#lockdown in maharashtra

[wanderingthedesertalone]

Corona Alone a Diary Revisited: An American’s Experience of the Covid Lockdown in Mumbai 

Lockdown In Retrospect

Mediocre Graces: In any case, by the end of the Pandemic, I had somewhat been restored to good graces, not that I was ever greeted in Anand Nagar(8) at least with the Atithi Devo Bhava(11) spirit, I got on the good side of the local gang and befriended a Muslim woman who sells fish in a roadside stall, but it was too late, lonesomeness and faithlessness in humanity had grabbed a hold of me. Sadly, I am no longer able to speak to the fish merchant. She married, her husband is conservative and doesn’t allow her to speak to men.

On Lonesomeness: It’s worth noting that many endured the Corona epidemic in complete isolation. According to The Wall Street Journal, 35.7 million Americans, including myself, lived alone (Byron) around the time of writing the first journal entry. However, not just did I live alone, I was an expat, I lived alone in Mumbai, India. Regardless of the negative stigma that goes along with living alone, solitude never bothered me, in fact, ever since I was divorced, in 2012, I’ve preferred to be alone. Besides, I could always grab a cup of coffee and talk to strangers, I have the gift of gab when needed, but the double-whammy of isolation and becoming a pariah had pushed me to the brink of insanity. I’ve come to believe that those things that don’t kill us make us weaker and since the Covid outbreak I’ve become impatient, nervous and have lost faith in humanity, as I’ve already said.

Too Much Fluff: In all, the NPR article is woefully misguided and simply tried to make a buck off of Covid lockdowns, like so many other news outlets were doing at the time. A better story would’ve been on those who live alone before the Pandemic, whether for reason of mental health, a willful solitude or social ineptitude, that chronicled each persons’ descent into madness; I despise fluff journalism, maybe because it reminds me of the way that Bollywood paints India as an endless serene landscape of humorous follies in love that can easily be overcome when it’s something else all together, not easily, or that I would like to, put into words. This isn’t just fluff, there’s comedy for sure, there’s humor in all tragedy but there’s a reason for sharing the gritty details of lockdown in India, I feel it’s important to share these stories lest we live them again! In the past year, I’ve filled 6 volumes with recollections of lockdown, I hoped to get them published by a newspaper, that failed.

Diary Excerpts and Commentary

A Note to the Reader: The following excerpts are from the journal of an expat living in Mumbai (recorded between Feb 2019 and Feb 2021), during Covid lockdown(1). Dates have been replaced with titles because, unless indicated in commentary or prose, they’re irrelevant:

It Begins: There’s a few cases of Covid in China and other places but I’m not too worried, this will have as much effect on me as the 2003 SARS outbreak(6), there’ve been many such scares in my lifetime. Besides, I caught the virus from a wedding party in Sri Lanka, it was like the Flu, high fever, mild delirium and a little trouble breathing. Interesting thing about Sri Lanka, all of the land and wealth seems to be in the hands’ of the Nords, the locals have very little and the price of food is like that of America or Europe. Also, airport authorities took a child’s Queen Conch shell away right before boarding, she was clearly enamored by her seemingly magical wave machine. After they took it from her, she cried all the way back to Mumbai.

The Flasher: A few Covid cases have been confirmed and I’m beginning to feel like an unwelcome guest in a foreign land, an unusual notion in a land where the locals say “Atithi Devo Bhava(11).” Typically, Indians are hospitable, on my travels to the South they were, of course, taxi drivers tried to scam me there, but cabbies the world over are a special breed of scum, you should’ve seen the way they took me to the wringer in Hong Kong, hospitality is a source of national pride here. This afternoon, there was a knock on the door, it was my landlord. I found myself baffled by what he said. I opened the door and he began to speak, timidly and slowly in broken English: “there’s been a complaint,” he said. “What’s wrong?” “A man is walking around outside naked.” “Oh, I see. Thanks for informing me,” I said and shut the door, believing that he was telling me of a dangerous predator lurking among this slum’s numerous tightly knit alleys at night. Later, I came to find that the landlord was attempting to tell me that the neighbors had accused me of going on moonlit strolls in the buff, I was the predator. I was shocked and enraged when I found that I was, according to gossip, a flasher, but consoled myself by telling myself that none of this is the landlord’s fault, he just wants to prevent other tenants from rioting. People are scared and looking to point a finger at an invisible assailant. This will be forgotten quickly and my name restored, I guess it’s not contradictory to be both hospitable and two-faced. Why do I care about my reputation in a slum? I don’t want any trouble.

Last Days of Freedom: Worry has set in, even chain restaurants no longer accept cash, not from me at least, I tried to buy something to eat with good ol’ paper money at McDonald’s and they refused to serve me. Worse luck, as the Chinese say. I’m working on a project here and I’m paid in cash, so credit isn’t something I have access to. This doesn’t just affect me, a large portion of the population is paid, untaxed of course, in cash and most likely doesn’t have a bank account. Also, everywhere I go my temperature is taken.

Days of Optimism: Lockdown began, I went to get groceries for the 2 days that we are told we must shelter in place and plan to go to bed early. There was hoarding and ransacking of shelves at the local grocer, but I’m sure that it’s just hysteria and this whole thing will end soon. Another interesting thing happened at the store today, two women got in a fight over the last box of cookies, the first woman, a pudgy mother with a bad attitude towards everyone that I had had the bad luck of having a few encounters with before, used to admonish me saying “smoking is a bad addiction,” I wagged my finger and said “sugar is a bad addiction,” laughing my way out of the store. It was the first time I’ve laughed in days, I’ve been in a daze, everything is quickly changing and feels so dire. The fowl woman, she lost the battle and the box of cookies. A word about change, I’m often told that nothing changes in this little hamlet and I believe it. It’s hyperbole, things change here, but slowly, there’s digital gadgets for sale, but there are also oxcarts that sell food and other remnants of the past. It’s not that nothing changes, It’s that time seems to go by slower here, like the locals heartbeat at a slower pace. I always feel rushed but they take as much time as the seasons.

Two Days In: The two days passed, but lockdown continues, the food I bought didn’t last. Even worse, I wasn’t informed that lockdown part 2 had begun without the first installment ending, I slept through the grocery shopping time, 6AM. I snuck out for an evening walk despite lockdown, 2 interesting things happened on my covert walk, I saw many others outside as well, they all spoke of the cow that wandered into the open air temple that’s adjacent to my apartment complex, some are feeding here, even the Muslims, having taken up many of the folk traditions of the Hindus they live among, agree that a sickly heifer wandering into the temple is a good omen, the other interesting thing, The Green Eyed Lady (an Indian with green eyes) made me some Khichdi(24). There were also Chinese in Haiden, Beijing, a district home to many Russians, who have green eyes. Isn’t genetic splendid? In any case, the woman asked me if I had eaten, usually more of a salutation than invitation here, I said “no,” so she brought me a bite to eat. The food supposedly heals the sick.

Big Changes in a Little Town: Since implementation of the Janata(5) Curfew, many continue to sit along alleys in large groups or participate in sports, not wearing masks(4). Yet, as I walk enroute to purchase groceries, these intrepid individuals say “here comes Corona” and cover their faces with their dupatta(7) or a handkerchief. This change of attitude towards me is, although slight, I’ve always had my fans and detractors here, is palpable. Maybe it’s just my nerves. Before lockdown, I sometimes played Teen Patti(19) with neighbors at least, never understood the rules though. Anyway, the shelter-in-place decree will be lifted on Passover, this must be a good omen, not that I sincerely believe in such things, I think to myself and reiterate my resolution to weather the storm in Mumbai. One concern about the transmission of Covid, Indians don’t have a sense of proximity, they always crowd.

One Good Deed: The endless bad news has left me exhausted. A few thoughts before bed, having lived in other parts of Asia and meeting many people from Europe, India is like America in one way, heterogeneity. It’s a type of melting pot, not a melting pot of strangers from far off lands but a mixture of old kingdoms, who have their own languages and cultures, forced under one, possibly too small, umbrella. Adding it up, Indian society, due to its long history, caste system and numerous religions is exceedingly complex, for example Muslims created the first free public institutes of higher learning, yet in some regards they’re treated like would-be separatists (Khurshid). Thinking about the day’s event, I sit on the small broken cot that’s my bed, I have to get this fixed soon, it’s interesting, the cost of handwork is very cheap here, in the US, anything that artisan might do is expensive and it’s more cost effective just to throw the old away. I’m reminded of this Chinese woman I met in Beijing, she told me “I’m not Han(23).” “Interesting, which ethnic group do you belong to?” “I’m Miao.” “Is there anything unique about the Miao?” “We don’t eat dogs. All Chinese people are the same, we are one people, the only difference between Han and Miao is that we don’t eat dogs.” I was teaching adult English at the time for extra income. India is more like America than China or Europe, diversity is endless.

Anand Nagar Has a New Song: The decree wasn’t lifted. Another day, thousands more Covid cases and locals have begun to shout “go home Corona!” Despite the taunts, I’m staying where I am. I don’t have much of a choice, there aren’t any flights anyway, the airports, in a panic, have shut down, everything, with a mere 2 day warning, has come to a grinding halt. I guess this isn’t merely more sensational media. Besides, the situation is becoming bleaker in the US and airports are havens for communicable diseases, they pack people in, from all over the world, like sardines. Have you ever seen the projected distribution of an epidemic? It all starts with airports. Resolute that this virus will blow over, I buckle down for the Summer of Corona in India.

Foreigners Have it Too: Nothing good has come from lockdowns so far, it has fostered hysteria, mob mentality, greed and anti-foreigner sentiment. This “City of Dreams,” has become a nightmare! The nation has fallen into the clutches of fear of contracting the virus from a foreign national. Hysteria, I tell you! I only hope that this all ends soon. Despite an anti-foreigner hysteria, according to The World Health Organization there are a total of 1637 people infected by Covid-19, a mere 49 of which are aliens(3) (The WHO). Yet, the locals blame it all on Tablighi Jamaat(13)(BBC), why not? Trump is calling this outbreak “The China Virus.” The borders have closed, looks like I’m staying here for a while, I didn’t plan on leaving anyway. Besides, there’s talk of easing restrictions. Back to the human condition, I had always been considered an outsider here, I had always been greeted with mocking and mistrust, to some degree, but there were those who accepted me. The first day I arrived the children called me names and adults mimicked the way I speak with derisive tones and gestures, I guess imitation is the highest form of flattery? I despise epigrams, I really do.

Nostalgia for Slightly Better Days: Before lockdown, there was a woman with a fish tattoo on her arm who often invited me to play cards but I shied away from her after neighbors had told me that she “accuses people of rape to blackmail them for money.” I don’t usually listen to gossip but wanted to play it safe. Other than that, I was at least invited to weddings, funerals and dances during the Graba(22) celebration. Funny story, the first year I refused to dance, a man jokingly told me that if I dance with a girl I have to marry her. I didn’t actually believe him, I’m not that gullible, I’m just not fond of Indian music. Back to the present, it’s not the time for nostalgia, although I can’t think of a better pastime right now, maybe if foreigners in India practice social distancing, unlike the locals, they won’t catch the virus and the stigma will dissolve. The other night I went for a walk just to break the monotony of watching time go by and hoping the world would heal. This morning, I was again accused of perverse behaviors by my landlord. I wasn't walking the alleyways naked, but I am being watched. On the walk, locals barred the alley and told me “no foreigners allowed.” Yet, they daily gather to play Cricket while sentinels watch for cops so that they can quickly disperse.

There’ Gestapos In This Movie Too: I guess I should mention something good too. Lockdown has caused a sort of hush here and now daily I can hear the sound of an infant being bathed through the one tiny window my studio apartment has. Through the 4 foot square aperture I can hear the infant laughing as warm water rushes over it. I now hope that things will return to the way they were before, just subpar not “holy crap the world is on fire and we are all going to die!” A combination of police and concerned citizens, working with the police, now stand along the main road with bamboo canes in hand. They remind me of stories my grandfather told of the Gestapo. Both are poised for violence. The police, they resound the sentiment of the concerned citizens, ridicule the foreigner. Now, I usually get an escort, something that is only afforded to me, to stop “roaming” as I go to get essentials. There are now dots painted on the sidewalk, we are supposed to stand on them to ensure social distancing, the locals don’t obey this. If I do the same, I’m informed, thwack would go the cane. I’ve begun to see in black and white, not metaphorically but literally, I feel as though I’m watching a movie about a distant authoritarian time. The brutalist architecture(24) is reminiscent of Russia and North Korea, it doesn’t take much imagination for the arabesque attributes to obscure. I haven’t slept much.

Building a Wall: This hamlet is bluffed by a river by a river on one side with a small foot bridge for crossing into Neilam Nagar. The police have blockaded the entrance to the crossing and are building a wall to, I believe, keep the several hundred thousand impoverished residence of this hamlet trapped like mice on a sinking ship. I truly fear the wall, perhaps it’s because of my education, having been forced to read the line ‘Something there is that doesn’t love a wall(20),’ throughout school, it’s almost a national anthem. Walls and golf courses have always seemed as despicable things to me. Neither the rich nor the influential politicians are suffering the same as we are in the slums. They play golf in their gated communities…

The First Stone Tossed: As the situation in India worsens, so do the jeering. Now, a few individuals throw rocks at me, a tactic usually reserved for thwarting the region’s menacing wild dogs, as I venture into the ever more dangerous streets at the permitted time, 6AM, to get essentials, in an attempt to diffuse their frustrations over the region’s spreading epidemic. Yet, returning to the political quagmire that is America keeps me hopeful that sheltering in Mumbai will become easier. Rocks tossed or not, I’m staying in place. Oddly, despite not eating much, I’m gaining weight, it must be stress. Supplies have run thin, some are hoarding and there’s talk of a 2 week prohibition on supply trucks entering Anand Nagar.

Insomnia: Depression has set in and money has mostly ran out. Immediately before lockdown, I was given a promotion but as of yesterday, the company I worked for has permanently shut their doors. I’ve just now realized that I haven’t left my house, let alone gotten out of the broken cot for days. I look at the clock, it’s 5:50 AM, the allotted time for shopping. Getting groceries at dawn isn’t a matter of waking at dawn; I haven’t slept in days either, just sat on this cot watching time go by. Insomnia is starting to take a toll, I’m beginning to hallucinate, time has lost all meaning, at times days go by in minutes yet other times, minutes last for a small eternity. It has been days since I’ve had a face to face conversation with another human.

Home Invaders: Somewhat dazed, I sit on my bed contemplating the meaninglessness of time when there’s nothing to do. Jolted from my daydream-like state, there’s a pounding sound on the door. The sound is getting louder. I hear shouting. The words come into focus, “foreigner, we’re coming in! We’re breaking the door down,” says the unfamiliar voices. I spring to my feet and bolt the door. The pounding becomes more and more rapid and fear takes a hold of me. But then I hear a familiar voice, the voice of my neighbor, she shouts something in Marathi and the marauders leave. I fall into a sleep and don’t wake for 2 days. Food was cut off for 2 weeks, I had to get a bite to eat from the Hanuman Mandir(18). They handed out plates of rice and lentils.

Vigilantes: Days go by and panic worsens among residents of this Mumbai chawl(8). Due to rising fears, vigilantes begin to safeguard the streets from “roaming.” These sentinels attempt to impose restrictions of their own device on me: they inform me that I am not permitted to walk along certain roads because they are afraid that I carry the virus, this happened once before on a late night walk but now it’s the norm, although I’m merely in search of a store to buy necessities and wearing a mask. In the end, these vigilantes won’t cause a reduction in hanging out on the street, this I know, but a few of this slum’s inhabitants get to feel empowered because they are the new sheriff in town. I guess we all need a whipping-post and there’s good among the wicked, a local temple and a few individuals are handing out grains to the needy. We are all needy here. At this point, the lockdown has gone on for months.

The New sheriffs in Town: Currently, there’s two police along Mumbai’s backstreets, those who were given authority by the Mumbai Municipal Corporation (MNC) and vigilantes. Feeling harassed and completely rejected by society, loneliness takes hold of me, I begin to search for a way out of this “city of dreams,” maybe returning home while a buffoonish leader (Trump) who makes a mockery of the US isn’t so bad, I think to myself. All things considered, it’s nearly impossible to abide by laws set by both the government and a hysteric mob anyway.

No Payment Until April: At least I have a roof over my head, I think to myself, an article in Aljazeera, Foreign Tourists Face Hostility in India Amid Coronavirus Panic informs that an Israeli woman was evicted from her home in Goa due to locals fear of contracting COVID-19 and others were forced out of their hotel (Purohit), I can go a day without milk, but not without a bed, not to mention, the police had recently found tourists living in a cave because they are trapped in India and have ran out of money (NBC). I haven’t yet been evicted, but am also out of funds and live under constant threat of eviction. Rent payment is suspended until April (Delhi High Court). I lay on my broken cot, I will try to get it fixed on the black market, and continue to doom-scroll taking note of the day’s death tally and searching for any sign of things getting better. Passover has passed but Covid hasn’t.

Nobody Goes Home for That Price: I do some research and come to find that the US Department of State is offering “repatriation flights,” these flights carry a $2000 price tag (a promissory note for the aforementioned amount must be signed before boarding the plane) and a random port of arrival is where I’ll end up if I choose to return home through the ever so benevolent government, how can anyone pay this price during a Pandemic (this thing has been upgraded to a Pandemic, how lovely words are). Upon arriving at this port, the returning expat must find their way home through barricades and the threat of being infected by Corona (Genter). I harden my heart and again resolve to weather the storm in Mumbai. Besides, if the promissory note isn’t paid, I will be banned from international travel. I’m a Digital Nomad. I travel, work at an incredibly low rate and can only afford to survive in developing countries.

August’s Heat: The death toll jets upward and 75 degree angle, it’s updated daily. While bombarded with an endless stream of bad news, jeering has morphed into threats of violence, sleep is still a rare occurrence, heat rash has caused the parts of my body covered by clothing to become as freckled as Little Orphan Annie, I’m as poor to boot, my field of vision is filled sprawling geometric patterns and my temper is quick.

Worse Than the Daughters of Temperance: As the situation thickens, stores begin to deny me service. A shopkeeper refuses to sell me certain items that are in stock and we aren’t barred from sale, I have just been informed that liquor and tobacco have become contraband. The more than nagging need to satiate addictions during lockdown aside, this proprietor allows Indian nationals to purchase products, but denies me the same goods. He’d have me starve to death! I, like all outsiders, have become the face of a faceless virus that has ruined lives, in fact “Muslims were initially blamed for the spread of infection (Siddiqui),” a group that is no less a part of India than Sikhs(10), yet, like Jews anywhere in the world, are perpetual outsiders. All things considered, this is mass hysteria! Nobody I know has died from Covid yet. A sampling error? Perhaps. Nonetheless, I sit in my room without a breeze (I don’t have A/C) and ponder what society has come to, Freud’s mob mentality.

They’re Trying to Starve Me Out: That shopkeeper has changed his mind, I returned to him to buy groceries but he yelled “go away foreigner white face.” He then insisted that a clerk not give me an old box, although I was carrying a heavy load and had no tote. The hypocrisy of people here is an in the face classism, a rule for me and a rule for them. The Covid cases are increasing exponentially! So are my headaches. They’re not headaches as much as a feeling that every nerve ending in my body is being prodded with a needle and the inside of my brain shrinking. Now, I sit at home alone, the rats scurry across the floor, the heat comes in waves, time stands still and there’s nothing to laugh about, Covid cases are in the hundred thousands and the death toll is staggering as well.

Befriending the Gang: August’s heat, insomnia, constant dread and lack of nutrition are getting to me, I don’t know how much longer I can go on. Even local pharmacists have begun to convey a fear of me and insist that I have a cough when I go in to ask for something for heat rash. Unlike the grocers, the pharmacists sell me goods, but with great hesitation and suspicion in regards to my presence in this chawl. Finding tobacco is now the chief task of every day. It’s sold on the black market, along with chocolate, alcohol and meat, at exorbitant prices. So, like a heroin addict, I slink up to a back alley leant-to and buy a pack of smokes. It’s just like buying illicit drugs: there’s an obligatory period of making small-talk, ambiguity over whether or not the man actually has tobacco, razzing, phone calls and scurrying about to find it. In the end, I walk away with cigarettes at European prices and a dirty feeling.

Suicide Among Death: Lockdown continues and most in this chawl have lost morale. The neighbor sent her son over to tinker on my electric piano. She told me of what has been dubbed The Flower House Girl. A young woman hung herself from rafters due to endless confinement to her home and the bleak picture of tomorrow that the daily news paints. What a shame! I had wondered what the fire department was doing on the main street. They took her out of the third story window with the truck’s ladder.

Another Year Another Onion: Did I mention it’s a New Year? I didn’t even notice that the year had changed, the date passed unceremoniously and with festivities. Again, the police have rebuilt the wall that surrounds this chawl, tightening the perimeter, I’m not sure if it’s to keep Covid out or us in. In any case, food has scarcely made it through the makeshift wall and news is that food supplies will be cut off for 2 weeks, again. In any case, that which makes it in is mostly sequestered by the gangs, anyhow. It’s that I’ve got the most onions mentality(12). Despite rarely eating, I continue to gain weight. Speaking of onions, there are now over nine million confirmed Covid cases and farmers are protesting the price gouging of seeds, stating that “We are the ones who have provided food, milk, vegetables when the whole country was in lockdown, we were still toiling in the fields. It is the government” not gathering in New Delhi “that has put us at risk by introducing these laws during Covid (Hollingsworth et al).” My heart is with these brave men and women and if I had the strength I would be beside them. All things considered, despite the news and friends’ proclamations that a new year brings new hope, this may be an onion of a year too.

The Walls Close In: Yet again, the police have reduced the circumference of the wall. I feel claustrophobic or like I’m slowly, very slowly drowning. I go to bed, but sleep doesn’t come. I hear the rats fight over the last morsels of food in this chawl, when I wake, there’s inevitably a rodent corpse on the footpath in the ally that leads to my house. Food has been cut off for 2 weeks. I gave the last of my supplies to a family, in total it amounted to a pound of rice and a pound of lentils. Now, the cot is less of a fishing net with big holes and more of an empty frame. I lay on the floor instead, will I be able to get somebody to fix it, I don’t know. I have to get my family to send money first.

An Altercation: We are now allowed an evening walk, so I venture out to the usual chants, a ragtag team of would-be thugs follow me. A wave of exhaustion washes over me and my pace slows to a crawl in front of the BJP(14) Office. As I cross in front of the office, beneath the flag, a scrawny slum-bastard walk up and says “are you British?” “I’m American,” I reply. “I hear they call you Hari(15).” I can smell the alcohol on his breath as he speaks. “What of it?” “More like Harry Potter.” “I guess that’s funny,” I say and try to walk away, but he grabs me by the collar and takes a swing, he misses. I return the blow, my fist makes contact with his face. My heart is racing. I fear an all out retaliation when, like roaches from beneath rot-wood, members of the local gang emerge from the alleys and come to my aid. I had been buying tobacco from them, at highway robbery prices for weeks, and so it’s in their interest to act as my vigilante guardians, in some regards, the gangs are better than the police, or at least their corruption and self service is laid out on the table for all to see, where the cops are supposed to protect and serve, protecting and serving often isn’t the case here, it comes down to ethnic and caste schisms.

Two Deaths and a Ghost: It’s another day and the death toll has spiked again. Feeling that I escaped death and death being the only thing the news reports on I begin to wonder, had I been killed by a mob, would my death have been reported as a Covid death? Is the death toll real? There’s a little hospital in this chawl, it’s certainly not inundated with the dying and morticians don’t walk the streets singing “bring out your dead,” as they did during the Black Plague of 1665. In fact, of the 3 who purportedly died in Anand Nagar, one was an elderly with Emphysema, the other was a suicide and the last one, I saw him walking down the street the other day, risen from the grave as by some Covid era miracle. Truth be told, he had gone back to his family home and returned. Not an easy task, much like during the Holocaust, traveling papers are required to go anywhere, there’s not even any trains, minus a few for displaced workers. A combination of lack of food, a growing mistrust of the government’s intention with regards to lockdown and dire times brings these lyrics to mind: My wife fixed up a tater stew/ We poured the kids full of it/ Mighty thin stew, though/ You could read a magazine right through it. Always have figured/ That if it’d been just a little bit thinner, Some of these here politicians/ Coulda seen through it(21).

Are the politicians duped or am I? What about herd immunity? I feel like I’m living in the Dust Bowl, except there’s no storm of dust and the sky isn’t black. The enemy is invisible. Or, am I the enemy? So much for relativism.

Police and Indians: On another outing, again attempting to purchase essentials, those things that whether for sustenance or pleasure, an invisible hand has decided that I may indulge in, I find that even local authorities seem misinformed about the number of foreign nationals in India with Covid. Recently, police stopped me for questioning and informed me that “foreigners are the cause of Corona Virus.” After looking for a quarantine stamp on my hands several times and not finding one they insisted that I run back home and followed me on motorcycles. This was witnessed by several locals who cheered the police on. As the police resounded sentiments of this chawl’s inhabitants, it reinforced negative feelings. I didn’t eat that night. The days following the police harassment, locals continued jeering me by saying “the police will come and hit you,” while mimicking the thwack of a cane on their posterior. Not just are they misinformed, they’d like to see me hung.

Read the Sign: In case you feel incredulous in regards to my claims about placing a stamp on the hands of foreigners and the police’s blindingly Orwellian allegiance to the BJP, the party who blamed Covid on Muslims and foreigners, The National Library of Medicine has this to say about it: tourists who arrived in India from affected countries were put in quarantine for 14 days in their port of arrival, their “left hand was stamped with ink” to maintain the date and time of their home quarantine, “a move that could risk assault, due to stigma towards Covid suspects [foreigners].” Individuals violating the quarantine can be penalized via Indian penal code Section 188, 269 and 270 (Siddiqui). The police, like the locals, are looking for a whipping-post and have a draconian view about foreign nationals in India during this crisis, what a hoot it would be to cane them. Bollywood is no “City of Dreams,” in fact, misinformation abounds here, signs, obviously posted by Conservative and nationalistic Hindu Vegans, reads as so: ‘Ways to avoid Covid/ Don’t eat meat/ Don’t smoke/ Don’t talk to foreigners.’ I no longer see the good that I jotted down in an earlier journal entry. Also, tired of the word “misinformation,” not sure who gets to decide what’s misinformation, although I myself used it in this entry, just tired: days crawl by and the feeling of isolation causes a pressure on my cranium and a meaninglessness to all things.

Mending a Bed: Despite having become a pariah, I was able to get the cot fixed, for a small fee, a tailor was willing to come over, and work against the law, they despise me, but like money enough to look past it. The work doesn’t look great, it’s rigged. Most everything here is rigged. I’m never sure if this is the ingenuity of a race of impoverished people or the result of an attitude that declares good enough is good. In the end, most everything is a hodgepodge of corrugated steel, broken bits of wood and rope with exposed electrical wires that run through water and the elements in general. I’ve always said, if the manpower here became a collected force and decided to stop pollution, get the rivers clean, enforce something like an ADA, demand fair housing they would be an unstoppable force. Instead, they divide themselves along ethnic schisms.

A Pickpocket: Food has returned to the stores and shopkeepers are serving me, but I was pickpocketed at the register. I took my wallet out to pay, right before my eyes a man reached in my wallet and took a 500 out, it was the last of the money I had. I came home empty handed. For the first time since my divorce, I broke down and cried. Now I sit wiping my eyes. Is all hope for humanity lost? I cannot answer. Besides Covid, there’s so much political turmoil! It looks as though there won’t be a smooth transition of power this time.

What I’ve Learned From the Steppenwolf: I’m concerned for the nation’s migrant workers, other visiting foreign nationals and those who descend from Mizoram and Assam, these individuals may be more prone to the psychological effects of loneliness than myself. Culturally, Indian life centers around an extended family, whereas I’m more akin to Herman Hesse’s Steppenwolf. All in all, it’s tough to live overseas in the best case scenario and down-right depressing when you’ve become public enemy number one. But, as I said, I have a tough enough skin to survive this, but there are those who’ve been cannibalized by their own society. Anyway, lockdown should end in 3 weeks, the infection rate is on the decline. We are now aloud out in the evenings and I have taken to sitting with friends in front of the Rukhmini(16) Temple. It’s like the opening line of a joke, a Jew, a Muslim and a Hindu… Among us, there’s a Muslim, a Jew, a Christian and a Hindu priest. All in all, I need them not, but it’s nice to have some companionship, even if there’s little communication. I have returned to good graces.

Family Matters: Although I feel alone, I’m not jealous of India’s family structure. Locals often ask me about my family, casual things like “how is your mother?” “I don’t know. I don’t keep in touch with my family very much,” I respond. It’s a matter of privacy and staying out of gossip. Here, grown men never grow up, they are fed and coddled by their mothers. I had recently met a man who can’t cook for himself, nor wash his own clothes and still occasionally sleeps in bed with his mother. Speaking of men, spouse abuse, along with drinking, is on the rise. It’s not uncommon to see and hear it. Too often, after dark, I witness, when I sneak out for a walk to break the munatiny, men hitting women by the open air temple that my house is adjacent to. Speaking of temples, Hanukkah recently passed. I lit a makeshift menorah, but even that gave me little joy. As for now, the best thing is drinking chai by the little Rukmini temple.

Down With the Wall: The wall has come down! Lockdown isn’t over, but the wall has come down. Alas, air travel has returned, the government has announced “air bubbles” and I’m returning to America. After everything, I was never again treated as more than a second-class citizen in that chawl but it matters not, I’m leaving! In the end, the locals’ reaction to me and the psychological impact of the loneliness, their words and actions heave upon me, have caused deep scars. On a more disappointing note, all local newspapers have declined to publish my recollections of lockdown. An earnest question, were we fed false dichotomies, ones that stated wear a mask or everyone dies and get the vaccine or everyone dies, just for some political experiment or agenda? It’s just odd that after the farmers protested the Covid number began to decrease.

Integrity Intact

No Amnesty for the Wicked: One might say, you’ve survived the worst, why bring this up at all? Isn’t it time for amnesty? I feel the answers to this was best put into words in the video Pandemic Amnesty: Do you Forgive and Forget and so I will summarize what the author said, “there were things that happened that there needs to be a recognition of, and there needs to be a public apology. There needs to be a promise that this never happens again. There needs to be people who actually pay for their behavior, potentially criminal behavior. […] Until the people who did harm admit that they did harm this kind of thing will just keep repeating itself. […] Some people were victims, other people were perpetrators, and then there [were] also enablers (Wand).” For instance, The Deccan Herald reports that there have been “attacks on people from India’s northeastern region […], suspecting them of being carriers of the virus.” Assaulting your own people is like cannibalism, that’s all there is to it! As it was written in the newspaper, apart from being called “Corona” or “Chinki(9)” India’s [Asiatic] people were spat on and forcibly quarantined, despite showing no Covid symptoms, all because of their looks and an ignorant fear that anyone who looks different are the root cause of the Pandemic. Also, they were denied entry into their apartment complexes, evicted, merely threatened with eviction or forced out of restaurants to make others comfortable and none wanted to share transport with them (Karmakar). Of all things, it’s not time for amnesty.

Ignorance isn’t an Excuse: There needs to be punishment for these wicked deeds! There’ll be no retribution for foreigners who suffered in India, but locals, those from minority communities, who had just days before lockdown been upstanding citizens, deserve retribution and possibly reparations. There those who died from the virus and those who died at the selfishness and ignorance of mankind, for those who died by the hand of man have this to say: “To forget the dead would be akin to killing them a second time ( Elie Wiesel).” Ignorance, for good reason, has never been, nor shall it be an excuse for breaking laws and committing atrocities. The Atlantic is wrong in their assertion that we should just forgive and forget (Oster). Perhaps, in the name of healing, it’s time to forgive, but should never forget!

A Clear Conscience: During The Covid Outbreak, I may have lost my mind, found myself in complete isolation and on the brink of starvation at times, but at least I kept my dignity. I threw no stones and attempted to obey the laws, even those that actively brought hardship into my life. I defended myself when needed, I live by the adage “walk gently and carry a big stick.” As for the war of the ethnicities in India, I guess it’s none of my business, alone, I can’t defend the minorities. And in regards to retribution for the wicked, my hands are also tied. However, I won’t give amnesty, not in my heart. Forgetting and moving on, as Oster’s article suggests (Oster) is, to reiterate, akin to allowing the cycle to repeat again. In the end, my travels have provided me with armor to protect against cabin fever, I’ve endured hardships and loneliness in remote villages of Nepal and have been “the stranger” in the metropolitans of Hong Kong, Bangladesh… But there are those among the Indians whose identity and self-worth come from a tightly knit family and friend structure, many of which took their own lives due to isolation. Others starved to death because of lack of income and others died due to the rejection of medical services. Luckily, I was not immune to the effects of isolation, but well insulated from the threat of Corona by a chawl that exists off the radar and societies’ fear of foreigners, local inhabitants keep me at arm’s length and so, I didn’t catch the virus during lockdown.

Notes

1: The views herein are not the of WTDA but the author. At WTDA we publish a variety of news, depending on what we deem to be an interesting story at the moment.

2: At the time of writing, Covid hadn’t yet been declared a Pandemic.

3: Citation no longer available at The World Health Organization.

4: The author of this journal wants it to be known that they don’t, nor did they ever, believe that masks are/were an effective way of preventing Covid-19 but were forced to wear a face covering by Indian law. At the time, they obeyed the law.

5: Public.

6: Hyped media, having no real effect on the life of the author.

7: A long scarf worn by Indian women.

8: The Marathi word for neighbourhood which is colloquially used to denote a slum.

9: North Indian slang for India’s Asiatic population.

10: A religion that combines attributes of Islam and Hinduism and originated in India.

11: Guests are G-D.

12: In 2019, due to flooding, there was an onion shortage. An entrepreneur had been hoarding onions. At the time, not only did he declare that “onions are the new gold” he purportedly sold the onions for 3 times the market value. To the author, it serves as a symbol of the selfish psychological state that caused some of the worst aspects of Covid lockdown.

13: A 3 day Islamic spiritual event in India’s capital hosted by a 100 years Islamic Missionary Movement. Due to the cases reaching over 300 after the event, the meme was coined: China is the “producers” of the virus, and Muslims are the “distributors.”

14: A political party, of which Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the leader of. Every neighborhood has a BJP office.

15: A common male name in India and regional pronunciation of the Anglo name Harry.

16: The primary wife of the Hindu G-D Krishna.

17: The name of the slum in which the writer lived during lockdown.

18: A temple in the slum in which the foreigner lived during lockdown. The temple is dedicated to the monkey G-D, a deity who helped Rama in the Hindu epic, the Ramayana.

19: A poker-like card game in which the players make melds with three cards.

20: Mending Wall by Robert Frost.

21: Talkin’ Dust Bowl Blues by Woodie Guthrie.

22: A dance form native to the west Indian state of Gujarat, performed in October to honour the Hindu Goddess Durga. It is also celebrated in Maharashtra. People gather on the streets, dancing in pairs of men and women where they rhythmically click sticks together.

23: The largest ethnic group in mainland China, about 91% of the population.

24: A South Indian dish made of rice and lentils. It’s a comfort food that’s supposed to aid in healing.

25: Brutalist architecture emerged during the 1950s in the United Kingdom, among the reconstruction projects of the post-war era.These buildings characterised by minimalism and bare building materials. They are commonly seen today in old Soviet Union countries and Central Asia, reminding many of totalitarianism.

[marathifilm]

Lockdown Lagna is about a couple whose marriage is arranged with life partners they accepted. However, their plans are spoiled when a nationwide lockdown is announced. The couple start connecting with each other through video calls and get to know each other well, but faith has other plans.

[indipopcorn]

Pune Porsche case- Accused writes essay on road accident: Juvenile will fulfill all board conditions; The High Court granted bail to the minor on June 25.

In 2022, India saw 67,387 hit-and-run cases, lower than what it saw in 2018 and 2019, though the country witnessed a more significant dip in 2020 and 2021. However, this is most likely linked to the Covid-related lockdowns in those two years. Last year India saw 30,486 deaths from hit-and-run cases, the highest in this five year analysis.

The new provision for hit-and-run cases in the newly enacted Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) has caused furor among truckers with many taking to the streets across the nation to protest the new law.

Maharashtra as a whole came together to demand justice for the two young persons who died in the Porsche case. Since the driver was only 17 years and 8 months old, he was punished with only 300 essays to complete under the juvenile statute.

The accused was drunk at the time of the incident. He was driving a car at a speed of 200 kilometers per hour.

Court said that we are bound by the law and the objective of Juvenile Justice Act and we have to treat the accused in the same way as we treat any other child in conflict of law. No matter how serious the offence. The accused is in rehabilitation, which is the main objective of the Juvenile Justice Act. The court said- The accused is also in shock after the accident.

The accused was detained after the accident, but the Juvenile Justice Board granted him bail only after 15 hours. As part of the bail conditions, he was asked to write a 300-word essay on road accidents, work with the traffic police for a few days and submit two surety bonds of Rs 7,500 each.

If this is the case all affluent families will provide luxurious car to their children as video game

Many individuals write on social media, but will it actually be helpful? Law is supreme and the only thing that courts follow. The change is long overdue. The ruling administration has already expressed alarm about it, and now the opposition is already well-positioned to make it possible.

Shri Rahul Gandhi is leading incredibly and visiting many victims than why there’s no intervention for the hit and run cases which needs the attention more. Thousands of individuals have written about hit-and-run incidents and the Porsche case, so why do they not want him to be involved in this? Why are people treating such important matters with such disregard? If leaders of the opposition agree, this measure can be passed and the law proposed earlier can be implemented.

I have read about two hit-and-run incidents in Ahmedabad throughout the past week. Six were crushed by a senior citizen who lost his balance. Thankfully, five people have spared lives, although their injuries are severe. Who is going to pay for it? and someone has lost their life for his amusement. 

I saw a driver on a busy route attempting a stunt with his automobile. Every customer and store owner was seen, but what can be done? To whom should one denounce such foolishness?  Every day, a young driver in the Bodakdev area drove a car recklessly, and the way he drove the car would eventually end someone's life.

A web series “maai” has shown new angle as well where hit and run is new and easy way of murder.

[acquisory]

ECONOMY-UNCERTAIN TIMES REQUIRE FISCAL FORBEARANCE

‘‘What is necessary for livelihood and what is necessary for addressing the issue of pandemic does not deserve the kind of constraints which the FRBM places. Certainly, this is the time for forbearance, not rigid adherence to fiscal rectitude”

– N K Singh, Chairman, 15th Finance Commission and FRBM Roadmap Committee

A drastic contraction of 23.9% in quarterly GDP has taken our economy to FY 2014 quarterly levels. With COVID — 19 cases continuing to soar, and no new fiscal stimulus announced by the Government, our economy’s short-term decline is set to continue in the foreseeable future.

The pandemic’s ‘peak’ that our government was expecting to reach by now, remains elusive. Making matters worse for the economy is that 5 large states that contribute ~40% of our GDP — Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Gujarat — are those where >50% confirmed cases of COVID — 19 remain concentrated as on date. The pandemic has also reached India’s rural areas, of the districts with over 1,000 cases, almost half were in rural areas, up from 20% in June, raising concerns.

The problem is a slump in aggregate demand with its repercussions on both the manufacturing and the services sectors and consequent job losses. Services industry contributed >55% to India’s GVA, in FY 2020 and 2019, and employed 31.5%of our workforce. With services and manufacturing sector experiencing a grinding halt for last ~ 4 months, most of the job losses of 85 million have been in these sectors. Most importantly, manufacturing is expected to remain in the negative domain till the 4th quarter of FY 2021. Construction activities, including real estate bore the severest brunt of the prolonged lockdown. Even today, it remains far from its pre-Covid-19 level due to labour shortages, slump in demand for…

Read More: https://www.acquisory.com/ArticleDetails/80/Economy-Uncertain-Times-Require-Fiscal-Forbearance

[nxtwat]

The festival is celebrated with much pomp and gaiety all over south India, majorly in Karnataka, Maharashtra, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. But this time the celebrations won't be as pompous because of the lockdown situation. You can still pass on the good wishes of the day and celebrate. Wishing all people Happy Basava Jayanti 2024!

Happy Basava Jayanti 2024!

[jayaacharya]

Who is Nupur Shikhare? A Glimpse into the Life of Ira Khan's husband!

There is a wedding season going on. Various celebrities are getting married to their loved ones. The wedding of Anant Ambani and Radhika merchant has a special "place" in news channels and social media. On the contrary, there was a groom who wore a sleeveless T-shirt and shorts at his own wedding. Yes, you are correct. We are talking about Nupur Shikhare.

Nupur Shikhare was born in Pune on 17 October, 1985. His zodiac sign is libra. He is the owner of the gym chains and a fitness trainer.

He was not very popular. He used to train Ira Khan (popular actor Aamir Khan's daughter). They dated and fell in love with each other. They got married in January 2024.

Nupur Shikhare completes his basic education from S D Kataria high school. He graduated from R.A Poddar college of economics and commerce, Mumbai, Maharashtra. He got an Indian look. He has black hair and black eyes. His weight is 66 kg and height is 5'7". Nupur is a Hindu by religion. His mother, Pritam Shikhare is a dance teacher.

It was in the lockdown period when Nupur decided to work on her fitness. She started taking online classes from Nupur. After sometime when the period of lockdown gets over, they started dating and going outside for a dine date. Both Ira and Nupur started sharing videos and pictures of their training sessions. The day was Valentine's day in 2021, Nupur posted a picture in his Instagram account with a caption - "Happy Valentine's Day my love @khan.ira". The post got viral in no time. The day has come. Both got married on 3rd January, 2024. Nupur was a national level tennis player. He was also a participant in the Ironman world championship which was organised in 2014. He started his fitness career with Miss universe Sushmita Sen when they were both started taking training under same roof. Nupur particited in "The Ultimate Beat master" competition which was organised in 2017. Unfortunately, he got eleminated on second round of the competition. The turning point was the year 2018 when he worked as an Action Director in the show called "Alladin" which was telecasted in Disney India TV. There is a tattoo of martial arts in his right leg, "IAM" tattoo is his right wrist, "Anchor" tattoo in his left hand and photo of a leaf tattoo on his back.

Interesting facts

Pictures of Nupur holding a bottle of alcohol and cigarettes are viral in social media

He was born and brought up in Pune, Maharashtra.

He has a great understanding of the fitness industry like blood type diet speciality, weight loss, weight gain, general fitness, extra fitness protocol and regulations etc.

He is a social media fitness influencer.

Apart from gym training, he also provided different sports trainings like tennis training, functional training, circuit training, Parkour training, martial arts, crossfits, body weight training, capoeria training etc.

He is the fitness trainer of many celebrities and one of them is Ira Aamir Khan which is now her life partner.

Nupur is a huge animal lover, especially Dog.

It is also said that Nupur also trained Aamir Khan.

Nupur is also a brand ambassador of many commercials including Puma.

He is very religious and a great follower of Lord Ganesha.

General Information

Full name : Nupur Popeye Shikhare

Pet name : Popeye

Occupation : Professional gym trainer and social media influencer

Popular for : Marrying Aamir Khan's daughter Ira Khan

Date of birth : 17th October, 1985

Day of birth : Thursday

Age : 39 years

Place of birth : Pune, Maharashtra

Zodiac sign : Libra

Nationality : Indian

Height : 5'7" (in feet inches)

Nationality : Indian

Schooling : S D Kataria high school

College/ University : R A college of economics and commerce, Mumbai, Maharashtra

Marital status : Married

Wife : Ira Khan

[andhrapradeshmedtechzone]

Presenting the 'Made in Lockdown' to Shri Ramesh Bais, 23rd Governor of Maharashtra since 2023. The governor of Jharkhand congratulates Dr. Sharma for the Made in Lockdown Book. He extended his heartfelt wishes to AMTZ for their steadfast dedication and unwavering commitment to fostering innovation in the Healthcare Industry.

[blueweave8]

India Drip Irrigation Market Insight, Share, Forecast 2022-2029

BlueWeave Consulting, a leading strategic consulting and market research firm, in its recent study, estimated the India Drip Irrigation Market size at USD 1.04 billion in 2022. During the forecast period between 2023 and 2029, BlueWeave expects the India Drip Irrigation Market size to grow at a significant CAGR of 12.83% reaching a value of USD 2.15 billion by 2029. Major growth drivers for the India Drip Irrigation Market include increasing trend in greenhouse vegetable production, coupled with a growing emphasis on sustainable and precision agriculture practices. India heavily relies on agriculture, predominantly rain-fed. It creates a ripe environment for promoting drip irrigation in the market. Rajasthan, a northwestern Indian state facing severe water scarcity, has witnessed a significant uptake of drip irrigation due to its adaptability. Indian farmers are increasingly urged to adopt drip irrigation systems in open fields to optimize water usage and enhance agricultural yield. The prevalence of open-field drip irrigation exceeds that of greenhouses across the country. Notably, greenhouses employing drip irrigation are primarily utilized for horticultural production, showcasing a growing inclination among farmers toward greenhouse cultivation, driven by the benefits of year-round production. As a result, such aspects are expected to propel the India Drip Irrigation Market forward during the forecast period. However, high initial and maintenance cost of large-scale drip irrigation systems and increasing issues regarding quality of water available for irrigation are anticipated to restrain the overall market growth during the period in analysis.

Impact of COVID-19 on India Drip Irrigation Market

COVID-19 pandemic adversely affected the India Drip Irrigation Market. Disruptions in the supply chain, labor shortages, and economic uncertainties have led to challenges in the adoption of drip irrigation systems. The pandemic-induced lockdowns and restrictions affected the manufacturing and distribution of drip irrigation components, causing delays and supply chain inefficiencies. Farmers faced difficulties in accessing and affording the necessary equipment, hindering the widespread implementation of drip irrigation. As the agricultural sector strives to recover, addressing the aftermath of COVID-19 and revitalizing support for drip irrigation initiatives becomes imperative for sustaining and enhancing India's agricultural productivity.

Sample Request @ https://www.blueweaveconsulting.com/report/india-drip-irrigation-market/report-sample

India Drip Irrigation Market – By Crop Type

Based on crop type, the India Drip Irrigation Market is divided into Field Crops, Fruits & Nut, and Vegetable Crops segments. The field crops segment holds the highest share in the India Drip Irrigation Market by crop type. Drip irrigation offers precise and efficient water delivery directly to the roots of field crops, ensuring optimal moisture levels for growth. The drip irrigation method proves particularly effective for crops like sugarcane, cotton, onions, potatoes, and various grains, enhancing their yield significantly. Additionally, the economic viability of drip irrigation in terms of water savings, increased crop productivity, and reduced labor costs further contributes to its preference among Indian farmers cultivating field crops. Overall, these factors drive the dominance of the field crops segment in the India Drip Irrigation Market.

India Drip Irrigation Market – By Region

Regionally, the India Drip Irrigation Market is segmented as North India, South India, East India, and West India. The West India region holds the highest share in the India Drip Irrigation Market. Maharashtra dominates the India drip irrigation market, urging increased funds under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana to bring 50% of agricultural land under drip irrigation in the next five years. The major Western state in India emphasizes extending drip irrigation beyond water-intensive crops under the 'More Crop Per Drop' initiative. Financial responsibilities are shared, with Maharashtra allocating INR 653.33 crore for drip irrigation, of which the central government contributes INR 400 crore. Subsidies for drip irrigation and sprinklers drive adoption, with the state covering 12,908.44 thousand hectares, showcasing awareness. Major players like Jain Irrigation Systems partner with the government, stimulating market growth through innovative projects and increased support.

Competitive Landscape

Major players operating in the India Drip Irrigation Market include Netafim Irrigation India Pvt Ltd, Jain Irrigation Systems, Kisan Irrigation, Ecoflo India, Rivulis, Captain Polyplast Limited, Kaveri Irrigation Systems Pvt Ltd, Megha Agrotech, Finolex Plasson Industries Private Limited, and Mahindra EPC. To further enhance their market share, these companies employ various strategies, including mergers and acquisitions, partnerships, joint ventures, license agreements, and new product launches.

Contact Us:

BlueWeave Consulting & Research Pvt. Ltd

+1 866 658 6826 | +1 425 320 4776 | +44 1865 60 0662

info@blueweaveconsulting.com

[mirrorreview]

Bank of Maharashtra is one of the oldest public sector banks in India headquartered at Pune, Maharashtra. It has a total of 2022 branches along with 29 million customers. It provides services in both consumer and corporate banking. Let’s have a look at the Bank of Maharashtra timings.

Bank of Maharashtra Timings during Covid-19 Pandemic

Post lockdown, like other banks Bank of Maharashtra, has also restored its operations. The Bank of Maharashtra timings were between 10:00 am to 05:00 pm from Monday to Saturday (Except 2nd and 4th Saturday).

All the banking services like opening of bank account, updation of bank passbook, cash deposits/withdrawals, etc. are available at the bank. Therefore it was advised to the customers that they should avoid visiting the branch and instead avail banking services via BOM Net-banking or Mobile Banking during Pandemic.

To know more, click here

[ayurvedainitiative-blog]

3 Things You Need To Know When Coming Out Of Lockdown | Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar" on YouTube

Take a Break and Meditate

Find a comfortable position and close your eyes.

Take a deep breath in, filling your lungs with air.

Exhale slowly, letting go of any tension or stress.

Bring your attention to the sensations in your body. Notice any areas of tightness or relaxation.

Shift your focus to your breath. Observe the natural rhythm of your inhales and exhales.

As thoughts arise, acknowledge them without judgment and gently guide your attention back to your breath.

Allow yourself to fully immerse in the present moment, letting go of worries about the past or future.

Take a few more deep breaths, cultivating a sense of calm and tranquility.

When you're ready, slowly open your eyes and carry the peace you've cultivated into the rest of your day.

This quick meditation can help you find a moment of peace and presence amidst the busyness of life. Feel free to adjust the duration or steps according to your preference and the time you have available.

Rejuvenate yourself with Ayurveda and Yoga Campaign - Ayurveda , Doctor , Treatment , Nadi Pariksha , Medicine , Pure Herbs ,Sudarshan Kriya , Yoga , Meditation in

Mumbai, Delhi , Bangalore , Hyderabad , Ahmedabad , Chennai , Kolkata , Surat , Pune , Jaipur , Lucknow Kanpur , Nagpur , Indore , Thane , Maharashtra,India , United States ,

Netherlands , France , Ukraine , Germany , Indonesia , Bulgaria , United Kingdom , Ireland , Russia , Canada , Singapore , China , Poland , Japan , South Korea , Brazil , Egypt , Portugal , Spain , Azerbaijan , Australia .

[esgdatainrate]

Industrial Air Chiller Forecast to 2031 with Key Companies Profile, Supply, Demand and SWOT Analysis

Industrial Air Chiller Market Research, 2031

The global industrial air chiller market was valued at $4.7 billion in 2021, and is projected to reach $7.3 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 4.3% from 2022 to 2031.

The global industrial air chiller market size was valued at $ 4,669.1 million in 2021, and is projected to reach $ 7,252.9 million by 2031, registering a CAGR of 4.3% from 2022 to 2031. Industrial air chillers are used for eliminating heat from various industrial processes. This is achieved by blowing ambient air via a fan around the condenser containing the heated refrigerant or fluid. Industrial air chillers primarily comprise four basic parts, which include condenser, expansion valve, evaporator, and compressor.

A large number of industrial machineries are susceptible to failing, owing to their higher operating temperatures, especially, those use in manufacturing industries. Manufacturing industries use high temperatures in many of their processes and operations such as melting, casting, and welding. Therefore, for controlling temperature of such machines and preventing them from overheating, industrial air chillers are widely used. Furthermore, the pharmaceuticals industry is witnessing a notable growth, owing to rise in elderly population and increase in number of communicable and non-communicable diseases. It uses industrial air chillers for maintaining low temperature for safe storage of drugs and other chemicals. Hence, growth in the pharmaceutical industry is expected to boost demand for industrial air chiller industry. Moreover, rapid rise in the economic standards and global population propel demand of chillers in the energy sector, especially for fuel and electricity. This has led to rise in demand for industrial air chillers in the energy sector.

Major players in the industry offer a wide range of air-cooled chillers for applications in various industries. Furthermore, they have launched new and advanced air-cooled chillers to stay competitive in the market. For instance, in March 2022, Carrier Global Corporation (UK), launched AquaForce Vision 30KAV, a new line air-cooled chiller. This new line comes with R-1234ze, which is an ultra-low global warming potential (GWP) refrigerant. This can provide cooling up to -12degree Celsius, and is applicable in food manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, plastics, and metal industries. Moreover, business expansion strategy plays a vital role in keeping manufacturers competitive. For instance, in August 2021, Blue Star Limited, established an air-cooled chillers testing facility at their R&D center at Maharashtra, India.

The novel coronavirus had spread rapidly across various countries and regions, causing an enormous impact on lives of people and the overall community. It began as a human health condition and later became a significant threat to global trade, economy, and finance. The COVID-19 pandemic had halted production of many components of industrial air chillers due to lockdown. The economic slowdown initially resulted in reduced spending on various industrial air chillers by industrial and commercial users. However, owing to introduction of various vaccines, the severity of COVID-19 pandemic has significantly reduced. As of mid-2022, the number of COVID-19 cases have significantly reduced. This has led to full-fledged reopening of industrial air chillers manufacturing companies at their full-scale capacities. Furthermore, it has been more than two years since the outbreak of this pandemic, and many companies have already shown notable signs of industrial air chiller market growth.

Furthermore, rise in globalization and increase in internet and other remote communication technologies have significantly contributed toward rapid growth of the IT sector. Computers, servers, and other electronic machineries of the IT sector produce a high amount of heat, which hampers efficiency of the machines. Therefore, the IT sector utilizes industrial air chillers for cooling their machines. In addition, availability of industrial air-cooled chillers in a wide range of capacities and sizes makes them useful for all large- and small-scale industries. These factors are expected to drive demand for industrial air chillers.

Competition Analysis

Key companies profiled in the industrial air chiller market report include Airedale International Air Conditioning Ltd., Blue Star Limited, Carrier Global Corporation, Daikin Industries, Ltd., GEM Orion Machinery Private Limited, Hiver Aircon Pvt.Ltd, Jiangsu Huazhao Refrigeration Equipment CO., Ltd., Johnson Controls International PLC, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, and Trane Technologies Company, LLC.

Full Report With TOC:-https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/industrial-air-chiller-market-A09997

[creativesplashpune]

Powada: A trip to the rich culture and history of Maharashtra

Powada: A trip to the rich culture and history of Maharashtra

This project of Creative Splash has an intriguing backstory. Back in the lockdown two years ago, we made a short film called “Yanda Hich Vaari”. This short film was an experience of Vaari as a whole. The short film was created by and for us. We poured our efforts into making the short film. After two years, a request for an animated film depicting Maharashtra’s history and culture was made by Ogilvy Agency. We presented the already-produced short film, and guess what? They cherished it. “Our work speaks for itself,” as we always say.

We were so happy that we got the project which we liked so much. Our client was Bahawa Entertainment. They shooted live-action footage. We decided to showcase the history of Maharashtra by using illustrations and animation.

Challenge: The style that we were going to approach looked very minimal. To convince the client that we can achieve the visuals that they were expecting with this style was a task. The main challenge that we had was the transition from live-action to animated sketches. It needed to be handled smoothly without disturbing the visual flow.

Provision: The ideas which were floating in our minds were put on a simple white paper with all the details one can ask for. The Storyboarding was made with details not only in the sketches but also with the camera movement. We provided them with a precise view of the video. And the client loved it! We knew we were heading in the right direction. After looking at the storyboard one could imagine what the final result would look like.

After the storyboard was well received by the client we started doing sketches. With 10000 lines and 50000 circles, the Illustrations took a shape. But before moving forward, we had to fill these sketches with colours to bring the soul into the picture. We purposely decided to keep the human figures in black and white and filled the colours only into the background. We chose warm colours such as orange, red and yellow to showcase the warmth of our culture and the rigidness of our history. These warm elements did the magic and brought life to the sketches.

Then we moved to our favourite part. Yes! You guessed it right. Animation! As you all know we love bringing life to static frames. To make this happen, we used Parallax Motion Graphics. It’s a bit difficult to understand but it takes your visuals to the next level. Parallax is not any kind of magic stick which will do its work with a single stroke. It took a lot of detail, hard work and knowledge to give realistic movement in the video. The compilation of the entire video was done using 3D Compositing. The animations and SFX (Sound Effects) enhanced the video and added beauty to the visuals.

The next thing was lighting. Lighting always plays an important part in any visual. Adding the right amount of light is a major task. The tones and the angles of the light change according to each and every situation. We achieved this by using VFX. By adding elements like musical notes and light particles we enhanced the visuals. It added a golden touch to the entire environment of the video. The transitions from one scene to the other managed to happen smoothly without disturbing the visual flow. At the end of the video, the transition from illustrations to live-action footage was creatively done using the camera-matching technique.

The Outcome

The client was mesmerized after watching the video. We achieved more than what they expected. The video got a positive response from the audience. The rich culture and history of Maharashtra were reflected in each frame. This video added brand value to the company. To conclude, we loved doing the sketches and animations with our unique ideas and creativity. We stretched our abilities to achieve what we had imagined. The video was a great success. The video simply reminds everyone about their history textbook.

[jobswab]

How to Apply for E-Pass

Unlock seamless travel during restrictions by following our comprehensive guide on How to Apply for E-Pass. The E-Pass system was introduced by several state governments in India to facilitate the movement of people during lockdowns or other restricted periods. The E-Pass acts as a permit for individuals needing to travel during emergencies or for essential services. To apply for an E-Pass, follow these general steps: - Visit the Official Website: Go to the respective state government's official portal dedicated to the E-Pass service. - Choose the E-Pass Application Option: Look for the "Apply for E-Pass" or a similar option on the website. - Fill in the Required Details: Enter personal details such as your name, address, reason for travel, vehicle number, and other relevant information. - Upload Necessary Documents: Attach any required documents, such as identification proof, proof of residence, or medical certificates, if needed. - Submit the Application: After filling in all details and uploading the documents, submit the application form. - Receive Confirmation: Once your application is processed, you will receive a confirmation via SMS or email with your E-Pass details. - Download and Print the E-Pass: Print a copy of your E-Pass or keep a digital version on your smartphone for easy access. How to Apply for E-Pass in Delhi If you need to travel within or outside Delhi during restricted periods, you can apply for an E-Pass by following these steps: - Access the Delhi Government's E-Pass Portal: Visit the Delhi government's official website or directly go to the link for E-Pass applications. - Select the E-Pass Option: Click on the link that says "Apply for E-Pass" or similar. - Provide Essential Information: Fill in your personal details, the reason for travel, and your destination. Ensure you enter accurate information. - Attach Supporting Documents: Depending on the reason for travel, you may need to provide documents like a medical certificate, employment ID, or other proofs. - Submit the Application: Review your details carefully before submitting the form. - Track Application Status: After submission, you can track the status of your application through the portal. - Receive and Print the E-Pass: If approved, you will receive an SMS or email with the E-Pass. Print it or save it on your mobile device. How to Apply for E-Pass in Maharashtra Applying for an E-Pass in Maharashtra is straightforward. Here’s how you can do it: - Visit the Maharashtra E-Pass Portal: Go to the official Maharashtra E-Pass website or the relevant state government's website. - Fill Out the Application Form: Select the “Apply for E-Pass” option and fill in all necessary details such as your name, address, purpose of travel, and vehicle number. - Upload Required Documents: Attach supporting documents such as your ID proof, proof of residence, or any other documents that justify the need for travel. - Submit the Application: Double-check the information and submit your application. - Wait for Approval: Your application will be reviewed by the authorities. Once approved, you will receive a notification. - Download and Print the E-Pass: Once you receive the confirmation, download the E-Pass and print it out or save it on your phone. How to Apply for E-Pass Scholarship for CBSE Students The E-Pass Scholarship is an initiative aimed at helping students, particularly those in CBSE schools, to receive financial assistance for their education. Here’s how to apply: - Visit the National Scholarship Portal: Go to the official National Scholarship Portal (NSP) at scholarships.gov.in. - Register as a New User: If you're applying for the first time, register by providing details such as your name, date of birth, and mobile number. - Log in to the Portal: Use your registered credentials to log in. - Search for the E-Pass Scholarship: Under the available scholarships, search for the E-Pass Scholarship for CBSE students. - Fill Out the Application Form: Complete the scholarship application form by entering your personal details, academic information, and bank details. - Upload the Required Documents: Attach documents like your mark sheet, income certificate, and other relevant certificates. - Submit the Application: After filling in all the information, submit your application. - Track Application Status: You can track the status of your scholarship application through the NSP. How to Apply for E-Pass Book in Mandal For those needing an E-Pass for Mandal regions, follow these steps: - Access the E-Pass Portal: Visit the specific website set up for Mandal E-Pass applications. - Choose the Apply Option: Find and select the "Apply for E-Pass Book" option. - Enter Personal Details: Provide necessary details such as name, address, and purpose of obtaining the E-Pass. - Upload Supporting Documents: Attach relevant documents like ID proof and any certificates that justify the request for an E-Pass. - Submit the Form: Review the information before submitting the application. - Receive Confirmation: After processing, you will receive confirmation of your E-Pass Book. - Collect or Print the E-Pass Book: Depending on the system, you may need to collect the physical book or print it out from the portal. How to Apply for Karnataka E-Pass To apply for an E-Pass in Karnataka, follow these steps: - Visit the Karnataka Government E-Pass Portal: Go to the official Karnataka government website dedicated to E-Pass applications. - Select the E-Pass Application Link: Click on the "Apply for E-Pass" link. - Complete the Application Form: Fill in the required information such as your name, address, reason for travel, and vehicle details. - Attach Required Documents: Upload necessary documents like ID proof, medical certificates, or any other relevant documentation. - Submit the Application: Carefully review the details before submitting. - Wait for Approval: Once submitted, the application will be reviewed by the authorities. You will be notified of the approval status via SMS or email. - Download and Print the E-Pass: If approved, download and print your E-Pass, or keep a digital copy on your mobile device. These guidelines should help you smoothly apply for an E-Pass in various regions and for different purposes. Ensure all information provided during the application process is accurate to avoid delays or rejection.

Conclusion

In conclusion, applying for an E-Pass is a crucial process that enables individuals to travel legally during restricted periods for essential or emergency purposes. By following the steps outlined—visiting the official portal, filling out the required details, submitting the necessary documents, and tracking your application—you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Always double-check the information provided to avoid any delays in approval. Once approved, keep your E-Pass handy, either in digital form or as a printed copy, to ensure compliance with local regulations.

FAQ's

What is the Fee of an E-Passport in Pakistan? The fee for an e-passport in Pakistan varies depending on the passport's validity and the number of pages required. For a 36-page passport with a validity of 5 years, the fee typically starts at PKR 3,000 for normal processing, while urgent processing costs more. Fees increase for passports with a 10-year validity or 72 pages. It's best to check the official website or local passport office for the most accurate and updated fee structure. How to Get an E-Passport? To get an e-passport, you need to visit your country's designated passport office or apply online through the official portal. Submit the necessary documents, including your national ID card, proof of address, and photographs. After filling out the application form and paying the required fee, your biometric data will be captured. The processing time can vary, but once approved, you will receive your e-passport either by mail or by picking it up from the passport office. What is the Salary for E Pass in Singapore? The minimum salary required for an Employment Pass (E Pass) in Singapore is generally SGD 4,500 per month for most sectors. However, for the financial services sector, the minimum salary starts at SGD 5,000 per month. The salary criteria may vary based on the applicant's experience, qualifications, and the specific industry. What is the Salary for E Pass in Malaysia? In Malaysia, the salary for an Employment Pass (E Pass) depends on the type of pass issued. Typically, the minimum salary for an E Pass ranges from MYR 5,000 to MYR 10,000 per month, depending on the job role, experience, and industry. Highly skilled professionals and managerial positions may attract higher salaries. How Much Does a Malaysia Visa Cost? The cost of a Malaysia visa varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for and your nationality. Generally, the fee ranges from MYR 20 to MYR 200, with additional service charges if applied through an agent. It's advisable to check the latest visa fee on the official Malaysian immigration website or with the nearest Malaysian consulate. What is the Minimum Salary for Work Visa in Malaysia? The minimum salary required for a work visa in Malaysia, specifically the Employment Pass, is generally MYR 5,000 per month. However, for certain categories of skilled workers, this minimum salary may be higher, depending on the industry and the job role. This ensures that the applicant meets the financial requirements to support themselves while working in Malaysia. How Much Bank Balance is Required for Malaysia Work Visa? To apply for a Malaysia work visa, it's recommended to have a bank balance that demonstrates financial stability, typically around MYR 10,000 to MYR 20,000. However, the exact amount can vary depending on the visa type, duration of stay, and the specific requirements set by the employer or immigration authorities. How Much Does a Normal Worker Earn in Malaysia? A normal worker in Malaysia, such as in manufacturing or service industries, typically earns between MYR 1,200 and MYR 2,500 per month, depending on the sector, location, and level of experience. Overtime, bonuses, and allowances can also contribute to the overall earnings. What is the Age Limit to Work in Malaysia? The minimum age to work in Malaysia is 18 years, and there is no specific maximum age limit for foreign workers. However, some work permits may have restrictions or preferences based on age, particularly for skilled or high-ranking positions, where employers might prefer candidates within a certain age range. Also Check it: What is AWS in usgif scholarship Read the full article

[sahilthakkar117]

Lockdown diaries (at Pune, Maharashtra) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cpfsy6KthnB/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[newssy]

Dy CM at BJP Meet

Last Updated: February 17, 2023, 23:23 IST Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. (File Photo: PTI) The BJP used to routinely allege Thackeray, as chief minister, would rarely move out of Mumbai, despite pressing issues brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic and the resultant lockdown, as well as heavy rains distressing farmers. The Bharatiya Janata Party has set a target of…

[treatresortib]

Luxury Resorts Near Mumbai For A Weekend Escape

Taking proper care and safety, a few short distance trips as part of a weekend getaway are possible even in these testing times.

New year is here. It is a new ray of hope. It is also a new dawn of possibilities. Last year was marked by such loss and grief, that being skeptical about this year is definitely true. Since the pandemic is not over yet, it is true. We can easily say that the fight is still on. Last year was different in so many ways. One major change was travel. From small distance travel to school and office, to a long distance journey, both had a major setback. Many holiday leaves of service class people went wasted without any new trip or vacation.

But now, there is yet another change in the calendar. Which means that there are another set of weekends and weekdays. A whole new set of leaves will be available to be used. After staying at home for so long due to social guidelines and lockdown rules, many might be longing for a break. Some might have already started venturing out. With the relaxation of travel rules and guidelines on social gathering, some small travel plans will become possible.

For the citizens of Mumbai, this is a welcome relief. Mumbai is surrounded by beautiful, scenic, natural and peaceful beaches and mountains. Many people love to travel to these weekend getaway near Mumbai locations. Since these places are easily accessible from Mumbai, Pune, Surat, Ahmedabad, etc, they are people's favourite. And since the travel time is less and the locations have nothing much to explore, they form the ideal opportunity for a short break on the weekend.

There are many weekend getaway spots around Mumbai. This is because Mumbai has ocean on one end and the western ghats on the other. Panchgani, Alibaug, Matheran, Lonavala, Khandala, Silvassa, Karjat, Gholvad, etc are all so beautiful. They are natural beauty scenic locations, lying in close proximity to the capital city of Maharashtra. The travel time to these locations ranges from two to five hours by road. And the road trip itself is the beginning of the vacation. This is because the roads traverse through mountains and valleys. Therefore, they have natural beauty and lovely weather all around. Plus, there is so much thrill passing through a bend, a narrow curve or a tunnel. Sometimes there are waterfalls too on the road side!

A holiday on the weekend is the need of the hour. Long distance travel is still risky, getting tickets is still cumbersome. And going to another state means stepping into an unknown surrounding and exposing oneself unnecessarily to the bad situation. Therefore, a weekend holiday checks the boxes. One box for a vacation and the other one for safety. A short trip can happen easily with an own car, or even with a rented one, albeit, which is well sanitised.

Everything said and done, safety should be the primary concern for travel during the pandemic situation. A short trip means less luggage, who mostly. But in any case, a few essentials should always be present in the packed items. A pair is masks, a pair of hand gloves and a bottle of sanitiser per person are a must. Then, face shield could also be used by some. Proper medications for cold and cough, thermometer to check temperature, and some vitamin C pills are also smart travel plans. Have a safe, happy, relaxing, scenic and rejuvenating trip.