I Wish!!!!

"Your wish is my command", said the genie.When is my genie going to come alive??? Nevertheless,I wouldn't stop wishing.It's the one thing that has no boundaries!!!!

I wish I could spend one whole day at a beautiful beach simply staring into the sea.
I wish I could visit the most beautiful places in and around the world as just a traveller
I wish I could quit my job and stay at home cooking delicious food and feeding the needy
I wish I could spend all the time I want with my friends and family
I wish I could listen to music all day and do nothing else
I wish I could click endless pictures of life around me
I wish I could understand the life of one other human being and the complexities involved
I wish I could read all the books ever written in this world
I wish I could watch all the movies ever made
I wish I could try every adventure sport there is
I wish I could learn all life lessons from my parents
I wish I could teach somebody everything I knew
I wish I could change the political system in our country
I wish I could go to the moon
I wish I never had to grow up
I wish I loved somebody more than anybody in the universe could
I wish I could be as selfless and helpful as all the great people
I wish I could be everywhere at once
I wish I was invisible to be where I want to be without being noticed
I wish I could play a sport and excel in it
I wish I could become a playback singer
I wish I could understand the language a baby speaks
I wish I could teach every human being to smile through pain
I wish I could live the life of a pet dog
I wish I never have to stop wishing
I wish I wish I wish.. if only wishes came true!!!

-Sharanya

Namma Veettu Saapaadu - Ammavin Kai Manam!!!

Heard about Namma Veettu Saapaadu( and no, it's not a branch of Namma Veedu Vasantha Bhavan.. :p)  first time on CFG when a tag line contest was going on( I won it with the tag line - Rasikka rusikka manamanakka, enga veetu saapadu unga veettu saapadu illa, Namma Veettu saapadu.. ;)!!).So when I had the chance to sample the food , I did not hesitate for a second.

True to the name - we were invited home to try the food.A warm welcome into the lovely home where 'Namma Veettu Saapadu' food is prepared.Happy faces and pleasing welcomes are always a delight.After a round of clicking pictures and drooling at the amazing spread of food in front of us, we finally decide to start with the finger food.First in line was the 'Fish Kola Urundai'. This was simply amazing and the 20 pieces vanished in no time.

The beauty of the concept here is that all the food is home cooked and made with loads of  love and care and no additional preservatives or oil or anything unhealthy for that matter.The idea was conceptualized to serve large quantities of side dish for a family or a gathering of people when it is difficult to prepare a meal. I've personally wished there was a service like this on days when the house undergoes a major cleaning schedule or when my entire family is tired and nobody is in a mood to cook anything elaborate but are craving for some yummy non vegetarian food.

The menu is varied.It has every variety of non vegetarian you can think of.Literally a non veg lover's paradise.Each portion serves 4 or 6 people depending on the dish.If you're in a corporate office and tired of canteen lunch, this is the place to order!!The order needs to be placed before 10AM for same day delivery.This is done to ensure you get the freshest of sea food and so that the food is delivered hot and nice.The other awesome thing is you can customize the menu to anything you like and get the taste altered to your liking.

Here are all the dishes we got to try:

1. Nandu Podimas
2. Prawns Curry
3. Meen Kola
4. Meen Koalmbu
5. Vanchiram Meen Varuval
6. Mutton Roast
7. Mutton Kola Kuzhambu
8. Brain Fry
9. Kozhi spl Kozhambu
10. Muttai Kari
11. Chicken Spl 65
12. Mutton Chops

My favourites were the mutton chukka and the Nandu Podimas - crab meat( it's just so comfortable that you don't have to break open the shell to eat it).The Fish Kolambu was so flavourful that I even took back some home for the next meal.Other specialties were the brain fry and the spl chicken 65 which had no added colour but looked and tasted brilliant.Each of the dishes were carefully balanced, cooked to perfection and tasted absolutely brilliant.It felt like we were part of the family and treated with so much love and affection.At the end of the meal, we were left so full that even water refused to get in.That was the one day of my life when I got to try so many varieties of only non vegetarian food and it is an experience to remember!

I'd say a big big thumbs up for the food and it is definitely a must try.If you haven't ordered from Namma Veettu Saapaadu yet, I think it's time you did.They're definitely here to stay.Aren't you drooling already??? :D :D

https://www.facebook.com/nammaveetusaapadu?fref=ts

- Sharanya

The Refreshing Launch - Gateway Hotels : IT Express Highway!!

When I say refreshing launch I literally mean it because that was the word for the day.The Gateway Hotels call themselves a refreshing change in the buzzing IT Express Highway.Situated right in the heart of Old Mahabalipuram Road surrounded by IT companies is this beautiful tall building with a tremendous structure.
Leading the hospitality sector in India, The TAJ group of hotels has proven its might and is taking it a step further with the Gateway chain of hotels.A bunch of bloggers were invited to this esteemed launch function which was well organized.

The first thing you notice about this place that strikes you is the beautiful interior and the narrow pathway that leads to the hall where the launch was set to take place. The pathway was wonderfully decorated and the swimming pool by the side is a sight you cannot forget.We finally get into the hall and settle down for the launch to begin.The launch began with a mind blowing classical performance which was a fusion dance and music programme centered around the concept of a honeycomb which is also the way the Gateway  Hotel is structured.VJ Paloma was the MC for the event and she did a great job of it.

                                          Picture Courtesy - Chinna's Clicks

                                           Picture Courtesy - Chinna's Clicks

                                           Picture Courtesy - Chinna's Clicks

We were introduced to the concept of gateway and why they think it'll refresh the hospitality scene in our city.We were given more insights about the various sections of the hotel and the cuisine that was aimed at.Considering we are all food bloggers, we paid more attention to this part where the chef mentioned that 'Tanjore Cuisine' was going to be the primarily aimed cuisine at the hotel.Chef also spoke about the importance of healthy food and how that was going to be a major part of the menu and they had some very very interesting choices.There was then a round of questions open to the audience where we got to know more about the range of rooms and how they plan on expanding in the coming years.

                                           Picture Courtesy - Chinna's Clicks

                                           Picture Courtesy - Chinna's Clicks

After the launch, we were guided around the property by one of the staff members.Beautiful hallways, spacious rooms, excellent facilities and courteous staff were highlights of the tour.The touch screen television with Google TV and Wi-Fi with one of the fastest speeds the city offers were add-ons.Every room is also given yoga mats and a TV channel that teaches yoga(aiming at fitness for the customers).The gym is open throughout the day and it is fully equipped.The swimming pool is neat and huge.The other part I loved about the property were the conference rooms.They have a wide range of conference rooms with different seating capability and facilities to suit the need of most IT groups.The rooms are available on rent on a daily basis or hourly basis.The bar also looked pretty well equipped and they plan on introducing a dance floor there soon too.

 Picture Courtesy - Chinna's Clicks

                                           Picture Courtesy - Chinna's Clicks

                                          Picture Courtesy - Chinna's Clicks

                                          Picture Courtesy - Chinna's Clicks

                                           Picture Courtesy - Chinna's Clicks

The last stop was the restaurants - Sian and Buzz. Sian serves Oriental cuisine and it is beautifully decorated.Buzz serves indian cuisine and is one of the best lit places I've ever been too.You'll have to go there so see how beautiful it is.We had the opportunity to dine at Buzz and the food was good.The buffet is reasonably priced and has a huge spread which is constantly re-filled.They also have some amazing things like flavoured water and the use of exotic fruits in juices and desserts.

On the whole, Chennai is lucky to have a new place to hangout and it is definitely worth the money spent.IT sector,look-out, you now have a new place for your counterparts from outside India to stay and appreciate.

It's that Feeling again!!!

It's funny how we always feel that we're missing out on something in life.During school days, all I wanted was a cell phone,during college, all I wanted was a car and when I started working, all I wanted was loads of money to travel the world.Somehow, in the midst of all of this need for one thing or another, I failed to notice what I had.Now, at this stage in life, all I want to do is move on and start a family of my own and setup my own house except at this juncture, the difference is that I've finally learned to stop and appreciate what I have.

Why did I suddenly think of this?? Well, this feeling is not just for material things but also relationships we share with different people. I've always been surrounded by friends and family and anybody who looks at me from an outsider's point of view would always think that I'm probably the most lucky and infact the happiest person around.Fact was that I never felt the same way because my definition of a friend is not a regular one.I grew up looking at my cousins and their friends and the unassuming relationship they shared and all I ever wanted was friends like that.I made friends and some really good ones but somehow today I feel that I didn't give them enough importance when I had them around.I was still expecting more.If a friend called me to congratulate me on something, I expected him to know about my excitement before I told him.What was wrong about this??? Nothing!! But what was right?? Nothing either. Expectations only bring disappointment and that's my biggest lesson in life.

Today, I finally stand tall and embrace everything I have. Everything little seems more important than ever. Afterall, life is short and what better thing to do than live it to the fullest.If you haven't realized this already, it's never too late!!

For all the things I've looked over or missed out on appreciating, I regret it today and I make a big promise to myself to never ever make that mistake again and to never ever feel that way again!!

- Sharanya

Music – The true essence of life!!!

Friedrich Nietzsche said "Without music, life would be a mistake." Who would disagree, knowing that music is an art form that uses sound as a medium to express a feeling that is an innocent display of your naked emotions?

In my life,music has such a pivotal importance that it cannot be explained within the boundary of words. Musical notes have the power to turn a disturbed mind into an exuberant and contained heart.

It is told that “If man is the first creation of God; then music is the best creation of man.” Music is in the air we breathe and the thoughts we think. Music is the voice we long for when we can't find the words to speak. Music is a link to our inner self.These are all the things I've heard , but for me, music is my cup of coffee to kick start my morning.It's my travel buddy that keeps me company through every journey.Music is the shoulder when I'm depressed and want to cry out loud.Music is my gin and tonic when I'm happy and excited.IF there's no music, I have nothing ..it'll be an empty room with no life in it.I cannot imagine a day without listening to my favourite band or one of those classics that remind me of my childhood days and the golden period in Indian cinema or a good classical number rendered beautifully to remind me of my lovely music classes.I shudder at the thought of life without music. 

Music is as important to me as food and air. It is my happiness, my comfort, and my inspiration. Music is the key that unlocks my soul. In this life full of work and anxiety, we all possess an intimate relationship with MUSIC which will lead us to the true meaning and essence of life itself.

-Sharanya

God's way of staying by your side always!!

Have you ever wondered why we pray to god so much? Have there been days when you've cursed god for giving you bad days and not being by your side? Well, I'm sure god has an answer to that and it's a very very convincing one.


Who is that one person in life
who wakes up before you do,
who cooks even before you feel hungry,
who calls you ten times in a day to check on you,
who has you constantly in their prayers,
who feeds you when you are in a hurry to rush out of home,
who is worried when you are home late,
who cries when there's a tear in your eye,
who strives to keep up with your life,
who is your first critic,
who is your biggest fan,
who is the biggest part of every bit of your happiness,
who loves you more than you anybody in this universe can.... none other than your mom.

And... that is god's answer to all your prayers.You have your mom with you.. what else do you need??? The almighty gave a little bit of his heart to every mother in this world and that is exactly how he keeps an eye on you all your life.So, if you haven't realized how important your mother is in your life, it's time you did!!!

Love you mom.You mean the world to me!!

-Sharanya

Road Trips - Journey of a lifetime!!!

Travelling has been one of those things I've always wanted to do.There's nothing I'm more jealous about than these TV show hosts who get to travel the world and taste world cuisine and all they have to do is to shoot a few episodes and talk about the food,culture and the place.(Hmmmpfff...I want their job!!).

Well, since I'm a software engineer and not a model, there is no way I was going to get a job with a TV channel and the least I can do is to make a few trips a year to explore the country for newer places and newer cuisines.With that in mind, I started travelling 4 years ago just after I'd finished college because that seemed like the perfect time and I had started earning so less burden for my parents to deal with.I made sure to make atleast 3 trips every year and I always made sure I never traveled to the same place twice.Somehow, this year, with all the weddings (yes, it is the biggest wedding year of all times.. everybody seems to be getting married) I haven't had a chance to travel much and that is exactly when Malayalam Cinema decides to come up with a movie that is only about travel(Sheesh!!!).

I'm talking about "Neelakasham Pachakadal Chuvanna Bhoomi" - Blue Skies, Green Sea and Red Earth.
The hero decides to go on a breezy, soul searching trip to the north east all the way from the south.En-route, he meets different people from different walks of life, faces challenges, learns the true meaning of friendship and realizes the value of love.The movie left me wondering if I'd ever be able to leave life behind and just pack up and leave to an unknown destination just to understand life, to love,to be loved and to know what life should be.

It left me craving for a road trip and I'm sure to make one very very soon!!!

-Sharanya

Gurus - Lessons Learnt from Life

I've had atleast a thousand Gurus in my journey of Life.If you're wondering if I've changed so many schools and colleges, you're wrong!! I've just met so many great people who've imparted knowledge in a variety of forms.

Teachers are not just the ones who've handled classes for you in school and college but people who've taught you something during every phase of life.. I've had some great teachers and I'll always be grateful to all the wonderful things they've taught me.

I've had really tiny teachers too - my little nieces and nephews who teach me how to love unconditionally.. :)

My friends who've taught me the importance of trust,encouragement and fun when needed.

My family who taught me how to be supportive,responsible,loving and selfless.

Some amazing people I've met in the recent past taught me inspiration by showing me that being differently abled is in no way a hindrance to the way we live life.

Some lovely cooks who've shown me that cooking is not an art restricted to full time cooks but something to enjoy and helped me realize the joy of cooking.

Some really talented people who've taught me that I can still do what I love and follow my passion.

My Gurus who introduced me to the world of music and have left me with something which won't leave me until I die!!

And Finally, my teachers from school who taught me discipline and all that I know today.

This is the day to say 'THANK YOU' for being who you are and making my life so much better!!!

Sharanya

Chao - Treated in Style!!!

CHAO - the word itself means different things in different languages and I think that is pretty much the essence of our dining experience here.It is up to you to decide which language you prefer. Chao is a fine dining restaurant situated in the ever busy T.Nagar and serves delicacies from the south-east part of the world which includes Thai, Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine.

Generally during showcases, restaurants display the new items on the menu and that makes us familiar with the variety and helps us in recommending the same dishes to another person.But dinner at CHAO was different.We were treated to the Chef's special and that was a surprise!!

We were escorted to a private dining room in the basement and the most striking thing about the place is the interior design.Beautiful decor with dim lighting and artistically amazing decorative.The place was quiet and we had a few smiling faces waiting for the chef's order to start serving the dishes.The Chef came in to give us a small introduction of the kind of dishes that were about to be served.

We started our evening with 'Sup Ayam' which was basically chicken soup and it was an indonesian recipe.Perfect blend of spices with lovely aroma.Our dining room was cold and warm soup was the perfect dish.Gulped it down in no time.

The first starter to arrive at our table was the 'Crispy Corn with Spinach'. I've never eaten spinach this crispy and flavourful. Just completely fell in love with it and it was my favourite dish of the evening.

Next at our table was the 'Namprik Gai' which is a Thai dish - it is stir fried chicken and this was good too.Slightly sweet but pretty delicious.

After wiping our plates clean, it was time for the next dish which was 'Drunken Noodles with Bang Bang Salad'. The name of the dish was so different and we had a round of laughter and making fun of the poor banged up salad and the drunk noodles..!! :) This was again a good dish and the salad was nice and the texture was pretty good.

Our next dish was 'Nasi Kuning' which was served with 'Sambal'. This is typically our coconut rice with a twist and the sambal was spicy and the perfect combo for Nasi Kuning.When asked, chef told us that Indian cuisine is pretty much close to Thai and malaysian cuisine and hence the similarity in dishes.

The best part of the evening was that we only had one vegetarian at the table but the non-vegetarians enjoyed the veg food just as much the vegetarian herself did.We had some great dishes like the 'Braised broccoli with Tofu' and 'Poached Pok Choy with Garlic'. The tofu dish was very nice and the broccoli was cooked to perfection but what stole the show was the pok choy because I never knew you could make such a wonderful creation out of it and there was such abundance of garlic in the dish visually but it wasn't overpowering the dish at all.

The last two dishes to arrive at our table was the 'T.Shanghai Chicken' and 'Choo Chee Goong'. Once again, these names were so interesting and everybody was so curious to know why the dishes were called that but the chef conveniently concluded that it was a secret!!Choo Chee Goong was a prawn dish which was once again great.I do not eat much prawn but I definitely liked this one.

It was finally time for dessert and the name suggested a really classy dish - 'Chocolate Mousse with orange Chantalay and strawberries in reduced red wine'. Although the red wine part excited a few friends, I was interested in knowing how the reduction process was done.Chef was kind enough to give us the recipe to this dish because he was pretty sure we wouldn't get our hands on the ingredients.. :). It was a delightful dessert with just enough dark chocolate topped with orange chantalay and the strawberry reduced in red wine was just yumm!!

As a special request, we also got to try the 'Pumpkin Custard' which is on their regular menu and it was just amazing.I couldn't even get a picture of it because the dish literally disappeared within seconds.

On the whole, if you want to be pampered with food from around the world and experience fine dining at it's best, this is the place to be.Kudos to the team at Chao.

CHAO

Address: N Boag Rd, Lakshimi Colony, Thiyagaraya Nagar, Chennai, TN 600017

Phone:044 6555 5553

Treated like Royals - A CFG Showcase at Moti Mahal Delux

The Palace of Pearls like the name rightly says is a beautifully decorated place that speaks volumes about the cuisine that is to be served at our table.Mughalai cuisine emerged in the Mughal empire and the first thing that strikes us about it is the beauty and richness of the food served.

A CFG showcase is always photography,laughter,fun,lots of talking and loads of eating.However, this time, it was more of respect for the food because we all felt like a bunch of royals sitting down for an elaborate meal brought to us by numerous palace servants ( More like the Aishwarya Rai serving Hrithik in Jodha Akbar Scene ;)).We were seated across a huge table with a big bowl of salad staring right at us and it remained there untouched till we finished our meal.

Starting with a not so traditional Ice tea, we had a whole range of starters coming in one after another.Each one wonderfully decorated and served in huge platters was a sight!!The succulent Paneer that melted in our mouths, the amazing Kebabs, the tandoori chicken and so so many more items on the menu and each one of it was worth waiting for.

After being stuffed with starters and a neat glass of Lassi, we had a round of different kinds of rotis and there were some interesting choices.One of them was the Chilly Paratha (not chilly parotta).This one was roti with chilli powder sprinkled over the top and it was simply Yumm!! The gravies were also amazing.. we had veg and non-veg and they were both equally good.

Then came the show stopper - The Biriyani. With tender meat and superbly spiced biriyani rice, it was heaven!! To end our meal, we had the awesome Paan ice cream and Kulfi and they were both delicious.It was the prefect ending to a Royal meal as I like to call it!!!

Moti Mahal stands tall with the tag "Authentic Dining Experience" and without a doubt, that's exactly what you'll feel after your meal here.