Lessons from Abroad on Meaningful Education

P Bhaskaran Nayar,  former professor of Lincoln University, UK, speaks on the glaring difference between the education system in India and abroad



by Athul Lal A G

Kozhikode: Every year, when winter begins to engulf London, he flies down to the warmth of Kozhikode. Roosted in a cosy apartment on the sixth floor of Skyline Apartments, facing the beach, he becomes one among  Kozhikodens, though he is really not.  Sometimes there are heated discussions with friends in Kozhikode or interactions with college students in the city.  And occasionally,  he reviews those research papers which are sent by foreign universities before flying back home after two or three months.

Meet P Bhaskaran Nayar,  former professor of Lincoln University, UK, who has been adopting the life of a migratory bird for the past five years. Nayar was born in Myanmar, brought up in Ottapalam, Palakkad, studied in Guruvayoorappan College and Victoria College, Palakkad, and started his career as an English teacher at St Albert's College, Kochi.  He has taught English in various universities of six different countries in a span of 48 years. Now, the septuagenarian possesses a British citizenship. His family is settled in London.

His first stint abroad was in Ethiopia with the Ministry of Education. After nine years, he worked in Papua New Guinea, the United States and Singapore and finally settled in London.

So, what brings you to Kozhikode?  ``Actually, I had no affiliation with Kozhikode, except for the fact that I was a student of Guruvayoorappan College. But, after retirement I wanted to spend some time in Kerala and somehow, I chose Kozhikode,'' says Nayar, who looks very much like a Malayali, but speaks exactly as a Brit, if not better.

"Having joined as a faculty with a foreign university, I felt pity for the students I taught in Kerala and at the Bombay University. I found that teaching was entirely different and relevant abroad. As teachers, we needed to constantly update our knowledge about the subject and share the inputs to students. We had to publish at least one article every year. Unfortunately, here, we still follow the age-old way of teaching textbooks alone. Nothing more and nothing less. Students are cramped with information, but they are totally ignorant of its applicability. They learn for the sake of obtaining certificates,'' says Nayar.

And what would you suggest? ``A total revamp of higher education,'' Nayar says, instantaneously. ``For, the British had designed this education system here then only to make sure that they had sufficient number of clerks to serve in government offices,'' he adds.

Nayar wants the affiliated college system to be discontinued. ``You need at least 30 universities for a million people. More importantly, the colleges under a university should be within a radius of five miles. In the present set-up, universities have shrunk to administrative bodies with too many affiliated colleges. Neither do they control education nor its quality,'' he notes.

But, there are people who have become successful in life after passing out from these universities. ``That is because they were good in spite of the system and were highly  adaptable,'' he says.

Nayar is also disappointed about the fact that libraries are largely underutilised. ``When I ask students here about how many times they have been to a library, they hesitate and say one or two. That is not their fault, but of the system. A few years ago, I sent letters to all the universities in the state, expressing my interest in donating my books for free. Believe it or not, nobody responded,'' says Nayar, who latter donated the books to Malabar Christian College.

About future plans, can we expect a book or an autobiography? ``Not really. Currently, I am editing journals for the Canadian English Language Teaching journal. No major plans. Just to go on with this routine,'' Nayar, who had been a regular columnist in Ethiopian Herald, signs off.

(The New Indian Express City Express Jan 22, 2014)

A Born Dog Lover

When Sathish was around five years old, his family and relatives went to Ooty on a holiday. It was not the beautiful landscape that caught his attention, but some cute German Shepherd puppies, which had been kept for sale by the lake. When his parents refused to buy one for him, Sathish grabbed a puppy and quickly ran towards the bus.

“I don’t remember what exactly happened afterwards. But, my parents and relatives often make fun of me over that incident,’’ Sathish said.

For S. Sathish - ‘Pakku’ to his family and friends - this obsession with pets was not a childhood fancy. Love for animals, particularly dogs, comes quite naturally to him. A visit to his house, ‘Aayilyam’, at Govindamangalam near Ooruttambalam, on the outskirts of the city, would prove this fact.

‘Aayilyam’ is literally a jungle of pets. Sathish owns more than 30 dogs, including eight Labradors, two Great Danes, five Rottweilers, two Dachshunds, four German Shepherds, two French Bull Dogs, one Neapolitan Mastiff and a pug.

“When I was in the eighth standard, I had caught 16 water snakes and conducted an exhibition in school. Besides, I used to bring young street dogs home,’’ said Sathish, who is a lift technician by profession.

Sathish set up the present kennel around ten years ago. He has a thorough knowledge of pets and is a regular participant in dog shows and exhibitions. What makes his kennel special is that most of the breeds are of a direct lineage of original foreign breeds.

“Dogs commonly available here are either a cross or may be the puppies of some 30th or 40th generation. In order to get the puppies from the original bloodline, I buy the puppies from kennels in Chennai and Delhi, where they mate the original breeds. And, I can tell the exact lineage of all the dogs in my kennel,’’ he said.

Sathish shares a deep relationship with all his dogs. “Everyone has a name. Once they hear the sound of my bike, all of them start barking in a particular manner. It will continue till I take a quick round of the kennel and pat everyone on the head calling their names,’’ he said.

The dogs also hold a special attachment with Sathish and his family members. “My younger daughter, when she was around three years old, went outside the compound. I was not there. My wife and mother did not see her as they were in the backyard. Suddenly, Appu (a Labrador) started barking violently. When my wife reached the kennel, she noticed that the gate was left open. She rushed outside. By that time, some of our relatives, who were passing by, brought the child inside,’’ Sathish said.

In contrast, Sathish has faced some sad incidents too. “Unlike Labs, Rottweilers cannot be trusted. Once, Rocky, a Rottweiler, had bitten my daughter’s hands. The injury was so severe that there were over 12 stitches on her hand,’’ he said.

And, Sathish had to remove Rocky from his kennel soon after. “My daughter and Appu are great friends. This incident had occurred in front of Appu. After this incident, Appu started attacking Rocky everytime and finally I decided to give Rocky away,’’ Sathish said.

Though Labrador is the most tame of the lot and will become a member of the family very quickly, Doberman is the best as a watch dog. “Doberman is vigilant, has an attacking mentality and has a big size. Besides, he will consider only one person as his master,’’ he said.

Sathish’s wife Sandhya and mother Shyamala Devi assist him in his endeavour. Besides dogs, Sathish also has a collection of around 200 Bonsai specimens, an orchid cultivation and diverse types of birds and ornamental fishes in his house.

THE NEW INDIAN EXPRESS CITY EXPRESS SEPTEMBER 2009

Swami Saranam: Spiritual Journey Through The Deep Woods

How long do we have to walk through the forest? Father, are there any wild animals in it?” As eight-year-old Akshaya began her journey to Sabarimala from Kalaketti near Erumeli, she was full of doubts.

I had the same thoughts as well while reaching the Azhuthakadavu (Pampa Valley), from where the pilgrims begin their barefoot journey through the forest.

It was her maiden trip along this 26km traditional route through the dense Periyar Tiger Reserve forest in Pathanamthitta district to the abode of Lord Ayyappa.

Akshaya, the young Malikappuram , (While men are addressed as ‘Swamis’, women devotees are called as ‘Malikppurams’) was one among a group from Kattakada in Thiruvananthapuram. Like them, thousands of Ayyappa devotees, from across the country opt to take this traditional route for their annual pilgrimage to the hill shrine.

Clad in dark blue or saffron dhotis and kurtas, and holding the Irumudikkettu , they started climbing the first hill known as the Azhuthakayattam around 9 am. I also joined them.

It’s a strenuous journey through the rocky terrain. The tract is so steep that sometimes one would have to stoop so low to keep balance that the head would almost touch the knee as if in penance. Heaving long sighs every now and then, the pilgrims inched forward.

At first, Akshaya appeared quite energetic and was moving at a good pace along the steep rocky terrain, holding her father Prasanth’s hand. For them, the pilgrimage was part of an offering to Lord Ayyappa.

“Akshaya had some heart problems soon after she was born. Doctors said we had to go for an operation if the problem persisted. At that time, we prayed to Lord Ayyappa that Akshaya would be brought to Sabarimala thrice if she were cured of her illness. Fortunately, there was no need for an operation,” Prasanth said.

Meanwhile, Akshaya starts showing signs of discomfort. “We can sit here, father,” she said. Soon, one of her uncles began narrating the story of the fight between Lord Ayyappa and Mahishi.

 As they slowed down their pace a bit, I joined a three-member group from Palakkad. Over the past decade, Abhilash and Ajith have been visiting Sabarimala through this forest route. Anurenj joined them this year. Each was carrying a stone.

“While taking bath in Azhutha, each devotee takes the first stone that touches his hand. Later, the stone will be thrown in Kallidamkunnu, a place at the summit of the Azhuthakayattam. It is said that Lord Ayyappa had buried the body of Mahishi at that place after defeating her.

The stone is deposited over there to commemorate the victory. Another belief is that each pilgrim gets a stone as large as the amount of sins they committed. Once they throw this stone at Kallidamkunnu, pilgrims will be freed from the sins,” said Ajith, an asthma patient. His was the smallest stone.

“Swami padam, Swami padam,” somebody behind me sounded. At first, I was confused. Then, Abhilash told me that he was asking for way, a unique form of communication during pilgrimage. That swami was holding a long bamboo stick fixed with 37 sanctified silver pieces.

“This shows the number of times I have visited Sabarimala,” said Vasudevan. He was once touched by a miracle.

“Our only sister Retnamma had speech problems. In 1970, we brought her to Sabarimala. As soon as she completed climbing the Pathinettampadi (18-holy steps), she called ‘Swamiye’. After that I regularly visit Sabarimala,” said Vasudevan, a police head constable.

 “Vasudevan is popularly known as police swami in Pambadi,” said Shan, a youth from Ranni and an employee with the Social Welfare Board.

This is the sixth time that Shan is travelling through the route. “The pilgrimage will become complete only if we travel through this route. There is silence everywhere and it offers a day of total devotion,” he said.

After one and a half hours of arduous journey, we reached Kallidamkunnu. It’s a small hill of rounded stones. While watching the pilgrims depositing stones, I had some lemon soda from a wayside stall.

Every season, the Sabarimala Ayyappa Poonkavana Punarudharana Eco Development Committee (SAPP EDC) sets up pilgrim service centres along the forest route.

 Apart from light refreshments, they offer space to put the Viri (mat) . There are around 200 EDC stalls along the Azhutha–Pampa stretch.

“One steep hill is over. Now, it’s a few kms of even land,” Shan said. On the way, all the devotees visit the Sastha Temple at the Injipparakotta, which is managed by the Mala Araya tribes.

“The deity here is warrior Ayyappa with bows and arrows. Villan, a member of the Mala Araya tribe, offered help to Ayyappa in his mission to collect the milk of a tigress and later Villan became a friend of Ayyappa.”

As we came out of the temple office, the young Malikappuram Akshaya was seen carried on her uncle’s shoulders. Perhaps, her uncle had run out of stories.

Our next destination is Mukkuzhi and we decided to have our lunch there. By noon, it had started raining. But the pilgrims continue to walk after covering the Irumudikettu with plastic.



At 2 pm we stopped at the Puthussery Thavalam for lunch. From the EDC stall, we had Kappa-Kanji (tapioca and boiled rice). All the provisions required for the stalls are brought as headloads through the same undulating forest route.

 “To bring one kg of provision, we have to pay Rs 10. At a time, a worker carries around 30-kg provision. Apart from that, we have to give them food as well,” said Chacko, the convenor of the Puthusserry EDC.

“The major challenge of the journey awaits ahead, the Karimala,” Shan said. After some small talk with the forest officials in Puthussery, we set out to climb the Karimala. It was a steep hill. Most of the pilgrims used a stick for a support. Loud chants of ‘Sarana Ayyappa’ reverberated in the verdant forest tracts.

The intermittent rains had made the surface very slippery. But, the thick roots of the mighty trees, snaking above the ground, offered a firm grip to the devotees. We walked for five minutes and took rest for two. The heart gets worked up every five minutes. It turned difficult for Ajith to keep up. We waited for him.

Minutes later, I joined Karimala section Forester Aliyar on his daily patrol in the area. I was struggling to keep up with Aliyar. I was quite surprised to see an old woman climbing the Karimala.

After two hours, we reached the summit of Karimala. The Akhila Bharatha Ayyappa Seva Sanghom volunteers, the only organisation that offers free food to devotees on the forest route, invited us for tea.


Soon, we started climbing down Karimala. Aliyar left at the limits of his section. The journey was slow as the rain had made the sloppy terrain very slippery.

A minor slip could leave a person with several fractures. There was also a chance that one would land deep into the forest. It was getting darker and the mist was getting thicker.

As every step became harder, I could hear the unclear but not too distant sounds of the bustle in Pampa. By then, I had been walking for around one and a half hours from Karimala. The sounds whispered, ‘you are almost there. It is just a few steps ahead.’ Through the thick leaves could be seen the glint of Pampa.

Brooding for a while about the little Malikappuram, Akshaya who had by then been left behind by my older and nimble feet. I immersed myself in the sea of devotees in Pampa, who were in for another four kilometres journey to the holy shrine of Lord Ayyappa.


THROUGH THE PULMEDU ROUTE

The Kozhikkanam-Uppupara-Pulmedu route, approximately 7 km through the Periyar Tiger Reserve Forest, is most convenient for pilgrims crossing the state border at Kumily. Instead of travelling to Pampa via Erumeli, pilgrims can directly reach Sabarimala through this route.

From Kumily, it takes only three hours to reach Uppupara from where the pilgrims start their barefoot journey to Sabarimala. Pilgrims can reach the holy shrine in two hours from there. The journey via Erumeli takes double the time to reach Pampa. Then, pilgrims face another 4 km stretch. The Pulmedu path joins the Sannidhanam premises near the Uralkuzhi Theertham. KSRTC operates chain services to Uppupara from Kumily during the pilgrim season. There are regular jeep services from Uppupara to Kumily. The journey through the stretch is regulated as movement of elephant herds is common. Travel is permitted from 6 am to 6 pm.

THE NEW INDIAN EXPRESS SUNDAY MAGAZINE 2010

Praveen Prem and His Eight Year Long Struggle

At first sight, he strikes you as someone brimming with humor.

A talkative, roly-poly youngster with a wide, innocent smile. But underneath that layer of jollity, there lies a story of hardships.

Cinema is - and has been - his only passion. Soon after school he set out to become an actor. But, it took eight long years of struggle for him to make a mark. And when he made it, he did it with a bang.

Meet Praveen Prem, who breathed life into Harichandran, the ambitious junior singer in Sathyan Anthikad’s recent flick ‘Katha Thudarunnu.’ Though a small role, it indeed was a giant leap for Praveen’s budding career. Just like a summer shower after a prolonged drought.

Born into a lower middle class family settled in Balaramapuram in the outskirts of the city, the road to cinema was not smooth for Praveen. Soon after completing Plus Two, he decided to walk into the film industry. Except for a burning desire to act and numerous certificates he got during his school days for acting, he had nothing to boast of. Neither did he have a film background nor friends in the industry.

"Nothing worked for me initially, I was very confused. I didn’t know which way to go. In fact, I was in a dilemma whether I should become an actor, a director or a technician. But, I always loved acting. The only thing then I had in my mind was to associate with film-making somehow," says Praveen, who now lives at Karamana.

As days passed by, Praveen decided to study cinema to learn where his talents lay. "I began watching films. From the 10th edition of the IFFK, I actively participated in film festivals and voluntarily worked for the Chalachitra Academy. To meet daily expenses I worked as a marketing executive, a salesman and also worked at the State Institute of Languages," says Praveen, who made up his mind to become a technician after seeing the Tamil movie ‘Annyan.’

Praveen adds, "The movie shook my mind like anything. It instilled more confidence in me" But his attempt to join for the cinematography course at Adyar proved futile. However, he managed to do an editing course. "As soon as I completed the course, I got an opportunity to assist Mahesh Narayanan in several ad films. Soon, I came across so many persons involved in film making and became more focused," he says.

Slowly, but steadily, things started happening for him. To his luck, he got a chance to be part of the Soorya Theatre Festival. "It was the turning point for me. I acted in Soorya Krishnamoorthy sir’s drama ‘Pulari.’ During one of the shows, I met Sreebala K Menon, the assistant of Sathyan Anthikad who had turned up to watch the drama. She was impressed with my performance and I conveyed my interest in acting in films. I was asked to meet Sathyan sir. That happened in October 2009 and he just said, ‘Will let you know'," Praveen says.

It was a New Year gift- the much-awaited call from Sreebala in the first week of 2010 asking Praveen to join the shoot of Sathyan Anthikad’s new film. "I joined the film crew at Kozhikode. I was given a room and some acting tips initially. A costumer came and took measurements for my dress. In the first three days, there was no shoot. ‘Praveen, you just watch and understand things,’ I was told,'' memories started rolling out, scene by scene.

The D-day was February 1.

Praveen was given four lines of a song ‘Kizhakkumala kammalitta thankathalam / kalikkalam / olithadam / Urakkayoru mangalathin thakilthalam / Muzhakkidam perukkidam, ’ and was asked to memorize it. He roamed around the shooting site reciting these lines.

After taking blessings from KPAC Lalitha, Praveen stepped before the camera. 'Now we can see how many rolls will be wasted,' came the comment from cinematographer Venu," Praveen remembers with a chuckle.

All eyes were on the debutant. It was a close-up shot and he was asked to sing those four lines. "After a rehearsal, we went for a take. As soon as I finished singing, Sathyan sir said, ‘Ok, good!’ The first take was ok," he still has that excitement on his face.

"A small character in the film. But, for me, it was a big thing. To work with Sathyan sir, Venu, Jayaram, KPAC Lalitha and Innocent - the biggies of Malayalam film and, of course, to sing a song composed by Ilayaraja," says 25-year-old Praveen. He also dubbed for the character.

Soon, a flurry of offers came his way. "I have the confidence in doing whatever roles given to me. It’s a good beginning and I will continue putting in the same effort as earlier. And the rest lies in the hands of the Almighty," Praveen signs out.

(The New Indian Express, July 2010)

Invisible Nightingale

Think of ‘Manjil Virinja Pookkal’ and a series of landmarks will rise up in your mind: Mohanlal’s entry, Fazil’s debut, the Shankar-Poornima pairing, and Jerry Amaldev’s romantic melodies.

Yet another breakthrough happened, less talked-about but equally impressive. A new voice for Malayalam heroines. Anandavally gave voice to Prabha, the character played by Poornima Jayaram.

Her brilliant rendition in the movie catapulted her to the throne of the queen of Malayalam dubbing industry, with a flurry of offers coming her way. She reigned as the most sought-after dubbing artist during the 80s and 90s, the period they call the golden period of Malayalam cinema.

‘‘The film was a turning point in my career. In fact, it was a recognition that my voice was apt for heroines. Soon, producers and directors started recommending my voice for heroines,’’ says Anandavally, the veteran dubbing artist.

Thereafter, Anandavally have not looked back. As of now, she has dubbed for more than 3,000 films and is still active. She was the exclusive choice of several leading heroines.

Geetha, for instance. Anandavally dubbed for Geetha in all the 123 films she acted in Malayalam. Their combination won her a State Award for the film ‘Aadharam’. Silk Smitha was the other actor with whom Anandavally struck a fruitful partnership.

Besides, she gave her voice to almost all the roles played by Sumalatha, Ambika, Parvathy and Gouthami in Malayalam.

The list is never ending - Suhasini, Sobhana, Sukanya, Sarada, Saritha, Suchitra, Menaka, Bangalore Bharathi, Bhanupriya, Rekha, Revathi, Renjini, Mohini, Nanditha Bose, Vinayaprasad, Urvashi, Karthika, Kanaka, Khushboo, Madhavi, Urmila Unni, Unni Mary, Santhikrishna and so on.

The variety is mind boggling. If she made Silk Smitha sound tantalisingly sensuous, it was warmth and love that she aroused through the grandmother (played by Sarada) in Lohitadas’s ‘Kanmadham’.

The most amazing aspect, perhaps, is none of the heroines for whom she had given voice sounds the same. ‘‘That’s because I have not given my original voice to anyone. I make variations in my sound depending upon actresses,’’ Anandavally says.

In 1978, two years before ‘Manjil Virinja Pookkal’ happened, Anandavally had shifted to Chennai, the cradle of Malayalam cinema in those days. ‘‘During those days, from 1985 to 1998 to be precise, it was very challenging as I used to dub for seven to eight films in a day. For me, the day used to begin at AVM studio, then revolved around Prasad Studio, Suresh Mahal, Venus Studio, Vasu Studio and Kalpaka Studio. In the film ‘Sthalathe Pradhana Payyans’, I had dubbed for five characters,’’ she sighs, as though looking back the feat seemed impossible to her.

‘‘Truly, unthinkable. Now, most of you will hardly believe this,’’ adds the 56 year-old artist, whose career in Malayalam films began as an actress.

Born into an agricultural family at Veliyam, Anandavally used to sing for dramas even while a teenager. But, unexpectedly, her acting skills were put to test in front of a large audience during an exceptionally hot night in 1969. ‘‘I went to sing for the drama ‘Chithalu Kayariya Bhoomi’. Just minutes before the drama commenced, the director came and said that the main actress didn’t turn up. Anandavally should act. I was shocked. I was very lean and did not have the looks of a heroine as well. Besides, renowned dramatist O Madhavan was seated in the front row. Any way, I managed to perform. After the show, O Madhavan came to me and appreciated the effort. That gave me the confidence and soon I started performing in several dramas of KPAC and Kalidasa Kalakendram,’’ she says.

Later, Anandavally entered the film industry through the film ‘Kadu’ and went on to act in around 40 films. She also worked as an announcer with the All India Radio. ‘‘In 1973, I debuted as a dubbing artist. I gave my sound for actress Rajasri in the film ‘Devi Kanyakumari’,’’ she said.

And what was the most difficult role she dubbed for? The answer came promptly - dubbing for the climax of the film ‘Akashadoothu’. ‘‘It took a lot of time. Most of the time, I became so emotional that I could not say the dialogue. Similar instances occurred during the dubbing of the ‘Aadharam’ as well,’’ she says.

Anandavally is still active through films and serials. She has dubbed for Sudha Chandran in the film ‘Alexander The Great’, Chitra Shenoy in ‘Rajamanikyam’ and for Ambika in ‘Thanthonni’. ‘‘I wish I continue this for a long time, ‘’she says.

Now, Anandavally who lives with her son Diphan and family at Thampuran Nagar near Nemom in the city, has a dream. ‘‘I want to pen an autobiography. Earlier, I used to write down my experiences. Now, I have to sort those collections and make it in the form of a book,’’ says Anandavally, who owes all her success to the Almighty.

Diphan, who is now a director to be reckoned with after the huge success of ‘Puthiya Mukham’, could at some point of time may translate his mother’s dreams onto the celluloid.

The New Indian Express, 2010

Goodbye sloth, hello freshness!

The adage has it that the pouring rains bring forth a horde of health problems along with their rhythmic beats. As the Karkadakam, the lean month of the Malayalam calendar, sets in Kerala, amidst the heavy monsoon showers, Kalari centres have become active with the traditional treatment—‘Karkadaka Chikitsa’—to rejuvenate the human body.

From time immemorial, the people used to undergo this special rejuvenation therapy between mid-June and mid-August. According to traditional Kalari experts, the rainy season is the ideal period to cleanse the body, and to expel the toxins.

Somehow, this indigenous therapy got sidelined with the revolution in modern medicine which offered instant relief from diseases. The traditional method was practiced only in the households of Kalari experts and those who learn the martial art. Even successive governments treated it as a tool to promote the tourism sector. Consequently, the treatment became a luxury for the common man, as spa and massage centres sprouted all over the state.

“These days, the human body is hardly in tune with nature due to the busy and mechanical lifestyle,” says S K Rajesh Gurukkal of Bhargava Kalari Sanghom in Kottooli in Kozhikode. “Environmental pollution, and the intake of excessive fats through fish and meat products, clubbed with the consumption of alcohol, drugs and tobacco, lead to the accumulation of toxins, making the body vulnerable to diseases. Stress, lack of exercise and indiscriminate use of painkillers accelerate the chances of getting diseases.”

The toxins are flushed out through processes determined by the ‘Gurukkal’—the master of the Kalari—according to the ‘Prakriti’ (constitution) of the patient. ‘Darsana Sparsana Prasne’—detecting the problems by sight, touch and questioning—is the methodology adopted by the masters to detect the problems in the body, and to determine the type of treatment to be given.

“By watching the sitting or the standing posture of a person, we can understand which part of his body is weak,” says Rajesh. “While sitting, one may, unknowingly, put his hand under the cheek for a support. The person will not be aware, as it is purely due to a command given by the unconscious mind. This indicates a problem in his neck. And the reason may be very simple —a swelling in the neck due to a muscular spasm which causes accumulation of watery fluids in a particular area. Over the years, it will become thick and affect the blood circulation leading to fatal consequences. The only solution is to unfreeze this clot through exercise and massage.”

Every person who comes for treatment has to do certain exercises. After its completion, the master determines the mode of treatment, its duration and the dietary restrictions. The treatment involves Panchakarma, Uzhichil, steam bath, oil massage and Ayurvedic medicines.

“Usually, the treatment is carried out between 5 a.m. and 8.30 a.m. After that the person can go for work. But he or she should avoid non-vegetarian food, consumption of alcohol, smoking and sex,” says Rajesh.

As of now, over 80 Kalari centres exist in Kozhikode district itself offering various modes of ‘Karkadaka Chikitsa’. Besides, Kalari centres are also active in Kannur and Malappuram districts. “There is a 30 per cent increase in the number of youngsters arriving for treatment,” says Sudhakaran Gurukkal of C V N Kalari, Edakkad in Kozhikode. “It is the most encouraging trend this season.”

This indicates the re-emergence of ‘Karkadaka Chikitsa’, especially in the Kalaris of the Malabar region. And the customers are satisfied.

“I have lost six kg after the five-day therapy,” says a business executive, who is undergoing the traditional treatment at the Bhargava Kalari Centre.

(The New Indian Express, Sunday Magazine, 2011)

An Eternal Romance With Kathakali

It was the annual day celebration at the Malabar Institute of Medical Sciences (MIMS) in Kozhikode last December. The battery of events included a Kathakali performance—Duryodhanavadham. The tale from Mahabharata was indeed riveting. The real surprise came at the end. Patients, their companions and a majority of the hospital staff were astonished when they realised that Krishna’s character was performed by none other than their very own veteran Pediatrician Dr Sudha Krishnanunni.

Dr Sudha is daughter of P K S Raja, the present Zamorin (royal title) of Kozhikode has been doing a balancing act for the last few decades. For, she has been serving as a pediatrician and performing ‘Kathakali’ quite comfortably. The sexagenarian physician, before joining MIMS had a successful stint at the Government Medical College, Kozhikode. The pediatrician is now into her 25th year as an artist.

Sudha’s love affair with Kathakali began after witnessing the art at her mother’s house in Nilambur Kovilakam, the cultural heart of Nilambur, a place in Malappuram district. “Then we were based in Chennai and used to come to Kerala during school vacations. Kathakali recitals were common during festivals. We had a temple inside the Nilambur Kovilakam and the whole family used to regularly go to enjoy the recitals. I was amazed by the dancer’s expressions, movement of the eyeballs, eyelids and fingers.’’

Dr Sudha, then a 10-year-old girl conveyed her interest in learning Kathakali to her maternal uncle. “Initially, he thought it was just a fascination. Besides, a few women practiced the art at that time. But when he realised that I was deeply interested, he arranged a Kathakali teacher at our residence in Nungumbakkam, Chennai,’’ she said.

The outhouse of her residence soon became a Kathakali school. Around 25 students also joined the class and we started to perform in and around Chennai. “It was not just a passion or a hobby. Our Guru Balakrishnan was very particular and we received a proper basic course,’’ said Dr Sudha, who did her Arengettam (debut on-stage performance) at Guruvayur in 1960. She continued her practice even after getting admission to MBBS.

While doing her MD in Oxford University in UK in 1988, she performed Kathakali there as well. “It was really a wonderful experience. Students and faculty were keen to know about the art. After a brief enactment, I demonstrated them various Mudras and make-up of characters as they were very interested to learn Kathakali,’’ Dr Sudha added.

Besides, she performed at several stages in Mumbai, Trichy, Chennai, Coimbatore and Kerala. Dr Sudha, usually portrays lord Krishna’s character in Kuchelavritham, Duryodhanavadham, Rukmini Swayamvaram, Lavanasuramardhanam and Gurudakhina. She plays the role of Panchali in Keechakabadham, Lalitha in Kirmeeravadham and Uthara in Uthara Swayamvaram. She also excelled in solo Kathakali performance, Poothana Moksham.

Once in a while Dr. Sudha does a refresher course at the Cheliya Kathakali Vidyalayam in Kozhikode, founded by noted Kathakali exponent Guru Chemencheri Kunhiraman Nair. Dr Sudha feels that Kathakali is making a comeback in Kerala. “After the 1990s, I think, interest in Kathakali declined significantly. There was a period when it even disappeared from the temple festivals. Now, things have changed a lot,’’ she said.

Dr Sudha is the vice-chairman of ‘Navarasam’, a cultural organization based in Kozhikode which is working for revival of Kathakali. It also provides opportunities for talented children to learn the art. She is also the active member of Thodayam Kathakali Yogam and Sopanam, which work for promotion of traditional arts, forms particularly Kathakali.

Sudha is all praise for her husband Krishnanunni Raja for his support and appreciation. “Being her husband it’s unfair to comment on her performance, but one thing I must say. I appreciate her sincerity and dedication for taking a lot of pain and perform Kathakali even at this age,’’ added K Raja.

(The New Indian Express, Sunday Magazine)

Shortcut to wealth: Divorce 'n' remarry

Cashing in on the naivete of uneducated and conservative families, a shocking fraud where lakhs of rupees change hands with each ‘marriage transactions’ has been thriving in Kozhikode for the last few months. Legal experts and women NGOs like Anweshi and NISA are foxed by this alarming new trend in the ‘marriage trade’ where the bride-to-be is required to pay off her husband's current wife.

They may call it alimony in the civilised world but this is a crude version where the first wife would be lucky to get off with the money her family had paid her husband many years ago. In many cases, these hapless women are coerced to sign for a larger amount while only a fraction of it is actually paid to her. What is more, her husband has no future responsibility to look after the children from the marriage that has thus been annulled.

This is how it operates. A youngster from a relatively poor family manages to find a bride with a substantial dowry, though the word dowry is rarely used. He opens a business or lands a job using this money –  he might even manage to go abroad – the thought of acquiring a better social status and a new wife creeps in.

Taking advantage of the liberal marital laws existing in his community, he decides to remarry. Once he finds a girl who fits the bill, the negotiations begin. Getting rid of the existing wife and children becomes the major headache.

Finally, the new-found bride and her family are compelled to repay the first wife's dowry. Some families even do this without much compelling, said NGOs. All this is done under the cover of an ‘agreement’ entered between husband and wife.

What’s interesting is that this practice is not confined to a particular community in Kozhikode. The NGOs have stumbled upon the fraud in both Muslim and Hindu communities, but with slight modifications tailored to suit the different marriage laws. More than 100 such incidents have been reported by Anweshi alone.

Legal experts say that the majority of the cases are linked with the middle and lower middle class families of the Muslim community. “As far as Hindus are concerned, such an agreement is not legally valid until the divorce. So, the man would come to a tacit understanding with his prospective bride's family regarding the pay-off for his current wife,” said A C Ambika, senior advocate and legal advisor to Anweshi.

The agreement would be crafted in such a manner as to create the impression that the husband and wife had mutually agreed to the divorce and the former had gifted a substantial sum to the latter. Also it would emphasise that the wife was fully satisfied with the settlement and she would not question it in Court.

Ambika said that the agreement only serves the interest of the husband as he ensures his former wife does not drag him into trouble.

“What is shocking is the fact that the women come up with complaints not because their husbands divorce them without reason but because this so-called marriage contract has been violated. And, even after registering complaints both parties always try to make a settlement without our knowledge,” says Anitha, senior counsellor with Anweshi in Kozhikode.

Activist V P Suhara, who has been vocal against the misuse of Islamic marriage laws, said that the police cases are rarely registered since the girls are usually minors when they are married off.  “If you really want to end the exploitation of Muslim women, make marriage registration mandatory. Now, marriages are properly registered only for official purposes like getting a passport,” she said.

(The New Indian Express, November 2012)

Isaac Busy Penning Success Story of ULCCS

Former Minister T M Thomas Isaac

Giving a short break to politics, former Finance Minister and MLA T M Thomas Isaac is busy penning a book.

At the tranquil premises of Government Guest House in Kozhikode, the leading economist-cum-politician is scripting the success story of Uralungal Labour Contract Cooperative Society (ULCCS). “See, this is something to be celebrated. ULCCS is a marvel; a classic example of a democratic cooperative, which has developed without compromising on efficiency. Now, we need to showcase its success story nationally and internationally,’’ Isaac says.

The book is likely to be titled, 'Modernisation and Diversification in a Workers’ Cooperative — The Story of ULCCS.’ As of now, Isaac has completed five chapters and the book will have national and international editions. “Certain chapters of the book will be discussed in the upcoming international conference on ‘Cooperatives in Transition in the Era of Globalisation’ jointly organised by the Uralungal Labour Contract Cooperative Society Limited, Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai, and Indian Institute of Management, Kozhikode, from September 18 to 20,’’ he says.

Surely, writing a book, which is more of an academic kind, is tedious. But Isaac appears passionate. His association with the ULCCS began when he was spearheading the 'People’s Plan Movement’ in the state as a Planning Board member in the E K Nayanar Cabinet, way back in the late 1990s. “We wanted to avoid contractors and were badly in search of labour cooperatives. Though we tried beneficiary samithis, it did not work out as they were benamis of contractors. Finally, we learnt about ULCCS in Kozhikode, having a turnover of around `5 crore and were surprised to see its style of functioning. They strictly followed an independent profit-loss line of activity with separate monitoring systems for financial flow and physical flow for each projects. We then declared it as a model society,’’ he says.

The rest is history. ULCCS Limited has now emerged as a cooperative with a turnover of around `200 crore. An ISO 9001:2008 certified organisation, the Society provides direct employment to more than 2,000 workers. More importantly, ULCCS Cyber Park is being constructed by the ULCCS IT Infrastructure Private Limited, a company promoted by ULCCS LTD. “Now the mission is to take its turnover to `1,000 crore in 10 years. For this, ULCCS has to follow the development model of the Mondragon Corporation in Spain, one of the largest worker cooperatives in the world, " Isaac says.

What should be done? “There should be a total revamp in the financial management and treasury management. The management should think of setting up a modern design centre and launch lab-testing consultancy services. Publishing a book, launching national and international campaigns and conferences are the other parts,’’ Isaac lists out.

(The New Indian Express, September 2013)

Inside the Other Garden of Eden

Wake up to the
chirping of birds
and open your eyes
to the unobstructed view
of the misty mountains

 

Let the dew drops kiss you. Let the gentle cool winds sing you a lullaby. Let the warmth of sunlight embrace you. In the simplest way, nature refreshes one’s body, mind and spirit at the ‘My Garden of Eden’ plantation resort.

Spread over 23 acres of lush greenery is a charming hill station, Meppady, in the unexplored Wayanad region of Kerala. Life at this premium plantation retreat, situated six kilometres from the Rippon Junction on the Wayanad-Ooty road, is incredibly unique. And Dr. Srikumar, a paediatric neurologist, could not find a better name for this natural extravaganza than ‘My Garden of Eden’.

Six years ago, it was a run-down plantation neglected by its owners. When Srikumar first visited the place, he felt that it would make a wonderful resort.

‘’For five years, we passionately worked to transform this property into a tropical paradise,’’ he says.

Night is an incredible experience here. The distant roar of the cascading waters of the Chaliyar river ally with the chorus of nocturnal insects. Sometimes, one experiences a little shiver when trumpeting elephants can be heard from the nearby woods. Gradually, everything becomes silent. And, unknowingly, you become part of nature’s tableau.
 

Wake up to the chirping of birds and open your eyes to the unobstructed view of the misty mountains. Walk around the cottage and feel the loveliness of the woods, looking like a silver line in the sunrise and watch the sparkling diamonds on the leaves, left by the sun rays, wet in the mist.

Amidst the woods, there lie seven independent luxury villas, all of them, overlooking the mountain range of the Western Ghats. The spacious verandahs offer a priceless panoramic view of the misty mountains as far as the eye can see.

Each cottage remains isolated amidst the verdant woods and has sloping red-tiled roofs. From every room, guests can have the best possible view of the surrounding landscape as well as enjoy their privacy.

For a regular workout, there is a badminton and basketball court, a swimming pool and facilities for cycling. Besides, one can practise yoga or enjoy reading, stretched out on a comfortable hammock in the nearby woods.

It’s an ideal spot for a romantic getaway, an amazing honeymoon, a writer’s haven, and a top choice for outdoor adventures in the wild.

(The New Indian Express, Sunday Magazine, June 2011)

Little Master of the Net

Krishna Narayan is popular on the web for his cricketing skills

Shot! Through the covers and... it’s a four.’’ Standing in a corner of the living room, a little boy is busy driving, flicking and punching with his Mongoose bat after tossing a tennis ball against the wall.

After every stroke, his commentary follows. At another time, he can be seen throwing the ball quickly against the wall and trying various modes of catching. He cannot live without cricket even for a minute inside his home.

Meet Krishna Narayan, a native of Vallikkunnu in Malappuram, and a Class II student of St. Paul’s School, Thenhipalam, perhaps the most illustrious seven-year-old Keralite on the web at present.

Playing every shot with natural ease, Krishna gives the impression that he was born to play this game, even though it is pretty early to make such predictions.

“This guy will break all the batting records,’’ said former West Indian captain Richie Richardson, in a written comment after seeing Krishna’s video on Youtube. Dav Whatmore and Anil Kumble too echoed the Windies maestro’s words. What’s more, Krishna is the only Indian cricketer who is sponsored by Mongoose Cricket Limited, London. Stanford Cricket Industries, Meerut, provides him custom-made playing equipment for free.

“All these are nothing but God’s grace,’’ says Rajesh Kumar, Krishna’s father who is a software programmer.

Nearly five years ago, Rajesh, an ardent devotee of Lord Krishna, bought a mini plastic bat for his child during a visit to Guruvayur Temple. The living room soon turned into a cricket pitch, with Krishna playing textbook strokes with a straight bat, and with style and elegance. In course of time, tennis ball and wooden bat replaced the plastic equipment. And one day, Rajesh shot his son batting, using his camcorder, when he was three-and-a-half years old.

 “Actually, my intention was to evaluate his batting,” says Rajesh. “But my nephew Jithin insisted that I upload it on Youtube. Though a bit reluctant, I agreed. And now I believe everything happened because of that.”

Soon, there came the first comment from the United States for the ‘young little cricketer’ video. Later, a personal message arrived from Rejith Rajendran, an official of the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) offering support. Later, Rejith introduced coach Biju George of the Sports Authority of India (SAI) to Rajesh.

“My acquaintance with Biju Sir has been one of the most happiest and luckiest moments in my life,’’ says Rajesh.

Having seen the video, which now has 4.18 lakh hits, the Ireland-based Lekka Sports asked Rajesh to submit his son’s bat size to Stanford Cricket Industries (SF), with whom they have a business arrangement. But the reply from SF was an apology saying that such mini-size equipment was not manufactured by them.

Rajesh sent the link of the video to the company. SF official Anil Sareen was so impressed by the batting display of Krishna that the company offered to sponsor custom-made equipment for the wunderkind.

Then came another surprise—a complete sponsorship deal from Mongoose Cricket Limited. However, Rajesh accepted the equipment sponsorship only from Mongoose. “At that time he was playing with a tennis ball. I could not predict whether he would continue playing with a cricket ball in future. Besides, I did not want to compel him,” Rajesh says. “For Krishna, the greatest achievement was the selection to the National Cricket Academy, Bangalore, for a camp in the under-12 category in February 2010. Unfortunately, the camp was postponed to a future date and later called off.”

Meanwhile, the little-master-in-the-making is looking prim, even without his incisors. Where have they gone? The answer is a cute smile. He hardly speaks, and scurries over to where he likes to be the most: the practice pitch.

He is extremely happy at getting a chance to play in the nets for the photographer. “I hardly get any practice these days because of the rain,” the boy complains, as his father helps him to wear the chest guard and thigh pad. In his white T-shirt and white pants, and wearing custom-made pads and a helmet, Krishna looks impressive.

At the nets, Krishna is unstoppable. He hits with enormous power: the ball moves like a rocket. The cover drive is his favourite, but no shot seems difficult. “Krishna,” Rajesh says after nearly half an hour. “It’s enough. Only three more balls for you.” But Krishna is not willing to stop. “Father, I just want to hit those stumps,” the boy says, pointing at the wicket placed at the short cover position for taking photographs.

And just to prove that it is no empty boast, the little master’s stunning drive, off the third ball, knocks down the stumps with a bang. A big win for this little champion, who longs to meet Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman and Anil Kumble.

(The New Indian Express, Sunday Magazine, July 2011)

Royal Mansions Go Back to the Future

Praveen Maranat and his wife, the host of the Maranat Mana

 Till recently teetering on the verge of decay, they are now being revived by their owners. We are talking about the palatial kovilakams and manas of Kerala. These mansions, which once symbolised Kerala’s aristocratic tradition, are but leftovers of a regal past ever since the state seized property from the feudal lords during the land reforms of the 1960s — without compensation. Gradually, residences of erstwhile landlords and wealthy Brahmins, which epitomised traditional architecture with ornate wooden interiors, slipped into oblivion.

Though many of those imposing structures were demolished, a few defied the test of time. Now, they are becoming a boon to the inheritors who are turning them into homestays, courtesy ‘experience’ tourism — a new trend in north Kerala’s Malabar region.

The imposing Nilambur Puthiya Kovilakam in hilly Malappuram, residence of the local Samoothiri (Zamorin) rulers of Kozhikode, and Maranat Mana, a traditional Namboothiri Illam (mansion) of Pandikkad (around 90 km from Kozhikode), are among them.While the latter has been in business over the last two years, the Nilambur Kovilakam Heritage Homestay will become operational by August this year.

Tourists can experience and understand the rich tradition of the Brahmins and Kshatriyas. They can get a feel of the architecture using rosewood and teak, take part in customs and practices, watch traditional art forms and have rejuvenating ayurvedic oil baths.They will have to abjure smoking and alocohol, and eat only vegetarian, though.

“Guests have to adhere to the centuries-old customs and traditions we follow,” says Praveen Maranat, who runs the Maranat Mana Heritage Homestay. “Nothing is arranged specifically for them. If they come during Onam, they can join us in harvesting paddy and other rituals, or help in cooking. The atmosphere is very informal. They are served the same food, cooked that day. Nothing extra, not even chilled water.’’

However, not everyone is allowed to stay. “It may sound strange, but we have to ensure they understand our way of life. I insist every tour operator visit the place before sending guests,’’ says Praveen, who put the conditions on Mana’s website and brochure.

According to Praveen, this is the best way to maintain such buildings and preser ve religious customs.“My family has imposed on me certain dos and don’ts. As long as I don’t break any, they will cooperate with me,’’ Praveen says.
 

Guests stay in the refurbished three-storeyed Patthaayappura (out-house) of the 160-year-old house. The only place where guests are not allowed is the Ganapathy temple. It is a stopover for tourists from Wayanad, Bengaluru, Guruvayur and Gudalloor. Last season, Praveen had mostly European and American guests for 52 days, through various tour operators like Blue Yonder, Incent Tours, Le passage and Southern Journey. “As a beginner, tour operators feel it’s a big success,’’ he says.

Puthiya Kovilakam, more than 300 years old, is one of the finest examples of Kerala’s architecture.

It is based on nalukettu (four complexes around a rectangular courtyard) style. It’s a panthrandukettu structure with four nadumuttams (courtyards). Apart from 18 large rooms, there are two halls which can host 200 people.

C K Ravi Varma and wife Sreemathy Varma are the only inmates of this huge building. “We intend to preserve this traditional cultural monument,’’ says Ravi Varma. The maintenance is very costly and requires many servants. Besides, there is no point in renovating a building without inmates. We need only a small portion for ourselves.

So we thought of developing four rooms as homestay.” Queries are coming from across the globe. “Many foreigners have asked whether they can conduct Kerala-style marriages in the building. Now, we are thinking of renting it out for such purposes.

But guests will be restricted to 40,’’ he adds.

(The New Indian Express, Sunday Magazine)

Wholesome Healing for Body and Soul

Harivihar

Dr. Srikumar and his wife Dr. Neetha, hosts of the Harivihar

The place is hushed, footfalls fall softly on the ancient, cool floor.

The rooms are cool and dark with windows framed in dark wood.

Those who come from far and wide, seeking ayurvedic cures for their maladies, find solace in Harivihar, once a kovilakam—a feudal house in which the royal mistresses of Kerala lived—situated in Calicut. The 160-yearold Harivihar is an example of a growing trend in Kerala—palaces disowned by impoverished or disinterested nobility being passed on to new owners who turn them into pricey ayurvedic centres, attracting foreign clients and wealthy Indians.

Harivihar, once the ancestral home of the Kadathanad royals, is now one of the leading Ayurveda, Panchakarma and Yoga centres in North Kerala. The mansion now belongs to the ayurvedic doctors, Srikumar and wife Neetha, whose grandfather had bought it from the family in the 1950s. Situated in Bilathikulam, Calicut, and built in the typical Malayalee architectural style, Harivihar Heritage Homestead offers authentic ayurvedic treatments and a unique experience of pristine living in a heritage homestead set among ancient trees and undulating, landscaped lawns.

The corridors flanked by aged teak pillars are shady and pleasant for the convalescent to stroll along; the large pond at the rear of the palace with dark, stone steps leading down is an ideal spot for reflection.

“We have been getting good response from people across the world. Every season, guests from Europe arrive through tour operators such as Thomas Cook, Kuoni and Le Passage,’’ says Srikumar.

Harivihar’s expert ayurvedic physicians suggest treatments like Shiro Dhara, Kizhi, Shirovasti, Pizhichil or Njavarakizhi according to each patient’s need. A complete package of medicine, food and culture is calculated to attract the seeker of exotica—yoga, discourses on the Vedas and Indian mythology as well as performances of traditional art forms like Kathakali.

The food at Harivihar is vegetarian; elaborate and cooked according to prescribed ayurvedic methods, abjuring strong spices, thus retaining the natural flavours of the ingredients. Guests are also treated to cooking demonstrations.

The royals of Rajasthan are known to have turned their palaces into thriving hotels. Those of Kerala seem to prefer the calmer nuances of ayurveda.

(The New Indian Express, Sunday Magazine)

A Policeman and A Poet

Premadas Iruvallur

Premadas Iruvallur has been a serving in the state police force for the last 17 years.

But, the rigours of his serious profession have not managed to keep the 43-year-old away from his passion for the written word.

The senior Civil Police Officer, working at the office of the Kozhikode City Police Commissioner, is all excited, and the reason is the film ‘Breaking News Live,’ in which Premadas makes his debut as a lyricist.

The Mollywood flick, starring Kavya Madhavan and Vineeth, is all set to hit the screens this month, and for Premadas, who has already won laurels as a painter and poet, this is another dream come true.

 “I always wished to write songs for films and be a part of mainstream cinema. Of course, I am really excited,” he gushes. The three songs penned by Premadas for ‘Breaking News Live’, the directorial debut of Sudhir Ambalappatu, have been set to music by Mohan Sithara.

Premadas’ love affair with the Malayalam language and literature began during his college days.

Even after joining the police force in 1995, he continued writing poems and sending these to vernacular newspapers and magazines for publishing.

“Several poems were published and this encouraged me a lot. I also found time to visit sets of TV serials and films, and showed my literary work to directors. Somehow, I was invited by serial director Baiju Devaraj to write the title song for the popular megaserial ‘Ente Manasaputhri’. That was my big break,” he said.

Later, he wrote songs for six telly shows and got several awards, including the Malayalam Television Viewers Association Award (MVTA).

 A recipient of the Chief Minister’s Police Medal, Premadas feels that writing poetry and painting ease the tension and stress of the job.

“Definitely, there is tension related to job and often its redundant. But, doing this kind of creative work has a refreshening effect on me. Every day morning, I practice the art by doing some drawings and writing something. People always wonder how a police man can find time for this work. But, if you have the will and lead a disciplined life, you can find enough time. More importantly, I am getting good support from higher officials, colleagues and my family,’’ he said. About future projects? Premadas hates to be in a hurry in this new track.

"I believe in doing quality work and am least concerned about the quantity. I have immense love for my mother tongue. For me, lyrical quality is important and would like to associate with such kind of projects,’’ he said.

Pedalling Towards a Brighter Tomorrow

A M Shinas arriving at the college on his bicycle

One Tuesday morning about four months ago, the campus of Government Arts and Science College in the city experienced a change. Neither the teachers nor the students could believe their eyes -- a venerable Assistant Professor was coming to the college riding a bicycle. While the scene evoked exhilaration on the campus, the teacher was in fact breaking down a social inhibition with his few minutes’ ride.

Meet A M Shinas, Assistant Professor of History at the college, hailing from Kottaram Road here, who has emerged as an advocate for the ‘Back to Bicycles’ movement in the city. Every working day, except on Mondays- when the traffic is heavy in the city- Shinas goes to the college on his bicycle. That is not all, for he ventures out on his preferred vehicle to the grocery store and even to visit relative in the city. And come what may, he never skips an hour of cycling on the picturesque Kozhikode beach, early in the morning.

“Since joining the college, I have been thinking of travelling on a bicycle. But, like everyone else, I was diffident, thinking it would be laughing matter for the students and my colleagues. However, I later realised that bicycles are making a silent but steady comeback across the globe. Finally, I decided to become a part of this change, which I certainly feel is for the better,” says the 40-year-old teacher.

Shinas feels that a return to bicycles would be inevitable for city folks within the next ten years. “At present, we are witnessing a four-wheeler hegemony in the city. But given the stagnation in road infrastructure development and the ever-growing number of vehicles, we will have to revert to the bicycle culture sooner or later. Besides, it is good for health and would help reduce pollution and traffic congestion. 40 per cent of the population in countries like the Netherlands and Sweden are using bicycles. Even in India, the trend is catching on in the big metros,” said Shinas, who has been in the teaching profession for seven years.

And how has the response been at his college? “While the students enthusiastically accepted the change, teachers appear indifferent. They say four-wheelers are more convenient. But I feel, it’s all about maintaining a certain status for most of them. A significant number of teachers and students are staying within a two to three radius of the college. Unlike other cities of the state, Kozhikode City mostly has an even terrain. Yet, they are reluctant to use cycles even once in a week,” he lamented.

Shinas, however, believes that with time, the change would be more pervasive and more people would start using bicycles.

For encouraging the trend, he suggests creation of bicycle- friendly stretches and bicycle tracks in the city. “It is high time that authorities take measures to encourage use of bicycles in the city, as that is where the hope of a pollution-free future lies,” he added.