Visit to Jim Corbett Park in Feb 2015

Bengal Tiger Abode

Jim Corbett National Park, located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, is a renowned wildlife sanctuary and a haven for nature enthusiasts. 

Abundance wild life.

The park, named after the legendary hunter-turned-conservationist Jim Corbett, is celebrated for its diverse flora and fauna, including the majestic Bengal tiger.

Ready to go…

Embarking on a safari in a sturdy jeep is a thrilling way to explore the vast expanse of the park. As we traversed the rugged terrain, the air was filled with anticipation, hoping to catch a glimpse of the elusive tigers that roam freely within. 

A selfie

The experienced drivers, well-versed in the park's nuances, skillfully navigate through the dense foliage in pursuit of wildlife encounters.

The Machhan

Our journey was marked by the eagerness of the group, with everyone eagerly listening for any rustle or call signaling the presence of a tiger. The synchronized movements of the jeeps, following the lead of the driver, create an atmosphere charged with excitement.

Vainly awaiting for sighting a Tiger

Despite the collective efforts and the keen eyes of fellow passengers, the elusive nature of the tiger prevailed during our visit. 

Our Jeep partners seem thrilled by the chase.

Disappointment mingled with the thrill of the chase as we experienced the unpredictability of wildlife sightings. However, the tales shared by others who claimed to have witnessed the majestic creatures up close added a layer of camaraderie to the adventure.

Our apartment was right on the banks of River Kosi only separated by a thin barbed wire. We were warned not to venture out in dark.

The Salad Pullao 

We brought some raw rice from our village Badbar and Harvinder cooked a fantastic 'Salad Pullao' with cauliflower, Tomato and Onion with the help of Microwave oven. A near by vegetable vendor had fresh farm produce and it was a delight to cook fresh home like food while away from home.

Hot lunch at the bank of the river

When sprinkled with Kachoomer salad, the dish came out to be out of this world and eating on the bank of Kosi proved to be an icing on the cake. The cauliflower could not be cooked to that level as we normally do but the crunchy product was awesome.

Lush green all around 

The lush landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and the constant possibility of encountering iconic wildlife make Jim Corbett National Park a destination etched in the memories of those who seek the untamed beauty of the natural world. Though the elusive tiger remained hidden during our safari, the journey itself became a story, a part of the ever-evolving narrative of the wild.

Geet practices music ‘Riyaas’

Learning meditation is perfect for Gurbani music

For a 9-year-old interested in Gurbani music, Geet  started with introducing basic concepts like Shabads, Raags, and Taals. 

A very young Geet trying to synch with Dad

Encourage herself listening to Gurbani Kirtan to develop an ear for melody and rhythm, she began with simple Shabads and gradually progressed to more complex ones. To integrate vocal exercises for pitch and rhythm, Geet worked hard to achieve some level. 

Getting first hand lesson from Dad

Fortunately she has a qualified and renowned Guru in her Dad Shivpreet Singh for personalized guidance. To remember, consistent and patient practice is key to development and rise in this field. 

Geet doing her Riyaas with her virtual audience.

Unlike Hindustani classical, Gurbani music has a more spiritual focus, fostering a connection with the divine through music.

Trip to Badbar in 2015

As you stroll through the vibrant mustard and wheat fields in Badbar, the lush greenery surrounds you, creating a picturesque scene. The golden hues of the wheat complement the vivid yellow of the mustard plants, swaying gently in the breeze. The rustling sound of the crops harmonizes with the chirping of birds, forming a soothing melody.

The earth beneath your feet feels slightly damp, evidence of the morning dew that adds a refreshing touch to the air. The fragrance of blooming wildflowers mingles with the earthy scent of the fields, creating a sensory experience that connects you to nature.

As you walk deeper into the fields, you might notice farmers tending to their crops, embodying the timeless rhythm of rural life. The vast expanse of greenery extends as far as the eye can see, interrupted only by occasional trees and the distant outline of the village.

In this serene setting, the simplicity and beauty of rural living come to life, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Each step you take is a journey through the heart of Badbar, where the connection between the land and its people is evident in every blade of grass and every ear of wheat.

Walk in the Field in the Mustard and Wheat fields

Breakfast in Train

Lunch in Deepak Dhaba

Father-Daughter Dance

A father-daughter dance is a heartwarming tradition often observed at weddings or special events. Jania being trained in the Dancing Acadamy in Feb 2012 had also to participate along with her Dad. So Shivpreet also got trained for this duo dance. The result was fantastic when with more equally talented pairs did a superb job.

Ready before leaving for the Dance Acadamy.

It symbolizes the bond between a father and his daughter, creating a memorable and emotional moment as they share a dance together, often to a meaningful song. 

Jania super excited for the great event

The dance is a beautiful way to celebrate the love and connection between a father and his daughter on a significant day.

Shivpreet Advise to Newely Weds

Believe in ‘Ek Onkar’ (God is one) roars Shivpreet Singh

Shivpreet was requested to draw upon teachings from Guru Granth Sahib, the central religious scripture of Sikhism, to offer advice to newlyweds. 

Shivpreet presenting quotes from Sri Guru Granth Sahib

Sikhism emphasizes values like equality, mutual respect, and devotion. His speech included guidance on building a strong partnership, practicing selfless service, and fostering a spiritual connection within the marriage. 

Additionally, he also highlighted the importance of honesty, compassion, tollerance, and sweet conversation support in creating a harmonious family life, aligning with Sikh principles.

Milni Of Families

Groom side

Bride side

Harvinder and Mrs Anand

Anand Karaj

Lawan Shabads being recieted from Sri. Guru Granth Sahib

The couple performing ‘Pheras’

Prof Dr Darshan Singh 

Prof Dr Darshan Singh, a former Akal Takhat Jathedar happened to attend the ‘Anand Karaj’ as he was closely related to the groom side.

Langar

Friends at the dinner table


Gents flocking together after sumptuous food

Congratulations to Surinder Chawla and Gurdeep Chawla on the wedding of their doll Harlyn Kaur to Dr Bir Partap Singh

A Canvas Holdall Sleeping Bag

Conventional Canvas Holdall Sleeping Bag.

I still remember vividly that whenever my parents and we children travelled we had a Holdall Bistar-Band. My Papa ji would meticoulsly pack up every thing we needed on the trip. I also remember my trips to Delhi, Shimla and Haridwar carrying the same besides other goods. On my first outing away from home to a hostel in Chandigarh in 1961, I was accompanied with a Suitcase and a Holdall. So did all my fellow students.

It was laid down on the floor before packing up our goods in every corner.

A canvas holdall sleeping bag is a versatile accessory that combines a durable canvas bag with a sleeping bag. The canvas holdall designed for outdoor use, offers insulation and comfort for camping or other outdoor activities. This dual-functionality makes it a practical and compact solution for those who want a combined storage and sleeping solution for their adventures.

It was also common to use the services of a coolie for help. 

Indeed, in the past, a canvas holdall was a common travel companion, especially during times when hotels were scarce or unavailable. People would carry their essential belongings in the holdall, providing a portable and self-contained solution for temporary stays away from home. 

Common Practice to carry own Bedding.

A century ago, this practice allowed individuals and families to have their own familiar items, including bedding. This created a sense of comfort during travels. It reflects a simpler and more self-reliant approach to accommodation when on the road.

In a wedding invite in 1921, guests are being requested to bring their own bedding. The above is a copy of the original invite in Gurmukhi

It's interesting to note from above invite that in the past, wedding invitations sometimes included a request for guests to bring their own bedding when attending various celebratory functions. It reflects a time when hospitality was a shared responsibility, and guests were encouraged to contribute to their own comfort during festive occasions.

Military Use.

The military's frequent deployments and assignments to diverse locations often lead to the need for self-contained living arrangements. 

Carrying personal bedding, including sleeping bags or compact bedding solutions, becomes a practical approach to ensure comfort and familiarity in various environments. This self-sufficiency aligns with the demands of military life, allowing personnel to adapt to different conditions during their service.

Holdall sleeping bag converts to Backpack.

Multifunctional backpack 

Modern military backpacks often serve as multifunctional gear, combining elements of a traditional holdall with tactical features. These backpacks are designed to carry not only personal belongings and bedding but also essential equipment, including ammunition, for military personnel. The integration of various compartments and tactical elements enhances their utility, providing soldiers with a comprehensive and efficient solution for their diverse needs during deployments and missions.

Kids Learning Water Colors

An artist in me is always eager to impart training to our grandkids thus passing down artistic skills and create lasting memories. Teaching Gobind and Jania watercolors offers numerous benefits. Beyond artistic skills, it promotes patience, concentration, and fine motor skills. The process teaches them to embrace mistakes as part of learning, fostering resilience. 

Gobind, in Feb 2012, learning to use colors

Additionally, sharing their creations encourages self-expression and boosts confidence, while collaborative art activities promote teamwork and social skills. Overall, the experience instills in them creativity and valuable life skills.

Working together but on their own sheet by sharing the supplies

Moreover, sharing art supplies promotes generosity and a sense of community. I am sure Gobind and Jania would gain empathy by understanding different perspectives through creative expression. Dealing with imperfections in their artwork teaches resilience and the importance of perseverance. It would also lay the foundation for facing challenges in life with a positive attitude. 

Jania joining hands with Sibling reflects mutual love and understanding.

Ultimately, the journey of learning watercolors becomes a canvas for moral growth and character development. The joy of creating art together can inspire their imagination, encourage self-expression, and instill a lifelong appreciation for the arts. 

Enjoy the artistic journey with your grandkids!

Orange ‘Rossgullas’ from our Orange tree

Our Orange Tree laden with fruits as it stands today when 40 % of its produce has already been consumed.

This year, our Orange tree has graced us with an abundant harvest, a veritable cornucopia that has delighted our senses for the past two months. 

Freshly picked oranges

Not only have we relished these succulent fruits ourselves, but we've also shared the bounty by sending packages to friends. 

Ready for the Neighbors

One particularly heartwarming gesture involved delivering a basket teeming with freshly picked oranges to a gathering of a ladies' group immersed in the serenity of a Sukhmani Sahib path.

For ‘Sukhmani Sahib Path’ group

The host, radiating graciousness, expressed her gratitude repeatedly as she distributed the vibrant oranges to each member of the gathering with meticulous care. Their collective joy mirrored the vibrant hues of the citrus gems they held in their hands.

Orange Rossgullas

In my own indulgence, I've discovered a unique pleasure in savoring these small-sized, seedless oranges – akin to relishing Rossgullas. With each bite, the burst of citrusy essence delights my palate, and the absence of seeds adds an extra layer of enjoyment, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the exquisite juice within.

Geet trying the juicy fruit at one go.

Encouraging my delightful granddaughter, Geet, to partake in the joy of my orange Rossgullas was a moment of sheer delight. Witnessing her gleeful indulgence as she gracefully gulped down the juicy orange in a single, uninhibited moment was truly heartwarming. In the spirit of cherishing the joyous occasion, Shiv adeptly captured the moment, turning it into a fantastic event that resonated with everyone present.

I am confident that this novel concept of an orange Rossgullas will not only linger in the memories of those who experienced it but will also spark the curiosity of others, paving the way for a delightful new approach to relishing the goodness of an orange.

Sardarni Harvinder’s Guava Garden

Guava plants growing healthy in our farms

During our visit to our farms couple of years back in Badbar, Punjab, Sardarni Harvinder Kaur's keen instincts for plants led to a desire for Guava plants. We ordered 20 saplings planted along the way to our tube well on the 'Maru' parcel of lands. On our recent visit, Harvinder eagerly inquired about the Guava plants, and to our delight, we discovered thriving and well-aligned Guava plants near the tube well—a virtual miracle from the initial conceptualization to their flourishing reality.

Guava plants, known for their versatility, offer various benefits beyond their delicious fruits. For diabetic patients, guavas are particularly advantageous due to their low glycemic index and high fiber content. The fruit helps regulate blood sugar levels, making it a suitable addition to a diabetic-friendly diet.

Not only are guavas rich in dietary fiber, aiding digestion and preventing blood sugar spikes, but they also contain essential vitamins and minerals. Vitamin C, present abundantly in guavas, contributes to overall immune system health and may assist in managing diabetes-related complications.

Beyond health benefits, guava plants contribute to sustainable farming practices. They are hardy, drought-resistant, and require minimal pesticides, making them environmentally friendly. The fruit's nutritional value, coupled with its resilience, makes guava a valuable addition to both dietary and agricultural landscapes, especially for those with diabetes seeking a nutritious and diabetes-friendly option.

In essence, Sardarni Harvinder Kaur’s vision and dedication have not only nurtured the land but have also sown the seeds of sustainable prosperity for our inherited assets, creating a lasting legacy that harmonizes with both nature and family development.

The Guava plants are young, thriving and healthy, but we have yet to get a first fruit from them.

Muriel Anderson visits us

Muriel Anderson is a renowned American guitarist known for her fingerstyle and classical guitar skills. 

Her double-album, "Nightlight Daylight," is a remarkable achievement, having earned recognition with eleven national and international awards. This accomplishment speaks volumes about the exceptional quality and appeal of her musical work. 

Muriel Anderson

Collaborating with Shivpreet in a Jugal Bandi session has been an incredible musical experience. Shivpreet's earlier recordings with Muriel, in high demand online, showcase their exceptional musical synergy. 

Muriel doing a live session in the family room.

A surprise and pleasant visit to our home by Muriel Anderson and her Friend Photographer Brian Allen on Feb1, 2020

Enjoying delicious home made cooked by Harvinder

Muriel Anderson, as per the Chicago Tribune, “is one of the World’s best and most versatile Guitar Instrumentalists.”

An Icon pic executed expertly by Brian Allen who insisted to offer his dexterity.

Muriel Anderson and Shivpreet have seamlessly blended Western and Hindustani music in their fusion compositions, creating a unique and captivating musical experience. Their collaboration often features intricate guitar work by Muriel, influenced by Western styles, harmoniously interwoven with Shivpreet's expertise in Gurbani classical music, including elements like ragas and intricate tabla rhythms.

Unplanned Meditation

Their fusion compositions showcase a harmonious marriage of two diverse musical traditions, exploring the rich tapestry of emotions and textures found in both Western and Hindustani Classical music. 

“This is a free improv together with Shivpreet Singh. It is a true coming together of diverse cultures. I hear the kindness in his voice as he sings a Mool Mantra meditation, and reflect that feeling on my harp-guitar, beginning and ending the music with a slight musical nod to his Indian heritage.” Muriel Anderson

Jugalbandi in progress

This blending of genres not only demonstrates their technical prowess but also highlights the universal language of music that transcends cultural boundaries. The result is a captivating fusion that resonates with audiences, offering a delightful journey through the best of both musical worlds.