Music, a game changer

Music is a game changer, do you believe so!!

It softens our body and keeps us at bay. Life without this rhythmic sound would not be so wonderful. 

I was first introduced to music through a small piano by my dad. It was during my early childhood and as an Indian, we always start with classical note, Saregama.... It is the soul of Indian music from which songs have been evolved from generation after generation.

Our India Films, however documentary it turns to be, a music is a must. From Songs to background chorus, Indian films without music is unimaginable. We even use lots of instruments, compare to anywhere in the world; flute being the oldest among them.

When I think of Music, I recall an incident which happened around 2009.This was when I was working for a reputed healthcare client. They are situated all around the world, but the client, which I had to  interact was from Budapest. We were working  individually to setup client request process which required lots of time and understanding. I used to stretch my work hours from 8 to 8 in order to complete the implementation process. There were also frequent changes which needed immediate attention. 

Seeing my stressful work & to ease myself, my co-client, from Budapest, sent me a music with a message. It read, "I am sending one of my favourite music which helps me calm myself on stressful days. Hope it helps you too."

It was very sweet gesture and of all the years, I have never met any client with such a good heart.

It was a simple music, mostly played while meditating called 'Buddha Bar VI - B-Tribe - Angelic Voices (Rebirth Remix)'. 

Here is its  youtube version

My second encounter was through the movie"Oh my God"

Have you all seen this remarkable movie, splendid isn't!!

It's an eye opener for people who doesn't know  to distinguish superstition and devotion.

The famous Flute music is one of my favourite. It's turned out to be my son's favourite song as well and he is just 10 months old. From the time he has started to recognize sound, I have been playing this tune. Now, whenever he hears it, he calms himself and has a smile in his face. Also the music has helped me a lot. Whenever I have a tough time handling my son, like crying, irritation or running around, I play this music. Just like a magnet which lures the iron, my son gets drawn to this music. 

It's a miracle music indeed. 

Here is the sample of my son's 1st favourite music-

   

Now coming back to my title,

A stressful day calm's down & a naughty boy gets captivated. It re vitals our mind and body and most of the wellness mantra has music as a medicine. 

So now tell me, Don't you think Music is a game changer!!

This blog post is inspired by the blogging marathon hosted on IndiBlogger for the launch of the #Fantastico Zica from Tata Motors. You can  apply for a test drive of the hatchback Zica today.

-Prathi

That Peppy Women

Twinkle khanna, daughter of Legendary Rakesh khanna & Dimple Kapadiya, wife of Action star Akhshay Kumar, mother of two; was a beautiful actress two decades ago. To be frank, I felt she was dull & boring. 

But, this perception took a U turn when I read Mrs funnybones.

Needs no introduction as she has been the creator behind Mrs funnybones. A funky peppy column in Sunday times with a remarkably good number of followers has now reached the bookshelf &, in no doubt, it is in my top 'must read' recommendation list of 2015.

Mrs funnybones, unlike her character's in movies, is peppy, hilarious & sporty. The book deals with just the normal chao's what an Indian women goes through; Handling diapers to Weight gain; Her mommy dear to Mummiji, Dominant 'man of the house' to Girl power which is expressed with brilliance and humour.

She addresses the inequality and highlights the girl power in a light hearted manner which can't be ignored.

An article on menstruations which goes for 2 pages makes us think," why do we hide our sanitary pad in secret places"

Her 'unzip' story tells the current fact of life, that people judge vulgarity by a woman and not by a man.

         The book is partial friction as Mrs funnybones is measurably more peppy compare to Twinkle, but the characters are familiar, her family. 'Man of the House' is dominant, Mummiji being possessive, Mommy dear more restless and the 'prodigal' son as she dictates. When we read the book, it's easier to depict as the characters are the celebrities from Bollywood.

My most funniest sections  -

1. Give a speech of inequality and come home only to hear from the man of the house - 'can you push that coffee table dear!!'
2. Ladies walking in the apartment staircase with a combination of Salwar & Sports Shoe; to impress celebrity hunk neighbour.
3. The Best one - In an aeroplane, when a baby poop's, a woman gets her perfume and sprays it inside the diaper.

While reading the book, don't miss the titbits present at the end of each chapter. It's really catchy and helpful too. You can read them even if you have not completed the entire book. PS : I seriously doubt, that there would be anyone who wouldn't finish the book, Blimey!!!

She chased the eye teaser with a coconut, has inherited a staff who thinks all big black mole guys are a villain and even has her own WhatsApp teaser which goes like 'Twinkle Twinkle, little star, I hope you get hit by a car!'

To end, she conveys, when we, a woman, have a family; & however great our professional life is, we always end up working for our dear great big family, as this roots us to be an "Indian".

I would like to correct my tittle " That peppy women who is so Indian"

PS- my tweet to Mrs funnybones.( excuse me for the improper image ).

@mrsfunnybones #ReadingTime #mrsfunnybones really hilarious.. esp this one ... pic.twitter.com/LvOEfek3I0

— Prathi (@Prathi_T) December 6, 2015

This blog post is inspired by the blogging marathon hosted on IndiBlogger for the launch of the #Fantastico Zica from Tata Motors. You can  apply for a test drive of the hatchback Zica today.


 - Prathi

Not with his eyes but with his vision

Mr Srikanth Bolla, a 23 year old entrepreneur, CEO and owner of a 50crore company with 4 production plants branched out in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh is born blind.

 

What was his drive!!

"Where's there a will, there is a way"

 

Srikanth Bolla ( Source - INK Talks)

 

Born to a poor agricultural family, Mr Srikanth, in Hyderabad had a tough life from the day he was born.

 

As a baby, his parents were advised to drop his blind boy to ditch. "He is a mere nuisance" was some of their suggestions. Only due to their continuous love and affection was he able to cross that innocent life.

 

His father realised that as a blind boy, he is not much help to him in his field. He took him to a school situated few miles away for 2 years. He walked these miles and sat in the last bench with no friends. Discouragement, Humiliation & Loneliness were the only thing he learnt and felt that his life is just a failure. When his father realised this, he decided Srikanth needed a special school.

 

There, Srikanth received the right amount of nourishment and raised himself with compassion and commitment. He completed his X by scoring 90+%,  but the struggle continued. When he went for college admission, he was told 'Science' was not for disabled students. You can opt for 'Arts' instead was their conclusion. He fought with them, with admission department, with government & even went to court. And after several hardships, he was permitted for Science department, but with a clause; 'on your own risk'.

 

With the help of his mentor and computing world, he was able to score 98% in his XII but again denied entry in IIT, BITs..

 

He did not go for similar struggle again, instead smartly applied to schools in the US. He went to MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology with a scholarship) as the first international blind student in the school’s history.

 

His struggle was even more tougher, but he survived. After he completed his Bachelor's he decided that he need to come back to help others who are like him.

 

With the help of his mentor, Swarnalatha he started an educational ground; schools and colleges for disabled. He became a mentor for many. When he questioned himself whether education is enough, what about employment? He answered it by building Bollant.

 

Mr Srikanth Bolla's Bollant Industries,  an organisation that employs  disabled ( about 70%) and uneducated employees to manufacture Eco-friendly, disposable consumer packaging solutions, is a set aside example and inspirational for all.

 

Mr Srikanth's challenging life makes us question on humanity, gives new meaning for struggle and also inspires us that with utmost dedication anything can be achieved.

 

I aide goodbye, leaving you behind with 3 important lessons which Mr Srikanth has adhered from his life

“Show compassion and make people rich. Include people in your life and remove loneliness, and lastly, do something good; it will come back to you.”

Source - Youth Ki Awaaz

This blog post is written as a part of  a contest held by Indiblogger & Youth Ki Awaaz on #SpreadTheVibe, positive story that has inspired you in 2015

To get more details on this forum , please visit their website.
http://www.youthkiawaaz.com/

- Prathi

Kesari Bath (Sugar free)

It's Sunday and it's time for something unique.  #FoodBlog,

Everyone likes to eat Desert but nowadays we are too scared to try as we are health conscious. So here is a common 'South Indian desert' which I tried today, with a twist, i.e. using Sugar free 


Kesari Bath with Sugar Free


Ingredients:
Rava - 1/2 cup

Sugar Free Natura - 1/4th cup ( Used 10 - 12 sachets)
Kesari - 2 strands
Turmeric powder - 1tsp
Ghee - 2 - 3 tbsp
Raisins - 4 -5 
Water ( Make sure water is boiling, while adding it to the mixture)- 1 cup


Preperation:

1. Heat 1 tsp of Ghee in a Kadai.
2. Add Rava and mix it together with the ghee. 
3. Wait for Rava to turn dark yellow in color. You will get a pleasant aroma of Rava. Now add Water as mentioned.
4. Mix Rava well, such that there is no lump formation.
5. Let Rava be cooked for a few minutes.
6. Add Sugar free Natura, Kesari & Turmeric Powder.
7. Mix it well
8. Once Sugar gets dissolved, add remaining Ghee and mix it thoroughly 
9. Remove Kadai from the Burner and Decorate it with Raisins
10. Serve Hot

**The above dish has served for 4

The dish was tasty and good as the original in spite of the substitute. 

Want to know more about Sugar Free , Look here http://sugarfree-india.com/

- Prathi

Grandma #madeofgreat

Decades ago (1940's), she rode with her brother letting an unapproved father behind, around 12 miles far away from her home. She wanted to complete her education and enter the world of teaching. She used to brief out that her parents were not so willing but she never gave up.

This is a short abstract of someone who is undeniably #madeofgreat for me, 'My Grandma'.

Ever since I know her, she is a multitasking lady; stands like a wall for all obstructions. Her mode of speech brings warmness to anyone who listens to her. She is open like a book and yet so secretive. Sometimes, when I think of her influence in my life, It brings her residue into me. My mom takes up few situations a bit more serious than required, but she was calm, composed yet firm. This behavior, I always try to follow, few at times I succeed, but mostly I fail but still I never gave up

Work life balance - 

"Working as a school teacher till retirement, mom of 7 and a great cook" is what describes her. Her dishes are the best in the world and if you ever had a chance to taste it, you would definitely say it is the best South Indian food ever tasted. When we asked her, 'how do you do such simple rasam so tasty?', she used to say that 'measurement is the key'. Been working and handling household has taught her that being organised is time-saving. 

Being a mom has not killed her career. She is even now remembered as the best teacher of her times and all her stories and riddles are resided by each and every student of hers whenever they meet. When they visited her, they used to tell about her greatness and how she used to handle their tiny fights with patience. 

Grandma has always been a proud teacher which has reflected in her life even after her retirement. This has taught me that when we are satisfied with individual accomplishment, it brings us peace within; which reflects on our social life.

Catastrophic : 

At the age of 45, Grandma lost Grandpa. All the financial and social activity was handled by Grandpa. At 1970, It should have been devastating as she was not much aware about banking, shopping and all other social problems. Only because of her self confidence and 'never give up' nature, was she able to handle and take care. 

During Grandpa's death, my uncle had married against our religion and this had caused lots of humiliation around her neighborhood. Being a single parent, she handled the circumstances very well; with an open mind, welcomed her and greeted aunt as her own daughter. 

Can you get a woman who can be so human when the whole world; still says 'religion is greater than humanity'??

Physical Appearance :

She is not the prettiest of the lot & she is partially handicapped, with one leg bitten by a snake during her childhood. Even when I was rejected at marriage proposals due to height, she assured & said; 'Don't give up. People who evaluate you by your physical appearance are not worth marrying'

On 31st May 2015, She had her last breath. She was not well from past 4 years and was bed rest for a year. Even while in such condition, she used to smile at the guest who visited her & welcomed everyone. 

I miss her guidance. I miss her patience. I miss her. Wholly I miss a great lady & even more a great soul who is a representation of being an empowerment for the new generation.

This is an inspirational story made it available for the tag #madeforgreat. It's a campaign by Tatamotors. You can get more details on the campaign here - http://madeofgreat.tatamotors.com/

Along with the campaign, there is also a contest for readers. 

Answer this simple question to win Amazon vouchers

'What do you think of Tata Motors' association with Lionel Messi?' 

Until next time, Cya 

Prathi

Dry Baby Happy Baby

Radhika was shopping in a Mall when she saw her best friend, Namratha. 

Radhika : hey Namratha, how are you?

Namratha: Hii Radhika. Long time. I am fine. How about you?  how is Anjali, your daughter. how old she is now?

Radhika: She is fine. She is nearing 2 now. what about your son. I think he would be completing 1 year soon. Is he as naughty as Anjali (winking)

Namratha: Yes Radhika, Amog is becoming naughty day by day. But there is something about him which I wanted to talk. Hey, are you free now? Can we go somewhere and have a chat?

Radhika: Yeah, sure, why not!. I just saw a coffee shop outside. Lets go there. We can have some snacks if you don't mind. All this shopping is making me hungry.

Namratha: I don't mind. Yes, this shopping has made me hungry too. Lets have that famous Pav Bajji which they serve!

At the coffee shop,

Radhika: So now when we have ordered our Pav Bajji, tell me Namratha what do you need from me? What is about Amog which is  worrying you?

Namratha:  Radhika, I don't know where to start. Amog is always crying. I can't find out what's wrong with him. It's usually during the morning hours, just after he wakes up. It's annoying & hurtful to watch him cry. I think he has started to get rashes.

Radhika: Oh gosh! Aren't you using Pampers dry pants? These are amazing diapers, especially during nights. They have dryness control gel lock system which avoids accumulation of moisture & hence reduces rashes. I assure you Namratha, this will reduce the crying. Also, as he is now above 6 months old, start feeding him with healthy food. This will make him more energetic & you can see the difference.


I remember with Anjali too, I had a similar issue. Its those difficult times where it is hard to decide from where to start. Anyways, when Anjali was 4 months old, I had to come to Bangalore to stay with my husband. I had to manage myself without any support or help. From the day I had come to Bangalore, Anjali became more silent. She used to enjoy 'Gagam style' songs & dance to that tune. But after she came to Bangalore, she started crying even when she heard the song. First, I thought that she missed my parents. But when my parents came during our holidays, her crying never stopped. My Parents got their pet dog 'Rocky' with them. She just loves him. But there was no reaction. And one morning I noticed it was the rashes which was creating this behavior. Then my doctor advised Pamper dry pants. It was amazing and I could feel the difference in a day or two. She started interacting and murmuring a lot. She even started interacting with our neighbor's kids. Even when she started crawling, I could see her eagerness on wanting to come to the kitchen where I am and wanting to do things as I do. 

Also Namratha, do check on Amog's eating habit. Make his tummy full. Few times kids act weirdly when hungry. They become restless due to it. Anjali used to throw stuff when she was hungry and it was a signal for us.

But once they are happy you can really see their fun activity & it can be sometime really funny.

I can reside you once such incident. My husband reads newspaper with his reading glasses on. He drinks his morning Tea with his paper. My daughter took her bangles; put it on her face as if wearing reading glasses, ordered me to get a cup of Tea (murmuring of course) and started reading the paper. She was not talking then & hence she started murmuring as if reading aloud from the paper.  Myself & my husband had a great laugh. When our kids are happy it's the precious time in our life. Isn't it?

Namirtha: So true Radhika.  I think I need to take your suggestion on the diapers. It might be the rashes which are making him cry. Because once I change the diaper he is fully active. He loves cricket & cars. He keeps playing with them if he is happy. But if he is crying, he throws it around. I surely will try your advice on using Pampers. Oh, what say, I will buy from that baby shop we just saw on the way.

Radhika : Sounds great. Do let me know the results.

Both Namratha & Radhika left the mall after few hours.

After a month, Both of them had planned to meet at the same coffee shop. Now Namratha was all happy

Namratha: Radhika!! Seriously, thanks for the advice. You were so true. It was the diapers, which were creating this restlessness. Now I can see Amog playing with his toys; murmuring with his dad and having a great time. He has started playing with water in the bathroom, which is a headache for me, but seeing him happy splashing all the water makes my heart bliss.

I think I soon will have  lots of happy fun stories to reside.

Radhika: Yes Namratha. You sure will.

This  blog post is written as a part of  a campaign held from Pampers (http://www.rewardme.in/tag/Pampers.) 

Look up blissfully

Mrs. Anita Rao has been working in our software company for past 15 years. Currently, she is heading the Retail department as 'Account Manager' in Bangalore location.

As aware, the retail sector is now catching up, utilizing IT division, to make their world much more comfortable & reachable. This results in more projects to fly in & hence more work for us.

As and when new projects or new development activity arise, Anita has to travel from one location to another. Travelling increases based on the assignments & sometimes she has to fly from India to London and then to US quenching her personal life.

Anita's husband, Mr. Alok Rao also has a similar work schedule. This results in them having a very hard time catching up on their son's life, Aniket. 

This was during a program, we came to know about Anita & her family;  how she has managed to stay optimistic despite her tough work culture.

"So how do you manage & stay energetic. Aren't you working for your family?" is what we asked

"My Son's smile makes it all happen. I, along with my husband has teamed up to manage this by impressing him despite being far away due to the work."

"Work culture now has become pathetic. There had been times when I was a kid, where I spent most of my time with my mother in the kitchen, chit chatting about nonproductive information, but now when I am a parent myself, I don't even have time to scroll into my own kitchen. Even if I am at heart of Bangalore, reaching home on time is a challenge in itself. Few a time, when I reached home my son would be sleeping and wakes up only to see me gone. My heart sinks when I think about it. "

"There has been times when I taught that I would quit my job and be at home to take care of the house. But due to  financial situations I was made to think twice." Also, she adds up saying "I enjoy my work, meeting up new people and my promptness & dedication has made me popular enough, such that even  if I want to quit it would be difficult."

"One of the tactics to Stay positive is to indulge yourself to be actively participating in our interest rather than worrying about difficulties." is her motto

So to enjoy the joyfulness of both the world, both of them has made arrangement for their son so that he doesn't complain. Due to their busy schedule, they have asked Anita's mother & father to stay with them to look after Aniket during their absence. Whenever she is in Bangalore on Sunday's, it is always 'family time'. No work can peep in. At home, her parents and son make her comfortable,  understands her and makes her feel that she has not missed any days.

To the times when they are not in town, both parents have promised their son; whatever is the situation & whichever location they are, both of them will be there beside their son if there is any event. Be it Diwali or son's birthday, no matter where they are, they will be in Bangalore for that event.

We asked "didn't you had any tough time to fulfill this?"

She says "Of course, I had and I can narrate you an incident."

She was in London and after two days It was their son's 7th birthday. Her husband too was out of station, but was bound to arrive on birthday with no issues. But for her it was a challenge. Her flight was at 9 clock and her meeting, which started at 5 clock in the evening was in no mood to end. She was panicking that she might miss her flight and break the promise. She says more than the promise, my son's smiling face, which gets lifted when he sees both his parents, is priceless & sure enough is a moment not to lose. So she called up her colleague and informed about the problem. Being in a managerial position, people have good contacts with the transportation department. Immediately, 9 clock flight was cancelled and 11 clock flight was arranged such that Anita could reach on her son's birthday on time.

She says as she ends her note that there has several such times where she has to jumble up, but at the end, it's her son's happy face is what makes her eager to reach.

Anita is one of the top executive in my company. Aniket, Mr & Mrs Rao only son is of age 13 now. Despite having such a hassle life, they have managed to build their own house in  Indranagar, Bangalore & a good education to their son which she is proud of.

She told this story which really inspired me and have remained as one of my favorites. As Anita's  inspiration is her son, everyone should search for that positive vibe which will help us to drive ahead of the rough edges of life. 

To end,  I really liked her story as, despite her hassle, she stands optimistic for those Sundays where she feels loved and cared.

This  blog post is written as a part of  a campaign held from Housing.com (https://housing.com/lookup) on topic " Tel us a story around a moment that filled you with optimism and hope for the future" 

-Prathi

Being Self-sustain

Dr Anjali, one of the top most doctors of Mumbai were on the dais along with her other fellow top doctors of the city. They had gathered around to collect a memento from the Chief Minster for saving 1000's of life from the cyclone which had made a catastrophic effect on Maharashtra few weeks back.

Despite being a hero herself, Anjali did not look very happy. Instead, she was searching for some familiar face in the crowd below. She looked disappointed. But suddenly something caught her eye, which made her smile.

At the end of the hall, she noticed a lady hiding herself behind a pillar; trying to get a glance of the stage set up. Anjali was about to call her assistance,when her name was called out to make a speech.

The Speech -

The day when the cyclone struck many people asked me, 'why are you leaving a safe hospital and going to that relief camp to save people?'.

Aren't you scared? Why risk life for others?

During the time I was in relief camp many of the survivors who needed medical treatment were shouting, saying "Please don't save me. My husband is no more or my children is no more. I don't need to live", Many became handicapped and didn't want to lead a life. A disaster doesn't only take life but, it can make few lives more difficult to lead. This is where we as a public servant need to build confidence; & serve our duty is what I believe.

You would ask me, it's easy to be a hero.

No...I know the pain as I lost my family in a cyclone, but more than that I know what is the mindset of people who has survived. I am the best example.

In 1998, when Mumbai was charged by the cyclone, we lost our family & wealth. My mom was the only one to take care. I was in my 12th then.My dad had a dream, he wanted me to be a doctor from day one of my birth. But due to disaster, I lost my way. I failed in my board exam. Unable to fulfill my dream & not able to cope up with the situation, I wanted to commit suicide. Unless it was not my mom, I would not be standing here. 

She took me to a nearby garden. There was a dog which stood with only 3 legs. It had broken its leg in a cyclone. It was trying to chase its tail in-spite of becoming handicapped. 

My Mom said, "Don't depict life as If God has taken away one leg from that dog's life. Watch life as God has kept 3 legs to enjoy" "It can now only hop and will have difficulty to walk, but it's purpose is to survive and it can do so with 4 or 3 legs. So why worry about the lost when it can't be returned!"

Ever since then, we have faced a lot of challenges in life, but never gave up & never allowed anyone else to give up. And, I am not here to boost about it too.

I just want to convey to the survivors who have lost hope, who have lost interest; please don't be so.  There are only few who gets a second chance, please don't crave yourself. There will be a silver lining which will make you charge up and make you self-confident. Wait for it.

Anjali called her assistance and murmured something on his ear & then she continued.

Myself Dr Anjali, probably known as a top surgeon in town. But many don't know that I am Kammini Devi's Daughter. Kammini Devi, a  servant at the age of 35 due to our circumstance had to wash dishes, clothes & cleaned houses in many middle class houses in Thane. She is my  guider. She has made me a self sustained person as I am now.

I would like to give this memento to her

& she pointed at that pillar.

Kammini Devi was the lady who was standing near the pillar and was brought by Anjali's assistance to the dais.

Both Anjali & Kammini Devi received a grand applause from the audience.

The End

This Blog is written as a part of a Happy Hours campaign held by Indiblogger & HDFC ( http://www.hdfclife.com/) on topic " how a family member has guided and encouraged you to grow into a better, more self-reliant person"

Quikr for Car

---Short Story---

Ranganath Swamy was a businessman and spend most of his time travelling. In-spite of his family being in Bangalore, he toured from Tumkur to Hassan, Bijapur to Mangalore, Hyderbad to Chennai for his business to grow. He started his business on Clothes in Jan 2000 & it has been no turning back from then.

Now, as he was about to set for another business trip, he realized that his age old Maruti 800 is not matching his status. Instead, he needed a car which is better, much more flexible & also affordable. He thought, 'Running his own business is not an easy task, as there can arise financial crunch at any moment. He can't afford a new car just to declare his status. But he needed a best used car and that too quickly'.

Looking at worried face of his father, Rajiv; Swamy's son, started questioning. On knowing father's dilemma on how to go ahead, Rajiv suggested, our own Quickr.com

Ranganath was furious, "Come one, Online. No way, It's just a headache".
Rajiv replied, "Dad , just give me 10 minutes of your time. If this 10 minute is not fruitful, then you can go ahead and decide on your own".
Ranganath agreed.
Rajiv started opening up his laptop.

Ranganath said, "Let's go for the SUV. I can go for a budget  of 10 Lakh max. But I have heard stories of online nuisance from my friend that he used to get multiple calls from the dealer when they come to know about it. And, that too from Delhi, Mumbai. Isn't it a problem on this site? Also, we don't have any idea on how much the cost of a second hand car should be! I feel I  need to make some calls to my old friends"

Rajiv quickly replied, "Dad everything can be taken care. Don't worry"

He entered 'http://www.quikr.com/' on Chrome. Immediately , sub-window with 'which location you prefer' window opened. He clicked as 'Bangalore'. 

Rajiv started explaining.

"Now you will get calls only from Bangalore dealers & individuals. Even you can view Ads only from Bangalore"

"First let's post an Ad so that even seller's can communicate with us."

He clicked on Post Free Ad. Rajiv started filling all the required details for a SUV car.

"Check out Dad, this a useful feature added by Quickr called MSP - 'Maximum Selling Price'. Here it calculates and let us know what can be the Maximum Price of  a product. It's especially used for Second hand products. This will solve our problem. You don't have to worry about calling your friends now & asking for car rates."

"Quikr has also launched Quikr Chat feature. Here in this Field "Maintain my Privacy (Buyers will first contact you via Quikr Chat, you can decide when to reveal your phone number to them)", will maintain your privacy so you don't get calls from unnecessary dealers or sellers. Once you chat with them and if you want to meet that particular vendor, only then you can share your number & that too privately."

Rajiv continued, "As you have a smartphone, once we register, we will immediately download Quikr mobile app's, so that you don't have to open laptop daily. You can chat with the vendor's in mobile app. You can also see how many has viewed your Ad & also make your Ad premium by giving credits. This can give your Ad more advantage."

Rajiv Posted the Ad. It took only 2-3 minutes & Ranganath was already impressed.

Rajiv also showed Ads of sellers. He showed the different features like  'Premium ads', Ads whose numbers are verified, and chat now option if the dealer or seller are available. Also, to know whether the rate which seller has quoted is correct, Rajiv advised to use MSP to compare and then to go ahead. 

Rajiv advised his father, "Prefer Recent Posts & Post with Photo's for better & safe bargain"

Rajiv 10 minutes really changed Ranganath & made him decide to give a try. 

--A Month Later--

When Rajiv returned from college, he saw an XUV standing in-front of his house. It was in a very good shape & not in a distance was it looking like any used car.

Seeing Rajiv's expression, Ranganth replied, "Thanks to your 10 minute, I was able to get this fantastic XUV."

Rajiv said, "Don't thank me, Dad. Thank Quikr"


This Blog is written as a part of a Happy Hours campaign held by Indiblogger & Quikr on topic "If you were to replace your existing car with something better, how would do so using Quikr NXT  ?  "

For more details refer  http://www.quikr.com/  

For a day-to-day Quite Sleep

Hello Tanya, 

Congrats for the Baby Girl. Heard from Rajiv that you wanted to know some details on how to make your princes go to sleep. I can understand, as I too had faced this challenge in-spite of  being a doctor myself. Ria was very arrogant when it was about sleep. At times, it can be dreadful. Even many of my patients asked me for Tips. Recently I wrote my experience in a form of an article in a leading magazine and would like to share it with you. 

In a sentence, if you want me to convey then it is that, 'always follow a routine before going to bed & use Diapers for soundless sleep'.

PS: In my below article, I have pen down my experience with Ria too, just for fun. Read one, hope it helps. 

Take care
Vibha ( Pediatrician )

For a day-to-day Quite Sleep 

by Vibha

Welcoming the world by giving a birth is an amazing feeling. For 9 months you have preserved the precious in your tummy and when able to see it in front of you creates goosebumps all over your body. 

But this newborn is very delicate & innocent. At-least for first one year of its wonderful life in this world, we as a parent, should ensure we take good care & make its day & night pleasant; with less cry & more happy. This can ensure that when he/she grows up, it has an energetic and positive attitude towards life.

 Nap time is very important during the primary years. If due to any circumstance babies are disturbed during their sleep it can be a devastating result. Scientists say that if we follow a routine during bedtime, baby sleeping disorders can be avoided.

What are the routines we should follow?

Preliminary set ups:

1. Baby should be made to go to bed when it is feeling sleepy and not when it is fast asleep. It would be difficult for us to identify the sleepy behavior of our baby, at the beginning. But with constant watch out, we can identify some behavior like rubbing the eyes, constant yawning which conveys that 'Please let me sleep'. It's better to take these orders.

" When Ria was born, lots of relatives visited to see her. On greeting our guests, we usually neglect sleepy behaviors of her. Later, it would be a nightmare for me & Rajath. So always keep a track of it and obey those signs :)"


2.Few a times, Baby sleeps at day & not at night. Making an awareness, that night time is for sleeping and day is for fun is a must for parents, otherwise we would have to stay awake during nights.

Make your baby sleep in a calm & quite place at night & well lighted place during the day.  Don't rush to turn off phones or television or neighbor aunties noise at day. Ensure such precautions only if it didn't have a soundless sleep at night. This makes the baby know that day time is no nap time.

"I had her room filled with stars & moons which you get in the market.It will shine brightly when lights are turned off. Ria used to sleep quickly by gazing at it. You can also arrange for some playtime mats for the day part so that it is active throughout the day" 

3.We should also ensure that we are not constantly talking or show active signs when baby are sleepy. This can turn them on and make them think that it is not the time to sleep, even if it is.

"Once I was super active to see her after I was back from 2 day official trip. That excitement led to her being awake the whole time. I was really exhausted as I had done lots of travelling and wanted to spend only an hour or so. But my smile, chattering and eye contact led to her staying awake for almost 4-5 hrs. So be careful during nap hours"

Bedtime practice:

1.Swing/Cradle: Utilization of swings or cradles for baby to sleep is common in India. It sets up a drowsy feeling and makes your sweet one to sleep easily. During summer, swing can also help them to get that extra wind or air, which makes them cool & have a good warm rest.

As there is pros so is the cons that, after few months, when our baby is all grown up, it can be difficult for them to escape from this routine. Hence, during the mid of 3-4 month, it's better to make them sleep in the cradle without swinging and gently pat him/her to sleep. You can also shift them to bed/crib once they are fast asleep, to experience sleeping in beds. 

"2nd Paragraph solely explains my difficult times where I used to juggle it out, making Ria sleep in Bed/Crib rather than Cradle"

2.Singing Lullaby/Story telling: These are age old technique, where we sing in a melodious song for the newborn, so it gets used to mom's voice & also the melody can make it drowsy & sleepy. Now a days there are some music CD's available which can make the room, sleepy and avoid your singing, if you feel your voice is not appealing.

"I used baby rhymes , my voice is pathetic. You get them in online portal easily. And when it came to stories, my father used to narrate Mahabharata, Ramayana & Akbar & Birbal stories."

You can also make the room, night friendly by adding a dim lamp in green/blue color, which creates a sleepy mood. Telling stories can make them sleepy too, but be aware; If the story is more interesting than the sleep, this can turn them on.

Altogether both stories & singing can create dreams which can help them to have a soundless sleep.

3.Use Diapers: Pee & Potty is a horror for parents. Keeping a track of it, is a must otherwise it can result in rashes & other skin problems. Also, its presence can make your little one uncomfortable. At night this is challenging as its rest time for both you and baby. Nappies or Diapers are a must during these times. Make sure you have clean diapers worn before your baby goes to sleep.

Cloth diapers are hugely recommended during the first 3 months of baby's life. But this can be tedious as we need to remove it as and when it gets wet. This might also wake the babies. And, if you are a working woman, this can add as a extra load on you. To avoid these circumstances, diapers are available starting from the age of zero. Old diapers used to create rashes very quickly. But nowadays we have 24 hrs protective dryness control diapers in the market from Pampers which can help us get through. Basically, using these protective diapers, can help the baby irradiate that irritation & also the rashes. Hence it results in plenty of good sleep to your baby & you too. 

" Use Pampers Active baby diapers - While other diapers only focus on keeping dry on the outside, the new Pampers Baby Dry Pants promises dryness on the inside too. It is also recommended by many doctors and Pediatricians. It is also easy to make them wear. Ria used to love to wear it, as it was comfortable. "

Baby is all happy & active after that complete rest & as a parent, this is what you would love to see; "A glowing happy face of the sweet little one". Hence always have a bedtime routine & follow it.

Active Baby, Active You

This Blog is written as a part of a Happy Hours campaign held by Indiblogger & Pampers (https://www.rewardme.in/tag/Pampers) on topic " Fun bedtime rituals you share with your little one, and how they help give your baby a good night’s rest."

*Image source is from the campaign page itself.

A Valentine to pamper yourself

It's February, a month which spreads love in the world. Everyone would be aspiring to find their love mate to spend this beautiful time with lots of gifts.

But to singles & broken heart's life can be miserable. With shops, lift with love, hearts & cards; streets filled with couples hand, walking beside would be painful.

But if you are single/ want to spend some time all alone, then what is 'Valentine' for you?

Who is your ideal Valentine?

Who will give you Valentine gift!!

Or have you ever gifted yourself during Valentine!!!  ..Ever thought that??

If you are down this year or just want to pamper yourself, ASUS Zenfone is the right Valentine for you. It symbolizes independent love. Of course it is a virtual valentine but is defined to be ideal. With such a mesmerizing appeal, you will not be unnoticed & also as you are coupled with it, it can irradiate your loneliness.

I would give you only 5 Reasons why would it be your perfect valentine for this year

1.An ideal valentine is, who gel along with you. With attractive Zen cases & Zen Accessories, Zenfone can never let you down. These accessories or cases can be changed as we desire & hence defines us & also as per our wish. Despite being so attractive, it is also protective. In situations where we are vulnerable, these protective covers can help us out. To add to its advantage list, it is easy to fit. Isn't that a match made in heaven!!!

2.Few a times we expect from our dear ones, but he/she never gets delivered. Is that a situation in reality!! Might be yes, but this is virtual or ideal scenario. Hence, with a capacity of handling multiple tasks with high performance, there can be no complaints with this virtual valentine. Its Intel processor can aid you in browsing along with gaming with a long lasting battery backup; dictating us that it will be always around when in need.

3.When we are down, we need something to cheer us up. Zenfone with its high quality lens produces the quality photo which can bring in your memories to alive. Also, when we travel around, it can help you capture those incredible moments which can be cherished in future. Even in case of low light , the photos captured are fine and intense. Amazing features to be truly appreciated!

4. To get a Valentine so stylish & attractive and also to maintain ;-) ; I think you would need to spend a lot of time, effort and money too. But here is an ideal valentine, a phone available starting @ just Rs 5299. And, is available at online portal making it so affordable & easy to reach.

5.Does your Valentine take you to Singapore this 2015? Might be yes for a few but sure no for all. Here is a chance to fly to Singapore with your new ASUS Zenfone. A perfect get away during this lovable month & perfect gift for you on this occasion.

Embedded an video on ASUS Zenfone which details out what I said... Watch it & get pampered...

Isn't it a fantastic way to promote..




So what are you waiting for, Go on, grab your own http://www.flipkart.com/asus and celebrate this Valentine with it...

Chat without Fikar in Quikr NXT!

Of all the gadget & technology, mobile is the well versed & well utilized device after computers. In India, it has been in huge demand, indicating that even a person who doesn't have a residence to live would have a mobile fixed to his chests. Decades ago, when mobile were introduced, a new feature came along with it, i.e. messaging service, what we call SMS. Over the time, thanks to new technology & internet, the message has upgraded to what we now call as  "chatting" or "messenger" services. With internet being available all over the place, it has gained confidence & popularity.

Recently even Quikr, the popular online portal network, introduced itself by means of this chat functionality into the market. They call it as 'Quikr NXT'. As explained, it uses the chat mechanism to gain trust, popularity & easiness to their customer.

Source : Refer below

If you are/were a customer to Quikr ( be it a buyer/seller), you would question me, "why a chat network is better than a phone call?"

In any online portal, the customer relationship is the top most priority. In Quikr, it is both the seller & the buyer engagement which matters the most. If in any case this is hampered, trust disappears, not only within seller & buyer but with Quikr too.

 A common problem what both buyer & seller phase is 'Conveying the details of the product they sell or buy'. The buyer would love to hear more about the product before he gets the confidence & Seller would love to get more satisfaction that his product is going to the right owner. 

Through chat this can be accomplished better compared to the phone call system. I would love to explain in 3 simple reasons being,

1. Seller Dilemma- A seller would love to see more response as and when his product goes online. He will also expect immediate response. Due to which, there will be more number of calls & sms, within his normal activity. Most of the calls he received might not be useful. Few a time I have heard people getting frustrated due to this. This is avoided using the chat system, as they avoid disclosure of phone number even when we are connected with the buyer. It can also help the seller, find a genuine buyer. If he has missed any details, he can immediately update it as and when a buyer highlights it. And as we reply when online, the issue of being  in phone call 'always' is avoided.
2. Buyer Satisfaction- A buyer gets satisfied only when they get sufficient details of the product especially when shopping  online. Details provided in portal never satisfies. This can be an achieved through chat as it avoids making 100's of call just for one product.  For example, if a buyer is not satisfied with photo, through chat, he can demand and get it instantly. Chat can also sustain buyer confusion more quickly compare to phone calls as he is aware that the communication to the seller has reached & he has a proof for future complains if any. 
3. Increase in Seller & Buyer -This Chat system can bring in many more customers, as there is privacy even when we are public. This in-turn,  increases the chance of getting the products sell/buy ASAP. Hence, for a seller it can add an advantage were his product is visible for many buyers and for buyer, he  would gain instant trust. Also Quikr NXT is available in mobile & desktop, hence is a portable mechanism where Quikr customer can communicate instantly when he is online. This adds up in increasing the customer.

Hope this new feature, Quikr NXT offers more trust, popularity & easiness compared to the call system and delivers "No Fikar, as we can Chat Quikr"

Source : Refer below

This Blog is written as a part of a Happy Hours campaign held by Indiblogger & Quikr on topic "3 reasons why you would prefer chat over a phone call in quikr.com "

For more details refer  http://www.quikr.com/

**All image source is from the contest page i.e Quikr