Natural hurry

Natural hurry

There is a saying in Hindi which translates into, “Whatever happens, happens for the good.”

Nature has proved this once again.

For some years, I have been keenly following the flowering process of date palm trees and the period after it, till it is harvested. Normally, this process happens during July to October.

However, last year, due to the change in weather pattern or due to the unnoticed climate differentiation, it didn’t happen during that period.

This year, the process started in March and by now, the dates in the palm trees are ready to harvest. It is as if the nature has hurried itself to be part of the festivities associated with the Holy Month of Ramadan.

It is an amazing feeling to watch the date palm trees full of ripened dates wherever one gets to go around in the UAE. Indeed, the nation is blessed with this hidden wealth, which silently forms a major export item of the country.

If you have missed following the process, keep an eye from now on. You will have many stories to tell based on it.

Ramesh Menon

Short Take - Gulf Today 26 July 2014

Strict rules and training needed - Letters to the editor - The National

Strict rules and training needed

It is very sad to read that an accident of the kind described in your article (38 workers injured in Sharjah bus crash, July 22) has happened on our roads once again.

Looking at the efforts by the authorities to prevent such accidents and the results achieved thus far, it is promising to note that they have become less frequent.

However, in order to get even better results, there is one option that ought to be implemented. The law should be amended to give no leeway above the stated speed limit for drivers of commercial or public transport vehicles. This would include 15-seater vans and minibuses, as well as full-size buses and trucks.

If enforced correctly and with strict punishment for drivers who breach it, this law ought to result in fewer accidents due to speeding and negligence.

In conjunction with this, all transport companies should be required to give their drivers training and to update their road-safety awareness skills.

Ramesh Menon, Abu Dhabi

To read it in original please visit The National online

Safe-driving signs on lorries are not what they seem - Letters to the editor - Dt. The National 21 July 2014

Safe-driving signs on lorries are not what they seem

Letters to the Editor

July 20, 2014 Updated: July 20, 2014 03:36 PM

I refer to “Am I driving safely?” No, but there is no point in calling the number on the lorries (July 19), about the phone numbers displayed on heavy vehicles.

Many lorry and bus operators have found ways to get around this initiative. I cannot remember how many times I have been unable to reach the displayed number when I have witnessed a road-rage incident and tried to report it immediately.

There are three different scen­arios. One is where one or two digits are deliberately erased from the contact number; another is to provide a landline number that is never answered. A third is to display the number of a mobile phone that the offending driver himself is carrying.

When I do get through to the truck or bus operators, I never frame it as a complaint. Instead, I word it as a precaution, suggesting they keep their eye on a particular driver. Some companies have ­acknowledged my efforts and ­conveyed their thanks.

I feel that there is a need for a simple, easy-to-dial number to report all cases of bad driving. Companies operating lorries and buses should be required to register a contact number with the authorities, who would act on the complaint.

Road safety should be considered an integral part of our daily lives. Let us not ignore its importance, even for a minute.

Ramesh Menon, Abu Dhabi

Read more: http://www.thenational.ae/opinion/feedback/safe-driving-signs-on-lorries-are-not-what-they-seem#ixzz384SefrXQ
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Noble deeds - Gulf Today - Short Take Dt. 19 July 2014

Noble deeds

Many a time, I have felt that we have no control over happenings in our day-to-day life. But, when I rethink, I strangely find that we do have a major role in all of them. It is just that we don’t realise the possible intervention angle.

A close friend fighting cancer since a long time passed away last week. He left us as if a job half done and half spoken about. During the final days of his life, he was not in a conscious state. Attending the funeral, I heard his brother mentioning to someone that my friend never ever expected it to happen so fast.

He might have left this world, family and friends with untold miseries. When I look at it, his noble deeds to the community weigh more in terms of hidden wealth to the society and generation that looked upon him.

He was a community person and always believed in highlighting the issues affecting the society either directly or through the press. Several times, we exchanged topics and discussed them. Published and unpublished efforts of his silent societal involvement are many. That is what will leave him immortal in the days ahead in the eyes of all.

My late friend PC Ummer was a man with a mission. At any available opportunity, he was there at the India Social and Cultural Centre Abu Dhabi and other social organisations to share his knowledge and expertise, participating in summer camps and other activities.

Ramesh Menon

To read it in original, please visit Gulf Today online

A smile that conveyed a million thanks

On behalf of TOTAL, we were extremely happy to inform all that we distributed the “Spirit of Giving” bags to the ladies at Mussaffah camp on Wednesday, 16th July 2014 evening before Iftar.

It would not have been possible for us without the generous support of each one of our colleagues who participated with a human touch.  The team effort displayed in this CSR initiative was exemplary.

We are also grateful to the volunteers who came forward in getting the boxes to Mussaffah and complete the distribution process as smooth as possible.

This event is an important first step of a series of CSR initiatives lined up for the year ahead.

It is part of a sustained effort to convey that using all available opportunities TOTAL is committed to bring out better energy among the staff as well as the community around.

Thanking you and wish you all once again a blessed Ramadan.

Joy of the seeing the ripened Dates - Our Story of the Date Palm Trees

I told you well ahead, the joy of seeing a date palm tree full of ripened fruits is beyond words can say. Enjoy the blessed season. They say in hindi, "Jo hotha hey acha ke liye hotha hey". The delay of flowering due to the global warming is overcome by the timing the dates have ripened and ready to be harvested for the festive season of Eid al Fitr. God bless all to have a peaceful, prosperous and joyous season ahead.

Community reporter passes away after battle with cancer

Community reporter passes away after battle with cancer

P. C. Ummer, a regular contributor to the Community Report section, dies at 56.

By Ramesh Menon Gulf News Reader and Community Reporter

Published: 15:00 July 13, 2014

Abdul Hamid Ahmad, Editor-in-Chief of Gulf News met with Gulf News reader P.C Ummer and his two sons Mohamed and Sameer Mohamed at the Gulf News today.

P.C. Ummer, an active participant of social and cultural activities, award-winning Gulf News community reporter and family man, died yesterday in Abu Dhabi on July 13, 2014, at the age of 56. He is survived by his wife and two sons.

He was an alumni of Christ College Irinjalakuda. During our college days we were involved in literary and cultural activities, as well as student welfare issues. After graduation, we didn’t know whether our paths would meet again.

Moving to Abu Dhabi in the late 1980s, I regularly contributed to community issues through letters and reports in Gulf New. As I followed the news with keen interest, I noticed a familiar name appearing in the same sections.

Recognising the person, I obtained his address from Gulf News and contacted him. Coincidentally, he, too, was residing in Abu Dhabi.

With great happiness I found that it was none other than my college mate, whom I thought I would never meet again.

He covered a lot of community issues in his work with Gulf News, just as I did. Many of his suggestions were eye openers to the authorities to rectify issues identified.

A while ago he confided in me about being diagnosed with cancer. A man of strong will and like any other cancer patient, he did not discuss much about it after that.

Ummer kept himself cheerful and was an active participant in activities of the India Social and Cultural Centre and other community associations in the Capital.

Last week, I got to know that he was in intensive care struggling for his life. He remained in a critical condition for almost a week. Being a person who doesn’t give up easily, his family and friends kept hope that he would recover. However, that was not to be.

One more victim of cancer, who had to suddenly put a full stop to his life and leave with unfinished words and deeds for the family and society they belong to.

It once again brings a pressing issue to the fore. Treatment for cancer is very expensive and it is high time authorities in all countries came out with more subsidised treatments for cancer patients. May his soul rest in peace.

Editor’s Note: Gulf News expresses its deepest condolences at the passing away of P.C.Ummer. An active community reporter and voice of the people, he helped raise many important issues to the fore. He won community report awards over the years for his work.

The most recent example was his report, ‘Abu Dhabi bus stops falling apart’, that was published on April 21, 2013. He raised the issue of ignored bus stops and lack of air-conditioned shelters for passengers in the Markaziya area in Khalidiya, Abu Dhabi. Four months later, new bus shelters had been constructed in the area.

Our prayers are with his family and friends in this hour of need.

Obituary - P.C. Ummer - end of a Community conscious citizen

With profound sadness, informing you all of the demise of P.C.Ummer at Abu Dhabi this morning. Please pray for the peace of the departed soul.

with prayers,

Ramesh

Sunday, 13 July 2014

Changing life - Gulf Today - Short Take - 12 July 2014

Changing life

Today, I am in an uneasy frame of mind. While parting is difficult, departing is more difficult.

The first is about my home in Abu Dhabi. It was my home away from home and I had been living in that flat for about 14 years now. My house and the neighbourhood were dear to me.

The building was old with limited facilities and age took its toll. It was declared uninhabitable by the municipality. All the tenants had to look for accommodation elsewhere.

They say, a change is an opportunity. I parted with many old items that I had earlier thought I couldn’t live without. It was a difficult choice to select and pack what I wanted and what I didn’t.

Finally, I moved in to a new place. I am confident I will soon blend in here.

The second one is about a college mate. During our college days we were actively involved in literary and cultural activities, as well as student welfare issues. After graduation, we didn’t know whether our paths would meet again.

I regularly contributed to community issues through reports in local dailies. As I followed the news with keen interest, I noticed a familiar name appearing in the same columns.

Recognising the identity of the person, I gathered his address and contacted him.

It was none other than my college mate whom I thought I would never meet again.

We travelled almost the same path with regards to community issues. Many of our suggestions helped the administrative authorities rectify issues identified without delays.

A few years ago he confided in me about being diagnosed with cancer.

A man of strong will, he did not discuss much about it. He kept himself cheerful and participated in activities of the India Social and Cultural Center and other associations.

Last week, I came to know that he was in the ICU struggling for his life. It was difficult to meet him at the ward in his partially conscious state.

It has been almost a week now and he remains in the same critical condition. We keep hoping that he will recover and return to his normal self.

Treatment for cancer is very expensive and it is high time authorities in all countries came out with subsidised treatment for cancer patients.

Ramesh Menon

Gulf Today, Short Take – 12 July 2014

To read it in original, please visit Gulf Today online.

One more victim

One of my close friends and college mate is in a critical condition, fighting for life at a prominent hospital in Abu Dhabi. We travelled the same path in college, working for the magazine committee and other cultural and sports activities. After a long gap, I found him back here through the columns of Gulf News and surprisingly he too took several pressing community issues with the authorities and highlighted it through the Community Report section. This evening, he is fighting for his life, one another victim of Cancer. Please, please pray for his speedy recovery. I really do not want to see him going back this way this soon.

With tearful prayers for him.

Ramesh Menon, Abu Dhabi

Monday, 7th July 2014

Of writing skills and technology - Khaleej Times - 7 July 2014

Of writing skills and technology

/ 7 July 2014

This is in response to the write-up “Get it Write”. It gave an interesting reading and insight to a pressing problem. The advent of technology is already in its successful path of killing the art of writing using pen and pencil. It is, indeed, a dangerous situation.

Concurring with the observation of Nishad Sayyed, I really feel bad to see little children tagging along parents mending their ways either on the iPhone or iPad. To make children 
familiar with the technology from an early age is good. However, making them totally addicted and dependent on them is to be pondered.

The result of the lack of interest in promoting writing at an early age is seen by the reduction of children participating in activities related to writing poetry or short stories. Time and effort has to be devoted to change this situation. How many parents and teachers take an effort in this direction may bring about the intended improvement. How can it be done has to be the next step of this important focus.

How difficult is it now for an expert to analyse a person when the art of writing itself is dying. I have been interested in this field for a long time and have been learning and collecting the handwritten scripts of those whom I come across for my study and analysis.

 It is common these days that we get to see children not expressing their mind through pen and pencil and use abbreviated terminologies to communicate through mobile or social media. To read their mind is not so easy as they get them enclosed into a shell by themselves.

What can we do next to see 
a change? Parents should make it a point to create an interest among children from a young age to start reading and writing in full and complete. On the other hand teachers and academicians of all types have a bigger role to teach them the importance of reading and 
writing it right.

Community organisations too have an important role to come out with competitions to encourage the development of literary skills.

Ramesh Menon, Abu Dhabi

To read it in original, please visit Khaleej Times online.

For greater good - Short Take - Gulf Today, Dt. 05 July 2014

For greater good

It has been a routine for me since some years to meticulously photograph places that I visit and activities I participate in, and to then post them on my Facebook group or share it with friends or followers on various social networks.

I do it for various reasons. First, is to improve my photography skills. The second is to promote the artist or the activity I attend and give a kind of selfless contribution to encourage them.

However, the most important reason is to share with my parents and immediate family, who live far away, these precious moments so that they may enjoy them as well.

In order to meet professional and personal commitments, I tend to face a tight schedule, and this method has helped me avoid a detailed explanation of how my day evolved.

An interesting fact that came to my notice was the different reactions of those who chose to be in my friends or followers list. Some of them consistently encourage me. Some remain completely silent, although they keenly observe every post of mine. And some others come up with constructive criticism, which I always take note of in a positive way and act according to merit.

Many a time this has resulted in a positive contribution to the society, whether it is here in the UAE or in India.

Some actions were dangerous, since I would report abnormal practices or dangerous situations. Before submitting these to relevant authorities or the media I have asked myself a hundred times whether or not I should submit them as community reports of significance. The option chosen does prove to be right as they resulted in intended positive outcome.

At times, there were detrimental remarks that held my thoughts and deeds from moving ahead. Working on them again and again, weighing them in a balance, I chose the positives rather than the negatives and carried on.

Why should I let my feelings known to others? Why should I not?

A difficult choice, this is always on my mind, each time I come out with something new.

I strive my best to keep my mind and thoughts to contribute to the betterment of those with me and around me in my community. The choice is therefore theirs, to be with me or not.

Be supportive and an occasional like, a supporting comment, or a share of my post among your friends or family will not do any harm. It’s an assurance you can trust on.

Ramesh Menon

To read it in original, please visit Gulf Today, online

Highway code is necessary - Letters to the editor - The National Dt. 1 July 2014

Highway code is necessary

I refer to the article Safety expert advocates UAE federal highway code (June 30). The code is particularly necessary to keep heavy vehicles under control. They should never be given the extra 10 or 20kph speed allowance.

The moment you give that opportunity to these drivers, they tend to break the rules. In other words, if the maximum speed limit is 100kph for heavy vehicles, they should stay below it.

Many times, I have been in situations where buses and lorries came flashing their headlights from behind. The RTA buses are no exception. They should also be made to stay within the last two lanes, so as to keep the rest of the lanes free for lighter vehicles.

There is a rule that public and commercial vehicles should display specific phone numbers on which complaints can be made in case of dangerous driving. But proper monitoring is needed to make this system effective. A dedicated centralised contact number will be more helpful. I am sure consistent efforts will help make our roads safer and better. Let us all work together towards this objective.

Ramesh Menon, Abu Dhabi

To read it in original, please visit The National online.

Fasting can improve your health - Gulf News Dt. 29 Jue 2014

Fasting can improve your health

It will be a good idea for non-Muslims to experience a day of fasting followed by iftar

•             By Ramesh Menon

•             Published: 16:08 June 28, 2014

It is a divine time to become engaged in the community by investing time, skills or other resources at a personal level. It is highly important that people abide by the dress code policy especially during Ramadan, as many visitors remain unaware of the cultural sensitivities of the country.

Malls, hotels, buses, taxis, train and airline centres should put up flyers, to remind people of the courtesy policies during Ramadan. Many tourists coming from Western countries are not aware of the dress code policies and as a result, they might end up touring the country wearing shorts or sleeveless shirts during Ramadan, unaware that this might disturb the people observing the holy month.

It will be useful to spread knowledge on how to keep healthy while keeping to religious obligations. Healthy fasting during Ramadan is of prime importance as people tend to get more obese and diabetic due to irregular eating and overeating after ending their fast. Fasting during Ramadan can improve a person’s health, but if a correct diet is not followed, it can possibly worsen your condition. Therefore, the important factor is not the fast itself, but rather what is consumed in the non-fasting hours.

Non-muslims should be considerate to the feelings of those who are fasting. For those who are new to the country, remember that eating, drinking and smoking in public during Ramadan is forbidden as Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset during this time. It shows a lack of sensitivity if some people eat while others fast for over 17 hours. Don’t play loud music because neighbours could be fasting and/or resting.

             

It will be a good idea for non-muslims to experience a day of fasting followed by an iftar.

I am sure this will give a chance to learn self-restraint and will highlight the importance of caring and sharing.

Also, due to environmental changes, it will be the same time the date palm trees will be ready for harvesting the ripened dates, the nation’s hidden wealth.

Both join together as a double sign of good days ahead and let the country prosper in all ways.

To read it in original, please visit Gulf News Online

Safe driving - Gulf Today - Short Take Dt 28 June 2014

Safe driving

It is the Holy Month of Ramadan and a blessed season when people tend to be more religious and show kindness to the poor and needy. This year, due to the long duration of daytime, the fasting hours will be more.

Summer is at its peak making life outside during noon hours difficult. Luckily, the school holidays have started. The roads may be less crowded as many people will be on vacation.

However, one factor that is a cause of worry is the driving habit of some people before Iftar timing. Whatever the reasons, the tendency to drive fast and furious is extremely dangerous.

The energy and alertness level during this time will be less for many due to fasting. It is extremely important to drive cautiously and carefully during this particular period.

Safety at all times should be kept in mind and practised as one of the core values in our lives.

Ramesh Menon

Gulf Today, Short Take Dt. 28 June 2014

To read it in original, please visit Gulf Today online.

Garnering support - Letters to the Editor - Gulf News 27 June 2014

Garnering support

It is impressive and highly promising to note the increased production forecast for UAE farm produce in the coming season (‘10,000 tonnes more vegetables grown at Abu Dhabi farms,’ Gulf News, June 23). The effort and amount of technology expertise added with financial support is huge and each of the participating farmers should be highly praised to keep the interest in the field of agriculture ongoing.

With the weather conditions not in favour, it is of great importance to encourage more people to come forward and actively participate in agriculture that suits the nation. With regards to garnering additional support, the produce should be allocated to special areas at all the leading supermarkets and be given prominence in terms of pricing and marketing.

From Mr Ramesh Menon

Abu Dhabi

To read it in original, please visit, GULF NEWS online.

No tolerance for drunks on planes - Letters to the editor - The National - 26 June 2014

No tolerance for drunks on planes

A friend of mine recently flew in to Abu Dhabi from Mumbai on a non-UAE airline.

On-board the plane were many workers who had been drinking before the flight took off.

Despite seeing them in that condition, the airline staff served alcohol to them during the flight. This resulted in them becoming totally intoxicated, spilling their food and causing inconvenience to other passengers.

I was very sad to hear of this scenario. Airlines flying to the UAE should have guidelines that ensure that people who have consumed a high level of alcohol before a flight are not allowed to board.

Ramesh Menon, Abu Dhabi

To read it in original, please visit The National online.

Letters: on - 10,000 tonnes more vegetables grown at Abu Dhabi farms

10,000 tonnes more vegetables grown at Abu Dhabi farms

It is impressive and highly promising to note the increased production forecast for UAE farm produce in the coming season. The effort and amount of technology expertise added with financial support is huge and each of the participating farmers should be highly praised to keep the interest in the field of agriculture ongoing with sustained interest. With the weather conditions not in favor and with all the global warming issues kept in mind, it is of great importance to encourage more locals to come forward and actively participate in agriculture that suits the nation. In order to garner additional support, the produce should be allocated a special corners at all the leading supermarkets and be given prominence in terms of pricing and marketing. Wherever there is lack of water supply identified, it should be complemented with alternate source of water supply to keep the interest sustained.

To read it in original, please visit Gulf News online.

Silent reply - Gulf Today - Short Take - Dt. 21 June 2014

Silent reply

It was a quiet time at the supermarket and I was waiting at the weighing counter in the vegetable section.

A worker arrived and placed some boxes of vegetables that were to be displayed at one of the sections. At that time, another customer appeared and positioned himself between the boxes and me.

The person at the weighing counter had seen me standing earlier and hence collected my items and started weighing them.

Suddenly, the other customer who created a new queue started insulting the counter staff and me.

He went to such an extent that he started talking about my country and my roots.

I was in no mood to respond and chose to ignore him. Seeing me not reacting, he stopped blabbering.

His provocation could have created an ugly scene, but I am happy that I chose to be silent and it did make a difference.

Ramesh Menon, Abu Dhabi

Gulf Today, Short Take Dt 21 June 2014

The Beas River Tragedy - and lessons to learn

My heart bleeds for the students who perished in the Beas river tragedy. It is great loss which could have been avoided if the authorities were vigilant. My prayers goes to the friends and family of the bereaved.

This tragedy brings into open the importance of imparting sufficient awareness on HSE matters, especially on Safety. As usual, the local authorities are trying to escape with regular excuses. However, I wish the students, were aware to and alert and reacted to the warning signs, they might have escaped from this disaster.

It is a warning sign to the academicans around the world to incorporate and give more emphasise on HSE as an important subject of curriculum from the school days.

photo courtesy : www.ndtv.com

To see a related video + click here

Hindustan Ambassador - Forget me Not

A tribute to Hindustan Ambassador 1957 - 2014
Forget me Not

From UAE to Venice - Gulf Today - Short Take - 14 June 2014

From UAE to Venice

I recently had the opportunity to attend the Architectural Biennale 2014 in Venice. Opting to travel from Abu Dhabi, I realised it was a multiple transportation option.

After the long flight to Malpensa Airport in Italy, I had to catch a train to Milan Central. Changing the platforms and hopping on to a fast train to Venice, I could relish the scenic beauty of the Italian countryside.

The place I wanted to visit was accessible only by water taxis. Stopping in between various boat stations, it was exciting to see people getting in and out at each places.

Once at my hotel, it was a different feeling. The scenic view from the window overlooking the canals and watching the gondolas take tourists through narrow water lanes were a treat to watch.

As days passed by, I started missing some things. The routine had changed and my desire to get some Indian food, the small items we get from our super and mega marts, started growing.

I was not successful due to time constraints and non-availability of the restaurants and shops that served them.

I remembered the UAE and felt that expatriates in the country are blessed as there are easy options available to make everyone feel at home, whether it is food, dress or any other.

My thoughts were concurred by an Indian couple from Belgium visiting Venice with their little boy, who was keen to have rice, idly and sambar every day.

Ramesh Menon

Gulf Today - Short Take - 15 June 2014

UAE pavilion - Gulf Today - Short Take - 7 June 2014

UAE pavilion

It was the partial realisation of a big dream. As the saying goes, if you dream, dream big, I was silently and consistently putting my efforts to rekindle the memories of the volcano fountain in Abu Dhabi.

The Architecture Biennale 2014 was officially opened on June 5 and the UAE pavilion stood out by displaying the right blend of modern and ancient architectural history of the UAE.

The curatorial team with the blessings of Sheikha Salama Foundation has done a great job.

Accepting and attending the opening ceremony also was an opportunity to meet several contributors who worked to make the UAE pavilion worth the visit for those interested in architecture and history.

The Venice biennale will run till Nov.23. Why not plan Venice as your holiday destination this year?

Train, boats, lovely canals and countryside and now the UAE pavilion in biennale.

Ramesh Menon, Venice

Gulf Today - Short Take, 7 June 2014

Perfect destination - Gulf Today - Short Take - 31 May 2014

Perfect destination

It was indeed a memorable four weeks that passed in a flash. Although the temperature shot up during these days, it never dampened the spirit of a set of tourists who were visiting the UAE for the first time in their life.

Within the short time available, it was my turn to take them around the 7 emirates of the UAE and show them the growth the country achieved within a quarter of a century.

It was interesting for me to take them around and explain to them the transformation of small shops to bigger malls over a period of time.

Impressed and interested, they were eager to start their journey each day with enthusiasm, forgetting most of the time their age and health conditions.

All these years, they were unable to visit the UAE as they had elders to look after. Now, they are leading a relaxed life and it was their turn to visit and experience this nostalgic tourism and work destination, which they had seen only in photos and on television.

I am talking about none other than my elderly parents.

Many a time before, even if they had the opportunity to visit, they had resisted. But after this visit and tour of the United Arab Emirates and witnessing its progress, they turned nostalgic. After dinner at a south Indian restaurant in Deira, my father was telling the restaurant manager that he would return soon.

It was emotional for me to take them there, as it was the same restaurant where I used to have my daily meals during the initial years of my career in the UAE.

I am convinced this is a blessed nation with magical hospitality and feelings for the tourists.

Ramesh Menon

Short Take, Gulf Today, 31 May 2014

Our Story of the Date Palm Trees - Indeed a journey worth following

This is an interesting example I am uploading today. While taking my parents to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, this particular palm tree caught my attention and as usual I moved away from them and started clicking many photos of the tree from various angles. My parents were watching and seeing me taking trouble, some other visitors stopped and started observing. In it was a legend from the UAE press with his family. As I noticed him, I went to him and said hello and he said, I knew it was you!. What was more funny was the scene that followed. As I moved away from the tree, I saw a man from Northern part of India, walking down the tree and started clicking it, the way I was trying, using his iPhone. He was with his family, daughters and son in laws and grand children. I walked past them and overheard what he was telling to his family. Oh, tho paagal nahi hey! Yeh bahuth khoobsoorath angle miltha hey, aise try karega tho! (meaning in english - he is not mad, I am getting beautiful angles to capture if I try this way).

I did want to go back and tell him that he was wrong - I am indeed mad about photographing Palm trees, and have by now covered almost all the flowering trees within Abu Dhabi, and nearby emirates!. Following them and in the process, creating a beautiful story and history!.

If you are interested in photography, do not miss out, join and participate in Our Story of the Date Palm Trees.

Chances are high that your clicks will be highlighted with prominence in future. Best wishes in advance and please share with friends and family who may be interested.

Ramesh Menon

11th May 2014

Sell UAE through merchandise - The National - Letters to the editor - 27 May 2014

Sell UAE through merchandise

While visiting some of the UAE’s major destinations and malls with a group of tourists recently, I realised that in those places you can’t get small merchandise promoting the spirit of the UAE, which a visitor might want to buy.

The malls and tourist outlets are filled with items such as T-shirts and caps displaying images and flags of other countries. The only time I see the UAE-specific items on display is during National Day. I think they should be available everywhere, all round the year.

Ramesh Menon, Abu Dhabi

To read it in original, please visit THE NATIONAL online

Crossing the line - Short Take - Gulf Today - 24 May 2014

Crossing the line

In Abu Dhabi and Dubai, I have seen pedestrians display scant respect for rules while crossing the roads in a hurry. At times, it is so scary making me wonder whether they really care for their self and family when they cross at undesignated sections of the road, even while talking on the phone.

Here is an incident I can quote, which is as recent as two days. I was driving on a two- way inside road behind Hamdan streeet of Abu Dhabi. A well-dressed man was crossing the road at his own pace talking on the phone, not at all bothered about vehicles coming from both directions.

I stopped and also saw another vehicle coming from the opposite direction.  Luckily, although the driver was also on the phone, he saw the pedestrian and he too stopped and the person crossed, without any care or consideration for both of us.

Witnessing his careless attitude, I tried to talk to him and he started arguing that it was his right to cross wherever he wanted and whatever he does was his own problem. I wished him good luck and continued.

Always drive carefully. Pedestrians in the UAE are still uneducated as far as their own safety and the drivers risk getting involved in an accident due to careless crossing.

So, be safe rather than regret later, even if the mistake is not yours. Never use a mobile while driving.

Ramesh Menon

Short Take - Gulf Today - 24 May 2014

To read it in original, please visit GULF TODAY online

UAE culture must be respected - Letters to the editor - The National

UAE culture must be respected

Visiting Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque the other day, I witnessed something embarrassing. It is good that the authorities show leniency towards visitors, so as to make their stay as comfortable as possible. That includes relaxation of the dress code.

However, such gestures should never be taken for granted, especially while visiting a religious place.

Unfortunately, that’s what happened when a bus full of scantily dressed tourists arrived at the mosque. Of course, they had to cover once they were in the queue to get in. But they definitely raised a few eyebrows.

I believe it’s the duty of everyone to show respect towards the culture of this country. How to convey this message to tourists is a matter of discussion. Should it start from the point of immigration, or is it the responsibility of the host, such as hotels where they stay, and tour operators?

Ramesh Menon, Abu Dhabi

To read it in original, please visit The National online.

UAE Together safety campaign urges more respect for pedestrians

UAE Together safety campaign urges more respect for pedestrians

Ramona Ruiz

ABU DHABI // Road safety experts have welcomed a call for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists to have greater respect on the roads.

The Twitter and Facebook accounts of UAE Together have been inundated with road safety messages using the hashtags #Pedestriansfirst and #ShareTheRoad.

UAE Together is a campaign by Abu Dhabi Police to educate the public about traffic rules and regulations, and the need to look out for each other.

“This is brilliant because it is so true,” said Thomas Edelmann, founder of website Road Safety UAE, of the ShareTheRoad tag.

“The one simple way to get rid of all our traffic woes is to treat others like you want to be treated. We have to drive with each other, not against each other.”

All motorists, he said, must remind themselves that they are also pedestrians the moment they step out of their cars.

Brendan Halleman, deputy project director at International Road Federation in the US, was equally enthusiastic.

“Sharing the road is exactly the right message,” Mr Halleman said. “After all, everyone is a pedestrian at some point in the day.”

Worldwide, more than half of all those killed in crashes are pedestrians, cyclists or motorcyclists, he said.

Of the 63 traffic-related deaths in Abu Dhabi in the first three months of this year, 33 were caused by vehicle crashes, 22 pedestrians were killed and eight people died after the cars they were travelling in overturned.

Most fatal accidents were caused by drivers not giving priority to pedestrians crossing roads, sudden swerving, speeding in unstable road conditions, burst tyres and tailgating, said traffic police chief Brig Gen Hussain Al Harithi.

The road safety initiative also asks drivers to slow down “as a pedestrian may pop out of nowhere”.

It reminds motorists that they share the road with other users and that “traffic safety is everyone’s responsibility”.

“Simple as this: cars on roads, pedestrians on sidewalks and cyclists on cyclists’ lanes. #Sharetheroad,” read another tweet.

Residents were invited to share their thoughts under the hashtag, and asked to reply “yes” or “no” on Facebook if they felt a lack of respect between road users was the reason behind accidents.

“Motorists are self-centred and even oblivious to pedestrians who use designated zebra crossings,” said Roshanara Sait, director of Ciel Marketing and Events, which organises road safety awareness campaigns across the country.

UAE Together also tweeted hard-hitting messages such as “Road users have equal rights, respect my rights #ShareTheRoad” and “The road belongs to everyone. It’s road safety, not rocket science. #ShareTheRoad”.

Ramesh Menon, an Abu Dhabi resident for 25 years, said pedestrians should also be aware of their surroundings.

“In Abu Dhabi and Dubai, I have seen pedestrians showing little respect for their own safety while crossing the road in a hurry,” Mr Menon said.

Ms Sait proposed sustainable road safety campaigns to raise awareness and highlight the dangers for both pedestrians and the motorists.

“Pedestrians in the UAE are still uneducated as far as their safety is concerned,” Mr Menon said.

rruiz@thenational.ae

 To read it in original, please visit THE NATIONAL online.

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Lest we forget - Short Take - Gulf Today, 17th May 2014

Lest we forget

It was a small gathering of people who came with passion and emotion for the nation. The Talk Show, “Lest We Forget – Structures of Memory in the UAE” was organised by the curator and research team of The National Pavilion of the UAE for the 14th International Architecture Exhibition at the 2014 Venice Biennale, discussing the upcoming exhibition that presents a retrospective of the architectural history of the UAE from 1914-2014, with an emphasis on modern heritage buildings.

Those who attended were of different age groups. Some as young as in the 20s and some others in their late 60s. The age difference made no difference to their emotional feelings towards the country they lived in.

The UAE grew steadily and strongly during these 100 years. During the process, all missed the transformation from the olden to modern times during which several changes were made within and outside cities and villages.

The once famous Toyota Crowns, Carinas and Cressidas gave way to new models. The fixed rate taxis gave way to metered taxis. Many traditional souqs gave way to modern markets.

The conventional camel race within the boundaries of once harmoniously spent joint family home and time was there to cherish. Some recollected with emotion how they, as little children, assisted then in the surveys that formed the basis of the modern developments.

All the prominent architectural structures of the emirates were remembered. The changes, however, were felt more deeply and emotionally on a major architectural structure of the country, that was once rated among the top ten fountains that existed in the world.

Volcano Fountain — all those who remembered it, said with one word, we would love to see it back. Little girls, who once played around it, shared fond memories of their childhood. Their thoughts and voice were unique in their wish to see it back in Abu Dhabi.

I am confident the hard work by the curatorial team of the UAE National Pavilion in Venice Biennale, that will open on June 5, will not fail in bringing the fond memories alive. It will be a great moment for the visionary leaders of the UAE.

Ramesh Menon

Short Take - Gulf Today, 17th May 2014

To read it in original, please visit GULF TODAY online

Volcano fountain - Short Take - Gulf Today - 10th May 2014

Volcano fountain

I love the UAE and always think of ways to contribute to the society.

Of late, I have been wondering if there is any possibility for the restoration of the historic Volcano fountain, that was there in Abu Dhabi, from the period 1984 - 2004. It was demolished and gave way to the modernisation of Abu Dhabi Corniche.

As we say, when something is there, we do not find its value, and when it is gone, we miss it very much.

Volcano Fountain, rated as one of the top 10 fountains in the world, was one such fascinating attraction.

Since 2005, I am making humble efforts to attract the attention of the authorities about its prestigious value in the architectural history of Abu Dhabi. The campaign is gaining momentum slowly and steadily.

Whoever were here during the period, and whoever were not here and watched the videos of it, say that it is one attraction that should be recreated in modern Abu Dhabi. It was a place where all nationalities once turned up to exchange pleasantries, met family and friends during weekends.

I continue to dream too, placing the Volcano Fountain among various probable scenic spots being developed within the city.

As they say, if you dream, Dream Big, and one day I wish and hope that my hope of recreating a new Volcano Fountain will come true too.

Ramesh Menon

Short Take - Gulf Today - 10th May 2014

The talk - Remembering the Volcano Fountain - The National - 09th May 2014

If you rebuild Abu Dhabu's Volcano Fountain.... The National Editorial 30th April 2014

Reader picture of the day - Rare sighting - Gulf News - 30th April 2014

Remembering the volcano fountain

Remembering Abu Dhabi's Volcano Fountain: If you are a long timer of UAE and if you cherish fond memories of the Volcano fountain, which was there in Abu Dhabi till 2004, please express your nostalgic memories as comments here. Your comments are valuable for a project on Volcano Fountain. Thanks in advance for sharing with your friends and family.

Comments received at FB: 

Rupa Wahi lot of memories attached to this fountain during 90's wish this landmark of Abu Dhabi should have stayed....

27 April at 22:58 • Like • 1

Manvi Gupta When I first came to Abu Dhabi, newly married, young girl........a little nervous, a lot excited.......my first night here.....my husband walked me down to this wonderful place called volcano fountain next to sea! With a light breeze blowing....and him next to me.......i felt the world belonged to me now! That place, that night, that moment and that feeling is forever etched in my heart! And so Volcano Fountain holds a very special place for me!

16 hours ago • Like

Ramesh Menon Abu Dhabi - Clicks and Writes It is genius, true we miss the famous Volcano Fountain of Abu Dhabi demolished in 2004, I really regret since 35 year ago nothing is left to remember symbolic monument

I am really touched by your idea

Bravo Ramesh

Céline ABDO

about an hour ago • Like

Ramesh Menon Abu Dhabi - Clicks and Writes you made me close eyes and see the place

u made me travel with my brain to remember a place that i didnt see before ... TRUE I SWEAR. AmaZZZzing place and video as well,, BRAVO ! I wish I could take my baby as well from corniche hospital directly to this place : ) , your Speech was like a nice story I can tell it to my daughter about our lovely Abu Dhabi ‘The City of Peace and Affection’’ . I always say that Abu Dhabi is a never-ending love story for each one.

Houda BOUSLIMI

about an hour ago • Like

Ramesh Menon Abu Dhabi - Clicks and Writes The Volcano was definitely the landmark of Abu Dhabi, it was a throbbing heart with all the fire-like lighting coming from it.

I remember during the first week of my arrival in Abu Dhabi, my relatives took me to the Corniche and precisely to the volcano fountain. This simple visit made me feel more at home and confident about coming all the way to live in an unknown place.

I was truly touched and impressed by the huge monument and its changing of colours. It was very similar to a true volcano, only that this one was harmless and soothing to the nerves.

Year after year, I got used to my new life in Abu Dhabi, it became my turn to take my guests and visitors to the volcano fountain so that they can rejoice their heart and senses.

Walking up the stairs on the volcano fountain, was an excellent exercise to old and young people, it was a family’s place, good for walking as well as sitting, while you can inhale the sea-breeze.

There was a good distance from the road, so noise and air pollution was reduced in the volcano area.

Najet MOSBAH

about an hour ago • Like

Ramesh Menon Abu Dhabi - Clicks and Writes I can say that this land mark represented for new the vision of HH. Late Shaikh zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan to see our nation as high as the mountain , flourishing it's water( generosity ) the nearby and far people. More importantly it resembles the strength and unity of our house and it's deep roots from the desert where the castle resemblance came from.

Sultan Al Hajji

about an hour ago • Like

Narendra Kulkarni I also remember this icon. I used to stay very close-by on Khalifa street and it is used to be routine for me to visit Volcano fountain from time time.

Ramesh Menon Abu Dhabi - Clicks and Writes
Dear Friends, Please taken 3-5 minutes, watch the video and write to me a short comment which expresses your nostalgic feelings about the once famous Volcano Fountain of Abu Dhabi, and which was demolished in 2004. I am sure, you have many.

Your comments are important, because, I have a talk on 7th May and a workshop on 10th May on this subject, and will be useful to include it in my presentation.

Thanks a million in advance,

Ramesh Menon

Naadan Paattu by Vishal TV and Vijeesh TV

Precious moment - Gulf Today - Short Take - Dt. 26 April 2014

Precious moment

It was a very short notice call on Tuesday late afternoon from a friend inviting me to attend a function in Dubai. Normally, I do not rush up on things or commit myself to anything not in my schedule. Especially, if it is out of Abu Dhabi. But, when he explained to me the importance of it, I couldn’t resist myself and say no to him.

His son, Rohin Bajaj, along with two other girl students, Anagha Subash and Devayani Sainath, all from Abu Dhabi Indian School, were receiving the prestigious Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Award for Distinguished Academic Performance. He wanted me to be there with him and the other proud parents to witness and capture the precious moment on my camera.

Children are always precious for me and I took off to Dubai, keeping my conscious approach and Safety First campaign always in my mind, Start Early, Drive Carefully, Reach Safely.

I paced myself in such a way that I was there in the auditorium well ahead of the scheduled start and witness the historic moment in the life of those three wonder kids and many other children and academicians who bagged this prestigious award.

In another interesting last-minute call on Thursday, I attended a family union of students from the college I graduated. It was after a long time that I was meeting some of my college mates and brought out memories of our good old days.

When asked to do a short presentation, I asked the audience, especially children, whether I should do so in English or in our native language, Malayalam. Many of the children asked me to address in Malayalam. I was impressed as some parents still inculcate in the minds of their children the need to connect with the mother language.

Ramesh Menon

To read it in original, please visit, Gulf Today online.