Nobel Peace Prize nomination for Bengaluru activist - Nandana Reddy, founder and Director of Development at (CWC)

Nandana Reddy, founder and Director of Development at CWC.
The Concerned for Working Children, Bangalore, has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize 2012, by three members of the Norwegian Parliament, Linda Hofstad Helleland, Gunn Karin Gjul and André Oktay Dahlt.

In their nomination letter sent to the Nobel Committee, they have written: ”Since 1980, Concerned for Working Children (CWC) has contributed to several initiatives with such children’s rights organisations as Bhima Sangha and Makkala Panchayats (children’s councils) in Karnataka to strengthen the influence of children.

The organisation and its network have been pioneers in children’s participation within research, public planning, youth democracy, media and other areas. Few, if any, other local organisations elsewhere have contributed as much to this work. CWC is also an active contributor in the joint international work for the improvement of children’s participation”.

The nomination by the Norwegian parliamentarians is for three organisations that promote the rights of children, Concerned for Working Children, Save the Children, and UNICEF (the United Nations Children's Fund).

Their formal letter ends with these lines, “An award to these three organisations would greatly contribute to a much-needed increase in the worldwide focus and attention on the children’s right to participation.”

During the last three decades, the Concerned for Working Children (CWC) has been working in partnership with children from the most marginalised communities, especially working children, to realise their rights, with emphasis on their right to participation in decision-making processes.

Since 1980, CWC has contributed to various initiatives towards building several child-led organisations, starting with Bhima Sangha, the first- ever children’s own organisation in Asia, by empowering working children in Karnataka to demand realisation of all their rights without conditionalities. CWC has also been facilitating organisations of school-going children and children of migrant communities in coastal Udupi district, in Bellary district and in Bangalore city.

CWC and its various networks have facilitated children to be pioneers in areas of child-led research and information management, where children own their own information; public planning; social mobilisation such as campaigns against child marriages, media advocacy and policy advocacy. It not only advocates children’s rights in all policy discourses, but also enables participation of children in such decision-making processes to ensure their viewpoints get attention.

Accepting this nomination with gratitude, the CWC states: “The credit goes to our primary constituency and partners – working children – and the many battles they have fought in numerous forums at home and around the world for their voices to be heard.

Their struggle has always been a peaceful one and now one of patience as they continue their crusade in an environment that not only does not recognise them as workers, but has criminalised their work.”

The Concerned For Working Children is a nominee for Nobel Peace Prize 2012


Stories of Paramanandayya Sishyulu - పరమానందయ్య శిష్యుల కథలు తెలుగులో - Paramanandayya Sishyula Kathalu - Part 3

Paramanandayya Sishyula Kathalu in Telugu - పరమానందయ్య శిష్యుల కథలు తెలుగులో

Paramanandayya Sishyula Kathalu in Telugu - పరమానందయ్య శిష్యుల కథలు తెలుగులో
 
Paramanandayya Sishyula Kathalu in Telugu - పరమానందయ్య శిష్యుల కథలు తెలుగులో

Paramanandayya Sishyula Kathalu in Telugu - పరమానందయ్య శిష్యుల కథలు తెలుగులో

Paramanandayya Sishyula Kathalu in Telugu - పరమానందయ్య శిష్యుల కథలు తెలుగులో

Paramanandayya Sishyula Kathalu in Telugu - పరమానందయ్య శిష్యుల కథలు తెలుగులో
Paramanandayya Sishyula Kathalu in Telugu - పరమానందయ్య శిష్యుల కథలు తెలుగులో

Paramanandayya Sishyula Kathalu in Telugu - పరమానందయ్య శిష్యుల కథలు తెలుగులో

Paramanandayya Sishyula Kathalu in Telugu - పరమానందయ్య శిష్యుల కథలు తెలుగులో

Paramanandayya Sishyula Kathalu in Telugu - పరమానందయ్య శిష్యుల కథలు తెలుగులో

Paramanandayya Sishyula Kathalu in Telugu - పరమానందయ్య శిష్యుల కథలు తెలుగులో
Paramanandayya Sishyula Kathalu in Telugu - పరమానందయ్య శిష్యుల కథలు తెలుగులో

Paramanandayya Sishyula Kathalu in Telugu - పరమానందయ్య శిష్యుల కథలు తెలుగులో

Paramanandayya Sishyula Kathalu in Telugu - పరమానందయ్య శిష్యుల కథలు తెలుగులో


Read related stories:

1. Paramanandayya Sishyula Kathalu - Stories of Paramanandayya Sishyulu - Part 1
2. Paramanandayya Sishyula Kathalu - Stories of Paramanandayya Sishyulu - Part 2
3. Stories of Paramanandayya Sishyulu - Paramanandayya Sishyula Kathalu - Part 3

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84th Academy Awards Winners List - Oscars 2012 Winners: The Full Winners List

The Full Winners List of the 84th Annual Academy Award winners announced Sunday (26/02/2012):


Best Picture
The Artist (WINNER), The Descendants, Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close, The Help, Hugo, Midnight in Paris, Moneyball, The Tree of Life, War Horse

Actor in a Leading Role
Jean Dujardin (The Artist) WINNER, Demián Bichir (A Better Life), George Clooney (The Descendants), Gary Oldman (Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy), Brad Pitt (Moneyball)

Actor in a Supporting Role
Christopher Plummer (Beginners) WINNER, Kenneth Branagh (My Week with Marilyn), Jonah Hill (Moneyball), Nick Nolte (Warrior), Max von Sydow (Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close)

Actress in a Leading Role
Meryl Streep (The Iron Lady) WINNER, Glenn Close (Albert Nobbs), Viola Davis (The Help), Rooney Mara (The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo),  Michelle Williams (My Week with Marilyn)

Actress in a Supporting Role

Octavia Spencer (The Help) WINNER, Bérénice Bejo (The Artist), Jessica Chastain (The Help), Melissa McCarthy (Bridesmaids), Janet McTeer (Albert Nobbs)

Directing

Michel Hazanavicius (The Artist) WINNER, Alexander Payne (The Descendants), Martin Scorsese (Hugo), Woody Allen (Midnight in Paris), Terrence Malick (The Tree of Life)

Animated Feature Film
Rango WINNER, A Cat in Paris, Chico & Rita, Kung Fu Panda 2, Puss in Boots

Art Direction
Hugo WINNER, The Artist, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2, Midnight in Paris, War Horse

Cinematography
Hugo WINNER, The Artist, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, The Tree of Life, War Horse

Costume Design
The Artist WINNER, Anonymous, Hugo, Jane Eyre, W.E.

Documentary (Feature)

Undefeated WINNER, Hell and Back Again, If a Tree Falls: A Story of the Earth Liberation Front, Paradise Lost 3: Purgatory, Pina

Documentary (Short Subject)

Saving Face WINNER, The Barber of Birmingham: Foot Soldier of the Civil Rights Movement, God Is the Bigger Elvis, Incident in New Baghdad, The Tsunami and the Cherry Blossom

Film Editing
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo WINNER, The Artist, The Descendants, Hugo, Moneyball

Foreign Language Film

A Separation (Iran) WINNER, Bullhead (Belgium), Footnote (Israel), In Darkness (Poland), Monsieur Lazhar (Canada)

Makeup
The Iron Lady WINNER, Albert Nobbs, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2

Music (Original Score)
The Artist (Ludovic Bource) WINNER, The Adventures of Tintin (John Williams), Hugo (Howard Shore), Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (Alberto Iglesias), War Horse (John Williams)

Music (Original Song)
Man or Muppet (The Muppets) WINNER, Real in Rio (Rio)

Short Film (Animated)

The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore WINNER, Dimanche/Sunday (Montreal’s Patrick Doyon), La Luna, A Morning Stroll, Wild Life

Short Film (Live Action)
The Shore WINNER, Pentecost, Raju, Time Freak, Tuba Atlantic

Sound Editing
Hugo WINNER, Drive, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Transformers: Dark of the Moon, War Horse

Sound Mixing
Hugo WINNER, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Moneyball, Transformers: Dark of the Moon, War Horse

Visual Effects
Hugo WINNER, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2, Real Steel, Rise of the Planet of the Apes, Transformers: Dark of the Moon

Writing (Adapted Screenplay)

The Descendants (Alexander Payne and Nat Faxon & Jim Rash) WINNER, Hugo (John Logan), The Ides of March (George Clooney, Grant Heslov and Beau Willimon), Moneyball (Steven Zaillian and Aaron Sorkin; story by Stan Chervin), Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (Bridget O'Connor & Peter Straughan)

Writing (Original Screenplay)

Midnight in Paris (Woody Allen) WINNER, The Artist (Michel Hazanavicius), Bridesmaids (Annie Mumolo & Kristen Wiig), Margin Call (J.C. Chandor), A Separation (Asghar Farhadi)


84th Academy Awards & 2012 Oscars Nomination Announcement



Top 200 Secrets Of Success - Last Series 10 (181-200 secrets out of 200)

181. Study the following evidence of high character:
• Precision & clarity of thought and speech
• Refined and gentle manners
• The power and habit of introspection
• The power of personal growth
• The power to achieve your goals & dreams

182. "Youth is not a time of life; it is a state of mind. People grow old only by deserting their ideals and by outgrowing the consciousness of youth. Years wrinkle the skin, but to give up enthusiasm wrinkles the soul... You are as old as your doubt, your fear, your despair. The way to keep young is to keep your faith young. Keep your self-confidence young.
Keep your hope young." - Dr. L.F. Phelan

183. Explore the healing powers of Chinese herbal medicine and similar Eastern strategies for maintaining a state of perfect health (consult an expert at all times and take a formal course on the subject to gain powerful insights into this most useful area of healing).

184. Be certain to organize your time around the true priorities of your life. As Stephen Covey has noted: "it is easy to say no when there is a deeper yes burning within."
185. Slow down your pace of life. In this complex age, we are running our lives at a frantic pace. Focus on what is truly important and start undertaking activities that will slow you down and rekindle the natural, calm within us. Sit in the grass and watch the blue sky for half an hour - at first, it is not as easy as one would think and the urge is to get up after only a few minutes of such useful relaxation. Once you are used to a healthier pace of living, with regular periods dedicated to the simple pleasures of life, every other activity
will become more efficient and enjoyable.

186. Try eating only fruit and milk for a full day. Fasting is a powerful success strategy of the East that millions use regularly to maintain peak health and mental clarity. By trying this simple practice every few weeks you will notice a surge in your energy level and a lightness in your walk. Big meals require a significant amount of energy that could be better directed toward more productive pursuits.

187. Value your spouse's laugh and keep your partner's picture close by your work desk for inspiration and pleasant thoughts throughout the day.

188. If you are married, have your partner's initials and your own engraved on the inside of your wedding bands along with the date of your marriage. This is useful not only in case the rings are lost but to provide you both with personalized keepsakes that may be passed down to successive generations.
189. The mind is like a garden - as you sow, so shall you reap. When you cultivate it and nurture it, it will blossom beyond your wildest expectation. But if you let the weeds take over, you will never reach your potential. What you put in is what you get out. So avoid violent movies, trashy novels and all other negative influences. Peak performers are meticulous about the thoughts they allow into the gardens of their minds. You truly cannot afford the luxury of a single negative thought.

190. Do a hundred sit ups a day and do not break this habit. Strong abdominal muscles are very helpful to ensuring that you enjoy peak health and injury free days. They also maintain your appearance and confidence level.

191. Be the most honest person that you know. Be trustworthy - worthy of the trust of others.

192. Curb your worldly desires and you will strengthen your will. He who is deeply bound to material things runs into difficulty and unhappiness when they are taken away. Happy people enjoy worldly objects but do not become bound or wedded to them. Live a simple, uncluttered and productive existence. To simplify your life today, consider selling your television, stopping the junk mail, spending less, learning yoga, selling your car,
practising meditation every morning and unplugging your ringing phone once in a while.

193. If you have not laughed today, you have not lived today. Laugh hard and loud. As William James said: "we don't laugh because we are happy, we are happy because we laugh."

194. Read The Charisma Factor - How to Develop Your Natural Leadership Ability by Robert J. Richardson and S. Katharine Thayer. It is a superb book for any aspiring leader, or a current one, who seeks to advance to the next level.

195. Travel often. The perspective offered by visiting new lands is important and allows one to appreciate the existence that we generally take for granted.

196. Each month set a physical fitness goal for yourself. Start to swim in July or learn to ski in January. The key is to arrive at a goal for the month, write it down, consider how to execute it and then, as the NIKE ad says: "Just Do It!".
197. Things are always created twice. There is always the mental creation which precedes the physical creation. Just as plans for a house must first be set down on paper before the house is started, so too should your day be planned within your mind early in the morning before the day begins. Visualize the wonders you desire this life to bring and they will materialize as your subconscious mind starts to focus on the attainment of goals. This is a true law of Nature.

198. Walk to work and notice the wonderful beauty in Nature.

199. Sleep less, spend less, do more, live longer and be greater.

200. Read these secrets over and over and share it with others!


All Links of Top 200 Secrets of Success:

Series 10 Link (181-200 secrets out of 200)
http://www.spoonfeeding.in/2012/02/top-200-secrets-of-success-last-series.html

Series 9 Link (161-180 secrets out of 200)
http://www.spoonfeeding.in/2012/02/top-200-secrets-of-success-series-9-161.html

Series 8 Link (141-160 secrets out of 200)
http://www.spoonfeeding.in/2012/01/top-200-secrets-of-success-series-8-141.html

Series 7 Link (121-140 secrets out of 200)

http://www.spoonfeeding.in/2012/01/top-200-secrets-of-success-series-7-121.html

Series 6 Link (101-120 secrets out of 200)

http://www.spoonfeeding.in/2012/01/top-200-secrets-of-success-series-6-101.html

Series 5 Link (81-100 secrets out of 200)
http://www.spoonfeeding.in/2011/12/top-200-secrets-of-success-series-5-81.html

Series 4 Link (61-80 secrets out of 200)

http://www.spoonfeeding.in/2011/12/top-200-secrets-of-success-series-4-61.html

Series 3 Link (41-60 secrets out of 200)
http://www.spoonfeeding.in/2011/12/top-200-secrets-of-success-series-3-41.html

Series 2 Link (21-40 secrets out of 200)

http://www.spoonfeeding.in/2011/12/top-200-secrets-of-success-series-2-21.html

Series 1 Link (1-20 secrets out of 200)
http://www.spoonfeeding.in/2011/12/top-200-secrets-of-success.html

Hyderabad digs for secret tunnel and hidden treasure - Rs 20,000 crore treasure hidden in Hyderabad cave?




The hunt for a reported treasure trove in the heart of Hyderabad city by the state archaeological department was suspended on Monday afternoon after a two-day digging operation did not yield any results. The search may resume on Tuesday. Mohammed Siddique reports.



Chenna Reddy, director, AP archaeological department, said that the excavation with an earth-mover machine was suspended as they could not find any signs of a cave or tunnel where some people claimed to have seen a treasure trove more than a year ago.

"We have requested the National Mineral Development Corporation to provide us sophisticated geological sensor equipment to pinpoint the location of an underground tunnel," he said.

A team of officials of NMDC visited the site of the excavation in a private school premises in Saifabad area of Hyderabad which is bang opposite the state secretariat.


The NMDC was likely to send a team of experts with equipment to help in the search operation on Tuesday.

The archaeological department personnel started the digging operation at the bottom of the famous Naubat Pahad from inside the school premises on the basis of information provided by a group of nine people including D S Rama Raju, a Coal India Ltd official.

They claimed that a cave was present in the school premises and there was a treasure trove inside. The group also claimed that the treasure was worth Rs 20,000 crore.

The written representation of the nine people was based on the information provided by Mallesh, a mason, who reportedly saw the cave and the treasure four years ago.



Mallesh claimed that he had spotted the cave during the construction of a compound wall. He also claimed that when he went up to the iron gate on the mouth of the cave, he saw two cupboards full of valuables.

"But I kept quiet fearing for my life", he said.

Reddy said that the department decided to take up the excavation as it was necessary to verify the information provided by the people. The group demanded that if a treasure was found, they should be given 20 per cent as per the Treasures Act.

However, other historians and conservation activists have expressed serious doubts about the veracity of such claims. The Vidyaranya School, where the digging took place is run by the family of the ruler of the erstwhile Wanaparthy Samsthan or Raja Rameshwar Rao. The same building was Rao's residence since 1931 until his death, and was known as Green Gates.


City historian Mohammed Safiullah says that it was possible that a cave or tunnel was present in the premises as it was a tradition among the rich, especially during World War II amid fears that Japan would bombard Hyderabad, since the Deccan state was supporting Britain's war efforts.

But Anuradha Reddy, convenor of Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage, ridiculed the claims of a treasure trove or a cave.

Anuradha, who is also a relative of Rameshwar Rao said that she had visited the place several times during her childhood, and said that it was an open ground with no fencing or wall.

"Anyone could have spotted a cave if it actually existed", she said. The family was unhappy that the officials did not take their permission before barging in the school and digging up the ground.



Sajjad Shahed, another conservationist and an expert on the city monuments, expressed his surprise that those claiming to know the treasure trove were silent for such a long time.

"The probe should start from these people. Why did they keep the information with them, and why have they gone to the authorities now," he said.

The state archaeological department had launched a similar treasure hunt in nearby Home Science College after it received the information about a tunnel there. Though it could unearth the tunnel with the help of NMDC last year, no treasure was found.


How to Sleep Better with Simple Experts Tips


You may be sleeping every night, but is it quality sleep? Are you getting up more refreshed and energetic or do you feel more tired the next morning? Is this is a result of a disturbed sleep? Beyond your costly investments in the coir bedding's and soft pillows, you need to be committed to a pattern of sleep.

Let’s help you out with some Xpert tips for a good sleep cycle and for getting proper rest at night.

Off that TV

Too much of everything is bad, be it television or computer, the light emission from both the sets confuses your brain into thinking that it’s still daytime!

So, if you find yourself restless in bed after watching your favorite show on TV or submitting a last minute report through your computer, then it’s time to turn down the lights real low, put on some soothing, soft music and just relax for 15-20 minutes before attempting to catch some sleep.

Drinking Milk

Now don’t confuse milk with coffee, the first one induces sleep while the later drives away the slumber. Milk has an acidic content, which increases serotonin level in the brain, slowing down the active mode of the brain. Even having alcohol and smoking cigarettes at night may disrupt the sleeping pattern and you tend to have a disturbed and poor sleep.

Bedtime Routines
Maintain regular bed habits like taking a hot and relaxing bath just before you hit the bed. I take up a spiritual or philosophical book that makes me sleepy. Some are fond of listening to light music to induce sleep. This will help you sleep better.

No Electronic Items

Don’t keep any electrical items other than the AC or the fan in your bedroom. Let the bedroom serve its true purpose of sleep. Work items like computer or laptop have a negative effect on your sleeping environment.

Switch off the lights, and if possible do not keep any night-lamp, however dim it might be. It is a medically proven fact that any sort of light disturbs the sleeping pattern of the body; there are some growth organs in an adolescent or growing body which function only during the absence of light.

Yoga and Meditation
Practice some yogic postures for a better-relaxed body. Practicing meditation or deep breathing exercises will also relax you and help in relieving you of stress and tension that your body has accumulated all through the day. Remembering all positive things may help you unwind after the day’s stress.

One of the easiest and most relaxing of yoga postures is the Corpse pose, which basically serves as the cool down posture and is done to conclude every yoga class. Lie down on the bed and allow your body to go absolutely limp and feel your muscles softening starting from the toe and moving right up to the crown of your head.

Then deeply breathe in and out for the next few minutes and concentrate and focus your mind on the expansion and contraction of the lungs. Feel the difference in your body as it goes utterly limp and prepared for a restful night.

Avoid Sleeping in the day

Try not to have that noon siesta. You can have quick forty winks if you are feeling too tired, but try not to make it a habit. If you are a bit tired out after the day’s activities, you may have a good, deep dreamless sleep.

Disciplined Sleep

Set a biological clock, get up and go to bed on more or less a fixed time. This disciplined rhythm will help you sleep better and on time.

Light Snack

Sleep will elude you if your stomach is too full or too empty. A light snack just before bedtime will keep you filled and will induce a deep slumber.

Massage

A healthy massage by your spouse will help you relax instantly. The gentle and soothing stroking action relieves the tensed muscles, lulling you to the sleep world.

All said and done, avoid those drugs and pills for sleeping better, they are extremely addictive and if you allow yourself to become dependant on them, they will become a dangerous habit, without which you may not be able to hit the sack. Induce natural and relaxed slumber with all the above-mentioned tips. It’s not that tough and the results are quite satisfactory.

I have personally found soft music meant for meditation to be very relaxing. So much so, that all through the stressful day, I look forward to that tiny spell of time at night when I’m listening to music and drifting off towards peacefulness. Find a way that suits you best and stick to it!

Great Life Principles for Everyone - Layman's 10 Commandments


Somebody has written these beautiful words. Must read and try to understand the deep meaning of it. They are like the ten commandments to follow in life all the time.


1] Prayer is not a "spare wheel" that you pull out when in problem, but it is a "steering wheel" that directs the right way throughout.

2] A Car's WINDSHIELD is so large & the Rear view Mirror is so small? Because our PAST is not as important as our FUTURE. So, Look Ahead and Move on.

3] Friendship is like a BOOK. It takes few seconds to burn, but it takes years to write.

4] All things in life are temporary. If going well, enjoy it, they will not last forever. If going wrong, don't worry, they can't last long either.


5] Old Friends are Gold! New Friends are Diamond! If you get a Diamond, don't forget the Gold! Because to hold a Diamond, you always need a support of Gold!

6] Often when we lose hope and think this is the end, GOD smiles from above and says, "Relax, sweetheart, it's just a bend, not the end!
7] When GOD solves your troubles, you have faith in HIS abilities; when GOD doesn't solve your problems HE has faith in your abilities.
8] A blind person asked St. Anthony: "Can there be anything worse than losing eye sight?" He replied: "Yes, losing your vision!"

9] When you pray for others, God listens to you and blesses them, and sometimes, when you are safe and happy, remember that someone has prayed for you.

10] WORRYING does not take away tomorrow's TROUBLES, it takes away today's PEACE.
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Some New Tasty Recipes with Simple Procedure

Cashew Chocolate 'Ferreros'

WHAT YOU'LL NEED
(MAKES: 50-60 MARBLE SIZED PIECES; TIME: 45 MINS)
· 80 g unsalted butter
· 2 vanilla pods
· 200 g chocolate
· 100 g icing sugar
· 200 g marie biscuits
· 160 g cashew nuts, powdered (leave some whole)
· 80 g mixed dried fruit
· 20 g raisins

HOW TO MAKE IT
· 80 ml port wine
· 80 g condensed milk
· 1cup each chilli flakes and pistachio powder

Crush the Biscuits into small pieces, but not crumbs. Add the hazelnuts, dried fruit and raisins, sprinkle with a little Port wine and set aside. Use a double boiler to do the next step. Place chocolate and butter in a metal bowl, place over a pot of boiling water and allow to melt. Once the chocolate is melted add the icing sugar, salt, the rest of the Port and the condensed milk, mix well and continue cooking, stirring regularly. Add the biscuit mixture. Mix well. Let the mixture cool for 10 - 15 minute (as it starts to thicken and it's easier to work with). Taking small pinches roll into little balls. Roll half in chilli flakes and the other half in pistachio powder, arranging alternately in a box or tray as you go.


Hardy & Delicious Minestrone Soup

WHAT YOU'LL NEED (SERVES 8-10)
· 2 tablespoons olive oil
· 1 small onion, chopped
· 3 cloves garlic, minced
· 1 carrot, peeled and diced fine
· 1 celery stalk, diced fine
· 1 zucchini, diced fine
· 1 cup french beans, diced fine
· 2 (14 ounce) cans diced tomatoes
· 4 cups vegetable broth (stock)

HOW TO MAKE IT
· 2 cups water
· 1(14 ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
· 1cup elbow macaroni, cooked
· 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
· 1 teaspoon dried basil
· Salt and pepper, to taste
· Parmesan cheese-optional, for garnish

Heat olive oil in a large stockpot. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until lightly browned. Add in zucchini, green beans, and diced tomatoes. Stir in vegetable broth and water. Add beans, macaroni, oregano, and basil. Simmer until vegetables and macaroni are tender- about 35 minutes. Season soup with salt and pepper and serve warm. Garnish with parmesan cheese.


HOT, Spicy Nut Mix

WHAT YOU'LL NEED (SERVES 2-6; TIME: 20 MINS )
· 2/3 cup butter
· 1/3 cup honey
· 1 cup hazelnuts
· 1cup pine nuts
· 1cup peanuts
· 1 cup walnuts
· 1 cup almonds
· 1 cup cashew nuts
· 1cup macadamia nuts

HOW TO MAKE IT
· 1 cup pecan nuts
· 3 tablespoons worcestershire sauce
· 2 tablespoons soy sauce
· 11/2 teaspoon salt
· 3 tablespoons amchoor
· 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
· 1 teaspoon ground allspice
· 1 teaspoon ground cloves
· 2 teaspoons chilli flake

In a large microwave safe pan, melt the butter, mix in the honey and stir in the Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, salt, amchoor, cinnamon, allspice, cloves and chilli. Add nuts, mix well and microwave on high for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring every 3 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature; store in a tightly sealed container.


Macadama Crusted Chicken

WHAT YOU'LL NEED (SERVES: 4-6; TIME: 40 MINS)
· 1/2 cup blanched powdered toasted macadamia
· 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
· 11/2 teaspoon paprika flakes
· 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
· 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder
· 1/4 teaspoon salt
· 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
· 11/2 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil

HOW TO MAKE IT
· 4 large egg whites
· 1/2 kg chicken breasts sliced into strips

Preheat oven to 200°C. Line a baking sheet with foil. Set a wire rack on the baking sheet and spray it with oil. Place almonds, flour, paprika, garlic powder, dry mustard, salt and pepper in a bowl and mix well. Transfer the mixture to a shallow dish. Whisk egg whites in a second shallow dish. Add chicken strips and turn to coat. Transfer each strip to the almond mixture and turn to coat evenly. Place on the prepared rack and coat with cooking spray; turn and spray the other side. Bake the chicken fingers until golden brown, crispy and no longer pink in the centre, 20 to 25 minutes.


Rushina's Colourful Ensalada De Elote (Sweet Corn Salad)

WHAT YOU'LL NEED (SERVES 2-4; TIME: 15 MINS)

FOR THE DRESSING
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil 
  • 1/3 cup red wine vinegar 
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • salt and pepper to taste

FOR THE SALAD
  • 2 tomatoes, in small (corn-sized) diced
  • 1 medium onion, diced into small pieces
  • 2 green chiles, chopped fine
  • 2 capsicums, chopped fine
  • 500 g corn, cooked (or canned corn, drained) 
  • 1/2 cup coriander, chopped fine
HOW TO MAKE IT
Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl and mix well. Chill until ready to serve.


Simple Fungi Santa Croce

WHAT YOU'LL NEED (SERVES 4-6)
· 200 g button mushrooms washed
· 200 ml extra virgin oil
· 1/2 cup lerhon juice
· 5-6 cloves of garlic
· Pinch of salt

HOW TO MAKE IT
Carefully wash and dry the mushrooms, With a sharp knife cut gently a cross a couple of millimeters deep on the top of the mushroom. Place on a baking tray for dressing. Chop the Garlic fine, Add to the extra virgin oil and lemon juice, Add the salt and mix well. With a teaspoon drizzle half of this dressing over the mushrooms giving each mushroom a coating. Bake in a pre-heated oven. Remove from the baking tray, place on a serving dish and pour the remaining dressing. Serve with fresh crusty bread


Spicy Aglio Olio E Peperoncino (Chillies)

WHAT YOU'LL NEED (SERVES 4)
· 1 packet cappileni or linguine
· 4 tablespoons Italian extra virgin olive oil
· '/2 cup garlic chopped fine
· 1 tablespoon red chilli flakes
· Salt and freshly milled black pepper

HOW TO MAKE IT
Bring 1 litre of water to a rolling boil, add salt and stir in until dissolved. Drop in the Spaghetti and cook till "al dente" (still slightly hard to the teeth in the middle). Drain and set aside. Heat Olive oil in a small frying pan and, when it is hot, add the garlic, chilli and some freshly milled black pepper. Cook for about 2 mins. To this pan add the cooked Pasta give everything a good toss and serve straight away on warmed pasta plates.

As a variation on this recipe, add some anchovies (6 salted fillets, washed and cut into pieces) to the garlic and oil, add a handful of black or green olives cut into pieces, and saute together until golden brown.


Strawberryliscious Crumble

WHAT YOU'LL NEED (SERVES: 4; TIME : 1 HR)

FOR BERRY MIXTURE
· 2 teaspoons monin syrup
· 2 tablespoon cornstarch
· 3 cups fresh strawberries (or mixed berries)
· 1 cup mixed dry fruit (blueberries, mulberries, raisins, cranberries
· 2 tablespoons brown sugar

CRUMBLE MIXTURE
· 1 cup flour
· 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
· 2 tablespoon chopped hazelnuts
· 1cup muesli
· 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
· 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
· 2 tablespoons marmalade
· 4 tablespoons cold salted butter, cut into small pieces

HOW TO MAKE IT
Mix berries dry fruit, syrup, sugar in a bowl, mix to combine and reserve. Combine dry ingredients and whisk to combine. Add marmalade to mixture. Add in butter and use a pastry blender or two forks and cut butter into mixture. Spread half the mixture on base of baking dish. Add cornflour to berry mixture and mix well and spread over crumble layer in baking dish. Spread the rest of the crumble mixture on top of berry layer. Bake at 180 degrees C for about 30-35 minutes until filling is thick and bubbly and topping is golden brown. Remove from oven; let cool for 20 minutes. Serve warm with Ice cream or spiced custard.

February 14th Valentine's Day - A Brief History of Valentine’s Day


February 14 is St. Valentine’s Day. This day has come to mean flowers, gifts and candlelight for lovebirds, crispy little hearts and cards for grade-schoolers, and bitterness for those left behind. However, the name behind the mushy cards, flowers and gifts sales belonged to a few separate godly men who served Christ early in Church history. At least three different martyrs (sufferers) named Valentine are mentioned in the early metrologies under the date of February 14.

At least two Valentines were martyred under Roman Emperor Claudius II (AD 268 – 270), who is known for his sound beating of the Goths. The majority of his reign was spent at war and fighting rebellion and opposition. His devotion to conquering led the Emperor to declare that no young men of fighting age could be married; they needed to be focused on being soldiers. Yet, according to tradition, a Christian pastor named Valentine opposed Claudius’ decree and married young Roman soldiers in secret. When this illegal activity was discovered, Valentine was killed.
 

Another tradition tells of a young man named Valentine who was jailed when Claudius II forbade Christianity. The Emperor declared Christianity treasonous by definition since no Christians would worship Caesar as Lord. Like other Christians, Valentine was imprisoned for his faith. But, while in prison, he continued to minister the Gospel of Christ, even to his jailors. He befriended one jailor, who asked him to pray for his blind adopted daughter. Valentine prayed for the girl and she gained her eyesight. Valentine had the chance to witness to the jailor and his whole family and a large number of them believed in Jesus. When the news reached the Emperor that Valentine was making converts even while in prison, he had Valentine beheaded. According to the story, young Valentine sent a note to the healed girl just before his execution, signing it,” From your Valentine”.

St. Valentine’s Day, while honouring the saints who were martyred near that day, was not it seems associated with romantic love until the time of Chaucer. In Chaucer’s “Parliament of Fouls” composed around 1380, he stated: For this was sent on Seynt Valentyne’s day When every foul cometh there to choose his mate.
 
As St. Valentine’s Day arrives, and sweethearts exchange cards and gifts, may we be encouraged by the truly unselfish love of Christ – and his servants who died so that the Gospel could be spread on to us.

Top 200 Secrets Of Success - Series 9 (161-180 secrets out of 200)

161. Each day, do two things that you do not like doing. This may be the preparation of a report you have been putting off or shining your shoes. It does not matter how small the task, just do it! Soon these chores will not seem so bad, your personal power will increase and your productivity will soar. Try it because this is an age-old technique for building strength of character.
162. True happiness comes from only one thing: achievement of goals, whether they are personal, professional or otherwise. You are happiest when you feel you are growing. When you feel that you are contributing and advancing in the direction of your dreams, you will notice that you have boundless energy and vitality. Time spent on activities which offer little reward aside from a fleeting feeling of relaxation (television watching is the best example), is time lost forever. Relaxation is essential but chose the most effective means of renewal and spend your time in productive pursuits that will slowly move you along the path of accomplishment. Happiness comes from doing - not sleeping.

163. Napoleon III of France had a special ability to remember the names of all those he met. His secret was to say "so sorry, I missed your name" after being introduced to a new person. This would cause the name to be repeated and reinforced within his memory. If the name was difficult, he would ask for the proper spelling.

164. The sages of China have held a basic life philosophy for thousands of years: develop an indomitable spirit along with courtesy and integrity. The repetition of these three traits will make you an exceptionally powerful individual respected by all. Exert your effort and personal influence to attain these qualities.

165. A valuable technique for defeating negative and self-limiting thoughts that can hamper you from attaining peak performance is the mental interrupt device. When a negative thought enters your consciousness, first you must become aware of it and have a strong desire to remove it for good.

To do this, interrupt the negative train of thought by doing something to break and banish the self-limiting pattern. When the bad thought enters, you may pinch yourself and say, "I am strong and weak thoughts are gone", or you may shout out loud or do anything that will divert your attention and remove the negative focus. By practising this technique, you will see a marked decrease in the negative thoughts that most people have, paving the way to the mindset of a true winner.
166. Taking time from your busy work and family schedule to focus on personal growth activities is essential and is never to be considered a waste. Taking one hour from your hectic morning to watch kids playing in a nearby park or to take a brisk walk might seem like a poor use of time to some. But by making more time for life's simple pleasures and bringing more balance into your day, you will make the remaining hours far more
productive and effective. You cannot do good unless you feel good. When you are serene, relaxed and enthusiastic you are also more productive, creative and dynamic. This is something that has been proved time and time again and yet we consistently get caught up in the apparent immediacy of our routine and fail to see the forest for the trees.

167. Read more, learn more, laugh more and love more.

168. Pick five relationships that you desire to improve over the next six months. Write out the names of these people and under each name detail why you want to improve the relationship, how you plan to do so and in what time frame. This is simply another facet of goal setting - the practice which will always yield excellent results in any of life's fields. Be committed to being a better parent, friend and citizen. Be creative in the steps
you take to show your appreciation and respect for your loved ones. Sending notes is fine but consider unique and thoughtful measures ranging from a romantic picnic in the country with your partner to an early morning fishing trip with an old friend.

169. Remember the power of prayer.

170. An excellent investment in your personal growth is the six tape series of Reverend Norman Vincent Peale entitled "The Power of Positive Thinking". Get it and listen to it over and over. It is packed full of strategies and techniques that, without fail, will ensure that you live a long, happy, productive and prosperous life.
171. Consider purchasing a pocket organizer which may prove to be an excellent tool for scheduling, recording your commitments and keeping the responsibilities of your life in fine order. One can be purchased at a reasonable price.

172. Browse second-hand bookstores every few months searching for lost treasures of character-building books. You will find gems on public speaking, improving your habits, time management, personal health and other important subjects for low prices. Some of these older texts are the very best and come from an age where every young person was under an obligation to develop discipline and good life habits regularly.

173. Read The Magic of Believing by Claude M. Bristol. It will allow you to release the powerful forces which most certainly exist in your mind but may presently be untapped.

174. Be known as someone with a cool head, warm heart and great character. Your presence on this earth will long be remembered.

175. It has been said that doing something for others is the highest form of religion. Every week, out of the 168 hours available, spend a few in service to others. Many say that such selfless service soon becomes a key focus within their lives. Give your time at a seniors home or to needy children. Teach someone how to read or offer to give a public lecture on the subject of your expertise. Simply take action and do something to leave a legacy.

176. Fill your home with bright, fresh flowers. This is one of the best investments you can make. Let the sounds of great music, loud laughter and good fun fill the oasis of your home.

177. Get to know and enjoy your neighbors. They make life more pleasant and can provide helpful resources when you least expect it.
178. Recognize the power of mantras and the repetition of positive, powerful words. Indian yogis have employed this technique for over 4000 years to live tranquil, productive and focused lives. Create your own personal mantra which you can repeat daily to enhance your character and strengthen your spirit.

179. When the breath is still and strong, so is the mind.

180. Use the following visualization from time to time. Sit in a quiet place and picture that you will be on the earth for only another day. Who would you call, what would you say and what would you do? These questions will give you some important insights into what outstanding actions you must endeavor to complete.


All Links of Top 200 Secrets of Success:

Series 10 Link (181-200 secrets out of 200)
http://www.spoonfeeding.in/2012/02/top-200-secrets-of-success-last-series.html

Series 9 Link (161-180 secrets out of 200)
http://www.spoonfeeding.in/2012/02/top-200-secrets-of-success-series-9-161.html

Series 8 Link (141-160 secrets out of 200)
http://www.spoonfeeding.in/2012/01/top-200-secrets-of-success-series-8-141.html

Series 7 Link (121-140 secrets out of 200)

http://www.spoonfeeding.in/2012/01/top-200-secrets-of-success-series-7-121.html

Series 6 Link (101-120 secrets out of 200)

http://www.spoonfeeding.in/2012/01/top-200-secrets-of-success-series-6-101.html

Series 5 Link (81-100 secrets out of 200)
http://www.spoonfeeding.in/2011/12/top-200-secrets-of-success-series-5-81.html

Series 4 Link (61-80 secrets out of 200)

http://www.spoonfeeding.in/2011/12/top-200-secrets-of-success-series-4-61.html

Series 3 Link (41-60 secrets out of 200)
http://www.spoonfeeding.in/2011/12/top-200-secrets-of-success-series-3-41.html

Series 2 Link (21-40 secrets out of 200)

http://www.spoonfeeding.in/2011/12/top-200-secrets-of-success-series-2-21.html

Series 1 Link (1-20 secrets out of 200)
http://www.spoonfeeding.in/2011/12/top-200-secrets-of-success.html

Akbar and Birbal Stories in Telugu and English - అక్బర్ బీర్బల్ కథలు - Brief History of Birbal - Part 1

Akbar and Birbal Stories in Telugu and English - అక్బర్ బీర్బల్ కథలు - Brief History of Birbal

Akbar and Birbal Stories in Telugu and English - అక్బర్ బీర్బల్ కథలు - Brief History of Birbal
  
Akbar and Birbal Stories in Telugu and English - అక్బర్ బీర్బల్ కథలు - Brief History of Birbal
Akbar and Birbal Stories in Telugu and English - అక్బర్ బీర్బల్ కథలు - Brief History of Birbal
 
Akbar and Birbal Stories in Telugu and English - అక్బర్ బీర్బల్ కథలు - Brief History of Birbal

Akbar and Birbal Stories in Telugu and English - అక్బర్ బీర్బల్ కథలు - Brief History of Birbal
Akbar and Birbal Stories in Telugu and English - అక్బర్ బీర్బల్ కథలు - Brief History of Birbal

Akbar and Birbal Stories in Telugu and English - అక్బర్ బీర్బల్ కథలు - Brief History of Birbal
Akbar and Birbal Stories in Telugu and English - అక్బర్ బీర్బల్ కథలు - Brief History of Birbal
Akbar and Birbal Stories in Telugu and English - అక్బర్ బీర్బల్ కథలు - Brief History of Birbal


Introduction of Birbal Stories


Birbal Stories are very well known and popular in India among all ages of people. They are also called by another name Akbar-Birbal Stories.

There was a Mogul Emperor in India, Akbar The Great (1542-1605). His full name was Jalaludden Mohammed Akbar Padshah Ghazi and he ruled India from 1560 to 1605. He himself was illiterate, but he invited several learned people in his court. Among these people, nine were very famous and were called Nav Ratna (nine jewels of the Mogul Crown) of his court. Among these nine jewels, five people were more famous - Tansen, Todarmal, Abul Fazal, Maan Singh and Birbal.

1. Tansen ... A Great Singer
2. Dasvant ... A Great Painter
3. King Todarmal ... A Financial Wizard
4. Abdu us-Samad ... A Brilliant Calligrapher and Designer of Imperil Coins
5. Abul Fazal ... A Great Historian ( whose brother was Faizi )
6. Faizi ... A Great Poet
7. Mir Fareh-ullah Shirazi ... Financier,Philosopher,Physician & Astronomer
8. King Maan Singh ... A Great Man known for His Chivalry
9. Birbal ... A Great Man known for His Valuable Advice

Akbar's son Prince Sultan Salim, later known as Jehangir wrote that nobody could create out that Akbar was an illiterate. Akbar was a extremely hard-working King. It is also said about him that he slept only three hours a night.

Birbal (1528-1583) is definitely one of the most popular figures in Indian history equally regarded by adults and children. Birbal's duties in Akbar's court were mostly administrative and military but he was a very close friend of Akbar too, because Akbar loved his wisdom, funniness and delicate humor. He was a minister in the administration of Mogul Emperor Akbar and one of the members of inner council of nine advisors. He was a poet and an author too.
It is believed that he was a son of poor Braahman of Trivikrampur on the banks of River Yamuna. According to a popular legend, he died on an expedition to Afghanistan at the head of a large military force due to treachery. It is also said that when Birbal died, Akbar mourned him for several months.

The exchanges between Akbar and Birbal have been recorded in many volumes. Many of these have become folk stories in Indian tradition. Birbal's collection of poetry available under the pen name Brahm are preserved in Bharatpur Museum, Rajsthan, India.


1. Birbal Stories: Birbal Identifies Thief

One fine morning, a minister from Emperor Akbar's court had gathered in the assembly hall.

He informed the Emperor that all his valuables had been stolen by a thief the previous night.

Akbar was shocked to hear this because the place where that minister lived was the safest place in the kingdom.

He invited Birbal to solve the mystery. Akbar said "It is definitely not possible for an outsider to enter into the minister's house and steal the valuables. This blunder is definitely committed only by another minister of that court." Saying so, he arranged for a donkey to be tied to a pillar. He ordered all the courtiers to lift the donkey's tail and say "I have not stolen."
Birbal added "Only then we can judge the culprit." After everyone had finished, he asked the courtiers to show their palm to him. All the courtiers except Alim Khan had a black patch of paint on their palm. Birbal had actually painted the donkey's tail with a black coat of paint. In the fright, the guilty minister did not touch the donkey's tail at all. Thus Birbal once again proved his intelligence and was rewarded by the king with 1000 gold coins.


2. Birbal Stories: Birbal Denies Rumor

One day a man stopped Birbal in the street and began narrating his woes to him.

"I've walked twenty miles to see you," he told Birbal finally, "and all along the way people kept saying you were the most generous man in the country."

Birbal knew the man was going to ask him for money.

"Are you going back the same way?" he asked.

"Yes," said the man.

"Will you do me a favor?"

"Certainly," said the man. "What do you want me to do?"

"Please deny the rumor of my generosity," said Birbal, walking away.


3. Birbal Stories: Birbal Betrays Himself

Birbal was missing. He and the emperor had a quarrel and Birbal had stormed out of the palace vowing never to return.

Now Akbar missed him and wanted him back but no one knew where he was.

Then the emperor had a brainwave. He offered a reward of 1000 gold coins to any man who could come to the palace observing the following condition. The man had to walk in the sun without an umbrella but he had to be in the shade at the same time.

"Impossible," said the people.

Then a villager came carrying a string cot over his head and claimed the prize.
"I've walked in the sun but at the same time I was in the shade of the strings of the cot," he said.

It was a brilliant solution. On interrogation the villager confessed that the idea had been suggested to him by a man living with him.

"It could only be Birbal!" said the emperor, delighted.

Sure enough it was Birbal and he and the emperor had a joyous reunion.


See other Parts:
  1. Akbar & Birbal Stories in Telugu and English - Brief History of Birbal - Part 2
  2. Mughal Emperor Akbar and Birbal Famous Stories in Telugu and English - Part 3

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