tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42599894460847081542012-01-12T02:43:05.247-08:00A place where I share my thoughts, photographs and a whole lot more.Would love to have your feedback, so do let me know what you thought...Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.comBlogger3131100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-82044870174583603222012-01-12T02:43:00.000-08:002012-01-12T02:43:05.259-08:00

Whenever I start work on a new book, it doesnt take me much time to outline and then define the key characters in terms of their physical and menatl make up.Thereafter, starts the process of making them become real people who live,  eat, shop, laugh and cry just like all of us do. For An Autumn Melody, I'd created a character called Darshana, who is the main protagonist of the book.That name had

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-27922661612196253732011-11-20T10:17:00.000-08:002011-11-20T10:17:37.979-08:00

This evening saw us at the Qurum Park from 4 m till about 6.Great weather, great companions and an even greater walk!I actually managed to spot some birds in tne swamp and that was a novelty. Moving on it was 'Sunset time' and that only added to the overall flavour of the evening.I must confess that I havent been to Qurim Park in the last whole year so that made for a change too. Lots has

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-61667142229253199872011-11-12T02:50:00.000-08:002011-11-12T02:50:07.883-08:00

We've had a week of Eid holidays here recently and there's been a lot of going 'out and about' in this glorious weather. Sure, we did have a spell of heavy rains, but the major part of the holidays were fairly 'dry' Instead of trying to describe all that we've been doing during this period, I've decided to try another approach. Presenting my collection of the Eid Holiday postcards for all of

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-44741859667830169132011-10-02T08:29:00.000-07:002011-10-02T08:29:38.731-07:00

Its been a while since I've blogged so this is just one to check out if I still remember how to. Lots has happpened in the last couple of months, but the real highlight would just have to be the release of my third book 'An Autumn Melody'. The book has been published by Rupa publications and was launched at the India International Centre, New Delhi on the 9th of Sep, 2011. It was a great

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0New Delhi, Delhi, India28.635308 77.2249600000000128.405279999999998 76.9810245 28.865336 77.46889550000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-30245983363427901282011-08-11T06:14:00.000-07:002011-08-11T06:14:24.079-07:00

It started as all such things usually do, with an isolated incident on Tottenham Road, in London. One man dead and the rest left outraged. That night a riot broke out, was controlled and one would have thought that that was the last we would hear of it. But some things have a way of multiplying when one least expects it and so it was with this. It went on and on and then some more. For four days

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-17827261747640010512011-08-02T11:45:00.000-07:002011-08-02T11:45:56.694-07:00

I lay curled up in a corner of the den, book in hand with just one table lamp on.Nothing else mattered except finishing that particular book.If I could help it, all in one go! Completely lost in another world- that of fantasy, where goblins, trolls, fairies, The Famous Five, Secret Seven and so many other fascinating characters resided.This is what comes to mind when I think of myself -as far

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-28591769593215683422011-07-29T13:14:00.000-07:002011-07-29T13:14:56.546-07:00

 One of my favourite 'things to do' is to head towards Muscat Harbour and the Corniche whenever I get the opportunity.Even more so if it's approaching twilight.For that is really the time when one gets to see the best possible views, combined with some great photo-ops. Such as this one., on an evening not so long ago.When I saw one of the biggest ships that came calling into Muscat Port and one

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-10738762115255455222011-06-19T06:16:00.000-07:002011-06-19T06:16:32.814-07:00

How many times have you found yourself thinking, "Oh, its all right, I'll do it tommorrow."And what are the bets that its many, many  times in one day? But here's the thought that has popped into my head and one that refuses to go away... 'Today' is the best day of the rest of your life, so if you can do that one thing thing today, make sure you do it.And do it well! As Sant Kabeer said, many,

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-38461983699107299962011-05-31T09:32:00.000-07:002011-05-31T09:32:26.389-07:00

I am convinced that one of the easiest way to make oneself happy is to go and look at flowers. They are just so.... And any word you can think of is probably the right one to fit in here. But even better, why dont you make someone else happy by gifting them flowers? Take it from me, that is really the best present you can give. Try it and see...the rewards can be something that will wrap you up

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-2984133452593576032011-05-29T05:58:00.000-07:002011-05-29T05:58:45.656-07:00

Suneinah Street, PDO heights Coming from India, one is well used to the idea of streets being named  after VIP's and celebrities. And therefore, tend to take it in one's stride. But truth can sometimes be stranger than fiction, for I've actually discovered a street called 'Suneinah', right here in Muscat. Its a lovely little street, up in PDO heights and I've managed to click some closeup

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-59061168892736754162011-05-10T06:23:00.000-07:002011-05-10T06:23:40.325-07:00

Sometime back we headed to Barka to check out some interesting picnic spots there. En route, we decided to make an unplanned detour to the Ostrich farm which we had last seen a few years ago.  Methinks he smiles  Going off road, we could see that the approach to the farm was still pretty much the same as was the ruggged terrain all around. Must say we were all excited and anticipating some

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-57602636391989350792011-04-17T06:28:00.000-07:002011-04-17T06:28:40.293-07:00

Al Sawadi Beach One of the best ways to plan a great day out is to head to a beach which is meant 'just for you'. And the Al Sawadi beach in Oman certainly qualifies as that!  A solitary boat  With lovely white sand, water which is almost transparent, fishing boats to take you where-ever  you want and miles and miles of walking space, this is a spot to which you can go to again and again,

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-58801452002816696252011-04-01T02:19:00.000-07:002011-04-01T02:19:41.320-07:00

 Many, many years ago I read a story of Robert Bruce of Scotland and the spider.From what I recall, the Earl had been fighting the English for a very long time and at one point, was absolutely at his wits end-would he ever manage to defeat his enemies? Delighted with his find Then one day in Rachrin, off the Irish coast while he sat terribly troubled in a small cottage where he was in

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-66072512846727039642011-03-25T03:59:00.000-07:002011-03-25T03:59:43.845-07:00

I firmly believe that a great view is one of the pre-requisites for a superb dining experience. And when that is coupled with some authentic French cuisine, then that makes for a complete evening... Which was exactly what we found when we tried out the 'La Brasserie' resataurant at the Mutrah Corniche recently.From the soup, to the superbly aromatic grilled fish, one really couldn't have asked

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-77733860396843300502011-03-25T01:55:00.000-07:002011-03-25T01:55:29.621-07:00

In February we went to Wadi Bani Auf and then owards to check out a bee- keeping farm over there. It was great fun, all the more because it was a really rough ride. The bees and their honey Followed by a long trek upwards to the farm itself. Now that was one of the most unique things I've ever seen, since the bees and their honey were sealed into logs of wood. There was just enough place

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-72500063550690778202011-01-31T06:34:00.000-08:002011-01-31T06:34:23.839-08:00

Last weekend, close to sunset, we found ourselves in 'Zafraniya', or as is sometimes better known, Hillat Al Zadjali. It is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Muscat and certainly one of the prettiest. A lovely old home Unexpected delights Walking through, we came upon an old graveyard, with some children playing nearby, sometimes even running across the unmarked graves. It all seemed so

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-2436935653006802372011-01-02T23:02:00.001-08:002011-01-02T23:02:14.848-08:00

There are events and then there are some more events!What we saw on the first day of New Year was truly the stuff that great memories are made of.   The Royal Equestrian and camel festival, (1/1/11) held at the Wattayah stadium, showcased the best possible combinations of sound, light, music, spectacular animals and people.It was a three hour feast for the eyes and the ears and one that just kept

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-67621951063997856572010-11-10T04:16:00.000-08:002010-11-10T04:16:04.518-08:00

I firmly believe that what is meant to be, will be. Or looking at it in another context, if you were meant to lose something you certainly will, as also applies the other way around. The other day, I lost a part of my antique earing, one which had been gifted by my mother and which originally belonged to her grandmother.You see we were going out to a Diwali party and there was no way that I

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-12650285135762339532010-10-29T13:05:00.000-07:002010-10-29T13:05:40.559-07:00

As for the ACP, he was all eyes and ears. Sometime earlier, he had taken out his small black dairy in which he always made detailed notes which helped him to get a clear picture and a strong basis for his logical and analytical mind that would slowly but surely come straight down to the heart of the matter.  That was precisely the reason, why he had been such a successful cop till date. All the

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-5592081908927454222010-08-30T11:12:00.000-07:002010-08-30T11:12:14.187-07:00

I'm a firm believer in the fact that we all have 'Guardian angels' who watch over us and look after us.Sometimes even to the extent of helping us in choosing the right path  when things seem to be going terribly wrong or when we are in a state of confusion about the lines that can be drawn separating black from white, or then  the other way around... But even more than me, its my mother who has

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-85407354065634135342010-08-18T06:38:00.000-07:002010-08-18T06:38:29.303-07:00

It is that time of the year again, here in the Gulf. Ramadan the month of abstinence and fasting.A time when people test their limits of endurance and do so happily, staying without water and food from dawn to dusk. Then meeting up with friends and family to break the fast in the evening. This is something that children sometimes as young as ten years of age, undertake and that too...voluntarily

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-44726623878435285812010-08-03T07:39:00.000-07:002010-08-03T07:39:06.447-07:00

"The toughest part of a diet isn't watching what you eat. It's watching what other people eat!" This was a line that I posted on my FB profile today and was amazed at the number of comments that it generated. To cut the long story short, most of them were in complete agreement with the line and ruefully acknowledged that that that it was 'oh so true'. As someone who has been through the Yo Yo

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-9878270140123907302010-07-18T07:03:00.000-07:002010-07-18T07:03:52.899-07:00

There is a very special charm in walking through the old part of any city.This could be anywhere in the world but nothing like it if it happens to be in the city where one has spent the last many years. So thse are some images that I captured while walking through Matrah Souq here in Muscat one day not so long ago.   It was an experience indeed and one that I thoroughly enjoyed . So much so that

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-34504826237379859712010-07-11T14:20:00.000-07:002010-07-11T14:20:42.986-07:00

Paul the Octopus was right all along, and Spin have done it! Winning the World Cup against Netherlands- 1-0 was no mean task. And this is the man under whose guidance and training they have done it.Del Bosque has put Spain on top pof the World Football mapAs I watch the Spanish team line up to receive the trophy I feel a sense of great joy for the Spaniards, already the European Champs and now

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-6190266501805017922010-06-20T13:22:00.000-07:002010-06-20T13:22:09.266-07:00

There are tragedies and then there are horror stories.Like the one that happened in Bhopal in 1984. The Bhopal  Gas Tragedy is believed to be the world's worst ever industrial catastrophe and occurred on the night of December 2-3, 1984 at the Union Carbide pesticide plant in Bhopal.Around midnight on December 2–3, 1984, there was a leak of methyl isocyanate (MIC) gas and other toxins from the

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-30485594284457798512010-06-14T06:48:00.000-07:002010-06-14T06:48:33.811-07:00

Milestones are special and its only right that they should be.For each of them 'marks a moment'. For me this particular blogpost is a milestone,being my 300th. This blog was started soon after 'A Safe Harbour' was published and Ive used it to talk about any and all issues that I've thought were relevant. And for the most part have had a great time doing so. But since movement  and change is

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-49858060551169963572010-06-12T06:01:00.000-07:002010-06-12T06:01:30.801-07:00

Sometimes we forget how important 'Self respect' is, or then its quite possible that  we sometimes underestimate its value for  a child of of thirteen. But just for a moment imagine how a sensitive child would feel if he is publicly humiliated repeatedly, first by being hit by a class teacher, then made to stand outside class for a whole month. Or if all of this wasn't enough, then being caned

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-38157137774531502312010-06-11T00:34:00.000-07:002010-06-11T00:34:25.886-07:00

Matrah Souq in Muscat is one of the most delightfully quaint places in the world.A true amalgamation of the best of sights, sounds and smells, this is one of my favourite places to head to. And the walk towards it is possibly even better.. Reminiscient in many ways of Chandni Chowk in Delhi, it leads one through twisting and turning lanes, bylanes and alleys...each one revealing more and more

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-6405517732465513512010-06-06T07:16:00.000-07:002010-06-06T07:16:50.665-07:00

Its now been two days since the Tropical storm Phet passed through Oman and things have gone back to almost normal. And life is back on track or so it seems. But look closer beneath the surface and you will see many things which will take some more time to stabilize. For one there are severe traffic jams which are because some parts of town got severly flooded and some roads have been closed

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-65556926723528272462010-06-04T12:22:00.000-07:002010-06-04T12:22:51.917-07:00

Honestly I don't remember the last time I sat down for about three hours and played a game of Monopoly with my family.So today has to be noted as a landmark day, for we all just finished a marathon session! It's an entirely different matter that I was the first one out, it was the sheer difference that it made to the way that an evening is normally spent.And for that we have to  thank Cyclone

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-40266184078838472062010-06-03T02:27:00.000-07:002010-06-03T02:27:22.251-07:00

As we remain concerned about the prospect of Cyclone Phet hitting Oman's Coastal areas, my mind goes back to that awful day in June, almost exactly three years to the day. It was the 6th of June 2007 and Cyclone Gonu hit Muscat.  Cyclone Gonu leaves behind a trail of destruction at Al Amerat, and Wadi Adai areas. (My article -Oman Observer-7/6/07) Residents of Al Amerat and Wadi Adai areas

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-69286775000300847512010-05-31T13:08:00.000-07:002010-05-31T13:08:14.799-07:00

Gary Coleman, famous for his role in the long running hit TV sitcom 'Different Strokes' died a couple of days ago.That thought was still running through my mind as we went for the opening of Art for Atta held at the Bait Al Zubair museum last evening. And what we saw was different strokes indeed. Designed as an Art show where half the proceeds raised are planned to be given to  Dar Al Atta a 

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-41297286364619541352010-05-26T06:26:00.000-07:002010-05-26T06:26:28.286-07:00

I really enjoy taking pics while driving through. That of course really means that I'm not driving, but being driven. Some very interesting pics that I've taken over the last couple of years have been those ones. I think that it gives a particularly nice effect...one of going right through, or in other cases, driving by. Here's one that I'm sharing- this has been taken while driving

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-7283753057326485132010-05-25T13:07:00.000-07:002010-05-25T13:07:35.324-07:00

20 years after 14 year old Ruchika Girhotra was molested by then Inspector General of Police, Rathore, he has spent his first night in jail. This is going to be the start of the next 18 months that he will do 'Jail time',during which he will have all the time in the world to reflect on what he did on that hot summer's day. But even more, he should reflect on all that he did to cover up his

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-68532554704128392622010-05-23T13:15:00.000-07:002010-05-23T13:15:36.587-07:00

" Where do you go to my lovely?" was that very old song in the 70s. It was one that I really liked and if I introspect, probably still do..So if you look carefully at this pic, you might wonder where this path leads to? Hmmm.. now that's an interesting thought, for much like that old song, this too has an intriguing story.This is the path that leads from Tiwi to Wadi Shab( Oman)  and one that

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-43945585154764841222010-05-22T13:55:00.000-07:002010-05-22T13:55:14.040-07:00

We all have places where we particularly like to walk.Topping all of those, is "one particular place." Well this is my favourite walk in the whole..wide...world. This is the wlak from the Deepak mess in Chotta Shimla leading upto NAv Bahar,and passing CJM schooland the St Bedes College.About 4 kms of pure, unadulterated beauty and lush green forests. And for that particular element of intrigue

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-8331284395368956932010-05-21T04:44:00.000-07:002010-05-21T04:44:46.128-07:00

It's been over twenty years,and this is the one soap that I'm still watching! In fact, is got such a hold of me that I find it very difficult if I've missed a couple of episodes and don't know what transpired. Ridge, Brooke, Taylor,Thorne,Eric, Stephanie, Bridgette and Dominic are among the many interesting  characters whose lives and loves are intertwined and seem to converge and diverge over

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-65440636105083681202010-05-20T04:07:00.000-07:002010-05-20T04:07:22.858-07:00

Burger King is back in town, went the Buzzword, and I found my radar on a high alert... Hmm, now that was a burger I could eat, was what my mind told me.or it was flame grilled, unlike all the others, which I know for a fact are deep fried. So last evening was when I informed Avi that that was what it would be for dinner( Might I add,  after a giant meal eaten for Lunch at the Great Kabab Factory

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-11876405203988263932010-05-18T06:07:00.000-07:002010-05-18T06:07:09.694-07:00

It was almost exactly two years ago that a bright young girl Aarushi Talwar, was found brutally murdered. The fact that it happened to be in her own bed, at home was something that sent shock waves throughout India. What was even more surprising was that her parents, both doctors, had apparently slept throughout this whole period and only discovered the body the next morning. A day later and

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-75674747914173818022010-05-17T07:45:00.000-07:002010-05-17T07:45:43.764-07:00

One of my favourite 'things to do' is to head towards Muscat Harbour and the Corniche whenever I get the opportunity. Even  more so if it's approaching twilight. For that is really the time when one gets to see the best possible views, combined with some great photo-ops. Such as this one., on an evening not so long ago... When I saw one of the biggest ships that came calling into Muscat Port

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-24450037681394527182010-05-14T12:13:00.000-07:002010-05-14T12:13:16.611-07:00

Japan and Excellenceare two words that have always gone together in my book. And this was proved conclusively, yet again when I saw the Hanae Moroi show here recently. Aptly titled 'East Meets West', the show was an amalgamation of the best that can be offered, Whether it was the spectacular set, the music, the colour, or the accessories, it all came together as a superb blend. Best of all was

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-62545095645267509022010-05-12T13:37:00.000-07:002010-05-12T13:37:28.504-07:00

One of the easiest ways to understand the meaning of 'Happiness' is to watch a person's body language. And it gets even better if you are are able to capture that moment forever. I was lucky for I managed to do just that. One lovely morning at the beach. He was so happy and I was so happy just watching him. Then I clicked.... and Hey presto. Here it is Frozen till eternity

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-46782548264114246142010-05-11T12:41:00.000-07:002010-05-11T12:41:03.337-07:00

"No one can confidently say that he will still be living tomorrow"said Euripedes a long time ago. And this was re-inforced so very strongly to me this evening that I am still reeling.. While returning from an evening event in the Old Muscat area, we had to pass through Ruwi to reach home.Just near the roundabout we noted that there was a traffic blockage and slowly came right upto it. Then

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-53521309912613154692010-05-07T21:51:00.000-07:002010-05-07T21:51:04.785-07:00

Last evening we had the opportunity to watch an extremely interesting play called 'Chaos Theory'. In essence, this play successfully captures the peculiar dynamics between two middle-aged professors at Harvard who have known each since their student days at St. Stephen’s College in New Delhi. Sunita is a fiercely  independent, witty and intelligent girl, while Mukesh, who is her intellectual

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-35567317124861580482010-05-07T02:01:00.000-07:002010-05-07T02:01:57.134-07:00

There was a time when "Going to the elections" meant getting Clear Results. Whether it was the same old party coming back to power or the new one. But thats certainly not been the case in most Parliamentary elections in the last few years. More particularly in India the last couple of times and today in the UK, for the first time in 60 years. I'm using some excerpts from the BBC news to

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-22242078621595836112010-05-06T02:03:00.000-07:002010-05-06T02:03:25.313-07:00

And so it is over... Death for Kasab in the worst ever massacre of Indians with purely deliberate and evil intent . The judge ruled that the man "had lost the right of getting any humanitarian benefit". Kasab cried as the judgement was being pronounced and I must say that I felt a personal sense of vindication. For this same man, had giggled hysterically as he gunned down numerous innocent men

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-56740432358576934172010-05-03T12:57:00.000-07:002010-05-03T12:57:37.128-07:00

26th and 27th of Nov are dates that no Indian anywhere in the world can forget.I too am one such and today as Kasab was held guilty on all counts brought against him,I relooked at what Id written on those two days.Here it is, unedited, in all its starkness.. "54 hours into the stand-off, and there is still no sign of the situation coming to an end. And this, while the whole world watches in

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-45612885293153018372010-04-30T01:40:00.000-07:002010-04-30T01:40:48.395-07:00

One learns very quickly how to behave and act in unfamiliar surroundings.And coming on top of the list is good old fashioned courtesy..something which can really get a person miles ahead. What Ive learnt to do in the course of my wanderings across the hamlets and villages here in Oman is to politely enquire everytime I wish to click a photograph.More so if it involves an older person or a lady as

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-65271774790274307992010-04-26T12:47:00.000-07:002010-04-26T12:47:22.299-07:00

Most people thought it would rain today, particularly after it had rained heavily in the interiors yesterday.So towards 430 pm, I headed towards the Matrah Harbour where I wanted to catch the sunset. Then walked around clicking some shots and finally sat by the Corniche watching the sky as well as the sea change colour. People walked, jogged, laughed and talked. All the while the promise of rain

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-19909518193674745172010-04-25T07:00:00.000-07:002010-04-25T07:00:44.086-07:00

IPL Gate-As the saga continues to unfold with stops and starts and its daily ups and downs we can't help but think about its possible outcome... One of the things I relish most about writing my blog is reading the comments and feedback that I receive, particularly from those I send it on to via e-mail feed. This is what I've just received from my brother, Dr Navtej Serna,a keen "life and

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-51917321516116502902010-04-24T06:14:00.000-07:002010-04-24T06:14:21.315-07:00

One of the best things that people look forward to is going home at the end of a day. To rest their 'work weary' bones and relax in the comfort of their own familiar surroundings. Where they can unwind and simply 'be'... Then of course, there are some visuals that strongly evoke that very same feeling. So here's one that does it for me, tell me if if you feel the same way too...

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-61247742615950111112010-04-21T13:02:00.000-07:002010-04-21T13:02:03.695-07:00

Almost a week after the 'IPL saga' began and with the MOS for External Affairs having already gone, it might well be the turn ofthe IPL Commissioner, Lalit Modi next.. In the bargain, a whole host of other issues that so far had been ignored have come upto the forefront as well. Tales of sleaze, dirty money and wheeling/dealing are growing by the day.As the IT slueths began their  raids on

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-52304886764349751422010-04-19T12:44:00.000-07:002010-04-24T07:11:16.447-07:00

Do you remember the famous song 'Desert Rose' by Sting? It's lyrics as well as the music were extremely haunting, and one couldn't help but wonder what exactly was this 'Desert rose'... Here's the most likely answer, or certainly one that I would like to talk about. 'Jabal Akhdar', or the Green mountains in Oman is the place where the most beautiful pink roses bloom and in April there are

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-78874130399636891462010-04-18T11:23:00.000-07:002010-04-18T11:23:18.419-07:00

It really was a matter of time and the writing was quite clearly on the wall.As the news channels had been ominously reporting since yesterday, it was not a matter of 'if', but rather than a matter of 'when' Shashi Tharoor would resign. Just over twenty four hours after the PM, Dr. Manmohan Singh returned from his eight day foreign tour, Shashi Tharoor went across to his residence in his

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-46606854091471771952010-04-16T13:19:00.000-07:002010-04-16T13:19:01.764-07:00

The last three days have seen a new drama playing itself out-in Parliament, on the news and just about everywhere one looks. It all started so innocously-with just one simple 'Tweet', where the IPL Chairman Lalit Modi exposed who had bid for the Kochi team.It so happened that one of the major stakeholders is a lady who is currently closely associated with Shashi Tharoor, something which was

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-53462435525792587592010-04-13T09:09:00.000-07:002010-04-13T09:09:47.568-07:00

I absolutely love a Juicy Burger, accompanied by French fries and a ( Diet)Coke. Or rather there was a point in time that I 'used' to, having given up this indulgence about ten years ago. That was because I became aware of what was really going inside my body when I devoured my burger and fries. But then do we have to give up almost everything that we like to eat or drink, simply because.....?Yet

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-30487505155260761242010-04-11T12:46:00.000-07:002010-04-11T12:46:40.479-07:00

This evening we saw 'Tum Milo to Sahi' . It was a different kind of movie and one that has something in it for everybody. For it successfully reaches across all age groups and tells a story from their perspective The film is primarily a story about three  couples: The olderst being Subramanium (Nana Patekar)who  is a retired, cynical person. With nothing more to do in life, he meets Delshad (

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-34957325789372115292010-04-10T13:30:00.000-07:002010-04-10T13:30:39.675-07:00

Sometimes we reach a particular spot which surprises us with its unexpected beauty and then that becomes a benchmark for many future expeditions or trips that we might undertake in the future. Thats exactly what happened a couple of months ago when I was in Tiwi and Wadi Shab(Oman) for I saw and managed to click some of my most unforgettable shots ever. Shots that I choose to go back to time and

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-22537981420718518502010-04-07T13:11:00.000-07:002010-04-07T13:11:15.630-07:00

Did they/Didnt they? Or then again Did they? Marry in haste and then repent in leisure? These were the questions that have been raised over the course of the last week as the drama of Shoaib/Sania/Ayesha marriage/s played itself out on our TV screens. Till yesterday, Shoaib categorically denied that he had married the lady Ayesha who claimed she was his wife, saying instead that he'd "been had"

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-32736400478291517472010-04-03T10:52:00.000-07:002010-04-03T10:52:02.178-07:00

Say you decide to take the Shatabdi Express from New Delhi station to Chandigarh...something that you've done at least a hundred times earlier.But this time, there's a real difference. For just after you've boarded the train and reach out for your wallet to pay the Coolie, you disover that you've been pickpocketed... Far more important than the money you've lost are your ID cards, particularly

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-29759826143484715702010-03-28T07:15:00.000-07:002010-03-28T07:15:05.580-07:00

I've often wondered, how long I could go without sleep. And about three years ago, did manage to stay awake for almost two days running,. That was of course, because I was travelling and the body clock was  very, very confused. But what I do remember is that it wasn't a good feeling-at all, in fact. Having done some basic reading, I'm reminded of the fact that sleep is a basic human need, as

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-23911909351715242822010-03-27T09:11:00.000-07:002010-03-27T09:11:36.171-07:00

Thursday, the 25th of March will remain a date to remember forever, at least in the history of Oman's burgeoning Twitter Community. The First ever 'Twestival' was held on board the Hormuz, the worlds fastest (deisel )catamaran and 125 Oman Tweeps gathered to have fun and enjoy an evening on board, in the Arabian sea. But more than all of that, to support the cause of education in the Sultanate

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-61262942732471297962010-03-27T08:40:00.000-07:002010-03-27T08:40:48.299-07:00

We had an opportunity to hear the world famous Islamic preacher,Shaikh Yusuf Estes Salam give a talk on Islam and its relationship with other religions a few days back.It really was an evening to remember... for many reasons. For one, it was held within the precincts of the Grand Mosque, truly the most magnificient structure in all of Oman. Two, Shaikh Yusuf Estes, himself was a Christan preacher

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-49905610505148094492010-03-22T11:50:00.000-07:002010-03-22T11:50:45.190-07:00

Children are supposed to be happy and healthy. Always smiling, playful and joyful. And as parents we do try our very best to make that happen. Sometimes even at the cost of sacrificing many things that we ourselves could have done with.Because their needs come before ours, and that is what we firmly believe in. But it is sad when we see a child crying,particularly when no one seems to care. When

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-34899377181293990162010-03-19T06:16:00.000-07:002010-03-19T06:16:34.447-07:00

There is a village called Al Hamra and another one called Misfat Al Abreeyan in Oman. And this is what they are aboutOld, beautiful...and with great photo opportunities. Do check them outYou will love them

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-27590586952511152962010-03-14T12:56:00.000-07:002010-03-14T12:56:23.117-07:00

"A picture can say a thousand words".I've said this earlier and so will let these pics do all the talking.Leaving you with some moods and images at sunset..one day,not so long ago

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-48367790604300277722010-03-12T02:01:00.000-08:002010-03-12T02:01:59.890-08:00

There is a particular beauty to all things Japanese-Be it  the costumes, the food, the flowers and most of all their deep rooted love for tradition, all are equally fascinating. Combined with the huge leaps in technological progress that the Japanese people have registered over the last many years, there is a lot that we can all learn from. I'm leaving you with a few visuals, which I'm sure will

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-6624214354488413682010-03-09T10:43:00.000-08:002010-03-09T10:43:12.835-08:00

It had to happen and it did. 9th March 2010,14 years after the process for the Bill was first initiated in the Indian Parlaiment, the Bill s now all set to become a reality. Today it was finally passed in the Rajya Sabha( the Upper house of Parliament) with 186 "for" and 1 "against" it. The rest of the process will take some more time, and so it well might. For the Bill to become a reality, it

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-72156235956539517952010-03-05T09:20:00.000-08:002010-03-05T09:20:08.243-08:00

This is a picture of a Indian girl child as I captured her somewhere, two years ago. A happy, smiling girl child. Now fast forward to twenty years later, and think about what she would be doing. And imagine her as a sad, unhappy, person. Because she is denied the basic fundamental right that every Indian woman should have..that of representataion in the Indian Parliament. Yes,. it is true, all

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-60216893894188761022010-03-03T12:07:00.000-08:002010-03-03T12:07:43.065-08:00

I normally don't write two consecutive posts on the same subject, but something compelled me to, on   MF Husain. I saw an Interview in which he categorically denied that he felt hurt/rejected by Indai in any way, instead saying that he was a "Citizen of the world" and that all he wanted at age 95, was to be left to paint in peace. Nothing wrong on the surface, but did I imagine a shadow of

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-75291414592385950342010-03-01T11:25:00.000-08:002010-03-01T11:25:05.864-08:00

Maqbool Fida Hussain, 95, has a new Passport, a Qatari one. That is his decision to make and his alone. For a man who has been living out of India for the last ten, or more years, never sure of what awaits him, if he was to chose to return to the country of his birth, it must come as a sense of great security.... At least one country has welcomed him with the respect and the dignity that any

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-37820717247856436652010-02-28T11:51:00.000-08:002010-02-28T11:51:31.001-08:00

What is the real reward of climbing a hill or a mountain top?A view to die for? Then going across to the other side of the hill, forgetting your aching bones, which have been steadily at it for the last one hour?All of which has been uphill... Then getting to see the beautiful harbour at Twilight. I did this one last Thursday, and would do it..again..and again..and again.For the best was yet to

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-64030126840355939182010-02-23T09:11:00.000-08:002010-02-23T09:11:54.457-08:00

We frequently talk of the beauty of nature, topping the list of which are usually sunrises, or sunsets. Sometimes, parks and gardens, or then hills and mountains. But we never talk of the beauty of clouds. For they are usually considered to be 'regular everyday happenings'. Those that we take in our stride, for they are always, but always there. I confess to being guilty of the same sin,

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-14271411524328179052010-02-19T12:41:00.000-08:002010-02-19T12:41:26.643-08:00

We all love action movies. That's basically because we can feel the pace and the excitement that accompanies what we are watching on the screen. But watching real live action is far more exciting, for one can actually feel the pulse of what is unfolding. And that was exactly what we had the opportunity to see today. The action was the grand finale of the Tour of Oman by  of the worlds best

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-66621013214384787712010-02-15T09:09:00.000-08:002010-02-15T09:09:28.632-08:00

Pune-13th Feb 10, Saturday evening. The week-end, when people normally head out for an evening of fun and frolic. To put the travails of the working week behind them and get a well deseved break. And then in the most unexpected way, terror strikes, catching them unwares. A bomb blast that ripped through Pune's landmark, the famous  German Bakery, where a waiter had just picked up and opened

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-3650270567606913512010-02-08T12:00:00.000-08:002010-02-08T12:00:03.894-08:00

What could be lovelier or calming than standing by/overlooking the sea from a height?Very little else, I am convinced.So on this particular day,I headed to one of my favourite spots when it was still bright( about 330 pm), having packed my evening tea and snack, "to go" Then I watched the day turn to twilight and on to sundown..Watching the myriad hues and colurs I realised (yet again,) that only

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-11859614661710635452010-02-07T12:06:00.000-08:002010-02-07T12:06:59.791-08:00

Today was one of those days..when it rained..And then it rained some more..Till the roads were flooded,and the traffic jams endless.And even though I had a tough time going about my day's business, there was a constant refrain in my mind and head.That of Jose Feliciano's song-."Listen to the falling rain, listen to it fall..." Which made it oh so easy,as did these snaps. Maybe tomorrow will be

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-8297845385217532112010-02-05T11:07:00.000-08:002010-02-05T11:07:15.716-08:00

He came, he spoke and he didn't hesitate. Even when tough questions were thrown at him. All answered with wit, brevity and total honesty.Pretty much as we had expected. About 40 Muscat Tweeps had the opportunity to have an exclusive session with Dr Shashi Tharoor,where there was a free flowing exchange of information at  a very interesting Tweet/Meet up this evening and one with a clear

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-78592102463739901702010-02-04T11:43:00.000-08:002010-02-04T11:43:44.047-08:00

Today, 4th of February, is World Cancer Day. To remind us of what that day means, the NACA( National Association for Cancer Awareness) held a formal Dinner, where some very enlightening as well as heartening facts emerged. "Cancer can be prevented too", is a Global campaign launched by the International Union against Cancer, to increase public awareness and how a number of simple steps can

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-52716304178121857572010-02-03T11:59:00.000-08:002010-02-03T11:59:09.108-08:00

Sometimes we stand back and look at where we are. From the outside, or then if you would, from the inside out. To evaluate where we would like to go next. This can happen at any age, or at any point in time, and  can really be a good thing. For it can serve as a major turning point.... Or then help us in getting better, stronger, happier at what we are doing at this particular point in time.

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-60088332978293150102010-02-01T11:59:00.000-08:002010-02-01T11:59:19.628-08:00

There is that particular  time of the day, Twilight, when the hues and colours of the day are at their very best. When one can look around in any direction and see only sheer beauty reflected all around... A time to reflect on all that has been done that day, and possibly in the years left behind. But even more than that, my take is that these are the moments of sheer 'being'. Sometimes by

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-76105708950283376732010-01-31T06:01:00.000-08:002010-01-31T06:01:07.255-08:00

What could be simpler and more real than the the love, the caring and the sharing...that a parent and child share? Taking those first few steps, afraid to fall, yet knowing that someone is there....  ready to provide that 'oh so ready' helping hand. The sheer bliss of being a trusting young child. Time passes, little children become bigger children and then even more so. Then come the middle

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-65902698849828460302010-01-26T05:32:00.000-08:002010-01-26T05:32:07.926-08:00

60 YEARS AGO- Dr. Rajendra Prasad addressed all Indians-"We must re-dedicate ourselves on this day to the peaceful but sure realization of the dream...dedication to the glorious task of making the peasants, the toilers and the thinkers fully free, happy and cultured." A very happy Republic Day to all.... These were the lines running through my head right through yesterday and this morning.

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-19839538559085344912010-01-23T11:01:00.000-08:002010-01-23T11:01:35.027-08:00

I had a real "Adventure of Arabia', last week. That was when ten of us, an all female crew, made our way up to Tiwi and Wadi Shab, here in Oman.  I frequently believe that I can easily let pictures tell a story, so here's just another example of that. Sheer beauty, lush vegetation (including palm trees and bananas), along with a completely unspoilt and undisturbed rustic charm- it was all  

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-70019770050299526942010-01-18T12:21:00.000-08:002010-01-18T12:21:07.731-08:00

Be it painting, photography, crafts  or flower arrangement, there is a particular satisfaction in creating something that looks good. What you see here is the evolution of the All Round Circular design.. Simply put- Using the outline material, the floral 'designer'establishes the height and width of the design The outline material is then radiated at different levels all around from the

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-90789527948137211632010-01-16T12:06:00.000-08:002010-01-16T12:06:57.875-08:00

Sometimes, I think about it. Like I'm sure all of us tend to as well. Why is it that SLEEP is at the bottom of our priority list? A day has 24 hours, and each of those hours can be used in many ways- work/ leisure/play. Yet what we tend to do( more often than not) is to extend those waking hours to way more than what can be 'naturally manged' For we think that sleep will just somehow.....happen

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-73976155452131476092010-01-15T07:30:00.000-08:002010-01-15T07:30:54.024-08:00

We all reach it sooner or later... A turning point, from where we review our take on life and way of living. More often than not, it is brought about by illness, either one's own, or then someone close. Like what recently happened to one of our oldest friends here. It came on all of a sudden, a nagging headache, followed by nausea and vomiting. And before long, the pain had intensified beyond

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-64183137413133362622010-01-12T11:57:00.000-08:002010-01-12T11:57:20.636-08:00

This is that particular time of the year... A time when flowers  are out in full bloom.In fact everywhere one looks, one sees bright splashes of colour... And then some more. A time when one really can and should make the most of being outdoors, for this too will pass. So that's what I plan to do. Visit at least one new spot every weekend, and revel in the brightness, colour and happiness

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-733991436555924302010-01-09T06:18:00.000-08:002010-01-09T06:18:57.183-08:00

I consider myself lucky, for I've been one of the early birds to have been invited to visit the magnificent Oman Botanic  Gardens currently being set up here in Muscat. Situated in the Al Khoudh area, where Dinosaurs were actually known to be living, this 425 hectare site will be at the forefront of the world leading botanic institutions.   Apart from displaying the Flora and fauna of Oman,

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-22014324479064246042010-01-07T23:53:00.000-08:002010-01-07T23:53:25.399-08:00

I was walking one late evening, when I received a text message from my daughter who was out with friends. The text simply said, "Ma look up at the moon." While I tried to find the moon  from where I was and failed, there came yet another more excited text one which said, "You must take Pics!"   Finally figuring out the direction where I should be looking for it, I headed straight home, got out

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-55054377892841607702010-01-06T08:30:00.000-08:002010-01-06T08:30:21.622-08:00

We all have places that we love to go back to, again and again. Some possibly more than others.I too have a few and high on the list is a beautiful  resort in Himachal Pradesh called Craignano. Located at a distance of about 16 kms from Shimla, Craignano is an old pre-independence era retreat named after the Italian Countess of Craignano.At 2149 metres above sea level, today it is an unique

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-52967100928411199522010-01-03T22:27:00.000-08:002010-01-03T22:27:28.151-08:00

"If Winter's  here can spring be  be far behind?"said PB Shelley in his immortal, Ode to the West Wind. I'm altering it slightly to read as If Winter's here can summer be far behind? A time days are lazy and sometimes hazy. When  ducks float on the water with not a care in the world. When the flowers are in full bloom and butterflies gently descend on them for nectar and honey. When

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-88180411230682318262010-01-03T05:49:00.000-08:002010-01-03T05:49:52.096-08:00

Once upon a time

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-89594293795743309912009-12-31T02:57:00.000-08:002009-12-31T02:57:26.397-08:00

For my last Blogpost of the year, I decided to just focus on all the postives that have been and will be. The very fact that we are still here on this earth.Healthy, happy and with things to look forward to. For this is much more than so many millions in this world have. To use a cliche, we tend to focus a great deal on the past as well as the future. In the bargain, we tend to forget the joys

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-1236713425032095282009-12-29T08:10:00.000-08:002009-12-29T08:10:55.964-08:00

As  a  year draws to a close, its normal to randomly run through what that particular year has meant to us. Or at the very least, think of some ways in which we have changed/moved on/done something different /Or then not? Some of my random, top of mind thoughts: 1.We thought that the global recession which hit very suddenly and very hard,  was thankfully, on its way out. Then Dubai

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-6785979307200602962009-12-26T05:14:00.000-08:002009-12-26T05:14:15.155-08:00

Some days I write my blog for the express purpose of delighting in the photographs that I've taken, and today is definitely one such day. After finishing my  planned agenda for the morning and particularly because it was such a wonderful day, I headed towards the Muscat Corniche where one gets an awesome view of the Arabian sea. And this is what I came upon.  Such beauty needed compelled me to

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-74873009052602955162009-12-23T21:54:00.000-08:002009-12-23T21:54:59.874-08:00

Indian weddings are great fun  because of all that is entailed. They are even more so, when they are held outside India.As is the case these days, when a daughter of one of our friends is getting married here. A time to enjoy the great weather as well as all the festivities associated with the occassion. For all those who are not familiar with the ceremonies, here's my chance to enlighten

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-922982092531994312009-12-22T08:21:00.000-08:002009-12-22T08:37:44.547-08:00

Yesterday , after a long gap of nineteen years, the molester of 14 year Ruchika Gehrotra, former Director General of Police SPS Rathore  was punished by a court. His punishment,  a jail term of 6 months a fine of Rs. 1000 and simultaneously granted a bail to appeal. The event-In 1990, then IG of Police and president of tennis Association of State of Haryana, SPS Rathore, called up a budding

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-86082712190446527072009-12-20T23:53:00.000-08:002009-12-20T23:53:39.907-08:00

Since a picture can say a thousand words, Im going to use both of these to try and illustrate the point. These are both taken in about the same spot, of course at different times of the day, The one taken  at approaching dusk gives one the feeling of things 'yet to happen', and looking through the windows of the rooms one can try and think of what might be going on inside the hotel. Let your

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4259989446084708154.post-33196419296035207772009-12-15T21:18:00.000-08:002009-12-15T21:18:24.539-08:00

Roads not taken, things not done. This is a universal thought and one which can pop up every now and then, and at any point in the day. For the simple fact of life is that we have all wanted to 'do' and 'be' different people and things from what we have acatually landed up doing. Some who might have wanted to become photographers are Accountants/Partners working in a firm today.They might be

Sunaina Serna Ahluwaliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02730395725911184774noreply@blogger.com0