Pradhaman is a traditional Kerala dessert

Ingredients:

Water                      :              1  1/2 cup

Milk                        :              3 cup

Condensed Milk     :               1 cup

Butter                      :              2 tbsp

Ada                         :               ¼ cup

Sugar                      :               ½ cup

Method:

1.Clean the pressure cooker properly.

2. Boil ada by putting it in 2 to 3 cup boiling water.Keep it covered for 25 minutes.wet water completely.

3.Heat butter in a pan and fry ada to a light pink colour.Keep it aside.

4.Boil milk and water in a thick bottam pan.Add boiled ada and reduce heat to low medium while stirring all the time.

• Keep stirring till milk is reduced by 2/4rd.
• It takes about 2 hours to prepare the dish and now,the color of pradaman should be of pink color .
• Add condensed milk and cook for 4-8 minutes more.
• Add sugar and mix it well
• 5 Serve it hot or cold as desired.

Special Days and Observances in September

The month of September has some really fun and interesting days to celebrate. The days listed here are those that should be of special interest to gifted children and their families. The month has also been set aside to focus on some special interests. You can find information and activities for the month as well as the special days in it.

Special Days and Holidays

First Ten Days

• September   2  VJ Day
• September   2  Labor Day
• September   8  Grandparents Day (first Sunday after Labor Day)
• September   8  International Literacy Day
• September   9  Wonderful Weirdo Day
• September   9  Teddy Bear Day
• September 10  Swap Ideas Day

Next Four Days

• September 11  Odd Day
• September 11  Patriot Day
• September 11  Remember Forever Day
• September 12  National Video Game Day
• September 13  Roald Dahl Day
• September 13  Defy Superstition Day
• September 13  Blame Someone Else Day (first Friday 13th of the year)
• September 13  Uncle Sam Day

Next Six Days

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• September 13  Positive Thinking Day
• September 15  Make a Hat Day
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• September 16  Mayflower Day
• September 16  Collect Rocks Day
• September 16  National Play Doh Day
• September 17  Constitution Day
• September 17  Citizenship Day
• September 18  Air Force Birthday
• September 18  National Attention Deficit Disorder Day
• September 19  Talk Like a Pirate Day
• September 20  World Gratitude Day
• September 21  International Peace Day

Last Nine Days

• September 22  Hobbit Day
• September 22  Dear Diary Day
• September 22  Elephant Appreciation Day
• September 22  Autumnal Equinox
• September 23  Checkers Day
• September 24  Punctuation Day
• September 25  Math Story Telling Day
• September 26  Read in America Day
• September 27  Ask a Stupid Question Day (Last school day of the month)

Cochin International Airport to be India's First to Run on Solar Power

KOCHI:  Cochin International Airport is all set to become the first airport in the country which would be operating on solar power, airport officials said today.

Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy will inaugurate the Cochin International Airport Limited's (CIAL) green initiative - a 12MWp solar power project set up on the premises of the airport on August 18, Airport Managing Director V J Kurien told reporters in Kochi.

When the photovoltaics (PV) panels laid across 45 acres near cargo complex become functional, Cochin airport will have 50,000 to 60,000 units of electricity per day to be consumed for all its operational functions, which will technically make the airport "absolutely power neutral".

CIAL, which has adorned many firsts in its cap, like being the pioneer in PPP model in building an airport to introducing a path-breaking rehabilitation package for evictees, has ventured into the Solar PV sector during March 2013, by installing a 100 kWp solar PV Plant on the roof top of the Arrival Terminal Block.

This was a trend setter in the field of grid-connected solar PV in the state of Kerala.

After the successful commissioning of this plant, CIAL installed a 1 MWp solar PV power plant partly on the roof top and partly on the ground in the Aircraft Maintenance Hangar facility within the Airport premises.

Both these plants are equipped with a SCADA system, through which remote monitoring is carried out. After commissioning, these plants have so far saved more than 550MT of CO2 emission contributing to the efforts of CIAL towards minimizing environmental degradation.

"After commissioning, this installation is expected to generate around 48000 units per day, which along with the electricity generated from the existing 1.10 MWp plants, would be sufficient to meet the power requirement of the Airport," a CIAL official said

Benefits Of Traveling - Farebucket

Even if you live in a vibrant city and have an exciting job and active social life, nothing can replace the unique experiences traveling offers. Visiting a foreign country opens your eyes to how the rest of the world lives; many therefore return home with a new appreciation for their own country while gaining a broader worldview in the process. Remember, you only live once, so passing up a chance to travel is tantamount to passing up a life-altering experience.

1. Break out of your shell

Foremost on the reasons to travel is that you discover a lot about yourself. Now I'm not talking about taking a family trip to Disney World. When I speak of a special vacation, I envision someone backpacking across Europe or driving along the coast of Australia — that is, a trip with cultural significance. Not many things in the world can inspire you like seeing the Colosseum in Rome or the Pyramids in Egypt.

That is why traveling is known to provide people with a whole new perspective, whether that means no longer sweating the small stuff or promising to get out there and meet new people upon returning home. Those who have left their comfort zone and headed for a foreign land have done the right thing; there is nothing like a trip to make you a new man who has no choice but to fend for himself. Whether alone, with a partner, or in a group, your development surely speeds up when you're abroad.

2. Embrace new cultures

Not only does traveling provide a sense of adventure, but it also opens doors to cultures that do not revolve around MTV and McDonald's (or at least try hard not to). Though Americana has spread its wings on an international level, even a week abroad can serve to prove that people do live without the symbols that North Americans encounter every day.
Better yet, you will become appreciative of other cultures; instead of instinctively criticizing that which is "different," you will be motivated to accept new cuisine or alternative forms of entertainment. You never know; upon your return home, you might even forego the latest Vin Diesel blockbuster for a Bollywood flick.

3. Enjoy life like never before

Even for those of you who are not as culturally minded, traveling remains an appealing form of escape. In the dead of winter, with a foot of snow awaiting you outside your front door, what could be more tantalizing than a swim in the deep blue waters of Jamaica? Simply the attraction of the activities that are impossible to enjoy in your hometown make a trip worthwhile.

Experiences can range from the legendary (watching the running of the bulls in Pamplona, Spain) to the relaxing (enjoying a hot spring while snow swirls around you in Iceland), but they share one common link: they are all memorable. In every corner of the world, there is excitement waiting for you — it is simply a matter of sticking your head out and going for it.
Eat like crazy, and practice some tongue on the native ladies...

4. Satisfy your stomach

Food can make or break a vacation. If it's bad, it will surely put a negative spin on your stay. If it's good, however, then there is no limit to the amount of gluttonous enjoyment to be had. Sure you can buy coconuts from the local supermarket or make paella at home, but they cannot replace what you can find in their respective native lands.

In fact, the perfect dinner can make your stay complete; many insist that you cannot leave a certain city without trying a renowned dish, whether you're in Malaysia or Brazil.

Though most of your epicurean experiences will be pleasurable in nature, other meals can be considered rites of passage. For example, not many people can say they really visited what Guangzhou, China, has to offer without drinking an elixir of snake's blood. Sure, it may be unpleasant, but you'll impress the locals and will likely never forget the experience.

5. Pick up new languages

If education of the alternative kind is not on your "to-do" list, just think about the benefits of learning another language. Taking a semester off school or a leave of absence from work may seem irrational, but what if you returned with a strong grasp of German?
In a world where becoming bilingual or even trilingual can be beneficial at the office and in day-to-day life, traveling can serve as your gateway to success. Business is not only conducted in English, but also Spanish, Mandarin and Japanese. You want to land more business trips in the future? Plan a trip and learn a language abroad; you'll get a solid education and leave with great memories.

6. Widen your business opportunities

Speaking of moving up at the office, traveling can also increase your contacts if you keep your eyes open. Who knows what can happen over sushi in Tokyo; perhaps a new import/export opportunity for your business? The point is, as far out as it may seem, things always seem to come together when you least expect it. You could be partying it up on a remote island while on your two-week vacation and suddenly strike up a conversation with a fellow traveler, which could lead to some promising business talk.

7. Meet some lovely ladies

Okay, I know Copacabana is picturesque, but you owe it to yourself to take a look at who's sunbathing right next to you. Traveling provides hundreds of chances to meet and greet ladies of all types in an atmosphere where you should be unafraid of backlash. The carefree attitude that brought you to your destination in the first place should transcend to the social scene as well.
At the same time, realize that "no strings attached" is not an invitation to engage in a lot of debauchery. In fact, the opposite is known to happen, as travelers return home with their new loves by their sides. As long as you keep an open mind, who knows what could happen?

8. Admire true beauty

Whether you're a lover of history, architecture or nature, only travel will satisfy your passion. No words can describe the rush you feel when gazing upon the Mona Lisa or admiring the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. It is this reason, as well as the shivers one gets when witnessing an ocean sunset, that leads many to hop onto a plane.
Being able to say that you've seen four of the Seven Wonders of the World (and have the pictures to prove it) or some of the most important historical landmarks, is a claim like no other, and should make you incredibly proud. At the same time, these feats enrich your life.an invaluable experience

Whether you need to take a few weeks off to avoid the stress of work or need time off to contemplate where your life is headed, traveling should be your answer. At least once in your life, you should leave everything on pause and go somewhere, anywhere. Though it may not be obvious while you're sitting at home, the knowledge acquired from traveling is invaluable. You'll be enriched on many levels, and maybe you'll even meet that special someone.

Final tips

Remember to plan way ahead by researching hotels, hostels and must-see sites months before departure. Keep in mind, though, that it is important to leave room for some spontaneous decisions when you're actually there.

Once you've reached your destination, remember that sacrificing cheap thrills for the real deal is well worth it, but not when it comes to tourist traps (i.e. places that are simply overpriced and over hyped, with little cultural value). Check out the sites that you will most appreciate.

The most important thing, however, is to keep an open mind. Traveling is a luxury, so make the most of it.

Places To Be This Independence Day: For The Patriot Inside You

As Independence Day approaches and even those who work Saturdays finally get a weekend off, we’ve all been busy planning our weekend get-away and forgotten to focus on what the day really signifies. We’ve planned our trips to the closest holiday destinations and called all our friends for parties. But here’s the clincher, how many of us have planned a trip to a place of significant importance in our Independence.

Here’s a list of a few places you can visit for even a few minutes before going on with your plans.

Delhi: For all the residents of Delhi, take a trip to the Red Fort, Raj Ghat or the Gandhi Smriti. Let the Red Fort remind you of Jawahar Lal Nehru’s first speech as the Prime Minister of a free India. Let Raj Ghat remind you of the great leader that we had in Mahatma Gandhi who tirelessly worked to free our country and the Gandhi Smriti remind you of his ultimate sacrifice.

Ahmedabad: Drive down to Sabarmati Ashram where Mahatma Gandhi would train activists to join his non-violent civil disobedient movement. While you’re there, remember how many times you could have sorted out an issue without getting violent and how many times you chose the wrong method. Try making that a part of your life and the rest of the world will follow.

Allahabad: Take a walk in the Chandra Shekhar Azad Park and remember the promise he made to never be captured by the British and how when he was cornered, he took his own life but didn’t break his promise. Remember how it was in this very park that he fought his last fight for our independence.

Jhansi: Drive by the Jhansi Fort and remember how Rani Laxmi Bai escaped and led her forces to capture the fort in Gwalior and even though she succumbed in the final battle, she fought for our independence till her last breathe.

Kolkata: Take a little detour and drive up north from Kolkata to Barrackpore where Mangal Pandey fearlessly rose in rebellion and wounded two British officers with his sword. The park named after him should serve as a reminder to you that the country you live in and love got its independence with a lot of struggle.

Mumbai: For all the Mumbaikars, taking their Saturday off to have a good time out, walk along the paved paths of August Kranti Maidan. Remember how Gandhiji called for the Quit India movement and inspired everyone with a commitment to ‘Do or Die’.

So don’t just spend your day in the lap of luxury as you get a day off because if it wasn’t for the lives lost and the sacrifices made, who knows where we all would be.

How to reach Karaikudi from Chennai by road

Karaikudi is a city in the Southern state of Tamil Nadu. It is known for its temples. Few popular temples here include Kundrakudi Shanmuganathan Temple, Ariyakudi Thiruvengamudayan Temple and Pillayarpatti Karpagavinayagar temple. If you are planning to take a break from Chennai and head to Karaikudi, here’s how you can reach the city.
                         

By Bus

State run buses are available between Chennai and Karaikudi.

By Car

The distance between Chennai and Karaikudi is 420 km and it can be covered in 7.5 to 9 hours, depending on the chosen route and the flow of traffic. There are 2 routes that one can choose from to reach Karaikudi from Chennai. The shorter route includes driving through Grand Southern Trunk Road/NH45. An alternate route includes driving through NH4 and Grand Southern Trunk Road/NH45.

On the occasion of 69h Independence Day

"Untold Story of India" brings you interesting and unknown facts related to India and independence.

# The first version of the current national flag was made by Pingali Venkayya at Bezwada in 1921. It was made up of two colours-Saffron and green-representing the two major communities. Gandhiji suggested the addition of a white strip to represent the remaining communities of India and the spinning wheel to symbolise progress of the Nation.

# Khadi Development and Village Industries Commission is the only licenced flag production and supply unit in India.

# When India became independent on August 15, 1947 there was no National Anthem. Even though the Bengali invocation of Jana Gana Mana was written in 1911, it was not considered as national anthem till 1950.

# Controversy surrounding Jana Gana Mana claims that Rabindranath Tagore wrote the song ‘Jana Gana Mana’ for the British monarch. He later refuted this claim and said that he wrote the song as requested by his friend and the song pronounced the victory in ‘Jana Gana Mana’ of that Bhagya Vidhata of India and not of King George V.

# Mountbatten chose the day since Aug 15 as it also commemorated the second anniversary of Japan’s surrender to the Allied Forces. North Korea, South Korea, Bahrain and Republic of the Congo share their independence day with India. Also, he was forced to attend both the independence day functions in both countries. To avoid inconvenience, Mountbatten shifted Pak Independence Day to Aug 14, making it one day ahead to India's.

# Mahatma Gandhi, was not part of the Independence Day celebrations. He was fasting the entire time, protesting against the Hindu-Muslim riots that were taking place in Bengal.

# Interestingly, Mahatma Gandhi wanted the Congress to be disbanded immediately after India’s independence in 1947. This constitution was drafted by Gandhiji for the Congress on the eve of his assassination.

# After India’s independence, Portugal amended its constitution and declared Goa as a Portuguese state. Indian troops invaded Goa on December 19, 1961 and annexed it to India.

# India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Lal was featured in Vogue magazine. His unique dressing style, single-breasted jacket, became an important fashion trend in the West. Nehru jacket was listed on Time list of 'global fashion statement.' Later, Nehru jacket was popularised by the Beatles and worn by such famous people as Johnny Carson and Sammy Davis Jr.

Happy Independence Day. Jai Hind

Top things to do in Coorg

Gaddige Raja's Tomb

Built in the Indo-Sarcenic style of architecture, this beautiful structure of Gaddige Raja's tomb is the mortal remains of the Kodavad Royalty. These tombs date back to 1820

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Honnamana Kere Lake

The biggest lake in Coorg, this one has spiritual as well as historical significance. Named after Goddess Honnamana, adjacent to this lake is a temple dedicated to the goddess. The lake is surrounded by hills, coffee plantations and man made caves.

 Iruppu Falls

Originating from the Lakshmana Tirtha River, a tributary of Cauvery, these waterfalls have mythological significance. Monsoons are ideal to visit Iruppu Falls as it provides a great view of the gushing waters. The Rameshwara Temple is located near these falls.

 Madikeri Fort

Built in the 17th century by Muddu Raja using mud, the structure was rebuilt by Tipu Sultan in granite. Linga Rajendra Wodeyar II reconstructed it in brick and mortar between 1812 and 1814. Life size stone elephants are seen at the entrance. A panoramic view of the entire city is provided by the fort.

Mallalli Falls

One of the most beautiful waterfalls in Coorg, the location of Mallalli Falls is an ideal adventure spot as you can trek at Pushpagiri Peak before reaching the falls. The origin of these falls is where the river Kumaradhara takes a plunge.

Nalakunad Palace

It was the hunting lodge of Kodagu king dating back to 18th century. It is situated at the bottom of Coorg's highest peak Tadiyendamol.

 Pushpagiri Wildlife

Pushpagiri is one of the 21 wildlife sanctuaries in Karnataka and home to many rare and endangered species of birds. The Kumara Parvat peak lies here. This National Park is also a proposed World Heritage site. Brown Palm Civet, Indian Giant Squirrel, Spotted Deer, Sambar, Indian Muntjac, Gaur, Asian Elephant, Wild Pig, Giant Flying Squirrel, Travancore Flying, Stripe-necked mongoose and mouse deer are some of the animal species found here.

Raja's Seat

The relaxing venue for the Kings of Kodagu, the view from Raja's Seat is unparalleled. The breathtaking view of sun setting into the undulated mountains is mesmerizing. The garden here is adorned with multitude of flowers.

 

Somwarpet

Somwarpet, a town in the north east of the Coorg district, has several tourist attractions, the main being Beelur Golf Club along with the Mallalli Falls and the Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary.

 

Talacauvery

The place of origin of the Cauvery river from the Brahmagiri Hills, Talacauvery is extremely sacred and hence attracts many tourists and devotees.

Handy hints for first-time Mumbai visitors

 Mumbai - Knowing what you're in for will make it easier to adjust. #farebucket

Some advice:

• Personal space does not exist in India; locals will crowd around, stare and pester you for business. Decline politely - there's no need to be rude.

• Despite the heat, it's polite for female to cover their shoulders and knees. Carry a scarf to cover your head when entering places of worship.

• Never pay full price at the market. Open bidding at a third of the asking price and settle for less than half. Ask for tour discounts, too.

• When an Indian wiggles their head to and fro, it means something like "OK, fine."

• Homosexuality is still a taboo subject in India, but it's not uncommon to see straight men walking hand in hand or cuddling affectionately.

• There is a high incidence of infectious diseases in India, even in major cities. Ask your doctor for advice about vaccines and medication, and come prepared.