Mahabalipuram - The Shore Temple

 Mahabalipuram – The Shore Temple

(Short Story – Part 1)

I am an ardent traveler, and writing about my journeys—covering history, experiences, food, and local culture—gives me immense intellectual and spiritual satisfaction. While international trips require months of meticulous planning, traveling within India is often a spontaneous decision.

This time, I chose to visit Puducherry, staying with both my sons—one visiting from England and the other running his digital marketing company, Bhasad, headquartered in Gurgaon. While the stories of Puducherry will come later, today I feel compelled to share the mesmerizing history of Mahabalipuram—a place many Indians might not know in depth.

Mahabalipuram – A Lost Marvel of Time

Located about 60 km south of Chennai, Mahabalipuram (also called Mamallapuram) is a historical town with roots tracing back to the 6th–8th century AD. Under the rule of the Pallava dynasty, particularly during the reign of King Narasimhavarman I (also known as Mamalla) between 630 - 668 AD, this town flourished as a major port city. Art, sculpture, and temple architecture reached their pinnacle during his reign and continued under the Chola dynasty.

Among the greatest architectural wonders of Mahabalipuram were the Seven Pagodas—a collection of pyramidal rock-cut temples believed to have guided ancient maritime traders. These seven temples stood along the shore of the Bay of Bengal, serving as landmarks for commercial vessels.

However, over time, the sea swallowed six of these temples, possibly due to natural disasters like tsunamis and cyclones. Only one remained standing—the Shore Temple, a breathtaking structure that has withstood the test of time.

The Shore Temple – A Timeless Wonder

The Shore Temple, built from a single solid granite rock, is an awe-inspiring example of Pallava architecture. This temple has three sanctums— dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. The temple, standing at the edge of the roaring sea, has an energy that captivates every visitor.

One of the most astonishing discoveries happened after the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami. As the waves receded, a hidden treasure was revealed—the long-buried Varaha Temple of Lord Vishnu, which had remained submerged under layers of sand for centuries. Since then, this ancient temple has become a centre of spiritual attraction.

Locals believe that witnessing the first rays of the rising sun reflecting upon the temple brings divine blessings, fulfilling the wishes of those with a pure heart.

Mahabalipuram

 Mahabalipuram – The Rathas & Beyond

(Short Story Part II)

Our overnight stay in Mahabalipuram was suggested by a  family friend, an IAS officer, who insisted that we explore the town in the early morning.  The humid climate of South India makes morning visits far more comfortable, allowing you to take in the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site at ease.

In my last post, I spoke about the Shore Temple. Today, let’s explore another marvel—the Rathas and Krishna Mandapam of Mahabalipuram.

Mahabalipuram is a living museum, with over 40 monolithic wonders carved from single rock formations in the 8th century. These structures have created a self-sustaining local economy, providing employment to skilled sculptors and craftsmen whose artistry is renowned worldwide.

Our first stop was the Rathas—six rock-cut temples shaped like chariots. Though never used for worship, they served as architectural prototypes. Some associate them with the Pandavas from the Mahabharata, while others link them to Hindu deities like Durga, Vishnu, Brahma, Shiva, and Indra’s celestial elephant, Airavata. Each Ratha has its own design, drawing influences from Dravidian, Bengali, and Buddhist architecture.

Next, we visited Krishna Mandapam, an intricately carved rock panel depicting Krishna lifting Govardhan Hill. Nearby stands Krishna’s Butter Ball, a massive boulder mysteriously balanced on a slope, unmoved for centuries. Even Pallava kings and British officials failed to shift it!

Mahabalipuram isn’t just about history—it’s a testament to India’s artistic brilliance. The town continues to produce master sculptors whose creations are sought after worldwide. If you love art, history, and culture, this place is an unmissable gem.

#Mahabalipuram #Rathas #PallavaDynasty #UNESCOHeritage #IncredibleIndia #TempleArt #TravelDiaries #HistoryUnveiled

 

 

 

 

 

 

Auroville

 Auroville: A Utopian Dream in South India

My sons, Arpit and Kshitij, are relentless travelers—if there’s a place worth exploring, they’ll find it! So when Arpit insisted I visit Auroville, a unique township about 150 km south of Chennai, I knew it had to be something special.

Founded in 1968 by Mother Alfassa (fondly known as “The Mother”), Auroville isn’t just another tourist spot. It’s an experiment in human unity—a place where caste, creed, religion, and even national boundaries don’t matter. Think of it as the world’s most ambitious “no discrimination” zone!

What Makes Auroville Special?

1️⃣ No Private Property, No Problem – Resources are pooled, and people contribute through money, skills, land, or volunteering. No one “owns” anything, but everyone belongs.

2️⃣ A Temple Like No Other – At the heart of Auroville stands Matrimandir, a giant golden sphere designed exclusively for serious meditators. No selfies, no chit-chat—just pure silence and reflection. Visitors can admire it from outside, but if you want to step in, you better bring your inner Zen!

3️⃣ A Foodie’s Paradise – Auroville has 95+ guesthouses catering to different tastes and budgets. From rustic charm to modern comfort, you pick. The township is also dotted with charming cafés offering both Indian and continental food—and trust me, it’s quite a sight watching foreigners happily munching on dosas and samosas!

4️⃣ A Self-Sustaining Village – Auroville isn’t just about ideals; it’s a functioning economy. Residents create and sustain their own ecosystem from handmade crafts to organic farming.

The Indian government also supports this grand social experiment by providing land and infrastructure, making it even more fascinating.

So, if you’re looking for a place where people live beyond borders, where spirituality meets sustainability, and where even the food has a global passport, Auroville is calling!

Just pack an open mind and a big appetite—you’ll need both! 😊

 

Republic Day 2025

 Republic Day, 26th January 2025

Republic Day isn’t just about unfurling the Tiranga and sharing sweets; it is a celebration of our nation’s pride and the principles enshrined in our Constitution.

After independence, our leaders dreamed of an India where justice, equality, freedom of speech, and brotherhood would reign supreme. They envisioned a nation breaking free from the chains of slavery and striving for excellence in economic, social, scientific, and educational spheres.

Today, as we reflect on that vision, we take immense pride in how far we’ve come. India has emerged as a global powerhouse in economics, science, and social justice, inching closer to becoming the world’s greatest economy.

However, Republic Day is not only a reminder of our rights but also of our duties.

One of the most pressing challenges we face today is corruption—not just in public offices or private sectors but in our daily lives. Before we point fingers, let’s introspect.

How often do we respect traffic rules when no one is watching?
Have we taken steps to keep our surroundings clean, picking up wrappers or discouraging littering?

Do we stop others from throwing bottles or trash on the roadside, or do we turn a blind eye?
Small acts of discipline and responsibility can transform our nation. Imagine the India we read about in school—where cleanliness, honesty, and civic sense prevailed. That dream is achievable if we, as common citizens, rise to the occasion.

Jai Hind!

Dunki - illegal migration from India

 Dunki

Yesterday,

the United States deported 104 Indian immigrants who had entered the country illegally, using a military aircraft for their repatriation. But this is just the beginning—thousands more are awaiting deportation.

Many migrants come from Punjab, Haryana, and Gujarat, where the dream of settling abroad remains strong. While wealthier families send their children overseas for higher education and business opportunities, many others take risky and illegal routes in search of a better life. Some overstay their tourist visas and blend into the undocumented workforce, while others pay lakhs of rupees to agents who smuggle them across dangerous borders. These journeys are full of hardships, with migrants crossing deserts, rivers, and forests, often facing arrest, exploitation, or even death along the way.

Bollywood’s 2023 film Dunki, starring Shah Rukh Khan, captured illegal migration's emotional and physical toll, showing the risks and struggles involved.

In Punjab, the urge to migrate to Canada has become so strong that it almost feels like a necessity. During my time at Reliance Retail, I met many landlords who owned successful businesses—marriage palaces, retail stores, and farmland. Yet, they were eager to lease their properties because their children had no interest in continuing the family trade in India sheer due to peer pressure.

For poorer families, the pressure is even greater. Many parents, influenced by relatives abroad, sell their land or take heavy loans to send their children overseas, without fully realizing the challenges that await them. Many migrants end up in low-paying jobs like housekeeping, driving, food delivery, and manual labor—jobs they would never have considered doing in India.

This mass migration has left many villages in Punjab looking deserted, with only the elderly left behind. As families move away, their land becomes vulnerable to encroachment. Many NRIs, fearing legal battles over their properties, prefer to sell them off, leading to the slow decline of their ancestral homes.

The deportation of illegal immigrants is not just a legal issue; it highlights a deeper problem—India’s struggle to provide enough jobs and opportunities. Instead of focusing on industrial growth and infrastructure, the government relies more on welfare schemes—free power, rations, free bus travel, and pensions for women. If young people do not find good opportunities in India, they will continue to look elsewhere, even at great personal risk.

Illegal immigration is not just about breaking laws—it is a reflection of economic reality. If we do not create enough opportunities at home, we will keep losing our hardworking and ambitious youth to other countries. It’s time to reflect on this reality and take action. Will we?

Customer Care

 Customer First

 

Reading Shantanu Naidu’s “I Came Upon a Lighthouse” and Harish Bhat’s “Jamsetji Tata” has been an enlightening journey, deepening my admiration for the Tata Group. Their unwavering commitment to excellence, values, and humanity is not just a corporate mantra but a legacy that inspires trust. My personal connection with the Tata Group—my first major transaction after retiring from RR—only strengthened my belief in their philosophy. They have shown us what it truly means to put people first, a lesson for businesses everywhere.

The essence of customer-centricity, which we’ve learned since college, is critical for any business to thrive. Yet many organizations, especially those enjoying monopolies, often ignore this principle, leading to their downfall. Over the years, I’ve encountered instances where outstanding customer care transformed ordinary interactions into unforgettable experiences, reminding me of the profound impact of thoughtful gestures.

During a visit to the Taj Palace Hotel, my wife and I arrived late due to unforeseen delays. Despite the late hour, the reception officer greeted us warmly and empathetically. He upgraded our room without any request, saying, “Sir, you must fully enjoy this property.” He even extended complimentary breakfast and a late checkout, knowing my wife wanted to relax while I was away at work. This small yet thoughtful act left us in awe of the Taj’s legendary hospitality.

Austria, a country not particularly renowned for its warmth and

hospitality offered me a delightful surprise during my stay at Hotel CH Luk in Vienna. When I requested toiletries like a dental and shaving kit, I was informed that they weren’t provided as per hotel policy. However, upon returning from a day exploring the city, I found full-sized kits neatly arranged in my room with a handwritten card that read, “With Love.” Such thoughtfulness shattered stereotypes and left an indelible impression.

Similarly, during a stay in Prague, the hotel initially declined my request for English breakfast tea and milk, as they weren’t standard offerings. To my surprise, later that evening, I found a tin of Sri Lankan tea and a packet of milk waiting for me with a heartfelt note, “You are always welcome in our hotel.” It’s these moments of unexpected kindness that elevate a guest’s experience.

In Budapest, I faced discomfort due to a smoky odor filtering through the AC vent. When I reported it, the hotel swiftly resolved the issue by relocating me to a newly built apartment nearby, complete with better amenities. Their proactive and considerate approach transformed a potential complaint into a moment of gratitude.

Even in 2015, while staying at the Golden Hotel in Hanoi during the sweltering summer, the air conditioning failed. Though the issue was promptly fixed, the hotel went above and beyond by arranging a complimentary airport drop, saving us $50. Later, when I contacted them about a missing T-shirt, they located it in their laundry and couriered it to my home in India. Such gestures of care resonate deeply and build lifelong goodwill.

These experiences underscore the immense value of exceptional customer care. They turn inconveniences into cherished memories and transform customers into loyal ambassadors.

Contrast this with my experience with Kia Seltos. Within five months of purchase, the car’s battery failed. While it was eventually replaced, the process involved needless arguments. Later, I discovered a fine crack in the windshield, clearly a manufacturing defect. The dealer’s reluctance to take full responsibility led to protracted negotiations, and they agreed to bear only 70% of the repair cost. Such indifferent attitudes erode trust and loyalty, driving customers away.

#CustomerFirst #TataGroup #BusinessValues #CustomerCareMatters #CustomerExperience #HospitalityExcellence #TajHotels #GlobalHospitality #CustomerCentricity #MemorableMoments #BusinessLeadership #ServiceWithCare #EthicalBusiness #CustomerDelight #BrandReputation #ValueDrivenBusiness #RespectForCustomers #PositiveExperience #BusinessTrust #LoyaltyMatters #KiaSeltos #CustomerServiceFailure #AutomobileIndustry #BrandAccountability #CarOwnershipExperience #CustomerLoyalty #BetterServiceNeeded #ConsumerVoice

 

Nature and Business

 Nature or Business: Who Comes First?

This question often stirs my mind, especially when I see trees, flora, and fauna sacrificed in the name of development. While progress is inevitable and essential for human advancement, the true test lies in harmonizing development with preserving nature’s wealth.

My first encounter with this delicate balance was in 1988 during a career interview at West Coast Paper Mill, Dandeli. Nestled in a dense forest, the factory premises were almost invisible amidst the greenery. The atmosphere resembled a well-maintained resort. I vividly remember savoring hot dosas in their canteen, the aroma so enticing that it tempted one to eat beyond appetite.

Years later, in 1994, I observed something similar at Century Rayon and Amar Dye Chem near Kalyan. While working at Amar Dye Chem, I once had a heated argument with Century's CFO over trees drying up due to chemical fumes. Fortunately, their Director of Finance stepped in, and we collaborated on a plan to save the trees.

Fast forward to 1997–2000, when I witnessed a remarkable transformation at Reliance Industries

(RIL) world’s largest grassroots refinery. A barren wasteland became an oasis of orchards. Mukesh Ambani, known for creating the extraordinary, developed the world’s largest mango orchard alongside other fruits. Years later, in 2006, I found Reliance Kesar mangoes at Harrods in London, a testament to this visionary project. Today, his younger son, Anant Ambani, carries the legacy forward with Van Tara, the world’s largest animal shelter within the refinery premises, rehabilitating injured animals.

Long before these examples, Tata had already set a precedent by creating the world-famous Jamshedpur Township in the 1930s. Globally, cities like Singapore and India’s Chandigarh demonstrate that development can coexist with lush greenery and sustainable planning.

Recently, I visited the Siswan Dam near Chandigarh. The government has maintained the area's natural beauty, restricting development while encouraging people to enjoy the wildlife and flora. A small restaurant has been permitted, but only to respect and preserve nature—a brilliant balance of utility and conservation.

This brings me back to the question: does development always come at a cost? My answer is a resolute no. With vision and commitment, development can preserve and even enhance nature. Let’s strive for this harmony.

#Nature #Business #Development #Sustainability #Progress #WestCoastPaperMill #Dandeli #CenturyRayon #AmarDyeChem #Kalyan #RelianceIndustries #MukeshAmbani #AnantAmbani #VanTara #MangoOrchards #Harrods #Tata #Jamshedpur #Singapore #Chandigarh #SiswanDam #Wildlife #Conservation #Harmony