeks they had been practicing the seven sankirtans prior to their lending voice. More than creating a record, participants sheer passion for Annamacharya brought the them to the venue who enjoyed the evening in a devotional bliss. It was indeed a exceptional experience for every one of us. Annamacharya Anniversary is being observed year after year and a postal stamp was released in his honor in 2004. But this Annamacharya Lakshagala Sankirtana has proved that Sisurvetti, Pasurvetti, Vetti Gaanarasam Phanihi (From children to animals to snakes, music enthralls all).
I admire any event of this sort with innovative ideas as it would certainly help in propagation of Telugu culture across the world.

A visit to Basara Temple

India is “The Land of Temples”. Almost every temple in India has its unique legend telling a fascinating story about its existence. Amongst such numerous legendary temples in India, the temple of Gnana Saraswati at Basara in Adilabad District in Andhra Pradesh holds a prominent place. Basara Saraswathi Temple is one among the two temples of this Goddess in India. The other is in Kashmir. Basar is a village situated on the banks of river Godavari; the serene and pious nature attracts everyone. Basara temple is surrounded with beautiful gardens amidst the dry and barren patches of the north Telangana region, 30-km from Nizamabad. Basar is situated on the banks of River Godavari. It is located at a distance of about 220-km by road and 190-km by rail from Hyderabad. I have accompanied few of my friends of Rotary Club, Rtn. Siva Kumar, Rtn Prabhakar and Rtn. Ravindranath for a brief visit to Basara after an all day District Event of Rotary Club held in Nizamabad on Sunday, the May 3. Devi Navarathrulu is celebrated for ten days during Dasara Festival in Basara Since Maharishi Vyasa spent considerable time in prayers, the place was then called "Vasara" and turned into Basara due to the influence of the Marathi language in the region. Built at the confluence of the rivers Mangira and Godavari this temple is adorned by the goddess of knowledge and wisdom. The presiding deity, 'Gnana Saraswati Devi', is in a seated position with a 'Veena' in hand and bedecked with turmeric. Adjacent is the shrine of Goddess Maha Lakshmi and a little distance away, on the eastern side is the Maha Kali temple. This temple has no exquisite carvings like other temples. Walking ahead a few steps, one enters the sanctum sanctorum - a feeling better experienced than described. A feeling of peace, brightness and unlimited joy engulfs one.
Temple speciality: Devotees stream the temple for the ritual of ‘Akshara Abhyasam’ of their children -the formal starting of education deeming it to be auspicious with the blessings of the Goddess of Knowledge. 'Akshara Gnana' is a special ritual before commencing formal school education wherein the child is given little bit of turmeric paste to taste, believing that it will clear his/her vocal chords for better learning. The Goddess answers all the prayers of the committed devotees, filling their life with bliss and happiness. Basara Aksharabyas can be done by just taking a new slate or notebook wherein the poojari will bless the child by writing the sacred "Om" on it. "Postal Aksharabhyasam" Scheme is in association with the Indian Postal Services is also available. After paying necessary fee in a Post office, Basara Temple will perform pooja on the child's name and send a Magic Slate, Kum Kum, Turmeric, Misri, and Kankanam ( Sacred Thread).
Well, our trip to Basara did make us feel blessed and was spiritual indeed. I would say staying at Basara for atleast one night (as is usually done by devotees) brings more happyness. Staying at Punnami Guest House of Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation or Devasthanam Choultry will be the best options to make the visit a pleasant one rather than just taking a snap trip from Nizamabad and visiting the temple for a quick darshan as we did. A shrine one must visit in one’s lifetime; the abode of Goddess of learning and knowledge is the BASARA.

Resources: Log on www.basaratemple.org to find more info about Basara and listen to:
Saraswathi Namasthubyam,
Varadey Kaamarupinee!
Vidhyarambham Karishyami,
Sidhir bhavathu mey sada !
Oh ! Goddess, Saraswathi, my humble prostrations unto Thee, who are the fulfiller of all my wishes. I start my studies with the request that thou will bestow Thy blessings on me.

A Day to Celebrate Earth

Earth Day is the largest, most widely celebrated international environmental event. Earth Day helps celebrate Earth’s unique place in the universe. It is the only planet in our solar system teeming with incredible biodiversity. Learning about and protecting this biodiversity is what Earth Day is all about. People all over the world celebrate our efforts to protect plants and animals and to clean up the world we live in. Earth Day is celebrated on April 22nd each year. Why Celebrate Earth Day? Earth Day reminds us we all share the same planet. Sharing Earth means taking responsibility for what we use and how we use it. It is a day to think of the environmental challenges we face and how to solve them. Protecting Earth is every person’s and every country’s responsibility. Top 10 Ways To Celebrate Earth Day Earth Day is a time to celebrate the gains we have made in protecting the environment, but also a time to reflect and ask, "How can we do more?".

1. Educate Yourself. 2. Create Awareness. 3. Adopt Recycling. 4. Vote for politicians who share the same Green values as you. 5. Drive less by walking, cycling, using public transportation and car pooling. 6. Use Fuel Efficient Vehicles. 7. Use Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFLs). 8. Reduce your energy consumption 9. Turn Them Off lights, computers, TVs and other appliances when not using them. 10. Water Conservation.
Help the environment and help yourself through the actions mentioned above.

Circus, Then & Now

All eyes are glued to the main stage, as tightrope walkers, fire jugglers, trapeze artistes and clowns take turns to alternately amuse, beguile and amaze us, occasionally take our breath away too. A girl in a glittering bodysuit perched on an elephant's trunk enters to an enthusiastic applause. She proceeds to do a trapeze act, holding on to a ring hanging from its trunk, while the elephant, height increased by perching on a precarious platform, rotates counter clockwise. Seems like hard work, especially for the elephant, but it's all in a day's routine. Thunderous claps follow as the glittering lights are turned off and on to present the grand stage of the Circus feats created with high standards of performance and presentation. Despite a drop in patronage, circus still remains vibrant and continues to allure elders and children alike. I could see this when I went to enjoy the "New Golden Circus" one among the three circuses currently touring in Kukatpally & Attapur areas in Hyderabad.

In earlier days, circus used to evince a lot of interest among the public. People thronged the venue to have a glimpse of trained animals they might have heard or seen on papers. But after the Government's blanket ban on using wild animals in circus [Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, Wildlife Protection Act, and Performing Animals (Registration) Rules] the turn out of spectators has come down considerably. But with the ban that was put in place years ago on the exhibition of wild animals, the aura associated with circus has faded away . Animals were the backbone of the circus. In the absence of the tigers and lions, it's the elephant, horses, dogs and birds that are performing mesmerizing acts to entertain the audience.
The two-and- half-hour show is packed with 26 items when 50-odd artistes put the show together to entertain their patrons, performing such daredevil acrobatics, balancing and coordinated acts, it leaves us all wide-eyed and in awe. As an ardent admirer right from my childhood, I have so far witnessed more than 25 Circus shows. I must say Circus is the first and may be the last real show business that has the ability to put people on the edge of the seat, with its awe-inspiring daredevil feats.No matter what kind of new forms of entertainment come and go, circus still remains vibrant and continues to allure elders and children alike, though at a lesser level of patronage now than before.

New Year In Different Parts Of India & World

I have been searching to know about Tamil & Malayalam New Year Day [14 April] and then Greet my friends. I came across a website http://www.newyearfestival.com Different regions in India follow different cultures and so the New Year traditions also vary. Every Indian state has its own history behind the New Year celebrations. People in various parts of the country celebrate New Year as per their traditional calender. One can see vibrant colors and distinctive features of these celebrations. This website portrays New Year Resolutions, New Year Calendar, New Year by Religions. This web portal also has a section to provide New Year Special, New Year Messages, New Year Wishes, New Year SMS, New Year Recipes, New Year Quotes, New Year Poems, New Year Songs, New Year Prayers, New Year Symbols, New Year Parades etc.,
One more specialty is "New Year Around the World" with interesting details as to how & why various countries around the world celebrate their New Year's Day in different times of the year. The Society for the Confluence of Festivals in India (SCFI), Nioda, India team must be commended for this excellent idea and maintenance of this site to place every thing about New Year. It is worth visiting http://www.newyearfestival.com

5K Walk To Vote

The forthcoming polling day is not a holiday to enjoy. Go out and cast your vote as a responsible citizen for the betterment of life around you. This has been the message given by hundreds of volunteers, business leaders, professionals and scores of citizens from other walks of life including students, youth, and senior citizens of twin cities of Hyderabad & Secunderabad who marched through Peoples' Plaza on Necklace Road [TankBund] in Hyderabad holding placards and balloons calling upon citizens to use their right to franchise. This 5 km walk was organized by “Let’s Vote” - a non profit organization that promotes societal development and positive nation building through sensitizing everyone to cast their vote. Mahatma Gandhi said: "Voting is not just your right, it is your duty". All of us also know “Vote” is a promise, a vow and a commitment to act as responsible citizens for the betterment of life around us. Voting is an important act of citizenship. ‘Let’s Vote’ is a campaign dedicated to raising awareness about this commitment. To spread the awareness about this vital national duty of every citizen who is eligible to vote, the “Let's Vote” campaign aims to reach out to the citizens of the society and bring about a paradigm shift in their attitude towards voting.
At around 9-30 am I met my friend Rtn Prabhakar & his band of colleagues at a breakfast meeting who participated in this Let's Vote walk. They clarified that the campaign had nothing to do with any political party and only aimed at creating awareness on the need to exercise franchise, motivate them to take active part in the voting process for the betterment of life around us. Mr. Trikiran & Mr. Anil who were in campaign T shirt sporting with a badge and a pledge card in hand shared their experiences and later sent me photos [one snap included in this blog]. Though I could not attend this walk, I browsed the Let's Vote website and its features. What impressed me is that the Let's Vote campaign includes online pledge which I have also taken at http://www.letsvote.in
The campaign with this walk would have certainly set a goal to increase the voters and raised awareness among citizens to motivate them to be an active part of the voting process. Let’s spread this message, Let's Vote! Let’s walk towards a better future!

Communication - Key to success

Today morning I was taking a 4 hour training session on "12 Essentials of Communication Skills" as part of Secretarial Modular Training Programme conducted by the Hyderabad Chapter of Company Secretaries for the final passed students of Company Secretaryship course. This was my 46th batch of training on same topic since 1991 and it was well received as indicated in the written feedback given by the attendees. After completion of the session, few participants approached me to get their doubts clarified. Though I have guided them with some techniques, here are my additional inputs for all the 38 participants:

1. Good communication skills have a significant impact on your career. Your ability to speak well will make you popular. You will be able to impress your higher ups with your confidence, initiative and creative ideas. Isn’t it a great way to propel your career to dizzy heights with better communication skills?
2. Though some people have an innate ability to speak well, it is always possible to develop communication skills with a bit of hard work. Preparation and practice are best ways to overcome nervousness.
3. To succeed in your career you must present yourself with confidence. Your messages should have both content and style that makes a good impression on the listeners. Only practice and more practice can help you develop these qualities. So make it a point to devote enough time to master communication skills.
4. Be prepared to go that extra mile - Attend seminars, interactive sessions and discussions to improve your communication skills. You can also take advantage of training programmes organized by professional bodies.
5. Good communication skills have to go hand-in-hand with talent, ability and knowledge. Let others know your talent with your better communication.

UGADI – Telugu New Year’s Day

The name Ugadi" came from Yuga Aadi which means "Beginning of a New age ". It is believed that the creator according to Hinduism, Lord Brahma started his work of creation on the Chaitra suddha padhyami Ugadi. The onset of spring also in some way symbolically marks the beginning of new life. The new life seen in the fields and meadows, with colorful blossoms, also signify prosperity. Ugadi (literally - the start of an era) is the new year's day for the people of the Deccan region of India. While we the people of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka use the term Ugadi for this festival, the people of Maharashtra term the same festival, observed on the same day, Gudi Padwa. Ugadi is celebrated on different day every year because the Hindu calendar is lunisolar calendar. The Saka calendar begins with the month of Chaitra (March/April) and the Ugadi this year is on Friday, the 27th March. Name of this new year is: Sri Virodhinama Samvatsaram. The day begins with ritual showers followed by prayers, and then the eating of a specific mixture of – Ugadi Pachhadi (Ugadi Chutney) made of Neem Buds/Flowers for Bitterness, Jaggery for Sweetness, Raw Mango for Vagaru, Tamarind Juice for sour, Salt for salty , Green Pepper for hotness This mixture with all six tastes called Ugadi Pachhadi in Telugu and Bevu-Bella in Kannada, symbolizes the fact that life is a mixture of pleasure and pain, which should be accepted together and with equanimity.

Auspicious days like Ugadi should be used and celebrated for making resolutions to change our way of life and to purify our behaviour by giving up all bad qualities. Ugadi is a festival that teaches lessons in selfless service. It is not intended for feasting. It is a sacred day when wholesome wisdom should dawn and enlightenment should blossom in our heart. Ugadi teaches everyone the lesson that one should perfect himself / herself as an embodiment of divinity.
Resource:
http://www.telugupedia.com/telugu-calendar
http://www.indianfoodforever.com/andhra/ugadi-pachadi.html
http://indiacuisine.blogspot.com/2006/03/ugadi-pachadi-andhra-delicacy.html
http://www.oursubhakaryam.com/FREETELUGUPANCHANGAM2009-2010PAGE.htm

Wishing you a very Happy Ugadi that brings a rich bounce of flora and fills your heart with joy and contentment.

Get Ahead To Receive Greetings from me on your Birthday, Festivals and occsssions like this.
http://www.birthdayalarm.com/RequestBirthday.jsp?a:08&MemberId=12074274&ChecksumNbr=608018945

22 March – World Water Day

World Water Day is an international day of observance and action to draw attention to the plight of the more than 1 billion people world wide that lack access to clean and safe drinking water. World Water Day was designated in 1992 when the United Nations (UN) General Assembly passed a resolution. With each passing year, the observance has grown larger and stronger. In many ways though, World Water Day is still a relatively unknown event. Even with the support of the UN and efforts by leading non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and committed individuals, World Water Day is today at a similar stage as Earth Day was in the early 1970’s – important but relatively unknown.

The theme for World Water Day 2009 is Water Connects. We all need water and all water flows together connecting us all and the need to protect this needed resource. It is time for us to realize the importance of water on World Water Day –the 22nd March every year. I recollect a pathetic life without safe water in villages. We the Rotary Club members recently launched Water Projects in Nalgonda District villages near Hyderabad, India. The photo included in this Blog was taken by me - A girl quenches her thirst with the pure drinking water as the Rotarians addressing the school children at the Government High School.
We were astonished to listen from villagers that drinking water is being purchased by them at a rate of Rupees fourteen per pot. Please see the a report entitled “Drinking Water Projects quench their thirst” at
http://www.clubrunner.ca/CPrg/home/storyitem.asp?cid=3553&iid=91952 or http://www.rotaryclubofsecunderabadwest.org
Let us be aware of the importance of clean and safe water, spread a word of its necessity and help those who are unable to get clean water. Here are some resources:
http://www.worldwaterday.net/
http://delhigreens.com
Get Ahead To Receive Greetings from me on your Birthday, Festivals and occsssions like this.
http://www.birthdayalarm.com/dob/12074274a608018945b363

Honing Leadership Skills - Rotary's Way

I was one among a small group of Rotarians [Rotary Club Members] as a participant in a two day workshop conducted on 3rd and 4th March,2009 in Hyderabad,India. I went in as a participant and returned as a Certified Faculty. This orientation-cum-training programme was organised by Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) aimed at organizing leadership development programs for Rotary members world over. Though RLI is not an official program of Rotary International, our Rotary International District 3150 [Andhra Pradesh, India] recently joined as a Member of RLI and initiated this programme to refine the Rotarians' leadership skills and increase their base of knowledge in Rotary. This course was devided into 3 sessions. I was a Discussion Leader presenting along with few other Rotarians on pre-designed topics: "Rotary Beyond the Club","Vocational Service" and "Public Relations". All the sessions were initiated and reviewed at the end by well trained and experienced honorary facilitators of RLI. You can see them in this blog photo [Left to Right] Rtn.Dr.Rekha Shetty-Chairperson,South India Division RLI-Past District Governor 3230,Chennai-India, Rtn.Tam Mustapha-Past District Governor 7210, NY, USA and [Far right end] Rtn. Bimal Khaitan-Regional Vice Chairman-RLI South Asia-Past President of Rotary Club of Central Calcutta,India. This course of RLI has imparted a significant "leadership" component, a more thorough insight into what leadership is , how to implement it effectively, how to "team-build", and how to carry those leadership concepts through Rotary service projects, committees & club meetings. I have attended similar training programmes earlier. But I found this Course content was contemporay, practical, interactive, and geared towards business and professional people who want to be effective leaders in their vocation and as knowledgeable Rotarians. The inputs have also helped me in self-evaluation and to rightly channelize the existing skills. The course material provided to us is a real resource for conducting any training / orientation programme as per RLI norms. In the concluding session, our District Governor Rtn. Dr.Sarat Babu [standing right to me in the photo] presented RLI Graduate Lapel Pin and a Certificate to every participant. This means that the attendees of this course are now fully equipped and qualified to serve as Faculty Members of the Rotary Leadership Institute courses conducted anywhere in the world. I am grateful to Rtn Dr Sarat for his initiative to bring RLI course [first of its kind I have experienced since my 13 years career in Rotary] with a view to develop quality leadership in Rotary Clubs.

Pc2Web TIPS - How Password Should Be? 9 Rules

Whether we are purchasing something online or we are signing up for new or existing Email Address, a password is usually required. In today’s increasing online world, having a strong password is a must. With more and more services being added everyday, it can sometimes be hard to come up with new passwords to use. So, I thought I would take some time today and try to provide some light on creating a safe & strong Password.
According to security experts, there are 9 rules one should follow when making up passwords.

1. Password should be random. By that, I mean you should choose a series of characters that are completely random to everyone else, but make complete sense to you. For example, the more easy you make it for you to remember the password, the easier it will be for a hacker or other undesirable person to steal it from you. Furthermore, the longer it is, the harder it will be to crack.
2. Passwords should be unique. Create a password that no one else will be able to easily guess.
3. Each password should be, at the very least, eight characters long, but the longer it is, the better. If you can come up with a password that's 14 characters or more, go for it!
4. Password should be a combination of upper and lowercase letters and there should be at least one number or symbol included somewhere. The more variety you add to your password, the better it will be.
5. Password should be changed regularly and frequently. The longer you leave the same password in place, the easier it will be for a hacker to grab it.
6. Type your password manually each and every time you're asked for it. Yes, the "Remember Password" feature is nice, but it's really best to enter it in each time.
7. NEVER use your first name, last name or login as your password.
8. Case Sensitive password is always preferred. Examine the following userid and password:
   

Userid: EXAMPLEID
Password: EXAMPLEPASSWORD
is not the same as:
Userid: exampleid
Password: examplepassword
You must enter your password in the same case as you have done originally.Often we experience the inability to log into a case sensitive login because the caps lock key is on causing the case sensitive password and/or username to fail.
9.Alter the Passwords you currently use by adding a meaningful symbol is one step toward making them difficult for Internet thieves to crack.
Example:
1. Your son’s initials are SON
2. Your daughter’s initials are DAU
3. They were born in 1981 and 1983, respectively
Potential password: Son81>83Dau
Further requirements for a strong password:
* Spell letters phonetically: the initials ABO can become AyBeeOh
* Use both upper and lower case letters
* Use at least one number
* Do not begin or end the password with a number
Practice your new password in your word processor and get it to flow smoothly off your fingers

If we follow these nine simple rules, we'll have the most secure and strong Passwords. I strongly suggest that you stop everything, go, right now, and change your banking and any financially sensitive passwords. Other types of passwords can wait. Do it now, before you forget.

Feb 23, For Devotion & Celebration

Shivaratri or Mahashivratri is festival on February 23, wherein Hindu devotees around the world observe Shivratri Vrat or Upvaas or fast. The fasting involves refraining from eating any food and not sleeping through out the night. Shivratri is the day when rituals and worship are given more importance. Sivaratri literally means ‘the night of Lord Shiva’ and unlike other festivals associated with Hinduism there is no fun and merrymaking on the day. How to celebrate Mahasivratri?

• The Mahashivratri fasting begins on the morning of Shivratri and ends next day morning or the Amavasya morning. Since it is a long Upvaas or Vrat, many people consume a special meal known as ‘phalar.’
• Devotees wake up before sunrise and take bath and wear clean clothes.
• Applying of sacred ash, or vibhuthi, is an important aspect on the day. People also wear a Rudraksha Mala.
• The idols of Ganesh, Shiva and Parvati are cleaned and a lamp is lit.
• Most people then visit a nearby Shiva temple. In most places, Shivratri is largely observed in temples.
• Some people observing fast consume a mid-day meal consisting of non-cereal food such as boiled potatoes which is made into a curry without onion, garlic, adarak or haldi. Another food eaten on the day is pakori or Kutt Singahri ki puri.
• Most devotees go for a fruit diet and drink lots of water.
• No meal is eaten after sunset.
• Next meal is taken on the morning of Amavasi after doing puja and giving alms.
• The entire night is spend in a nearby Shiva temple or by chanting Mantras or listening to stories related to Shiva.
• Some of the important mantras that are chanted on the day include:Shiva Panchakshari Mantra – Om Namah Shivaya or chanting the sacred names of Lord Shiva.
• People who have a Shivling at home can bathe the Shivling with water intermittently throughout the night.

All the rituals on the night of Shivratri are an opportunity to cleanse the ignorance and open the door to bliss. The fasting, rituals and chanting are meant to kill desire, greed, illusion, arrogance, jealousy, and anger. This will make a better person and prepare to face the challenges. Resources: http://www.mahashivratri.org/shivaratri-fast.html [website of Society for the Confluence of Festivals in India ] http://www.123greetings.com/events/maha_shivaratri/

Rotary International’s 104th Anniversary Rotary is one of the largest and most influential international humanitarian service organizations in the world. Founded on February 23, 1905, in Chicago, today Rotary has over 1.2 million members who belong to more than 33,000 Rotary clubs in more than 200 countries and geographical areas. As volunteers, Rotary members serve the needs of their communities worldwide. Our Rotary Club of Secunderabad West, joins Rotary clubs around the world to recognize the day, also known as Rotary’s “World Understanding and Peace Day,” by addressing a variety of community concerns. Rotary members conduct projects to address today’s humanitarian challenges, including illiteracy, disease, hunger, poverty, lack of clean water, and environmental concerns while encouraging high standards in all vocations. Rotary members strive to build goodwill and peace, and provide humanitarian service in their communities and throughout the world. Rotary’s top philanthropic goal is to eradicate polio worldwide. To date, Rotary has contributed nearly US$800 million and countless volunteer hours to the protection of more than two billion children in 122 countries. Rotary is currently working to raise an additional $200 million toward a $355 million challenge grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. These efforts are providing much needed operational support, medical personnel, laboratory equipment and educational materials for health workers and parents. I am proud to be associated with this fantastic organization as Rotarian.
Resources:
http://www.rotary.org
http://www.rotaryclubofsecunderabadwest.org