Arusuvai

Arusuvai is a Tamil term meaning ‘six tastes’. It refers to the traditional South Indian culinary principle of balancing sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent and astringent flavours in food to make it healthy and complete 

 According to Ayurveda too, different tastes come from different minerals needed by our body. So consuming it with every meal helps with our physical wellness. A balanced meal should contain preparations that have all these tastes.

 

The habit of developing varied taste preferences, is achieved through repeated exposure and mindful consumption. We can train our brain to appreciate new flavours by consistently trying new foods, focusing on all our senses while eating and allowing our brain time to adapt. 

 

Our brain takes around 8-15 tries to adapt to a new taste. Beyond the taste, we must pay attention to the smell, texture and even the sounds the food makes. Hence we must avoid ‘fog eating,’ where you eat without being present. We must give our senses more time to process the food.

 

 We must try a wide variety of foods to be exposed to new flavour profiles through the practice of Arusuvai. Besides health benefits, Arusuvai develops an open mind to different cuisines. Rather than insist on the same old single taste, we welcome the rich diversity that is served by others.

 

Arusuvai makes for a palate so fine,

With all flavours bringing joy divine!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

#mondaymuse22ndYear #pravinsabnis #since2004 #motivation #blogging #MondayMuse

 

 

NO BARRIERS written on 10 Nov'2025

Last Saturday was the Preview Night of ‘Festivals of Goa’ on occasion of the 10th anniversary exhibition at the Museum of Goa, celebrating Goa’s culture, community & heritage. It showcased over 90 artists and over 100 artworks, all celebrating the diversity of various art forms. 

Speaking on the occasion, founder Dr Subodh Kerkar underlined how the art & culture are unifying factors in times where divisive forces seek to widen the chasm between communities. He has been consistently seeking to connect and bring together artists to celebrate the joyful togetherness of distinct diversities.

 

Music, art, and culture are universal languages that transcend borders, boundaries and differences, connecting people from diverse backgrounds. They are powerful mediums of expression that know no bounds. They facilitate exchange and understanding among different cultures and communities. They promote inclusivity, embracing diversity and individuality.

 

We see genres like jazz, rock and classical music with global influences and appeal. Artists draw inspiration from diverse cultures. Cultural Festivals too showcase global cultural richness. The creative arts bring people together, overcoming barriers. Cross-cultural influences spark innovation and creativity. They foster empathy and understanding among diverse groups.

 

However, respecting the cultural origins of others remains a challenge. Also, protecting traditional arts in a globalized world is crucial. It is important to ensure inclusivity and access to cultural expressions. Music, art and culture are bridges that connect humanity, celebrating our shared creativity and diversity. They help the world to be one of no barriers!

 

'No barriers' will make our world so fine

In harmony, diversity will surely shine!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

#mondaymuse22ndYear #pravinsabnis #since2004 #motivation #blogging #MondayMuse

Willing to Wait

Shafali Verma wasn’t even part of the team. She was called up when Pratika Rawal was injured. She played the stellar hand in winning the Women’s World Cup for India. She opened with the bat, scoring a brilliant 87 at a quick pace.  

South Africa were going well with the chase when the skipper asked Shafali to bowl. She got two wickets in two, one of which was of the star, Marizanne Kapp and India got the match under control. This was special as Shafali is not a regular bowler.

 

She accepted the opportunity when offered, first shining with the bat and later unexpectedly with the ball. There were other good performances from other team mates, but Shafali’s efforts are special as she came in last minute.

 

She was watching the matches on TV. Yet she showed that she was fully aligned to playing the game, when called to play. Although not in the playing team, her focus and zeal was not lesser than the ones on the playing field. It was no mean task to have the willingness to wait!

 

Teams are empowered by the ones who are not weighed done by the ‘waiting’… by those who maintain the preparedness to play. We must be willing to wait and willing to play, when opportunity comes our way!

 

Be willing to wait when out of the way

Give only your best when called to play!

 

~ Pravin K Sabnis

 

#mondaymuse22ndYear #pravinsabnis #since2004 #motivation #blogging #MondayMuse