Author Archives: ranmenon

There are ancient temples everywhere in Hampi and its neighbourhood. The temples are not isolated structures for worship alone, but have ancilliary spaces and various out buildings that served different purposes, such as accomodation for travellers, stables, ponds and tanks, dancing halls etc. There is evidence of linear market stalls alongside large chariotways that leadContinue reading “The temples of Hampi”

Dolmens, considered to be megalithic tombs, abound the area of Hirebenakal, near Hampi. Dolmens were used to commemorate the dead and it is believed that ceremonies were also conducted around them. I had first learnt of Dolmens from the comics of Asterix ( I think it was Asterix and the Golden Sickle), and associated themContinue reading “Hampi- Dolmens and Cave paintings”

After good roads through a national highway and three state highways, we have established basecamp at Badami. Aihole and Pattadakkal are neighbouring villages and the three days that we set aside to visit are more than adequate. Pattadakal and Badami are UNESCO Heritage Sites. Pattadakkal is beautifully situated along the banks of Malaprabha river. BuiltContinue reading “The Peninsula Tour – Badami, Aihole, Pattadakkal”

In a few days, we are starting on what has acquired the title of “Peninsula Tour”. We are driving through 9 states and for most part, along the coast of the Indian Peninsula and taking the long way home. A really really long way home. The trip is expected to cover about 10,000 km andContinue reading “The Peninsula Tour”

Introduction On an average, India sees 12 Million people become job eligible each year. Most of these people, if they work, find jobs in the unorganised sector. A small number goes through Vocational Education programmes sponsored by the government or through private coaching centres. In the early days, vocational training covered technical professions such asContinue reading “Vocational Education”