Yesterdays Bandh

A bandh is a general strike. In this case it was called by the Tamil Nadu ruling party (DMK). It is supposedly in support of the Tamil people of Sri Lanka who are currently suffering greatly in being caught in the war between the SL government and the LTTE (Tamil Tigers). Unfortunately it is more likely a political stunt to try and get support during the current general election campaign.

Anyway if a bandh is called by the ruling party they have the power to stop public transport etc and all shops/businesses shut. Most companies decided to shut as there are often paid goons who patrol the streets "enforcing" the strike. However in Chennai city this is less common. My employer decided to stay open and I had no problems going to work.

Large companies such as Infosys and CTS decided to shut, although they have told their employees to go to work on Saturday instead. (Not many enforcable employment rights here!!). I was a bit nervous as to what might happen, especially when you hear stories of what goes on during bandh's in neighbouring Kerala. There, nobody ventures outside during a bandh for fear of intimidation and violence.

Singing in the summer heat

I'm on my own again. Wife and kids have gone to Kerala for the Summer Holidays. School holidays are from April to June here.

I have to say though that I have definitely acclimatised to a hot climate now. I definitely struggled last year with the heat, not going out during the day on weekends etc. I guess this year at least I have a car (which I only bought in June last year) which means I can travel in comfort.

The other news is that I'm now taking Karnatic singing lessons. I originally started because my daughter was learning and I thought I could help her practice. I am enjoying it as well. I never really understood the theory behind Karnatik music and I definitely have a lot to learn.

Matthias Rath is just evil...

http://www.badscience.net/2009/04/matthias-rath-steal-this-chapter/

Techy Blog

Just to let you know, I'm starting another blog. "But you never update this one!" I hear you all cry...

Well the blog is going to be about my attempt to pass the CISSP exam. I aim to use it to help me pass the exam by making notes on the subjects I'm studying, and also to maybe help others who are looking to take the same path later on.

Anyway I've been wanting to update this blog for a while and now I have, hopefully this will be the start of a gush of posts!!

The new blog is at Passing The CISSP?

Trip to Kerala

Had a bit of a hectic first week. My wife had some work in Mahe. Went for an inauguration ceremony of the company with the Pondicherry Home minister invited as VIP guest! Brought along his little(!?) entourage as well who all had to give a little speech!

Same day back to Palakkad, then the following day was my wife's cousin's engagement ceremony in Thrissur. Directly from there the whole family went to Mahe again as there was still more work to do. We stayed in a fantastic hotel, which was more like an old imperial house with only 6 rooms. They make you feel as if you are guests in their home. Everything is included including 3 meals per day and the owner is a top class chef as well. The balcony overlooks the sea and there are stunning sunset views.

Went to the fort in Thalassery as well as the only driving beach in India. There we also learnt how to dig for clams! Apparently the beach is full of people collecting them in the morning to have for breakfast.

Overall, the hotel was fantastic, and we had a great time relaxing in the outdoor pool. There isn't that much to do around Mahe and Thalassery though, so next time we plan to go to Kannoor as well.

Trip to London

I have just been to London for a week for work. Apart from the weather being a bit cold and miserable, it was nice to be back. I met quite a lot of friends too.

I guess after a week back I should make some comparisons.

I found it a bit strange driving at first, not having to overtake at all. Getting up in the morning and using milk straight out of the bottle instead of having to boil it is easier. Commuting to work took a bit longer, but at least I could read a book on the tube. But the biggest difference was that work seemed a lot more relaxed than in India.

Holiday booking

I've booked my holidays for the year. Going to Kerala during my daughters school holidays at the end of September until October 10th. It should be cooler at that time at least.

Also going to London for my brother's wedding at the end of November.