Geeta Chhabra's letter to her Readers
Mumbai
29th July 2026
My dear Readers,
I dream of a world which is conflict-free. Am I asking for too much? I dream of a world where there is interfaith harmony, and no one is confronting others with senseless violence. Am I asking for too much? I dream of good harvests of crops… from fertile, natural soil… not pumped with chemicals. Is that too much to ask?
I dream of our world led my wise leaders, devout to make the universe better for mankind’s welfare. Am I asking for too much?
I don’t know if my dreams will come true – but since I am a believer in miracles everything is possible. Yes!
In the section of Different Dialogues, I am covering Shri Maghanmal J. Pancholia’s Interview with Extended & Enlarged Version, including, a subsequent interview – which I was privileged to take about six months before his demise. For the link, kindly click on Different Dialogues.
In the Poetry Section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on Poetry Collection
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on Prose Collection
In the Music Section, we have the Ghazals of the iconic poet, Faiz Ahmed Faiz. Please click on Music Review
In the Book Review Section, we have: Train To Pakistan by Kushwant Singh. To check the review, please click on Book Review
In the Section of Photo-News, I share some photographs of reviewing and cherishing bonds along with family & friends whilst in Mumbai. To view the photographs, do click on Photo News
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on Viewers Comments
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
Dubai
29th June 2026
My dear Readers,
Let’s put our prayers and best wishes together for peace to prevail, universally. Of course, I will say this for UAE because I am a fervent lover of Dubai. I fell into this category, ever since Dubai became my second home.
UAE’s leadership is meticulous. Long live UAE.
In this month’s Issue, in the Section of Different Dialogues we have Dr. Janaki Rangarajan whose dazzling solo performance gained moral strength for Natyanjali’s fortune. The beautiful exponent was invited as the special guest to perform. Her movements adorned natural grace creating all the measures of the ancient traditions of this Indian classical dance form. Janaki’s presence as a performer seemed limitless. To know more about Dr. Janaki Rangarajan, kindly click on: http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Dr-Janaki-Rangarajan-april.php.
In the Poetry Section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Music Section, we have Pankaj Mullick. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/Pankaj-Mullick.php
In the Book Review Section, we have: Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell. To check the review, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Gone-with-the-Wind-by-Margaret-Mitchell.php
In the Section of Photo-News, I share some photographs of reviewing and cherishing bonds along with family & friends whilst in Mumbai. To view the photographs, do click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Reviving-Cherishing-Bonds.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
Mumbai
28th May 2026
My dear Readers,
Everyday of the week, I pray to God Almighty to bring total peace for UAE and the neighboring countries. May conflicts come to an end. May peace prevail upon the entire Universe. Amen. Amen. Amen.
In the section of Different Dialogues, we have the interview with extended and enlarged version of Dr. Mithu Alur - Founder Chairperson, ADAPT (formerly The Spastics Society of India). To view the interview kindly click on: http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Mithu-Alur-sep24.php
In the Poetry Section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Music Section, Qawwali is featured. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/Qawwali.php
In the Book-Review Section, we have: The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni. To check the review, please click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/The-Palace-of-Illusions.php
In the Section of Photo-News, I share some photographs of Mother’s Day celebrations. To view the photographs, do click on
http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Mothers-Day-Celebration.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
Mumbai
28th April 2026
My dear Readers,
I remember well, that, when the conflict in Syria began around 2011, I got very disturbed. It was unbearable to see in the news how the people of Syria were suffering and dying, and Syria literally burning.
I share a poem I wrote on Syria in the year 2015. The caption of the poem is: Lines on Syria. At that time, I had no idea, that, in the coming years, my beloved second home – the most peaceful and peace-loving Dubai (UAE) would get hit and affected by war for no fault!
I want to restate that UAE’s leadership is superb. The leaders are loved by all the people (no matter to which country or creed or religion they belong to) who are residing in UAE.
I pray, day and night for UAE.
I pray, day and night for universal harmony.
In the section of Different Dialogues, we have the Interview with Extended & Enlarged Version of Mr. Narain R. Sawlani who has a treasure trove of memories, connected with Dubai in its late 1950s and onwards. Kindly click on: http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Narain-R-Sawlani-2023.php.
I am sharing some poems from my book: Smash My Glass published in 2016 by CYBER WIT NET. http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Music Section, I present The Sound of Om / Aum. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/The-Sound-of-Om-Aum.php
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In Book Review, we have My Mother Did Not Go Bald by Nazeem Beegum. It is a very slim book, a unique memoir written by a daughter who had to witness her mother’s death after discovering that the lady was suffering from an advanced stage of cancer. To check the review, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/A-Pathography.php
Photo-News Section covers photographs of our family visit to the Jio World Centre in Mumbai, India. To view the photographs, kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Family-reunion-at-Jio.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog and Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php
Let’s pray for universal harmony.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I am sharing some poems from my book: Smash My Glass published in 2016 by CYBER WIT NET.
What I wrote THEN in my book, is happening NOW with the ongoing direct conflict between the United States and Israel against Iran which began on February 28th 2026
Most tragically, my adopted homeland of Dubai (UAE) is caught in the massive fiery crossfires of a full-blown war. Not fair! Not fair!
Much of what follows with the complexities of circumstances, I plead to God Almighty to restore peace… peace in UAE… peace in every part of our universe.
My motherland India and my adopted homeland Dubai are my lifeblood… my heart, my pulse, my soul. I will always cherish and celebrate their glory and strong friendship-bond that they have for each other. Yes, hope emerges from my heart, that, soon war will end and normalcy return.
Long Live India.
Long Live UAE.
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are from my book: Smash My Glass. To view them kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, we have the Interview (with Extended & Enlarged Version) of H.E. Mirza Al Sayegh – Ex Director of the office of (Late) H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Sheikh_Hamdan_2022.php.
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
The Music Section has the melodious Bengali singer – Geeta Dutt, whose voice will live on amongst our fond memories. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/Geeta-Dutt.php
In the Section of Book Review, we have From Left To Right by Dr. Qais Ghanem. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Dr-Qais-Ghanem.php
Photo-News Section covers photographs of our revisit to our motherland, India. My spouse is coming back home to Mumbai after eight years! To view the photographs, kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Re-visiting-our-motherland-India.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog and Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
The new year of 2026 has begun with a bang! There were pits and peaks, God Almighty’s grace prevailed, and, all is on a smooth track now. There were medical procedures… which are out of the way for the family. A word of wisdom is that health care should be number one priority for all. Delays should be avoided at all costs.
There is more to share! On 31st December 2025, my spouse, Dr Ved Chhabra and I ranked amongst the 50 Legends of Top Business Leaders & Professionals from India in the Middle East & Africa with a Special Focus on UAE – featured by GRAY MATTER in association with GULF NEWS.
There is more to follow. On 5th & 6th February 2026, I attended and participated in the two-day event in Dubai of the Poetic Heart Connecting Humanity in their fifteenth Edition 2026 at Emirates Institute of Finance Auditorium and Zabeel Ladies Club, respectively. There was poetry by multi-national school children, poetry by senior poets from multi-nations, music, book-launch and more! Kudos to the management team of Poetic Heart – Mr. Suresh Premkumar, Mr. Gaurav Shinghal, Mr. Amit Shivani. Kudos to the volunteers who worked for months… behind the scenes. Importantly, special thanks to Dr Akash Ouchi and Dr Shihab Ghanem for their continuous guidance and dedication. Huge thanks to the soulful poets.
In this Issue, I present along with my poems the published prose pieces matching the poems. The poems recited at the Poetic Heart event belong to my three books: An Indian Ode To The Emirates, No Journey Ends, Smash My Glass. To view my poems, kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
For my prose pieces kindly click on n http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Section of Different Dialogues we have the Interview with Extended & Enlarged Version of Dr. Shihab Ghanem’s interview, Emirati Poet and Poetry Translator. To view his interview, please click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Dr-Shihab-Ghanem.php.
Music Section covers the late legendary singer – Lata Mangeshkar. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/Lata-Mangeshkar.php
In Book Review, we have: In The Sanctuary of The Soul by Sri Sri Paramhansa Yogananda. To check the review, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Sri-Sri-Paramhansa-Yogananda.php
Photo-News Sections covers our photographs from the 50 Legends, and the Poetic Heart Event. To view the photographs, kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/50-Legends-of-Top-Business.php and http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/The-Poetic-Heart-2026.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook and Instagram. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I remember well, that, when the conflict in Syria began around 2011, I got very disturbed. It was unbearable to see in the news how the people of Syria were suffering and dying, and Syria literally burning.
I share a poem I wrote on Syria in the year 2015. The caption of the poem is: Lines on Syria. At that time, I had no idea, that, in the coming years, my beloved second home – the most peaceful and peace-loving Dubai (UAE) would get hit and affected by war for no fault!
I want to restate that UAE’s leadership is superb. The leaders are loved by all the people (no matter to which country or creed or religion they belong to) who are residing in UAE.
I pray, day and night for UAE.
I pray, day and night for universal harmony.
In the section of Different Dialogues, we have the Interview with Extended & Enlarged Version of Mr. Narain R. Sawlani who has a treasure trove of memories, connected with Dubai in its late 1950s and onwards. Kindly click on: http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Narain-R-Sawlani-2023.php.
I am sharing some poems from my book: Smash My Glass published in 2016 by CYBER WIT NET. http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Music Section, I present The Sound of Om / Aum. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/The-Sound-of-Om-Aum.php
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In Book Review, we have My Mother Did Not Go Bald by Nazeem Beegum. It is a very slim book, a unique memoir written by a daughter who had to witness her mother’s death after discovering that the lady was suffering from an advanced stage of cancer. To check the review, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/A-Pathography.php
Photo-News Section covers photographs of our family visit to the Jio World Centre in Mumbai, India. To view the photographs, kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Family-reunion-at-Jio.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog and Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php
Let’s pray for universal harmony.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
As 2025 departs, I return to the silent hill… my silent hill. The hill’s silence is loaded with questions… the same ones:
When will the world see peace and inter faith harmony?
When will mankind start to feel something new… by sharing the same feeling of compassion, unselfish love to understand each other?
How will the scars inflicted upon Mother Nature get healed? How will air, water, earth get restored to health?
For the hundredth time, I reflect on the ongoing dilemma, but no answers come.
For this month’s Issue, in the section of Different Dialogues we have the Interview with extended & enlarged version of – Ms. Patricia Al Fakhri – veteran water colourist based in Dubai and UK. To view it, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Patricia-Al-Fakhri-june.php.
In the Poetry Section, my poems are from my second book: No Journey Ends. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Music Section, we have Bhajan – II (A Devotional Song). To view the same kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/Bhajan-II-A-Devotional-Song.php
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Book Review Section, we have Nissim Ezekiel’s Collected Poems (1952-1988). To see the review, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Collected-Poems-of-Nissim-Ezekiel.php
In the Section of Photo-News, I share some super precious photographs from my memory lane during a special evening event at Zabeel Palace! Kindly click on: http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/celebrating-the-everlasting-ties-between-india-and-uae.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
UAE is offering the best of weather. The breeze is balmy, and the sun is friendly. Super setting for outdoor activities. A perfect setting is readying my mind to sit in solitude in a park and feast upon the greenery while I compose verse in praise of God Almighty. After all, there is so much to be grateful for in life! This realization, by itself, is His grace sent to me.
In the Section of Different Dialogues, we have the extended & enlarged Interview of Ms. Shelly Young – an Art Historian in Dubai-UAE. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Shelly_Young_aug.php.
In the Section of Photo-News, I share some photographs of our visit to the Global Village this year. To view the photographs, do click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Our-Visit-to-the-Global-Village-in-2025.php
In the Poetry Section, my poems are from my second book: No Journey Ends and from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Book Review Section, we have Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte. Please click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Wuthering-Heights-by-Emily-Bronte.php
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
The Music Section has a devotional song. To view the song written by me, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/Devotional-Song.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I’ve had this habit, (probably picked up from my dearest mother) and the habit is to hold quiet dialogues with myself. When I delved deeper to get knowledge on this subject of speaking to oneself – I learnt that the technical term is known as: auto-suggestion. I was happily surprised to learn that auto-suggestion is one of the oldest form of inner learning known to spiritual psychology.
Through my personal experiences, I can say with confidence that every self-conversation has yielded me favourable outcomes. I can say for myself that this practice has proven to be the subtle guide, replacing confusion with clarity, fear with calmness, and doubt with faith.
In a nutshell: What have I learned from auto-suggestion are the following:
Never give up on myself – no matter how high the velocity of storms is battering me.
What vibes or emotions I send out to others, (and these definitely include my direct-indirect actions) they are my future in disguise.
Every act of mine can be converted by me into an act of prayer, if I put my heart everywhere in everything by realizing that I must do things without bringing my ego’s weight upon me.
It is my karmas – I’ve got to watch… moment to moment. God Almighty is always merciful on all accounts, but the karmic law will go totally on my karma-scores. In this department – no one is spared!
This month, in the Section of Different Dialogues, we have Bubbles Kandhari – vice chairperson of the Guru Nanak Darbar in Dubai. She is a dynamic lady so blessed to do what she is doing. Kindly connect with the link http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Interview-of-Bubbles-Kandhari-2020.php.
In the Section of Photo-News, I share some photographs of Diwali Pooja held in our office. To view the photographs, do click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Diwali-Celebrations-at-2025.php
In the Poetry Section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Book Review Section, we have: War Horse by Michael Morpurgo. To view the same kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/War-Horse-by-Michael-Morpurgo.php
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Music Section, we present Mirabai – the ancient Indian poetess who was devoted to Lord Krishn. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/Mirabai.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
In light and love.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Over time, I have realized, that, there is no “perfect” moment of “perfect” peace.
Speaking from my personal experiences, when and if – peace came, it came not because life offered me perfection; peace became my companion whenever I chose to “turn inward.”
Calmness revealed itself through the quiet and steady practice of constant chanting and looking “within me” through meditation. This process has transformed into a daily habit for me. It softens my days when I care for others, allowing light, love, resilience flow into my blood stream. I try to trim the hooded scepters of my ego… that is important.
All days are not great – some are better some are worse. Believe my word, I have known what it is to see betrayal, and how it is to feel the hurt, and what it means to suffer from the resentment of others. It is usually from the closest quarters!
I stumble, fall, get up to restart, one more time an “inward dialogue”, questioning myself and my Maker, “Why me, again my Lord? Why me?”
The key word is not to lose heart.
The key word is not to lose faith and keep going.
The key word is to put a smile on someone who is sad and needs help.
The key word is to remain thankful to one and all who guide me, teach me, and who are frank to correct me when I am wrong….
For this month, in the section of Different Dialogues, we present the Interview with Extended & Enlarged Interview of Ibrahim Al Tatoor who is working for the protection of Children’s Rights at Sharjah Social Services Department in UAE. To view the interview kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Ahmed-Ibrahim-Al-Tartoor-2023.php.
In the Poetry Section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Music Section, we have Bulleh Shah. To know about the Sufi poet, do click on the link below http://geetachhabra.com/music/On_Bulleh_Shah_feb14.php
In Book Review, we have The Secret of God’s Son by Usha Narayanan. To check the review, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/The-Secret-of-Gods-Son-by-Usha-Narayanan.php
In the Section of Photo-News, I share some photographs of Family Moments. To view the photographs, do click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/family-moments-2025.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
In light and love.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Many schools of thought share the idea that we are in an age of decline where human virtues weaken while vices are growing stronger.
Signs include moral decay, wars, conflicts in families and natural disasters.
As a kid, I would hear my Mother saying, that, Kalyug is upon the world and good things will erode by and by. She would tell me, that, for those who remain close to truth and integrity – for them, God Almighty’s protection will always be there.
In my personal trials and turbulences, my Mother’s words have steered me well, indeed. Challenging times have taught me precious lessons. Yes, yes, light has not forsaken me but shown me new dawns when I have been engulfed by darkness.
In the Poetry Section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, we have the interview covering the extended & enlarged version of the conversations, I have had with Dr. Sheilu Srinivasan – Founder of Dignity Foundation (India). To view the same, please click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Dr-Sheilu-Srinivasan-feb19.php.
In the Book Review Section, we have Vintage Maugham – Collected Short Stories by Somerset Maugham. Please click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Vintage-Maugham.php
In the Music Section, we have Hymns of Guru Nanak Dev ji. Please click on
http://geetachhabra.com/music/Hymns-of-Guru-Nanak.php
In the Section of Photo-News, I share some nostalgic photographs of EKAL Event celebrating 25 years of EKAL in UAE. To view the photographs, do click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/EKAL_Silver_Jubilee_Event_held_a_Indian_High_School.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
In light and love.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
For each of us, life shows its own paths and colors. Often, our challenges are so sharp, so deep, they leave us gasping!
I say this, and so will you, that, the betrayals, the moments of big disappointments can test our spirit, shake our confidence, and even bring us to our knees.
I express this not from a place of distant reflection, but from within the process itself. I am actually walking through formidable challenges… which have brought me face to face with pain, and even despair.
Yet! I can see a small streak of light in the gloom engulfing me!
Amid the thick, clotted darkness, I see the beginnings of a new dawn. I see myself becoming not bitter, not broken, but clearer, wiser, tougher in ways I hadn’t known were possible.
If there is a message I want to share, is this: Our most painful moments are not the end of us. They may, in fact, be the making of us as, warriors!
Remember, the fire doesn’t just burn, it forges, too. And in that forging, we don’t just survive, we evolve.
In the Photo News Section I share some photographs of Global Maritime Summit 2025 held on 12th June 2025 at Jumeirah Ballroom 3, Dubai, where I was invited as a Special Guest & Panel Speaker on the topic of Gender Diversity and Workforce Inclusion in the Maritime Industry. To view the photographs, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Global-Maritime-Summit-2025.php
In the Poetry Section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Music Section, I present a piece, captioned: A Hymn… banat, banat, ban jai which I composed after reading about the great Indian Saint Sri Sri Lahiri Mahasaya. Kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/music/A_Hymn.php
In the Book Review Section, we have Messages From The Masters by Brian Weiss M.D. To view the same kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Messages-From-The-Masters.php
In our Issue, in the section of Different Dialogues we present the inspiring interview of Dr. R.K. Kapoor – Ophthalmologist. To view his interview, Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/R-K-Kapoor.php.
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
In light and love.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Alike millions, I am distressed beyond words by the ground reality, that, in this age of extraordinary advancement, we still haven’t found the wisdom, the compassion, the courage to coexist in peace.
I am thinking. We’ve mapped the human genome, we’ve built machines that can learn, we’ve touched the surface of the moon. But. Look at the prevailing scenario with the ongoing conflicts in many parts of the world. Innocent people are dying, starving! And much more!
I feel. The greatest measure of our progress will be when nations unite to make sure interfaith relationships are built on the base empathy and understanding.
Sharing some more thoughts with you. Is karma real? Do our souls continue? Will we meet our dear ones after death? This month, these questions have been churning all the time after my family lost a loved one… Kamal Nain Bakshi. And I am left sitting with this ache, yearning for answers… and no answers come.
For this month’s Issue, in Different Dialogues, we have in fond remembrance, Kamal Nain Bakshi… he was a veteran diplomat who represented India in different parts of the world. To view the interview, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Kamal-Nain-Bakshi-june2025.php.
In the Photo News Section I share some photos of Kamal Nain Bakshi with the family. To view the photographs, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Kamal-Nain-Bakshi.php
In the Poetry Section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Section of Music, the meaning of Gayatri Mantra is shared. Kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/music/On-Gayatri-Mantra.php
In the Section of Book Review we have the book The Mill on the Floss by Mary Anne Evans (George Eliot) a semi-autobiographical novel. Please click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/The-Mill-on-the.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
In light and love.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
My own experiences have taught me that, no matter how much you do for your body and mind, the demands from them keep increasing. In this process, I’ve recognized that the more I learn, the less I know! Besides, I have also observed that life is not so simple… not at all!
The reality is…
If life provides mirth and song for me, it will also bring drama which can break my spirit and crush my courage.
Over the years, what my reasoning concludes is that God Almighty wants to see in me, not just improvement but a transformation.
This month, in the Poetry Section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
The Music Section has a devotional song. To view the song, kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/music/Devotional-Song-5-2017.php
In the Prose section, my prose pieces are of mixed origin. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, this month we have for my blog, the Interview (with Extended & Enlarged Version) of Jyoti Uplenchwar – Vice Chairperson of Snehi – a Delhi-based non-profit registered organization. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Jyoti-Uplenchwar-oct2022.php.
In the Book Review Section, we have Sonnets of Ghalib by Dr. Sarfaraz K. Niazi. To view the same kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Love-Sonnets-of-Ghalib.php
In the Photo News Section, I share photographs from my memory lane. To view the photographs, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/walking_down_memory.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
The holy month of Ramadan carries millions of blessings for us! May peace and prosperity prevail in every home of our Universe.
Past few weeks have been hectic, exciting – a lot remains to be completed to achieve!
Two recognitions came our way – my spouse received the Indywood Business Excellence Award 2025 on 18th February 2025 and I had the privilege to address the audience at the holy Guru Nanak Darbar, Dubai on the occasion of Sikh & International Women’s Day on 10th March 2025. How fortunate I am!
I’m working on my book, and it’s not an easy task – it is like weaving threads to make a canvas and filling colours in it with a brush… and the more colours you add – the less they are!
For this month’s Issue, in the Photo-News Section, I share photographs of the Indywood Business Award and that of Sikh & International Women’s Day. To view the photographs kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Indywood-Business-Excellence.php and http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Celebrating-Sikh-International-Women.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, we have the Interview with Extended & Enlarged Version of Mr. Narain R. Sawlani who has a treasure trove of memories, connected with Dubai in its late 1950s and onwards. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Narain-R-Sawlani-2023.php.
In the Poetry Section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Music Section, I present The Sound of Om / Aum. Kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/music/The-Sound-of-Om-Aum.php
For the Book Review Section, we have Mirza Ghalib: A Biographical Scenario by Gulzar. To view the same, please click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Mirza-Ghalib-A-Biographical-Scenario-by-Gulzar.php
In the Prose section, my prose pieces are of mixed origin. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
There are many thoughts coming and going in my mind: like, is there such a thing as fate? Is there reincarnation? Can I change things for myself, and around me – if my life is already determined by my past karmas?
Whichever questions keep popping up… I realize one thing for sure – which is, that, my actions must be based on integrity – which helps me in multitude ways to evolve.
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry Section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
This month, in the Section of Different Dialogues, we have Bubbles Kandhari – vice chairperson of the Guru Nanak Darbar in Dubai. She is a dynamic lady so blessed to do what she is doing. Kindly connect with the link http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Interview-of-Bubbles-Kandhari-2020.php.
In the Photo News Section are some photos – at a get-to-gather hosted at her residence by Bubbles Kandhari celebrating her being the recipient of the Emirates Women Award 2024. To view the photographs, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Bubbles-Kandharis-achievement.php
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Music Section, Kanan Devi is featured. To know about the melodious Bengali singer cum actress, kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/music/kanan-devi-may.php
In the Section of Book Review, we have the book: Blasphemy by Tehmina Durrani. Please click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Blasphemy-by-Tehmina-Durrani.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I read somewhere that a city, a town is successful not when it is rich but when its people are happy.
And when are people happy?
Well, people are happy when they have freedom and security to enhance their day-to-day life.
They are happy when the governance of the land is clearly firm in laws and reasonable in implementation of basic principles.
Dubai – my second home has all the above and more!
I love UAE.
I love my motherland, India.
May the friendship of the two nations grow stronger and stronger!
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry Section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Section of Different Dialogues, we pay a special tribute to the memories of Mr. and Mrs. K. Kumar who left for their heavenly abodes recently. Our prayers for their Souls. In March 2011, I was invited to their residence where we had different dialogues – it is my privilege to share the interview of Mr. K. Kumar – he was at that time the Convener of Indian Community Welfare Committee in Dubai. To view the interview, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Mr-K-Kumar-Convener-aug2024.php.
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Music Section, Suraiya – the Indian playback singer and actress in Bollywood in the 1940s and 1950s is covered. Kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/music/Suraiya.php
In Book Review section, we have the book: Don't They Know It's Friday? By Jeremy Williams. To view the same, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/dont_they_know_its_friday_by_jeremy_williams.php
In the Photo News Section, I share photographs of Ved’s 90th birthday family reunion at Princess Tower. To view the photographs, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Shangri-La-Hotel-Dubai-UAE.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I read somewhere that a city, a town is successful not when it is rich but when its people are happy.
And when are people happy?
Well, people are happy when they have freedom and security to enhance their day-to-day life.
They are happy when the governance of the land is clearly firm in laws and reasonable in implementation of basic principles.
Dubai – my second home has all the above and more!
I love UAE.
I love my motherland, India.
May the friendship of the two nations grow stronger and stronger!
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry Section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Section of Different Dialogues, we pay a special tribute to the memories of Mr. and Mrs. K. Kumar who left for their heavenly abodes recently. Our prayers for their Souls. In March 2011, I was invited to their residence where we had different dialogues – it is my privilege to share the interview of Mr. K. Kumar – he was at that time the Convener of Indian Community Welfare Committee in Dubai. To view the interview, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Mr-K-Kumar-Convener-aug2024.php.
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Music Section, Suraiya – the Indian playback singer and actress in Bollywood in the 1940s and 1950s is covered. Kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/music/Suraiya.php
In Book Review section, we have the book: Don't They Know It's Friday? By Jeremy Williams. To view the same, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/dont_they_know_its_friday_by_jeremy_williams.php
In the Photo News Section, I share photographs of Ved’s 90th birthday family reunion at Princess Tower. To view the photographs, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Shangri-La-Hotel-Dubai-UAE.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Very often, I take myself aside and deliberate what is best and most necessary for mankind. Several answers emerge. The answers are always unchanged.
Suppose for the moment there were no wars, no conflicts in the world.
Suppose for the moment we get around to establishing peace and interfaith harmony.
Suppose for the moment that our focus begins to build, rather than destroy!
Wouldn’t the world be a beautiful world! Wouldn’t there be enough schools, shelters and hospitals to provide adequate care and multiple advantages to the young and the old!
With the new year of 2025 arriving, let us pray that peace prevails, universally. I believe, when voices combine in multitudes to pray, nothing will distract miracles to happen… and surely, surely, surely: miracles will take place to unite the world as one big family.
Amen. Om Shanti.
With this note of optimism. I wish my readers – a very happy and prosperous 2025.
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry Section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections and from my first book: An Indian Ode To The Emirates. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, we have the Interview (with Extended & Enlarged Version) of Jogiraj Sikidar – Founder-Director of Malhaar. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/mr-jogiraj_sikidar_sep2022.php.
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Book Review Section, we have: The Diary OF A Young Girl Anne Frank edited by Otto H. Frank and Mirjam Pressier. To view the same kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/The-Diary-Of-A-Young-Girl.php
In the Music Section: The Song - Karman Ki Gatti Nyari Udho is thought provoking. Kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/music/The_Song_Karman_Ki_Gatti_Nyari_Udho.php
In the Photo News Section, I share photographs of Ved’s 90th birthday family reunion at Princess Tower. To view the photographs, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Only-Royal-Mirage.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Facts communicated in my letter to you in the October month Issue haven’t left my mind. I am sure you feel the way I do.
I am repeating an extract from my October letter here, which is as follows:
It is all tragedy and wonder how we have mismanaged our world’s resources. I think of our children’s and grandchildren’s future. Forests are shrinking. Water tables are drying up. Soil is depleted. Air is polluted. Species on land and in oceans are disappearing. Refugee crisis is here to stay. Where is the peace? Conflict grows and grows. As I reflect – the pain – it never goes. The scars remain fresh.
In this November Issue, in the section of Different Dialogues, we have for my blog, the Interview (with Extended & Enlarged Version) of Isobel Abulhoul – Founder-Director of the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature, Dubai, UAE. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Isobel-Abulhoul-2022.php.
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry Section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections and from my first book: An Indian Ode To The Emirates. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Section of Book Review, we have Breathless in Bombay by Murzban. F. Shroff. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Murzban-F-Shroff.php
In the Music Section, we have Bhajan – II (A Devotional Song). To view the same kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/music/Bhajan-II-A-Devotional-Song.php
In the Photo News Section, I share photographs of Ved’s 90th birthday family reunion at Princess Tower. To view the photographs, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Family-Re-Union-nov.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
It is all tragedy and wonder how we have mismanaged our world’s resources. I think of our children’s and grandchildren’s future. Forests are shrinking. Water tables are drying up. Soil is depleted. Air is polluted. Species on land and in oceans are disappearing. Refugee crisis is here to stay. Where is the peace? Conflict grows and grows. As I reflect – the pain – it never goes. The scars remain fresh.
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry Section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, this month we have for my blog, the Interview (with Extended & Enlarged Version) of Jyoti Uplenchwar – Vice Chairperson of Snehi – a Delhi-based non-profit registered organization. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Jyoti-Uplenchwar-oct2022.php.
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Music Section we have the philosopher / saint / poet – Kabir. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/A-Concert-with-Kabir.php
The Book Review Section covers Saikat Majumdar’s novel, The Firebird. To view the most recent work of the author, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/The-Firebird-by-Saikat-Majumdar.php
In the Photo News Section, I share photographs of Ved’s 90th birthday family reunion at Princess Tower. To view the photographs, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Family-Re-Union-oct.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Personally, one of the things that most calls my attention is my ability to make use of my: TODAY.
I realize more and better that my present moments are capable of becoming joyful waterfalls – aiding in quenching my parched soul.
And my parched soul yearns for what? It yearns for spiritual drunkenness that invariably comes when one is free from fears of any kind.
Today I am immersed in bhajans (devotional songs) of Krishna Das.
I subscribed to @KrishnaDasMusic
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry Section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Music Section, Suraiya – the Indian playback singer and actress in Bollywood in the 1940s and 1950s is covered. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/Suraiya.php
In the Book Review Section, we have His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s book: Flashes of Thoughts. It is an inspiring piece of work. To view the same, please click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Flashes-of-Thought.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, we have the interview with extended and enlarged version of Dr. Mithu Alur - Founder Chairperson, ADAPT (formerly The Spastics Society of India). To view the interview kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Mithu-Alur-sep24.php.
In the Photo News Section, I share photographs of Ved’s 90th birthday family reunion at Princess Tower. To view the photographs, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Family-Re-Union-sep.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Some current thoughts that don’t want to leave me:
Number 1. Looking at the ongoing armed conflicts, my concerns rise by the day – and how I wish and wish and wish for an idyllic existence for our world! But if wishes were horses, beggars would ride – it is said. Right?
Number 2. I find myself spinning around-around in the middle of sadness, disappointment, disbelief when I’m watching / reading world news. I try to make sense of it all but never can.
Number 3. I try to scoop up some sagely wisdom on karma and dharma. I dip my conscience in their theories. The more I learn, the less I know!
Number 4. Inspite of the experience of being able to get three books published, writing a book is never a child’s play. I realize this as I am trying to complete my fourth one….
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry Section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Music Section we have In the Music Section, we have Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. Kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/music/Ustad-Nusrat-Fateh-Ali-Khan.php
In the Book Review Section we have the book: They May Catch You by Vinita Chopra. To view the review please click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/They-May-Catch-You.php
In the Section of Different Dialogues, we present the interview of Mr. K. Kumar, Convener of Indian Community Welfare Committee – Dubai, UAE. To view the interview, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Mr-K-Kumar-Convener-aug2024.php.
In the Photo News Section, I share photographs of Ved’s 90th birthday family reunion at Princess Tower. To view the photographs, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Family-Re-union-at-Ved.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Ah! The month of June is etched in my heart for all times!
My bucket list wanted a family reunion, and I am certain that divine forces worked their way to make my spouse, Ved’s 90th birthday a special reason to fulfill my wish.
Ved enjoying every moment of the three days of festivities went online to express his thoughts to the beautiful people who travelled all the way to Dubai from Canada, Australia and various parts of India. His sentiments ran thus:
“This was not only my 90th birthday celebration, but more than that! It was a celebration of my family, our families and everybody who participated by getting together in Dubai. What an event and what a joy for each one of us to meet after so many months, and so many years, which will be remembered forever.”
Amidst the deep affection, another very special gift for Ved’s 90th birthday – is a poem written for Ved by the versatile poet, musician, Azad Iqbal from Pakistan.
For some who may not be aware, Dawn the prominent Pakistan paper says Azad Iqbal is his grandfather’s true heir to the poetic legacy, referring to none other than Allama Muhammad Iqbal who composed the legendary song, “Sarre Jahan Say Achhaa, Hindustan Hamara.”
Azad ji thank you. Dil say dua aap ko, aur bahut shukriya, meherbani from ALL of US.
The Multan mitti and placing of the flowering plant in the pot was a poignant affair making the birthday boy nostalgic, and also revitalized similar sentiments of the audience at the dinner at Atlantis.
The whole concept of Multan mitti and of importing poetry – was organized by our… one and only Geeta Gopal... my Twin Soul. Kudos Geeta, you brought the true spirit of Universal Interfaith Harmony on Ved’s 90th birthday.
Last but not the least, some family members very much wanted to be here, but could not be with us, they were present in spirit, and we send them love from the bottom of our hearts.
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In this Issue, in the Section of Different Dialogues, we have Surender Kandhari – Founder & Chairman of Al Dobowi Group, Dubai (UAE). His interview also follows the storyline of his visit with his spouse, Bubbles Kandhari, to Darbar Sahib Gurudwara in Kartarpur-Pakistan for celebrating the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji in 2019. He and Bubbles Kandhari have played a very vital role in the construction of Guru Nanak Durbar-Dubai, which is an iconic monument of Dubai! To view the interview kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Surender-Singh-Kandhari-2019.php.
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Book Review Section we have Business Maharajas by Gita Piramal. To view the same kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Business-Maharajas.php
In the Music Section, we have Shamshad Begum. Please click on
http://geetachhabra.com/music/On-Shamshad-Begum-april.php
Photo-News Section contains some of the photographs of Ved Chhabra’s 90th birthday reunion. To view the photographs, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Ved-Chhabra-90-Birthday..php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Ah! The month of June is etched in my heart for all times!
My bucket list wanted a family reunion, and I am certain that divine forces worked their way to make my spouse, Ved’s 90th birthday a special reason to fulfill my wish.
Ved enjoying every moment of the three days of festivities went online to express his thoughts to the beautiful people who travelled all the way to Dubai from Canada, Australia and various parts of India. His sentiments ran thus:
“This was not only my 90th birthday celebration, but more than that! It was a celebration of my family, our families and everybody who participated by getting together in Dubai. What an event and what a joy for each one of us to meet after so many months, and so many years, which will be remembered forever.”
Amidst the deep affection, another very special gift for Ved’s 90th birthday – is a poem written for Ved by the versatile poet, musician, Azad Iqbal from Pakistan.
For some who may not be aware, Dawn the prominent Pakistan paper says Azad Iqbal is his grandfather’s true heir to the poetic legacy, referring to none other than Allama Muhammad Iqbal who composed the legendary song, “Sarre Jahan Say Achhaa, Hindustan Hamara.”
Azad ji thank you. Dil say dua aap ko, aur bahut shukriya, meherbani from ALL of US.
The Multan mitti and placing of the flowering plant in the pot was a poignant affair making the birthday boy nostalgic, and also revitalized similar sentiments of the audience at the dinner at Atlantis.
The whole concept of Multan mitti and of importing poetry – was organized by our… one and only Geeta Gopal... my Twin Soul. Kudos Geeta, you brought the true spirit of Universal Interfaith Harmony on Ved’s 90th birthday.
Last but not the least, some family members very much wanted to be here, but could not be with us, they were present in spirit, and we send them love from the bottom of our hearts.
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In this Issue, in the Section of Different Dialogues, we have Surender Kandhari – Founder & Chairman of Al Dobowi Group, Dubai (UAE). His interview also follows the storyline of his visit with his spouse, Bubbles Kandhari, to Darbar Sahib Gurudwara in Kartarpur-Pakistan for celebrating the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji in 2019. He and Bubbles Kandhari have played a very vital role in the construction of Guru Nanak Durbar-Dubai, which is an iconic monument of Dubai! To view the interview kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Surender-Singh-Kandhari-2019.php.
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Book Review Section we have Business Maharajas by Gita Piramal. To view the same kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Business-Maharajas.php
In the Music Section, we have Shamshad Begum. Please click on
http://geetachhabra.com/music/On-Shamshad-Begum-april.php
Photo-News Section contains some of the photographs of Ved Chhabra’s 90th birthday reunion. To view the photographs, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Ved-Chhabra-90-Birthday..php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
He is who has influenced me. He is who has been influenced by me. We skipped through green pastures and trekked through rocky terrain. In togetherness, we have seen and found and learnt so much about life. On his 90th birthday, I wish my dearest spouse, Ved, good fortune in every aspect. May his phenomenal energy continue to thrive! I love him and wish him good health, contentment, and happiness, always.
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Prose section, my prose pieces are of mixed origin. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, we have the interview covering the extended & enlarged version of the conversations, I have had with Dr. Sheilu Srinivasan – Founder of Dignity Foundation (India). To view the same, please click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Dr-Sheilu-Srinivasan-may.php.
The Book Review Section contains Dr. Daisaku Ikeda’s book: Journey of Life. It is a volume of his poems. To view the review kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Daisaku-Ikeda.php
The Music Section has a devotional song. To view the song written by me, kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/music/Devotional-Song.php
The Photo-News section contains photographs of some of the awards & recognitions received by my spouse, Ved Chhabra, covering his incredible lifetime journey. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Ved-Chhabra-Awards.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog and Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I came across these gorgeous lines:
“Just as devotees wish to glorify God in every aspect of their lives, God’s nature is to glorify His devotees.”
I fervently believe that God designs the victories for His followers.
Navigating through the complexities of life, I also believe that God helps those who help themselves.
Quite often, there can be indescribable phases of confusion and conflict in our lives for no fault of ours, or we are simply sucked into a whirlpool due to the misadventures of others. That’s the crucial time when we must help ourselves even more than ever before! That’s the time God will help us even more than ever!!
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Prose section, my prose pieces are of mixed origin. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, we present the interviews of Dr. Shihab Ghanem an eminent poet residing in Dubai. He has numerous awards to his credit…. To view the interview kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Shihab-Ghanem-march-2018.php.
The Music Section has the melodious Bengali singer – Geeta Dutt, whose voice will live on amongst our fond memories. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/Geeta-Dutt-19.php
In the Book-Review section, Expat Ride by Mohammed Saifuddin is giving concise and precise information for expats. To view the same, kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/expat_ride_by_mohammed_saifuddin.php
The Photo-News section has moments of joy shared with my family & friends. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Family-Friends-Reunion.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog and Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I have always been a scribbler of sorts. As a child, I scribbled titles for my drawings of birds and boats and flowers and even other objects that possessed dark elements. Between my doodles and scribbles, (at that point) to ward off my fears, I would never miss to include drawing God by imposing the sun in the pictures’ framework. God and the sun simply assured me of reasonable stability.
Till today, I have remained a scribbler! I scribble my poetic and prose thoughts on current subjects; now with the passage of years there’s an expanded space to draw human forms and environments facing a grim future. The awareness of destructive forces, ranging from global climate change to shrinking forests to the fury of conflicts – now-here-now-there… scare the living daylights out of me. I’m sure, many of you might be going through what I go through….
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Prose section, my prose pieces are of mixed origin. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
For this month’s Issue, in the section of Different Dialogues we have the Interview with extended & enlarged version of – Ms. Patricia Al Fakhri – veteran water colourist based in Dubai and UK. To view it, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Patricia-Al-Fakhri-june.php.
In the Section of Music, I have written an article on: Why I want to sing without the mike. To view the same kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/Why_I_want_to_sing_without_the_mike_may2020.php
In the Book Review Section, I present the wonderful insight of an American swami; Sri Radhanath has written about his quest for life in the form of a book: The Journey Home. To view how I have absorbed the book, kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/The-Journey-Home.php
In the Section of Photo-News, moments of joy shared with my family. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/memories-with-family.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog and Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I have got certain 2024 Goals. They are diverse and I hope I can achieve those. I hope they will evolve me into a better human… braver, more mature in my character, meaning: me, being focused on inner courage to face conflict with the spirit of Bhagvad Gita – which talks of our respective responsibilities towards parivar (family) and samaj (society).
This month, our daughter Dr. Vibha Chhabra Bakshi had the honour of delivering the keynote address at Yale University followed by the screening of her multi-award winning documentary ‘SON RISE’. This was followed by speaking at Harvard University for the largest India focused conference in the United States.
Vibha’s film ‘SON RISE’ has been selected for UN’s Academic Impact across 1,400 universities to use the power of the Arts to promote human rights. Sharing with you all selects from her Academic Impact tour.
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Prose section, my prose pieces are of mixed origin. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Section of Different Dialogues, we present the interview of the Moroccan born Poet and Professor – Dr. Hassan Elmrani from Dubai. To view the interview, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Hassan-Elmrani-2020.php.
In the Section of Music, we have the late singer whose voice enriched the roles of many seasoned actors. Manna Dey is his name. To know about him, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/Manna-Dey.php
In the Book Review Section, The Last Nizam by John Zubrzycki is an intriguing book on the royals of Hyderabad-India. Please click on
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/The-Last-Nizam-by-John-Zubrzycki.php
In Photo-News I share some photos of my daughter Dr. Vibha Chhabra Bakshi’s Academic Impact tour. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/various-universities.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook and my tweets on Twitter. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I have got certain 2024 Goals. They are diverse and I hope I can achieve those. I hope they will evolve me into a better human… braver, more mature in my character, meaning: me, being focused on inner courage to face conflict with the spirit of Bhagvad Gita – which talks of our respective responsibilities towards parivar (family) and samaj (society).
This month, our daughter Dr. Vibha Chhabra Bakshi had the honour of delivering the keynote address at Yale University followed by the screening of her multi-award winning documentary ‘SON RISE’. This was followed by speaking at Harvard University for the largest India focused conference in the United States.
Vibha’s film ‘SON RISE’ has been selected for UN’s Academic Impact across 1,400 universities to use the power of the Arts to promote human rights. Sharing with you all selects from her Academic Impact tour.
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Prose section, my prose pieces are of mixed origin. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Section of Different Dialogues, we present the interview of the Moroccan born Poet and Professor – Dr. Hassan Elmrani from Dubai. To view the interview, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Hassan-Elmrani-2020.php.
In the Section of Music, we have the late singer whose voice enriched the roles of many seasoned actors. Manna Dey is his name. To know about him, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/Manna-Dey.php
In the Book Review Section, The Last Nizam by John Zubrzycki is an intriguing book on the royals of Hyderabad-India. Please click on
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/The-Last-Nizam-by-John-Zubrzycki.php
In Photo-News I share some photos of my daughter Dr. Vibha Chhabra Bakshi’s Academic Impact tour. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/various-universities.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook and my tweets on Twitter. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Another new year’s beginnings for us, and a lot of reasons to be thankful to God Almighty.
We all have our goals to reach. Personally, I have a book (my fourth one) to complete, and I hope it is going to happen in 2024.
While, I was putting the content of my monthly blog together, a thought focused me to ponder on the term: Moral Bankruptcy.
When I checked on the meaning of this term, it multiplied my thoughts, furthermore.
I found that it is the most accurate word for me, if I shut my eyes, or remain a helpless spectator watching misconduct of persons whose misdeeds amount to illegality.
Please remember, each of us has to take the responsibility to respect the fact that each of us is a society-builder. Therefore, brick by brick, we have to nurture our values towards this direction of building our space, our environment towards positive possibilities, and not leave this important aspect… simply to “others”.
On another vein… an important vein, my older daughter, Vibha Bakshi is always unravelling and creating facets of social impact that make my spouse and me so proud and happy. More success to her for 2024 for all her endeavors.
Last but not the least, prayers for universal health and happiness… prayers for universal peace.
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are from my three books: An Indian Ode To The Emirates & No Journey Ends (both books are published by Motivate Publishing) and, Smash My Glass (published by Cyberwit.net). To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Prose section, my prose pieces are of mixed origin. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Section of Different Dialogues, we have the extended & enlarged Interview of Ms. Shelly Young – an Art Historian in Dubai-UAE. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Shelly_Young_aug.php.
In the Music Section, I present a piece, captioned: A Hymn… banat, banat, ban jai which I composed after reading about the great Indian Saint Sri Lahiri Mahasaya. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/A_Hymn.php
In the Book Review Section, we have The Age of Shirdi Sai by Dr. Chandra Bhanu Satpathy. To see the review, kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Age-of-Shirdi-Sai.php
Photo-News displays photos of my daughter Vibha Bakshi’s multi-award-winning documentary film SON RISE. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/SON-RISE-2024.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook and my tweets on Twitter. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Another new year’s beginnings for us, and a lot of reasons to be thankful to God Almighty.
We all have our goals to reach. Personally, I have a book (my fourth one) to complete, and I hope it is going to happen in 2024.
While, I was putting the content of my monthly blog together, a thought focused me to ponder on the term: Moral Bankruptcy.
When I checked on the meaning of this term, it multiplied my thoughts, furthermore.
I found that it is the most accurate word for me, if I shut my eyes, or remain a helpless spectator watching misconduct of persons whose misdeeds amount to illegality.
Please remember, each of us has to take the responsibility to respect the fact that each of us is a society-builder. Therefore, brick by brick, we have to nurture our values towards this direction of building our space, our environment towards positive possibilities, and not leave this important aspect… simply to “others”.
On another vein… an important vein, my older daughter, Vibha Bakshi is always unravelling and creating facets of social impact that make my spouse and me so proud and happy. More success to her for 2024 for all her endeavors.
Last but not the least, prayers for universal health and happiness… prayers for universal peace.
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are from my three books: An Indian Ode To The Emirates & No Journey Ends (both books are published by Motivate Publishing) and, Smash My Glass (published by Cyberwit.net). To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Prose section, my prose pieces are of mixed origin. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Section of Different Dialogues, we have the extended & enlarged Interview of Ms. Shelly Young – an Art Historian in Dubai-UAE. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Shelly_Young_aug.php.
In the Music Section, I present a piece, captioned: A Hymn… banat, banat, ban jai which I composed after reading about the great Indian Saint Sri Lahiri Mahasaya. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/A_Hymn.php
In the Book Review Section, we have The Age of Shirdi Sai by Dr. Chandra Bhanu Satpathy. To see the review, kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Age-of-Shirdi-Sai.php
Photo-News displays photos of my daughter Vibha Bakshi’s multi-award-winning documentary film SON RISE. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/SON-RISE-2024.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook and my tweets on Twitter. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
The ongoing conflicts in different parts of the world, AND, global warming represent tragically alarming milestones.
We are aware. Scores of countries are currently at war. The upheavals of the ongoing conflicts have thrown the lives of innocent people into unimaginable turmoil and uncertainty. From small children to the elderly have been killed, maimed or displaced.
We are aware. Land and water species are extinct due to climate change. The extinction rate in now happening up to 100 times faster because all plants and animals have a temperature range within which they are best suited to survive and thrive.
The above issues are, and will be, impacting every one of us. There is still time for us to mend things. Let us mend our ways by working together to make our world a better place. Our collective prayers backed with positive actions will go a long way.
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are from my third book: Smash My Glass. The poems are based on the topic of peace and war. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Prose section, some of my prose pieces are from the book: Smash my Glass. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In our Issue, in the section of Different Dialogues we present the inspiring interview of Dr. R.K. Kapoor – Ophthalmologist. To view his interview, Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/R-K-Kapoor.php.
In the Music Section, we have Bhajan – II (A Devotional Song). Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/Bhajan-II-A-Devotional-Song.php
In the Book Review Section, we have: The Never Lonely Planet by Martin R. Oliver. To view the same, please click on
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/The-Never-Lonely.php
Photo-News displays photographs of the Award that our company, Inter Ocean Ship Repair LLC received from The Maritime Standard for the Category of Technical Support Services, on 7th November 2023 at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, UAE. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/At-The-Maritime-Standard.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook and my tweets on Twitter. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Every so often, I pour my heart out to my anguished self, searching for answers about the ongoing wars and conflicts raging in different parts of our world.
So many innocent people have died!
Utter destruction of precious resources!
It is all so senseless!
Please, let us pray for Universal Peace and Harmony.
The power of prayers is such, it can move mountains, it can change the paths of oceans.
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Prose section, my prose pieces are of mixed origin. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, we present the Interview with Extended & Enlarged Interview of Ibrahim Al Tatoor who is working for the protection of Children’s Rights at Sharjah Social Services Department in UAE. To view the interview kindly click onhttp://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Ahmed-Ibrahim-Al-Tartoor-2023.php.
The Music Section has a devotional song. To view the song, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/Devotional-Song-5-2017.php
In the Book Review Section, we have Rabindranath Tagore’s: Chokher Bali. It is a striking story – depicting the Indian social scene of his time. To view the same, please click on
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Chokher-Bali-july2014.php
Photo-News displays photographs of the bygone years. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Memories-of-a-Tea-Party.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook and Instagram. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
With uncertainties over the future in the war-impacted regions, we must make time to pray for those who are suffering from the ongoing conflicts.
The pain will prolong for all! If peace does not return.
Prayers for Universal Peace and Inter Faith Harmony are much needed.
There are special powers in prayers!
Alike, millions, these topics have always captured my attention.
My third book: Smash My Glass, prompted me to write about war-and-peace related issues in poetic and prose form.
The book is available on:
https://www.amazon.com/Smash-My-Glass-Geeta-Chhabra/dp/8182535794
https://www.cyberwit.net/publications/838
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/303305204629
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27431783-smash-my-glass?ac=1&from_search=true&fbclid=IwAR0fOgqRX9FSBEu-X_Fdh2GNTKOCvKC9PHZ0mpmMN__hujg0Nx0q8NLGXEw
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Prose section, my prose pieces are of mixed origin. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
For this month’s Issue, in the Section of Different Dialogues, we have posted the interview of Navdeep Singh Suri; this interview took place when he was India’s ambassador to the UAE in June 2018. It is an insightful interview. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Navdeep-Singh-Suri.php.
The Music Section has a contemporary song in Hindi whose lyrics and tune is composed by me. To view the song, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/A-Devotional-Song-in-Hindi-Language.php
In the Book Review Section, we have Wilfred Theseiger’s book: Arabian Sands. It is an inspiring piece of work. To view the same, please click on
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Arabian-Sands.php
Photo-News displays photographs of the bygone years. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Captured-moments-2023.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook and Instagram. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
How the day flies! I feel blessed to make this statement, because it means that the time has passed without any doubt with a feeling of contentment and relief.
One hour of daily morning meditation.
One hour of daily physio.
One hour of evening walk.
Three hours of research on my related-works.
Three hours of writing and reflecting on the chapters of my current novel.
The day is packed with activities and how! Much to thank God Almighty’s benevolence. Much to thank the gurus for their guidance.
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Prose section, my prose pieces are of mixed origin. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In Different Dialogues, we have a veteran diplomat who represented India in different parts of the world. The journey of Mr. Kamal Nayan Bakshi is an interesting one… it enlightens the true meaning of life, itself. To view the interview, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Kamal-Nayan-Bakshi-april17.php.
In the Music Section, we present Mirabai – the ancient Indian poetess who was devoted to Lord Krishn. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/melodies-of-mirabai-sep23.php
The book of the month is: The Help by Kathryn Stockett. To view the review of the book, please click on
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/The_Help_by_Kathryn_Stockett.php
Photo-News displays photographs of the bygone years. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/sweet-memories-2023.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook and Instagram. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Kudos to India’s Space Agency ISRO for launching Chandrayaan-3 Mission to the southern sphere of the moon. I am so proud of my motherland. Jai Bharat! The moon looks so serene – but landing on its lunar surface poses perilous challenges. I, alike, millions of other people, wish India the very best for all her endeavors.
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Prose section, my prose pieces are of mixed origin. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Section of Different Dialogues, we present the interview of our former Indian Ambassador to the UAE. Meet the man! His Excellency T.P. Seetharam. To view the interview, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/T-P-Seetharam-oct2017.php.
In the Music Section: The Song - Karman Ki Gatti Nyari Udho is thought provoking. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/The_Song_Karman_Ki_Gatti_Nyari_Udho.php
The book of the month is The Best Short Stories of O. Henry. Do check it out by clicking on:
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/the-best-short-stories-of-o-henry.php
Photo-News displays photographs of the bygone years. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/The-Poetic-Heart.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook and Instagram. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I observe from my own experiences: to be balancing family responsibilities with one’s interests in creative work (in my case with writing) is not easy. I have been trying my best to achieve a balance between both these spheres, but sometimes it has been challenging, especially, as I am putting the chapters of my book together based on my childhood years.
In this whole process as I come in and out of secluded retreats that supply a teeming mass of nostalgia about my birthplace, Amritsar – there is so much more to be included, and Time is running off with such speed. But I am secure in the conviction that soon things will shape up for the better. I need the best wishes of my family and friends.
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Prose section, my prose pieces are of mixed origin. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Section of Different Dialogues, we have the extended & enlarged version of Malini Chib’s interview. Malini is a champion who has fought adversaries of sorts and triumphed. To view her interview, please click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Malini-Chib.php.
In the Music Section we present the joyous experiences of spiritual-Indian-form of music: known as ‘Kirtan’. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/kirtan_jan2011.php
In the Book Review section, the book: WHAT A CEO REALLY WANTS FROM YOU by R. Gopalkrishnan is presented. To know what the wise author has to share, kindly click on:
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/what_the_ceo_really_wants_from_you_by_r_gopalakrishnan
.php
Photo-News displays photographs of the bygone years. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/precious-memories.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook and Instagram. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
It was a landmark event for my spouse Ved and me to attend the DMET-MERI Alumni Meet on the evening of 10th June 2023 at Taj Exotica, Palm, Dubai – where the Legendary Alumni Award was conferred upon Ved. It was such a special moment for us. We thank the august gathering of DMETians and their spouses for participating in the celebrations.
The DMET (Directorate of Marine Engineering Training) began its operations on 10th August 1949 in temporary facilities in Boribunder in Bombay (now Mumbai) and Gorachand Road in Park Circus in Calcutta (now Kolkata) with a total intake of 50 students (20 at Bombay and 30 at Calcutta). Since then, the institute has come a very long way to produce some of the finest marine engineers who are recognized, internationally, for their skills and competence. May this fraternity continue to prosper!
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Prose section, my prose pieces are of mixed origin. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
This month, in the Section of Different Dialogues, we have Bubbles Kandhari – vice chairperson of the Guru Nanak Darbar in Dubai. She is a dynamic lady so blessed to do what she is doing. Kindly connect with the link http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Interview-of-Bubbles-Kandhari-2020.php.
In the Music Section, Suraiya – the Indian playback singer and actress in Bollywood in the 1940s and 1950s is covered. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/Suraiya.php
In the Book Review section, the book: Effective Business in the Gulf by Nicolai Tillisch is presented. The book is effective, especially for those who are looking for different aspects of business in the GCC. The format is precise, the style of the author is racy and uncomplicated. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/effective-business-in-the-gulf-by-nicolai-tillisch.php
Photo-News displays photographs of the DMET-MERI Alumni Meet. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/DMET.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook and Instagram. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Home is where your heart belongs. In my case, I have two homes (Mumbai-Dubai) where my heart belongs. Visits to my motherland are always nostalgic; there is no way out of nostalgia… I can recollect so many memories! And yes, my deep connection with Mumbai where I made my home, soon after marriage. Through this journey came these fabulous experiences of being a wife, a mother, a grandmother and much more! As the river of time moves on, it continues to carve out pictures of the past of many shades.
In the UAE, on 12th May 2023, I was invited over a zoom session to share my thoughts on my poetic journey with the pupils and faculty members of Mayoor Private School, Abu Dhabi. I felt privileged to represent The Poetic Heart: Connecting Humanity by SGI Gulf and I thank Dr. Shihab Ghanem for giving me this opportunity. I enjoyed the whole experience.
This month, my daughter, Dr. Vibha Bakshi’s is coming again to Dubai on a wonderful project that she has taken up… stay tuned!
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are taken from my three books: An Indian Ode To The Emirates, No Journey Ends and Smash My Glass. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Prose section, my prose pieces are of mixed origin. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In Different Dialogues, we have the latest Interview with Extended & Enlarged Version of Mr. Ravi Dev Gupta – President of EKAL Vidyalaya Foundation of India – a non-government education movement in India. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Ravi-Dev-Gupta-2023.php.
In the Music Section, Kanan Devi is featured. To know about the melodious Bengali singer cum actress, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/kanan-devi-may.php
In the Book-Review Section, Khushwant Singh’s book: ABSOLUTE KHUSHWANT – is absolute Khushwant…! To view the same, kindly click on:
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/ABSOLUTE_KHUSHWANT_
by_Khushwant_Singh_with_Humra_Quraishi.php
Photo-News displays photographs of my zoom call with the pupils of Mayoor Private School, Abu Dhabi and Poetic Heart. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Mayoor-Pvt-School.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook and Instagram. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
When my spouse and I decided to make Dubai our second home in 1996, we had apprehensions on how it would be medical wise.
Today, based on our own experiences, Dubai has advanced remarkably and the medical establishments are geared well to deal not only with chronic heart and pulmonary issues, but in dentistry, eye-care and physiotherapy also. To know more, kindly go through my prose piece: Gems for Us in Dubai.
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
For more prose pieces, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In this Issue, in the Section of Different Dialogues, we have Surender Kandhari – Founder & Chairman of Al Dobowi Group, Dubai (UAE). His interview also follows the storyline of his visit with his spouse, Bubbles Kandhari, to Darbar Sahib Gurudwara in Kartarpur-Pakistan for celebrating the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji in 2019. He and Bubbles Kandhari have played a very vital role in the construction of Guru Nanak Durbar-Dubai, which is an iconic monument of Dubai! To view the interview kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Surender-Singh-Kandhari-2019.php.
In the Music Section, we have Pankaj Mullick. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/Pankaj-Mullick.php
In the Book Review Section, we have Time On Hand by Dennis John Ferado. To see the review, please click on
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Time-On-Hand-by-Dennis-John-Ferado.php
Photo-News for this month displays photographs of Surender Kandhari, our esteemed guest in the section of Different Dialogues and some of the doctors of the medical fraternity in UAE. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Surinder-Kandhari-Follower.php http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Gems-for-Us-in-Dubai.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook and Instagram. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Till recent years, I did not fully understand the true value of physio therapy. Of course, I have been an avid walker from my school days, a hobby which I inculcated from my maternal grandfather and mother.
As life moves at its own space, lifestyles change with time. That’s also why things move ahead. In certainty, physio therapy has become a household word; however, many people think that physio therapy is for the sick and the ailing. Only when someone gets stuck with an excruciating aching back, or, with a frozen shoulder, sessions are urgently booked with a therapist.
From my perspective, physio therapy should be our way of life. It is well-worth sparing time and money on hiring services of a verified therapist who has both the qualifications and experience in this sphere. Daily practice (without overdoing) is highly beneficial. It is like being rewarded with a premium insurance cover!
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Prose section, my prose pieces are of mixed origin. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, we have the Interview with Extended & Enlarged Version of Mr. Narain R. Sawlani who has a treasure trove of memories, connected with Dubai in its late 1950s and onwards. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Narain-R-Sawlani-2023.php.
In the Music Section, Qawwali is featured. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/Qawwali.php
The book of the month is A Year in Province by Peter Mayle. Do check it out by clicking on
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/A_Year_in_Provence_by_Peter_Mayle.php
Photo-News displays photographs of a gone by era, taken by Narain R. Sawlani, our esteemed guest in the section of Different Dialogues for this month. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Narain-Sawlani-2
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook and Instagram. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
These past weeks: my whole being is drawn, time and again, to the famous Sanskrit quote: VASUDHAIVA KUTUMBAKAM, that appears in the Maha Upanishad; the Upanishads are late Vedic Sanskrit texts which supply the later Hindu philosophy.
VASUDHAIVA KUTUMBAKAM means, “The World Is One Family.” It would be a most wonderful victory for mankind if we could implement norms to build / unify the world as one family.
For me, a most wonderful experience of life-long supreme fortune is to see the UAE striving with immense focus to create examples of glittering dynamic… dynamics of boundarylessness. Seeing is believing!
For sure! Seeing is believing! And this month has been a gorgeous eye-opener-month… researching / visiting the different religious places in the UAE. I was privileged to visit twice the site where the BAPS Temple is coming up speedily in Abu Dhabi. Both the trips rewarded me with exhilarating experiences of interaction, by the way of discussing about interfaith, harmony and coexistence. I went to the Guru Nanak Darbar (the Sikh gurudwara) at Jebel Ali in Dubai which has already established a tremendous sense of goodwill not only in the UAE, but internationally.
Adjacent to the Guru Nanak Darbar, the newly constructed Hindu Temple beholds a beatific ambiance for its faithful followers. One evening, I relished walking alone in a leisurely pace in the Churches Complex in Jebel Ali Village. Praying inside one of the earliest mosques of Ras Al Khaimah was an added bonus for me, including a brief halt at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubai. In the forthcoming Issues of my blog, I will be sharing many more thoughts regarding what UAE is achieving by becoming a global hub in promoting peace and harmony by its own example.
In the Prose Section, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php to know what great initiatives UAE has adopted to promote tolerance and coexistence.
In the Poetry Section, I am sharing poems which I have dedicated to Dubai – which is my second home. My attachment with the culture and landscape of the UAE began decades ago. It started in no time, and grew quite rapidly. This process gave birth to my first book: An Indian Ode to the Emirates. To view my poems kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, we have the Interview (with Extended & Enlarged Version) of Neena Singh – a distinctively creative painter, whose whole-time vocation now is to merge her soul in an array of colours. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Neena-Singh-2022.php.
In the Music Section, we have the Ghazals of the iconic poet, Faiz Ahmed Faiz. Please click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/Faiz-Ahmed-Faiz.php
The book of the month is Good Housekeeping Home Hints by Good Housekeeping Institute. Enjoy the tips! Do check it out by clicking on
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/home_hints_by_good_housekeeping_institute.php
Photo-News Section contains more photographs of Vibha-Vishal’s Wedding Anniversary of Super 25 Years! To view the photographs, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Wedding-Anniversary-2.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Let us pray and hope that 2023 brings harmony and tranquility around our world. They are much needed!
These are exciting times with newer technologies showing mankind advancements in medicine and science. There is one more aspect that can bring positive changes around each of us; and that is to be aware of the Omnipresence of God Almighty – the One and Only God – known by different names.
I am feeling so good to be a part of an international anthology. The book captioned: An Anthology of Women’s Poetry of India and South Africa – Feminism, its Reflections in Contemporary Politics. The book is edited by Amitabh Mitra & Zena Velloo John and published by Poets Printery.
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Section of Different Dialogues we have Dr. Janaki Rangarajan whose dazzling solo performance gained moral strength for Natyanjali’s fortune. The beautiful exponent was invited as the special guest to perform in UAE. Her movements adorned natural grace creating all the measures of the ancient traditions of this Indian classical dance form. Janaki’s presence as a performer seemed limitless. To know more about Dr. Janaki Rangarajan, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Dr-Janaki-Rangarajan-april.php.
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Music Section, we have the song Karman Ki Gatti Nyari Udho – the Brij Bhasha lyrics of Sur Das. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/The_Song_Karman_Ki_Gatti_Nyari_Udho.php
In the Book-Review section, A Princess Remembers by Gayatri Devi, is a book to be remembered. To view the same, kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/A_Princess_Remembers_by_Gayatri_Devi.php
Photo-News Section contains photographs of Vibha-Vishal’s Wedding Anniversary of Super 25 Years! More photographs will be shared in the following Issue. To view the photographs, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Wedding-Anniversary.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Let us pray and hope that 2023 brings harmony and tranquility around our world. They are much needed!
These are exciting times with newer technologies showing mankind advancements in medicine and science. There is one more aspect that can bring positive changes around each of us; and that is to be aware of the Omnipresence of God Almighty – the One and Only God – known by different names.
I am feeling so good to be a part of an international anthology. The book captioned: An Anthology of Women’s Poetry of India and South Africa – Feminism, its Reflections in Contemporary Politics. The book is edited by Amitabh Mitra & Zena Velloo John and published by Poets Printery.
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Section of Different Dialogues we have Dr. Janaki Rangarajan whose dazzling solo performance gained moral strength for Natyanjali’s fortune. The beautiful exponent was invited as the special guest to perform in UAE. Her movements adorned natural grace creating all the measures of the ancient traditions of this Indian classical dance form. Janaki’s presence as a performer seemed limitless. To know more about Dr. Janaki Rangarajan, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Dr-Janaki-Rangarajan-april.php.
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Music Section, we have the song Karman Ki Gatti Nyari Udho – the Brij Bhasha lyrics of Sur Das. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/The_Song_Karman_Ki_Gatti_Nyari_Udho.php
In the Book-Review section, A Princess Remembers by Gayatri Devi, is a book to be remembered. To view the same, kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/A_Princess_Remembers_by_Gayatri_Devi.php
Photo-News Section contains photographs of Vibha-Vishal’s Wedding Anniversary of Super 25 Years! More photographs will be shared in the following Issue. To view the photographs, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Wedding-Anniversary.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Dubai is having beautiful weather, and everything is so festive with lots of tourists from all over the world.
Last week, GrayMatter and Gulf News joined hands to unveil latest edition of Super 100 Series which encapsulates stories of business leaders / achievers and young professionals from India in the UAE and wider GCC region. Congratulations to all those who have made it in the list of Super 100 Series. I and my spouse, Ved Chhabra, feel humbled and privileged to be one among them.
I am sharing the link of Gulf News on the above. Kindly click on https://gulfnews.com/business/graymatter-and-gulf-news-join-hands-to-unveil-latest-edition-of-super-100-series-1.92846942
Going to The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina is always a relishing experience of fine dining. Chef de Cuisine, Khamphun Plangthaidong is so versatile that he amazes you how he has mastered the art of capturing the best food flavors. Ahra Go, the Sui Mui Manager is a lady who is ever-attentive to see that her guests are receiving the attention.
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Section of Different Dialogues, the interview of (late) Maryam Behnam is my way of remembering the grand old lady – who passed away on 4th December 2014 in Dubai-UAE. She lives on! To view her interview, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Maryam-Behnam-2020.php.
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Music Section, we have Shamshad Begum. Please click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/On-Shamshad-Begum-april.php
The book of the month is The Samurai’s Garden by Gail Tsukiyama. Do check it out by clicking on
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/The_Samurais_Garden_by_Gail_Tsukiyama.php
Photo-News Section contains the photographs of the festive season with family & friends. To view the photographs, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Festive-Season-Full-of-Warmth.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Wishing you a prosperous New Year of 2023.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
The weather in Dubai is perfectly beautiful! Cool breeze, gentle sunny days, and evenings are great for leisurely walks.
More than everything, Dubai’s air is pure and crisp. Traffic is well-regulated. Infrastructure gives the proof that it is getting better and better. There’s a general sense of harmony! May God Almighty’s grace be on all of us.
Between my writing and family duties – there’s never a dull moment. It’s a great feeling in enjoying what we do! Right?
I’m working with speed to complete my latest book. It is almost an unending task, but the whole process is mentally rewarding and I am indebted to those who are helping me in all of this.
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, this month we have for my blog, the Interview (with Extended & Enlarged Version) of Isobel Abulhoul – Founder-Director of the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature, Dubai, UAE. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Isobel-Abulhoul-2022.php.
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Music Section, I present The Sound of Om / Aum. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/The-Sound-of-Om-Aum.php
The book of the month is Willie’s Chocolate Bible by Willie Harcourt-Cooze. Do check it out by clicking on
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/willies-chocolate-bible-by-willie-harcourt-cooze.php
Photo-News Section contains the photographs of Family Moments. To view the photographs, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Family-Memories2022.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
It has been a continuous endeavour for me to complete my latest book on my childhood memories; I have gotten more and more nostalgic about those days in Amritsar, the place of my birth and the school years.
I am hoping to release two books by the coming year of 2023. I am excited and apprehensive!
Dubai weather is getting pleasanter with each day passing… planning to go outdoors to edit my books, sitting in a park or a café under the open skies.
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, this month we have for my blog, the Interview (with Extended & Enlarged Version) of Jyoti Uplenchwar – Vice Chairperson of Snehi – a Delhi-based non-profit registered organization. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Jyoti-Uplenchwar-oct2022.php.
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Section of Music, I have taken a devotional song in Hindi and translated it in the English language. To view the same kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/Devotional-Song-5-2017.php
In the Book Review section, we have the book: On the Style of Somerset Maugham. Kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/on_the_style_oct2022.phpp
Photo-News Section contains the photographs of Happy Diwali Memories with Family and Friends. To view the photographs, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Happy-Diwali-Memories.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
To remain calm at all events, that is what our scriptures teach us; and that is how I was! In this week of September, especially.
I might even say that I had “some” kind of a premonition of a challenging episode coming my way. Well, with God’s benevolence, and devotion of noble doctors, it is behind us.
September has also been a time when I have fervently begun with new things – to polish my knowledge and get the feeling of extra-wellness. And what are those new things? Well, they are: taking lessons in spoken Arabic; concentrating more on my physio routine, and doing practice-lessons on the laptop. Of course, the daily evening walk and chanting are the best tonics in my life.
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, we have the Interview (with Extended & Enlarged Version) of Jogiraj Sikidar – Founder-Director of Malhaar. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/mr-jogiraj_sikidar_sep2022.php.
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Music Section, we have Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/Ustad-Nusrat-Fateh-Ali-Khan.php
In the Book Review section, the book: In the Rose Garden of the Martyrs by Christopher de Bellaigue is presented. Kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/in-the-rose-garden-of-the-martyrs-by-christopher-de-bellaigue.php
Photo-News Section contains the photographs of Happy & Prosperous Recollections. To view the photographs, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Happy-Prosperous.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
There is always pondering in our minds about what our lives are about; what is the purpose of our existence, and where do we go after our term on earth.
My personal belief is that our journeys will go on and on - no journey ends!
And as a learner, I have grasped with conviction that faith and prayers are two forms of nourishments that keep me on the path of evolvement.
And what is evolvement?
For me, evolvement means to take joys and tragedies with equal grace, and perform my duties as sincerely as I can, no matter how the situation is. Emotions and Ego must be controlled, for a better state of mind. I try and try!
Meanwhile, with pride and humility, I share with you that my spouse, Ved Chhabra has been conferred the Honorary Doctorate for Excellence in the Maritime Industry last month.
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, we have the Interview (with Extended & Enlarged Version) of H.E. Mirza Al Sayegh – Ex Director of the office of (Late) H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Sheikh_Hamdan_2022.php.
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Music Section we have Talat Mahmood. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/Talat-Mahmood.php
In the Book Review Section, we have the book: The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows. Please click on
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/the_guernsey_literary_and_potato_peel_pie_society.php
Photo-News Section contains the pictures at Dusit Thani-Dubai, UAE, where my spouse received his Honorary Doctorate on 23rd July 2022. I also got on to the memory lane, when on 18th May 2018 our daughter, Vibha Bakshi was honoured in the USA at Boston University with an honorary doctorate; I share those pictures, too! To view the photographs, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Ved-Chhabra-being.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
The month of July has been momentous in many ways – gratitude to God Almighty.
Dubai, my second home is prosperous!
Covid is no longer a threat… it comes and goes away – without much trouble.
Family has been here from India; what a blessing!
And work on my forthcoming book is making good progress… I have well-wishers who are experts in giving their analytical reviews.
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry Section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, we have the Interview (with Extended & Enlarged Version) of Neena Singh – a distinctively creative painter, and whose whole-time vocation is of an Income Tax Professional. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Neena-Singh-2022.php.
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Music Section we have the philosopher / saint / poet – Kabir. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/A-Concert-with-Kabir.php
In the Book Review Section, we have the book: Looking at Life Differently by Swami Sukhabodhandanda. Please click on
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Looking_At_Life_Differently_by_Swami_Sukhabodhananda.php
Photo-News contains images of mixed memories. To view the photographs, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Joy-in-many-elements.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
What a proud moment for India!
The International Booker Prize this year is won by the Indian writer Geetanjali Shree… for a novel originally written in Hindi – a first for the prestigious award, and translated into English by the title: Tomb of Sand. The translator of the book is Daisy Rockwell. Congratulations to both the ladies!
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In Different Dialogues, we have Mr. Sanjay Verma, who was India’s former Consul General to UAE. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Mr-Sanjay-Verma.php.
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Music Section, I present The Sound of Om / Aum. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/The-Sound-of-Om-Aum.php
In the Book Review Section, Boats On Land by Janice Pariat is a collection of short stories. Please click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Boats-On-Land-by-Janice-Pariat.php
Photo-News contains images of past memories. To view the photographs, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/little-moments.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
The weather is getting hotter, and I think of the times of not long ago – when there were hardly any modern amenities in this region. Building the infra structure in the UAE must have been of tremendous challenges; the progress that has taken place is the living proof of valiant leadership that has prevailed here. Great people make great nations – this is a universal truth. May our world see peace, happiness and harmony to establish better understanding amongst all of us. May India-UAE friendship prosper by the day – more and more! Both are my precious homes.
For this month’s Issue, in the Poetry section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, we have the interview covering the extended & enlarged version of the conversations, I have had with Dr. Sheilu Srinivasan – Founder of Dignity Foundation (India). To view the same, please click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Dr-Sheilu-Srinivasan-feb19.php.
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Music Section, we have Bhajan – II (A Devotional Song). Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/Bhajan-II-A-Devotional-Song.php
In the Book Review Section, we have The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson. To see the review, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/the_girl_with_the_dragon_tatoo_stieg_larsson.php
In the section of Photo-News, I share some mixed memories of my participation as a poet / author / panellist at various literary events in UAE. To view the photographs, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/mixed-Memories2022.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I am honoured & privileged to share the good news that our daughter, Dr. Vibha Bakshi (multi National Award winning film director & producer) received a full house standing ovation at Expo 2020 Dubai. We witnessed a historic moment of global solidarity with United Nations, New Zealand, India & Women’s Pavilion uniting the world at Expo 2020’s largest venue – Jubilee Stage to take a stand on gender equality & safety at Vibha Bakshi’s Son Rise – documentary film’s screening.
Congratulations to the incredible team behind the Expo 2020 Dubai & the 200 Pavilions for their commitment in making Expo 2020 Dubai a stupendous success. Let’s together build a safer & equitable world for all.
The legacy of Expo 2020 Dubai is now ours to take forward.
I also take the pleasure of sharing with you my recent interview with Tasnima Yasmin who has included my first book: An Indian Ode To The Emirates in her PhD Thesis. Please do take a look at the link of my interview which is: https://thewomaninc.com/2022/04/15/the-woman-ink-conversation-with-geeta-chhabra/
In the section of Photo-News, I share some nostalgic memories of Emirates Airline Festival of Literature where I participated as a poet / author / panellist in 2013. To view the LitFest photographs, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/fond-memories-of-LitFest.php
In the section of Photo-News, I also share photographs of the party that we hosted at home; it was a great pleasure for me and my family to catch up with our extended family and friends after ages and ages due to the pandemic. We followed the social norms of not making the numbers too large. Inshallah, there will be another occasion for another gathering. To view the photographs kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Dubai-Marina.php
This month, from my collection of verse, I have taken some of the poems from my first book: An Indian Ode To The Emirates. Please click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, we have the interview covering the extended & enlarged version of the conversations, I have had with Ms. Isobel Abulhoul – Founder-Director of The Emirates Airline Festival of Literature. To view the same, please click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Isobel-Abulhoul.php.
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Music Section, we present Mirabai – the ancient Indian poetess who was devoted to Lord Krishn. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/Mirabai.php
In the Book Review Section, we have Nissim Ezekiel’s Collected Poems (1952-1988). To see the review, kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Collected-Poems-of-Nissim-Ezekiel.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
These are times… happy times that the Covid Pandemic has somewhat become lesser and lesser – what a relief!
These are times… tumultuous times to witness the war in Ukraine seeing no end!
This month, from my collection of verse, I am sharing poems on conflict and the subsequent ramifications of conflict. Please click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, we are presenting extended & enlarged version of Dr. Qais Ghanem’s interview. He has an interesting profile as a poet, novelist and radio host. To view the same, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Qais-Ghanem.php.
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Section of Music, a devotional song is there to soothe our souls. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/bhajan-I.php
Book Review Section covers Tehmina Durrani’s book: My Feudal Lord. To view the book review, please click on
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/My-Feudal-Lord.php
In the Photo-News, I share photographs of my book launch events. To view the photographs kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/My-Book-Launch-Events.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Everyone enjoys brainy quotes – I came across a quote by Frank A. Clark: ‘If you can find a path with no obstacles, it probably doesn’t lead anywhere.’ My curiosity was aroused to find more about the man – he was an American lawyer and politician who served in public and private practice for around 50 years. Sometimes, a single quote can impact us as a special masterpiece, and sometimes it can take quite a while.
I remember my mother dropping her eyes and murmuring to me, ‘How can you get all the wisdom in one go, you’re only 12 years of age, right?’
But where is the valorous glory if we cannot follow words of wisdom? That’s like spreading a wet blanket upon oneself to keep warm!
A lesson of wisdom, I have learned and tested is: The daylight wanes, it certainly does; but sooner than later, sun has to appear and it does to enlarge our vision.
Meanwhile, I continue to spend delightfully, hours reading and writing… it’s a blessing to escape from the clutter of the world!
This month in the Poetry section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old and new collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
For this month’s Issue, in the section of Different Dialogues, we have the interview with extended and enlarged version of Dr. Mithu Alur - Founder Chairperson, ADAPT (formerly The Spastics Society of India). To view the interview kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Mithu-Alur-dec16.php.
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
Music Section covers the late legendary singer – Lata Mangeshkar. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/Lata-Mangeshkar.php
In the Book / Film Review section, the film: Mansfield Park by Patricia Rozema is presented. To view the same, kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Mansfield-Park-by-Patricia-Rozema.php
In the Photo-News, I share photographs of a musical show – Maayavi Dance Drama Concept that took place a decade ago. To view the photographs kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Memories-of-a-Decade-Ago.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
The weather in Dubai is splendid. Let’s hope that soon enough the pandemic times will be behind us as a piece of history. Collective prayers for the Universe must carry on in our hearts.
I am spending long happy hours in completing my forthcoming book – it is a perfect setting from my drawing room to be at my desk, watch the sun, sea and sand – all in plenty for my naked eye to see, and my inner eye to enjoy.
The trip to Maryland-USA left me enriched in many ways; one was by the composition of a collection of 3-line-poems describing some USA-moments. Is my 3-line verse, Haiku? There is no end to learning, ever!
This month in the Poetry section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old and new collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Section of Different Dialogues, we present the interview of Mr. K. Kumar, Convener of Indian Community Welfare Committee – Dubai, UAE. To view the interview, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Mr-K-Kumar-Convener.php.
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Music Section, Qawwali is featured. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/Qawwali.php
In the Book Review section, the book: The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga is presented. To view the same, kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/the-white-tiger-by-aravind-adiga.php
In the Photo-News, I share photographs of my EKAL Vanyatras where I visited some of the states in India to interact with the under privileged children and the EKAL schools. To view the photographs kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Recollecting-my-EKAL.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
The weather in Dubai is splendid. Let’s hope that soon enough the pandemic times will be behind us as a piece of history. Collective prayers for the Universe must carry on in our hearts.
I am spending long happy hours in completing my forthcoming book – it is a perfect setting from my drawing room to be at my desk, watch the sun, sea and sand – all in plenty for my naked eye to see, and my inner eye to enjoy.
The trip to Maryland-USA left me enriched in many ways; one was by the composition of a collection of 3-line-poems describing some USA-moments. Is my 3-line verse, Haiku? There is no end to learning, ever!
This month in the Poetry section, my poems are of a mixed content of emotions from my old and new collections. To view them kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Section of Different Dialogues, we present the interview of Mr. K. Kumar, Convener of Indian Community Welfare Committee – Dubai, UAE. To view the interview, kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Mr-K-Kumar-Convener.php.
The Prose Pieces for this Issue are from old time’s coves. Please connect to my prose pieces by clicking on http://geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the Music Section, Qawwali is featured. Kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/music/Qawwali.php
In the Book Review section, the book: The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga is presented. To view the same, kindly click on
http://geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/the-white-tiger-by-aravind-adiga.php
In the Photo-News, I share photographs of my EKAL Vanyatras where I visited some of the states in India to interact with the under privileged children and the EKAL schools. To view the photographs kindly click on http://geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Recollecting-my-EKAL.php
Viewers' Corner is brimming and active. I thank my social media friends and well-wishers for their interest in my Blog, Facebook. To view the comments kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue.
With warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
My country, India, will soon get the results of elections to decide the fate of 1.27 billion people. Netas – come and go with the momentum of votes!
Though India is making strides, the common man in India is still struggling for basic standards. Erasing illiteracy and poverty are huge challenges. Tackling the breed of politicians who are totally insensitive to the pain of down-trodden is the biggest menace. Laws passed should have the framework of punishing the corrupt who tarnish the reputation of India – including her trade, and other sectors of progress. So many of them get away - so lightly! Why? How?
In the Section of Poetry, the elements are mixed with love, loneliness, and there is a ray of sparkle in certain verse. To view my poems, kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php.
In the Section of Prose, the dimensions stretch on varied topics and thoughts. To be aware on some facts on Vitamin D, kindly click onhttp://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php.
In the Section of Different Dialogues, we present the personality of the month - Dr. Mithu Alur - a woman of real grit. She is the founder chairperson of ADAPT (formerly The Spastics Society of India). Kindly click on http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Dr-Mithu-Alur.php.
The Music Section has a contemporary song in Hindi whose lyrics and tune is composed by me. To view the song, kindly click on http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/A-Devotional-Song-in-Hindi-Language.php.
In the Book Review Section, we have His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s book: Flashes of Thoughts. It is an inspiring piece of work. To view the same, please click on http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Flashes-of-Thought.php.
For Photo-News, we have EKAL Dinner photographs welcoming Sri Lankan Cricket Celebrities Arjuna Ranatunga & Romesh Kaluwithrana. Kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/EKAL-Dinner-Gathering-at-Mahec-Restaurant-in-Le-Meridien-Hotel-Dubai.php . We also have a book launch group photograph – The author of Dubai Aerial Tour – Wouter Kingma is there with the group. Kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Book-Launch-of-Wouter-Kingmas-Dubai-Aerial-Tour.php
As usual, Viewers' Corner is never short of comments! Kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Enjoy the Issue!
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
It has been a matter of great privilege for me to have presented H.H Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum - Deputy Ruler of Dubai and the Minister of Finance and Industry of UAE, my second book: No Journey Ends, at Zabeel Palace, on 9th March 2014. Same evening, it was an equal honour to shake hands with H.H. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Head of Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Social Development-UAE. I humbly expressed my sentiments to the noble royals, by saying, 'Your Highnesses, today UAE stands as a shining model in front of the whole world!'
I sincerely thank H.E. Mirza Al Sayegh for giving me the wonderful opportunity to witness the grand occasion at Zabeel Palace - where Emirati girl-students were present in great majority, and they were all praising the Summer School Programme organized in Dundee-Scotland, which is sponsored by Al Maktoum Foundation.
By the way, according to The National of April 2014 report: Young Arab’s say the UAE is the best place to live.
Now, some thoughts to share about my two homelands - Mumbai and Dubai. While Dubai is quickly emerging as a leading global hub of advancement, Mumbai faces the reality of pavement dwellers. Will the elections in India change my beloved country's destiny to lift her towards steady and constant growth? I pray it happens!
On another sphere - focusing on Syria, I want to share a poem and prose piece - revealing my personal feelings for the suffering Syrians, and some facts on Syria.
In the Section of Poetry, do see a poem on Syria. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/april2014/A-Piece-on-Conscience.php
To view the prose piece on Syria, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/april2014/Sweet-Syria-Is-Burning.php
In the Section of Different Dialogues, we have Alison Collins - the founder of the famous Majlis Gallery-Dubai. To view her interview please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Ms-Alison-Collins.php
In the Section of Music, a devotional song is there to soothe our souls. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/Bhajan-I-A-Devotional-Song-april2014.php
Book Review Section covers Tehmina Durrani's book: My Feudal Lord. To view the book review, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/My-Feudal-Lord.php
In the Section of Photo-News, moments of joy shared with my family. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/photo_news.php
In the Section of Viewer's Corner, the readers are ever-active! Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
It has been a matter of great privilege for me to have presented H.H Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum - Deputy Ruler of Dubai and the Minister of Finance and Industry of UAE, my second book: No Journey Ends, at Zabeel Palace, on 9th March 2014. Same evening, it was an equal honour to shake hands with H.H. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Head of Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Social Development-UAE. I humbly expressed my sentiments to the noble royals, by saying, 'Your Highnesses, today UAE stands as a shining model in front of the whole world!'
I sincerely thank H.E. Mirza Al Sayegh for giving me the wonderful opportunity to witness the grand occasion at Zabeel Palace - where Emirati girl-students were present in great majority, and they were all praising the Summer School Programme organized in Dundee-Scotland, which is sponsored by Al Maktoum Foundation.
By the way, according to The National of April 2014 report: Young Arab’s say the UAE is the best place to live.
Now, some thoughts to share about my two homelands - Mumbai and Dubai. While Dubai is quickly emerging as a leading global hub of advancement, Mumbai faces the reality of pavement dwellers. Will the elections in India change my beloved country's destiny to lift her towards steady and constant growth? I pray it happens!
On another sphere - focusing on Syria, I want to share a poem and prose piece - revealing my personal feelings for the suffering Syrians, and some facts on Syria.
In the Section of Poetry, do see a poem on Syria. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/april2014/A-Piece-on-Conscience.php
To view the prose piece on Syria, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/april2014/Sweet-Syria-Is-Burning.php
In the Section of Different Dialogues, we have Alison Collins - the founder of the famous Majlis Gallery-Dubai. To view her interview please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Ms-Alison-Collins.php
In the Section of Music, a devotional song is there to soothe our souls. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/Bhajan-I-A-Devotional-Song-april2014.php
Book Review Section covers Tehmina Durrani's book: My Feudal Lord. To view the book review, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/My-Feudal-Lord.php
In the Section of Photo-News, moments of joy shared with my family. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/photo_news.php
In the Section of Viewer's Corner, the readers are ever-active! Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Recently, I participated in a wonderful poetry festival, organized by SGI Gulf in Knowledge Village-Dubai. The event: "Poetic Heart - Connecting Humanity" - where 20 poets of different nationalities reciting poetry in 11 different languages attracted a jam-packed auditorium in the first half - though it was a working day!
At this festival, the topic of emphasis chosen by the organizers was 'Mother', and I drew the attention of the audience on a sensitive social issue: Senior Abuse, Abuse of the Elderly - which prevails, worldwide. Through my poem: Me - The Mother, I expressed the emotions of mothers who are rejected, and how they deal with dejected emotions. To view my poem, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/mar2014/Me-The-Mother.php
In the Prose Section, I present my introductory address on 'Senior Abuse' which was read during the poetry festival, based on information of World Health Organization. To read it, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/mar2014/my-address-on-elderly-abuse-at-poetic-heart-connecting-humanity-event.php.
And yes! Talking of sensitive social issues - Aamir Khan - the brilliant bollywood actor and filmmaker's recent TV programme: Satyamev Jayeta (Truth Alone Prevails) - was terrific!
In the Section of Different Dialogues, meet the man - Surender Singh Kandhari, who superbly blends business and spirituality to enhance his life. To view the interview, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Mr_Surender_Singh_Kandhari.php.
In the Music Section, the famous 15th century blind poet, saint, and musician - Surdas's lyrics capture his philosophic thought. To view the same, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/surdas_2014.php.
In the Section of Book Review, we have the book: Blasphemy by Tehmina Durrani. Please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Blasphemy-by-Tehmina-Durrani.php.
The Section of Photo News possesses the elements of the present and past. Nostalgia! Take a look at some very special photographs from LitFest 2013. To view the link, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Nostalgia-LitFest-2013.php.
In Viewers' Corner, my readers continue to provide me support with their enthusiasm. To view it, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Last but not the least, Emirates Airline Festival of Literature 2014 in Dubai proved that it is moving from strength to strength. Three cheers to Isobel Abulhoul and her team!
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Recently, I participated in a wonderful poetry festival, organized by SGI Gulf in Knowledge Village-Dubai. The event: "Poetic Heart - Connecting Humanity" - where 20 poets of different nationalities reciting poetry in 11 different languages attracted a jam-packed auditorium in the first half - though it was a working day!
At this festival, the topic of emphasis chosen by the organizers was 'Mother', and I drew the attention of the audience on a sensitive social issue: Senior Abuse, Abuse of the Elderly - which prevails, worldwide. Through my poem: Me - The Mother, I expressed the emotions of mothers who are rejected, and how they deal with dejected emotions. To view my poem, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/mar2014/Me-The-Mother.php
In the Prose Section, I present my introductory address on 'Senior Abuse' which was read during the poetry festival, based on information of World Health Organization. To read it, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/mar2014/my-address-on-elderly-abuse-at-poetic-heart-connecting-humanity-event.php.
And yes! Talking of sensitive social issues - Aamir Khan - the brilliant bollywood actor and filmmaker's recent TV programme: Satyamev Jayeta (Truth Alone Prevails) - was terrific!
In the Section of Different Dialogues, meet the man - Surender Singh Kandhari, who superbly blends business and spirituality to enhance his life. To view the interview, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Mr_Surender_Singh_Kandhari.php.
In the Music Section, the famous 15th century blind poet, saint, and musician - Surdas's lyrics capture his philosophic thought. To view the same, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/surdas_2014.php.
In the Section of Book Review, we have the book: Blasphemy by Tehmina Durrani. Please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Blasphemy-by-Tehmina-Durrani.php.
The Section of Photo News possesses the elements of the present and past. Nostalgia! Take a look at some very special photographs from LitFest 2013. To view the link, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Nostalgia-LitFest-2013.php.
In Viewers' Corner, my readers continue to provide me support with their enthusiasm. To view it, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php.
Last but not the least, Emirates Airline Festival of Literature 2014 in Dubai proved that it is moving from strength to strength. Three cheers to Isobel Abulhoul and her team!
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
The world can see - UAE and its leaders are standing tall with the forward-looking steps they continue to follow! After all, they are following the wise traditions of their elders who bestowed upon them to continue the legacy of their sacred land.
Indeed, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum are receiving a series of instant non-stop-nods from people, saying, 'They are fantastic visionaries.'
I have personally had the honor of witnessing Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum's spirit of inspiring his subjects with his benign heart and progressive ideas.
As a humble commoner - I strive to learn like a child - from these leaders.
In the Prose Section, I present the commendable profiles of Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum and Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, respectively. They make fascinating accounts. To view the same, kindly click on the link below:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/feb2014/The_Golden_Speech.php
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/feb2014/Did_You_Know_6.php
In the Poetry Section - my emotions have different hues. To view my poems, please click on the link below:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In Different Dialogues, we have a veteran diplomat who represented India in different parts of the world. The journey of Mr. Kamal Nayan Bakshi is an interesting one... it enlightens the true meaning of life, itself. To view the interview, kindly click on the below link:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Mr_Kamal_Bakshi.php
The book of the month is: The Help by Kathryn Stockett. To view the review of the book, please click on the link below:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/The_Help_by_Kathryn_Stockett.php
In the Music Section, we have Bulleh Shah. To know about the Sufi poet, do click on the link below:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/On_Bulleh_Shah_feb14.php
Photo-News covers two energetic ladies - Bubbles Kandhari and Dr. Rafia Ghubash. Both are contributing to society in their individual ways. Kindly click on the link below, to view their photographs:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/photo_news.php
Viewers' Corner is evergreen! Please click on the link below, to read your comments:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php
Additionally and importantly, I must mention the illustrious - H.E. Shri T.P Seetharam, India's new Ambassador to UAE, and India's new Consul General, Mr. Anurag Bhushan. They have received a very warm welcome here, and we all wish them a very fine tenure.
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
The world can see - UAE and its leaders are standing tall with the forward-looking steps they continue to follow! After all, they are following the wise traditions of their elders who bestowed upon them to continue the legacy of their sacred land.
Indeed, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum are receiving a series of instant non-stop-nods from people, saying, 'They are fantastic visionaries.'
I have personally had the honor of witnessing Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum's spirit of inspiring his subjects with his benign heart and progressive ideas.
As a humble commoner - I strive to learn like a child - from these leaders.
In the Prose Section, I present the commendable profiles of Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum and Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, respectively. They make fascinating accounts. To view the same, kindly click on the link below:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/feb2014/The_Golden_Speech.php
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/feb2014/Did_You_Know_6.php
In the Poetry Section - my emotions have different hues. To view my poems, please click on the link below:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In Different Dialogues, we have a veteran diplomat who represented India in different parts of the world. The journey of Mr. Kamal Nayan Bakshi is an interesting one... it enlightens the true meaning of life, itself. To view the interview, kindly click on the below link:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Mr_Kamal_Bakshi.php
The book of the month is: The Help by Kathryn Stockett. To view the review of the book, please click on the link below:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/The_Help_by_Kathryn_Stockett.php
In the Music Section, we have Bulleh Shah. To know about the Sufi poet, do click on the link below:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/On_Bulleh_Shah_feb14.php
Photo-News covers two energetic ladies - Bubbles Kandhari and Dr. Rafia Ghubash. Both are contributing to society in their individual ways. Kindly click on the link below, to view their photographs:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/photo_news.php
Viewers' Corner is evergreen! Please click on the link below, to read your comments:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php
Additionally and importantly, I must mention the illustrious - H.E. Shri T.P Seetharam, India's new Ambassador to UAE, and India's new Consul General, Mr. Anurag Bhushan. They have received a very warm welcome here, and we all wish them a very fine tenure.
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I thought of the idea...
Let's have a tea party! To honor Dr Shihab Ghanem for his various awards - including the Tagore Peace Award he received in Kolkata (India) quite recently. He is the first and only Arab to receive it.
It turned out to be a great tea party! I wish, my husband Ved, had made it - he was late by a day for the event on 28th December 2013.
I was privileged to receive guests belonging to UAE, Egypt, Syria, Jordon, Morocco, Lebanon, Yemen, Japan, Romania, UK, Russia and, of course, India. That's the beauty of UAE - it offers opportunities to so many nationalities to live peacefully and thrive under its canopy! Long Live UAE!
In the words of one of the guests, Dr. Ram Buxani, he exclaimed, 'Geeta, it seems you have arranged United Nations!'.
The evening spontaneously bustled with poets, writers, singers; a scribe listened to the Moroccan poet and the Emirati poets' view point; some reached out to the Japanese speaker. The Jordanian historian was interested in what the Syrian poet was reciting. And thus, the tea party extended till about 10.30 pm.
From poetry to song rendering to conversations - people praised the value of human dignity, free spirit and love in UAE.
Thanks to His Excellency Mohammed S. Al Qutaish (Ambassador of The Republic of Yemen) for giving so much of his precious time - that evening.
Thanks to our eminent Moroccan poet, Dr. Hassan Elmrani for dedicating a poem to me! I am greatly humbled by the honor.
The section of Photos News carries photographs of the Tea Party. Kindly click on the below link:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/lets_have_a_tea_party.php
Additionally, there are photographs of the enjoyable musical evening hosted by Lubna and Sagheer. Fantastic talent in the family! To view the photographs, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/lets_have_a_musical_gathering.php
How can I miss out the Queen of Indian Songs! Ashaji... Asha Bhosle... the one and only Asha Bhosle! The singer-turned-actress in the film, MAI, was recently in Dubai and we were treated to a private show of her film. The storyline is intense and focuses on old age ravaged by disease of Alzheimer. The audience gave a high rating to MAI. Well done! Lajo Gupta for arranging the event.
Do check out my memory-trophy... a photograph with Ashaji. Kindly click on the below link, to view the same:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/screening_of_movie_MAI.php
In the Poetry Section, my poems are in mixed tones. Kindly click on the below link:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
India is taking steady steps against violence. A progressive law spells, it means business. Do check out the prose piece: A Meaningful Law, by clicking on the link below:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/jan2014/a_meaningful_law.php
In Different Dialogues, we have a theatre personality with fire in his belly! Jogiraj Sidhkar has created a name in UAE with his audience - he is utterly creative in bringing remarkable work on stage. Kindly click on the link below, to view his thoughts:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/extended-and-enlarged-version-of-mr-jogiraj_sikidar.php
Mirabai and her melodies are in the Music Section. Kindly click on the link below:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/melodies-of-mirabai-jan14.php
The book: The Vision by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum... is full of vision. Kindly click in the section of Book Review:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/my_vision_by_sheikh_mohammed_bin_rashid_al_maktoum.php
Let's prosper in peace and purpose during 2014.
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I thought of the idea...
Let's have a tea party! To honor Dr Shihab Ghanem for his various awards - including the Tagore Peace Award he received in Kolkata (India) quite recently. He is the first and only Arab to receive it.
It turned out to be a great tea party! I wish, my husband Ved, had made it - he was late by a day for the event on 28th December 2013.
I was privileged to receive guests belonging to UAE, Egypt, Syria, Jordon, Morocco, Lebanon, Yemen, Japan, Romania, UK, Russia and, of course, India. That's the beauty of UAE - it offers opportunities to so many nationalities to live peacefully and thrive under its canopy! Long Live UAE!
In the words of one of the guests, Dr. Ram Buxani, he exclaimed, 'Geeta, it seems you have arranged United Nations!'.
The evening spontaneously bustled with poets, writers, singers; a scribe listened to the Moroccan poet and the Emirati poets' view point; some reached out to the Japanese speaker. The Jordanian historian was interested in what the Syrian poet was reciting. And thus, the tea party extended till about 10.30 pm.
From poetry to song rendering to conversations - people praised the value of human dignity, free spirit and love in UAE.
Thanks to His Excellency Mohammed S. Al Qutaish (Ambassador of The Republic of Yemen) for giving so much of his precious time - that evening.
Thanks to our eminent Moroccan poet, Dr. Hassan Elmrani for dedicating a poem to me! I am greatly humbled by the honor.
The section of Photos News carries photographs of the Tea Party. Kindly click on the below link:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/lets_have_a_tea_party.php
Additionally, there are photographs of the enjoyable musical evening hosted by Lubna and Sagheer. Fantastic talent in the family! To view the photographs, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/lets_have_a_musical_gathering.php
How can I miss out the Queen of Indian Songs! Ashaji... Asha Bhosle... the one and only Asha Bhosle! The singer-turned-actress in the film, MAI, was recently in Dubai and we were treated to a private show of her film. The storyline is intense and focuses on old age ravaged by disease of Alzheimer. The audience gave a high rating to MAI. Well done! Lajo Gupta for arranging the event.
Do check out my memory-trophy... a photograph with Ashaji. Kindly click on the below link, to view the same:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/screening_of_movie_MAI.php
In the Poetry Section, my poems are in mixed tones. Kindly click on the below link:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
India is taking steady steps against violence. A progressive law spells, it means business. Do check out the prose piece: A Meaningful Law, by clicking on the link below:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/jan2014/a_meaningful_law.php
In Different Dialogues, we have a theatre personality with fire in his belly! Jogiraj Sidhkar has created a name in UAE with his audience - he is utterly creative in bringing remarkable work on stage. Kindly click on the link below, to view his thoughts:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/extended-and-enlarged-version-of-mr-jogiraj_sikidar.php
Mirabai and her melodies are in the Music Section. Kindly click on the link below:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/melodies-of-mirabai-jan14.php
The book: The Vision by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum... is full of vision. Kindly click in the section of Book Review:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/my_vision_by_sheikh_mohammed_bin_rashid_al_maktoum.php
Let's prosper in peace and purpose during 2014.
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I read a saying of Ratan Tata (Ex-Chairman, Tata Group): Life is like an ECG. Ups and downs are very important to keep us going; a straight line means we are not alive.
George Bernard Shaw goes a step further, stating: If there is nothing wrong in this world, there wouldn't be anything for us to do.
Hmm... I could live with it!
On a merrier theme, congratulations to Dubai for winning Expo 2020 bid. Another incredible achievement for UAE! The leadership here is absolutely amazing.
In Dubai, we have bid farewell to Sanjay Verma, Indian Council General to UAE, and now - H.E. M.K. Lokesh, our Indian Ambassador to UAE. Both of them are diplomats of great caliber and were extremely popular we wish them the best for their new postings. I could raise my conviction two bars higher to say that it's sheer myth to imagine that diplomats lead a cushy job of making speeches and partying. I salute to their intense and sensitive profile of duty. They have plenty of moments of challenges - how can their lives be undemanding?
The passing year of 2013, rendered to all of us: joy and victories; bewilderment and the strength to say, "Look at the Darkness giving birth to the Sun". Those words are borrowed by me from Kahlil Gibran.
And the great Nelson Mandela has passed away - he will shine, forever, in the world. The likes of Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi inspire mortals like me to be an optimist... to be a survivor... no matter how tough it gets.
Let's bring in the New Year of 2014 - with peace and prayers and not with bitter futility. The most beautiful thing about life is that it is a chamber of many facets... each of us has so much to thank for. Is that not so?
In this issue, to view more about life, do read The 45 Lessons by Regina Brett. They are hilarious and deep at the same time! Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/dec2013/the_45_lessons.php
To view the section of Poetry, kindly click on the below link:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Section of Different Dialogues, we have the extended and enlarged interview of Jyoti Uplenchwar-Vice Chairperson of Snehi. Please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/extended-and-enlarged-version-of-ms-jyoti_uplenchwar.php
In the Music Section, the famous Punjabi poet - Shivkumar Batalvi is on. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/lamenting_verses_from_shiv_kumar_batalvi.php
In Book Review section, we have the book: Don't They Know It's Friday? By Jeremy Williams. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/dont_they_know_its_friday_by_jeremy_williams.php
Photo-News is brimming with various events. Kindly click on: http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/photo_news.php
Check out Viewer's Corner, please. My readers are one of the best in giving me support and comfort. I love them. To see my readers' comments kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php
A happy prosperous New Year!
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I read a saying of Ratan Tata (Ex-Chairman, Tata Group): Life is like an ECG. Ups and downs are very important to keep us going; a straight line means we are not alive.
George Bernard Shaw goes a step further, stating: If there is nothing wrong in this world, there wouldn't be anything for us to do.
Hmm... I could live with it!
On a merrier theme, congratulations to Dubai for winning Expo 2020 bid. Another incredible achievement for UAE! The leadership here is absolutely amazing.
In Dubai, we have bid farewell to Sanjay Verma, Indian Council General to UAE, and now - H.E. M.K. Lokesh, our Indian Ambassador to UAE. Both of them are diplomats of great caliber and were extremely popular we wish them the best for their new postings. I could raise my conviction two bars higher to say that it's sheer myth to imagine that diplomats lead a cushy job of making speeches and partying. I salute to their intense and sensitive profile of duty. They have plenty of moments of challenges - how can their lives be undemanding?
The passing year of 2013, rendered to all of us: joy and victories; bewilderment and the strength to say, "Look at the Darkness giving birth to the Sun". Those words are borrowed by me from Kahlil Gibran.
And the great Nelson Mandela has passed away - he will shine, forever, in the world. The likes of Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi inspire mortals like me to be an optimist... to be a survivor... no matter how tough it gets.
Let's bring in the New Year of 2014 - with peace and prayers and not with bitter futility. The most beautiful thing about life is that it is a chamber of many facets... each of us has so much to thank for. Is that not so?
In this issue, to view more about life, do read The 45 Lessons by Regina Brett. They are hilarious and deep at the same time! Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/dec2013/the_45_lessons.php
To view the section of Poetry, kindly click on the below link:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Section of Different Dialogues, we have the extended and enlarged interview of Jyoti Uplenchwar-Vice Chairperson of Snehi. Please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/extended-and-enlarged-version-of-ms-jyoti_uplenchwar.php
In the Music Section, the famous Punjabi poet - Shivkumar Batalvi is on. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/lamenting_verses_from_shiv_kumar_batalvi.php
In Book Review section, we have the book: Don't They Know It's Friday? By Jeremy Williams. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/dont_they_know_its_friday_by_jeremy_williams.php
Photo-News is brimming with various events. Kindly click on: http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/photo_news.php
Check out Viewer's Corner, please. My readers are one of the best in giving me support and comfort. I love them. To see my readers' comments kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php
A happy prosperous New Year!
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
This is the longest letter I've ever blogged! I don't stop thinking of Malala Yousafzai - who narrowly escaped death because she wanted to go to school!
In the Swat District of Pakistan, on 9th October 2012, Malala was shot in the head and neck in an assassination attempt by Taliban gunmen, as the teenager was returning home in her school bus. She remained in a critical condition, till her state improved enough for her to be flown to Birmingham (UK) for intensive rehabilitation. Meanwhile, on 12th October 2012, the Taliban reasserted its earlier motive to kill Malala and her father.
Today, Malala is well, and in all her interviews, she says, she is not going to let the fear of Taliban cower her spirit. She states that fear cannot be her conqueror. Bravo!
Who is Malala to me? She is the fountainhead of stree shakti - feminine spirit of courage, fair reasoning and vigor. She is a stunner! Hear her talk... gaze at the vision of this youngster - born on 12th July 1997. Watch how focused she is not be bullied!
My point here is that we are all put to test in many ways - not by terrorists or gunmen, alone. This is, of course, not to underestimate what Malala went through!
My point is that when boundaries are crossed beyond reason... where senior citizens, parents, women and decent members of society are humiliated and threatened by their own kin (or such unwarranted pressures come from the outside world), you've got to eventually rise and say: I am Malala! You've got to finally stand up and face the situation and get justice… so that you can be heard, at last! And you will never be heard if you don't speak out and say: I am Malala!
I hope, I wish, I will become Malala! I must raise my own courage from Malala's courage... I must lift up my guts so that I can help others through my own example. There is never any value in wanting to live in false honor or fear; by doing so, we are depleting the value of the society we live in. Is that the whole idea of our contribution?
On another note: I went to the Sharjah International Book Fair on 8th November 2013. The evening of Friday was attracting a big crowd. One more time, heartiest congratulations to His Royal Highness Sultan Bin Mohamed Al-Qasimi. Another feather in the cap of UAE!
In the Section of Prose, I present my view on the relationship between parents and children. Children's Rights versus Children's Responsibilities. You are bound to find it interesting because it concerns each of us. Kindly click on the below link:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/nov2013/a_time_to_ponder.php
In the Section of Poetry, I'm in the continual mode to express my gratitude to the Almighty for lifting my spirits. Kindly click on the below link:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Section of Different Dialogues, we have Dr. Hassan Elmrani - the Moroccan born Poet and Professor, now living in Dubai. To view his interview, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/dr_hassan_elmrani.php
The astounding playback singer, Manna Dey, is remembered after his recent demise - in the Section of Music. Kindly click on the below link, to view the same:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/manna_dey_2013.php
In the Section of Book Review, we present the book: The Rules of Life by Richard Templar. To view the same, kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/the_rules_of_life.php
In the Section of Photo-News, we have our recent EKAL Event celebrating 25 years of EKAL in UAE. Plus, there are photographs of the LitFest Dinner and the Sharjah International Book Fair. To view, do click the below link:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/photo_news.php
Viewers' Corner is always humming with your comments. Kindly click on the below link:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php
I request you to stay tuned for my forthcoming book: Smash My Glass, a volume of 40 poems, being published by Brown Critique in collaboration with Sampark.
I would be nowhere without your support and encouragement. That's a fact!
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
This is the longest letter I've ever blogged! I don't stop thinking of Malala Yousafzai - who narrowly escaped death because she wanted to go to school!
In the Swat District of Pakistan, on 9th October 2012, Malala was shot in the head and neck in an assassination attempt by Taliban gunmen, as the teenager was returning home in her school bus. She remained in a critical condition, till her state improved enough for her to be flown to Birmingham (UK) for intensive rehabilitation. Meanwhile, on 12th October 2012, the Taliban reasserted its earlier motive to kill Malala and her father.
Today, Malala is well, and in all her interviews, she says, she is not going to let the fear of Taliban cower her spirit. She states that fear cannot be her conqueror. Bravo!
Who is Malala to me? She is the fountainhead of stree shakti - feminine spirit of courage, fair reasoning and vigor. She is a stunner! Hear her talk... gaze at the vision of this youngster - born on 12th July 1997. Watch how focused she is not be bullied!
My point here is that we are all put to test in many ways - not by terrorists or gunmen, alone. This is, of course, not to underestimate what Malala went through!
My point is that when boundaries are crossed beyond reason... where senior citizens, parents, women and decent members of society are humiliated and threatened by their own kin (or such unwarranted pressures come from the outside world), you've got to eventually rise and say: I am Malala! You've got to finally stand up and face the situation and get justice… so that you can be heard, at last! And you will never be heard if you don't speak out and say: I am Malala!
I hope, I wish, I will become Malala! I must raise my own courage from Malala's courage... I must lift up my guts so that I can help others through my own example. There is never any value in wanting to live in false honor or fear; by doing so, we are depleting the value of the society we live in. Is that the whole idea of our contribution?
On another note: I went to the Sharjah International Book Fair on 8th November 2013. The evening of Friday was attracting a big crowd. One more time, heartiest congratulations to His Royal Highness Sultan Bin Mohamed Al-Qasimi. Another feather in the cap of UAE!
In the Section of Prose, I present my view on the relationship between parents and children. Children's Rights versus Children's Responsibilities. You are bound to find it interesting because it concerns each of us. Kindly click on the below link:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/nov2013/a_time_to_ponder.php
In the Section of Poetry, I'm in the continual mode to express my gratitude to the Almighty for lifting my spirits. Kindly click on the below link:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Section of Different Dialogues, we have Dr. Hassan Elmrani - the Moroccan born Poet and Professor, now living in Dubai. To view his interview, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/dr_hassan_elmrani.php
The astounding playback singer, Manna Dey, is remembered after his recent demise - in the Section of Music. Kindly click on the below link, to view the same:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/manna_dey_2013.php
In the Section of Book Review, we present the book: The Rules of Life by Richard Templar. To view the same, kindly click on
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/the_rules_of_life.php
In the Section of Photo-News, we have our recent EKAL Event celebrating 25 years of EKAL in UAE. Plus, there are photographs of the LitFest Dinner and the Sharjah International Book Fair. To view, do click the below link:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/photo_news.php
Viewers' Corner is always humming with your comments. Kindly click on the below link:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php
I request you to stay tuned for my forthcoming book: Smash My Glass, a volume of 40 poems, being published by Brown Critique in collaboration with Sampark.
I would be nowhere without your support and encouragement. That's a fact!
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Where do you get your day-to-day much-needed break? Going to the gym... partying... shopping... trying out new eateries... reading a book... watching TV... playing chess or golf? Life is so riveting and our tastes are so different. For me, 'The Don't Miss It' is the daily brisk walk of 90 minutes, and I am slavishly addicted to jaap - chanting during my walks. I read your mind that I'm boring! The other much-needed break comes to me to remind myself that life is a passing dream and my unrelenting demands on it are sometimes so ridiculous! I relish conversing with my spouse on this topic - turning it into a pulsating debate. That's one way for both of us to earn our much-needed breaks! On the whole, I love my life and what I am making out of it. For instance, last month while in Mumbai, I went for a Vanyatra - journeying into the forestland of Maharashtra to visit the hamlet-dwellers and see how EKAL Vidyalaya Foundation is looking to the needs of the tribal children's education.
In the Prose Section, I have recorded my Vanyatra in detail. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/oct2013/my_vanyatra.php
In the Poetry Sectionm I offer my expression of many moods. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/oct2013/a_solid_pretext.php
In Different Dialogue, we have the Extended & Enlarged Version of Malini Chib's interview. Malini is a champion who has fought adversaries of sorts and triumphed. To view her interview, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/extended-and-enlarged-version-of-ms-malini-chib.php
The book of the month is Good Housekeeping Home Hints by Good Housekeeping Institute. Enjoy the tips! Do check it out by clicking on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/good_housekeeping_home_hints_by_good_housekeeping_institute.php
In the Music Section, we have Qawwali - A form of Sufi devotional music popular in South Asia. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/qawwali-oct2013.php
Viewers' Corner is active as ever. Please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php
Photo News has tons! To view the same kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/photo_news.php
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Where do you get your day-to-day much-needed break? Going to the gym... partying... shopping... trying out new eateries... reading a book... watching TV... playing chess or golf? Life is so riveting and our tastes are so different. For me, 'The Don't Miss It' is the daily brisk walk of 90 minutes, and I am slavishly addicted to jaap - chanting during my walks. I read your mind that I'm boring! The other much-needed break comes to me to remind myself that life is a passing dream and my unrelenting demands on it are sometimes so ridiculous! I relish conversing with my spouse on this topic - turning it into a pulsating debate. That's one way for both of us to earn our much-needed breaks! On the whole, I love my life and what I am making out of it. For instance, last month while in Mumbai, I went for a Vanyatra - journeying into the forestland of Maharashtra to visit the hamlet-dwellers and see how EKAL Vidyalaya Foundation is looking to the needs of the tribal children's education.
In the Prose Section, I have recorded my Vanyatra in detail. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/oct2013/my_vanyatra.php
In the Poetry Sectionm I offer my expression of many moods. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/oct2013/a_solid_pretext.php
In Different Dialogue, we have the Extended & Enlarged Version of Malini Chib's interview. Malini is a champion who has fought adversaries of sorts and triumphed. To view her interview, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/extended-and-enlarged-version-of-ms-malini-chib.php
The book of the month is Good Housekeeping Home Hints by Good Housekeeping Institute. Enjoy the tips! Do check it out by clicking on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/good_housekeeping_home_hints_by_good_housekeeping_institute.php
In the Music Section, we have Qawwali - A form of Sufi devotional music popular in South Asia. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/qawwali-oct2013.php
Viewers' Corner is active as ever. Please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php
Photo News has tons! To view the same kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/photo_news.php
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
With the rupee sliding, there is a labyrinth of criss-cross challenges for India. It is at such times – India is a place to avail for: her 5 star hotel-hospitality and superb medical care. On both these accounts, India offers an excellent choice to foreign visitors, because they are getting a deal with the rupee weakening. Along with this uplifting package – it is nice to see the solid branding of ‘namaskar’ – the age old greeting of folding hands to welcome guests! Sometimes, you simply just have to look for a silver lining among the clouds.
To learn the deeper significance of ‘namasakar’, please click on the
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/sep2013/the-significance-of-namaskar.php
in the Prose Section.
For the Poetry Section, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In Different Dialogue, we have an Extended & Enlarged Version of Mr. Harshad R. Mehta’s interview – who is the Chairman of Rosyblue. He is an outstanding Philanthropist. To view his interview, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/extended_and_enlarged_version_of_mr_harshad_r_mehtas_interview.php
In the Book Review Section, Boats On Land by Janice Pariat is a collection of short stories. Please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Boats-On-Land-by-Janice-Pariat.php
In the Music Section, we have the late Shamshad Begum – the outstanding singer from the fifties on line. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/on-shamshad-begum-sep2013.php
Viewers Corner is as active as ever!
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
With the rupee sliding, there is a labyrinth of criss-cross challenges for India. It is at such times – India is a place to avail for: her 5 star hotel-hospitality and superb medical care. On both these accounts, India offers an excellent choice to foreign visitors, because they are getting a deal with the rupee weakening. Along with this uplifting package – it is nice to see the solid branding of ‘namaskar’ – the age old greeting of folding hands to welcome guests! Sometimes, you simply just have to look for a silver lining among the clouds.
To learn the deeper significance of ‘namasakar’, please click on the
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/sep2013/the-significance-of-namaskar.php
in the Prose Section.
For the Poetry Section, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In Different Dialogue, we have an Extended & Enlarged Version of Mr. Harshad R. Mehta’s interview – who is the Chairman of Rosyblue. He is an outstanding Philanthropist. To view his interview, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/extended_and_enlarged_version_of_mr_harshad_r_mehtas_interview.php
In the Book Review Section, Boats On Land by Janice Pariat is a collection of short stories. Please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Boats-On-Land-by-Janice-Pariat.php
In the Music Section, we have the late Shamshad Begum – the outstanding singer from the fifties on line. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/on-shamshad-begum-sep2013.php
Viewers Corner is as active as ever!
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Thank you for your comments and views. You enrich my sense of purpose. Your responses are inspirational!
It is easy to understand that our families, or someone in the world is always awaiting for us to be dutiful and compassionate. We should be dutiful and compassionate - that is the correct thing to do. However, what becomes difficult to understand is to be committed to one-sided-relationships. Without the genuinity of mutual give-and-take, things can get frightfully lop-sided. Being wholly taken for granted is as undesirable as misery, itself. This is a common occurrence in our society, and it needs to be nipped at some point of time. The feeling of sharing with you is good!
I thank H. E. Mirza Al Sayegh for inviting me on 31st August 2013 for a programme at the Zayed University Convention Center, Dubai - where I gave a Presentation to the female students going to Dundee (Scotland) under the auspices of Al Maktoum Foundation. It was a great honour for me to be in the midst of dignitaries, students and their parents.
To view my Presentation (motivational talk) at Zayed University, kindly click in the Prose Section:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/aug2013/topic-of-presentation-sharing-my-life-experiences.php
Entering the mood of verse, the elements are mixed in the Poetry Section. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In Different Dialogue, we have an Extended & Enlarged Version of Ms. Maryam Behnam’s interview - who is an Author, Columnist, Lecturer and Traveller. To view the same, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/extended-and-enlarged-version-of-ms-maryam-behnam.php
In the Book Review Section, The Last Nizam by John Zubrzycki is an intriguing book on the royals of Hyderabad-India. Please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/The-Last-Nizam-by-John-Zubrzycki.php
In the Music Section, An Evening with Inter-Cultural Links is the essence of the month. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/an-evening-with-inter-cultural-links-aug2013.php
Photo-News is about sharing my life experiences at the Zayed University Convention Center with students going to Dundee (Scotland) under the auspices of Al Maktoum Foundation. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Geeta-Chhabras-Presentation-at-the-Zayed-University-Convention-Center-Dubai.php
Plus, file coverage of Sharjah Social Service Center – relevant to the latest strides it is making by the way of national news. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/geeta_chhabra_visit_to_goverment_sharjah.php
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Thank you for your comments and views. You enrich my sense of purpose. Your responses are inspirational!
It is easy to understand that our families, or someone in the world is always awaiting for us to be dutiful and compassionate. We should be dutiful and compassionate - that is the correct thing to do. However, what becomes difficult to understand is to be committed to one-sided-relationships. Without the genuinity of mutual give-and-take, things can get frightfully lop-sided. Being wholly taken for granted is as undesirable as misery, itself. This is a common occurrence in our society, and it needs to be nipped at some point of time. The feeling of sharing with you is good!
I thank H. E. Mirza Al Sayegh for inviting me on 31st August 2013 for a programme at the Zayed University Convention Center, Dubai - where I gave a Presentation to the female students going to Dundee (Scotland) under the auspices of Al Maktoum Foundation. It was a great honour for me to be in the midst of dignitaries, students and their parents.
To view my Presentation (motivational talk) at Zayed University, kindly click in the Prose Section:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/aug2013/topic-of-presentation-sharing-my-life-experiences.php
Entering the mood of verse, the elements are mixed in the Poetry Section. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In Different Dialogue, we have an Extended & Enlarged Version of Ms. Maryam Behnam’s interview - who is an Author, Columnist, Lecturer and Traveller. To view the same, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/extended-and-enlarged-version-of-ms-maryam-behnam.php
In the Book Review Section, The Last Nizam by John Zubrzycki is an intriguing book on the royals of Hyderabad-India. Please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/The-Last-Nizam-by-John-Zubrzycki.php
In the Music Section, An Evening with Inter-Cultural Links is the essence of the month. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/an-evening-with-inter-cultural-links-aug2013.php
Photo-News is about sharing my life experiences at the Zayed University Convention Center with students going to Dundee (Scotland) under the auspices of Al Maktoum Foundation. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Geeta-Chhabras-Presentation-at-the-Zayed-University-Convention-Center-Dubai.php
Plus, file coverage of Sharjah Social Service Center – relevant to the latest strides it is making by the way of national news. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/geeta_chhabra_visit_to_goverment_sharjah.php
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
This trip the longest one in Mumbai - upheld for me, the constant marvel of the monsoons. And the desire to write has been like honest hunger. Plus, I enjoyed every minute of the Hindi film, Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. Hats off to the makers of the film; music, direction, casting was outstanding in every way. Farhan Akhtar is more than a star. Milkha Singh is the incredible son of India.
Good news! The critically acclaimed: Brown Critique (nurtured, managed by Gayatri Majumdar) has further accepted my poems. The latest development must bring nostalgia because Nissim Ezekiel (my mentor) contributed to The Brown Critique. Gayatri in her own right is someone whose articles, poems, short stories have been published in numerous newspapers and magazines in India and abroad. The HarperCollins book-English Poetry edited by Sudeep Sen includes her poems.
In this issue, Poetry Section relates to my mood with bounty of the rains and God's glory. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Prose Section, even the tiniest para of sage - Sri Sri Paramahansa Yogananda can be the light! Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/july2013/on-paramahansa-yogananda.php
The Section of Different Dialogue is going from stride to stride. Meet Dr. Sheilu Srinivasan of Dignity Foundation (India). Please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/dr-sheilu-srinivasan-founder-of-dignity-foundation-july2013.php
H. E. Mirza Al Sayegh's interview (Different Dialogues - April Issue 2013) brought forth many rousing comments on the long lasting ties between UAE and India, and we will continue to publish them in our forthcoming issues on: Viewers' Corner. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php
In the Book Review Section, Sri Sri Paramahansa Yogananda's book: Where There Is Light is posted. Please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/where-there-is-light-by-sri-sri-paramahansa-yogananda.php
The great Pakistani poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz is in the Music Section. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/a-ghazal-lyrics- by-faiz-ahmed-faiz-july2013.php
Photo-News is about a zealous doctor... a super specialist (Dr. Chetan Bhatt) from Mumbai who has been to Uttarakhand (Northern India) to attend to the sick and injured caught in the Himalayan Tsunami. Photo-News also carries some images of Dignity Foundation. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/photographs-from-the-journey-of-dignity-foundation.php
Ramadan Kareem!
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
This trip the longest one in Mumbai - upheld for me, the constant marvel of the monsoons. And the desire to write has been like honest hunger. Plus, I enjoyed every minute of the Hindi film, Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. Hats off to the makers of the film; music, direction, casting was outstanding in every way. Farhan Akhtar is more than a star. Milkha Singh is the incredible son of India.
Good news! The critically acclaimed: Brown Critique (nurtured, managed by Gayatri Majumdar) has further accepted my poems. The latest development must bring nostalgia because Nissim Ezekiel (my mentor) contributed to The Brown Critique. Gayatri in her own right is someone whose articles, poems, short stories have been published in numerous newspapers and magazines in India and abroad. The HarperCollins book-English Poetry edited by Sudeep Sen includes her poems.
In this issue, Poetry Section relates to my mood with bounty of the rains and God's glory. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Prose Section, even the tiniest para of sage - Sri Sri Paramahansa Yogananda can be the light! Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/july2013/on-paramahansa-yogananda.php
The Section of Different Dialogue is going from stride to stride. Meet Dr. Sheilu Srinivasan of Dignity Foundation (India). Please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/dr-sheilu-srinivasan-founder-of-dignity-foundation-july2013.php
H. E. Mirza Al Sayegh's interview (Different Dialogues - April Issue 2013) brought forth many rousing comments on the long lasting ties between UAE and India, and we will continue to publish them in our forthcoming issues on: Viewers' Corner. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php
In the Book Review Section, Sri Sri Paramahansa Yogananda's book: Where There Is Light is posted. Please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/where-there-is-light-by-sri-sri-paramahansa-yogananda.php
The great Pakistani poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz is in the Music Section. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/a-ghazal-lyrics- by-faiz-ahmed-faiz-july2013.php
Photo-News is about a zealous doctor... a super specialist (Dr. Chetan Bhatt) from Mumbai who has been to Uttarakhand (Northern India) to attend to the sick and injured caught in the Himalayan Tsunami. Photo-News also carries some images of Dignity Foundation. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/photographs-from-the-journey-of-dignity-foundation.php
Ramadan Kareem!
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Marine Drive is always thronging with people, though monsoons have arrived in Mumbai! Over coffees and herbal tea, my husband and me are catching up with the heavy showers and fond nostalgia… he says, this is the most purposeful break we're sharing together… probably, he is absolutely right.
This long trip to Mumbai created ripples of many dimensions. I would never have thought I had so much strength within me! Every moment of living teaches me something... for my onward journey. More often than not, I am nearly fearless, supporting the realms of truth. Living, itself, is momentous... Light is within us to celebrate righteousness.
I must mention - there is no denying that at any bleakest point of my life, I've delved in writing most vigorously. Composing poems is like a healing and cleansing process; it's a big draw for me to be with my pen... though the difficult part is that the poet cannot keep any secrets hidden from the outside world!
In the Poetry Section, No Journey Ends is relevant for all of us. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/june2013/no-journey-ends.php
In the Prose Section - I post one of my most favourite thoughts in: Coming From My Heart. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/june2013/coming-from-my-heart.php.
Also, click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/june2013/bravo-emirates-airline-festival-of-literature.php to know about Emirates Airline Festival of Literature. Three Cheers to Isobel Abulhoul, the LitFest Director for winning a prestigious award. Equally, credit goes to all those people who made LitFest what it is today.
In Different Dialogue, we have Extended & Enlarged Version of Mr. Bharat Kumar Shah's interview. To view his interview, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/extended-and-enlarged-version-of-mr-bharat-kumar-shah.php
The book of the month is The Best Short Stories of O. Henry. Do check it out by clicking on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/the-best-short-stories-of-o-henry.php
In the Music Section: The Song - Karman Ki Gatti Nyari Udho is thought provoking. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/the-song-june2013.php
Photo-News pays its tribute to Emirates Airline Festival of Literature for winning the Best Festival in the Middle East Award. I have posted some memories of LitFest 2013. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/the-emirates-airline-festival-of-literature-march2013.php
Viewers' Corner continues to bustle. Please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Marine Drive is always thronging with people, though monsoons have arrived in Mumbai! Over coffees and herbal tea, my husband and me are catching up with the heavy showers and fond nostalgia… he says, this is the most purposeful break we're sharing together… probably, he is absolutely right.
This long trip to Mumbai created ripples of many dimensions. I would never have thought I had so much strength within me! Every moment of living teaches me something... for my onward journey. More often than not, I am nearly fearless, supporting the realms of truth. Living, itself, is momentous... Light is within us to celebrate righteousness.
I must mention - there is no denying that at any bleakest point of my life, I've delved in writing most vigorously. Composing poems is like a healing and cleansing process; it's a big draw for me to be with my pen... though the difficult part is that the poet cannot keep any secrets hidden from the outside world!
In the Poetry Section, No Journey Ends is relevant for all of us. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/june2013/no-journey-ends.php
In the Prose Section - I post one of my most favourite thoughts in: Coming From My Heart. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/june2013/coming-from-my-heart.php.
Also, click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/june2013/bravo-emirates-airline-festival-of-literature.php to know about Emirates Airline Festival of Literature. Three Cheers to Isobel Abulhoul, the LitFest Director for winning a prestigious award. Equally, credit goes to all those people who made LitFest what it is today.
In Different Dialogue, we have Extended & Enlarged Version of Mr. Bharat Kumar Shah's interview. To view his interview, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/extended-and-enlarged-version-of-mr-bharat-kumar-shah.php
The book of the month is The Best Short Stories of O. Henry. Do check it out by clicking on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/the-best-short-stories-of-o-henry.php
In the Music Section: The Song - Karman Ki Gatti Nyari Udho is thought provoking. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/the-song-june2013.php
Photo-News pays its tribute to Emirates Airline Festival of Literature for winning the Best Festival in the Middle East Award. I have posted some memories of LitFest 2013. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/the-emirates-airline-festival-of-literature-march2013.php
Viewers' Corner continues to bustle. Please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I thank you for your congratulatory messages. They were like sunbeams!
I am in Mumbai, my city of memories. This trip, the pace has been overly hectic and demanding; certainly, there has been no time to bask or fret. Action! That was the name of the game. Life is a journey that teaches many lessons. All phases of life cannot deliver dreams. I know one thing for sure... the more one learns, the less one knows, and that's a good realization. Additionally, to be 'aware' that we are mere mortals in the hands of a greater force... that itself is a sign of growing... to catch our dreams.
The trip to good old Strand Book Shop was a part of nostalgia. I came home with a bag full of Tagore, Keats and others. Movies in halls have been well-worth it. Loved - Bombay Talkies! And John Abraham was very convincing in: Shootout At Wadala. Hats off to the director, Sanjay Gupta.
Again and again, I must say the doctors are wizards in Mumbai; and more than anything, my medical ratings are good. May God feed us all with abundant health!
So, what do we have in this issue? In the Poetry Section, my emotions come in different moods. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Prose Section, Spring Belt remains with me almost all the time. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/may2013/spring-belt.php
In Different Dialogue, we have Extended & Enlarged version of Mr. Maghanmal Pancholia's interview. He is a man of many dimensions. To view his interview, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/extended-and-enlarged-version-of-mr-maghanmal-pancholias-interview.php
The book of the month is Willie's Chocolate Bible by Willie Harcourt-Cooze. Do check it out by clicking on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/willies-chocolate-bible-by-willie-harcourt-cooze.php
In the Music Section, Bulleh Shah is immortal. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/bulleh-shahs-immortal-sufi-verses-may2013.php
Viewers' Corner continues to bustle. Please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I thank you for your congratulatory messages. They were like sunbeams!
I am in Mumbai, my city of memories. This trip, the pace has been overly hectic and demanding; certainly, there has been no time to bask or fret. Action! That was the name of the game. Life is a journey that teaches many lessons. All phases of life cannot deliver dreams. I know one thing for sure... the more one learns, the less one knows, and that's a good realization. Additionally, to be 'aware' that we are mere mortals in the hands of a greater force... that itself is a sign of growing... to catch our dreams.
The trip to good old Strand Book Shop was a part of nostalgia. I came home with a bag full of Tagore, Keats and others. Movies in halls have been well-worth it. Loved - Bombay Talkies! And John Abraham was very convincing in: Shootout At Wadala. Hats off to the director, Sanjay Gupta.
Again and again, I must say the doctors are wizards in Mumbai; and more than anything, my medical ratings are good. May God feed us all with abundant health!
So, what do we have in this issue? In the Poetry Section, my emotions come in different moods. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Prose Section, Spring Belt remains with me almost all the time. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/may2013/spring-belt.php
In Different Dialogue, we have Extended & Enlarged version of Mr. Maghanmal Pancholia's interview. He is a man of many dimensions. To view his interview, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/extended-and-enlarged-version-of-mr-maghanmal-pancholias-interview.php
The book of the month is Willie's Chocolate Bible by Willie Harcourt-Cooze. Do check it out by clicking on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/willies-chocolate-bible-by-willie-harcourt-cooze.php
In the Music Section, Bulleh Shah is immortal. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/bulleh-shahs-immortal-sufi-verses-may2013.php
Viewers' Corner continues to bustle. Please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
This month, I was very fortunate to present my book: An Indian Ode To The Emirates to His Royal Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and the Minister of Finance and Industry of the UAE. The evening at the Zabeel Palace-Dubai was an extraordinary experience.
In my childhood, I learnt from Indian legends that royal courts - shahi darbars were places of special reverence: when kings revealed wisdom and benevolence in their day-to-day policies. For these very reasons, royal courts became positive hubs of large dimensions - for the noble rulers and their subjects. This is exactly what I felt on the evening of 8th April 2013 at the Zabeel Palace, Dubai.
On 26th March 2013, the launch of my second book: No Journey Ends, had the making of a dream for me! Beautiful friends with diverse interests; wonderful speeches - thanks to H. E. Mirza Al Sayegh, John Deykin and great support from my family and Motivate Publishing. Thank you, Vibha for flying down to Dubai especially for my book launch!
EKAL Cricket Event at Dubai Sports City on Friday, 12th April 2013 was a fun-day-family-day of great purpose. Three cheers to everyone who participated.
In the Poetry Section, do read two of my favourite poems: No Journey Ends, My Fabled Friends from my new book. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/april2013/no-journey-ends.php,
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/april2013/my-fabled-friends.php
In the Prose Section, I chose the prolific features of two royal personalities - Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/april2013/did-you-know-5.php,
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/april2013/did-you-know-7.php
This month we have H. E. Mirza Al Sayegh's (Director of the office of H. H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum) interview in the section of Different Dialogues. The interview bearing witness to history has interesting facts. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/h-e-mirza-al-sayegh.php
In the Book Review section, the book: In the Rose Garden of the Martyrs by Christopher de Bellaigue is presented. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/in-the-rose-garden-of-the-martyrs-by-christopher-de-bellaigue.php
In the Music Section, the philosopher/saint/poet - Kabir is on. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/a_concert_with_kabir_april2013.php
Photo-News is full of events!
More LitFest photos! Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/the-emirates-airline-festival-of-literature-2013-inter-continental-hotel.php
My Poetry Workshop at Rashid School, Dubai. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/poetry-workshop-at-rashid-school-for-boys-dubai.php
My Book Launch at Motivate Publishing. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/book-launch-of-no-journey-ends-by-geeta-chhabra.php
The enchanting evening at Zabeel Palace! Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/celebrating-the-everlasting-ties-between-india-and-uae.php
EKAL’s Connections. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/ekal-cricket-cup-2013-held-at-dubai-sports-city.php
An international gathering of peace-lovers (SGI) celebrating a farewell dinner at Al Fanar Restaurant, Dubai, UAE. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/under-the-auspices-of-sgi.php
Geeta Chhabra
P.S.
My third book: From The Abyss has been approved by my publishers. To that I say to Motivate Publishing and to you all: No Journey Ends...!
My dear Readers,
This month, I was very fortunate to present my book: An Indian Ode To The Emirates to His Royal Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and the Minister of Finance and Industry of the UAE. The evening at the Zabeel Palace-Dubai was an extraordinary experience.
In my childhood, I learnt from Indian legends that royal courts - shahi darbars were places of special reverence: when kings revealed wisdom and benevolence in their day-to-day policies. For these very reasons, royal courts became positive hubs of large dimensions - for the noble rulers and their subjects. This is exactly what I felt on the evening of 8th April 2013 at the Zabeel Palace, Dubai.
On 26th March 2013, the launch of my second book: No Journey Ends, had the making of a dream for me! Beautiful friends with diverse interests; wonderful speeches - thanks to H. E. Mirza Al Sayegh, John Deykin and great support from my family and Motivate Publishing. Thank you, Vibha for flying down to Dubai especially for my book launch!
EKAL Cricket Event at Dubai Sports City on Friday, 12th April 2013 was a fun-day-family-day of great purpose. Three cheers to everyone who participated.
In the Poetry Section, do read two of my favourite poems: No Journey Ends, My Fabled Friends from my new book. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/april2013/no-journey-ends.php,
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/april2013/my-fabled-friends.php
In the Prose Section, I chose the prolific features of two royal personalities - Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/april2013/did-you-know-5.php,
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/april2013/did-you-know-7.php
This month we have H. E. Mirza Al Sayegh's (Director of the office of H. H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum) interview in the section of Different Dialogues. The interview bearing witness to history has interesting facts. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/h-e-mirza-al-sayegh.php
In the Book Review section, the book: In the Rose Garden of the Martyrs by Christopher de Bellaigue is presented. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/in-the-rose-garden-of-the-martyrs-by-christopher-de-bellaigue.php
In the Music Section, the philosopher/saint/poet - Kabir is on. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/a_concert_with_kabir_april2013.php
Photo-News is full of events!
More LitFest photos! Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/the-emirates-airline-festival-of-literature-2013-inter-continental-hotel.php
My Poetry Workshop at Rashid School, Dubai. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/poetry-workshop-at-rashid-school-for-boys-dubai.php
My Book Launch at Motivate Publishing. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/book-launch-of-no-journey-ends-by-geeta-chhabra.php
The enchanting evening at Zabeel Palace! Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/celebrating-the-everlasting-ties-between-india-and-uae.php
EKAL’s Connections. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/ekal-cricket-cup-2013-held-at-dubai-sports-city.php
An international gathering of peace-lovers (SGI) celebrating a farewell dinner at Al Fanar Restaurant, Dubai, UAE. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/under-the-auspices-of-sgi.php
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
P.S.
My third book: From The Abyss has been approved by my publishers. To that I say to Motivate Publishing and to you all: No Journey Ends...!
My dear Readers,
I wasn’t going to lose time in telling you about Emirates Airline Festival of Literature (March 5th – March 9th 2013) in Dubai-U.A.E. The event has been the hero of heroes! LitFest is a pallet of so many colours going a long way to carve memory-lanes for its participants.
A lion-hearted personality – who is a devoted bard himself, made a dream come true for many of us – when he doubly enhanced the spirit of LitFest by his royal presence: at the Desert-Stanzas-Event on the evening of Wednesday, 6th March 2013. Yes, you’ve guessed it without an effort! His Royal Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum – UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai became the special star among the stars of that starry night. His regal presence was beyond amazement for all of us and I couldn’t believe my eyes that I sat only a few feet away from the worthy sovereign! Back home in Amritsar, India, my grandfather used to say: sacha raja au raja jeda praja naal bethey! A king is a true king who sits with his subjects. Thank you, and long live Sheikh Mohammed.
Here I must connect with Isobel Abulhoul and repeat appreciative words for her. Isobel, you are terrific! Your entire team and the band of volunteers did an outstanding job. As for the great authors and poets at LitFest – where should I begin and end? The proof showed in the pudding, itself! And I loved being an active participant as a poet-author for my books: An Indian Ode To The Emirates, No Journey Ends. I also feel privileged that my first book: An Indian Ode To The Emirates was selected for the UAE Inspired Session – where I was a panelist.
For my readers, the step to happy memories of LitFest is to click in Photo-News section:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/photo_news.php. In coming issues, I will be sharing more photos of LitFest. So, stay tuned!
Expanding on an entire different note, I will say – we know that heartbreaks, unforeseen challenges have visited even the most fortunate, self-contented. This is the way of life. I tell myself: the whole idea of living a meaningful life is to cut out the neurotic clutter which will visit me, too. Without a touch of sourness, I am prepared to realize that extravagant complaining is never the remedy. Worse still is: inaction. Losing too many years in giving in… or proving that one’s sorrowing has been justified with prophesy of doom… all this is not enough to rectify a declining situation. Inaction will only hasten external and internal collapse – concerning any aspect of one’s life.
I have taught myself to never ever prolong my difficulties with the so-called-Arjuna-syndrome… which means: I must not misinterpret my strength or withdraw my rightful deeds against any sort of injustice. The most miserable folly is to fall as a victim and spell defeat by giving up one’s rights and one’s essential duties. That’s my most recent lesson and I’ve actually sighted victory! The same to you, I wish.
In the Prose Section, read what novelist Paulo Coelho went through! He’s a hero, again. Kindly click on: http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/mar2013/i-take-a-bow-to-paulo-coelho.php
In the Poetry Section, kindly click to my poems of many moods.
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, we are presenting extended & enlarged version of Ms. Shelley Young’s interview. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/extended-and-enlarged-version-of-ms-shelley-youngs-interview-art-historian-in-dubai.php
In the Book Review section, the book: The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga is presented. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/the-white-tiger-by-aravind-adiga.php
In the Music Section, I share with you the laments of the Punjabi Poet, Shiv Kumar Batalvi. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/lamenting-verses-from-shiv-kumar-batalvi-at-a-performance.php
Last but not the least, my book of poems with introductory prose pieces have shaped: No Journey Ends. The launch of the book is taking place on Tuesday, 26th March 2013 (by invitation). The exciting part is to meet up with likeminded people and talk of my other two books – due for release this year, itself – I hope!
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I wasn’t going to lose time in telling you about Emirates Airline Festival of Literature (March 5th – March 9th 2013) in Dubai-U.A.E. The event has been the hero of heroes! LitFest is a pallet of so many colours going a long way to carve memory-lanes for its participants.
A lion-hearted personality – who is a devoted bard himself, made a dream come true for many of us – when he doubly enhanced the spirit of LitFest by his royal presence: at the Desert-Stanzas-Event on the evening of Wednesday, 6th March 2013. Yes, you’ve guessed it without an effort! His Royal Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum – UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai became the special star among the stars of that starry night. His regal presence was beyond amazement for all of us and I couldn’t believe my eyes that I sat only a few feet away from the worthy sovereign! Back home in Amritsar, India, my grandfather used to say: sacha raja au raja jeda praja naal bethey! A king is a true king who sits with his subjects. Thank you, and long live Sheikh Mohammed.
Here I must connect with Isobel Abulhoul and repeat appreciative words for her. Isobel, you are terrific! Your entire team and the band of volunteers did an outstanding job. As for the great authors and poets at LitFest – where should I begin and end? The proof showed in the pudding, itself! And I loved being an active participant as a poet-author for my books: An Indian Ode To The Emirates, No Journey Ends. I also feel privileged that my first book: An Indian Ode To The Emirates was selected for the UAE Inspired Session – where I was a panelist.
For my readers, the step to happy memories of LitFest is to click in Photo-News section:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/photo_news.php. In coming issues, I will be sharing more photos of LitFest. So, stay tuned!
Expanding on an entire different note, I will say – we know that heartbreaks, unforeseen challenges have visited even the most fortunate, self-contented. This is the way of life. I tell myself: the whole idea of living a meaningful life is to cut out the neurotic clutter which will visit me, too. Without a touch of sourness, I am prepared to realize that extravagant complaining is never the remedy. Worse still is: inaction. Losing too many years in giving in… or proving that one’s sorrowing has been justified with prophesy of doom… all this is not enough to rectify a declining situation. Inaction will only hasten external and internal collapse – concerning any aspect of one’s life.
I have taught myself to never ever prolong my difficulties with the so-called-Arjuna-syndrome… which means: I must not misinterpret my strength or withdraw my rightful deeds against any sort of injustice. The most miserable folly is to fall as a victim and spell defeat by giving up one’s rights and one’s essential duties. That’s my most recent lesson and I’ve actually sighted victory! The same to you, I wish.
In the Prose Section, read what novelist Paulo Coelho went through! He’s a hero, again. Kindly click on: http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/mar2013/i-take-a-bow-to-paulo-coelho.php
In the Poetry Section, kindly click to my poems of many moods.
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, we are presenting extended & enlarged version of Ms. Shelley Young’s interview. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/extended-and-enlarged-version-of-ms-shelley-youngs-interview-art-historian-in-dubai.php
In the Book Review section, the book: The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga is presented. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/the-white-tiger-by-aravind-adiga.php
In the Music Section, I share with you the laments of the Punjabi Poet, Shiv Kumar Batalvi. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/lamenting-verses-from-shiv-kumar-batalvi-at-a-performance.php
Last but not the least, my book of poems with introductory prose pieces have shaped: No Journey Ends. The launch of the book is taking place on Tuesday, 26th March 2013 (by invitation). The exciting part is to meet up with likeminded people and talk of my other two books – due for release this year, itself – I hope!
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
For me, Spring is already here! The reason for my exuberance is that at whatever point I leave life in a state of despondency, life presses me to bounce back! This is a good sign. Perhaps, there is a stage when the soul assumes greatest part of its vibrancy by learning to stick to the truth and following the correctness of honourable beliefs; I will continue my journey on the same path.
The other reason for my Spring-like mood is: The Emirates Airline Literary Festival, celebrating its 5th anniversary in Dubai, between the 5th – 9th March 2013. I am lucky to be participating in quite a few events. The opportunity to speak how my UAE inspired book: An Indian Ode To The Emirates was born, plus, the two Poetry Workshops I am conducting in schools will give me fulfillment as a poet and educator.
Expanding on the LitFest, I constantly see the position of the rulers of Dubai – playing an outstanding role in promoting the voice of writers, poets, intellectuals. The peace-filled-story of UAE carries practical value for all nations. Bravo!
Hats off to Isobel Abulhoul (Festival Director) and her team for continually striving to make LitFest – such a purposeful event. A great thing is the manner of getting into every detail. This is what the lady does. This event has energy! For me, Spring is already here…
During my most recent visit to Mumbai, I attended: The Laadli National Media Awards for Gender Sensitivity 2011-12 at Tata Theatre. Bobby Sista, (Executive Trustee, Population First) and me are long time neighbours. He is doing excellent work in this field; the theme of the event also matched with my forthcoming book. The performance by Shubha Mudgal engaged the audience with gender issues – her song touched the heart. My book – the third, will highlight the brutalities and exploitation of the Girl Child and women – in India and generally.
Heartiest congratulations to my friend (translator of my English poems into the Arabic language for my first book: An Indian Ode To The Emirates) – Dr. Shihab Ghanem for receiving the Tagore Peace Award.
Matching the flavour of the LitFest, in the section of Prose is: The Golden Speech by Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/feb2013/the-golden-speech.php
In the section of Poetry, in major parts, I am as light as a feather! Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, we are presenting extended & enlarged version of Dr. Qais Ghanem’s interview. He has an interesting profile as a poet, novelist and radio host. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/extended-and-enlarged-version-of-dr-qais-ghanems-interview.php
In the Book Review section, the book: Effective Business in the Gulf by Nicolai Tillisch is presented. The book is effective, especially for those who are looking for different aspects of business in the GCC. The format is precise, the style of the author is racy and uncomplicated. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/effective-business-in-the-gulf-by-nicolai-tillisch.php
In the section of Music, the meaning of Gayatri Mantra, the non-sectarian maha mantra, originating from Hinduism is explained. To view the same, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/on-gayatri-mantra-feb13.php
In the section of Photo-News, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/photo_news.php for the gist of SGI Gulf celebrating “The Poetic Heart: Connecting Humanity”.
Enjoy!
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
For me, Spring is already here! The reason for my exuberance is that at whatever point I leave life in a state of despondency, life presses me to bounce back! This is a good sign. Perhaps, there is a stage when the soul assumes greatest part of its vibrancy by learning to stick to the truth and following the correctness of honourable beliefs; I will continue my journey on the same path.
The other reason for my Spring-like mood is: The Emirates Airline Literary Festival, celebrating its 5th anniversary in Dubai, between the 5th – 9th March 2013. I am lucky to be participating in quite a few events. The opportunity to speak how my UAE inspired book: An Indian Ode To The Emirates was born, plus, the two Poetry Workshops I am conducting in schools will give me fulfillment as a poet and educator.
Expanding on the LitFest, I constantly see the position of the rulers of Dubai – playing an outstanding role in promoting the voice of writers, poets, intellectuals. The peace-filled-story of UAE carries practical value for all nations. Bravo!
Hats off to Isobel Abulhoul (Festival Director) and her team for continually striving to make LitFest – such a purposeful event. A great thing is the manner of getting into every detail. This is what the lady does. This event has energy! For me, Spring is already here…
During my most recent visit to Mumbai, I attended: The Laadli National Media Awards for Gender Sensitivity 2011-12 at Tata Theatre. Bobby Sista, (Executive Trustee, Population First) and me are long time neighbours. He is doing excellent work in this field; the theme of the event also matched with my forthcoming book. The performance by Shubha Mudgal engaged the audience with gender issues – her song touched the heart. My book – the third, will highlight the brutalities and exploitation of the Girl Child and women – in India and generally.
Heartiest congratulations to my friend (translator of my English poems into the Arabic language for my first book: An Indian Ode To The Emirates) – Dr. Shihab Ghanem for receiving the Tagore Peace Award.
Matching the flavour of the LitFest, in the section of Prose is: The Golden Speech by Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/feb2013/the-golden-speech.php
In the section of Poetry, in major parts, I am as light as a feather! Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, we are presenting extended & enlarged version of Dr. Qais Ghanem’s interview. He has an interesting profile as a poet, novelist and radio host. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/extended-and-enlarged-version-of-dr-qais-ghanems-interview.php
In the Book Review section, the book: Effective Business in the Gulf by Nicolai Tillisch is presented. The book is effective, especially for those who are looking for different aspects of business in the GCC. The format is precise, the style of the author is racy and uncomplicated. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/effective-business-in-the-gulf-by-nicolai-tillisch.php
In the section of Music, the meaning of Gayatri Mantra, the non-sectarian maha mantra, originating from Hinduism is explained. To view the same, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/on-gayatri-mantra-feb13.php
In the section of Photo-News, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/photo_news.php for the gist of SGI Gulf celebrating “The Poetic Heart: Connecting Humanity”.
Enjoy!
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
2013 is brand new! The year to revive and carry on with old and new resolutions. For sure, the New Year has already stirred the thinker in me…
The week in Bali during Xmas time with my family was a time of healing and restful gaiety. On both counts (healing and gaiety), Bali delivered a lot; with increasing willingness, I accepted the passing away of my ailing brother-in-law, Hari Chhabra. On that sad note of acceptance, I promised myself more time with social-minded activities – including writing, travelling, remaining close to the causes that are dear to me.
During this period, I received the copy of my second book: No Journey Ends from my publishers. It is up to you to judge my work! Presently, I am focusing on the third book dealing with Girl Child and certain sections of women facing grim realities.
In this issue, the mood of my poems swings like a pendulum. The poems are sourced from my book – An Indian Ode To The Emirates. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Prose Section, the prose pieces are diverse in character. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, we have the water-colourist – Patricia Al Fakhri sharing her thoughts with us. To learn more about the artist, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/extended-and-enlarged-version-of-ms-patricia-al-fakhri-water-colourist-based-in-dubai-and-england.php
In the Book-Review section, The Zahir, by Paulo Coelho is posted. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/the-zahir-by-paulo-coelho.php
For music lovers, there is the long-living-poetess Mirabai. Please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/melodies-of-mirabai-jan13.php
Viewers’ Corner is active as ever with our readers’ comments. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php
Photo-News captures some of the essence of Bali where I went with my lovely family.
Once again, I wish everyone a great 2013.
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
2013 is brand new! The year to revive and carry on with old and new resolutions. For sure, the New Year has already stirred the thinker in me…
The week in Bali during Xmas time with my family was a time of healing and restful gaiety. On both counts (healing and gaiety), Bali delivered a lot; with increasing willingness, I accepted the passing away of my ailing brother-in-law, Hari Chhabra. On that sad note of acceptance, I promised myself more time with social-minded activities – including writing, travelling, remaining close to the causes that are dear to me.
During this period, I received the copy of my second book: No Journey Ends from my publishers. It is up to you to judge my work! Presently, I am focusing on the third book dealing with Girl Child and certain sections of women facing grim realities.
In this issue, the mood of my poems swings like a pendulum. The poems are sourced from my book – An Indian Ode To The Emirates. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
In the Prose Section, the prose pieces are diverse in character. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, we have the water-colourist – Patricia Al Fakhri sharing her thoughts with us. To learn more about the artist, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/extended-and-enlarged-version-of-ms-patricia-al-fakhri-water-colourist-based-in-dubai-and-england.php
In the Book-Review section, The Zahir, by Paulo Coelho is posted. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/the-zahir-by-paulo-coelho.php
For music lovers, there is the long-living-poetess Mirabai. Please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/melodies-of-mirabai-jan13.php
Viewers’ Corner is active as ever with our readers’ comments. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php
Photo-News captures some of the essence of Bali where I went with my lovely family.
Once again, I wish everyone a great 2013.
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Happy Season. Joy. Contentment. Triumph. Restoration of courage. Courage is what lifts our eyes beyond those unsolvable problems, and takes us forward towards newer, fresher dawns. Then, the whirlwinds cannot test the strength of a good foundation. Then, you are doing something ‘right’ in society. Then, every day is Xmas! Then, every day is a New Year! It’s not all that easy, but I keep trying… and do get invigorated with the courage-factor.
I am happy to be sharing news: my second book by Motivate Publishing is due for release any week from now! The title of the book is: No Journey Ends, consisting of 61 poems and prose pieces introducing the six sections of the book. Hopefully… hopefully… my third book ought to be complete within the coming month.
I also want to report that Riyadh-based Indian journalist, columnist, Mohammed Saifuddin (who is also the author of the book, “Expat Ride”), associated with YaHind.com has included me in his article: Indians in Gulf Boasting Success in Life. To view the same, please do click on:
http://www.yahind.com/indians-in-gulf-boasting-success-in-life/
It would be fatal for me to overlook that you are my lucky mascots.
L-U-C-K-Y M-A-S-C-O-T-S.
This month, all happy poems are posted. To view the poem: Happiness, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/dec2012/happiness.php
In the section of Prose, I share the experience: My Vanyatra In The State Of Maharashtra (journey in the forest). Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/dec2012/my-vanyatra-in-the-state-of-maharashtra.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, extended & enlarged version of Dr. Shihab Ghanem’s interview is there. He is an eminent Emirati Poet/Translator residing in Dubai, UAE. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/extended-and-enlarged-version-of-dr-shihab-ghanem.php
In the Book-Review section, My Life by Bill Clinton is posted. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/my-life-by-bill-clinton.php
In the Music section, there is An Evening with… INTER-CULTURAL LINKS (At A Performance). Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/an-evening-with-inter-cultural-links-dec2012.php
In Viewers’ Corner – His Excellency M. K. Lokesh (Indian Ambassador to the UAE) and Sanjay Verma (Consul General of India) have boosted the poet’s morale in me, by sending their encouraging messages. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php
I wish you all a great 2013!
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Happy Season. Joy. Contentment. Triumph. Restoration of courage. Courage is what lifts our eyes beyond those unsolvable problems, and takes us forward towards newer, fresher dawns. Then, the whirlwinds cannot test the strength of a good foundation. Then, you are doing something ‘right’ in society. Then, every day is Xmas! Then, every day is a New Year! It’s not all that easy, but I keep trying… and do get invigorated with the courage-factor.
I am happy to be sharing news: my second book by Motivate Publishing is due for release any week from now! The title of the book is: No Journey Ends, consisting of 61 poems and prose pieces introducing the six sections of the book. Hopefully… hopefully… my third book ought to be complete within the coming month.
I also want to report that Riyadh-based Indian journalist, columnist, Mohammed Saifuddin (who is also the author of the book, “Expat Ride”), associated with YaHind.com has included me in his article: Indians in Gulf Boasting Success in Life. To view the same, please do click on:
http://www.yahind.com/indians-in-gulf-boasting-success-in-life/
It would be fatal for me to overlook that you are my lucky mascots.
L-U-C-K-Y M-A-S-C-O-T-S.
This month, all happy poems are posted. To view the poem: Happiness, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/dec2012/happiness.php
In the section of Prose, I share the experience: My Vanyatra In The State Of Maharashtra (journey in the forest). Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/dec2012/my-vanyatra-in-the-state-of-maharashtra.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, extended & enlarged version of Dr. Shihab Ghanem’s interview is there. He is an eminent Emirati Poet/Translator residing in Dubai, UAE. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/extended-and-enlarged-version-of-dr-shihab-ghanem.php
In the Book-Review section, My Life by Bill Clinton is posted. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/my-life-by-bill-clinton.php
In the Music section, there is An Evening with… INTER-CULTURAL LINKS (At A Performance). Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/music/an-evening-with-inter-cultural-links-dec2012.php
In Viewers’ Corner – His Excellency M. K. Lokesh (Indian Ambassador to the UAE) and Sanjay Verma (Consul General of India) have boosted the poet’s morale in me, by sending their encouraging messages. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php
I wish you all a great 2013!
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I was in Mumbai for almost 5 weeks. It had its ‘ouches’ and ‘wows’ and how! The trip could not have got more hectic!
In the briskest way, I’ll tell you: I attended the mother of all book launches – R. Gopalakrishnan’s book: WHAT A CEO REALLY WANTS FROM YOU, got launched. To know what the wise author has to share, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/what_the_ceo_really_wants_from_you_by_r_gopalakrishnan.php
I went for Vanyatra (journey into forest) to an interior region of Maharashtra to see how 2 EKAL Schools are supporting the less privileged children. For photographs, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/ekal_vanyatra_in_wada_district_gargaon_maharashtra.php. My special thanks to the organization: Friends of Tribals Society for arranging the one-day-all-round-270 km road trip. Thanks to Namita Pandya, Seema Goyal, Kothari ji for giving me company.
Attending the inauguration of MANDAR was enriching. For me, any interaction with Harshad Mehta (Founder of MANDAR), Dr. Kiran Bedi, (and now with Mrs. Rajashree Birla) always culminates into the meaning of an actionable outcome, which is: I know more and more what I want from my life! Excelsior…! To learn about MANDAR, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/nov2012/introduction_to_mandar.php. For photographs, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/inauguration_of_mandar_at_trident_hotel_nariman_point_mumbai.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, extended & enlarged version of Ms. Alison Collins’s interview is there. She is the Founder/Owner of The Majlis Gallery, Dubai-UAE. To view her outlook, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/extended_and_enlarged_version_of_ms_alison_collins_interview.php
The wonderful concert organized by Shashi Vyas’s Pancham Nishad was a proven demonstration of an ‘Incredible India’. Each of the performers were top-class, as usual! Zakir Hussain on tabla, Rakesh Chaurasia on flute, Ganesh Rajagopalan on violin, Sridhar Parthasarathy on mridangam, George Brooks on saxophone transported the audience to the happiest planet!
And yes, I enjoyed every moment of being a part of Speak Abu Dhabi The Masters. I salute Bahareh Amidi (Founder of Speak Abu Dhabi), Hana Makki for their efforts and I thank Paris-Sorbonne University (Abu Dhabi). Befitting the event, I have a poem for Bahareh Amidi, my comrade-poets, musicians, and Paris-Sorbonne University: Event in Self-Celebration. Please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/nov2012/event_in_self_celebration.php. My poems, Pillow Talk & Situation, I recited at Paris-Sorbonne University. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/nov2012/pillow_talk.php
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/nov2012/situation.php
In the section of Photo-News, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/the_masters_at_paris_sorbonne_university_in_collaboration_with_speak_abu_dhabi.php to view the photographs of Speak Abu Dhabi The Masters.
Enjoy the season!
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I was in Mumbai for almost 5 weeks. It had its ‘ouches’ and ‘wows’ and how! The trip could not have got more hectic!
In the briskest way, I’ll tell you: I attended the mother of all book launches – R. Gopalakrishnan’s book: WHAT A CEO REALLY WANTS FROM YOU, got launched. To know what the wise author has to share, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/what_the_ceo_really_wants_from_you_by_r_gopalakrishnan.php
I went for Vanyatra (journey into forest) to an interior region of Maharashtra to see how 2 EKAL Schools are supporting the less privileged children. For photographs, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/ekal_vanyatra_in_wada_district_gargaon_maharashtra.php. My special thanks to the organization: Friends of Tribals Society for arranging the one-day-all-round-270 km road trip. Thanks to Namita Pandya, Seema Goyal, Kothari ji for giving me company.
Attending the inauguration of MANDAR was enriching. For me, any interaction with Harshad Mehta (Founder of MANDAR), Dr. Kiran Bedi, (and now with Mrs. Rajashree Birla) always culminates into the meaning of an actionable outcome, which is: I know more and more what I want from my life! Excelsior…! To learn about MANDAR, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/nov2012/introduction_to_mandar.php. For photographs, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/inauguration_of_mandar_at_trident_hotel_nariman_point_mumbai.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, extended & enlarged version of Ms. Alison Collins’s interview is there. She is the Founder/Owner of The Majlis Gallery, Dubai-UAE. To view her outlook, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/extended_and_enlarged_version_of_ms_alison_collins_interview.php
The wonderful concert organized by Shashi Vyas’s Pancham Nishad was a proven demonstration of an ‘Incredible India’. Each of the performers were top-class, as usual! Zakir Hussain on tabla, Rakesh Chaurasia on flute, Ganesh Rajagopalan on violin, Sridhar Parthasarathy on mridangam, George Brooks on saxophone transported the audience to the happiest planet!
And yes, I enjoyed every moment of being a part of Speak Abu Dhabi The Masters. I salute Bahareh Amidi (Founder of Speak Abu Dhabi), Hana Makki for their efforts and I thank Paris-Sorbonne University (Abu Dhabi). Befitting the event, I have a poem for Bahareh Amidi, my comrade-poets, musicians, and Paris-Sorbonne University: Event in Self-Celebration. Please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/nov2012/event_in_self_celebration.php. My poems, Pillow Talk & Situation, I recited at Paris-Sorbonne University. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/nov2012/pillow_talk.php
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/nov2012/situation.php
In the section of Photo-News, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/the_masters_at_paris_sorbonne_university_in_collaboration_with_speak_abu_dhabi.php to view the photographs of Speak Abu Dhabi The Masters.
Enjoy the season!
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
This month, the pace was hectic. My happy feet were happier, doing the things I most enjoy. The recent EKAL event resembled total success… thank you, all sweet people: volunteers, chief supporters, performers, audience. His Excellency M. K. Lokesh’s (our Indian Ambassador to U.A.E) participation was a chalice of inspiration for one and all. The dignitaries’ words were equally potent. And thank you, Mr. Harshad Mehta.
On 2nd October 2012, THINK PINK for Breast Cancer awareness got bigger and better at Zulekha Hospital in Dubai – the joint credit goes to the Joyalukkas Group. I have known of Joyalukkas’s social service spirit embracing other noble programmes, too. Hats off to Joyalukkas!
Plus, what a superb treat: ‘I AM GANDHI’, organized for Gandhi Jayanti (2nd October 2012) by The Consulate General of India, Dubai, and presented by Jogiraj Sikidar’s Malhaar Group. I swooned like a top! And, if there is someone who taught the best things to mankind, it is Gandhi ji. Having stated the obvious, I will keep stating this…
Then, I had the great privilege of reciting my poems from my book: An Indian Ode To The Emirates to a band of courageous, sparkling women at the Emirates Tower Hotel on 23rd September 2012. The group goes by the name of: Brest Friends, which meets regularly to celebrate life… they have fought it out with breast cancer. Truly, they are the Joans of Arc!
In the Poetry-Section, I specially composed the poem: Somewhere, From Here To There… for the cause of education, keeping the poor, down-trodden kids in mind. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/oct2012/somewhere_from_here_to_there.php
In the Prose-Section, THINK PINK gives awareness about Breast Cancer. Kindly click on: http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/oct2012/think_pink_campaign.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, extended & enlarged version of Mr. Vijay Prabhu’s interview is there. He is the Founder/Owner/Developer of Littlearth Group, Coonoor, India. To view his outlook, kindly click on: http://www.geetachhabra.com/diff_dialogues/extended_and_enlarged_version_of_Vijay Prabhus_interview.php
In the Book-Review section, Best Indian Short Stories by Khushwant Singh presents important Indian authors’ spun tales. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/book_review/best_indian_short_stories_by_khushwant_singh.php
Photo-News section carries the following:
(a) EKAL event celebrating 100 Years of Indian Cinema.
(b) THINK PINK programme at Zulekha Hospital.
(c) Brest Friends at Emirates Tower Hotel.
(d) Malhaar Group presenting "I AM GANDHI" on the ocassion of Gandhi Jayanti.
Happy Viewing!
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
This month, the pace was hectic. My happy feet were happier, doing the things I most enjoy. The recent EKAL event resembled total success… thank you, all sweet people: volunteers, chief supporters, performers, audience. His Excellency M. K. Lokesh’s (our Indian Ambassador to U.A.E) participation was a chalice of inspiration for one and all. The dignitaries’ words were equally potent. And thank you, Mr. Harshad Mehta.
On 2nd October 2012, THINK PINK for Breast Cancer awareness got bigger and better at Zulekha Hospital in Dubai – the joint credit goes to the Joyalukkas Group. I have known of Joyalukkas’s social service spirit embracing other noble programmes, too. Hats off to Joyalukkas!
Plus, what a superb treat: ‘I AM GANDHI’, organized for Gandhi Jayanti (2nd October 2012) by The Consulate General of India, Dubai, and presented by Jogiraj Sikidar’s Malhaar Group. I swooned like a top! And, if there is someone who taught the best things to mankind, it is Gandhi ji. Having stated the obvious, I will keep stating this…
Then, I had the great privilege of reciting my poems from my book: An Indian Ode To The Emirates to a band of courageous, sparkling women at the Emirates Tower Hotel on 23rd September 2012. The group goes by the name of: Brest Friends, which meets regularly to celebrate life… they have fought it out with breast cancer. Truly, they are the Joans of Arc!
In the Poetry-Section, I specially composed the poem: Somewhere, From Here To There… for the cause of education, keeping the poor, down-trodden kids in mind. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/oct2012/somewhere_from_here_to_there.php
In the Prose-Section, THINK PINK gives awareness about Breast Cancer. Kindly click on: http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/oct2012/think_pink_campaign.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, extended & enlarged version of Mr. Vijay Prabhu’s interview is there. He is the Founder/Owner/Developer of Littlearth Group, Coonoor, India. To view his outlook, kindly click on: http://www.geetachhabra.com/diff_dialogues/extended_and_enlarged_version_of_Vijay Prabhus_interview.php
In the Book-Review section, Best Indian Short Stories by Khushwant Singh presents important Indian authors’ spun tales. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/book_review/best_indian_short_stories_by_khushwant_singh.php
Photo-News section carries the following:
(a) EKAL event celebrating 100 Years of Indian Cinema.
(b) THINK PINK programme at Zulekha Hospital.
(c) Brest Friends at Emirates Tower Hotel.
(d) Malhaar Group presenting "I AM GANDHI" on the ocassion of Gandhi Jayanti.
Happy Viewing!
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I am back in Dubai from Mumbai. This time, the monsoon showers did very little to cheer up my mood…
During my nearly 4 week stay in Mumbai, pessimism draped me from top to toe. Outrage grows to see my beloved city deteriorating. Reality is that apart from the economic slowdown, India has her long-term challenges of mass scale corruption, poverty, disease – and all these are very inadequately being addressed by action. Amid my mood of pessimism, I also wonder when India will be freed from clans of money-raking-politicians who are devoid of any conscience to feel for the down-trodden.
The weight of my sad observations remembered two of my poems: The Monsoon Mask and Monsoon Mania. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/sep2012/the_monsoon_mask.php,
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/sep2012/monsoon_mania.php respectively.
From now onwards, the section of Different Dialogues will present, frequently, expanded and enlarged version of the previous interviews. We begin the series with Dr. Mithu Alur who has written and been published over 35 years on the issues of child rights and the methods of educating poor children with disabilities. To know more about the wonderful personality of Dr. Mithu Alur, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/extended_and_enlarged_version_of_dr_mithu_alurs_interview.php
In the Prose-Section, Lifestyle, and another Prose-Piece, Tasks. Tasks. Tasks. are in the common interest that I want to share with you. To view Lifestyle, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/sep2012/lifestyle.php.
To view Tasks. Tasks. Tasks., please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/sep2012/tasks_tasks_tasks.php
In the Book-Review section, Expat Ride by Mohammed Saifuddin is giving concise and precise information for expats. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/expat_ride_by_mohammed_saifuddin.php
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I am back in Dubai from Mumbai. This time, the monsoon showers did very little to cheer up my mood…
During my nearly 4 week stay in Mumbai, pessimism draped me from top to toe. Outrage grows to see my beloved city deteriorating. Reality is that apart from the economic slowdown, India has her long-term challenges of mass scale corruption, poverty, disease – and all these are very inadequately being addressed by action. Amid my mood of pessimism, I also wonder when India will be freed from clans of money-raking-politicians who are devoid of any conscience to feel for the down-trodden.
The weight of my sad observations remembered two of my poems: The Monsoon Mask and Monsoon Mania. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/sep2012/the_monsoon_mask.php,
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/sep2012/monsoon_mania.php respectively.
From now onwards, the section of Different Dialogues will present, frequently, expanded and enlarged version of the previous interviews. We begin the series with Dr. Mithu Alur who has written and been published over 35 years on the issues of child rights and the methods of educating poor children with disabilities. To know more about the wonderful personality of Dr. Mithu Alur, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/extended_and_enlarged_version_of_dr_mithu_alurs_interview.php
In the Prose-Section, Lifestyle, and another Prose-Piece, Tasks. Tasks. Tasks. are in the common interest that I want to share with you. To view Lifestyle, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/sep2012/lifestyle.php.
To view Tasks. Tasks. Tasks., please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/sep2012/tasks_tasks_tasks.php
In the Book-Review section, Expat Ride by Mohammed Saifuddin is giving concise and precise information for expats. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/expat_ride_by_mohammed_saifuddin.php
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Apart from the intense summer’s heat (which I don’t mind at all), tons of things are jostling me with mixed elements. Happy chapters of family reunion. Certain future apprehensions. Ah! life is a medley of sorts, isn’t it? I am as unhappy, or happy as I convince myself to be. I overcome all things by writing poems! That’s true!
My work for the second book has been accepted by Motivate Publishing. As publishers of repute, they inspire me to move from one phase to another. And, I always need your good wishes. Third book? Yes, work in progress.
My first book: An Indian Ode To The Emirates is available in book stores of U.A.E. Online, the book is available at:
http://www.amazon.com/Indian-Ode-Emirates-Geeta-Chhabra/dp/1860633242
http://www.booksarabia.com/books_details.php?id=223
http://en-ae.mizado.com/an-indian-ode-to-the-emirates-book-by-geeta-chhabra-review-hobbies-travel-36688.html
In the Poetry Section, I am in the mood for the poem: The Funny Monkey in Me! To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/aug2012/The_Funny_Monkey_in_Me.php
In the Prose-Section, do check out A Miraculous Invention. To view the same, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/aug2012/A_Miraculous_Invention.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, we have Ms. Isobel Abulhoul talking to us about the meaning of life and books. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Ms_Isobel_Abulhoul.php
Photo-News is about: Family-Fun-Holiday and NGI luncheon gathering with personalities making a mark. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Family_Fun_Holiday.php for Family-Fun-Holiday and also click on: http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/NGI_Luncheon_Gathering.php for the NGI luncheon gathering.
In the Book-Review section, A Princess Remembers by Gayatri Devi, is a book to be remembered. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/A_Princess_Remembers_by_Gayatri_Devi.php
Viewers' Corner is perennial. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/comments/viewers_comments.php
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Let these reflections promote my recovery. I had been house-bound with my right foot in bandage. For five long days, I was having a slight limp. Yet, I went bicycling in Zabeel Park. I strolled in the Malls. I went to Al Ain to visit the zoo. I went for my work and walks. When the limp increased, then, I thought that the prosperity of entertaining house-guests had given me mild gout. I was wrong. I should have known that I was behaving wrong from the beginning. Finally, the X-ray of my foot showed it was a case of strained ligaments getting further aggravated by my lack of vision. How stupid of me, really! The upside is the refreshing bond I enjoyed, while my visiting families from India shared their time with me.
Meanwhile, the region of UAE is all set with the flavour of the holy Ramadan. This is the most significant month in the Islamic calendar. For me too, Ramadan is very close to my heart. The poem, Ramadan Kareem was written during a Ramadan month. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/july2012/Ramadan_Kareem.php
In the Prose-Section, the spirit of Ramadan flows on, beautifully. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/july2012/Ramadan_Theme_I.php
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/july2012/Ramadan_Theme_II.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, we have Mr. Bharat Kumar Shah. To view the same, kindly click on: http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Mr_Bharat_Kumar_Shah.php
Photo-News is about: Family-Friends-Get-Together. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Family_Friends_Get_Together_at_Capital_Club_DIFC_Dubai.php
Photo-News is also about Indian friends getting Presidential Awards. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Presidential_Award_Ceremony_held_at_Rashtrapathi_Bhavan_New_Delhi.php
In the Book-Review section, Journey to Self-Realization (Volume III) by Sri Sri Paramahansa Yogananda proves to be a useful guide.Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Journey_to_Self_Realization_Volume3_by_Sri_Sri_Paramahansa_Yogananda.php
Please do check the Micro Site of my book: An Indian Ode To The Emirates. Thank you readers, thank you press and media, thank you Motivate Publishing – for making the Micro Site grow and grow. Kindly click on: http://www.geetachhabra.com/an_indian_ode_to_the_emirates
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Let these reflections promote my recovery. I had been house-bound with my right foot in bandage. For five long days, I was having a slight limp. Yet, I went bicycling in Zabeel Park. I strolled in the Malls. I went to Al Ain to visit the zoo. I went for my work and walks. When the limp increased, then, I thought that the prosperity of entertaining house-guests had given me mild gout. I was wrong. I should have known that I was behaving wrong from the beginning. Finally, the X-ray of my foot showed it was a case of strained ligaments getting further aggravated by my lack of vision. How stupid of me, really! The upside is the refreshing bond I enjoyed, while my visiting families from India shared their time with me.
Meanwhile, the region of UAE is all set with the flavour of the holy Ramadan. This is the most significant month in the Islamic calendar. For me too, Ramadan is very close to my heart. The poem, Ramadan Kareem was written during a Ramadan month. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/july2012/Ramadan_Kareem.php
In the Prose-Section, the spirit of Ramadan flows on, beautifully. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/july2012/Ramadan_Theme_I.php
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/july2012/Ramadan_Theme_II.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, we have Mr. Bharat Kumar Shah. To view the same, kindly click on: http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Mr_Bharat_Kumar_Shah.php
Photo-News is about: Family-Friends-Get-Together. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Family_Friends_Get_Together_at_Capital_Club_DIFC_Dubai.php
Photo-News is also about Indian friends getting Presidential Awards. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/Presidential_Award_Ceremony_held_at_Rashtrapathi_Bhavan_New_Delhi.php
In the Book-Review section, Journey to Self-Realization (Volume III) by Sri Sri Paramahansa Yogananda proves to be a useful guide.Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Journey_to_Self_Realization_Volume3_by_Sri_Sri_Paramahansa_Yogananda.php
Please do check the Micro Site of my book: An Indian Ode To The Emirates. Thank you readers, thank you press and media, thank you Motivate Publishing – for making the Micro Site grow and grow. Kindly click on: http://www.geetachhabra.com/an_indian_ode_to_the_emirates
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
According to various sources, including the United Nations, up to 14,005 – 19,770 people have been killed in Syria, since the spring of 2011. In this civil conflict, half of them are civilians, including women and children. Many more lie injured or imprisoned. Out of these on-going-clashes, we can translate one more nation becoming a nation of acute suffering. Blame it on war! But, who make war?
In the Poetry-Section, I post my feelings for Syria in a poem: A Piece On Conscience. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/june2012/A_Piece_On_Conscience.php
Also matching my recent mood is a poem:On Failure. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/june2012/On_Failure.php
In the section of: Different Dialogues, we have Mr. Maghanmal Pancholia. The grand man is 92 years of age who shares interesting facts of his life uniting him with UAE.
Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Mr_Maghanmal_Pancholia.php
In the Prose Section: A Prized Gift is a very special message received from a very special personality residing in Japan, Dr. Daisaku Ikeda – President, Soka Gakkai International. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/jun2012/A_Prized_Gift.php
Analysis of Laziness has its value to help us all. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/jun2012/Analysis_of_Laziness.php
In the Book-Review Section, Khushwant Singh’s book: ABSOLUTE KHUSHWANT – is absolute Khushwant…! To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/ABSOLUTE_KHUSHWANT_by_Khushwant_Singh_with_Humra_Quraishi.php
Photo-News is ever alive. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/photo_news.php
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
According to various sources, including the United Nations, up to 14,005 – 19,770 people have been killed in Syria, since the spring of 2011. In this civil conflict, half of them are civilians, including women and children. Many more lie injured or imprisoned. Out of these on-going-clashes, we can translate one more nation becoming a nation of acute suffering. Blame it on war! But, who make war?
In the Poetry-Section, I post my feelings for Syria in a poem: A Piece On Conscience. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/june2012/A_Piece_On_Conscience.php
Also matching my recent mood is a poem:On Failure. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/june2012/On_Failure.php
In the section of: Different Dialogues, we have Mr. Maghanmal Pancholia. The grand man is 92 years of age who shares interesting facts of his life uniting him with UAE.
Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Mr_Maghanmal_Pancholia.php
In the Prose Section: A Prized Gift is a very special message received from a very special personality residing in Japan, Dr. Daisaku Ikeda – President, Soka Gakkai International. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/jun2012/A_Prized_Gift.php
Analysis of Laziness has its value to help us all. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/jun2012/Analysis_of_Laziness.php
In the Book-Review Section, Khushwant Singh’s book: ABSOLUTE KHUSHWANT – is absolute Khushwant…! To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/ABSOLUTE_KHUSHWANT_by_Khushwant_Singh_with_Humra_Quraishi.php
Photo-News is ever alive. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/photo_news.php
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
The month of April has been super. This April, my bi-lingual Coffee Table Book of 40 poems (celebrating 40 years of UAE’s union) was launched at Raffles Hotel, Dubai. It was heart warming to see so many friends and well-wishers participating in my joy. The Micro Site created for my book: An Indian Ode To The Emirates, illustrates the launch-event, photographs, press-media coverage, and ofcourse, your precious comments. To view, please click:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/an_indian_ode_to_the_emirates/
The launch-event allowed me to review the meaning of experience. Many experiences. I also realize the task of writing is a serious commitment for me.
Another delight for me in the month of April has been: To receive Poets Printery International Best Poetry Web Site Award for Creativity and New Age Poetry. I thank Poets Printery – I remain indebted to it. In fact, the award enhances my mind to write even more!
Back to this month’s issue, it carries my poems which are in mixed elements. Kindly click: http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
For Prose-Pieces click on: http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
Photo-News covers the EKAL Cricket Event held at Zabeel Park, Dubai, UAE on 20th April 2012. Photo-News also carries a few photographs of the dinner celebrating South Africa’s National Day. The hosts were His Excellency Yacoob Abba Omar & Mrs. Latiefa Abba Omar. To view the same, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/photo_news.php
In the section of: Different Dialogues, we have 92 year old dame Maryam Behnam in conversation. The fervour of energy is evergreen in some special people. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Ms_Maryam_Behnam_may2012.php
The Book Review section carries Suketu Mehta’s Maximum City. It’s an absolute must! To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Maximum_City_by_Suketu_Mehta.php
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
The month of April has been super. This April, my bi-lingual Coffee Table Book of 40 poems (celebrating 40 years of UAE’s union) was launched at Raffles Hotel, Dubai. It was heart warming to see so many friends and well-wishers participating in my joy. The Micro Site created for my book: An Indian Ode To The Emirates, illustrates the launch-event, photographs, press-media coverage, and ofcourse, your precious comments. To view, please click:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/an_indian_ode_to_the_emirates/
The launch-event allowed me to review the meaning of experience. Many experiences. I also realize the task of writing is a serious commitment for me.
Another delight for me in the month of April has been: To receive Poets Printery International Best Poetry Web Site Award for Creativity and New Age Poetry. I thank Poets Printery – I remain indebted to it. In fact, the award enhances my mind to write even more!
Back to this month’s issue, it carries my poems which are in mixed elements. Kindly click: http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php
For Prose-Pieces click on: http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/proseindex.php
Photo-News covers the EKAL Cricket Event held at Zabeel Park, Dubai, UAE on 20th April 2012. Photo-News also carries a few photographs of the dinner celebrating South Africa’s National Day. The hosts were His Excellency Yacoob Abba Omar & Mrs. Latiefa Abba Omar. To view the same, please click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/photo_news.php
In the section of: Different Dialogues, we have 92 year old dame Maryam Behnam in conversation. The fervour of energy is evergreen in some special people. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Ms_Maryam_Behnam_may2012.php
The Book Review section carries Suketu Mehta’s Maximum City. It’s an absolute must! To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Maximum_City_by_Suketu_Mehta.php
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
An Indian Ode To The Emirates, my first Coffee Table Book is born! A big thank you to all my readers and well wishers and of course, my Publishers – Motivate Publishing for making my book launch of: An Indian Ode To The Emirates, a huge success. Full of gratitude and humility, I am pleased to share with you the spate of activities that followed including the book being featured at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, Media coverage in Gulf News, HELLO! magazine, Friday magazine and the book reviews that followed in abundance!
To view the above, please click on http://www.geetachhabra.com/an_indian_ode_to_the_emirates
I always look forward to hearing from you.
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
An Indian Ode To The Emirates, my first Coffee Table Book is born! A big thank you to all my readers and well wishers and of course, my Publishers – Motivate Publishing for making my book launch of: An Indian Ode To The Emirates, a huge success. Full of gratitude and humility, I am pleased to share with you the spate of activities that followed including the book being featured at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, Media coverage in Gulf News, HELLO! magazine, Friday magazine and the book reviews that followed in abundance!
To view the above, please click on http://www.geetachhabra.com/an_indian_ode_to_the_emirates
I always look forward to hearing from you.
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Aren’t we seeking answers everyday of our lives? Answers about people, answers about seen, unseen happenings? According to choice or context, we are curious to get explanations; some of the replies benefit us, others are capable of making us readily available for gossip. Persons immune to gossip have mastered their emotions, and they do not unnecessarily burden their minds by any sort of speculative diversion. Looking at life with the ultimate gift of freedom, they are free from the scenario of: What “others” are “thinking” about “them”. Being awakened to a higher perception, they are very clear to seek the help of only truth and righteousness. Epicurus, a famous Greek philosopher said: If you shape your life according to nature, you will never be poor; if according to people’s opinion, you will never be rich. I see you wise man!
My book: An Indian Ode To The Emirates is due for release on the 27th March in Dubai. His Excellency Mr. M. K. Lokesh (Indian Ambassador to the U.A.E.), Mr. Sanjay Verma (Consul General of India to Dubai), Ian Fairservice (Managing Partner & Group Editor of Motivate Publishing) are added examples from whom I have received support. I thank all those who have been by my side to complete my book. What about my readers? They are my perpetual luck!
Now and now, there is Consul General, Mr. Sanjay Verma’s interview in the section of: Different Dialogues. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Mr_Sanjay_Verma_Consul_General_of_India_to_Dubai_mar2012.php.
Photo-News was noticed by many readers. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/photo_news.php.
In the Prose Section: The Prose-piece, How to Destroy A Bad Temper – could apply to any of us! Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/mar2012/How_To_Destroy_A_Bad_Temper.php.
The Poetry section has a view of my mixed emotions, the currents are diverse. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php.
Do visit the sections: Book Review and Music.
Welcome! To the brand-new-look of www.geetachhabra.com. Thank you Vibha, thank you V2 Film and Design Pvt. Ltd.
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Aren’t we seeking answers everyday of our lives? Answers about people, answers about seen, unseen happenings? According to choice or context, we are curious to get explanations; some of the replies benefit us, others are capable of making us readily available for gossip. Persons immune to gossip have mastered their emotions, and they do not unnecessarily burden their minds by any sort of speculative diversion. Looking at life with the ultimate gift of freedom, they are free from the scenario of: What “others” are “thinking” about “them”. Being awakened to a higher perception, they are very clear to seek the help of only truth and righteousness. Epicurus, a famous Greek philosopher said: If you shape your life according to nature, you will never be poor; if according to people’s opinion, you will never be rich. I see you wise man!
My book: An Indian Ode To The Emirates is due for release on the 27th March in Dubai. His Excellency Mr. M. K. Lokesh (Indian Ambassador to the U.A.E.), Mr. Sanjay Verma (Consul General of India to Dubai), Ian Fairservice (Managing Partner & Group Editor of Motivate Publishing) are added examples from whom I have received support. I thank all those who have been by my side to complete my book. What about my readers? They are my perpetual luck!
Now and now, there is Consul General, Mr. Sanjay Verma’s interview in the section of: Different Dialogues. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Mr_Sanjay_Verma_Consul_General_of_India_to_Dubai_mar2012.php.
Photo-News was noticed by many readers. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/photo_news.php.
In the Prose Section: The Prose-piece, How to Destroy A Bad Temper – could apply to any of us! Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/mar2012/How_To_Destroy_A_Bad_Temper.php.
The Poetry section has a view of my mixed emotions, the currents are diverse. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/poetryindex.php.
Do visit the sections: Book Review and Music.
Welcome! To the brand-new-look of www.geetachhabra.com. Thank you Vibha, thank you V2 Film and Design Pvt. Ltd.
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I very strongly believe that you create the sequence of my creative process. Last week, while in Mumbai, I received the first copy of my book: An Indian Ode To The Emirates from my publishers, Motivate Publishing. It is a pictorial, bi-lingual (English, Arabic) Coffee Table Book containing 40 of my poems, celebrating 40 years of UAE Union. The translation into Arabic has been done by the well-known poet/translator – Dr. Shihab Ghanem.
My mind has already told me to start on with another book. It is common knowledge that a writer is reborn with every lesson: learnt. Out of the encounters while learning, rises taut restlessness. I have managed to derive a freer spirit, additional courage, hope and tons of gratitude from such encounters.
Thank God – I also realize, if my pen were to get overly emotional, then I can become an idle, irresponsible writer. And for me, that would be a serious problem. Challenges come and go, they are seasonal. It’s the ‘inner self’ which is in need of perennial balance.
In the Prose-Section, you will like – The 45 Lessons by Regina Brett of The Plain Dealer, Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/feb2012/the_45_lessons.php
In the Poem-Section, there was much scope for my prevailing mood! Please check out the poem: Caw! Caw! Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/feb2012/caw_caw.php
In Different Dialogues – Dr. R. K. Kapoor’s contribution as an Eye Surgeon is inspiring. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Dr_R_K_Kapoor_feb2012.php
Viewers’ Corner always welcomes you for your views!
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I very strongly believe that you create the sequence of my creative process. Last week, while in Mumbai, I received the first copy of my book: An Indian Ode To The Emirates from my publishers, Motivate Publishing. It is a pictorial, bi-lingual (English, Arabic) Coffee Table Book containing 40 of my poems, celebrating 40 years of UAE Union. The translation into Arabic has been done by the well-known poet/translator – Dr. Shihab Ghanem.
My mind has already told me to start on with another book. It is common knowledge that a writer is reborn with every lesson: learnt. Out of the encounters while learning, rises taut restlessness. I have managed to derive a freer spirit, additional courage, hope and tons of gratitude from such encounters.
Thank God – I also realize, if my pen were to get overly emotional, then I can become an idle, irresponsible writer. And for me, that would be a serious problem. Challenges come and go, they are seasonal. It’s the ‘inner self’ which is in need of perennial balance.
In the Prose-Section, you will like – The 45 Lessons by Regina Brett of The Plain Dealer, Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/feb2012/the_45_lessons.php
In the Poem-Section, there was much scope for my prevailing mood! Please check out the poem: Caw! Caw! Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/feb2012/caw_caw.php
In Different Dialogues – Dr. R. K. Kapoor’s contribution as an Eye Surgeon is inspiring. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Dr_R_K_Kapoor_feb2012.php
Viewers’ Corner always welcomes you for your views!
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Last month was a time for routine medical revaluations. For me and my spouse, results were from very fair to excellent. The world renowned cardiologist, Dr. F. Shawl at Zulekha Hospital (Dubai) tells me that I have a stout heart and it is highly unlikely that I will be dropped dead by any sudden surprises! It is hard to resist quoting a medical expert, especially, when he gives you a clean chit. The word is not late to say that we do take good health for granted.
In balanced discussions, often, entire relationships are taken for granted. This is a universal phenomena. Appraising the term: ‘taken-for-granted’, itself, rings the gong to place most of us to write impressive essays on our individual experiences. Speaking about failed relationships, I should say, a sensible person will resort to two things: 1) reconcile with the theory of acceptance (only, after he has consciously done his very best for the subjects) 2) look for a wise way out for the future’s practical value.
I believe, it is meditating madness to live in a manner which in strength saps your spirit; or it hinders your moral worth to contribute positively. These are what we learn from masters who have known the true purpose of life. Much like seasoned travellers, we’ve got to move on, proving our usefulness continually in fresher pastures.
In this issue, the Prose-Piece: The Theory of Acceptance, might interest you for its practical usefulness. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/jan2012/The_Theory_of_Acceptance.php
Also, the Prose-Piece: Bauji could well connect you with your own precious childhood. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/jan2012/Bauji_My_Mothers_Father.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim Al Tartoor tells about Sharjah Social Service Department. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Mr_Ahmed_Ibrahim_Altartoor_jan2012.php
In the Poetry-Section, you will find my childhood as the source of my poems. I am sure these poems might well make you remember your own childhood.
Thanks to you, Viewers’ Corner, Photo-News are always keeping up with their pace.
How were Xmas, New Year celebrations?
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Last month was a time for routine medical revaluations. For me and my spouse, results were from very fair to excellent. The world renowned cardiologist, Dr. F. Shawl at Zulekha Hospital (Dubai) tells me that I have a stout heart and it is highly unlikely that I will be dropped dead by any sudden surprises! It is hard to resist quoting a medical expert, especially, when he gives you a clean chit. The word is not late to say that we do take good health for granted.
In balanced discussions, often, entire relationships are taken for granted. This is a universal phenomena. Appraising the term: ‘taken-for-granted’, itself, rings the gong to place most of us to write impressive essays on our individual experiences. Speaking about failed relationships, I should say, a sensible person will resort to two things: 1) reconcile with the theory of acceptance (only, after he has consciously done his very best for the subjects) 2) look for a wise way out for the future’s practical value.
I believe, it is meditating madness to live in a manner which in strength saps your spirit; or it hinders your moral worth to contribute positively. These are what we learn from masters who have known the true purpose of life. Much like seasoned travellers, we’ve got to move on, proving our usefulness continually in fresher pastures.
In this issue, the Prose-Piece: The Theory of Acceptance, might interest you for its practical usefulness. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/jan2012/The_Theory_of_Acceptance.php
Also, the Prose-Piece: Bauji could well connect you with your own precious childhood. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/jan2012/Bauji_My_Mothers_Father.php
In the section of Different Dialogues, Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim Al Tartoor tells about Sharjah Social Service Department. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Mr_Ahmed_Ibrahim_Altartoor_jan2012.php
In the Poetry-Section, you will find my childhood as the source of my poems. I am sure these poems might well make you remember your own childhood.
Thanks to you, Viewers’ Corner, Photo-News are always keeping up with their pace.
How were Xmas, New Year celebrations?
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Nearer to Xmas, in the midst of Springish weather! And with the UAE celebrating its 40th Year of Union – there is a feeling of exceptional ‘high’ around us in Dubai. In memorable parts, seminars after seminars are taking place accentuating inter-cultural bonds between UAE and the world. We are lulled by peace, enjoying the most sacred quality of living – which is freedom. It’s quite a doting view over here! Coffee-lovers diving into the festive caverns of coffee-shops; another category roaming in the come-from-heaven Malls… Most days, the sun’s unbroken rays touch the earth and my face – to the point that I want to look skyward, openly spread my arms in the air, and say with a long song, ‘Thank You! God Almighty’. At all things in my mind is: gratitude. I pray that I pass from any experience with regulated calm. I wish with strength the same for everyone: known, unknown. I try to pick up the central message of Xmas, Eid, Diwali and hope I can emerge in self-improvement, daily.
On the eve of the 40th National Day, President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan has issued a set of historic resolutions aimed at raising the living standards of Emiratis. Undoubtedly, this land of Sheikhdoms is blessed with wisdom and wealth: solemnizing the continuous oath of public welfare. See! That’s the cogency of my deliberation… Why didn’t, why couldn’t country-heads of Egypt, Libya, Yemen, Syria, Iraq, Tunisia grasp the reasoning example of UAE?
What’s on further with me? I am looking forward to the release of my book by Motivate Publishing. It’s a bi-lingual collection of 40 poems commemorating 40 years of UAE formation. My friend, Dr. Shihab Ghanem has put my poems into the Arabic translations and each poem is defined by the measure of a pictorial tribute. Further on, I am thrilled with the news from Dr. Amitabh Mitra (Editor of Hudson View) that my verse is included in a forthcoming book of anthology.
In the section of Different Dialogues, we have Mr. Khalid Ali Al Jallaf. He is an international speaker, putting into his brush-work: The Art of Islamic Calligraphy. To view the interview, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Mr_Khalid_Ali_Al_Jallaf_dec2011.php.
In Prose, His Excellency, M. K. Lokesh – Ambassador of India to UAE shared wonderful links between India-UAE at a recent seminar in Abu Dhabi. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/dec2011/India-Arab_Cultural_Relations.php.
In Prose, Bikram Vohra’s (Editorial Advisor, Khaleej Times) article: Do you honour your parents? ignited my keenness to present my own considerations in A Time to Ponder. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/dec2011/Mutual_Reflections.php.
In Poetry, I decided to filter my cheerful poems for you – all the way! An Ode to the Arabian Desert is my way of expressing 40 years of UAE’s Spirit of Union.
Photo-News is alive as ever...
Merry Xmas! And A Happy New Year of 2012.
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Nearer to Xmas, in the midst of Springish weather! And with the UAE celebrating its 40th Year of Union – there is a feeling of exceptional ‘high’ around us in Dubai. In memorable parts, seminars after seminars are taking place accentuating inter-cultural bonds between UAE and the world. We are lulled by peace, enjoying the most sacred quality of living – which is freedom. It’s quite a doting view over here! Coffee-lovers diving into the festive caverns of coffee-shops; another category roaming in the come-from-heaven Malls… Most days, the sun’s unbroken rays touch the earth and my face – to the point that I want to look skyward, openly spread my arms in the air, and say with a long song, ‘Thank You! God Almighty’. At all things in my mind is: gratitude. I pray that I pass from any experience with regulated calm. I wish with strength the same for everyone: known, unknown. I try to pick up the central message of Xmas, Eid, Diwali and hope I can emerge in self-improvement, daily.
On the eve of the 40th National Day, President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan has issued a set of historic resolutions aimed at raising the living standards of Emiratis. Undoubtedly, this land of Sheikhdoms is blessed with wisdom and wealth: solemnizing the continuous oath of public welfare. See! That’s the cogency of my deliberation… Why didn’t, why couldn’t country-heads of Egypt, Libya, Yemen, Syria, Iraq, Tunisia grasp the reasoning example of UAE?
What’s on further with me? I am looking forward to the release of my book by Motivate Publishing. It’s a bi-lingual collection of 40 poems commemorating 40 years of UAE formation. My friend, Dr. Shihab Ghanem has put my poems into the Arabic translations and each poem is defined by the measure of a pictorial tribute. Further on, I am thrilled with the news from Dr. Amitabh Mitra (Editor of Hudson View) that my verse is included in a forthcoming book of anthology.
In the section of Different Dialogues, we have Mr. Khalid Ali Al Jallaf. He is an international speaker, putting into his brush-work: The Art of Islamic Calligraphy. To view the interview, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Mr_Khalid_Ali_Al_Jallaf_dec2011.php.
In Prose, His Excellency, M. K. Lokesh – Ambassador of India to UAE shared wonderful links between India-UAE at a recent seminar in Abu Dhabi. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/dec2011/India-Arab_Cultural_Relations.php.
In Prose, Bikram Vohra’s (Editorial Advisor, Khaleej Times) article: Do you honour your parents? ignited my keenness to present my own considerations in A Time to Ponder. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/dec2011/Mutual_Reflections.php.
In Poetry, I decided to filter my cheerful poems for you – all the way! An Ode to the Arabian Desert is my way of expressing 40 years of UAE’s Spirit of Union.
Photo-News is alive as ever...
Merry Xmas! And A Happy New Year of 2012.
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
In view of their practical value, the likes of Sadam, Gaddafi, Mubarak – they certainly show off a demonic side. The term ‘demonic’ refers to persons who live in the totality of vices. The opposite of demonic can be termed as divine. A divine person lives virtuously. He is someone who is endowed with qualities of honesty, self-discipline, fearlessness, truthfulness, charity and compassion. With blood on their hands, greed in their coffers, Sadam and Gaddafi are dead; Mubarak’s nature of living is worse than death, itself. With the resources they had in their hands, they were in position to have proven useful to millions around them. Tragically, they ended up doing nothing for themselves or for others.
It is entirely up to us to raise the bar – our individual bar towards divinity. A solid theme for improvement comes through spiritual awareness. The major merit of the concept is that it is scientific. Spiritual awareness can be achieved by a multitude of ways. However, the simplest is to find time to connect with the: One and Only. To different people, One and Only, can mean differently. Louis Pasteur, the renowned scientist wrote: ‘Blessed is he who carried with him God as ideal and obeys it – ideal of art, ideal of science, ideal of gospel virtues. Therein lie the springs of great thoughts and great actions. They all reflect light from the infinite’.
A latest poem of mine: Words for Muammar Gaddafi, symbolizes Gaddafi’s life and the way of his end. It has been posted on the popular Canadian site of Dr. Qais Ghanem. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.dialoguewithdiversity.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=10650:words-for-muammar-gaddafi-poem-by-geeta-chhabra&catid=35:poetry&Itemid=75
or to view the poem by clicking: http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/nov2011/Words_for_Muammar_Gaddafi.php
My Most Beautiful Dream is a poem especially for Khurshid Jassawala and Perviz Ginwala and all the fellow disciples of the great contemporary saint, Sri Sri Paramahansa Yogananada. To view the poem, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/nov2011/My_Most_Beautiful_Dream.php
Among the Prose-Pieces, Sayings of my guru Paramahansa Yogananda shows the proper, practical course for our lives. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/nov2011/Sayings_of_Paramahansa_Yogananda.php
Different Dialogues carries an interview of an international poet – Sameer Atiyeh. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Mr_Sameer_Atiyeh_Palestine_Poet_nov2011.php
Among other section of the issue, Photo-News carries important poets and poetry-events. Have a look!
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
In view of their practical value, the likes of Sadam, Gaddafi, Mubarak – they certainly show off a demonic side. The term ‘demonic’ refers to persons who live in the totality of vices. The opposite of demonic can be termed as divine. A divine person lives virtuously. He is someone who is endowed with qualities of honesty, self-discipline, fearlessness, truthfulness, charity and compassion. With blood on their hands, greed in their coffers, Sadam and Gaddafi are dead; Mubarak’s nature of living is worse than death, itself. With the resources they had in their hands, they were in position to have proven useful to millions around them. Tragically, they ended up doing nothing for themselves or for others.
It is entirely up to us to raise the bar – our individual bar towards divinity. A solid theme for improvement comes through spiritual awareness. The major merit of the concept is that it is scientific. Spiritual awareness can be achieved by a multitude of ways. However, the simplest is to find time to connect with the: One and Only. To different people, One and Only, can mean differently. Louis Pasteur, the renowned scientist wrote: ‘Blessed is he who carried with him God as ideal and obeys it – ideal of art, ideal of science, ideal of gospel virtues. Therein lie the springs of great thoughts and great actions. They all reflect light from the infinite’.
A latest poem of mine: Words for Muammar Gaddafi, symbolizes Gaddafi’s life and the way of his end. It has been posted on the popular Canadian site of Dr. Qais Ghanem. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.dialoguewithdiversity.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=10650:words-for-muammar-gaddafi-poem-by-geeta-chhabra&catid=35:poetry&Itemid=75
or to view the poem by clicking: http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/nov2011/Words_for_Muammar_Gaddafi.php
My Most Beautiful Dream is a poem especially for Khurshid Jassawala and Perviz Ginwala and all the fellow disciples of the great contemporary saint, Sri Sri Paramahansa Yogananada. To view the poem, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/nov2011/My_Most_Beautiful_Dream.php
Among the Prose-Pieces, Sayings of my guru Paramahansa Yogananda shows the proper, practical course for our lives. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/nov2011/Sayings_of_Paramahansa_Yogananda.php
Different Dialogues carries an interview of an international poet – Sameer Atiyeh. To view the same, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Mr_Sameer_Atiyeh_Palestine_Poet_nov2011.php
Among other section of the issue, Photo-News carries important poets and poetry-events. Have a look!
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Have you realized, even with a host of miracles, if the fear-factor mingles within our thoughts and mind, it can make us creatures of cowardice? I think our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. In most cases, we give other people permission to make us feel that we are inadequate. I’d like to give is this: nervous-brooding will not overcome fear but action will. Fear does not compliment anyone who has words of hope and genuine love for others. Let there be light… Oh! My God – what happens to me, happens to most of us, one time or the other: Are you saying this to me?! Expanding on the theme, I dug out some excellent quotes on: Overcoming Fear. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/oct2011/Quotes_on_Overcoming_Fear.php
The Prose-Piece: Did You Know? Contains interesting facts on the enlightened crusader for peace and justice – Mahatma Gandhi.
Another Prose-Piece worth reading. I must make a very special mention of Abdul Aziz Saud Al-Babtain Foundation which hosted a 3 day International Poetry Conference, “Poetry for Peaceful Co-existence”, in Dubai. What a treat it was! What a great gesture to have created this dynamic international foundation. For more information, kindly click on: http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/oct2011/Poetry_for_Peaceful_Co-existence.php
In the Poetry’s section, my most recent poem, ‘Event on Self-Celebration’, holds the aspect of fearlessness within me. Please, click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/oct2011/Event_in_Self-Celebration.php
Plus, learn about Dr. Qais Ghanem’s dreams and realization. He is the Creator-Presenter of the popular Canadian Radio Show – Dialogue with Diversity. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Dr_Qais_Ghanem_oct2011.php
And there is an added: Wow! This is about a beautiful 4 language Coffee Table Book by Mohammad Saleh Al-Gurg on Rubaiyat Of Omar Khayyam. Do Check out in the Book Review section by clicking:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Coffee_Table_Book_by_Mohammad_Saleh_Al-Gurg.php
Wishing you all a Joy-filled Happy Diwali.
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Have you realized, even with a host of miracles, if the fear-factor mingles within our thoughts and mind, it can make us creatures of cowardice? I think our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. In most cases, we give other people permission to make us feel that we are inadequate. I’d like to give is this: nervous-brooding will not overcome fear but action will. Fear does not compliment anyone who has words of hope and genuine love for others. Let there be light… Oh! My God – what happens to me, happens to most of us, one time or the other: Are you saying this to me?! Expanding on the theme, I dug out some excellent quotes on: Overcoming Fear. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/oct2011/Quotes_on_Overcoming_Fear.php
The Prose-Piece: Did You Know? Contains interesting facts on the enlightened crusader for peace and justice – Mahatma Gandhi.
Another Prose-Piece worth reading. I must make a very special mention of Abdul Aziz Saud Al-Babtain Foundation which hosted a 3 day International Poetry Conference, “Poetry for Peaceful Co-existence”, in Dubai. What a treat it was! What a great gesture to have created this dynamic international foundation. For more information, kindly click on: http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/oct2011/Poetry_for_Peaceful_Co-existence.php
In the Poetry’s section, my most recent poem, ‘Event on Self-Celebration’, holds the aspect of fearlessness within me. Please, click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/oct2011/Event_in_Self-Celebration.php
Plus, learn about Dr. Qais Ghanem’s dreams and realization. He is the Creator-Presenter of the popular Canadian Radio Show – Dialogue with Diversity. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Dr_Qais_Ghanem_oct2011.php
And there is an added: Wow! This is about a beautiful 4 language Coffee Table Book by Mohammad Saleh Al-Gurg on Rubaiyat Of Omar Khayyam. Do Check out in the Book Review section by clicking:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/book_review/Coffee_Table_Book_by_Mohammad_Saleh_Al-Gurg.php
Wishing you all a Joy-filled Happy Diwali.
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
There hasn’t been much sleep for me. I am writing to you, after watching tv in excess, writing in excess, keeping awake past mid-nights – it is not easy to detach from the impact of 9/11 attacks. It is hard to recover from the news of the Delhi blast which killed 11 persons and injured 76. Even if it is not your own family, it can affect you. World-wide, acts of terrorism have reached notoriety to the point of no return. Plus, famine in Somalia. Floods in Pakistan. Habitual strife between Israel and Palestine. The ongoing struggles in Libya, Syria, Egypt, Yemen are equally depressing. And now Afghanistan, again.
What’s the cheering news? Jogiraj Sikidar’s interview is on in Different Dialogues of www.geetachhabra.com. He deserves admiration and draws instant interest for his forthcoming musical stage production in Dubai, under the banner of Malhaar. O Ganga: Echoes from the river of life, promises sumptuous magnificence, leading the audience through the richly textured Indian history – along the entire course of the river banks of the Ganga. To view it all, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Mr_Jogiraj_Sikidar_sep2011.php.
Any other good news? Yes! I’m deriving immeasurable satisfaction from the way my poems are getting published from time to time. This month, Me – The Puzzled Person, appeared in Dubai Al Thaqafiah. At the same time, five more poems have been brought out in print by Al Rafed, another literary journal. To view the poems, kindly click on: http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/published_work.php.
I love hearing from you. Thank you for your support.
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
There hasn’t been much sleep for me. I am writing to you, after watching tv in excess, writing in excess, keeping awake past mid-nights – it is not easy to detach from the impact of 9/11 attacks. It is hard to recover from the news of the Delhi blast which killed 11 persons and injured 76. Even if it is not your own family, it can affect you. World-wide, acts of terrorism have reached notoriety to the point of no return. Plus, famine in Somalia. Floods in Pakistan. Habitual strife between Israel and Palestine. The ongoing struggles in Libya, Syria, Egypt, Yemen are equally depressing. And now Afghanistan, again.
What’s the cheering news? Jogiraj Sikidar’s interview is on in Different Dialogues of www.geetachhabra.com. He deserves admiration and draws instant interest for his forthcoming musical stage production in Dubai, under the banner of Malhaar. O Ganga: Echoes from the river of life, promises sumptuous magnificence, leading the audience through the richly textured Indian history – along the entire course of the river banks of the Ganga. To view it all, kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/Mr_Jogiraj_Sikidar_sep2011.php.
Any other good news? Yes! I’m deriving immeasurable satisfaction from the way my poems are getting published from time to time. This month, Me – The Puzzled Person, appeared in Dubai Al Thaqafiah. At the same time, five more poems have been brought out in print by Al Rafed, another literary journal. To view the poems, kindly click on: http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/published_work.php.
I love hearing from you. Thank you for your support.
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I saw it coming. We saw it coming! The difference was simply one of duration. Necessity demands such examples when you drop everything around you and board the earliest flight out. That’s exactly what my husband and me did: to be with our son in Mumbai for his spine-surgery. Enroute from Dubai to Mumbai, we realized the enormity of the 3½ hours operation and therefore, the sensible thing to do was to remain calm and embrace optimism. I talked away my fears, letting God know that I never doubt Him. Looking back, I also think of the outstanding class of doctors and surgeons of Mumbai (India), on whom I have/and can rely in a manner which makes me courageous and enlightened. They are so skilled and reliable, you want to learn by heart, their noble names and voices. A further point, too is that these people from their own resources are helping those who deserve their help. I think, their souls are actually evolved – here is a special thing about some of the medical professionals – they cheer you in moments of adversity, calm you in the midst of storm. Bravo! To see an example – click for Dr. Rajesh Maniar’s (Joint Replacement Surgeon) Interview in the section of Different Dialogues appearing in July Issue 2011 of www.geetachhabra.com.
This issue’s section of Different Dialogues, we have in conversation – Ambassador of India to the UAE, Mr. Lokesh Mysore Kapanaiah. At each stage of the interview, Ambassador Lokesh emphasized that there is a common growing ground between India-UAE ties to thrive – because of their old-age historic friendship. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/M_K_Lokesh_aug2011.php
In the section of Poetry – I find it appropriate to present my meditative poems to match the holy month of Ramadan. And… because writing influences you to share honesty, it was impossible to suppress my inner-self in my Poem: Admission to Abject Loneliness. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/aug2011/Admission_to_Abject_Loneliness.php
If you have children, please help yourselves with the ‘one minute’ Prose-Piece: The Advanced Truth. I understand completely that you’ll be sure to understand! Only, don’t feed your denial… Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/aug2011/The_Advanced_Truth.php
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I saw it coming. We saw it coming! The difference was simply one of duration. Necessity demands such examples when you drop everything around you and board the earliest flight out. That’s exactly what my husband and me did: to be with our son in Mumbai for his spine-surgery. Enroute from Dubai to Mumbai, we realized the enormity of the 3½ hours operation and therefore, the sensible thing to do was to remain calm and embrace optimism. I talked away my fears, letting God know that I never doubt Him. Looking back, I also think of the outstanding class of doctors and surgeons of Mumbai (India), on whom I have/and can rely in a manner which makes me courageous and enlightened. They are so skilled and reliable, you want to learn by heart, their noble names and voices. A further point, too is that these people from their own resources are helping those who deserve their help. I think, their souls are actually evolved – here is a special thing about some of the medical professionals – they cheer you in moments of adversity, calm you in the midst of storm. Bravo! To see an example – click for Dr. Rajesh Maniar’s (Joint Replacement Surgeon) Interview in the section of Different Dialogues appearing in July Issue 2011 of www.geetachhabra.com.
This issue’s section of Different Dialogues, we have in conversation – Ambassador of India to the UAE, Mr. Lokesh Mysore Kapanaiah. At each stage of the interview, Ambassador Lokesh emphasized that there is a common growing ground between India-UAE ties to thrive – because of their old-age historic friendship. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/diff_dialogues/M_K_Lokesh_aug2011.php
In the section of Poetry – I find it appropriate to present my meditative poems to match the holy month of Ramadan. And… because writing influences you to share honesty, it was impossible to suppress my inner-self in my Poem: Admission to Abject Loneliness. Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/poetry/aug2011/Admission_to_Abject_Loneliness.php
If you have children, please help yourselves with the ‘one minute’ Prose-Piece: The Advanced Truth. I understand completely that you’ll be sure to understand! Only, don’t feed your denial… Kindly click on:
http://www.geetachhabra.com/prose/aug2011/The_Advanced_Truth.php
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
So true – Laughter is the best medicine.
While on a safari trip in a cannibal region, the traveller came across a cafe in a clearing in the remote jungle. The menu at the cafe advertised:
Fried Missionary for $ 5
Boiled Hunter for $ 10
Grilled Safari Guide for $ 15
Stuffed Politician for $ 80
When the traveller enquired why so much for the politician, the chef replied, “Have you tried to clean a politician?”
Do you think the so-called-self-styled-self-appointed-god-men are far behind in fooling the public? Carried to the excess of blind-faith they ridiculously enjoy what they want to enjoy. The country seems an empty place… like a desolate vessel… to millions of people: their quest for a ‘proper’ – aacha, changa guru, never seems to end. In this issue, my Prose-Piece based on a true story – god-men versus man, re-opens my thoughts on this subject.
Then there are valiant individuals like Dr. Rajesh Maniar. The stouthearted Joint Replacement Surgeon has adequate influence to ‘influence’ many with his own great example. Do check out his interview in Different Dialogues in the current issue.
Now on a nostalgic vein, I’ve just this moment returned from reading heaps of Indian newspapers which dutifully rest on my writing desk. I always feel a nostalgia catching up with Mumbai and India. By this nostalgia, I’ve dug out Monsoon-Poems for this month, written by me during my steady association with my mentor, the late Nissim Ezekiel. In those years, the old bard and me would sit frequently in a particular café just across the PEN centre. He would sip a hot drink, relish Shrikhand (sweet curd). I would watch him and the rain pouring outside.
I dedicate with gratitude the 12th issue of www.geetachhabra.com to the Poet-Laureate Nissim Ezekiel who was my guide and critic.
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
So true – Laughter is the best medicine.
While on a safari trip in a cannibal region, the traveller came across a cafe in a clearing in the remote jungle. The menu at the cafe advertised:
Fried Missionary for $ 5
Boiled Hunter for $ 10
Grilled Safari Guide for $ 15
Stuffed Politician for $ 80
When the traveller enquired why so much for the politician, the chef replied, “Have you tried to clean a politician?”
Do you think the so-called-self-styled-self-appointed-god-men are far behind in fooling the public? Carried to the excess of blind-faith they ridiculously enjoy what they want to enjoy. The country seems an empty place… like a desolate vessel… to millions of people: their quest for a ‘proper’ – aacha, changa guru, never seems to end. In this issue, my Prose-Piece based on a true story – god-men versus man, re-opens my thoughts on this subject.
Then there are valiant individuals like Dr. Rajesh Maniar. The stouthearted Joint Replacement Surgeon has adequate influence to ‘influence’ many with his own great example. Do check out his interview in Different Dialogues in the current issue.
Now on a nostalgic vein, I’ve just this moment returned from reading heaps of Indian newspapers which dutifully rest on my writing desk. I always feel a nostalgia catching up with Mumbai and India. By this nostalgia, I’ve dug out Monsoon-Poems for this month, written by me during my steady association with my mentor, the late Nissim Ezekiel. In those years, the old bard and me would sit frequently in a particular café just across the PEN centre. He would sip a hot drink, relish Shrikhand (sweet curd). I would watch him and the rain pouring outside.
I dedicate with gratitude the 12th issue of www.geetachhabra.com to the Poet-Laureate Nissim Ezekiel who was my guide and critic.
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
The moment your emails arrive, I am definitely in the zone: high. There is a steady stream of flowing ideas from readers and the capacity of connection; even the shortest comment from a reader is of persistent value to me. Viewers, I judge my work through you. The ‘new high’ also comes from the fact that the domain of www.geetachhabra.com is offering me exciting destinations. For example, Dr. Qais Ghanem, award winning creator and host of the popular weekly Canadian Radio Show — Dialogue with Diversity invited me as a guest for his one hour Ottawa-based show on Tuesday, 17th May 2011, after interviewing me earlier, in Dubai. Plus, the veteran has posted on his website, my poem: The Way I Feel. To hear my radio-show discussion with Dr. Qais Ghanem, please click on:
As this goes into print, I am thinking of things that drive me to immense disturbance. Everyday, I see newspapers showing the carnage of death and the continuing defying attitude of ruthless dictators. To lead a transition to ‘get out’ – just look at the blood baths of innocent people. Shame. And that’s not all. The fear coming for travelling. The dread coming for visiting a holy place. The doubtful nature of unrest and hatred – striking where and when? Bad politics is growing faster than any occupation. Moral values are having the time in the pits – whose to draw the line between a rape and consensual-what-ever. It is all raving mental.
In the same moments, my mind reflects on Japan and how it faces the staggering challenges of the recent earthquakes and tsunami. I shudder at the thought of nuclear reactors breaking down in other countries, including, India. A perfect springboard of disasters on an unimaginable scale – God forbid that, please, please.
How do you feel about all this?
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
The moment your emails arrive, I am definitely in the zone: high. There is a steady stream of flowing ideas from readers and the capacity of connection; even the shortest comment from a reader is of persistent value to me. Viewers, I judge my work through you. The ‘new high’ also comes from the fact that the domain of www.geetachhabra.com is offering me exciting destinations. For example, Dr. Qais Ghanem, award winning creator and host of the popular weekly Canadian Radio Show — Dialogue with Diversity invited me as a guest for his one hour Ottawa-based show on Tuesday, 17th May 2011, after interviewing me earlier, in Dubai. Plus, the veteran has posted on his website, my poem: The Way I Feel. To hear my radio-show discussion with Dr. Qais Ghanem, please click on:
http://www.dialoguewithdiversity.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=9367:dwd-radio-show-2011-05-11-interview-with-geeta-chhabra-in-dubai&catid=54:radio&Itemid=82
As this goes into print, I am thinking of things that drive me to immense disturbance. Everyday, I see newspapers showing the carnage of death and the continuing defying attitude of ruthless dictators. To lead a transition to ‘get out’ – just look at the blood baths of innocent people. Shame. And that’s not all. The fear coming for travelling. The dread coming for visiting a holy place. The doubtful nature of unrest and hatred – striking where and when? Bad politics is growing faster than any occupation. Moral values are having the time in the pits – whose to draw the line between a rape and consensual-what-ever. It is all raving mental.
In the same moments, my mind reflects on Japan and how it faces the staggering challenges of the recent earthquakes and tsunami. I shudder at the thought of nuclear reactors breaking down in other countries, including, India. A perfect springboard of disasters on an unimaginable scale – God forbid that, please, please.
How do you feel about all this?
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Where your support began, my success continues! From time to time, my poems in English have been selected for publication in leading Arabic newspapers and journals. On 12th May 2011, Al Ittihad brought out five of my poems in its Cultural Supplement. I am indebted to the eminent Emarati poet/translator Dr. Shihab Ghanem for his continuous wholehearted effort in translating my poems. A huge thanks is also due to the various literary experts for considering my work declaration-worthy for their own readers.
And more! The two months, I was in Mumbai – from there I took off for Coonoor, twice. Conspicuously, both the trips made it to a host of wondrous purposes. Family-bonding. Eating. Praying. Loving the Todas! The stout-hearted tribals of the Nilgiri Hills (South India) have dwindled to a margin of less than two thousand people – almost on their way to rapid insignificance. Fairly, I have given a pledge to the Todas and myself to return to their spectacular region and brand the trail of our friendship, further.
Now, on the most somber note, let’s look at the way our world is generally going about with increased turmoil and vengeance. Osama Bin Laden is dead for all the discordant reasons and conclusions. On the specifics, the most purposeful task is to spread awareness amongst us that none of us should look at any religion politically. That is when the picture goes wrong and dangerous. By looking politically at others’ religions, we become intolerant. Intolerance is the muddled monstrous seed-capital of extremism. God’s laws do not subscribe to exploiting, harming, killing, bombing innocent people. Let’s muster our thoughts and accumulate the wisdom of well-bred common sense – all of which will prevent our societies from collapsing.
On the other hand, a well-suited example of the shiny extent is where people ‘feel’ socially responsible to give back to society, particularly, to the less fortunate. Quoted to identify themselves with progress, they seek absolute satisfaction in being a part of any journey where they can make a dutiful change happen. For example, Mr. Ratan Tata on Monday, 16th May, 2011 opened the doors in Kolkata (India) to the Tata Medical Centre, a Rs. 350 crore not-for-profit worldclass Cancer Hospital.
Supporting the benevolent cause, a film made for the Tata Group, deserves a mention, too. The film has already gone on air, across 30 television channels all over India and parts of Asia. Translated from English to Hindi and seven other Indian regional languages, the irresistibly moving film recounts in point of fact the journey of a 9 year old girl, Koel Dutta, diagnosed with Leukemia.
Cheers to the film-makers – my daughter, Vibha Bakshi, Geeta Gopalakrishnan and Abhishek Yamsanwar.
Kindly click on: http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/published_work.php to view my 5 poems which have been recently published in Al Ittihad on May 12, 2011.
Kindly click on: http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/photo_news.php to view photographs of Toda’s.
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Where your support began, my success continues! From time to time, my poems in English have been selected for publication in leading Arabic newspapers and journals. On 12th May 2011, Al Ittihad brought out five of my poems in its Cultural Supplement. I am indebted to the eminent Emarati poet/translator Dr. Shihab Ghanem for his continuous wholehearted effort in translating my poems. A huge thanks is also due to the various literary experts for considering my work declaration-worthy for their own readers.
And more! The two months, I was in Mumbai – from there I took off for Coonoor, twice. Conspicuously, both the trips made it to a host of wondrous purposes. Family-bonding. Eating. Praying. Loving the Todas! The stout-hearted tribals of the Nilgiri Hills (South India) have dwindled to a margin of less than two thousand people – almost on their way to rapid insignificance. Fairly, I have given a pledge to the Todas and myself to return to their spectacular region and brand the trail of our friendship, further.
Now, on the most somber note, let’s look at the way our world is generally going about with increased turmoil and vengeance. Osama Bin Laden is dead for all the discordant reasons and conclusions. On the specifics, the most purposeful task is to spread awareness amongst us that none of us should look at any religion politically. That is when the picture goes wrong and dangerous. By looking politically at others’ religions, we become intolerant. Intolerance is the muddled monstrous seed-capital of extremism. God’s laws do not subscribe to exploiting, harming, killing, bombing innocent people. Let’s muster our thoughts and accumulate the wisdom of well-bred common sense – all of which will prevent our societies from collapsing.
On the other hand, a well-suited example of the shiny extent is where people ‘feel’ socially responsible to give back to society, particularly, to the less fortunate. Quoted to identify themselves with progress, they seek absolute satisfaction in being a part of any journey where they can make a dutiful change happen. For example, Mr. Ratan Tata on Monday, 16th May, 2011 opened the doors in Kolkata (India) to the Tata Medical Centre, a Rs. 350 crore not-for-profit worldclass Cancer Hospital.
Supporting the benevolent cause, a film made for the Tata Group, deserves a mention, too. The film has already gone on air, across 30 television channels all over India and parts of Asia. Translated from English to Hindi and seven other Indian regional languages, the irresistibly moving film recounts in point of fact the journey of a 9 year old girl, Koel Dutta, diagnosed with Leukemia.
Cheers to the film-makers – my daughter, Vibha Bakshi, Geeta Gopalakrishnan and Abhishek Yamsanwar.
Kindly click on: http://www.geetachhabra.com/aboutgc/published_work.php to view my 5 poems which have been recently published in Al Ittihad on May 12, 2011.
Kindly click on: http://www.geetachhabra.com/photo_news/photo_news.php to view photographs of Toda’s.
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Thanks for your congratulatory messages on my award-winning last month, plus, your stirring response towards my poems on Gaddafi and the Libyan situation. Even in the simplest matching, you have shown solidarity in exactly the same way as my poems – Hai Hai Gadaffi and The Way I Feel, have expressed in the March Issue. I am inclined to believe strongly that basically we all desire peace and harmony; and this to a large extent is possible if we oblige ourselves in believing that each one of us can make a lot happen. The fact is the man’s mind is a miracle! In the horrific face of tsunamis, earthquakes, growing civil strife around the world – we must not be downhearted. At the fastest possible way, with one good act per day, (no matter how big or tiny it is) we ought to make a difference and that by itself is a miracle-happening! Each of us is important in contributing for world’s peace and harmony.
Now, I must get to the point of cricket. Yes, my India, my beloved India – I embrace you and salute to our greatest team for bringing victory with the ICC World Cup. Bravo! Anna Hazare… Sir! Keep up with what you are trying to achieve in order to eradicate corruption that is responsible in destroying India’s greatness. Inspire us all to become Anna Hazare!
And, are you looking for a terrific vacation in India? I must share the best-possible-most-recent-experience! Coonoor and Ooty located in the Nilgiri Hills (South India) are unbelievable. You will wholly believe why the region (7,500 ft above sea level) is considered as the ‘Queen of Hills’. In this Issue, I present my poetic thoughts exclusively devoted to this region. As a vacationer, among other highlights of highlights – Todas, the ancient tribals of the blue-mountain Nilgiris definitely hold a special place in my heart.
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Thanks for your congratulatory messages on my award-winning last month, plus, your stirring response towards my poems on Gaddafi and the Libyan situation. Even in the simplest matching, you have shown solidarity in exactly the same way as my poems – Hai Hai Gadaffi and The Way I Feel, have expressed in the March Issue. I am inclined to believe strongly that basically we all desire peace and harmony; and this to a large extent is possible if we oblige ourselves in believing that each one of us can make a lot happen. The fact is the man’s mind is a miracle! In the horrific face of tsunamis, earthquakes, growing civil strife around the world – we must not be downhearted. At the fastest possible way, with one good act per day, (no matter how big or tiny it is) we ought to make a difference and that by itself is a miracle-happening! Each of us is important in contributing for world’s peace and harmony.
Now, I must get to the point of cricket. Yes, my India, my beloved India – I embrace you and salute to our greatest team for bringing victory with the ICC World Cup. Bravo! Anna Hazare… Sir! Keep up with what you are trying to achieve in order to eradicate corruption that is responsible in destroying India’s greatness. Inspire us all to become Anna Hazare!
And, are you looking for a terrific vacation in India? I must share the best-possible-most-recent-experience! Coonoor and Ooty located in the Nilgiri Hills (South India) are unbelievable. You will wholly believe why the region (7,500 ft above sea level) is considered as the ‘Queen of Hills’. In this Issue, I present my poetic thoughts exclusively devoted to this region. As a vacationer, among other highlights of highlights – Todas, the ancient tribals of the blue-mountain Nilgiris definitely hold a special place in my heart.
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
You are my true mascots! I could not have been a recipient of the Award for Women of Excellence in Dubai, on International Women’s Day of 8th March, 2011 – without your conspicuous faith in what I am trying to achieve with a strength of purpose. I dedicate this award to my readers and my family.
In the midst of my exuberance, not far wide of the mark, the crisis of the civil strife in Libya has also terrified me. As anything else, to a normal person, the sight of the dead and dying is a great deal of grief. Death is one thing coming in the end for all of us. But when innocent people (women and children included) are literally massacred by the greed-filled sick nature of a tyrant-dictator, then, you are continually being drawn to the proof that we are still living in dark ages. How much scope there is to ponder on Libya’s horrific situation!
If we take a true view of the matter – it is something so severely shameful and sickening. Those wounded and scattered so widely in front of us – groaning or with never a sigh – hoarded in our TV screens and going down writing the unending history of evil. Oh, it hurts to no end. In this month's issue — my latest poems pronounce my mood of grief and hopelessness. How do you feel?
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
You are my true mascots! I could not have been a recipient of the Award for Women of Excellence in Dubai, on International Women’s Day of 8th March, 2011 – without your conspicuous faith in what I am trying to achieve with a strength of purpose. I dedicate this award to my readers and my family.
In the midst of my exuberance, not far wide of the mark, the crisis of the civil strife in Libya has also terrified me. As anything else, to a normal person, the sight of the dead and dying is a great deal of grief. Death is one thing coming in the end for all of us. But when innocent people (women and children included) are literally massacred by the greed-filled sick nature of a tyrant-dictator, then, you are continually being drawn to the proof that we are still living in dark ages. How much scope there is to ponder on Libya’s horrific situation!
If we take a true view of the matter – it is something so severely shameful and sickening. Those wounded and scattered so widely in front of us – groaning or with never a sigh – hoarded in our TV screens and going down writing the unending history of evil. Oh, it hurts to no end. In this month's issue — my latest poems pronounce my mood of grief and hopelessness. How do you feel?
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I came back to Dubai from Mumbai with the fondest remembrance commemorating a brand new knee joint replacement for my husband! India has a very productive history of medical science. In that direction, India possesses today, able world-class doctors. I think, they are potentially so clever and correct with their diagnosis and they are certainly not ‘mechanically’ depending on machines! This difference makes them go straight to the apt root of the disease and the tests required for the patient.
However, as India is developing, the boon of excellent doctors and hospitals extends to people who are in a high standard of living. Having said that, the development of medical tourism in India is a key step for other developments to take place. It is an easy thing to measure the costs of a major surgery in India versus with other countries of the world. The comparative figures show that India is very reliable and cheap. The real story of medical tourism has not begun yet in India. This whole business of remedy and restoration for the high-end members of society will finally launch a dynamic sphere of over-all-progress – provided the medical fraternity finds more time to strategies how it can show its successful position to the outside world.
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I came back to Dubai from Mumbai with the fondest remembrance commemorating a brand new knee joint replacement for my husband! India has a very productive history of medical science. In that direction, India possesses today, able world-class doctors. I think, they are potentially so clever and correct with their diagnosis and they are certainly not ‘mechanically’ depending on machines! This difference makes them go straight to the apt root of the disease and the tests required for the patient.
However, as India is developing, the boon of excellent doctors and hospitals extends to people who are in a high standard of living. Having said that, the development of medical tourism in India is a key step for other developments to take place. It is an easy thing to measure the costs of a major surgery in India versus with other countries of the world. The comparative figures show that India is very reliable and cheap. The real story of medical tourism has not begun yet in India. This whole business of remedy and restoration for the high-end members of society will finally launch a dynamic sphere of over-all-progress – provided the medical fraternity finds more time to strategies how it can show its successful position to the outside world.
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Just as the law of gravitation is that it pulls us to the earth – the law of communication is where through ‘inter-action’, we allow higher vibrations to flow in. One of the purposes of establishing www.geetachhabra.com has been to emerge as a platform to enable readers to write and say about an experience or a view-point. Now spreading over 250 pages, www.geetachhabra.com brings out its sixth issue with a new remodeled look reporting easier, swifter navigation. Where it all begins with the New Year 2011 is to turn Viewers’ Comments (You said it) into Viewers’ Corner. Carrying the future forward, saunter into Viewers’ Corner and enjoy the reason to express yourself! The content sent by you can be up to 200 words.
It is the encouragement of my friends and loved ones that has worked for me to bring out the sixth issue of www.geetachhabra.com. To a large extent, I am guided by their wisdom. In respect to line of work, my poem: By The Sheikh Zayed Road, was published in the reputed Arabic newspaper, Al Bayan on 20th December 2010. The translation has been carried out by the eminent poet and translator, Dr. Shihab Ghanem.
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Just as the law of gravitation is that it pulls us to the earth – the law of communication is where through ‘inter-action’, we allow higher vibrations to flow in. One of the purposes of establishing www.geetachhabra.com has been to emerge as a platform to enable readers to write and say about an experience or a view-point. Now spreading over 250 pages, www.geetachhabra.com brings out its sixth issue with a new remodeled look reporting easier, swifter navigation. Where it all begins with the New Year 2011 is to turn Viewers’ Comments (You said it) into Viewers’ Corner. Carrying the future forward, saunter into Viewers’ Corner and enjoy the reason to express yourself! The content sent by you can be up to 200 words.
It is the encouragement of my friends and loved ones that has worked for me to bring out the sixth issue of www.geetachhabra.com. To a large extent, I am guided by their wisdom. In respect to line of work, my poem: By The Sheikh Zayed Road, was published in the reputed Arabic newspaper, Al Bayan on 20th December 2010. The translation has been carried out by the eminent poet and translator, Dr. Shihab Ghanem.
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Next to this year, I can see the view of a new year ascending. The spreading tree of time is noteworthy; it ensures my imagination to tour around the order of my 'journeys' which form the realities of my life. Subsequently, the future will take off – led by the prosperity of victories, lessons learnt, challenges ahead. Of course, every year crops up with the unexpected… neither planned by you or me – that’s why it is the unexpected! All of this happens in a span or a spur but it happens to each of us; some of it we relish and some we pray it will never ring again.
Every now and again, sweet history tends to extend in front of me the spacious pictures of my childhood and formative years. From her relaxing moments of knitting, pickling, singing – I learnt from the wise words of my mother many things said for my future and I am so glad I could see the worth in her guidance. Year after year, what worked so well between my dear parents and myself was that I was blessed in my realization that both of them had better answers for every query of mine. I listened to them with an open mind because I knew they had already taken many orders from their circumstances. From that basic understanding, the fortunes of my thought process grew and flourished to make me respect the law of order and good governance; plus, I became a clear courageous thinker through the principle of respecting my elders. Amongst the best long lasting gifts I have received for myself in life is to cherish the memory of both my mother and father for every act – no matter how big or small it was to raise me to face hurdles or overcome awkward situations in my life.
With this beautiful memorial note in seeking blessings from God, I wish you all – A Very Happy New Year of 2011.
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Next to this year, I can see the view of a new year ascending. The spreading tree of time is noteworthy; it ensures my imagination to tour around the order of my 'journeys' which form the realities of my life. Subsequently, the future will take off – led by the prosperity of victories, lessons learnt, challenges ahead. Of course, every year crops up with the unexpected… neither planned by you or me – that’s why it is the unexpected! All of this happens in a span or a spur but it happens to each of us; some of it we relish and some we pray it will never ring again.
Every now and again, sweet history tends to extend in front of me the spacious pictures of my childhood and formative years. From her relaxing moments of knitting, pickling, singing – I learnt from the wise words of my mother many things said for my future and I am so glad I could see the worth in her guidance. Year after year, what worked so well between my dear parents and myself was that I was blessed in my realization that both of them had better answers for every query of mine. I listened to them with an open mind because I knew they had already taken many orders from their circumstances. From that basic understanding, the fortunes of my thought process grew and flourished to make me respect the law of order and good governance; plus, I became a clear courageous thinker through the principle of respecting my elders. Amongst the best long lasting gifts I have received for myself in life is to cherish the memory of both my mother and father for every act – no matter how big or small it was to raise me to face hurdles or overcome awkward situations in my life.
With this beautiful memorial note in seeking blessings from God, I wish you all – A Very Happy New Year of 2011.
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Last month when I was in Delhi, Delhi had me on the palm of its hand. The city seemed as something else. I know the passion of the Commonwealth Games taking place there had everything to do with the Delhi I saw after a gap of two years. For me, the moving history of the ancient capital perpetually plays a trick that whenever I go to the Red Fort or Hamayun’s mausoleum, I feel like discovering the monuments all over again. Word to word, I wish the sagas to reappear and speak to me… and they do! I conjure so easily the mingled scenes of those times: a lone shepherd boy grazing his goats near the Qutub Minar; Mirza Ghalib converting his every adversary into a lamenting verse! Fierce battles of winning formulas on the endless wild tracts of rubble and dust; gardens and orchards being laid out for the royal masters. If I go on, I can also tell you that some of the relics discovered in and around Delhi go beyond the period of the sixth century BC.
The dated era is left behind. Now, the quick-growing highways, the flyovers, the stadiums – not to forget the plush international airport: all of this has not only
given a new concept to the committed spaces – they are the stamping evidence that we can treat ourselves with a newer confidence in the world of today. Definitely, in parts, the landmark erections literally educate us on the status of our advancement. All the more reason that the concerned authorities are not even slightly negligible in maintaining our ‘modern monuments’.
On the front of Commonwealth Games, it is encouraging to observe the medal-score. At the 1982 Commonwealth Games in Brisbane, Australia, India received a paltry number of 16 medals. At the 2010 event in Delhi, India, the Indian participants brought for their country a total of 101 medals. I am sticking to the point that our national strength is inching up more and more. Altogether, I know, this is not a tall claim to make when you compare other perimeters. I am aware that all this may not set yardsticks to measure the overall progress. But, still, you have to make peace somewhere.
Happy Diwali!
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Last month when I was in Delhi, Delhi had me on the palm of its hand. The city seemed as something else. I know the passion of the Commonwealth Games taking place there had everything to do with the Delhi I saw after a gap of two years. For me, the moving history of the ancient capital perpetually plays a trick that whenever I go to the Red Fort or Hamayun’s mausoleum, I feel like discovering the monuments all over again. Word to word, I wish the sagas to reappear and speak to me… and they do! I conjure so easily the mingled scenes of those times: a lone shepherd boy grazing his goats near the Qutub Minar; Mirza Ghalib converting his every adversary into a lamenting verse! Fierce battles of winning formulas on the endless wild tracts of rubble and dust; gardens and orchards being laid out for the royal masters. If I go on, I can also tell you that some of the relics discovered in and around Delhi go beyond the period of the sixth century BC.
The dated era is left behind. Now, the quick-growing highways, the flyovers, the stadiums – not to forget the plush international airport: all of this has not only
given a new concept to the committed spaces – they are the stamping evidence that we can treat ourselves with a newer confidence in the world of today. Definitely, in parts, the landmark erections literally educate us on the status of our advancement. All the more reason that the concerned authorities are not even slightly negligible in maintaining our ‘modern monuments’.
On the front of Commonwealth Games, it is encouraging to observe the medal-score. At the 1982 Commonwealth Games in Brisbane, Australia, India received a paltry number of 16 medals. At the 2010 event in Delhi, India, the Indian participants brought for their country a total of 101 medals. I am sticking to the point that our national strength is inching up more and more. Altogether, I know, this is not a tall claim to make when you compare other perimeters. I am aware that all this may not set yardsticks to measure the overall progress. But, still, you have to make peace somewhere.
Happy Diwali!
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
For a well-founded purpose – a common purpose, I feel decidedly happy as I bring out the monthly issue of my Site / Blog and this is the third issue.
I think, sometimes, moving from our structured regimes to easier tones of finding out what can make us hum or click – it’s like achieving a solid degree from a prime university. The discovery itself, can astonishingly bring with open arms the best in us. All these years later, you realize the boundless energy sitting ‘inside’ you; and the majority of us possess this energy. It is God-given. Folks with another belief may attribute it to the gene pool. One way or the other, as I consider always: More vital to all of us is to be heard and understood. This, in an intricate sense, signifies our whole existence. Does it not?
Without a doubt, the biggest, the most important story of our lives is: the story of our very own lives. To me: about my life. To you: about your life. Yet. Yet. Yet. We are touched, even influenced in varying degrees, by those who lead us by their shining examples. Often, in a unique fascinating way, we take a meaningful turn: eliciting inspiration from their distinct struggles and success.
To seek the meaning of success is such a personal matter. We sometimes put ourselves in a cage by measuring success with money and fame, alone. I feel, every act performed with sincerity and applied-wisdom is supreme success. To remain well-disposed and calm in general is a sign of great success. To acknowledge the meaning of gratitude is a form of success. Going a step further: drawing a positive line between work and leisure is also one of the meanings of success. Doing the best that we can do in our given circumstances is a beautiful facet of success, too.
Readers, the incoming e-mails add to the feeling that more people are visiting my Site / Blog which was inaugurated in August 2010. Because in all reality, each and every reader’s comment is dear to my heart, therefore, all the more, I am presenting them in focused small numbers over quantity. The sense, not to miss out on any reader’s view will be very much maintained. Within the future issues, I will try methodically to cover all the incoming messages. Many thanks for your spontaneous response.
Poetry-wise, From My Sanctum, They and Us, The Colour Green, Star Performers, and Hidden Desires (of August Issue) received a popular direction of encouraging nods and so did the Prose-Pieces, The Balancing Act, and On: Sweet Angels of God. The Poems ODD FACTS, Ramadan Kareem and Prose-Pieces, FIX IT, The Playing Band (of September Issue), drew attention of readers. In accordance with the flow of the readers' choice and my mood, I have selected the new content for the October Issue.
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
For a well-founded purpose – a common purpose, I feel decidedly happy as I bring out the monthly issue of my Site / Blog and this is the third issue.
I think, sometimes, moving from our structured regimes to easier tones of finding out what can make us hum or click – it’s like achieving a solid degree from a prime university. The discovery itself, can astonishingly bring with open arms the best in us. All these years later, you realize the boundless energy sitting ‘inside’ you; and the majority of us possess this energy. It is God-given. Folks with another belief may attribute it to the gene pool. One way or the other, as I consider always: More vital to all of us is to be heard and understood. This, in an intricate sense, signifies our whole existence. Does it not?
Without a doubt, the biggest, the most important story of our lives is: the story of our very own lives. To me: about my life. To you: about your life. Yet. Yet. Yet. We are touched, even influenced in varying degrees, by those who lead us by their shining examples. Often, in a unique fascinating way, we take a meaningful turn: eliciting inspiration from their distinct struggles and success.
To seek the meaning of success is such a personal matter. We sometimes put ourselves in a cage by measuring success with money and fame, alone. I feel, every act performed with sincerity and applied-wisdom is supreme success. To remain well-disposed and calm in general is a sign of great success. To acknowledge the meaning of gratitude is a form of success. Going a step further: drawing a positive line between work and leisure is also one of the meanings of success. Doing the best that we can do in our given circumstances is a beautiful facet of success, too.
Readers, the incoming e-mails add to the feeling that more people are visiting my Site / Blog which was inaugurated in August 2010. Because in all reality, each and every reader’s comment is dear to my heart, therefore, all the more, I am presenting them in focused small numbers over quantity. The sense, not to miss out on any reader’s view will be very much maintained. Within the future issues, I will try methodically to cover all the incoming messages. Many thanks for your spontaneous response.
Poetry-wise, From My Sanctum, They and Us, The Colour Green, Star Performers, and Hidden Desires (of August Issue) received a popular direction of encouraging nods and so did the Prose-Pieces, The Balancing Act, and On: Sweet Angels of God. The Poems ODD FACTS, Ramadan Kareem and Prose-Pieces, FIX IT, The Playing Band (of September Issue), drew attention of readers. In accordance with the flow of the readers' choice and my mood, I have selected the new content for the October Issue.
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Greetings from Dubai. As I write, this region is immaculately set in the essence of the holy month. Guided by the ethics of Ramadan, this period of fasting is about self-discipline, brotherhood, charity. For our human weaknesses, this is the time to go ‘inwards’, without a trace of pretentiousness. Peace is absolutely on the agenda. Peace! Peace! Peace!
Yet, sadly, or shall I say, most tragically, our entire planet is in the trappings of unrest, hugely from wars and oppression. Within these wars, the innocents: suffer; the respectable leaders are frustrated. In various dimensions, wars bring about battles among individuals. Nation by nation, through the evildoing of war, midpoint, progress comes to a screeching halt; famines, war-related-diseases (both physical and mental) erupt. The present month should hold a special place in our hearts to reflect where the rules of civilization have been broken constantly.
World War I and World War II are not the only horrific calculations of death toll. Look into the past and present of each continent. The totals resting in our archives are shameful, grotesque. How many million and millions have perished directly and indirectly through acts of wars: their loss reveals the darkest chapters in our lives. And it does not finish off here. The major on-going-massacres continue within the families who have lost a father, a brother, a husband, a darling member.
Pertaining to the subject of wars: Conflict’s name? Name of the countries? Victorious Parties (if at all relevant)? Defeated Parties, (if at all relevant)? Names of Wars (is it important)? My dear readers, you will agree that the last 100 years can cite a mammoth library to show the details; rendering those gory statistics is impossible to cover in this letter. What’s happened in that time is the wholesale devastation of our precious societies.
Peace should absolutely be on our agenda. Peace. Peace. Peace. To all, Ramadan Kareem.
In collaboration with my reflections and responsibility, I present a few poems on war and two in the form of a prayer. For viewing these poems please click on: Poetry Collection - September 2010
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
Greetings from Dubai. As I write, this region is immaculately set in the essence of the holy month. Guided by the ethics of Ramadan, this period of fasting is about self-discipline, brotherhood, charity. For our human weaknesses, this is the time to go ‘inwards’, without a trace of pretentiousness. Peace is absolutely on the agenda. Peace! Peace! Peace!
Yet, sadly, or shall I say, most tragically, our entire planet is in the trappings of unrest, hugely from wars and oppression. Within these wars, the innocents: suffer; the respectable leaders are frustrated. In various dimensions, wars bring about battles among individuals. Nation by nation, through the evildoing of war, midpoint, progress comes to a screeching halt; famines, war-related-diseases (both physical and mental) erupt. The present month should hold a special place in our hearts to reflect where the rules of civilization have been broken constantly.
World War I and World War II are not the only horrific calculations of death toll. Look into the past and present of each continent. The totals resting in our archives are shameful, grotesque. How many million and millions have perished directly and indirectly through acts of wars: their loss reveals the darkest chapters in our lives. And it does not finish off here. The major on-going-massacres continue within the families who have lost a father, a brother, a husband, a darling member.
Pertaining to the subject of wars: Conflict’s name? Name of the countries? Victorious Parties (if at all relevant)? Defeated Parties, (if at all relevant)? Names of Wars (is it important)? My dear readers, you will agree that the last 100 years can cite a mammoth library to show the details; rendering those gory statistics is impossible to cover in this letter. What’s happened in that time is the wholesale devastation of our precious societies.
Peace should absolutely be on our agenda. Peace. Peace. Peace. To all, Ramadan Kareem.
In collaboration with my reflections and responsibility, I present a few poems on war and two in the form of a prayer. For viewing these poems please click on: Poetry Collection - September 2010
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
My dear Readers,
I do remember having got a positive reaction from my friends when I talked of putting some of my poems and prose-pieces on the internet. In an interview, my mentor Nissim Ezekiel said that the moment you write a poem or a critical piece, you look for outlets. I think it is absolutely true. On this specific level, I will also say that if it is tough enough writing, it is even tougher to get a suitable audience. Though I am not clear about my influences on people, the idea of reaching out to others interested me to develop my own exclusive site. I hope the site will capture viewers and they on their part might give a stamp of approval, or unfavourable comments; reconsidering how the perimeters could work, I am absorbed in my writing more than before.
The final outcome of the present, only the future can show. It is one thing to ‘think’ of some things and it is another thing to just go and them! To quote my late mentor again, the poet in his exact words at an interview in 1986 stated: to crave for it is self-defeating and I can’t stand self-defeating attitudes, from others or myself. I feel I must take the responsibility and say that I did my best in my circumstances.
My dear friends, that’s what I am trying to do through my site.
Geeta Chhabra
Glossary.
Nissim Ezekiel — Considered as the father of post-independence Indian verse in English, Nissim Ezekiel played centre-stage in inaugurating the Modernist revolution in Indian poetry in English. As a poet, critic, editor, teacher, political commentator, he has had a lasting influence on Indian literature in English. He passed away on 9th January 2004, at the age of 79.
My dear Readers,
I do remember having got a positive reaction from my friends when I talked of putting some of my poems and prose-pieces on the internet. In an interview, my mentor Nissim Ezekiel said that the moment you write a poem or a critical piece, you look for outlets. I think it is absolutely true. On this specific level, I will also say that if it is tough enough writing, it is even tougher to get a suitable audience. Though I am not clear about my influences on people, the idea of reaching out to others interested me to develop my own exclusive site. I hope the site will capture viewers and they on their part might give a stamp of approval, or unfavourable comments; reconsidering how the perimeters could work, I am absorbed in my writing more than before.
The final outcome of the present, only the future can show. It is one thing to ‘think’ of some things and it is another thing to just go and them! To quote my late mentor again, the poet in his exact words at an interview in 1986 stated: to crave for it is self-defeating and I can’t stand self-defeating attitudes, from others or myself. I feel I must take the responsibility and say that I did my best in my circumstances.
My dear friends, that’s what I am trying to do through my site.
Warm regards,
Geeta Chhabra
Glossary.
Nissim Ezekiel — Considered as the father of post-independence Indian verse in English, Nissim Ezekiel played centre-stage in inaugurating the Modernist revolution in Indian poetry in English. As a poet, critic, editor, teacher, political commentator, he has had a lasting influence on Indian literature in English. He passed away on 9th January 2004, at the age of 79.