FINE FEATURES OF FURTH IN F.R.G.

 

Furth in F.R.G.

Is the fame of Germany

It’s near the Bohemian Forest

Which is the place of that race.

 

F.R.G. - the Federal Republic of Germany (FRG), the name of West Germany. Fürth is known as the terminus of the first railway in Germany, which ran from Nuremberg to Fürth in 1835. The railway station was located on the square that is now called "Fürther Freiheit". The entrepreneur Max Grundig was also crucial for Fürth.

Fürth, a city in Bavaria, Germany, is known for its high density of monuments, its role as the terminus of the first railway in Germany, and its history as a center of Jewish life in Franconia. 

Monuments and Architecture:

Fürth boasts over 2,000 monuments, giving it the highest density of monuments in Bavaria, per capita. A walk through the city reveals a blend of architectural styles, from the old town built after the Thirty Years War to Art Nouveau and Gründerzeit buildings. 

 First Railway in Germany:

The Fürth-Nürnberg line (Ludwigsbahn), which opened in 1835, was the first railway in Germany, with Fürth serving as its terminus. The railway station was located on the square now called "Fürther Freiheit". 

Goldbeaters' Craft:

Fürth was formerly a center of the goldbeaters' craft and still produces gold leaf and beaten metals, as well as aluminum and bronze powders. 

Brewing History:

Brewing was once a significant industry in Fürth, with several large breweries, and the city was more important than Munich as a "beer town" around the turn of the 19th century. 

Jewish History:

Fürth had a large Jewish population before the Nazi era, and was an important center of Jewish life in Franconia. 

Other Industries:

Besides goldbeaters' craft and brewing, Fürth also produces electrical products and toys. 

 

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TRADITION OF PREPARING PAPPADAMS AT HOME

    

 

Historically, making pappadams at home was a common practice, especially in South India, where it was a way for women to earn income and a way to preserve food, with families passing down the culinary art through generations. 

 

The practice of making papads (papadum) dates back to ancient times, with mentions found in Buddhist-Jain canonical literature around 500 BC. 

Home-Based Tradition:

In the past, many households, particularly in South Indian villages and towns, would make various types of pappadams during summers to last them throughout the year. 

Economic Opportunity:

For women, making pappadams was a way to earn some pocket money, aiding their economic independence. 

Community and Skill:

Families in Kerala, for example, would often have pappadam makers who passed down the culinary art for generations. 

The Rise of Lijjat Papad:

The story of Lijjat Papad, a women's cooperative started in 1959 in Mumbai, showcases how a home-based snack became a symbol of female empowerment and entrepreneurship in India. 

Papad as a Staple:

Pappadams are an essential part of many South Indian meals, like the Kerala Sadya, and are enjoyed as a crunchy accompaniment to various dishes. 

Papad as a snack:

In the north of India, they are served as a snack or appetiser, often with a cup of tea. 

Contemporary Significance:

While factory-made pappadams are now widely available, many families still cherish the tradition of making their own, and handmade pappadams continue to be popular, especially during festivals like Onam. 

Let us have a short note on the traditional way of preparing pappadams at home:

Traditionally, making papadams at home involves kneading a dough from ground black gram, then rolling it thin, drying it under the sun, and finally frying it to achieve a crispy texture, a common practice in South Indian households. 

 

Ingredients:

Main Ingredient: Flour ground from hulled split black gram (urad dal). 

Other Ingredients: Salt, a small amount of vegetable oil, and a food-grade alkali (like baking soda). 

Flavoring Agents (Optional): Cracked black pepper, red chili powder, asafoetida, cumin or sesame seeds. 

Other Ingredients (Optional): Rice, jackfruit, sago, etc. 

Process:

Kneading the Dough: Mix the ingredients, including the black gram flour, salt, oil, and alkali, with water to form a stiff dough. 

Pounding and Kneading: Pound and knead the dough for 10-12 minutes until it becomes soft. 

Shaping the Pappadams: Divide the dough into balls and roll each ball into thin discs on a floured surface. 

Drying: Traditionally, the papadams are dried under the sun, but they can also be dried on a tray at room temperature for 5-10 minutes. 

Frying: Heat oil and fry the dried papadams until they puff up and become crispy. 

Storage: Store the fried papadams in an airtight container to maintain their crispness. 

 

Pappadam is a staple of the South Indian Thali and is undoubtedly enjoyed by everyone.

How would you like to have it, with meals or as a snack during tea time. Do share it in the comments.

ELMINYA IN EGYPT WITH EIGHT SPECIALITIES

    

Elminya in Egypt

Which is near a port

Rounded with Suez &said

Has a neighbour “Red”

El Minya, also known as Minya, is a city in Upper Egypt, nicknamed the "Bride of Upper Egypt," known for its agricultural productivity, particularly in cotton, wheat, and sugarcane, and for its rich history with numerous archaeological sites like the rock-cut tombs of Beni Hasan. 

Here's a more detailed look at El Minya's specialties:

 

El Minya, known as "Iunu-Shemaa" (the Heliopolis of Upper Egypt) in ancient times, was a significant administrative and cultural center during the Pharaonic era. 

Rock-Cut Tombs of Beni Hasan:

These tombs, located about 20 km south of Minya, are adorned with vibrant wall paintings depicting scenes from daily life and ancient religious beliefs. 

Ruins of Hermopolis Magna:

These ruins, dedicated to the worship of the god Thoth, offer a glimpse into the ancient Egyptian deity of wisdom and writing. 

Tell El Amarna:

One of the most famous landmarks in El Minya it was the capital city of King Akhnaton. 

Tuna El Gebel:

An old cemetery with the tomb of Petosiris, the high priest of Thoth, and the tomb of Isadora. 

El Ashmunein:

A town of great importance as a cult center of Thoth, the god of wisdom, healing, and writing. 

Malawy Museum:

The best museum in Minya Governorate, containing a distinguished collection of ancient Egyptian antiquities. 

Agricultural Productivity:

"Bride of Upper Egypt":

El Minya is known for its fertile lands and large agricultural production, particularly cotton, wheat, and sugarcane.

Ibrahimiya Canal:

The construction of the Ibrahimiya Canal in 1873 provided perennial irrigation to vast lands, leading to noticeable urban growth, especially in the western areas of the city. 

Other Notable Features:

Location: El Minya is situated approximately 245 kilometers south of Cairo, making it easily accessible for travelers. 

Transit Point: Due to its road and rail links, El Minya has become a transit point for tourists visiting Middle Egypt. 

Molasses (Black Honey): Minya is famous for creating molasses or "black honey". 

 

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THE DOMINANT DJIBOUTI PORT IN DJIBOUTI

  

Djibouti port in Djibouti

Has a powerful shipping link

Along with the fashion futa.

 

 While Djibouti is also known for its colorful sarong-like garments called "futa,” which are traditional garments worn by both men and women, particularly in the central market of the capital city. 

 The Port of Djibouti, a vital transshipment hub and the main seaport for Ethiopian international trade, is strategically located at the southern entrance of the Red Sea, serving as a gateway to East Africa and an essential connection in global shipping routes. 

The Port of Djibouti's specialty lies in its strategic location at the crossroads of major international shipping routes, acting as a key refueling, transshipment, and transport hub, particularly for Ethiopia's maritime traffic. 

 

Strategic Location:

The port is situated at the southern entrance to the Red Sea, a crucial area for global trade connecting Europe, Africa, and Asia. 

Regional Hub:

It serves as a vital link for trade and logistics in the Horn of Africa, handling 100% of Ethiopia's maritime traffic. 

Modern Facilities:

The port boasts modern container terminals, bulk cargo facilities, and storage options for goods in transit. 

Key Trans-Shipment Point:

The port facilitates the transhipment of goods to other countries in the region and serves as a key refuelling and transport center. 

Doraleh Container Terminal (DCT):

The DCT has the greatest berthing, deepest water, the most significant number of quayside gantry cranes, and the highest capacity 

Economic Importance:

The port plays a crucial role in the regional economy, supporting the movement of large volumes of trade goods across continents. 

 

(This blogpost is a part of Blog chatter's A2Z. : https://www.theblogchatter.com/) 

THE CHINOOK WINDS AND MORE FROM THE CROWSNEST PASS IN CANADA

  

Crowsnest Pass in Canada

Is the crown of Canada.

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• The Crowsnest Pass is rich in history, known for coal mining, natural disasters like the Frank Slide, and its role in the Canadian Pacific Railway. 

  The Crowsnest Pass is a popular tourist destination, offering opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and exploring the area's natural beauty. 

  The Crowsnest Pass in Canada, located in the Rocky Mountains of southwest Alberta, is renowned for its dramatic landscape, rich history, and outdoor recreation opportunities, including the Frank Slide Interpretive Centre, the Bellevue Underground Mine, and the Leitch Collieries Provincial Historic Site. 

  Landscape and Nature:

  Majestic Setting: The Crowsnest Pass features high-altitude plateaus, Chinook-warmed valleys, and breathtaking mountain views. 

  Chinook Winds: The area experiences the effects of Chinook winds, which can lead to warmer temperatures in the winter months. 

  Outdoor Activities: The area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, fishing, mountain biking, and snowmobiling. 

  Pass Powderkeg: A local ski hill, Pass Powderkeg, is available for winter sports. 

  Chinook Lake Provincial Recreation Area is a summer hot spot for hiking, fishing, and camping 

  History and Culture:

  Coal Mining Heritage:

  The Crowsnest Pass has a significant history rooted in coal mining, with sites like the Leitch Collieries Provincial Historic Site offering insights into this era. 

  Frank Slide:

  The Frank Slide, one of Canada's deadliest rockslides, occurred in 1903, and the Frank Slide Interpretive Centre tells the story of this event. 

  Crowsnest Museum & Archives:

  The Crowsnest Museum showcases the local history and heritage of the area. 

  Heritage Sites:

  The region features seven principal heritage sites and facilities, offering insights into its past. 

  Burmis Tree:

  A landmark Limber Pine tree, known as the Burmis Tree, is a symbol of the area's resilience and history. 

  Lundbreck Falls:

  A popular spot for visitors, Lundbreck Falls offers scenic views and two viewing platforms. 

  Bellevue Underground Mine:

  Visitors can explore the underground tunnels and caverns of the Bellevue Underground Mine. 

  (This blogpost is  part of Blog Chatter's A2Z2025 : https://www.theblogchatter.com/campaign-registrations/blogchatter-a2z-2025-every-letter-tells-a-story

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BRASILIA AND THE CONNECTION OF BEANS OF COFFEE

             

Brasilia in Brazil

Which is very chill

Known for coffee seeds

Fills many tender needs. 

Brazil, particularly the capital Brasília, has a strong connection to coffee, being the world's largest coffee producer and exporter, with coffee plantations primarily located in the southeastern states. 

Let's get into the connection:

·                   Brazil's Dominance in Coffee Production:

Brazil is renowned as the "coffee capital of the world" due to its significant coffee production and export volumes. 

·                  Coffee Plantations:

Coffee plantations, known as "fazendas" in Brazil, are concentrated in the southeastern states of Minas Gerais, São Paulo, and Paraná, where the climate and environment are ideal for growing coffee. 

·                  Historical Significance:

Coffee arrived in Brazil in the 18th century and became a dominant economic factor by the 1840s, with production peaking in the 1920s. 

·                 Quality and Flavor:

Brazilian coffee is known for its high quality, with beans having a distinct flavor profile characterized by sweetness, caramel, and chocolate notes, along with a large body and low acidity. 

·                  Brasilia as a Hub:

While not directly a coffee-growing region, Brasília, as the capital, is a major center for coffee consumption, trade, and related industries, connecting the country's coffee production with the rest of the world. 

·                 Coffee Culture:

Brazil has a rich coffee culture, with coffee being a staple beverage and a significant part of the country's identity. 

·                  Nucoffee:

Syngenta's Nucoffee platform connects Brazilian coffee producers with the international market, promoting access to advanced technologies and technical expertise. 

·                  Brasilia Coffee Machines:

Bianchi Industry manufactures coffee machines under the Brasilia brand, catering to bars, restaurants, and coffee shops. 

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ADELAIDE IN AUSTRALIA OFFERS DIVERSE WINE EXPERIENCES

     

It’s a tour from A to Z

Which is just for pleasure

It begins with

Adelaide in Australia

Which has the atmosphere of every sphere

It makes us spare the fear

And the bear mere fair.

Adelaide is the world's third most liveable city, with residents hailing from all corners of the globe. Its loving community makes it such a wonderful place to call home. Because of its small size, you can spend less time travelling and more time relaxing or sightseeing in the city.

Adelaide is renowned for its high-quality education, vibrant arts and cultural scene, and beautiful natural landscapes, including beaches and wine regions. It's known as a relaxed and friendly city, ideal for student life.

Let's move a little ahead of the student's life and education to the relaxing mode of tasting drinks.

 

Yes, wines from the Adelaide region, particularly those from the Barossa Valley and Adelaide Hills, are very popular in Australia and internationally, known for their quality and diverse styles, especially Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Noir. 

Here's a more detailed look:

Barossa Valley:

The Barossa Valley is a world-renowned wine region famous for its full-bodied Shiraz, Grenache, and Cabernet Sauvignon. It is located just a short drive from Adelaide. 

Adelaide Hills:

This region is known for its cool-climate wines, like Pinot Noir, sparkling wines, and Chardonnay, due to its higher elevation in the Mount Lofty Ranges. 

Other Popular Regions:

Other South Australian wine regions near Adelaide include McLaren Vale (known for Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon) and the Clare Valley (known for Riesling). 

Popular Wine Varieties:

Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Noir are particularly popular, but other varieties like Riesling, Grenache, and Chardonnay also thrive in the region. 

Wine Tourism:

The Adelaide region is a popular wine tourism destination, with numerous cellar doors, wineries, and vineyards offering tastings and tours. 

In your trip to Adelaide remember apart from sight seeing and other adventures not to miss diverse wine experiences and stunning scenery, all accessible from the city. 

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WHY SIBLING RELATIONSHIPS MATTER IN OLD AGE

 

   

As siblings age, maintaining strong relationships and providing mutual care and support becomes increasingly important. This offers emotional, practical, and social benefits for everyone involved. 

 

Siblings can provide companionship, reduce loneliness, and offer a sense of belonging, which is crucial for older adults. 

Warm, supportive sibling relationships can buffer against depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues common in later life. 

Older adults may face declining health or mobility, so siblings can assist with tasks like transportation, errands, or home maintenance. 

In some cases, siblings may provide financial assistance or help with managing finances, especially if one sibling is struggling financially. 

Siblings can play a significant role in providing care for aging parents or other family members, offering both emotional and practical support. 

 

Tips for Maintaining Strong Sibling Relationships in Adulthood:

Make time for each other: Schedule regular check-ins, visits, or outings to stay connected. 

Communicate openly and honestly: Address any conflicts or misunderstandings early on to avoid resentment. 

Accept each other for who you are: Recognize that each sibling has their own unique personality and life experiences. 

Set boundaries: Establish clear expectations and limits to avoid overstepping or feeling overwhelmed. 

Focus on common goals: Work together on shared interests or projects to strengthen your bond. 

Seek professional help if needed: If conflicts are severe or relationships are strained, consider seeking guidance from a therapist or counselor. 

Be aware of the needs of your siblings: As people age, their needs change. Be aware of the needs of your siblings and offer support accordingly. 

 

THE LITTLE HOUSE BY ELIZABETH GODLEY

  

   

In a great big wood in a great big tree, 

There's the nicest little house that could possibly be.

There's a tiny little knocker on the tiny little door, 

And a tiny little carpet on the tiny little floor.

There's a tiny little table, and a tiny little bed, 

And a tiny little pillow for a tiny weeny head;

A tiny little blanket, and a tiny little sheet, 

And a tiny water bottle (hot) for tiny little feet.

A tiny little eiderdown; a tiny little chair; 

And a tiny little kettle for the owner (when he's there.)

In a tiny little larder there's a tiny thermos bottle 

For a tiny little greedy man who knows the Woods Of Pottle

There's a tiny little peg for a tiny little hat 

And a tiny little dog and a tiny little cat.

If you've got a little house 

And you keep it spic and span,
Perhaps there'll come to live in it 

A tiny little man. 

You may not ever see him, 

(He is extremely shy): 

But if you find a crumpled sheet -
Or pins upon the window seat -
Or see the marks of tiny feet -
You'll know the reason why.

DESCRIPTION OF NEW MOON NIGHTS AND THE ABSENCE OF MOON IN POETRY

  

In poetry, new moon nights and the absence of the moon are often depicted as a time of darkness, mystery, and quiet contemplation, evoking feelings of solitude, anticipation, and the potential for new beginnings. 

Symbolism of Darkness:

The new moon, being the phase where the moon is not visible, naturally lends itself to imagery of darkness and shadows. Poets might use this to explore themes of the unknown, the subconscious, or the hidden aspects of life. 

Quiet and Solitude:

The absence of the moon's light can create a sense of stillness and tranquility. This can be used to evoke emotions of introspection, reflection, and a connection with nature. 

Anticipation and New Beginnings:

The new moon marks the beginning of a lunar cycle, which can be interpreted as a symbol of new beginnings and fresh starts. Poets might use this to explore themes of hope, renewal, and the potential for change. 

Examples in Poetry:

"The New Moon" by William Wordsworth: This poem explores the beauty and mystery of the new moon, describing it as a "pale and gentle star". 

"New Moon" by Richard Wilbur: This poem captures the feeling of anticipation and wonder that the new moon evokes, describing it as a "promise". 

"New Moon" by Emily Dickinson: This poem explores the themes of darkness and solitude, describing the new moon as a "veil". 

CULTURAL RELATIONSHIP WITH CROWS

  

 

 

Being a South Indian, the first bird we are introduced to is a crow.

Crow, sparrows, were the regular visitors in our ancestral homes in the village.

 Then comes the parrot along with the fortune teller.

These days, pigeons are the ones that are highly connected with our lives in the cities.

 Our relationship with these birds is not so grand, but is worth remembering and a few anecdotes behind it.

 The first and foremost connection with the crow connecting me to the arrival of the guests.

The caw of a crow is believed to be a sign that a guest is about to arrive, though this is a superstition rather than a factual observation. 

 The idea that a crow's caw foretells a visitor's arrival is a common superstition, particularly in some parts of South India. 

 This belief is rooted in cultural traditions and folklore, where crows are often associated with various positive and negative omens

In some instances, the cawing of a crow perched on a specific location, like a grille, is seen as a sign of an impending visit. 

 Crows' droppings are sometimes associated with death or bad luck in some cultures, but

their symbolism can vary widely. 

 Moreover,  tomorrow being Amavasya (New moon), not to forget crows

In South Indian culture, crows, particularly the house crow, hold a significant place, often associated with ancestors, spiritual guidance, and as messengers from the other realm, with feeding them considered a gesture of respect and appeasement. 

Here's a more detailed look at the role of crows in South Indian culture:

Ancestral Connection:

Crows are believed to be a form of deceased ancestors, and feeding them is a way to honor them. 

Rice balls are offered to crows during memorial ceremonies (Sraddhas) and on the day of New moon.

The cawing of crows is sometimes seen as a sign of a departed soul's contentment. 

Spiritual Significance:

Crows are considered spiritual guides and messengers from the other realm. 

Some believe that feeding crows can appease Lord Shani, who is said to be mounted on a crow. 

In some Hindu texts, crows are linked to the spirits of departed ancestors (Pitris). 

Everyday Life:

Crows are a common sight in South Indian cities and villages, and their presence is often acknowledged in daily life. 

People often offer morsels of food to crows before eating, a tradition rooted in the belief of honoring ancestors. 

Crows are also featured in folklore, songs, jokes, and proverbs. 

Specific Examples:

In some regions, people offer food to crows on Saturdays to appease Lord Shani.