The last two months zoomed by, fast and furious, as I shuffled between OC and MBU, carrying out experiments from milligrams in one lab to micrograms scale in the other.
Experiments after experiments, workups after workups, columns after columns. The cycle gets repeated every other day in OC: set up new experiment, quench and workup, purification, isolation and characterization of product.
Unsuccessful reactions and repeated attempts. Exploration of other synthetic pathways, alternative approaches and strategies. Three different projects running at the same time. When one gets held up, we shift gear immediately and work on the other ones.
Other than what I learnt in science classes during my primary school education, I come from an almost zero biology background. My one and only formal course in biology was BP101 on fundamental plant biology in the university, which I scored a ‘C’ grade.
Once again, I had to start from ground zero in MBU. Instead of round bottomed flasks, experiments were done in micro centrifuge tubes. Instead of glass syringes and stainless steel needles, micro pipettes and micro tips of different size ranges were used. Where we always take extra care and precaution to keep moisture out of the experiment environment, aqueous solutions are used predominantly as the reaction medium here.
A little more confusing were the calculations which were done in terms of concentration instead of stoichiometric equivalents. Then there are the different reagents, buffers and stock solutions to prepare, dilutions and more dilutions. Mass spectrometry, UV absorption tests, HPLC and gel electrophoresis are but just some of the many techniques that were used for monitoring reaction progress which I had to master quickly.
Gel electrophoresis is something totally new to me. It took me one whole day to cast the gel for my first gel electrophoresis experiment. Now I do it in about 1.5 hours. The first few gels broke into a few pieces when I tried to take them off the casting plates. Now I can make them slide easily into the container where staining and de-staining of the gel will be carried out next.
Re-training for the various instruments had to be done as the systems and software were different from what I had used before. New methods had to be developed for the HPLC analyses. Absorption wavelengths had to be determined for the compounds synthesized. Coupling studies to be carried out.
There is still more to be done.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Sunday, December 21, 2008
.......
I have not been able to find any inspirations for writing. Despite the myriad thoughts bouncing around in my mind, keeping me awake many of the nights, they would evaporate like water dropping onto a sizzling pan the moment I try to capture them. Each time I open the word file, we stared at one another blankly …
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Disparity
A leisurely walk on a Sunday afternoon through Matikere painted yet another shade of this vibrant city.
Dusty unpaved roads, littered with cow dung and trash. Low concrete walls of contrasting colours, wooden doors that peeped into small dark spaces. Pots cooking over makeshift fire stoves, burnt smell of wood filled the air. Little children play on the streets, barefooted, pushing a used car tyre around with a stick. The older ones, slightly over seven years old, washed, cooked or worked. The folks gave puzzled and curious looks at this stranger walking through the lanes of their neighbourhood.
Families, some as big as 7, lived behind those wooden doors. In their little enclosure, a tiny 4-walled space no bigger than the bathrooms belonging to some of the houses in the neighbouring estate, they carry out their daily activities.
On the other side of the road, it’s a totally different picture. Big multi-storey houses, marble floors and roof terraces. Solar panels, UPS and wireless internet connection. Security guards on sentry outside the house 24 hours, personal drivers and maids, and whose folks fly first class.
Distinct is the disparity between the rich and poor.
Dusty unpaved roads, littered with cow dung and trash. Low concrete walls of contrasting colours, wooden doors that peeped into small dark spaces. Pots cooking over makeshift fire stoves, burnt smell of wood filled the air. Little children play on the streets, barefooted, pushing a used car tyre around with a stick. The older ones, slightly over seven years old, washed, cooked or worked. The folks gave puzzled and curious looks at this stranger walking through the lanes of their neighbourhood.
Families, some as big as 7, lived behind those wooden doors. In their little enclosure, a tiny 4-walled space no bigger than the bathrooms belonging to some of the houses in the neighbouring estate, they carry out their daily activities.
On the other side of the road, it’s a totally different picture. Big multi-storey houses, marble floors and roof terraces. Solar panels, UPS and wireless internet connection. Security guards on sentry outside the house 24 hours, personal drivers and maids, and whose folks fly first class.
Distinct is the disparity between the rich and poor.
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Bad Week
It has been a lousy week.
First, purification of a reaction mixture by flash column chromatography took almost 12 hours. Well, it’s called “flash” chromatography not for no good reason. The process is supposed to be fast, like in a flash, not 12 hours. The previous time it took about a couple of hours. Somehow, this time round the compounds started eluting from the column only at a very high polarity solvent system.
Then just when I see some light at the end of the tunnel, I ran out of solvents. I had to decide to use the remaining solvents at ultra high polarity but risk flushing out the compounds together and put my day’s efforts to waste, or continue with the current solvent system and risk losing my compounds. It’s a matter of which is the lesser of the evils. Life seems to enjoy giving us situations like this.
Failed experiments. NMR showed no traces of the desired product for one set of experiments. I have repeated this experiment many times using different reaction conditions and still nothing works. As much as they say research is 99% failure most of the time, I am still, but a human being, and failures after failures are not very motivating.
For no good reason, I tripped and fell, on a path that I take everyday going to lunch. Tore my pants, had a bad bruise on my thigh and bleeding from an open wound on my knee. Sigh, I don’t like knee injuries. They take forever to heal and they leave bad scars…
First, purification of a reaction mixture by flash column chromatography took almost 12 hours. Well, it’s called “flash” chromatography not for no good reason. The process is supposed to be fast, like in a flash, not 12 hours. The previous time it took about a couple of hours. Somehow, this time round the compounds started eluting from the column only at a very high polarity solvent system.
Then just when I see some light at the end of the tunnel, I ran out of solvents. I had to decide to use the remaining solvents at ultra high polarity but risk flushing out the compounds together and put my day’s efforts to waste, or continue with the current solvent system and risk losing my compounds. It’s a matter of which is the lesser of the evils. Life seems to enjoy giving us situations like this.
Failed experiments. NMR showed no traces of the desired product for one set of experiments. I have repeated this experiment many times using different reaction conditions and still nothing works. As much as they say research is 99% failure most of the time, I am still, but a human being, and failures after failures are not very motivating.
For no good reason, I tripped and fell, on a path that I take everyday going to lunch. Tore my pants, had a bad bruise on my thigh and bleeding from an open wound on my knee. Sigh, I don’t like knee injuries. They take forever to heal and they leave bad scars…
Monday, November 3, 2008
Candlelight Dinner
Crescent moon in a clear starry sky. I thought the stars looked extra bright tonight. In the darkness of the streets, they sparkle like diamonds in the sky.
Soon I came to realize that even the houses are not lighted up. It’s a blackout, a scheduled power shutdown. It was pitch dark as I went up to my room. Paramjeet lighted some candles and brought in a battery operated lamp.
In darkness, I had my shower in refreshing cold water, followed by dinner by the candle light. What a romantic evening…
Soon I came to realize that even the houses are not lighted up. It’s a blackout, a scheduled power shutdown. It was pitch dark as I went up to my room. Paramjeet lighted some candles and brought in a battery operated lamp.
In darkness, I had my shower in refreshing cold water, followed by dinner by the candle light. What a romantic evening…
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Paramjeet’s Special
It was a rare occasion, the whole family was away to attend a wedding, the maid went back to her hometown for vacation and the only persons left in the house were the guest from Singapore and the caretaker.
Wanted to bring Paramjeet out for a special dinner, since “Madam” and whole family is away to attend wedding in Mysore. With my little bit of Hindi plus alot of non-verbal language, he somehow managed to understand my intentions. He went into his room and came out 5 minutes later, all nicely dressed up. On the way, we dropped by the laundry shop. Since he only knew Hindi, he kept replying me in Hindi when I tried to talk to him in half-Hindi-half-English. Strangely enough, despite that, we somehow managed to understand one another.
He stopped just before we reached the restaurant. Then he told me he’s not eating as he already had his food and will wait below for me. I was totally confused. He kept asking me to go ahead, I insisted he come. He insisted he is full and not eating, I kept asking him to come along. I told if he doesn't like Chinese food, we can always go to the Indian restaurant down the road. This went on below the restaurant for at least 10 minutes.
By then, I don't feel like eating anymore. Furthermore, I don't want to eat in the restaurant alone. So I told him we shall head for home. We left the place but he led me into the neighbourhood, stopped by a couple of stores where he bought some stuffs. “Food for dinner”, he told. On reaching home, he swiftly cooked up a dish and made some roti. As he served dinner, he told me not to let “Madam” know as he drew his finger across his throat.
Paramjeet’s special tonight was chicken curry.
Wanted to bring Paramjeet out for a special dinner, since “Madam” and whole family is away to attend wedding in Mysore. With my little bit of Hindi plus alot of non-verbal language, he somehow managed to understand my intentions. He went into his room and came out 5 minutes later, all nicely dressed up. On the way, we dropped by the laundry shop. Since he only knew Hindi, he kept replying me in Hindi when I tried to talk to him in half-Hindi-half-English. Strangely enough, despite that, we somehow managed to understand one another.
He stopped just before we reached the restaurant. Then he told me he’s not eating as he already had his food and will wait below for me. I was totally confused. He kept asking me to go ahead, I insisted he come. He insisted he is full and not eating, I kept asking him to come along. I told if he doesn't like Chinese food, we can always go to the Indian restaurant down the road. This went on below the restaurant for at least 10 minutes.
By then, I don't feel like eating anymore. Furthermore, I don't want to eat in the restaurant alone. So I told him we shall head for home. We left the place but he led me into the neighbourhood, stopped by a couple of stores where he bought some stuffs. “Food for dinner”, he told. On reaching home, he swiftly cooked up a dish and made some roti. As he served dinner, he told me not to let “Madam” know as he drew his finger across his throat.
Paramjeet’s special tonight was chicken curry.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Alarm
A friend, worried about my safety here, sent me a personal alarm. “Small, light, nice iPod colour, it was branded too, with a name of an organization synonymous with safety”, so my friend told me, “though it is small, it makes a big sound.” The alarm came in the mail today, nicely packaged in a bubble envelope. I brought it home, eager to test it out in my room which I discovered has quite a sound proof door.
There was a warning in bold on the packaging that says, "High frequency siren may cause ear damage at close proximity". The device looked very simple, there was no on/off switch or buttons that I need to press, only an activation pin with an attached chord. Putting the device as far away as my arms can extend, I braced myself for a loud and sharp sound, and pulled the attached chord.
Silence.
I placed the device closer to my ear and there was a ticking sound. Thinking that there could be some time lag before activation, I waited for a while.
Silence.
I plugged the pin in and pull it out again. This time there was no ticking sound. I tried a couple more times.
Silence.
Oops.. My friend will be fuming mad over this. Having gone through all the efforts to get the device and going to the shop twice to ensure that it was working properly before sending it over to me, now this little device had decided to go all quiet.
Perhaps it could not withstand the long journey, perhaps I should open it up an take a look at the inside, perhaps I could fix it?
There was a warning in bold on the packaging that says, "High frequency siren may cause ear damage at close proximity". The device looked very simple, there was no on/off switch or buttons that I need to press, only an activation pin with an attached chord. Putting the device as far away as my arms can extend, I braced myself for a loud and sharp sound, and pulled the attached chord.
Silence.
I placed the device closer to my ear and there was a ticking sound. Thinking that there could be some time lag before activation, I waited for a while.
Silence.
I plugged the pin in and pull it out again. This time there was no ticking sound. I tried a couple more times.
Silence.
Oops.. My friend will be fuming mad over this. Having gone through all the efforts to get the device and going to the shop twice to ensure that it was working properly before sending it over to me, now this little device had decided to go all quiet.
Perhaps it could not withstand the long journey, perhaps I should open it up an take a look at the inside, perhaps I could fix it?
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Leftovers
Options for breakfast were dosa and bread toast. After a week of bread toast as the other guest couple will not have any other food for breakfast, I was happy to have dosa for a change. I missed Ranjit’s thin and crispy dosa along with freshly prepared coconut chutney…
Thick, wet and oily, the dosa was a disappointment. It was served with potato curry heated up in the microwave oven, which looked exactly like what I had for Sunday’s dinner! I asked for coconut chutney which never came. Eventually, I switched to bread toast after having one serving of the dosa.
The day was as unfruitful as my breakfast.
All day was spent performing analyses of the compound which I had synthesized on the HPLC instrument. Many peaks shown up on the spectra when only one peak was expected. That spelled bad news. The compound could have decomposed.
The other reaction that I carried out also did not give any positive results. More modifications to the reaction conditions and trials would be required.
Had an expensive bus ride home, as I found out, the red air-conditioned buses would cost me Rs10.00 for a trip back home from the institute!
I would next discover, in the freezer compartment, were cut fruits leftover from morning’s breakfast by the other guests…
Thick, wet and oily, the dosa was a disappointment. It was served with potato curry heated up in the microwave oven, which looked exactly like what I had for Sunday’s dinner! I asked for coconut chutney which never came. Eventually, I switched to bread toast after having one serving of the dosa.
The day was as unfruitful as my breakfast.
All day was spent performing analyses of the compound which I had synthesized on the HPLC instrument. Many peaks shown up on the spectra when only one peak was expected. That spelled bad news. The compound could have decomposed.
The other reaction that I carried out also did not give any positive results. More modifications to the reaction conditions and trials would be required.
Had an expensive bus ride home, as I found out, the red air-conditioned buses would cost me Rs10.00 for a trip back home from the institute!
I would next discover, in the freezer compartment, were cut fruits leftover from morning’s breakfast by the other guests…
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Crackers
Once again, I was woken up by the sound of crackers which is into it’s third day for the Diwali celebrations. Folks were already setting them off at 6.00am and it continued all day long. In fact, I’m not sure if they stopped at all, ‘cos it was still going on when I went to bed the previous night!
So accustomed to not being able to set off crackers back home, it was the professor who reminded me that I could and should try it while I am here! We went to his place after work, where we set off “flower pots”, “rockets”, “spinning wheels” and the usual red crackers.
I did not have enough of the crackers. On my way home, I stopped by the festive bazaar across the road and bought some more crackers. They were not expensive at all. For Rs450, I got a box of sparklers, a packet of rockets and another type of crackers. This, as the stall owner told me, will shoot 60 meters into the sky before it bursts into beautiful patterns of glitters. Yes, fireworks!
Unable to contain my excitement any longer, I happily ran back home where I showed Paramjeet my “shopping”. For the first time, I saw him smile. He promptly switched off the television, took a box of matches and off to the rooftop we went.
Skillfully and effortlessly, he set up the cracker, lighted a match and passed me the fiery red sparkler. The rockets let off a massive trail of fire as they zoomed into the sky and bursting into a little green light that lingers in the air before they quietly disappear. We saved the best for the last.
Cylindrical in shape, these power-packed crackers looked innocently harmless. Heart beating faster, I lighted the fuse near the bottom of the cracker and quickly ran aside. Following a loud bang, the sky lighted up in shimmering green and yellow showers that fades into the night as they gently falls… I stood and looked in awe of the beautiful fireworks, my very first…
We lighted the remaining sparklers and Paramjeet set off the second and last cracker. We stayed on the rooftop for a while more to enjoy the display of fireworks coming in all directions from other households.
I have also learnt that one should not stand in between the cracker and the wall after lighting it, unless you want to have remains of gunpower all over you…
So accustomed to not being able to set off crackers back home, it was the professor who reminded me that I could and should try it while I am here! We went to his place after work, where we set off “flower pots”, “rockets”, “spinning wheels” and the usual red crackers.
I did not have enough of the crackers. On my way home, I stopped by the festive bazaar across the road and bought some more crackers. They were not expensive at all. For Rs450, I got a box of sparklers, a packet of rockets and another type of crackers. This, as the stall owner told me, will shoot 60 meters into the sky before it bursts into beautiful patterns of glitters. Yes, fireworks!
Unable to contain my excitement any longer, I happily ran back home where I showed Paramjeet my “shopping”. For the first time, I saw him smile. He promptly switched off the television, took a box of matches and off to the rooftop we went.
Skillfully and effortlessly, he set up the cracker, lighted a match and passed me the fiery red sparkler. The rockets let off a massive trail of fire as they zoomed into the sky and bursting into a little green light that lingers in the air before they quietly disappear. We saved the best for the last.
Cylindrical in shape, these power-packed crackers looked innocently harmless. Heart beating faster, I lighted the fuse near the bottom of the cracker and quickly ran aside. Following a loud bang, the sky lighted up in shimmering green and yellow showers that fades into the night as they gently falls… I stood and looked in awe of the beautiful fireworks, my very first…
We lighted the remaining sparklers and Paramjeet set off the second and last cracker. We stayed on the rooftop for a while more to enjoy the display of fireworks coming in all directions from other households.
I have also learnt that one should not stand in between the cracker and the wall after lighting it, unless you want to have remains of gunpower all over you…
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Rhythmica
The morning was peaceful after a night’s of explosions. Smell of crackers still lingers in the air which had started to turn a little chilly. Cleaners sweeping away scattered bits of paper which once contained gunpowder. Not yet settled was the dust, reflecting shimmering rays of the rising sun, giving a misty and drowsy feel to the quiet dawn.
The kitchen was unusually still. The TV for once was not switched on. Other than empty tea cups and glasses lying around on the table, there were no signs of activity that indicate breakfast. Paranjeet was nowhere to be seen. In the fridge was some butter and a loaf of bread. Breakfast today was Milo and toast.
There was a string of special events in the institute in conjunction with Diwali celebrations. First, Monday’s dinner in the mess was served over candle lights. Then there was Rhythmica, followed by DJ Night this evening in the sports hall. In between, there was even a short cracker show at the field beside.
Rhythmica showcased a selection of popular Hindi and Kanada songs and classics, movie soundtracks, and traditional, as well as rock music pieces, along with live band accompaniment. It was a display of the students’ vocals and musical talents, an evening of delightful melodies and a highly charged crowd.
Gave DJ Night a miss and left shortly after the cracker show as it was getting late. It was to be another half an hour before the bus came.
Standing in the shadows of the night, the cool air refreshed the senses. Sounds of crackers drowned the noisy traffic while fireworks lighted up the smoky sky. Somehow, such long waits for the light blue and white buses had been very reflective or inspirational…
“炮竹烟火连连，夜空光辉阵阵，晚风冰凉轻轻…”
The kitchen was unusually still. The TV for once was not switched on. Other than empty tea cups and glasses lying around on the table, there were no signs of activity that indicate breakfast. Paranjeet was nowhere to be seen. In the fridge was some butter and a loaf of bread. Breakfast today was Milo and toast.
There was a string of special events in the institute in conjunction with Diwali celebrations. First, Monday’s dinner in the mess was served over candle lights. Then there was Rhythmica, followed by DJ Night this evening in the sports hall. In between, there was even a short cracker show at the field beside.
Rhythmica showcased a selection of popular Hindi and Kanada songs and classics, movie soundtracks, and traditional, as well as rock music pieces, along with live band accompaniment. It was a display of the students’ vocals and musical talents, an evening of delightful melodies and a highly charged crowd.
Gave DJ Night a miss and left shortly after the cracker show as it was getting late. It was to be another half an hour before the bus came.
Standing in the shadows of the night, the cool air refreshed the senses. Sounds of crackers drowned the noisy traffic while fireworks lighted up the smoky sky. Somehow, such long waits for the light blue and white buses had been very reflective or inspirational…
“炮竹烟火连连，夜空光辉阵阵，晚风冰凉轻轻…”
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Mansukh & Sarla
An elderly couple of Indian origin, born in Africa and residing in Canada, checked into the service apartment last evening. He is Mansukh and she is Sarla, the “handsome and beautiful couple from Vancouver” as they would described themselves. A chatty and funny couple, they were here to attend a wedding in another state and dropped by Bangalore for a week to visit a friend.
I met them when I came back from my morning run. Over breakfast, they asked me a whole lot of questions, like how much are my room charges and whether breakfast comes with the room, where the nearest Citibank ATM is, how to go to MG Road and transportation costs, etc. I shared with them whatever local knowledge I know and gave them an overview of their location and the places they wanted to go.
Naturally, I became their tour guide for today. There’s a Citibank one bus-stop down from our place so we took a leisurely stroll there as they wanted to withdraw some cash. Next, we stopped by the textile shop to get some dress materials, followed by a trip to FabIndia, the new outlet on New BEL Road, where Sarla and I both bought a kurta. From there we adjourned, as they had to be back by 12.30pm for their friend was going to bring them out for lunch.
My original plans for this Sunday were to check out the new FabIndia outlet and spend the afternoon at Barista. I brought them back to service apartment and I set off again. To Barista, since we had been to FabIndia earlier.
Barista, an Italian coffee joint, lies along the road where I pass by everyday to and fro work. In an alfresco seating of white plastic tables with blue chairs under big orange umbrellas in a garden, I sat down to enjoy my lunch of chicken masala wrap and a cup of cappuccino, with the accompaniment of my book, and the sound of traffic in the background, of course…
Mansukh and Sarla came back from their outing in the evening and knocked on my door. It turned out that Paramjeet was not around and they couldn’t get into their room. I knew where the keys were kept, so I opened the door for them. They jokingly said that I could work part-time at the service apartment! They invited me into their room where we chatted a little more. They shared with me bits and pieces of their life stories and even asked me to visit them in Vancouver when I get the chance.
A lovely and loving couple…
Glossary:
Kurta – A traditional top that can be worn with jeans.
FabIndia – A retail chain selling traditional and modern ethnic wear, organic products and household items.
Paramjeet – Ranjit’s replacement
I met them when I came back from my morning run. Over breakfast, they asked me a whole lot of questions, like how much are my room charges and whether breakfast comes with the room, where the nearest Citibank ATM is, how to go to MG Road and transportation costs, etc. I shared with them whatever local knowledge I know and gave them an overview of their location and the places they wanted to go.
Naturally, I became their tour guide for today. There’s a Citibank one bus-stop down from our place so we took a leisurely stroll there as they wanted to withdraw some cash. Next, we stopped by the textile shop to get some dress materials, followed by a trip to FabIndia, the new outlet on New BEL Road, where Sarla and I both bought a kurta. From there we adjourned, as they had to be back by 12.30pm for their friend was going to bring them out for lunch.
My original plans for this Sunday were to check out the new FabIndia outlet and spend the afternoon at Barista. I brought them back to service apartment and I set off again. To Barista, since we had been to FabIndia earlier.
Barista, an Italian coffee joint, lies along the road where I pass by everyday to and fro work. In an alfresco seating of white plastic tables with blue chairs under big orange umbrellas in a garden, I sat down to enjoy my lunch of chicken masala wrap and a cup of cappuccino, with the accompaniment of my book, and the sound of traffic in the background, of course…
Mansukh and Sarla came back from their outing in the evening and knocked on my door. It turned out that Paramjeet was not around and they couldn’t get into their room. I knew where the keys were kept, so I opened the door for them. They jokingly said that I could work part-time at the service apartment! They invited me into their room where we chatted a little more. They shared with me bits and pieces of their life stories and even asked me to visit them in Vancouver when I get the chance.
A lovely and loving couple…
Glossary:
Kurta – A traditional top that can be worn with jeans.
FabIndia – A retail chain selling traditional and modern ethnic wear, organic products and household items.
Paramjeet – Ranjit’s replacement
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Karavalli
Breakfast was another disappointment. It was so unsatisfying that I had a second round at tea board when I reached the institute. First of all, I don’t really like upama, not for breakfast at least. Secondly, it was heated up in the microwave oven, had little ingredients in it and very spicy. Thirdly, I asked for fruits and all I got was “Naheeng. Khatam.” meaning “No. Finished.”
Alagiri wanted to do some shopping so we went to Commercial Street where he got a shirt and two pants. After that, we went over to MG Road to check out the book stores. I wanted to get a Hindi phrase book. There were a couple of Hindi self-taught books, conversational Hindi books, but I could not find the phrasebook I wanted. Oh well, another time then.
Since we were in the area, we hopped over to this restaurant called Karavalli on Residency Road, which was recommended by one of the guide books. Karavalli serves South Indian cuisine and seafood is supposed to be their specialty. It’s a little pricy, the damage was about Rs900 per person, but worth every cent.
Alagiri let me decide on what to order. From the menu, I chose a spicy chilli Goan chicken for starters, all-time Karavalli favourite fish curry and Karavalli’s special pomfret on banana leaf for main courses, and rice to go with it. Spicy tomato and tumeric soup was complementary and came in a small glass set in a copper holder. The crispy rice crackers appetizer was so tasty, we finished the whole basket of it!
Nice cosy little place in a garden setting, wooden furniture, straw placemats with copper cutlery and food is served on banana leaves by waiters dressed in traditional dresses. This Tamil Nadu friend of mine was so impressed by the authenticity of the food, the way it’s served and the whole dining experience, he couldn't stop singing its praises. He said it feels like home.
After a lousy dinner and breakfast, this is a nice treat for myself as well.
Glossary:
Upama – A fried rice-like dish of semolina (Hindi: sugee), diced carrots, long beans and green chilli.
Alagiri wanted to do some shopping so we went to Commercial Street where he got a shirt and two pants. After that, we went over to MG Road to check out the book stores. I wanted to get a Hindi phrase book. There were a couple of Hindi self-taught books, conversational Hindi books, but I could not find the phrasebook I wanted. Oh well, another time then.
Since we were in the area, we hopped over to this restaurant called Karavalli on Residency Road, which was recommended by one of the guide books. Karavalli serves South Indian cuisine and seafood is supposed to be their specialty. It’s a little pricy, the damage was about Rs900 per person, but worth every cent.
Alagiri let me decide on what to order. From the menu, I chose a spicy chilli Goan chicken for starters, all-time Karavalli favourite fish curry and Karavalli’s special pomfret on banana leaf for main courses, and rice to go with it. Spicy tomato and tumeric soup was complementary and came in a small glass set in a copper holder. The crispy rice crackers appetizer was so tasty, we finished the whole basket of it!
Nice cosy little place in a garden setting, wooden furniture, straw placemats with copper cutlery and food is served on banana leaves by waiters dressed in traditional dresses. This Tamil Nadu friend of mine was so impressed by the authenticity of the food, the way it’s served and the whole dining experience, he couldn't stop singing its praises. He said it feels like home.
After a lousy dinner and breakfast, this is a nice treat for myself as well.
Glossary:
Upama – A fried rice-like dish of semolina (Hindi: sugee), diced carrots, long beans and green chilli.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Unfinished Dinner
For the first time, I did not manage to finish my dinner. Dinner was so terrible, I couldn’t even eat half of it. Unfortunately, I will still need to pay Rs150 for tonight’s meal.
Shortly following a beeping sound from the microwave oven, one plate, on which was 2 pieces of roti and 3 tiffins was placed before me. The roti was so dry it tasted like hardened flour. The dal was cold while the capsicum and beans mix was severely overcooked and soaking in oil. Only the last tiffin containing stir-fry potato was palatable. No pappa, no salad, no curd.
The way dinner was served and the moment I tasted the food, I felt like I had just came from the queue in ‘A’ mess!
Perhaps I had got used to Ranjit’s cooking, the spread he always had for me and the way he presented the food. He will serve the food on a tray. 4 tiffins with a spoon each, one for dal, two for vegetables and one for curd. On my plate, he will place a piece of roti which he kept warm in a pot. On a smaller plate, he will place a piece of pappa. Salad comes nicely decorated in layers of cucumber, carrots and tomatoes on another plate. A glass of water will be by the side.
He will introduce each of the dishes to me, tell me what goes into each dish. He will ask if the food is tasty and whether I like the food and check periodically if I need more of any items.
I’ll give this new guy another chance. Otherwise, it’s time to try out the restaurants on New BEL Road.
Shortly following a beeping sound from the microwave oven, one plate, on which was 2 pieces of roti and 3 tiffins was placed before me. The roti was so dry it tasted like hardened flour. The dal was cold while the capsicum and beans mix was severely overcooked and soaking in oil. Only the last tiffin containing stir-fry potato was palatable. No pappa, no salad, no curd.
The way dinner was served and the moment I tasted the food, I felt like I had just came from the queue in ‘A’ mess!
Perhaps I had got used to Ranjit’s cooking, the spread he always had for me and the way he presented the food. He will serve the food on a tray. 4 tiffins with a spoon each, one for dal, two for vegetables and one for curd. On my plate, he will place a piece of roti which he kept warm in a pot. On a smaller plate, he will place a piece of pappa. Salad comes nicely decorated in layers of cucumber, carrots and tomatoes on another plate. A glass of water will be by the side.
He will introduce each of the dishes to me, tell me what goes into each dish. He will ask if the food is tasty and whether I like the food and check periodically if I need more of any items.
I’ll give this new guy another chance. Otherwise, it’s time to try out the restaurants on New BEL Road.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Diwali Homegoing
The Hindu Diwali (Deepavali) festival will begin on Tuesday, 28-Oct-08. Traditions vary by region, but most Hindus will observe the multi-day festival from 26-Oct-08 to 30-Oct-08. Many banks, businesses, and government offices will close during this time and Diwali is also a peak travel period as many people will go back to their hometown to celebrate the festival with their family.
One of my friends had already gone home last Sunday. Many other folks in the lab are leaving over the weekend. My little Indian butler will be going home tomorrow too. He has been counting down to this day since last week.
He reassured me that he had instructed his stand-in not to disturb me unnecessarily, to make sure I have curd and salad in addition to the dishes for dinner, and to fill up my water bottle for me in the morning and at night. He had told the new guy that I prefer roti to rice, have my tea black and my food less sweet. He had also reminded him to bring in my clothes when they are dry and where to send my laundry for washing.
He told me, it’s only for 3 weeks and I’ll be fine.
One of my friends had already gone home last Sunday. Many other folks in the lab are leaving over the weekend. My little Indian butler will be going home tomorrow too. He has been counting down to this day since last week.
He reassured me that he had instructed his stand-in not to disturb me unnecessarily, to make sure I have curd and salad in addition to the dishes for dinner, and to fill up my water bottle for me in the morning and at night. He had told the new guy that I prefer roti to rice, have my tea black and my food less sweet. He had also reminded him to bring in my clothes when they are dry and where to send my laundry for washing.
He told me, it’s only for 3 weeks and I’ll be fine.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Reminders
Got a scolding from my little Indian butler tonight.
I went to Malleshwaram after work today to get some stuffs and it took longer than I had expected. As a result, I came back late. Ranjit was waiting at the door for me, asked why haven’t I called and whether I had my dinner. After my shower, I told him I’m not having dinner as it’s too late. My stomach will not be able to digest a full Indian dinner at 10.30pm!
I asked for some fruits and made myself a cup of Milo. The next thing I knew, he was lecturing me for skipping dinner, that it’s not good for health and I should not focus on my work so much that I miss my meals... The words and vision of my mum transcended through this 20 years old lad. I got a little more nagging from him and after that, he went and brought me some crackers and Indian sweets.
Two more days before he leaves for home. For the past week, he has been reminding me not to come back after 10.00pm and to lock my door whenever I’m in my room. He had just added another reminder – I am to have my dinner everyday.
I went to Malleshwaram after work today to get some stuffs and it took longer than I had expected. As a result, I came back late. Ranjit was waiting at the door for me, asked why haven’t I called and whether I had my dinner. After my shower, I told him I’m not having dinner as it’s too late. My stomach will not be able to digest a full Indian dinner at 10.30pm!
I asked for some fruits and made myself a cup of Milo. The next thing I knew, he was lecturing me for skipping dinner, that it’s not good for health and I should not focus on my work so much that I miss my meals... The words and vision of my mum transcended through this 20 years old lad. I got a little more nagging from him and after that, he went and brought me some crackers and Indian sweets.
Two more days before he leaves for home. For the past week, he has been reminding me not to come back after 10.00pm and to lock my door whenever I’m in my room. He had just added another reminder – I am to have my dinner everyday.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Gobi Manchurian
My little Indian butler had wanted to prepare Gobi Manchurian for me on Sunday. However, he had to train up the new guy who is going to cover him when he is on home leave and on top of that, the service apartment is full house this week starting Monday and he had to prepare the rooms for the guests arrival the next day. He was so busy that he didn’t even have time to chat with me.
He finally made it for me today! :)
He finally made it for me today! :)
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Modes of Transport
Run
A slow run is a good way of exploring a new neighbourhood. I finally ventured out after my second week here. The roads within an area are named by Main and Cross. The mains usually run parallel to the major roads while the crosses runs between the mains. At one of the main road, I reached a T-junction. Knowing that the left will lead back to the major road, I decided to take the right.
As I run along, the scenery changes from posh bungalows to apartments to shophouses. I followed the road and soon it will lead me to shops on both sides of the road which buses ply. A stranger in a foreign land, running in the early hours of the morning, on a major road. I must have been a weird sighting.
45 minutes later, I turned out onto a major road. I was sure I did not pass this way in the morning, yet somehow the shops looked kind of familiar. Should I take left or right? Time is running out as I had to go to the railway station after that. A voice shouted out to me, “Silly girl, this is the road home!” Where I was is 2 bus stops from where I usually alight. That’s why the shops looked familiar!
A GPS will be useful in tracking my location. Here, that is done by looking at the signboards of the shops which will usually have the road name and area name, and correlating them to the street directory when I get home later. Rajagopalan Road, Sanjay Nagar. That’s the neighbourhood where I had looped my run.
Rail
My first exploration to the Bangalore City Southwestern Railway Station. My friend’s first home trip after two years in the institute. Though his professor approved his leave for only 15 days, he is as happy as can be.
He had booked his ticket via the internet, but he needed to confirm his reservation. I waited in line for him as he went around trying to sort out his ticket. 15 minutes left to the train’s scheduled departure time, he came back with his confirmed seat number.
Quickly, we lugged his heavy bag containing gifts for his family into the station. Many people were traveling, mostly going home for the Diwali festival. The platforms were packed with people. There is a bridge that linked all the platforms. There were small numerical electronic signboards at the exit to each platform, but they were not showing any numbers at all. I asked him how he knew which platform to go to and he told me the train number will tell.
We reached the train and I found the train number, 6352. One must have really good eyesight ‘cos these are 1-inch big letters in yellow painted on side of the blue trains. Pasted at the entrance to the carriage is the name list of all passengers with their seat numbers.
The carriage is painted a light blue with small windows that looked out directly to the outside as there were no window panes, only horizontal window grills in the same light blue and red for the emergency window. Paintwork were chipping off, showing the reddish rusty metal underneath. Inside the carriage, each section is ventilated by 3 electric fans.
Train seats are classified into different class: seats, sleepers and air-conditioned. The sleepers have seats which can be converted into beds for sleeping. Each sleeper section will accommodate one Sleeper 2 and two Sleeper 3. Sleeper 2 are set parallel to the train and sleeps two people, one on top and one below. Sleeper 3 are set perpendicular to the train facing Sleeper 2, sleeps 3 people on each side, 6 in each section. These have lower headroom as compared to Sleeper 2. The beds when laid flat are about 1.5m long by 0.5m wide.
Non-passengers need to purchase a platform ticket to move freely on the platform and in the train. The ticket cost Rs3.00 and is valid for 2 hours. I did not have the chance to check out the seats and a/c sections as the train had started moving. There were no announcements or any whistle blown. We had to jump off the train!
Bus
At the entrance and in the main lobby of the KSRTC Bus Station, there is a huge map of Bangalore with all the bus routes serving the city. All major road names, locations of all the bus stops and the respective names of each bus stop are clearly marked on the map. I was pretty impressed.
Many people stood before the map. So did I. After studying the map for a long while, I realized something is missing. It doesn’t tell the bus numbers traveling on a particular route. So there I was, knowing all the bus stops on all the roads, but unable to figure out which bus to take to go to a certain place.
The information panels at the platforms were more informative. They have the bus numbers, destination and the major area the bus will go through. However, a consolidated panel with these information is not available and there are more than 20 platforms at the bus station itself. If my friend had not told me to go to Platform 23 for buses that go to Tata Institute, how long will I take before I finally get to the correct platform?
Subway
The sign above reads “Subway”. Below it, a dark flight of steps leads underground. Out of curiosity, I asked my friends if there is also a subway at the bus station. They told me that there is a lot of traffic in the bus station, so people use the subway. I had a sudden realization. The subway is actually an underpass!
Then there is also the other type of “Subway” located mostly at the petrol kiosks and ironically, aboveground. The sandwich type.
Autos
There’s always something new with autos.
Previously, I learnt that autos will not take you if the destination is too near. Then I found out that the meter runs twice as fast after 10.30pm. Today, I learnt that they will not take you as well if the destination is too far…
A slow run is a good way of exploring a new neighbourhood. I finally ventured out after my second week here. The roads within an area are named by Main and Cross. The mains usually run parallel to the major roads while the crosses runs between the mains. At one of the main road, I reached a T-junction. Knowing that the left will lead back to the major road, I decided to take the right.
As I run along, the scenery changes from posh bungalows to apartments to shophouses. I followed the road and soon it will lead me to shops on both sides of the road which buses ply. A stranger in a foreign land, running in the early hours of the morning, on a major road. I must have been a weird sighting.
45 minutes later, I turned out onto a major road. I was sure I did not pass this way in the morning, yet somehow the shops looked kind of familiar. Should I take left or right? Time is running out as I had to go to the railway station after that. A voice shouted out to me, “Silly girl, this is the road home!” Where I was is 2 bus stops from where I usually alight. That’s why the shops looked familiar!
A GPS will be useful in tracking my location. Here, that is done by looking at the signboards of the shops which will usually have the road name and area name, and correlating them to the street directory when I get home later. Rajagopalan Road, Sanjay Nagar. That’s the neighbourhood where I had looped my run.
Rail
My first exploration to the Bangalore City Southwestern Railway Station. My friend’s first home trip after two years in the institute. Though his professor approved his leave for only 15 days, he is as happy as can be.
He had booked his ticket via the internet, but he needed to confirm his reservation. I waited in line for him as he went around trying to sort out his ticket. 15 minutes left to the train’s scheduled departure time, he came back with his confirmed seat number.
Quickly, we lugged his heavy bag containing gifts for his family into the station. Many people were traveling, mostly going home for the Diwali festival. The platforms were packed with people. There is a bridge that linked all the platforms. There were small numerical electronic signboards at the exit to each platform, but they were not showing any numbers at all. I asked him how he knew which platform to go to and he told me the train number will tell.
We reached the train and I found the train number, 6352. One must have really good eyesight ‘cos these are 1-inch big letters in yellow painted on side of the blue trains. Pasted at the entrance to the carriage is the name list of all passengers with their seat numbers.
The carriage is painted a light blue with small windows that looked out directly to the outside as there were no window panes, only horizontal window grills in the same light blue and red for the emergency window. Paintwork were chipping off, showing the reddish rusty metal underneath. Inside the carriage, each section is ventilated by 3 electric fans.
Train seats are classified into different class: seats, sleepers and air-conditioned. The sleepers have seats which can be converted into beds for sleeping. Each sleeper section will accommodate one Sleeper 2 and two Sleeper 3. Sleeper 2 are set parallel to the train and sleeps two people, one on top and one below. Sleeper 3 are set perpendicular to the train facing Sleeper 2, sleeps 3 people on each side, 6 in each section. These have lower headroom as compared to Sleeper 2. The beds when laid flat are about 1.5m long by 0.5m wide.
Non-passengers need to purchase a platform ticket to move freely on the platform and in the train. The ticket cost Rs3.00 and is valid for 2 hours. I did not have the chance to check out the seats and a/c sections as the train had started moving. There were no announcements or any whistle blown. We had to jump off the train!
Bus
At the entrance and in the main lobby of the KSRTC Bus Station, there is a huge map of Bangalore with all the bus routes serving the city. All major road names, locations of all the bus stops and the respective names of each bus stop are clearly marked on the map. I was pretty impressed.
Many people stood before the map. So did I. After studying the map for a long while, I realized something is missing. It doesn’t tell the bus numbers traveling on a particular route. So there I was, knowing all the bus stops on all the roads, but unable to figure out which bus to take to go to a certain place.
The information panels at the platforms were more informative. They have the bus numbers, destination and the major area the bus will go through. However, a consolidated panel with these information is not available and there are more than 20 platforms at the bus station itself. If my friend had not told me to go to Platform 23 for buses that go to Tata Institute, how long will I take before I finally get to the correct platform?
Subway
The sign above reads “Subway”. Below it, a dark flight of steps leads underground. Out of curiosity, I asked my friends if there is also a subway at the bus station. They told me that there is a lot of traffic in the bus station, so people use the subway. I had a sudden realization. The subway is actually an underpass!
Then there is also the other type of “Subway” located mostly at the petrol kiosks and ironically, aboveground. The sandwich type.
Autos
There’s always something new with autos.
Previously, I learnt that autos will not take you if the destination is too near. Then I found out that the meter runs twice as fast after 10.30pm. Today, I learnt that they will not take you as well if the destination is too far…
Friday, October 17, 2008
Polymerization
Discovered that the compound I synthesized last week had polymerized. This compound has a retention factor of 0.5 when developed on a silica gel thin layer chromatography plate in a 10% methanol in chloroform solvent system. This meant that it should readily dissolve in chloroform or methanol. However, all solvents, organic and inorganic, from non-polar hexane to dichloromethane, chloroform and highly polar methanol and water, could not dissolve it at all.
This is no good news. First, there were as much as 300mg of the compound as I had scaled up this reaction. Second, the starting material is limited and takes a long time to synthesize. Third, this will delay work in MBU for coupling the compound to the proteins as I will had to synthesize more of the compound and make sure that it stays intact.
Sometimes, we are very much like the compound that has polymerized. After going through the years in life, weathered by blazing suns and stormy rains, we simply polymerize. After some time, nothing will hurt us anymore as we get immune to the ups and downs in life.
As always, there's two sides to everything. A polymerized compound is good to be made into things like plates and utensils, where you need it strong and tough to be functional. (Imagine eating your plastic plates and utensils together with your food...)
On the other hand, a polymer is also less miscible and flexible. It is harder to induce a reaction from a polymerized compound and you cant use it to catalyze other reactions. Also, it will usually decompose before it reaches its boiling point.
One should be strong enough to withstand the highs and lows in life. However, to live life fully, we should not allow ourselves to polymerize...
This is no good news. First, there were as much as 300mg of the compound as I had scaled up this reaction. Second, the starting material is limited and takes a long time to synthesize. Third, this will delay work in MBU for coupling the compound to the proteins as I will had to synthesize more of the compound and make sure that it stays intact.
Sometimes, we are very much like the compound that has polymerized. After going through the years in life, weathered by blazing suns and stormy rains, we simply polymerize. After some time, nothing will hurt us anymore as we get immune to the ups and downs in life.
As always, there's two sides to everything. A polymerized compound is good to be made into things like plates and utensils, where you need it strong and tough to be functional. (Imagine eating your plastic plates and utensils together with your food...)
On the other hand, a polymer is also less miscible and flexible. It is harder to induce a reaction from a polymerized compound and you cant use it to catalyze other reactions. Also, it will usually decompose before it reaches its boiling point.
One should be strong enough to withstand the highs and lows in life. However, to live life fully, we should not allow ourselves to polymerize...
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Butter Fingers
Broke a test tube and a separating funnel today. Broke a Buchner funnel and a test tube yesterday. Washed a magnetic stirring bar down the sink the day before. Last week, I broke the glass syringe plunger while washing it.
Felt really bad as already the resources here were very limited and now with the list of things I broke, we were left with even fewer things to work with.
Working here has however, taught me that things can still be done and life will still go on, even when things deemed necessary are not available and assets are scarce. There’s always another way of doing things, improvisation is the keyword and one is able to find joy in simplicity.
Felt really bad as already the resources here were very limited and now with the list of things I broke, we were left with even fewer things to work with.
Working here has however, taught me that things can still be done and life will still go on, even when things deemed necessary are not available and assets are scarce. There’s always another way of doing things, improvisation is the keyword and one is able to find joy in simplicity.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Proactiveness
Rainy day. The sky opened up in the late evening and it started to drizzle again as I was leaving MBU for home. Along the way out, I decided to take out my umbrella. It was a correct decision as the rain only got heavier.
Before I came, BIG BOSS told me I must be more proactive and take initiative when I’m in India, else I’ll be left behind. Somehow, the rain and the 30 minutes wait at the bus stop gave me time to ponder and I was reminded of what he said to me.
2 different people came over and asked if they could take shelter under my umbrella while waiting for the bus. Back at home, I have not encountered any stranger asking to share an umbrella with me before, more probably so because I’m the one not having the brolly most of the time, though I did harbour such thoughts before when I’m stuck at the traffic lights in the rain. Generally, our folks will not take such initiatives.
3 buses came and were packed with people. They did not stop despite people running after them and banging on the sides of the bus. Another bus that was almost full stopped eventually and everyone dashed for it. I too kept my umbrella and headed for the bus. However, the bus filled up very quickly and started to move off before everyone could get on. Those remaining somehow either managed to squeeze themselves in or latch onto some parts of the bus.
I could not match the proactiveness of the locals. Suddenly, the golden words came into mind. Indeed, I was left behind…
Before I came, BIG BOSS told me I must be more proactive and take initiative when I’m in India, else I’ll be left behind. Somehow, the rain and the 30 minutes wait at the bus stop gave me time to ponder and I was reminded of what he said to me.
2 different people came over and asked if they could take shelter under my umbrella while waiting for the bus. Back at home, I have not encountered any stranger asking to share an umbrella with me before, more probably so because I’m the one not having the brolly most of the time, though I did harbour such thoughts before when I’m stuck at the traffic lights in the rain. Generally, our folks will not take such initiatives.
3 buses came and were packed with people. They did not stop despite people running after them and banging on the sides of the bus. Another bus that was almost full stopped eventually and everyone dashed for it. I too kept my umbrella and headed for the bus. However, the bus filled up very quickly and started to move off before everyone could get on. Those remaining somehow either managed to squeeze themselves in or latch onto some parts of the bus.
I could not match the proactiveness of the locals. Suddenly, the golden words came into mind. Indeed, I was left behind…
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Cultural Exchange – Part 3
Most cultural exchanges so far have taken place over food.
It was only during lunch and dinner at the recent Liquid Crystals Conference that I get to bridge the gaps with the chemistry folks, whom I have faced the most resistance in the laboratory.
Majority of this group are from the state of Tamil Nadu. As we stand in the queue for the buffet, they were pleasantly surprised when I greeted them in Tamil. They were intrigued by my interest in learning their language when I asked them for the translations in English some Tamil phrases I commonly hear in their conversations. From them, I picked up some more phrases to expand my Tamil vocabulary.
The rest of the group come from the other states, but they all spoke Hindi. They too were very earnest in teaching me Hindi when they realized that I have been learning and have acquired a little bit of their national language.
That seemed to break the ice. They started talking to me and asking things about myself. I also feel more comfortable sharing and getting to know more about them. I find them to be more friendly and approachable in the laboratory too!
It was only during lunch and dinner at the recent Liquid Crystals Conference that I get to bridge the gaps with the chemistry folks, whom I have faced the most resistance in the laboratory.
Majority of this group are from the state of Tamil Nadu. As we stand in the queue for the buffet, they were pleasantly surprised when I greeted them in Tamil. They were intrigued by my interest in learning their language when I asked them for the translations in English some Tamil phrases I commonly hear in their conversations. From them, I picked up some more phrases to expand my Tamil vocabulary.
The rest of the group come from the other states, but they all spoke Hindi. They too were very earnest in teaching me Hindi when they realized that I have been learning and have acquired a little bit of their national language.
That seemed to break the ice. They started talking to me and asking things about myself. I also feel more comfortable sharing and getting to know more about them. I find them to be more friendly and approachable in the laboratory too!
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Ranjit
Ranjit is the caretaker cum chef of the service apartment where I’m currently staying. A young little fellow from Orissa, who speaks mainly Hindi and a smattering of English, he takes care of the needs of the staying guests and also helps to run errands for the apartment owner.
On my second day here, I commented about low hot water pressure in the shower and mosquitoes keeping me awake at night. The same evening, he had fixed the shower and replaced the mosquitoes repellant oil burner in my room. He went about the house armed with an electric mozzie-buster, after which he told me, “No more mosquitoes, Madam”. He brought my laundry to the rooftop for airing when he found that they were not yet dry. I got a pleasant surprise when I found them ironed and folded neatly in my cupboard the next day!
I like the Indian food he prepares, especially the masala dosai and idly with coconut chutney at breakfast and for dinner, it’s a new menu everyday with a different type of roti to go with it. I have been having full Indian dinners every night since I moved in here. He also asked me to teach him how to make Chinese food. So this morning we went marketing and we made clear vegetable soup, stir-fry cabbage with mushrooms, omelette roll and pan fried tofu with rice for dinner. He said he like the food we prepared.
Sometimes he joins me for dinner, we would chat and he would teach me some Hindi phrases. I found out that he can read and understand English quite well, only that he is not as fluent and his vocabulary is limited. Nevertheless, his command of English is definitely better than my proficiency in Hindi!
Observant and attentive to details, he remembers I like my tea without milk, I like fruits and vegetables, I drink a lot of water and I do not like sweet stuffs. He will prepare a pitcher of water for me in the room at night and in the morning, an apple will be there and my water bottle will be filled for me to bring to work.
When I leave for work, he will ask me what time I’ll be home, whether I’ll be back for dinner, and remind me not to come back late as it is not safe plus the autos will give me problems. He will call me to make sure I’m alright when I have not returned by 9pm and whenever I had to work late, he will wait for me along the main road.
I had to OT again on Saturday and good thing that he was there to help me settle the auto driver who tried to overcharge me once again. On reaching home, he presented me with a big smile together with a poster he drew himself. On it was written “Ms Tan Kee Leng Welcome” in Indian motifs and design.
After a month on my own, it’s really nice to have someone to come home to, someone to fuss over me, and last but not least, a delicious home-cooked dinner awaiting. Ranjit reminds me of home. I miss my family, including my mum’s nagging…
On my second day here, I commented about low hot water pressure in the shower and mosquitoes keeping me awake at night. The same evening, he had fixed the shower and replaced the mosquitoes repellant oil burner in my room. He went about the house armed with an electric mozzie-buster, after which he told me, “No more mosquitoes, Madam”. He brought my laundry to the rooftop for airing when he found that they were not yet dry. I got a pleasant surprise when I found them ironed and folded neatly in my cupboard the next day!
I like the Indian food he prepares, especially the masala dosai and idly with coconut chutney at breakfast and for dinner, it’s a new menu everyday with a different type of roti to go with it. I have been having full Indian dinners every night since I moved in here. He also asked me to teach him how to make Chinese food. So this morning we went marketing and we made clear vegetable soup, stir-fry cabbage with mushrooms, omelette roll and pan fried tofu with rice for dinner. He said he like the food we prepared.
Sometimes he joins me for dinner, we would chat and he would teach me some Hindi phrases. I found out that he can read and understand English quite well, only that he is not as fluent and his vocabulary is limited. Nevertheless, his command of English is definitely better than my proficiency in Hindi!
Observant and attentive to details, he remembers I like my tea without milk, I like fruits and vegetables, I drink a lot of water and I do not like sweet stuffs. He will prepare a pitcher of water for me in the room at night and in the morning, an apple will be there and my water bottle will be filled for me to bring to work.
When I leave for work, he will ask me what time I’ll be home, whether I’ll be back for dinner, and remind me not to come back late as it is not safe plus the autos will give me problems. He will call me to make sure I’m alright when I have not returned by 9pm and whenever I had to work late, he will wait for me along the main road.
I had to OT again on Saturday and good thing that he was there to help me settle the auto driver who tried to overcharge me once again. On reaching home, he presented me with a big smile together with a poster he drew himself. On it was written “Ms Tan Kee Leng Welcome” in Indian motifs and design.
After a month on my own, it’s really nice to have someone to come home to, someone to fuss over me, and last but not least, a delicious home-cooked dinner awaiting. Ranjit reminds me of home. I miss my family, including my mum’s nagging…
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Dussehra Special
Dussehra is a festival to celebrate the victory in vanquishing a demon. In Karnataka, where Bangalore is situated, the festival is celebrated with the worship of implements used in daily life such as computers, books, vehicles, kitchen tools etc. In the institute, pooja or prayers were conducted and entrances to the departments were decorated with banana leaves, flower garlands and coloured motifs drawn on the ground.
The day seemed extra beautiful. The sky is a soft pastel blue with fluffy clouds, a gentle breeze refreshes the mind, while sweet songs of birds calmed the soul. Little things make a difference, like getting an auto without any hassle the night before, well rested from having a good night’s sleep, and a fast and smooth bus ride to work.
A festive lunch special was served in the mess this day as well. Food is much better, Indian sweets were given and there’s even ice-cream too! Since it was a festive holiday and mess will be closed for dinner, we decided to go out for dinner that evening. However, as I had put on a new experiment in the afternoon and there were 2 parts to the experiment, that meant I had to come back after dinner to continue part 2.
Dinner was at Nandhini Palace, where the guys had wanted to bring me for the longest time. We had fried chicken, Andhara style fried fish, golden prawns, gobi Manchurian, chicken briyani, egg curry dosai and romali roti, followed by sweet lassi and mosombi juice for the finishing touch.
By the time I completed my experiment and left the institute, it was already 10.30pm. This is the latest I had stayed in the institute so far. Basking in the festive mood, spirits were high as I walked out to take an auto back.
The day seemed extra beautiful. The sky is a soft pastel blue with fluffy clouds, a gentle breeze refreshes the mind, while sweet songs of birds calmed the soul. Little things make a difference, like getting an auto without any hassle the night before, well rested from having a good night’s sleep, and a fast and smooth bus ride to work.
A festive lunch special was served in the mess this day as well. Food is much better, Indian sweets were given and there’s even ice-cream too! Since it was a festive holiday and mess will be closed for dinner, we decided to go out for dinner that evening. However, as I had put on a new experiment in the afternoon and there were 2 parts to the experiment, that meant I had to come back after dinner to continue part 2.
Dinner was at Nandhini Palace, where the guys had wanted to bring me for the longest time. We had fried chicken, Andhara style fried fish, golden prawns, gobi Manchurian, chicken briyani, egg curry dosai and romali roti, followed by sweet lassi and mosombi juice for the finishing touch.
By the time I completed my experiment and left the institute, it was already 10.30pm. This is the latest I had stayed in the institute so far. Basking in the festive mood, spirits were high as I walked out to take an auto back.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Independence
The place where I am currently staying is considered too near for an auto to earn a substantial amount and a little too far to walk. I’m kind of stuck in a situation whereby on one hand, the autos were not willing to take me and on the other hand, after a long day at work, I would like to have a relaxing evening and the last thing I want is to fight the noisy traffic or risk falling into pit holes along unlited streets. I have not explored the public buses yet, I had seen them plying along the roads, mostly packed like sardines, with people hanging precariously on the outside of the buses.
Waited more than 10 minutes outside the gate of the institute without much luck for an empty auto and we have not even come to the price haggling part yet. Patience was wearing thin and I decided that it’s better to walk and at the same time try to catch an auto or maybe the public bus along the way, than to be stuck at the institute forever.
Suddenly, I feel very helpless. There’s no decent means to get home from work smoothly. I had to walk at least 30 minutes, be at the mercy of the autos all the time, or risk my life on the roads. Everything did not make sense. Here I am staying in a place that cost Rs1500 a day, and yet I can’t even get proper transport to work and back!
I never realized how much being independent meant to me, being able to do what I want and the way I want to do it. Amid frustrations, I kept reminding myself I’m going through another transition and things like this are expected. I should let myself experience it, embrace it and let it pass. I reassured myself I’ll be zipping around very soon…
Waited more than 10 minutes outside the gate of the institute without much luck for an empty auto and we have not even come to the price haggling part yet. Patience was wearing thin and I decided that it’s better to walk and at the same time try to catch an auto or maybe the public bus along the way, than to be stuck at the institute forever.
Suddenly, I feel very helpless. There’s no decent means to get home from work smoothly. I had to walk at least 30 minutes, be at the mercy of the autos all the time, or risk my life on the roads. Everything did not make sense. Here I am staying in a place that cost Rs1500 a day, and yet I can’t even get proper transport to work and back!
I never realized how much being independent meant to me, being able to do what I want and the way I want to do it. Amid frustrations, I kept reminding myself I’m going through another transition and things like this are expected. I should let myself experience it, embrace it and let it pass. I reassured myself I’ll be zipping around very soon…
Monday, October 6, 2008
Walkabout
My first day to work from my new home. I feel like a primary school kid going to school on her own for the first time. Many people gave me advice on the types of transport available, where to alight, what to look out for, etc. I managed to catch a lift from the apartment owner to work in the morning. Coming back, I had the options of hailing an auto, taking the public bus or walking home.
The evening was cool after an earlier downpour, I decided to take a leisure walk back and at the same time I can also estimate how much time it takes to commute by foot to work. Though it’s already dark and I have not gone back on my own before, I’m pretty confident of the way back as I have been to my new place by car three times and I had identified some landmarks and turnings. On top of that, I know the stretch of main road quite well too.
I had estimated the walk should take about 30 minutes and I checked off landmarks as I go along. However, it was more than 10 minutes after the last landmark and I have not yet reached where I was supposed to make a turn. Also tired after a day at work, I thought to myself, this is too much of a walk home everyday. I continued walking, looking out all the time for the turn, until the rows of shops ended, the crowed thinned and the road turned quiet and sparsely lited on an uphill.
The surroundings did not look any familiar at all. I do not remember going on an uphill when I traveled there by car previously. I checked the time, 45 minutes had passed since I started walking. Instinct told me to turn back. I traced back the route I took til the last landmark. From there, I started afresh and just 100 meters ahead, I saw the turn. I let out a sigh of relief… I wasn’t prepared for a walking excursion and an additional 2 kilometers on the same busy noisy road drained me mentally and physically. One crossing, one more right turn and I’ll be back in the house.
Things did not turn out as expected. I missed another small turn on my way in and all the right turns either led to a dead end or construction sites. I ended up walking back and forth the estate a couple of times, before I finally decided to ask a security guard outside one of the houses for directions and he pointed me to the correct lane.
As I try to locate the house, I actually walked past it unknowingly and luckily Ranjit who was in the driveway called out to me when he saw me walking past the gate. That saved me another few hundred meters.
It’s not all that bad for the day. At least, there was a delicious home-cooked dinner waiting for me…
The evening was cool after an earlier downpour, I decided to take a leisure walk back and at the same time I can also estimate how much time it takes to commute by foot to work. Though it’s already dark and I have not gone back on my own before, I’m pretty confident of the way back as I have been to my new place by car three times and I had identified some landmarks and turnings. On top of that, I know the stretch of main road quite well too.
I had estimated the walk should take about 30 minutes and I checked off landmarks as I go along. However, it was more than 10 minutes after the last landmark and I have not yet reached where I was supposed to make a turn. Also tired after a day at work, I thought to myself, this is too much of a walk home everyday. I continued walking, looking out all the time for the turn, until the rows of shops ended, the crowed thinned and the road turned quiet and sparsely lited on an uphill.
The surroundings did not look any familiar at all. I do not remember going on an uphill when I traveled there by car previously. I checked the time, 45 minutes had passed since I started walking. Instinct told me to turn back. I traced back the route I took til the last landmark. From there, I started afresh and just 100 meters ahead, I saw the turn. I let out a sigh of relief… I wasn’t prepared for a walking excursion and an additional 2 kilometers on the same busy noisy road drained me mentally and physically. One crossing, one more right turn and I’ll be back in the house.
Things did not turn out as expected. I missed another small turn on my way in and all the right turns either led to a dead end or construction sites. I ended up walking back and forth the estate a couple of times, before I finally decided to ask a security guard outside one of the houses for directions and he pointed me to the correct lane.
As I try to locate the house, I actually walked past it unknowingly and luckily Ranjit who was in the driveway called out to me when he saw me walking past the gate. That saved me another few hundred meters.
It’s not all that bad for the day. At least, there was a delicious home-cooked dinner waiting for me…
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Mooniversary
Borrowed the word “mooniversary” for the title of this entry from a friend who coined it together from “moon” for month and “anniversary” to mark my first month here in India.
Last Run
There was a heavy downpour in the early hours of the morning on Saturday. I had planned to do my last run in the institute before I move to my new place. Instead, I ran a fever, blew out my nose and stretched my lungs under the blankets in my bed…
What luck.. I still had to go to work and on top of that, I had yet to pack my stuffs for moving to the new place on Sunday. Arghhh…
New Home
Today, there were showers of blessings for my relocation to my new home: a room in a 3-storey house 2 kilometers north of the institute. The service apartment is located in a quiet estate, about 10 minutes walk from the main road, from where it’s another 30 minutes to the institute by walk or 10 minutes by car.
Breakfast comes with the room while lunch and dinner are charged separately. The service apartment is taken care of by Ranjit, a young little fellow who speaks Hindi and a little English. He holds the all keys to the house and also does the cooking. He is like a butler to the guests.
Mooniversary
My first relocation. My first falling sick. My first home-cooked dinner.
The rest of the “mooniversary” was spent unpacking and arranging things to make myself feel more at home, orienteering myself around the house, and getting to know my new little Indian butler.
Last Run
There was a heavy downpour in the early hours of the morning on Saturday. I had planned to do my last run in the institute before I move to my new place. Instead, I ran a fever, blew out my nose and stretched my lungs under the blankets in my bed…
What luck.. I still had to go to work and on top of that, I had yet to pack my stuffs for moving to the new place on Sunday. Arghhh…
New Home
Today, there were showers of blessings for my relocation to my new home: a room in a 3-storey house 2 kilometers north of the institute. The service apartment is located in a quiet estate, about 10 minutes walk from the main road, from where it’s another 30 minutes to the institute by walk or 10 minutes by car.
Breakfast comes with the room while lunch and dinner are charged separately. The service apartment is taken care of by Ranjit, a young little fellow who speaks Hindi and a little English. He holds the all keys to the house and also does the cooking. He is like a butler to the guests.
Mooniversary
My first relocation. My first falling sick. My first home-cooked dinner.
The rest of the “mooniversary” was spent unpacking and arranging things to make myself feel more at home, orienteering myself around the house, and getting to know my new little Indian butler.
Friday, October 3, 2008
Culture Exchange – Part 2
Another dinner outing with the MBU folks, this time 10 of us, at Neel, an Indian restaurant on 80 Feet Road. The group was half vegetarian and half non-vegetarian. By now, I have got accustomed to people having mainly vegetarian food here. However, this time round, I noticed that one of them ordered fish as his main course but for the rest of the starters, he took only the vegetarian ones.
There were whispers and nodding of heads. I asked Likesh who was sitting beside me if there was any problem. He told me in a hushed voice that this particular guy’s religion requires meat to be prepared in a certain way, thus he could not have the meat dishes other than fish as this restaurant does not follow their religion’s requirements.
Turning to the guy, I asked casually, “Tariq, you are a Muslim?” He seemed pleased, while the rest gave me surprised looks. “You know Muslim?”, they asked.
I smiled and shared with them about the different ethnic groups and religions in Singapore, dietary requirements of some the religions, about Halal certifications and the cultural sensitivity practiced when going out for meals in a non-homogeneous group. They were even more amazed when they learnt that I have had lassi, naan and dosa before, and also knew what gobi, bhendi and roti were.
Going back, we decided to take the bus as it was a short distance to the institute, just two bus stops away, and since it was past 9.00pm, autos are expensive and hard to get. I was really excited as it was going to be my first trip on public bus!
We walked to the main road and waited at the traffic junction. I asked if that is the bus stop as I did not see any shelter, signboard or indications of a bus stop. “We will get on when the bus stops at the lights.” I learnt that one can board and alight the bus anywhere, as long as you are able to get onto it and get off safely.
Service 276, a light blue and white bus, driver and conductor dressed in khaki uniforms, for Rs3.00, it will take us back to the institute in 5 minutes. Ladies get to board and alight the bus from the front door and the first four rows of red seats in the bus were reserved for ladies only. Buses get very crowded and sardine-packed during peak hours and I definitely would not want to be sandwiched between the men!
It was a very short but smooth introductory bus ride. Once again, at the traffic junction, our bus stopped to make a right turn. All of us quickly hopped off the bus…
There were whispers and nodding of heads. I asked Likesh who was sitting beside me if there was any problem. He told me in a hushed voice that this particular guy’s religion requires meat to be prepared in a certain way, thus he could not have the meat dishes other than fish as this restaurant does not follow their religion’s requirements.
Turning to the guy, I asked casually, “Tariq, you are a Muslim?” He seemed pleased, while the rest gave me surprised looks. “You know Muslim?”, they asked.
I smiled and shared with them about the different ethnic groups and religions in Singapore, dietary requirements of some the religions, about Halal certifications and the cultural sensitivity practiced when going out for meals in a non-homogeneous group. They were even more amazed when they learnt that I have had lassi, naan and dosa before, and also knew what gobi, bhendi and roti were.
Going back, we decided to take the bus as it was a short distance to the institute, just two bus stops away, and since it was past 9.00pm, autos are expensive and hard to get. I was really excited as it was going to be my first trip on public bus!
We walked to the main road and waited at the traffic junction. I asked if that is the bus stop as I did not see any shelter, signboard or indications of a bus stop. “We will get on when the bus stops at the lights.” I learnt that one can board and alight the bus anywhere, as long as you are able to get onto it and get off safely.
Service 276, a light blue and white bus, driver and conductor dressed in khaki uniforms, for Rs3.00, it will take us back to the institute in 5 minutes. Ladies get to board and alight the bus from the front door and the first four rows of red seats in the bus were reserved for ladies only. Buses get very crowded and sardine-packed during peak hours and I definitely would not want to be sandwiched between the men!
It was a very short but smooth introductory bus ride. Once again, at the traffic junction, our bus stopped to make a right turn. All of us quickly hopped off the bus…
Sunday, September 28, 2008
3 Weeks After
Work
Start new experiment, monitor reaction progress, work up, isolation and purification, send for analysis and confirm results. That’s the routine at work. Depending on the type of reaction and purification process, each routine can take from three to five days. Then the cycle repeat itself. Sometimes they overlap, sometimes they lapse, it all depends on the outcome of the experiments.
Carried out 3 experiments this week. One to make more starting materials. One trial reaction did not give any desirable results. One reaction following the literature seemed to be quite positive so far. I’m still waiting for the results of an analysis to confirm if we had indeed got the compound we wanted. It’s been 4 days already…
Time passed quickly when there is work to be done. Unconsciously, I have been working past 7.00pm almost everyday. I stayed til 9.00pm one night to complete one experiment, just in time for ‘Sir’ to call me to his office for a discussion at 8.45pm! I hope he did not treat me as one of his students!!
A Student's Life
Students seemed to belong to the lowest class in the institute. They have no status, no rights, and are expected to work 24/7, even on holidays. Age ranged from early twenties for the Masters students and late twenties for the PhD students. These are highly educated people, the brains of the country and yet to when I talk to them, I get the feeling that they have been made to think that they do not matter at all. To them, getting a PhD is like attaining a primary school leaving certificate.
Majority of them stay in hostels which comes with meals for a monthly fee. Hostel rooms are tiny, with just enough space for a bed, cupboard and writing table. Food is mass produced in the mess and there are fixed timing for meals. It reminds me of life in the army, only that here, they get their own rooms instead of dormitories and time is spent in the laboratories instead of out in the training fields.
Once, I tried to bring three of my chemistry folks to lunch in the guest house. They were stopped at the entrance and were bluntly refused entry, simply because they are students. Not even when I clarified that they were my guests and I had invited them to lunch. If you are a student, you are out.
The sad thing is, they seemed to have accepted all these as the norm. I felt really bad when they give me a lift back on their bicycles and will only drop me off at the gate, they would tell me that they should not step onto the premises.
Friends
Three weeks have passed since I arrived in Bangalore. I’m really glad to have found friends here and they take good care of me. They are ever concerned about where I will get my food, whether I have got a place to stay and even suggested me to talk to the hostel office for my food and lodging. I really do not have the heart to tell them that the accommodation arranged for me is much better than what they would get at the hostels, and I need not have to eat at the mess.
However, I still join them at the mess for lunch and tea for the camaraderie. On weekends, we will go out for dinners and check out new eating places. It was Chinese food at Chung Wah, followed by ice-cream at Flavours in Malleswaram this Sunday.
More Adjustments
One more week and I’ll be moving out of the guest house to a new place, about 15 minutes by car from campus. It will be another period of adjustments with the new environment, having to commute to work, finding new routes for my runs, etc.
More exciting times to come…
Start new experiment, monitor reaction progress, work up, isolation and purification, send for analysis and confirm results. That’s the routine at work. Depending on the type of reaction and purification process, each routine can take from three to five days. Then the cycle repeat itself. Sometimes they overlap, sometimes they lapse, it all depends on the outcome of the experiments.
Carried out 3 experiments this week. One to make more starting materials. One trial reaction did not give any desirable results. One reaction following the literature seemed to be quite positive so far. I’m still waiting for the results of an analysis to confirm if we had indeed got the compound we wanted. It’s been 4 days already…
Time passed quickly when there is work to be done. Unconsciously, I have been working past 7.00pm almost everyday. I stayed til 9.00pm one night to complete one experiment, just in time for ‘Sir’ to call me to his office for a discussion at 8.45pm! I hope he did not treat me as one of his students!!
A Student's Life
Students seemed to belong to the lowest class in the institute. They have no status, no rights, and are expected to work 24/7, even on holidays. Age ranged from early twenties for the Masters students and late twenties for the PhD students. These are highly educated people, the brains of the country and yet to when I talk to them, I get the feeling that they have been made to think that they do not matter at all. To them, getting a PhD is like attaining a primary school leaving certificate.
Majority of them stay in hostels which comes with meals for a monthly fee. Hostel rooms are tiny, with just enough space for a bed, cupboard and writing table. Food is mass produced in the mess and there are fixed timing for meals. It reminds me of life in the army, only that here, they get their own rooms instead of dormitories and time is spent in the laboratories instead of out in the training fields.
Once, I tried to bring three of my chemistry folks to lunch in the guest house. They were stopped at the entrance and were bluntly refused entry, simply because they are students. Not even when I clarified that they were my guests and I had invited them to lunch. If you are a student, you are out.
The sad thing is, they seemed to have accepted all these as the norm. I felt really bad when they give me a lift back on their bicycles and will only drop me off at the gate, they would tell me that they should not step onto the premises.
Friends
Three weeks have passed since I arrived in Bangalore. I’m really glad to have found friends here and they take good care of me. They are ever concerned about where I will get my food, whether I have got a place to stay and even suggested me to talk to the hostel office for my food and lodging. I really do not have the heart to tell them that the accommodation arranged for me is much better than what they would get at the hostels, and I need not have to eat at the mess.
However, I still join them at the mess for lunch and tea for the camaraderie. On weekends, we will go out for dinners and check out new eating places. It was Chinese food at Chung Wah, followed by ice-cream at Flavours in Malleswaram this Sunday.
More Adjustments
One more week and I’ll be moving out of the guest house to a new place, about 15 minutes by car from campus. It will be another period of adjustments with the new environment, having to commute to work, finding new routes for my runs, etc.
More exciting times to come…
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Food-ly Satisfied!!
Before I came, many people were concerned about my diet, whether I can get used to the food here. I used to tell them, so far, food has not been a problem for me when I travel. In fact, I always head straight for the street foods whenever I go to a new place, against all good advice by my mum. Of course, being a kiasu Singaporean, I did bring along my “rations” of comfort food, to stand by for the rainy days here.
South Indian vegetarian food is served at ‘A’ mess, where I had my lunch everyday. Rasam, curry, cooked vegetables, dhal, rice and chappatti is the typical menu. Variation lies in the spiciness of the rasam, type of curry and vegetables used. Sometimes, there is paratha, but I prefer chapatti to both rice and paratha. I have also learnt to eat using my right hand, which takes a little getting used to as I’m inclined to handle food with my left hand. My fingernails have all turned yellow from all the curry…
Since it’s a Saturday, I decided to pamper myself a little and go to Nesara, the only restaurant in the institute, where I had a garden salad, chicken tikka, naan and sweet lassi. It was a refreshing break from south Indian food. I love the naan and sweet lassi. It’s pretty affordable too at Rs116. In fact, I could afford to have all my three meals at Nesara everyday!
Dinner was at the Gym Cafe, a tiny kiosk tucked under one end of the overhead bridge that links the institute to the sports and recreation centre where the sports hall, gymnasium, basketball court, tennis courts and cricket field are located.
A thin wall separates the ‘alfresco’ cafe from the main road. Seated at a plastic table under dim lightings from the street lamps, with the accompaniment of the traffic on the other side and dusty air, I had a plate of egg noodles and garlic chicken. Simple pleasures, where people sat around on the steps of the overhead bridge, chatting over bottled soft drinks or tea.
A leisurely walk back across to the institute took me in search of ice-cream which I found at the faculty club cafe in the form of stick ice-cream in bite-size. That completed the gastronomical adventures of the day.
Full satisfaction!
South Indian vegetarian food is served at ‘A’ mess, where I had my lunch everyday. Rasam, curry, cooked vegetables, dhal, rice and chappatti is the typical menu. Variation lies in the spiciness of the rasam, type of curry and vegetables used. Sometimes, there is paratha, but I prefer chapatti to both rice and paratha. I have also learnt to eat using my right hand, which takes a little getting used to as I’m inclined to handle food with my left hand. My fingernails have all turned yellow from all the curry…
Since it’s a Saturday, I decided to pamper myself a little and go to Nesara, the only restaurant in the institute, where I had a garden salad, chicken tikka, naan and sweet lassi. It was a refreshing break from south Indian food. I love the naan and sweet lassi. It’s pretty affordable too at Rs116. In fact, I could afford to have all my three meals at Nesara everyday!
Dinner was at the Gym Cafe, a tiny kiosk tucked under one end of the overhead bridge that links the institute to the sports and recreation centre where the sports hall, gymnasium, basketball court, tennis courts and cricket field are located.
A thin wall separates the ‘alfresco’ cafe from the main road. Seated at a plastic table under dim lightings from the street lamps, with the accompaniment of the traffic on the other side and dusty air, I had a plate of egg noodles and garlic chicken. Simple pleasures, where people sat around on the steps of the overhead bridge, chatting over bottled soft drinks or tea.
A leisurely walk back across to the institute took me in search of ice-cream which I found at the faculty club cafe in the form of stick ice-cream in bite-size. That completed the gastronomical adventures of the day.
Full satisfaction!
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Downtown Bangalore Adventures
Holy Trinity Church
The day started with a visit to the Holy Trinity Church, located at the end of MG Road. The 150 years old church is “a redolent of the early garrison town days of Bangalore” as quoted in the city guide aka street directory. A faded pink facade on the outside, whitewashed walls on the inside, pinned on a noticeboard near the entrance to the church were newspaper cuttings, divulging more information about the history of the church.
The centerpiece of the church is a small brass cross standing in front of the only stained glass window in the otherwise simply-furnished church, against a painted wall in sky-blue and a white peace-dove. Rows of sugarcanes lined the aisle while bags of fruits hang from the center of the arches between the pillars. Memorial plagues of brass and marble adorned the walls and pillars of the church. Engraved on them were names of British soldiers, generals and colonels who died in some of the wars fought in India.
A service was in progress as I entered the church, packed with people dressed in their Sunday’s best, singing hymns in Tamil. Women in sarees glittering with gold threads, men in neatly pressed shirts and pants, young ladies in salwars and churidas of all colours, as well as trendy modern fashion, and children in fancy traditional costumes.
A gentleman asked if it was my first time to the church and invited me to take part in the Sunday fair held by the church. “Join us, breakfast is there. We’re all children of GOD.” he said. I thanked him for his kind invitation and took a little stroll around the compound before I carried on with my journey.
MG Road – Brigade Road – Church Street
Next stop, Mahatma Gandhi Road or MG Road as it is fondly called. Brigade Road meets MG Road in the middle and together they formed one of the popular shopping belts in Bangalore. Church Street runs parallel to MG Road up to Brigade Road and is where the restaurants are.
I walked down the whole stretch of MG Road, Brigade Road and Church Street, taking in the sights and bustling of activities in the area. Autos formed up along the main road, waiting to pick up passengers. “Where you going, Ma’am?” they would asked and I would smile and reply, “Here, only.”
Browsed a couple of bookstores, a wide selection of books they have, checked out the restaurants and finally stopped to rest at the Indian Coffee House. A nice cosy little place, a wall-to-wall full length window looked out to the main road. Posters of coffee advertisements hung from the walls, as well as photos of Mahatma Gandhi himself. The waiters are dressed in white traditional Sikh costume with a red sash and wore turbans. As I sipped my coffee, I took out my city guide and planned my next stop.
Commercial Street
Commercial Street is another shopping street. It seems to me that there is much more crowd and buzz here than over at MG Road. I popped into a few stores selling traditional Indian wear, tried out a couple of kurtas, there’s one which I liked, but they do not have my size. The clothes here come only in one piece per colour and design, and usually in larger sizes. Although they do alteration for free, they would only alter the width and length of the top, and not the shoulders. Maybe I’ll be luckier next time.
There are many smaller lanes that criss-crossed Commercial Street. I decided to check it out. I kept the city guide in my bag and from Commercial Street, I turned into one of the lanes. At the end of the lane stood Hotel Asoka and a roundabout that branched off into many other lanes. There, I was brought into another world…
No more were the English-speaking, young pretty people wearing trendy clothes or modern buildings with billboards screaming names like Reebok, Nokia, KFC, or air-conditioned stores selling imported goods. It looked more like a market place, on both sides of the streets were small and dark provision shops, folks peddling foodstuffs, dried goods, household ware, clothes and such.
I counted at least 3 different mosques since I turned off from Commercial Street. Men wore long kurtas and a white head dress while a high proportion of women were dressed in black and some even wore veils over their head. There was a strong feeling that I had ventured into an Muslim area unknowingly. Suddenly, I realized I’m the only foreigner on the street and I stood out among the crowd. It did not help that I was wearing jeans with a bright pink T-shirt and carrying a haversack. In the sea of people, similar to what we get in Chinatown during Chinese New Year, there’s hardly any free space around me. I was surrounded by people and could only move with the flow.
Feeling overwhelmed from all the hustle, I yearn for a cup of tea at the tea board. I had no idea where I was, as I had allowed myself to roam freely in the area. There’s no way I could back track as that would be going against the massive flow of people and I had walked a long way. With my very limited sense of direction, I took chance and turned into an adjoining less crowded lane. From there, I followed my instinct. Nothing seemed familiar, not the buildings, not the shops, not the street names. I could only keep my fingers crossed and keep walking. Finally, I saw it. Hotel Asoka! It must have been my lucky day.
Autos
I had initially wanted to try out one of the restaurants but I had a sudden craving for Zinger burger. After a satisfying dinner at KFC, I went out to the main road to hail an auto. Autos are a convenient and not too expensive way to get around, but they are a nightmare after sunset.
The first auto I approached asked for Rs10 extra on top of meter fare. The subsequent ones asked for Rs100 flat. Finally, one auto agreed to charge by meter but requested that I visit his shop for a visit so that he could get some commission. I agreed and he dropped me off at the shop selling pashmina shawls and art crafts. After we left the shop, he requested me to go to another shop which is “along the way”. He even offered not to charge me for the auto fare and switched off the meter. I gave him two options, to bring me back to the institute and I’ll pay him the fare by the meter as agreed or I would get off immediately. I got off the auto.
Another auto came by and asked for Rs70. We bargained a little and eventually settled for Rs60. It was already dark and I do not know where I was then. I was feeling tired and as long as he bring me back to the institute directly, Rs60 so be it. I should have taken the first offer of Rs10 extra…
After a long day out, I’m glad to be finally back in the safe enclave of the institute and it’s tranquility…
The day started with a visit to the Holy Trinity Church, located at the end of MG Road. The 150 years old church is “a redolent of the early garrison town days of Bangalore” as quoted in the city guide aka street directory. A faded pink facade on the outside, whitewashed walls on the inside, pinned on a noticeboard near the entrance to the church were newspaper cuttings, divulging more information about the history of the church.
The centerpiece of the church is a small brass cross standing in front of the only stained glass window in the otherwise simply-furnished church, against a painted wall in sky-blue and a white peace-dove. Rows of sugarcanes lined the aisle while bags of fruits hang from the center of the arches between the pillars. Memorial plagues of brass and marble adorned the walls and pillars of the church. Engraved on them were names of British soldiers, generals and colonels who died in some of the wars fought in India.
A service was in progress as I entered the church, packed with people dressed in their Sunday’s best, singing hymns in Tamil. Women in sarees glittering with gold threads, men in neatly pressed shirts and pants, young ladies in salwars and churidas of all colours, as well as trendy modern fashion, and children in fancy traditional costumes.
A gentleman asked if it was my first time to the church and invited me to take part in the Sunday fair held by the church. “Join us, breakfast is there. We’re all children of GOD.” he said. I thanked him for his kind invitation and took a little stroll around the compound before I carried on with my journey.
MG Road – Brigade Road – Church Street
Next stop, Mahatma Gandhi Road or MG Road as it is fondly called. Brigade Road meets MG Road in the middle and together they formed one of the popular shopping belts in Bangalore. Church Street runs parallel to MG Road up to Brigade Road and is where the restaurants are.
I walked down the whole stretch of MG Road, Brigade Road and Church Street, taking in the sights and bustling of activities in the area. Autos formed up along the main road, waiting to pick up passengers. “Where you going, Ma’am?” they would asked and I would smile and reply, “Here, only.”
Browsed a couple of bookstores, a wide selection of books they have, checked out the restaurants and finally stopped to rest at the Indian Coffee House. A nice cosy little place, a wall-to-wall full length window looked out to the main road. Posters of coffee advertisements hung from the walls, as well as photos of Mahatma Gandhi himself. The waiters are dressed in white traditional Sikh costume with a red sash and wore turbans. As I sipped my coffee, I took out my city guide and planned my next stop.
Commercial Street
Commercial Street is another shopping street. It seems to me that there is much more crowd and buzz here than over at MG Road. I popped into a few stores selling traditional Indian wear, tried out a couple of kurtas, there’s one which I liked, but they do not have my size. The clothes here come only in one piece per colour and design, and usually in larger sizes. Although they do alteration for free, they would only alter the width and length of the top, and not the shoulders. Maybe I’ll be luckier next time.
There are many smaller lanes that criss-crossed Commercial Street. I decided to check it out. I kept the city guide in my bag and from Commercial Street, I turned into one of the lanes. At the end of the lane stood Hotel Asoka and a roundabout that branched off into many other lanes. There, I was brought into another world…
No more were the English-speaking, young pretty people wearing trendy clothes or modern buildings with billboards screaming names like Reebok, Nokia, KFC, or air-conditioned stores selling imported goods. It looked more like a market place, on both sides of the streets were small and dark provision shops, folks peddling foodstuffs, dried goods, household ware, clothes and such.
I counted at least 3 different mosques since I turned off from Commercial Street. Men wore long kurtas and a white head dress while a high proportion of women were dressed in black and some even wore veils over their head. There was a strong feeling that I had ventured into an Muslim area unknowingly. Suddenly, I realized I’m the only foreigner on the street and I stood out among the crowd. It did not help that I was wearing jeans with a bright pink T-shirt and carrying a haversack. In the sea of people, similar to what we get in Chinatown during Chinese New Year, there’s hardly any free space around me. I was surrounded by people and could only move with the flow.
Feeling overwhelmed from all the hustle, I yearn for a cup of tea at the tea board. I had no idea where I was, as I had allowed myself to roam freely in the area. There’s no way I could back track as that would be going against the massive flow of people and I had walked a long way. With my very limited sense of direction, I took chance and turned into an adjoining less crowded lane. From there, I followed my instinct. Nothing seemed familiar, not the buildings, not the shops, not the street names. I could only keep my fingers crossed and keep walking. Finally, I saw it. Hotel Asoka! It must have been my lucky day.
Autos
I had initially wanted to try out one of the restaurants but I had a sudden craving for Zinger burger. After a satisfying dinner at KFC, I went out to the main road to hail an auto. Autos are a convenient and not too expensive way to get around, but they are a nightmare after sunset.
The first auto I approached asked for Rs10 extra on top of meter fare. The subsequent ones asked for Rs100 flat. Finally, one auto agreed to charge by meter but requested that I visit his shop for a visit so that he could get some commission. I agreed and he dropped me off at the shop selling pashmina shawls and art crafts. After we left the shop, he requested me to go to another shop which is “along the way”. He even offered not to charge me for the auto fare and switched off the meter. I gave him two options, to bring me back to the institute and I’ll pay him the fare by the meter as agreed or I would get off immediately. I got off the auto.
Another auto came by and asked for Rs70. We bargained a little and eventually settled for Rs60. It was already dark and I do not know where I was then. I was feeling tired and as long as he bring me back to the institute directly, Rs60 so be it. I should have taken the first offer of Rs10 extra…
After a long day out, I’m glad to be finally back in the safe enclave of the institute and it’s tranquility…
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Cultural Shock!
Greetings
The first three questions asked after being introduced are, in the order:
– What is your background?
– Where did you do your MSc/PhD/Post-doctorate?
– What field did you do your MSc/PhD/Post-doctorate?
To me, that is very unusual. These will definitely not be the questions I will ask someone whom I’ve just been introduced.
Direct & Top-Down
When it comes to speech, my encounters so far had been "direct".
When we would say, “ Will you fill up this form, please? You could sit here and write.”, they say, “You sit and write this.”
When ending a conversation, they say, “Is there anything else?”
When asking you to do something, they say, “You do this…”
I was taken aback many times and it took me a little while, before I came to terms with their directness and not to take it personally.
And if only I had realized the top-down system earlier, I would have saved myself a lot of bumpy rides. Other than having to refer everything to ‘Sir’, frustrations from unable to get what I wanted or get help for things, after working together in the same laboratory sharing the same bench for more than a week, my benchmate finally asked me what my name is and how he should address me, and that’s because his ‘Sir’ told him to work with ‘Dr Tan’.
Seniority
I learnt that seniority is a status and privilege.
When seniors talk to their juniors, the tone tend to be harsh and the approach hostile. However, in front of someone more ‘senior’ than them, for example, their ‘Sir’, suddenly, like the coachman and the horse-carriage when the clock struck twelve, the high and mighty air dissolved into a tiny squeak…
I was invited to one of the freshers’ welcome and was told it will be really fun. There will be songs and dances, snacks and dinner will also be provided. What they did not tell me was, it were the new students who will be made to put on a mask, sing and dance, perform acts which many of them did not appear comfortable with, and on top of that, they had to be subjected to the ridicule and putting down by the seniors.
I’m not sure if the new students feel welcomed, I definitely do not feel so. I talked to one of the organizers after that and shared how our orientation programs were carried out. He told me that is the privilege of the seniors and this is their tradition, so they had to follow.
History will repeat itself the following year, when these juniors become “seniors” and their time has come…
The first three questions asked after being introduced are, in the order:
– What is your background?
– Where did you do your MSc/PhD/Post-doctorate?
– What field did you do your MSc/PhD/Post-doctorate?
To me, that is very unusual. These will definitely not be the questions I will ask someone whom I’ve just been introduced.
Direct & Top-Down
When it comes to speech, my encounters so far had been "direct".
When we would say, “ Will you fill up this form, please? You could sit here and write.”, they say, “You sit and write this.”
When ending a conversation, they say, “Is there anything else?”
When asking you to do something, they say, “You do this…”
I was taken aback many times and it took me a little while, before I came to terms with their directness and not to take it personally.
And if only I had realized the top-down system earlier, I would have saved myself a lot of bumpy rides. Other than having to refer everything to ‘Sir’, frustrations from unable to get what I wanted or get help for things, after working together in the same laboratory sharing the same bench for more than a week, my benchmate finally asked me what my name is and how he should address me, and that’s because his ‘Sir’ told him to work with ‘Dr Tan’.
Seniority
I learnt that seniority is a status and privilege.
When seniors talk to their juniors, the tone tend to be harsh and the approach hostile. However, in front of someone more ‘senior’ than them, for example, their ‘Sir’, suddenly, like the coachman and the horse-carriage when the clock struck twelve, the high and mighty air dissolved into a tiny squeak…
I was invited to one of the freshers’ welcome and was told it will be really fun. There will be songs and dances, snacks and dinner will also be provided. What they did not tell me was, it were the new students who will be made to put on a mask, sing and dance, perform acts which many of them did not appear comfortable with, and on top of that, they had to be subjected to the ridicule and putting down by the seniors.
I’m not sure if the new students feel welcomed, I definitely do not feel so. I talked to one of the organizers after that and shared how our orientation programs were carried out. He told me that is the privilege of the seniors and this is their tradition, so they had to follow.
History will repeat itself the following year, when these juniors become “seniors” and their time has come…
Cultural Exchange
Feel Your Food
Folks here are still very conservative when it comes to food. They seldom eat out and when they do, they usually stick to their curry and chapatti. Last Sunday, the MBU folks brought me to a cosy little restaurant serving continental food. Guess they were feeling adventurous. I was pretty curious how western food will turn out in India.
We ordered some starters to share followed by the main course. The food turned out pretty well. I ordered fish on a bed of spinach with mashed potatoes. It came as it was described in the menu, though I would have preferred that they did not add on the layer of cheese on the dish.
We had a great time. They had a lot of fun exploring the different types of food and experimenting with their cutlery. They watched in amazement with the way I cut and handled the fish fillet. I taught them how to use their fork and knife, and also how to eat spaghetti in style by twirling it around the fork.
We shared and discussed the eating practices of different cultures. They could not fathom how one could eat rice with chopsticks! They told me, one should smell, taste and feel their food, only then will the eating experience be wholesome…
Dessert was the star of the dinner. The tiramisu was pleasantly beyond expectations. It had the correct texture and consistency, it would be perfect if they had used better quality cocoa, coffee and liquor.
We went in search for some paan after dinner. Paan is something usually eaten after food to help digestion. It’s sweet, with a mixture of herbs, spices and nuts, wrapped in a leaf. One is supposed to put the whole thing into the mouth and slowly chew. My teeth were unable to take the sweetness, but what’s left was a nice minty freshness in my mouth.
Om Shanti Om
My first Hindi movie!! The show started at 9.30pm and ended at 1.30am, with 5 intervals in between. And I thought LOTR was long. Though I could not understand Hindi and there were no English subtitles, I managed to follow the storyline with the help of two friends. Other than the duration, I actually enjoyed the show. The songs were nice, dances were energizing, the actors were good-looking and actresses beautiful…
Movies are screened at the gym every Friday night. It’s quite like the real thing, with a wide screen, seats, ticketing booth, ushers and even the bell. For Rs9.00, I think I’ll go back for more.
Folks here are still very conservative when it comes to food. They seldom eat out and when they do, they usually stick to their curry and chapatti. Last Sunday, the MBU folks brought me to a cosy little restaurant serving continental food. Guess they were feeling adventurous. I was pretty curious how western food will turn out in India.
We ordered some starters to share followed by the main course. The food turned out pretty well. I ordered fish on a bed of spinach with mashed potatoes. It came as it was described in the menu, though I would have preferred that they did not add on the layer of cheese on the dish.
We had a great time. They had a lot of fun exploring the different types of food and experimenting with their cutlery. They watched in amazement with the way I cut and handled the fish fillet. I taught them how to use their fork and knife, and also how to eat spaghetti in style by twirling it around the fork.
We shared and discussed the eating practices of different cultures. They could not fathom how one could eat rice with chopsticks! They told me, one should smell, taste and feel their food, only then will the eating experience be wholesome…
Dessert was the star of the dinner. The tiramisu was pleasantly beyond expectations. It had the correct texture and consistency, it would be perfect if they had used better quality cocoa, coffee and liquor.
We went in search for some paan after dinner. Paan is something usually eaten after food to help digestion. It’s sweet, with a mixture of herbs, spices and nuts, wrapped in a leaf. One is supposed to put the whole thing into the mouth and slowly chew. My teeth were unable to take the sweetness, but what’s left was a nice minty freshness in my mouth.
Om Shanti Om
My first Hindi movie!! The show started at 9.30pm and ended at 1.30am, with 5 intervals in between. And I thought LOTR was long. Though I could not understand Hindi and there were no English subtitles, I managed to follow the storyline with the help of two friends. Other than the duration, I actually enjoyed the show. The songs were nice, dances were energizing, the actors were good-looking and actresses beautiful…
Movies are screened at the gym every Friday night. It’s quite like the real thing, with a wide screen, seats, ticketing booth, ushers and even the bell. For Rs9.00, I think I’ll go back for more.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Little Pleasures
1. Sipping tea at the tea board, enjoying the serenity of the campus while watching traffic on the other side of wall blast by...
2. Learning the names of the guest house staff and pronouncing them correctly, and seeing the joy in their eyes when I greet them by their names...
3. Coming back to my room to find Mr Gumby in a different posture and placed at different parts of my bed everyday. Apparently, Mr Gumby has made new friends too and is having alot of fun in the day while I'm at work...
2. Learning the names of the guest house staff and pronouncing them correctly, and seeing the joy in their eyes when I greet them by their names...
3. Coming back to my room to find Mr Gumby in a different posture and placed at different parts of my bed everyday. Apparently, Mr Gumby has made new friends too and is having alot of fun in the day while I'm at work...
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Red, Amber, Green
Red: Experiment did not seem to proceed as intended based on initial assessment…
Amber: Slight tummy upset, probably from lunch which I find a little more spicy today…
Green: The folks in DOC are much friendlier to me and more cooperative this week. I even managed to borrow stuffs from them! Could it be the mooncakes?
Amber: Slight tummy upset, probably from lunch which I find a little more spicy today…
Green: The folks in DOC are much friendlier to me and more cooperative this week. I even managed to borrow stuffs from them! Could it be the mooncakes?
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
My First Experiment
Flashbacks of times in the research laboratory back in NUS and memories came flooding back when I was washing the glassware yesterday, watching over the rotary evaporator this morning and spotting TLC plates earlier... That was so many years ago and those were the days... My first experiment, my first distillation, my first column chromatography, and not forgetting my first broken flask…
One thing is for sure, Now I truly appreciate the environment, facilities and resources we had back then. Chemicals, glassware, solvents, laboratory supplies, etc, they are readily available. Well, the supervisor will sometimes nag and pass some comments if we spend a little too much that month, but it was never an issue. It is a totally different story over here.
I had a lot of difficulty getting started. Chemicals was one factor, the other major factor is that glassware is very limited and many items considered “daily necessities” to us are not available. I had to re-learn the way of doing things, right down to the most basic ones like filtration. I felt like an undergraduate stepping into a research laboratory for the very first time…
Setting up an experiment is thus a challenge. I had to improvise using what is available. After much efforts and of course with a lot of help from BR, I finally started my first experiment today! :)
PS
The institute had the honour to host the visit of the Nepalese Prime Minister today. It was a grand sight. Bus loads of policemen and security guards were deployed around the campus. It’s a pity I did not manage to catch a glimpse of the PM…
One thing is for sure, Now I truly appreciate the environment, facilities and resources we had back then. Chemicals, glassware, solvents, laboratory supplies, etc, they are readily available. Well, the supervisor will sometimes nag and pass some comments if we spend a little too much that month, but it was never an issue. It is a totally different story over here.
I had a lot of difficulty getting started. Chemicals was one factor, the other major factor is that glassware is very limited and many items considered “daily necessities” to us are not available. I had to re-learn the way of doing things, right down to the most basic ones like filtration. I felt like an undergraduate stepping into a research laboratory for the very first time…
Setting up an experiment is thus a challenge. I had to improvise using what is available. After much efforts and of course with a lot of help from BR, I finally started my first experiment today! :)
PS
The institute had the honour to host the visit of the Nepalese Prime Minister today. It was a grand sight. Bus loads of policemen and security guards were deployed around the campus. It’s a pity I did not manage to catch a glimpse of the PM…
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Surprises Pleasant & Not-So-Pleasant
Surprise #1
Wrong compound given!
Supposed to start the experiment today after getting the starting material. Good thing we decided to perform an infrared test to confirm the functionality before using it for the experiment and found that the starting material given was not the compound that it was supposed to be! As a result we had to set up the experiment to perform the conversion of the compound to the correct functionality.
Surprise #2
BR asked what time I had to go and if 6.00pm is fine with me. I said ok until I realized he had meant to start the experiment at 6.00pm! As it was only 4.00pm, I asked if we could start earlier. He obliged and so we went about setting up the experiment and started it by 6.00pm.
However, I found out later that as a result, he had missed afternoon snack. Oops…
Surprise #3
A visitor from Singapore! Brought me mooncakes too!!! :)
Wrong compound given!
Supposed to start the experiment today after getting the starting material. Good thing we decided to perform an infrared test to confirm the functionality before using it for the experiment and found that the starting material given was not the compound that it was supposed to be! As a result we had to set up the experiment to perform the conversion of the compound to the correct functionality.
Surprise #2
BR asked what time I had to go and if 6.00pm is fine with me. I said ok until I realized he had meant to start the experiment at 6.00pm! As it was only 4.00pm, I asked if we could start earlier. He obliged and so we went about setting up the experiment and started it by 6.00pm.
However, I found out later that as a result, he had missed afternoon snack. Oops…
Surprise #3
A visitor from Singapore! Brought me mooncakes too!!! :)
Monday, September 15, 2008
Cleaning
All things start with cleaning. I managed to put together some glassware from all corners and nooks and the first work I did in the laboratory was to clean them.
I was handling cleaning validation for reaction vessels with capacity of 20,000L back in Singapore. Now in India, I’m still doing cleaning, only that the reaction flasks I handle now are not more than 100mL in size…
As I was scrubbing along, my thoughts went to the folks on the CNDE project. They were having cleaning issues with the equipment before I left. Have those been resolved already? How’s the project progressing now? Are the wet runs going smoothly? Have the operational qualification protocols been approved yet?
I could only wish them all the best silently in my heart. Here, I have a separate set of challenges to face and battles to fight...
I was handling cleaning validation for reaction vessels with capacity of 20,000L back in Singapore. Now in India, I’m still doing cleaning, only that the reaction flasks I handle now are not more than 100mL in size…
As I was scrubbing along, my thoughts went to the folks on the CNDE project. They were having cleaning issues with the equipment before I left. Have those been resolved already? How’s the project progressing now? Are the wet runs going smoothly? Have the operational qualification protocols been approved yet?
I could only wish them all the best silently in my heart. Here, I have a separate set of challenges to face and battles to fight...
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Reflections: Week 1, 09-Sep-08 to 13-Sep-08
GETTING STARTED
One week. Getting started is always the hardest. The compass needle is spinning and yet it is unable to point out where the true north is. The chef is all set to whip up a big meal only to find that the larder is empty. The engine is raring to go but the car is stuck in a massive jam…
Looking back at the past 10 days, I had rammed into walls, encountered road blocks, was overloaded with information, fell into a valley and climbed out of it.
I had settled down quickly and fine, like how one chemistry graduate described it, I have “precipitated”. That had probably made me complacent. What I need now is a “recrystallization” to get that big solid crystal…
ROAD HUMPS
Road humps are a pain when one is going at high speed. Big ones, gentle ones, they are there for a purpose. Located strategically, they force one to slow down and re-assess the situation. Until one learnt to moderate one’s speed, the ride will be rough. I went over many road humps and bumpy ones too. I have come to realize that I need to adjust my pace and expectations, and to take things one step at a time. Next time I see a road hump, I will appreciate its presence and promptly step on my brakes.
PRECIOUS MOMENTS
Transitions were never easy, regardless of how much preparations were done before hand. Words of wisdom and encouragement gave me strength to ride over stormy seas. Heart warming emails and smses saw me through loneliness and brought me sunshine when the skies are grey.
To put it simply, be it emails or messages, phone calls or smses, long or short, each and every one is precious… So, please do keep them coming! :)
One week. Getting started is always the hardest. The compass needle is spinning and yet it is unable to point out where the true north is. The chef is all set to whip up a big meal only to find that the larder is empty. The engine is raring to go but the car is stuck in a massive jam…
Looking back at the past 10 days, I had rammed into walls, encountered road blocks, was overloaded with information, fell into a valley and climbed out of it.
I had settled down quickly and fine, like how one chemistry graduate described it, I have “precipitated”. That had probably made me complacent. What I need now is a “recrystallization” to get that big solid crystal…
ROAD HUMPS
Road humps are a pain when one is going at high speed. Big ones, gentle ones, they are there for a purpose. Located strategically, they force one to slow down and re-assess the situation. Until one learnt to moderate one’s speed, the ride will be rough. I went over many road humps and bumpy ones too. I have come to realize that I need to adjust my pace and expectations, and to take things one step at a time. Next time I see a road hump, I will appreciate its presence and promptly step on my brakes.
PRECIOUS MOMENTS
Transitions were never easy, regardless of how much preparations were done before hand. Words of wisdom and encouragement gave me strength to ride over stormy seas. Heart warming emails and smses saw me through loneliness and brought me sunshine when the skies are grey.
To put it simply, be it emails or messages, phone calls or smses, long or short, each and every one is precious… So, please do keep them coming! :)
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Working Saturdays: 13-Sep-08
It felt weird to have to go to work on a Saturday. It’s a 6-day work week here and that I’ll have to follow.
In research and the academia, there’s no definite start or end time. Time is determined by one’s experiments and there’s total freedom in how much time one wants to spend in the laboratory. With freedom, comes responsibility. One needs to be really disciplined as it’s very easy to get complacent when there's no 'big brother' around.
I make it a point to be in the laboratory by 9.00am everyday. As much as I dislike routines, I need some kind of routine for me to function efficiently. One needs routine to settle down into a comfort zone, yet unrest kicks in when one gets too comfortable doing similar things over and over again. Life is full of such contradictions…
Called it a day about 5.30pm and went for a run, since there’s nothing much that I can do in the laboratory for now and it’s a Saturday anyway. One of the folks told me about Jubilee Gardens behind where I stayed, there I found some nice trails and an extension to my current route. The plan is 30min route on weekdays and 1hr route for weekends.
Morning is a better time to run. I get too much attention in the evenings, from mozzies & the other beings…
In research and the academia, there’s no definite start or end time. Time is determined by one’s experiments and there’s total freedom in how much time one wants to spend in the laboratory. With freedom, comes responsibility. One needs to be really disciplined as it’s very easy to get complacent when there's no 'big brother' around.
I make it a point to be in the laboratory by 9.00am everyday. As much as I dislike routines, I need some kind of routine for me to function efficiently. One needs routine to settle down into a comfort zone, yet unrest kicks in when one gets too comfortable doing similar things over and over again. Life is full of such contradictions…
Called it a day about 5.30pm and went for a run, since there’s nothing much that I can do in the laboratory for now and it’s a Saturday anyway. One of the folks told me about Jubilee Gardens behind where I stayed, there I found some nice trails and an extension to my current route. The plan is 30min route on weekdays and 1hr route for weekends.
Morning is a better time to run. I get too much attention in the evenings, from mozzies & the other beings…
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Patience: 11-Sep-08
It’s another unproductive day at work. Talked to Prof RV on the progress of things and we decided we could work on the other compound while waiting for the chemicals to come in. Feeling excited, I went over to chemistry department only to find out that the person whom I’m supposed to share the bench top and glassware with, has been sick. All his stuffs were locked up in the drawers… Sigh… When can I finally get started?
As I dwelled on the all the things that I wanted to do but had my hands bounded, I’m reminded of the following verse:
“For everything there is a season,
And a time for every matter under heaven:
A time to be born, and a time to die;
A time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;
A time to kill, and a time to heal;
A time to break down, and a time to build up;
A time to weep, and a time to laugh;
A time to mourn, and a time to dance;
A time to throw away stones, and a time to gather stones together;
A time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
A time to seek, and a time to lose;
A time to keep, and a time to throw away;
A time to tear, and a time to sew;
A time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
A time to love, and a time to hate,
A time for war, and a time for peace.”
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
Patience… The time will come.
Quote of the day:
“现在能闲着就好好珍惜，感受一下周围，听一下分子的震动，吸收来自太阳光子的冲击。”
As I dwelled on the all the things that I wanted to do but had my hands bounded, I’m reminded of the following verse:
“For everything there is a season,
And a time for every matter under heaven:
A time to be born, and a time to die;
A time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;
A time to kill, and a time to heal;
A time to break down, and a time to build up;
A time to weep, and a time to laugh;
A time to mourn, and a time to dance;
A time to throw away stones, and a time to gather stones together;
A time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
A time to seek, and a time to lose;
A time to keep, and a time to throw away;
A time to tear, and a time to sew;
A time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
A time to love, and a time to hate,
A time for war, and a time for peace.”
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
Patience… The time will come.
Quote of the day:
“现在能闲着就好好珍惜，感受一下周围，听一下分子的震动，吸收来自太阳光子的冲击。”
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Valley Point: 10-Sep-08
Morning Run
Have been waking up against my will at 4am everyday since Sunday, that’s 6.30am Singapore time, the time I get up to go to work in Tuas. Perhaps my body is still adjusting to the time zone and number of hours of sleep here. Or maybe it’s just me getting old, as they say older people need less sleep and wake up early…
Instead of lying awake feeling frustrated, I decided to go for a run. The institute is much peaceful in the early morning though the traffic outside was already roaring away at 6.30am. I ran past one runner and 3 other joggers, security guards formed up for their morning briefing, Indian ladies taking up their places to sweep away the leaves from the ground. At one point, I reached what seemed like a dead end, when a student on a bicycle rode by me and into the woods. Could there be a trail? Where does it lead to?
It was a good 45 minutes run, with enough time to stretch, shower, have breakfast and be in the laboratory by 9.00am.
Road Blocks
There were road blocks everywhere today. Every turn I make, it’s a road block. At every junction, it had to be a red light.
As much as I try to keep positive, situations defied all my efforts and my engine was worn down by the constant re-ignition and idling. It’s tough to get things done over at the Other department, for everything “Please ask Sir, only if Sir say so.” Even when ‘Sir’ had told me I could use anywhere I like and order anything I want.
After 2 days, I’m still trying hard to get a bench space allocated. My heart sank when I saw the few scattered flasks in the drawers that “I can use”. I’ll probably need at least a few days to sort out the glassware and clean them up, and the bench of course, before any proper work can be done. The chemicals I needed were not available in the laboratory and had to be ordered. Getting help to get quotations for the chemicals was painfully difficult. All the time, I was tossed around like an unwanted ball, for even the tiniest matter, I was told to refer to ‘Sir’. I lost count of the number of times I went in and out of his office.
I found out there is a second laboratory dedicated for synthesis of the molecule that I’m supposed to work on. Familiar setups and apparatus, it looked like the chemistry laboratory I’m used to. I requested to work in that laboratory instead because of its conducive environment. Again, “Please ask Sir, only if Sir say so.” came the reply.
With no chemicals available, I could not start any experiments. Spent the rest of the afternoon looking through past experiments for the synthesis, trying to understand the various steps and procedures. I’ve got a strong urge to synthesize the molecule myself rather than to depend on others…
Lost in Transition
Another day of no achievements. It’s already Wednesday and everything is still at where we started off. Drained by the day’s events, my morale went downhill. Everyday, I look forward to emails at the end of the day but no emails for me this evening. Sadly, I packed up and made my way back.
Down the long, straight road that leads to the guest house, rustling sound of the leaves on overhanging branches, the air cool and moist from the earlier downpour, I slowly walked, counting the number of days amidst the shadows on the ground and thinking of things back home. Suddenly my vision blurred... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sa2I7IefI1Y
It’s only my 6th day here in Bangalore. I wondered… How will I survive 6 months?
Have been waking up against my will at 4am everyday since Sunday, that’s 6.30am Singapore time, the time I get up to go to work in Tuas. Perhaps my body is still adjusting to the time zone and number of hours of sleep here. Or maybe it’s just me getting old, as they say older people need less sleep and wake up early…
Instead of lying awake feeling frustrated, I decided to go for a run. The institute is much peaceful in the early morning though the traffic outside was already roaring away at 6.30am. I ran past one runner and 3 other joggers, security guards formed up for their morning briefing, Indian ladies taking up their places to sweep away the leaves from the ground. At one point, I reached what seemed like a dead end, when a student on a bicycle rode by me and into the woods. Could there be a trail? Where does it lead to?
It was a good 45 minutes run, with enough time to stretch, shower, have breakfast and be in the laboratory by 9.00am.
Road Blocks
There were road blocks everywhere today. Every turn I make, it’s a road block. At every junction, it had to be a red light.
As much as I try to keep positive, situations defied all my efforts and my engine was worn down by the constant re-ignition and idling. It’s tough to get things done over at the Other department, for everything “Please ask Sir, only if Sir say so.” Even when ‘Sir’ had told me I could use anywhere I like and order anything I want.
After 2 days, I’m still trying hard to get a bench space allocated. My heart sank when I saw the few scattered flasks in the drawers that “I can use”. I’ll probably need at least a few days to sort out the glassware and clean them up, and the bench of course, before any proper work can be done. The chemicals I needed were not available in the laboratory and had to be ordered. Getting help to get quotations for the chemicals was painfully difficult. All the time, I was tossed around like an unwanted ball, for even the tiniest matter, I was told to refer to ‘Sir’. I lost count of the number of times I went in and out of his office.
I found out there is a second laboratory dedicated for synthesis of the molecule that I’m supposed to work on. Familiar setups and apparatus, it looked like the chemistry laboratory I’m used to. I requested to work in that laboratory instead because of its conducive environment. Again, “Please ask Sir, only if Sir say so.” came the reply.
With no chemicals available, I could not start any experiments. Spent the rest of the afternoon looking through past experiments for the synthesis, trying to understand the various steps and procedures. I’ve got a strong urge to synthesize the molecule myself rather than to depend on others…
Lost in Transition
Another day of no achievements. It’s already Wednesday and everything is still at where we started off. Drained by the day’s events, my morale went downhill. Everyday, I look forward to emails at the end of the day but no emails for me this evening. Sadly, I packed up and made my way back.
Down the long, straight road that leads to the guest house, rustling sound of the leaves on overhanging branches, the air cool and moist from the earlier downpour, I slowly walked, counting the number of days amidst the shadows on the ground and thinking of things back home. Suddenly my vision blurred... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sa2I7IefI1Y
It’s only my 6th day here in Bangalore. I wondered… How will I survive 6 months?
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Day 02 at Work: 09-Sep-08
Ran between MBU and Organic Chemistry department umpteen times today, searching for literature, trying to identify chemical reagents and their availability, source for bench space and glassware, confirm experimental procedures… Nothing seems to be ready for the project. No chemicals, no procedures, no bench space allocated… Everything has to start from scratch. Managed to find 2 literature papers that seemed useful. Spent quite some time finalizing the procedure today.
Professor RV is very enthusiastic in getting the project started. He’s understanding though, that we need to get things set up, order the chemicals, make arrangements with Organic Chemistry department on bench space and stuffs. After all, it’s not our laboratory and we need their cooperation. Hopefully we can sort out the logistical issues and get some experiments going by this week.
Ujjwal treated all the folks in Professor RV’s group to tea today. Reason: he won the Mr Freshie award during the welcome party last Friday. During tea, they joked that this is a good tradition and since I’m also considered a freshie and I should give them a treat as well.
My laundry finally came back after 2 days and many reminders, and WET. I feedback to the guest house staff, “Tomorrow, Ma’am”, he said. Earlier on, I asked another staff about setting up internet connections on my laptop as til today, I have not been successful despite many attempts. “Tomorrow”, again was the reply. It seems that “Tomorrow” is always the solution...
I’m having marbles in my head. Culprit is probably the air in the chemistry laboratory today. That familiar smell and the good old days…
Professor RV is very enthusiastic in getting the project started. He’s understanding though, that we need to get things set up, order the chemicals, make arrangements with Organic Chemistry department on bench space and stuffs. After all, it’s not our laboratory and we need their cooperation. Hopefully we can sort out the logistical issues and get some experiments going by this week.
Ujjwal treated all the folks in Professor RV’s group to tea today. Reason: he won the Mr Freshie award during the welcome party last Friday. During tea, they joked that this is a good tradition and since I’m also considered a freshie and I should give them a treat as well.
My laundry finally came back after 2 days and many reminders, and WET. I feedback to the guest house staff, “Tomorrow, Ma’am”, he said. Earlier on, I asked another staff about setting up internet connections on my laptop as til today, I have not been successful despite many attempts. “Tomorrow”, again was the reply. It seems that “Tomorrow” is always the solution...
I’m having marbles in my head. Culprit is probably the air in the chemistry laboratory today. That familiar smell and the good old days…
Monday, September 8, 2008
Day 01 at Work: 08-Sep-08
First day at work, met up with Professor NJ from the Organic Chemistry Department. We’ll be using the molecules synthesized in his laboratory to couple with the HIV protein isolated in Professor RV laboratory.
Spent the day searching the internet looking up references and reading up on literature pertaining to the coupling reaction. Will need to check if the necessary chemicals are available in the laboratory.
Joined the folks for lunch at the mess. Most of them stayed in the hostels and pay a monthly charge for food. Guests need to be signed in and the amount will be charged to the host. I did not know about that, until I asked about payment, then I realized lunch is on Bharat, as he’s the one who signed me in.
The sky opened up just when I was about to go back. I waited a little while and the rain simmered down to a light drizzle. Feeling saturated from all the new information, I decided to take a slow walk back. The fresh crisp air in the coolness of the night is welcoming while I pass between the raindrops. A cold shower followed by a cup of hot chamomile tea awaits.
A sudden loud crashing sound broke through the gentle melody of the night. Startled, I looked out of the window only to see darkness. I got back to my writing. Worried, I called the office. 5 minutes passed, a sudden burst of door bell shook me out of my thoughts. It’s the guest house staff. With a smile, he assured me it’s only the rain and falling branches and there are people patrolling outside. Should there be anything, I could call him again.
I hope I get to sleep well tonight. Tomorrow will be another long day…
Quote of the day:
“屋外雨落狂，屋内茶香静。丝丝音律飘，静思一日勤。"
Spent the day searching the internet looking up references and reading up on literature pertaining to the coupling reaction. Will need to check if the necessary chemicals are available in the laboratory.
Joined the folks for lunch at the mess. Most of them stayed in the hostels and pay a monthly charge for food. Guests need to be signed in and the amount will be charged to the host. I did not know about that, until I asked about payment, then I realized lunch is on Bharat, as he’s the one who signed me in.
The sky opened up just when I was about to go back. I waited a little while and the rain simmered down to a light drizzle. Feeling saturated from all the new information, I decided to take a slow walk back. The fresh crisp air in the coolness of the night is welcoming while I pass between the raindrops. A cold shower followed by a cup of hot chamomile tea awaits.
A sudden loud crashing sound broke through the gentle melody of the night. Startled, I looked out of the window only to see darkness. I got back to my writing. Worried, I called the office. 5 minutes passed, a sudden burst of door bell shook me out of my thoughts. It’s the guest house staff. With a smile, he assured me it’s only the rain and falling branches and there are people patrolling outside. Should there be anything, I could call him again.
I hope I get to sleep well tonight. Tomorrow will be another long day…
Quote of the day:
“屋外雨落狂，屋内茶香静。丝丝音律飘，静思一日勤。"
Sunday, September 7, 2008
First Days in Bangalore: 07-Sep-08
Sunday
I woke up to the pattering of raindrops on the leaves in the trees outside my room. Another rainy day. I stayed in bed for a little while, listening to the rhythm of the rain and soaking in the serenity.
Breakfast is hot Milo with bread and peanut butter jam. Yummy... I boiled water to fill up my 1L Nalgene bottle. I decided to attempt porridge with baby anchovies for dinner again. I boiled more water and put the rice and anchovies into the slow cooker.
Had planned to go to town today to get some fruits. However, I looked at the sky outside and took out Lonely Planet India to read and studied the city map book instead. Spent the afternoon writing, the rain and a good night’s rest somehow got my inspirations coming.
Finally by evening, the sun was out! Went for a short run around the institute, my first workout in 3 months. My fitness has since dropped to zero, I was already panting hard on flat ground just 10 minutes into the run. I had initially intended to do a 30min run, however, as I explored the surroundings, the run slowly stretched to an hour. It felt good to be running again. Most importantly, my feet seems fine after the run. No arch pain!
Dinner has been stewing since 11.30am this morning. The sweet smell of anchovies tantalizing my senses, feeling relaxed after a nice cold shower, I sat down to enjoy my dinner with the accompaniment of soft music from my laptop. Porridge never tasted this good…
I’m feeling excited to be working in the laboratory again. I’ve got my safety shoes, safety glasses and laboratory coat ready. Work will officially start tomorrow.
I received 4 smses today. Happyness!
I woke up to the pattering of raindrops on the leaves in the trees outside my room. Another rainy day. I stayed in bed for a little while, listening to the rhythm of the rain and soaking in the serenity.
Breakfast is hot Milo with bread and peanut butter jam. Yummy... I boiled water to fill up my 1L Nalgene bottle. I decided to attempt porridge with baby anchovies for dinner again. I boiled more water and put the rice and anchovies into the slow cooker.
Had planned to go to town today to get some fruits. However, I looked at the sky outside and took out Lonely Planet India to read and studied the city map book instead. Spent the afternoon writing, the rain and a good night’s rest somehow got my inspirations coming.
Finally by evening, the sun was out! Went for a short run around the institute, my first workout in 3 months. My fitness has since dropped to zero, I was already panting hard on flat ground just 10 minutes into the run. I had initially intended to do a 30min run, however, as I explored the surroundings, the run slowly stretched to an hour. It felt good to be running again. Most importantly, my feet seems fine after the run. No arch pain!
Dinner has been stewing since 11.30am this morning. The sweet smell of anchovies tantalizing my senses, feeling relaxed after a nice cold shower, I sat down to enjoy my dinner with the accompaniment of soft music from my laptop. Porridge never tasted this good…
I’m feeling excited to be working in the laboratory again. I’ve got my safety shoes, safety glasses and laboratory coat ready. Work will officially start tomorrow.
I received 4 smses today. Happyness!
First Days in Bangalore: 06-Sep-08
Settling In
Time seems to come to a standstill in this place, or perhaps it’s me, unconsciously trying to shut out the noisy traffic and never ending sounding of horns in the busy streets. I walked to town, checked out the bank, mobile plans, found out that the price of apples increases with proximity to town, bought an adapter, a pair of slippers, some bread and peanut butter. I lost count of the number of times I crossed the same street. It felt like ages that I have spent in town but when I decided to head back for dinner, I realized it has only been less than 2 hours…
I had fallen in love with the tea served at the tea & coffee board. Heavenly is the fragrance of the tea coupled with the richness of the milk. I have not tasted tea as lovely as this and all for only 4.50 rupees… I stopped at the tea & coffee board again on my way back. I had tea and an egg puff this time. Another satisfying treat.
I realized that I can cope with harsh living conditions much better than technical glitches. Spent the whole afternoon trying to set up internet connections on my laptop. It worked for a couple of minutes and then the connection was lost, despite excellent Wi-Fi signal. Frustrated, tired and drained, I decided I will try again another time, only to come back to my room to find out that the slow cooker wasn’t heating up at all. I had used that power point with my kettle and it boils my water well. So why isn’t it heating up my slow cooker? Sigh… Dinner will be late…
A refreshing cold shower always helps at such times. At least I got that sorted out. The shower head comes with 3 taps. I had the wrong combination the day before and I had to make do with pails on the first day.
Dinner is porridge with baby anchovies, I got to add less water and more baby anchovies next time. Yes, I got my slow cooker working! Haha.. I did nothing, just tried my luck and plug it to another power point and it works!
It’s now raining heavily outside. That should keep the mozzies away for tonight. Someone told me that there are no mosquitoes in Bangalore because it’s at 2000m above sea level. The ones here are at least 3 times the size of those back home. The bites counter has been ticking away...
Time seems to come to a standstill in this place, or perhaps it’s me, unconsciously trying to shut out the noisy traffic and never ending sounding of horns in the busy streets. I walked to town, checked out the bank, mobile plans, found out that the price of apples increases with proximity to town, bought an adapter, a pair of slippers, some bread and peanut butter. I lost count of the number of times I crossed the same street. It felt like ages that I have spent in town but when I decided to head back for dinner, I realized it has only been less than 2 hours…
I had fallen in love with the tea served at the tea & coffee board. Heavenly is the fragrance of the tea coupled with the richness of the milk. I have not tasted tea as lovely as this and all for only 4.50 rupees… I stopped at the tea & coffee board again on my way back. I had tea and an egg puff this time. Another satisfying treat.
I realized that I can cope with harsh living conditions much better than technical glitches. Spent the whole afternoon trying to set up internet connections on my laptop. It worked for a couple of minutes and then the connection was lost, despite excellent Wi-Fi signal. Frustrated, tired and drained, I decided I will try again another time, only to come back to my room to find out that the slow cooker wasn’t heating up at all. I had used that power point with my kettle and it boils my water well. So why isn’t it heating up my slow cooker? Sigh… Dinner will be late…
A refreshing cold shower always helps at such times. At least I got that sorted out. The shower head comes with 3 taps. I had the wrong combination the day before and I had to make do with pails on the first day.
Dinner is porridge with baby anchovies, I got to add less water and more baby anchovies next time. Yes, I got my slow cooker working! Haha.. I did nothing, just tried my luck and plug it to another power point and it works!
It’s now raining heavily outside. That should keep the mozzies away for tonight. Someone told me that there are no mosquitoes in Bangalore because it’s at 2000m above sea level. The ones here are at least 3 times the size of those back home. The bites counter has been ticking away...
First Days in Bangalore: 05-Sep-08
My New Home
Home is room number 39 at the guest house in the Indian Institute of Science. Quiet little place hidden away at one end of the institute, surrounded by greenery and serenaded by the songs of the birds. A single bed, a wardrobe and a writing desk furnished the room, which comes with an attached bathroom with hot shower. A 6-panel window looks out into a forested area. There is even a television and an air-conditioning unit!
So here I am, alone in my room with little Gumby by the side, sitting at the corner of my bed, penning this journal entry. Everything seems so surreal…
First Impressions
I was greeted by the spanking new and spacious Bangalore International Airport on arrival. Navigating it was easy and coming out of the airport, a row of men in white holding placards were looking earnestly at each and every arriving passenger. It was not til the end of the row that I found Kumar, holding a sign, on it written, “Dr Kee Leng”.
It was a cool and breezy day. Pockets of blue sky peeped through the thick clouds, paving way for the warm sun rays. Kumar signaled me to wait at the pick-up point while he gets the car. A friendly young lad 22 years of age with a sweet and shy smile, he has been assigned by the travel agency where he had worked for 2 years, to fetch me to the institute. “No problem, Ma’am”, those were his favorite words.
The car ride to the institute was smooth, no massive jams or free-roaming cows crossing the streets as what others had pre-empted me, though the traffic is heavy and horns blasted into the dusty air intermittently. I noticed our car is short of the left wing mirror. Kumar skillfully steered our little car through the trucks, cars, autos and two-wheelers coming from all directions, and before long, we turned right to a sign with blue words on a white background “Indian Institute of Science”.
MBU Family
MBU stands for Molecular Biophysics Unit. That’s where I’ll be working for the many weeks to come. Professor Raghavan brought me on a quick tour to the laboratory and introduced me to the members of the research group, made up mostly of ladies. The open air laboratory has a nostalgic feel to it, especially the wooden benches and drawers. Overflowing shelves, notices on the walls yellow with age, there is an orderliness in the disarray of things and activities, as I quietly observed the folks get about with their work.
Likhesh, an integrated PhD student, took time to show me around the campus and the various facilities available. The institute, also known as the Tata Institute, has a rustic environment and a 100-year old building which housed the administration. We stopped by the Tata Book House to get a copy of the city map and he treated me to tea at the tea & coffee board. Afternoon snack and tea is an important part of the life in the institute, I learnt.
The MBU is a homely and closely knit family. There was a welcome party for the fresh PhD students, post-doctorate fellows and research project assistants that evening. I was promptly invited on the spot. At the party, tribute was first paid to all the professors followed by a formal introduction of all the new members of the family. I was also introduced as a “freshie”.
The highlight of the program was a musical-skit which drew lots of laughter from the highly entertained crowd. The evening of poetry, song and dance ended with the crowning of Mr and Miss Freshie, followed by a sumptuous buffet dinner.
A New Beginning
It has been a long but pleasant day for me. Tired and exhausted from the day’s travels and happenings, while enriched by the sights and sounds of this new place.
This is the beginning of my 6-month stay in Bangalore.
Home is room number 39 at the guest house in the Indian Institute of Science. Quiet little place hidden away at one end of the institute, surrounded by greenery and serenaded by the songs of the birds. A single bed, a wardrobe and a writing desk furnished the room, which comes with an attached bathroom with hot shower. A 6-panel window looks out into a forested area. There is even a television and an air-conditioning unit!
So here I am, alone in my room with little Gumby by the side, sitting at the corner of my bed, penning this journal entry. Everything seems so surreal…
First Impressions
I was greeted by the spanking new and spacious Bangalore International Airport on arrival. Navigating it was easy and coming out of the airport, a row of men in white holding placards were looking earnestly at each and every arriving passenger. It was not til the end of the row that I found Kumar, holding a sign, on it written, “Dr Kee Leng”.
It was a cool and breezy day. Pockets of blue sky peeped through the thick clouds, paving way for the warm sun rays. Kumar signaled me to wait at the pick-up point while he gets the car. A friendly young lad 22 years of age with a sweet and shy smile, he has been assigned by the travel agency where he had worked for 2 years, to fetch me to the institute. “No problem, Ma’am”, those were his favorite words.
The car ride to the institute was smooth, no massive jams or free-roaming cows crossing the streets as what others had pre-empted me, though the traffic is heavy and horns blasted into the dusty air intermittently. I noticed our car is short of the left wing mirror. Kumar skillfully steered our little car through the trucks, cars, autos and two-wheelers coming from all directions, and before long, we turned right to a sign with blue words on a white background “Indian Institute of Science”.
MBU Family
MBU stands for Molecular Biophysics Unit. That’s where I’ll be working for the many weeks to come. Professor Raghavan brought me on a quick tour to the laboratory and introduced me to the members of the research group, made up mostly of ladies. The open air laboratory has a nostalgic feel to it, especially the wooden benches and drawers. Overflowing shelves, notices on the walls yellow with age, there is an orderliness in the disarray of things and activities, as I quietly observed the folks get about with their work.
Likhesh, an integrated PhD student, took time to show me around the campus and the various facilities available. The institute, also known as the Tata Institute, has a rustic environment and a 100-year old building which housed the administration. We stopped by the Tata Book House to get a copy of the city map and he treated me to tea at the tea & coffee board. Afternoon snack and tea is an important part of the life in the institute, I learnt.
The MBU is a homely and closely knit family. There was a welcome party for the fresh PhD students, post-doctorate fellows and research project assistants that evening. I was promptly invited on the spot. At the party, tribute was first paid to all the professors followed by a formal introduction of all the new members of the family. I was also introduced as a “freshie”.
The highlight of the program was a musical-skit which drew lots of laughter from the highly entertained crowd. The evening of poetry, song and dance ended with the crowning of Mr and Miss Freshie, followed by a sumptuous buffet dinner.
A New Beginning
It has been a long but pleasant day for me. Tired and exhausted from the day’s travels and happenings, while enriched by the sights and sounds of this new place.
This is the beginning of my 6-month stay in Bangalore.
Sunday, April 6, 2008
First Aid
4 hours apart, 2 first aid cases, 1 first aider.
it was a friday evening and it was to be an eventful one. there was my company's first ice skating event earlier in the evening, and there was the 55km overnight training later in the night. in both events, i had the opportunity to apply my first aid knowledge.
at the fuji ice palace at jurong entertainment centre, most colleagues were holding on precariously to the handrails as they moved slowly along the rink. instruction classes were provided to teach colleagues basic moves such as balancing, recovery after a fall, walk on ice, glide, swivel and stop. slowly, more colleagues gained confidence and started to venture out into the centre of rink, practising their newly acquired moves.
suddenly, there was a commotion and colleague SM was lying face down on the ice, one hand holding against his back. it was apparent that Sm had a fall. someone said he sprained his back. there were many people surrounding him - instructors and colleagues, but after a while, it seems that nothing is being done. SM was conscious and he appeared to be trying to tell those around him something, his hands pointing here and there.
having trained in first aid, i thought perhaps i could be of help so i moved over and assessed the situation. so it turned out that SM was trying to give instructions to those around him. "i'm trained in first aid", SM told those around. "get something to support my leg", he said.
colleagues brought him jackets to place under his leg for insulation from the ice and he took it off. "that won't work", he said. a few others got some plastic sheets and that was wrong too. he wanted something "hard". so someone brought in a big piece of wooden plank. that got rejected as well. he refused to be moved into a more comfortable position too. what is happening? what does he wants?
my mind was taking in all these observations and analyzing the situation at the fastest speed possible. his posture, he wants support for his leg, something hard... i asked SM, "where are you in pain?" SM did not reply me, but someone nearby remarked, "i think his leg is broken, look at the funny angle..."
that is it! suddenly, i got the whole picture. he wanted a splint for his leg! silly me, i should have thought of that earlier.
immediately, i looked around to see what could be used to improvise a splint. nothing much in sight that's useful. i got the staff to look for some cardboard boxes and strings. he came back with shortly after with a cardboard box. he couldn't find any strings so he got some cellophane tape instead. another staff suggested, "can we use the laces from the skates?" brilliant idea.
without any delay, AT, MS, VC and myself, with the help of the staff, created a splint for SM and immobilized his leg. only then, SM cooperated with us to move him to a more comfortable position while waiting for the civil defence guys to fetch him to hospital.
*phew* we all heaved a sign of relief.
"someone who is first aid trained, is a difficult casualty", i thought...
--------------------------------------
barely 4 hours later, another first aid case occurred. this time, the casualty is the first aider.
less than 2 hours into our 55km overnight run, i accidentally double tripped over uneven surface on the pavement and landed flat on the ground about a metre ahead.
as i slowly sat up, a concerned IN rushed over to check on my injuries. still recovering from shock, my immediate reaction was "don't touch me!" poor gal, she must have got a shock as well. i apologized to her after that, glad that she was very understanding and accepted my apologies.
status check:
right shoulder - slight abrasion with blood oozing
right wrist and fingers - cuts
right palm - cuts with blood oozing
right thigh - light cuts over the length of thigh
left knee - abrasion and cuts with bleeding at two areas
face - OK!!
i moved myself to somewhere there is light. good thing i packed my first aid kit for the run. never expected i'll need to use it though.
as i dressed my wounds, the rest looked on. SW poured water onto my bleeding knee, AL took out a dressing and SL opened it up. CS suggested i should tape the dressing... i wanted to use my own dressing, another remarked it wouldn't hold... finally, when i heard the advice, "listen to her, she's trained in first aid.", i replied, "i'm trained in first aid too.."
oops.. guessed trained first aiders are indeed difficult casualties! :P
Friday, March 14, 2008
happyness
i woke up to the sweet scent of fresh morning dew. white fluffy clouds waltzing across the clear blue skies. sunshine!!! oh, how i missed this familiar warmth...
my whole world immediately brightens up as i embrace this beautiful new day with a smile of contentment. i've not felt so peaceful for a long time...
there's a piece of chai tow kuey, three freshly baked pong piahs, a slice of banana cake in crispy coconut crust and a packet of aromatic kopi siu dai on my desk today, compliments of caring colleagues. that covers breakfast and tea breaks for the day.
this is happyness... :)
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