Foot Prints of my Life

Introduction India’s landscape is incredibly diverse and rich. From the towering Himalayas in the north to the serene backwaters of Kerala in the south, the country offers a vivid mix of mountains, rivers, forests, and deserts.  Seven Countries India shares its borders with seven countries , each with unique geographical and cultural ties. Here's a brief overview: Pakistan – Located to the northwest, India shares a long border with Pakistan, especially in Jammu & Kashmir. The two nations have deep cultural links. China – To the north and northeast, India shares a mountainous border with China, mostly along the Himalayas. The border is shared in several areas, including Aksai Chin and Arunachal Pradesh. Nepal – A landlocked country to the north of India, Nepal shares an open border with free movement of people. It has deep cultural, religious, and historical ties with India. Bhutan – Also to the north, Bhutan shares a peaceful border with India. India plays a signi...

Quilling, also known as paper filigree, is an art form that involves rolling, shaping, and gluing thin strips of paper to create decorative designs. These designs can range from simple shapes to intricate works of art used in greeting cards, wall decor, jewelry, and more.  What is Quilling? In quilling, paper strips are rolled into coils and then pinched into shapes such as teardrops, marquises, or scrolls. These shapes are then arranged to form decorative patterns. Advantages of Quilling  Enhances Relaxation and Mindfulness - Quilling is repetitive and meditative, which can reduce stress and promote mindfulness. Boosts Creativity - Allows for endless creative expression using colors, shapes, and textures. Develops Fine Motor Skills - Excellent for improving hand-eye coordination and dexterity, especially in children and seniors. Affordable Craft - Requires minimal tools: paper strips, glue, and a quilling tool (or even a toothpick). Very budget-friendly. Eco-Friendly - Made w...

Introduction: Bannerghatta National Park spans about 260 km² in Karnataka’s Anekal range, approximately 22 km south of Bengaluru in hilly terrain of about 1,245–1,634 m elevation. Established in 1974, it includes the Bannerghatta Biological Park, which was created in 2002 to manage its zoo, safari, butterfly park, and rescue center. Key Attractions Lion & Tiger Safari The Lion Safari houses about 19 lions in a 5‑hectare enclosure, visible via dedicated safari vehicles. The Tiger Safari features approximately 33 tigers—including white tigers—kept in groups; one group is released for public viewing in the forest. Zoo & Rescue Center The zoo spans around 12 ha and showcases over 94 species of mammals, reptiles, and birds, including elephants, king cobra, panthers, sloth bears, and Himalayan black bear. The rescue and rehabilitation center supports confiscated or urban rescue animals—one of the largest in South India. Butterfly Park India’s first Butterfly Park covers 7.5 acres, fe...

Introduction: The liver is a large, reddish-brown organ located in the upper right side of the abdomen , just beneath the diaphragm and above the stomach . It is the largest internal organ in the human body and plays a critical role in keeping you alive and healthy . What is  Detoxification? Detoxification, or detox, is the process of removing harmful substances from your body. While the liver naturally detoxifies itself, modern lifestyles filled with processed foods, alcohol, and pollutants can overburden it. Adopting new strategies for how to detox your liver naturally comes into play. By supporting your liver with the right habits, you can enhance its efficiency and improve your overall health. What Can Help with Improving Your Liver Health? Eat Liver-Friendly Foods -  Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables support digestion and liver function. Stay Hydrated - Water is essential for flushing toxins via urine and supporting metabolism. Aim for at least 8 glasses (2 liters)...

For any individual, learning to sew comes with a wide range of benefits, both practical and personal. Once, when my son started full-time schooling, I had more time for myself, which made me think about unnecessary things and gave me too much pressure and loneliness. So I started learning to sew when I was 38years old and within two months I was able to stitch a few blouses and chudi's for me. I even stitch pattu pavadai and frocks for babies in my house.  Here’s a breakdown of the key advantages: Money Saving: We can repair clothes instead of replacing them or looking for a tailor outside. Create your own clothes, accessories, or home décor items for less than store-bought versions. Tailor garments for a perfect fit and personalize your style with unique fabrics, patterns, and embellishments. Sewing projects involve budgeting time and materials, following instructions, and seeing tasks through from start to finish. Sustainability: Reduce waste by upcycling old clothes. Support slo...

In this blog article I have listed the basic compiled list of the best time-saving tips across different areas of life. These are practical, simple and proven strategies that help streamline your day and boost productivity: Mindset & Planning: Plan your day the night before – Prioritize 3 key tasks (your MITs: Most Important Tasks). Time block your schedule – Dedicate specific time slots for focused work, breaks, and meetings. Use the 80/20 Rule (Pareto Principle) – Focus on the 20% of tasks that yield 80% of the results. Avoid perfectionism – Aim for progress, not perfection. Tech & Tools: Automate repetitive tasks – Use tools like Zapier, IFTTT, or email filters. Use keyboard shortcuts – Especially in tools like Excel, Gmail, and your browser. Limit notifications – Turn off non-essential app alerts or use Focus/Do Not Disturb modes. Use a task manager app – Keep Notes on Phones, Notion, or Microsoft To Do can keep you organized. Work Efficiency: Batch similar tasks – Group si...

Introduction: Wheat semiya is a healthier alternative to traditional refined flour (maida) vermicelli. It’s commonly used in Indian cuisine for dishes like upma, kheer, and pulao. Health Benefits: Whole Grain Advantage and H igher fiber -  Compared to maida semiya, wheat semiya has more dietary fiber, which supports digestion and helps prevent constipation. Better satiety:  The fiber keeps you full for longer, aiding in appetite control and weight management. Lower Glycemic Index (GI) -  R elatively lower GI than refined versions, which means it causes a slower rise in blood sugar levels — helpful for  diabetics  or those monitoring blood sugar. Rich in Nutrients -  Contains  B vitamins  (like niacin, thiamine, and folate),  iron ,  magnesium , and  zinc  — nutrients that support metabolism, immunity, and red blood cell formation. A good source of Plant-Based energy -  A  carbohydrate-rich, making it a good source of ...

Introduction: Wheat semiya is a healthier alternative to traditional refined flour (maida) vermicelli. It’s commonly used in Indian cuisine for dishes like upma, kheer, and pulao. Health Benefits: Whole Grain Advantage and H igher fiber -  Compared to maida semiya, wheat semiya has more dietary fiber, which supports digestion and helps prevent constipation. Better satiety: The fiber keeps you full for longer, aiding in appetite control and weight management. Lower Glycemic Index (GI) - R elatively lower GI than refined versions, which means it causes a slower rise in blood sugar levels — helpful for diabetics or those monitoring blood sugar. Rich in Nutrients -  Contains B vitamins (like niacin, thiamine, and folate), iron , magnesium , and zinc — nutrients that support metabolism, immunity, and red blood cell formation. A good source of Plant-Based energy - A  carbohydrate-rich, making it a good source of energy, especially for active individuals or children. Versati...

Kalakkad is a village located in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu, India. It is famous for its rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes, primarily due to its proximity to the Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve (KMTR), one of the state's most significant protected areas. Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve (KMTR) KMTR was established in 1988, it is Tamil Nadu’s first and largest tiger reserve, spanning approximately 1,601 square kilometers. Despite its designation, the reserve is more celebrated for its dense evergreen forests and remarkable biodiversity, particularly its variety of endemic plant species, than for its tiger population. Key Features: Diverse Ecosystems: The reserve encompasses various vegetation types, including dry thorn forests, dry deciduous forests, moist deciduous forests, and patches of West Coast wet evergreen forests on the higher reaches. Flora and Fauna: KMTR is home to numerous endangered species, such as the lion-tailed macaque, and boasts a rich di...

  Introduction: Pichi Potta Kozhi/Shredded Chicken Fry is a simple chicken appetizer. It is cooked with Indian spices which are easily available at home. It goes well with rice, chapati, and dosa . Ingredients: Chicken 500gms Onion - 100gms (Finely Chopped) Tomato - 1 medium (Finely Chopped) Green Chilli/Red Chilli - 2 (Finely Chopped) Ginger Garlic Paste - 1 Tsp Garam Masala - 1 Tsp Pepper Powder - 2 Tsp Chilli Powder - 1 Tsp (Based on spice level) Turmeric Powder - 1/2 Tsp Salt as needed Curry and Coriander Leaves Recipe: In a pressure cooker, cook the chicken pieces with salt, turmeric powder, and water for two whistles. Shred the cooked chicken into small pieces and keep the chicken stock for future use. Heat coconut/groundnut oil in a kadai and season with dry red/green chilies, fennel seeds and curry leaves. Sauté onions, tomato and ginger garlic paste until the color changes. Now add red chili powder, garam Masala and one tsp of pepper powder. Stir well for a few mins for th...

1. Stick to a Sleep Schedule Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day — even on weekends. This is most important aspect for better sleep. Your body loves routine and will start to feel sleepy naturally at your set time. 2. Limit Screen Time Before Bed Avoid electronics devices like phones, tablets, and computers at least 30–60 minutes before bed. Blue light messes with your melatonin production (the sleep hormone). 3. Watch the Caffeine & Alcohol Cut off caffeine by mid-afternoon (2–3 PM ideally). Alcohol can make you drowsy, but it disrupts deep sleep later on. 4. Make Your Bedroom a Sleep Sanctuary Keep your bed room cool (60–67°F or 16–19°C is ideal). Use blackout curtains, a white noise machine, or earplugs. Make your bed as cozy and inviting as possible. 5. Dim the Lights in the Evening Lower light helps signal to your brain that it’s time to wind down. Try warm, soft lighting at night and expose yourself to sunlight during ...

Winter is a great choice!  There's something magical about the season—whether it's the quiet stillness after a snowfall or the coziness of bundling up with a warm drink. The holiday spirit, twinkling lights, and even the crisp, cool air make it feel like a time for relaxation and reflection. Plus, the snow can make everything look like a beautiful winter wonderland!  Winter in Tamilnadu: Being in TamilNādu we cannot expect snow or extreme chillness during winter. Winter in Tamil Nadu is quite different from the chilly, snow-covered winters you might find in other parts of the world. Tamil Nadu has a tropical climate, so even during winter, the weather remains relatively mild and pleasant. From November to February, the temperature typically hovers between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), making it a comfortable time to enjoy outdoor activities. The cool breeze makes winter a favorite time for many in Tamil Nadu. The pleasant weather is ideal for visiting temples, beaches, and enjo...

Introduction: A beef cutlet is a dish made by taking ground or minced beef, mixing it with spices, and forming it into a patty or cutlet shape. It is typically fried or grilled until golden brown. Beef cutlets are often served with sauces, such as ketchup or gravy, and can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main course. They are popular in many cuisines worldwide, with variations depending on the region. Ingredients: 250 grams boneless meat preferably minced 2 cup Potato - boiled and mashed 2 Onions - chopped 1 tbsp Ginger Garlic Paste 2 Green Chillies  - chopped 1/2 tsp Jeera Powder  Besan powder/Rice Flour/Bread crumbs/Corn Flour - 4 tbsps 1 teaspoon Red Chilli powder (based on your taste buds) 2 teaspoons Garam masala powder 10 curry leaves - chopped 1 tbsp Pepper powder 1/4 teaspoon Turmeric powder 1/4 cup Coriander Leaves - chopped Salt , to taste Oil , for shallow frying Recipe: Cook the meat in a pressure cooker (10 whistles) by adding salt, turmeric powder, ginger ga...

Introduction: Yams are not only delicious but also offer a variety of health benefits. Here are some of the advantages: Rich in Nutrients : Yams are packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, manganese, and fiber, all of which support overall health. High in Antioxidants : They contain antioxidants, including beta-carotene and anthocyanins, which help protect your cells from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation. Heart Health : Potassium, found in yams, plays an important role in regulating blood pressure. Eating yams may help reduce the risk of high blood pressure and support cardiovascular health. Blood Sugar Regulation : Yams have a low glycemic index (GI), which means they are digested slowly, leading to gradual changes in blood sugar levels. This makes them a good option for people with diabetes or those trying to maintain stable blood sugar levels. Anti-Inflammatory Effects : The compounds found in yams, including antioxidants and fiber, h...

Introduction Dear Moms, its in your hands if your going to ruin you son life after wedding or if your going to teach him some valuable things for him to enjoy life with his better half.  Please make sure you teach him some valuable things for him to enjoy life with his better half.  MIL may be the short form of Military, but that doesn't mean all MIL's are as strict as military people.  Make sure you try to have a good bonding with her in the first few days of your togetherness.  Don’t compare your wife with me!  A mother should make sure that her son never compares his wife to her. Whether it comes to cooking or  managing the household, most men end up comparing their better halves to their mommies (knowingly or unknowingly). Dear son, you need to realize that your mother has more than two decades of experience of being a wife (and mother). While, your life partner is as new to marriage as you are. So, whether it is her culinary skills, managing the budget...

Introduction : Mushrooms are a delicious food with loads of health benefits. Different types of mushrooms like portobello, shiitake, oyster, and reishi can provide various nutrients and health advantages. Key benefits of including mushrooms in your diet: Rich in Nutrients : Mushrooms are a great source of vitamins (like B-vitamins, D, and minerals such as selenium, potassium, and copper).  Boost Immune System : Many types of mushrooms, such as shiitake, maitake, and reishi, contain beta-glucans which can enhance the immune system by activating white blood cells. Support Heart Health : Mushrooms can help lower cholesterol and reduce inflammation, both of which support heart health. The fiber and antioxidants in mushrooms are believed to contribute to better cardiovascular function. Promote Gut Health : The prebiotics in mushrooms support healthy gut bacteria, which can improve digestion and overall gut health. Help with Weight Management : Mushrooms are low in calories and high in f...