Happy Birthday... My Love

No one knows you quite like me,

The world sees what they choose to see.

Harsh, rude, a little tough,

Yet I know a heart that's soft enough.

You care in ways words cannot say,

Giving, helping, come what may.

Love isn’t spoken, yet always there,

Shown in moments, in the way you care.

Through storms and trials, we stood tall,

Hand in hand, we’ve faced it all.

Sometimes I wonder how and why,

But deep inside, we need no reply.

Some husbands yell, some husbands roar,

In our tale, that’s my chore!

You stay calm, composed, and wise,

Yet your temper—I’ve seen it rise!

“Opposites attract,” they say, so true,

I laugh, I chatter—nothing new.

You, reserved, with words so few,

Talking only when you need to.

A smile for a photo? Oh, what a task!

A thousand clicks, yet none you grasp.

I giggle, I pose, while you stand still,

But I love you, stubborn or chill!

We’re opposites, yet blend just right,

Like day and night, like dark and light.

Ishannk and I send love your way,

Wishing you joy on your special day!

Stay blessed, stay strong, stay just the same,

For in our world, you light the flame.

2 March 2025 – 7 March 2025

Old is Gold – A Step Back to Traditional Cookware

In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, convenience and speed are given top priority. This is why non-stick and aluminium cookware have become common in most kitchens. However, while these options may seem convenient, their long-term effects must be considered. I realized this and finally decided – to return to traditional cookware!

I recently removed all non-stick pans and aluminium utensils from my kitchen and replaced them with cast iron cookware. Initially, it was a bit challenging, but as I started using them regularly, I began to understand their benefits.

Adopting Traditional Cooking Habits - There are certain traditional habits that we inherit, and one such habit I have adopted is leaving the ladle in the curry after tempering. This allows some natural iron to seep into the food, making it healthier.

However, I used to rely on aluminium kadais for making dishes like upma and sheera, non-stick cookware for frying bhajis / sabjis, and a non-stick pan for making rotis—except for bhakris, which were always made on an iron griddle. This inconsistency had been bothering me for a while. Finally, my sister and I went shopping and bought cast iron cookware.

Initial Challenges and Solutions -

Bringing iron cookware from the market and simply washing it once before use is not enough. After washing and drying, you need to apply oil (sesame or coconut) all over it and let it sit for about half an hour. Then, wipe It clean with a cloth, wash it again thoroughly, and only then is it ready for use. If this process is not followed, food like fritters may turn black.

For the first couple of days, I faced some difficulties. Cooking dinner while also helping my child with studies meant occasional distractions. As the saying goes, “नजर हटी दुर्घटना घटी - A moment’s distraction can lead to an accident”, and sure enough, my bhajis stuck to the pan. But I told myself, “Vegetables little burned, turn out crisp and delicious!” I tried different techniques to season the pan properly. The stubbornly stuck bhajis finally came off after soaking the pan, boiling that water, and scrubbing it gently.

Another challenge with cast iron cookware is cleaning and maintenance. These utensils need to be washed and dried immediately to prevent rusting. I found a solution—I soak them in soapy water, and my house help washes and dries them right away. If you have someone who can handle this task efficiently, switching to cast iron cookware becomes much easier.

Next Step – Brass Cookware and storage containers

Now that I have started using cast iron cookware, my next goal is to introduce brass utensils into my kitchen. I already have a copper water pot and a silver glasses, but I also wish to replace my stainless steel plates, bowls, and glasses with brass ones. 

Also planning to replace my plastic storage containers with brass containers. It will take time though.

Brass utensils have a unique charm—both in looks and functionality!

The Journey from “Non-Stick” to “Sustainable”

Non-stick cookware offers temporary convenience, but choosing sustainable alternatives is crucial for long-term health and environmental well-being. Using traditional materials like iron, copper, and brass is not just about returning to old ways but making a conscious shift toward sustainable and healthy living.

You Can Make the Change Too!

If you are thinking of eliminating non-stick and aluminium cookware from your kitchen, start with a cast iron kadai. It may take some time to get used to it, and food may stick initially, but over time, you will adapt, and the benefits will become evident.

Market - Demand snd supply. I am sure, if demand increases, we will have 'Kalai wala' in every nook n corner

“Old is Gold” is not just a saying—it is the best choice for a healthier life!

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Photo from google.