Sinhgad - The Lion Fort

Quote of the Post: "We have gain the fort, but lost the lion" - Shivaji mourned when he heard that his general (Tanaji) has been killed in the battle. so it named as Sinhgad.

It was another S(F)unday. We didn't executed any plan so quickly. We decided to visit the place around 11 am after our sleep, and we were set to go at 12 noon. On one hand Swine flu was increasing by leaps and bounds in the city and another it was time for grand celebration of Ganesh Festival all around.


Our journey started from Magarpatta city, and our first stop was Khadagwasla Dam. This is just 20 km away from Pune in the way to Sinhgad fort. The dam is major water resource for Puneites. Sinnhgad road alongside the dam is a picnic place, specially during the monsoon. Don't forget to enjoy the sweet corn.

Now Its time for Indra to add beauty to the place. Mild rain started and we proceeded towards Sinhgad, the lion fort. The place is like a bed of roses for all nature lovers, poet, trekkers, photographers. It is just 30 km away from Pune city. To reach Sinhgad foothills from Pune (to & fro) is pretty easy. You have plenty of options as by PMT buses, your personal bike, car, zeep etc.

You will get a point, from where you need to park your vehicle, and start trek. It is about 2 hour including some small breaks (Though you can prolong your trek by . You will find local snacks to eat & drink as Onion bhaji, Chaas(Butter - milk), limbu-sharbat (neebu-paani or Lime juice), corn. Just at the start you will get the Pune Darwaja (Pune Gate). At the start there are stairs and then you can explore the places. The breezy air and pelting rain creates the atmosphere as an icing on the cake.

There are many points all around as - Wind point, Daaru Point (Drink point), Lover's point, Tea point, Suicide point, Shoot points, and P :) point. What's your point dear!

Thanks to Tara & Rajesh who initiated this plan, Mrunal who provided us his bike, and Nitesh who invited us for dinner. Later on, we enjoyed Tambola at Nitesh home.

So, Gear-up your vehicle. This was my first trip near Pune. More to come...

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Swine Flu Helpline numbers in Mumbai

Important Information for Swine Flu Treatment in Mumbai

The Union Government has identified the Kasturba Hospital,as the facility at Mumbai, for testing and isolation of suspected swine flu patients. The government has set up a screening facility at the Chatrapati Shivaji International airport for all the inbound passengers to prevent the spread of H1N1. Doctors from the Hospital are round the clock screening the passengers at the Airport.

Kasturba Hospital
Arthur Road, Sane Guruji Marg,
Mumbai 400011
Ph: 022- 23083901 / 23092458 / 23000889,

The Government has also identified the following hospitals as the facilities for Swine Flu testing

Sir JJ Hospital
J J Marg, Byculla,
Mumbai – 08
Ph- 91-22- 23735555, 23739031, 23760943,23768400
/ 23731144 / 5555 / 23701393 / 1366

Haffkine Institute
Acharya Donde Marg,
Parel, Mumbai – 12
Ph- 91-22- 24160947, 24160961, 24160962

Some FAQS regarding Swine Flu
Swine Flu Helpline numbers in India
Swine Flu Helpline numbers in Mumbai
Basic Precautions to Protect from Swine Flu

Following are the screening centres in Mumbai for treating H1N1 cases: (Source)

1. Kasturba Hospital
Arthur Road, Sane Guruji Marg, Mahalaxmi
Jacob Circle, Mumbai, Mumbai City, Maharashtra 400011, India
022-23083901, 23083902, 23083903, 23083904

2. Cooper Hospital
Vile Parle West, West
Mumbai, Maharastra 400056, India
022 26207254‎ / 022-22605892 / 022-22605897

3. VN Desai Municipal Hospital
11th, Golibar Road
Opposite Santa Cruz Gymkhana, Santacruz East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400055, India
+91 22 26182081

4. SK Patil Hospital
Daftarri Road, Malad (E), Mumbai, Mumbai
022 28894381

5. Kurla Bhabha Hospital
Near Kurla Rlwy Station
Kurla, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400070, India
+91 22 26500241

6. Shatabdi Hospital
Dock Labour Board Colony, Govandi, Mumbai
022 25564070 / 25563289

7. Mahatma Phule Hospital
Kannamvar Nagar 2, Vikhroli (east), Opposite Samaj Kalyan, Mumbai – 400083
022 25782253 / 25782283

8. Bhabha Hospital
K B Bhaba Hospital Building, Bandra (West), Mumbai - +91 22 26422775

9. Rajawadi Hospital
Ghatkopar (East), Mumbai, Maharashtra 400077, India
022 25094149

10. Bhagwati Hospital
Ground Floor, Bhagwati Hospital, Mandapeshwar Road, Mandapeshwar, Borivali (west), Mumbai
022 28932461

11. M T Agarwal Hospital
Dr. R P Road, Mulund West, Mumbai
022 25640767

12. Siddharth Hospital
Opposite Motilalnagar Post Office
Motilal Nagar, Goregaon, Mumbai
022 28766886

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Swine Flu Treatment In India

FAQS regarding Swine Flu H1N1
Swine Flu Helpline Numbers in Pune
Basic Precautions to Protect from Swine Flu

As the swine flu death & positive cases being recorded & incremented like a jungle-fire, it will be all important to keep a ready reckon at hand. More so we need to be aware of the correct symptoms and the right place for treatment. So in case we have someone who is seen to have symptoms, we could guide them to the right hospital. As a Unified Force we can stop the spread of this epidemic and cure the affected ones with timely and correct treatment.

Please forward the important information to as many known people as possible so as to make them aware and be part of the Unified Force. Below is the list of the government authorized hospitals for treatment of swine flu in India. (Please open the below in a new tab, if below image is blur)

Take care.

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Basic Precautions To Protect from Swine Flu

Swine flu in India & the whole world is spreading like wildfire, taking the toll to 2000+(worldwide) and 25 in India. Officials say there are currently more than 1400 cases of the H1N1 flu strain in India.(as of 14 Aug 09). Governments from all around the world are finding ways to combat this deadly disease. So what can you do to protect yourself? Stay calm and practice these 10 effective prevention tips.

1. Wash your hands frequently
Use the antibacterial soaps to cleanse your hands. Wash them often, at least 15 seconds and rinse with running water.

2. Get enough sleep
Try to get 8 hours of good sleep every night to keep your immune system in top flu-fighting shape.

3. Keep hydrated
Drink 8 to10 glasses of water each day to flush toxins from your system and maintain good moisture and mucous production in your sinuses.

4. Boost your immune system
Keeping your body strong, nourished, and ready to fight infection is important in flu prevention. So stick with whole grains, colorful vegetables, and vitamin-rich fruits.

5. Keep informed
The government is taking necessary steps to prevent the pandemic and periodically release guidelines to keep the pandemic away. Please make sure to keep up to date on the information and act in a calm manner.

6. Avoid alcohol
Apart from being a mood depressant, alcohol is an immune suppressant that can actually decrease your resistance to viral infections like swine flu. So stay away from alcoholic drinks so that your immune system may be strong.

7. Be physically active
Moderate exercise can support the immune system by increasing circulation and oxygenating the body. For example brisk walking for 30-40 minutes 3-4 times a week will significantly perk up your immunity.

8. Keep away from sick people
Flu virus spreads when particles dispersed into the air through a cough or sneeze reach someone else’s nose. So if you have to be around someone who is sick, try to stay a few feet away from them and especially, avoid physical contact.

9. Know when to get help
Consult your doctor if you have a cough and fever and follow their instructions, including taking medicine as prescribed.

10. Avoid crowded areas
Try to avoid unnecessary trips outside. Moreover, avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.

FAQS regarding Swine Flu H1N1
Swine Flu Helpline Numbers in Pune
Swine Flu Helpline numbers in India

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Swine Flu Helpline numbers in Pune

The Swine Flu is spreading all over the world by leaps and bounds. The most affected state in India is Maharashtra and its city Pune. Considering the increasing number of Swine Flu cases in this city and subsequent burden on system, following hospitals have been added to the list of authorized Govt. Hospitals for testing and treating Swine Flu. You are requested to visit any of the hospitals mentioned below in case you get symptoms of Swine Flu. Please spread the information in each possible way and help others.
Some FAQS regarding Swine Flu
Swine Flu Helpline numbers in India
Basic Precautions to Protect from Swine Flu

The Union Government has identified the Dr. Naidu Infectious Disease Hospital, Pune the facility in Pune for testing, isolation, and critical care of suspected/ confirmed swine flu patients. The Pune Airport(Lohegaon) Authorities have set up a screening facility at the Pune Airport(Lohegaon) for all the inbound passengers flying to Pune, to prevent clock.

Dr. Naidu Infectious Disease Hospital
Pune Ph:91-20-26683232

The government has also identified National Institute of Virology as an additional facility for Swine Flu testing.

National Institute of Virology(NIV)
20A Ambedkar Road, Pune-11
Ph:91-20-26006290

Swine Flu Helpline Numbers in Pune

S. No.	Name and Address of the Hospital	Phone No.	Contact Person
1	Erandwane Hospital – Opposite to Padale Palace, Next to “Pingala – Aryabhata” Office, Karve Road	9764000939	Dr. Sarita Ganala
2	Jayabai Sutar Hospital, Kothrud	9823217047	Dr. Sham Satpute
3	Aanandibai Gadgil Hospital, Dattawadi	9422987953	Dr. Jotsna Khole
4	Balaji Gaikwad Hospital, Ganjpeth	Not available	Dr. Sadhya Bahule
5	Kalawatibai Mawle Hospital, Narayanpeth	9881385015	Dr. Neela Limaye
6	Mamasaheb Bhadade Hospital, Narayanpeth	Not available	Dr. Swati Joshi
7	Babu Genu Hospital, Ravivarpeth	9421018878	Dr. Dinesh Bende
8	Siddharth Hospital, Vishrantwadi	9423004811	Dr. Bhagavant Gagare
9	Shivshankar Pote Hospital, Sahakarnagar	9422520930	Dr. Divya Rajawade
10	Junglerao Aamrale Hospital, Shivajinagar	9823214103	Dr. Aparna Gokhale
11	Genba Shevale Hospital, Chikhalwadi	9823224789	Dr. Madhuri Gare
12	Rohidas Kirad Hospital, Ganeshpeth	Not available	Dr. Chandrashekhar Gujar
13	Damodarraoji Galandepatil Hospital, Kalyani Nagar	9730571404	Dr. Ujwala Khristi
14	Bapusaheb Kawadepatil Hospital, Koregaon Park	9922504428	Dr. Jaya Bhondve
15	Dr. Kotnis Hospital, Mandai	9850992960	Dr. Asmita Bhoi
16	Naidu Hospital, Opp Le Meridian	26126242	NA
17	Aundh Civil Hospital, Aundh	27280603/02	NA
18	Helpline Contact	020-64006095, 020-32538626, 020-20250050	NA

Note: I have put these phone numbers for the needed people only. In case, if the number is not valid/working, at the time you call, Check helpline numbers. If any doctor wants to add his/her number/details. Please comment and help others, I will update the list.

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FAQS ON SWINE FLU

Some FAQS regarding SWINE FLU:

1. What is Swine Flu (Swine Influenza)?
Swine flu is a respiratory disease affecting pigs that is caused by type A influenza virus. Swine influenza viruses may circulate among swine throughout the year, but most outbreaks occur during the late fall and winter months similar to influenza outbreaks in humans. It causes high levels of illness but low death rates in pigs.


2. Does Swine Flu affect humans?
Swine flu viruses that cause disease in pigs very rarely affect humans. However, sporadic human infections with swine flu have occurred. Most commonly, these cases occur in persons with direct exposure to pigs but there have also been documented cases of human-to-human spread of swine flu.

3. How does Swine Flu spread to humans?
Swine flu spreads to humans mainly through contact with infected pigs, which shed the virus in their saliva, nasal secretions and faeces. Limited human-to-human transmission can also occur in the same way as seasonal flu occurs in people.

4. Can people catch Swine Flu from eating pork?
There is currently no evidence to suggest that swine flu can be transmitted to humans from eating pork or pork products that have been thoroughly cooked.

5. What are the symptoms of Swine Flu in humans?
The symptoms of swine flu in people are expected to be similar to the symptoms of regular human seasonal influenza. An early symptom is high fever, and this is followed by cough, sore throat, runny nose, and sometimes breathlessness a few days later.

6. How can human infections with swine flu be diagnosed?
To diagnose swine flu, a respiratory specimen would generally need to be collected within the first 4 to 5 days of illness (when an infected person is most likely to be shedding the virus). However, some persons, especially children may shed the virus for 10 days or longer.

7. What medications are available to treat swine flu infection in humans?
There are three different antiviral drugs that are licensed for use in Singapore for the treatment of influenza: amantadine, oseltamivir and zanamivir. Another antiviral drug, rimantadine, is also licensed for use in the United States for the treatment of influenza. While most swine flu viruses have been susceptible to all four drugs, the most recent swine flu viruses isolated from humans are resistant to amantadine and rimantadine. At this time, the US CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir (Tamiflu®) or zanamivir (Relenza®) for the treatment and/or prevention of infection with swine flu viruses.

8. Is it safe to visit countries with cases of Swine Flu and will I be quarantined when I return? What travel precautions should I take?
There are currently no travel restrictions or quarantine advised by the World Health Organisation for swine flu. If you intend to travel to areas which have cases of swine flu (currently – Southern California and Texas in the United States; and Mexico), you should take note of the following measures to minimize your risk of acquiring swine flu:
-Avoid contact with persons with symptoms of influenza
-Avoid crowded areas and maintain good ventilation.
-Observe good personal and environmental hygiene. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water frequently and when they are contaminated by respiratory secretions e.g. after sneezing.
-Maintain good body resistance through a balanced diet, regular exercise, having adequate rest, reducing stress and not smoking.

9. What should I do if I fall ill overseas?
You should consult a local doctor as soon as possible and refrain from traveling until you are certified fit by the doctor.
10. Does influenza vaccination help in preventing Swine Flu?
Vaccines are available to be given to pigs to prevent swine influenza. There is no vaccine to protect humans from swine flu so far(August 2009). The seasonal influenza vaccine is unlikely to protect against H1N1 swine flu viruses.


Note: The information given here is for the precaution & awareness regarding H1N1. Please seek medical help/advice, in case of any confusion with the nearby doctor/hospital.

Swine flu helpline numbers in Pune

Swine Flu Helpline numbers in India
Basic Precautions to Protect from Swine Flu

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Adieu Cyprus

Quote of the Post: "The place for everyone, be it any season or any reason" Quote about Cyprus - Sachin Gupta

The place where I had my first job, a beautiful small island, what could be better than this. I feel myself lucky to get an opportunity to work with amazing teams, meeting wonderful people, and being a part of a culture called Amdocs, DVCC where I have spend most wonderful years of my professional and personal life. After a period of approx 2 years, my stay at the most wonderful island have come to an end. This was a mixed feeling of both happiness and sorrow. Happiness of moving forward and sorrow is to leave Cyprus & more special DVCC.

I have great learning experience in a multi-national and multi-cultural environment of Amdocs DVCC. Other than that I improved some of other skills: a bit of cooking, Dancing (Latin American & ballroom dances), playing-card games, personal web-site dev, and so-so (list is too long)

I have too many great memory moments with all my friends, colleagues here; All the amdocs parties were amazing. The undersea walk, trips, treks and excursions to all parts of the Cyprus were breezing & soothing. You can't escape the B wor(l)d of Cyprus being in Cyprus. I have captured all those moments not even in my WD hard disk, but in the permanent hard disk as well.

Project Team Event at the beach near Comp
At the Happy Valley cricket ground near Kourian

Parties at most visited Raj Tandoor Restaurant
First Year Anniversary of together in Amdocs

The very first day we arrived at Larnaca airport, Cyprus
With our friends at the eleventh hour in Limassol, Cyprus

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