Ebooks VS Printed Books: Which Is Preferred Now?

The race is getting tighter now. With downloadable music already set to completely replace CDs, the next round of the format battle begins. Who will come out on top: ebooks or printed books?

 The whole world is reading. Reading is part of our everyday lives, whether it’s for fun, business, or to catch up on the latest news. How people read today is what we want to know more about.

The E-book and the printed edition of books are both widely used. You can get your newspaper in paper form or you can get it downloaded each morning to your e-reader.

 How you chose to read is totally up to you. Which is your favorite way to read your books?

There are many factors to consider when discussing the matter of ebooks vs. printed books, but ultimately, it boils down to the reader’s preference. Avid fans of printed books claim that there’s still nothing like the smell of paper and the rustle of the pages as the reader flips gently through the book with their fingers. There’s something intimately rustic about the entire experience, they claim, and it’s one that cannot be derived from the cold, electronic ebook version.

 On the other hand, those who prefer the ebook often say that the device takes a whole lot of weight from their shoulders – literally. Packing for trips is bad enough as it is, but it becomes doubly so when confronted with the task of choosing which book to bring. With the ebook, however, a reader can take hundreds of books with them on the journey, and only take up a few square inches in their carry-on bag.

 Apart from these physical considerations, however, studies have shown that when it comes to reading comprehension, printed books are still a better choice. The study found that literacy building in children is more effective with a printed book than with an ebook because of the centralized focus on the story and the opportunities for interaction between the child and the parent reading the book with the child. While ebooks also deliver the story, and encourage children to participate with interactive add-ons, there is no conversation and nothing to encourage the child to verbalize or explore using language. In fact, the research concluded that sometimes “click-through” added features can actually detract from the reading experience because of all the interruptions.

 Of course, for other people – especially adults, who are more able to comprehend the overall story or meaning in the text – these interactive features such as linking, bookmarking, highlighting, and others provide a huge benefit and meet many of their needs. By and large, however, some devices tend to overdo it, and so end up creating more distractions than necessary.

There’s also the matter of production cost. Obviously, printed books cost more because of the resources needed. Ebook reader manufacturers, though, spend the bulk of their production cost on the device itself, and from then on everything is digital and a fraction of the cost per book, compared to printed books.

Advantages : Printed Book v/s E-Books

S.No.	Printed Books	E-Books
01.	Bookstores are everywhere offering easily attainable copies.	They are very easily readable, offer zoom functions, and have large or small words. The setting preferences are up to the reader.
02.	Books are cheap and can usually fit any budget.	They are easily portable.
03.	Paper books are there all the time, whenever you want them. No power source is necessary.	Most new e-readers come with their own light function.
04.	Note taking cannot be done several different times.	Note taking can be done and re-done several different times.
05.	Recycling the books can be done once you have used it. Also one can lend it to other people and not be worried about them loosing an expensive gadget.	E-books are environmental friendly. No waste of paper is needed.
06.	One can just visit the library and borrow. Also one can’t go forward and back between the pages easily.	One can download lots of books at once and can read them as many times into one slim device.
07.	With real books you can meet the authors and get them signed.	The E-Books you can’t get them signed.

Disadvantages : Printed Book v/s E-Books

S.No.	Printed Books	E-Books
01.	Books are bulky and can often be heavy.	Software bugs can always happen.
02.	A light source is needed for reading.	A power source is always necessary, and batteries only last so long.
03.	The notes you make in printed books are there forever.	If you spill something on your e-reader, it might not work.
04.	You can’t erase or change the highlights made.	Not all books are available as of yet in E-book form.

So what is the bottom line in regards to this debate between the printed copy and the E-book?

Readers, like most consumers, want a good product at a low price. Low prices are one thing, fair prices are another. The publishing industry needs to reassess its overall pricing, not just on e-books, and create an equitable market for readers, authors and publishers. Readers need to understand that authors are usually the lowest paid people in the publishing industry. There are excellent e-books available. The market will level out once consumers and the industry find a price they can all be happy with.

Clearly, the winner is none other than the person doing the reading, no matter which method they choose. With all of the options available in the market, there simply is no way to not enjoy reading. If anything, what people should be focused on is learning how to read faster. After all, there are so many books to pick up and read out there – both in printed form or ebook version – that we should be concentrating on reading as many as we can, in whatever format suits us best.

Most people still opt to read from regular books and also e-readers when convenient. It just depends on the location and what is being read. Both the printed copy and the E-book can serve many different readers’ needs.

Best Street Foods in Mumbai we can’t live without !!!

The dream city of Mumbai is known for so road side food stalls located at Girgaum Chowpatty,Nariman Point and other Khau Galli’s. Famous Indian street food includes Panipuri, Bhelpuri, Sevpuri and Dahipuri, apart from this streets of Mumbai is also famous for Vada Pav,omelette-pav,Misal Pav and bhuji-pav along with the Chinese food items.

VadaPav

The most popular spicy vegetarian fast food dish in Maharashtra, Vada Pav also known as Indian Burger is one of the very famous Street food of Mumbai.

 Kebabs

Road side stalls or Kebab Corner in the street of Mumbai are known for their pleasant taste and spice. Mohammed Ali Road is well famous for Seekh kebabs in the city.

PavBhaji

The finger-licking pav bhaji from the streets of Mumbai, available within a minutes. Sardar Pav Bhaji at Tardeo road junction is popular in Mumbai city.

BombilFry

Bombil fish fry or Bombay Duck Fry is a seafood in the city of Mumbai, Delicious bombli fish is the must try street food of Mumbai.

PaniPuri

The yummy and mouthwatering Panipuri is known as Golgappas in Northern India, is a popular street snack in Mumabi as well as in Indian subcontinent.

Chicken Tikka Rolls

Bademiya is the best place in Mumbai for Chicken Tikka Rolls or any other non-veg dishes such as the kebabs, bheja fry and mutton rolls.

Bhelpuri

Bhel puri is the most common all-day snacks item,easy to make mixed with tamarind chutney and eaten on the spot food item famous at Chowpatty Beach.

Kheema Pav

The delicious masala kheema with pav at street of Colaba’s is another must have street food item from dream city of Mumbai. Kheema Pav and bhurji pav are two popular fast food items in Mumbai during the day time.

Channa Bhatura

Chana Bhatura gained popularity as a street food in India, It is one of the best in Mumbai city. Cream Centre of Mumbai is best place to Chole Bhatura or Channa Bhatura.

Misal Pav

Misal pav is one of the famous street foods available in Mumbai, very popular amongst the Maharashtrians as a breakfast dish, also one of the best in Pune.

Sandwiches

Sandwiches in Mumbai are the best road-side food bursting with flavours and variety. A Delicious Sandwich in Mumbai will make your day.

Crab

Crab is another must try seafood available on the streets of Mumbai, a butter garlic crab will do the rest. Along with other Seafoods bangda,pomfret and Pomfret Tawa Fry, Crab can be counted as one of the street food.

Idli-Dosa

Idli and Dosa are two most popular south Indian dishes available in the streets of Mumabi,Pune and other cities of India.

Kanda Poha

Kanda Poha is famous as one of the best Mumbai street food along with Sabudana khichdi and Upma as other breakfast item.

Dhoklas and farsaan

Dhoklas or ‘khummun’ are made from the fermented batter of chickpeas, steamed and then spiced with chillies and ginger and tempered with mustard seed. Farsan, a broad term for savories encompassing sev and gathiya are crisp deep-fried spiced gram flour creations in pasta like shapes.

Falooda

A rich drink, Falooda is vermicelli mixed with milk, almonds, pistachios, a bit of rose syrup and the key ingredient — sabza or basil seeds — topped up with two scoops of ice cream. Refreshing, rosy, energizing, it’s a great pick-me-up on a hot day.

Frankie

A juicy naan bread with an egg coating and stuffed with mutton or chicken, rolled up and sprinkled with a unique masala that gives it its special flavor. The vegetarian option does not use eggs and the stuffings include paneer or potatoes.

Gujarati thaalis

In fast food terms think of this as a large, all-you-can-eat combo platter served on your table in unlimited quantities. Three types of farsan (fried snacky things with a plethora of chutneys). Two kinds of vegetables. Two kinds of lentils. Dal and kadhi (hot and spicy yoghurt based dish). A basket of different rotis and puris (deep fried breads). Two kinds of rice. Two desserts. And mango pulp which the purists pour all over the plate.

Modak

A Maharashtrian sweet prepared during the Ganesh festival, modak is offered to Lord Ganesha, because it is his favorite sweet. Wheat flour dough kneaded with milk, stuffed with grated coconut and mixed with sugar or jaggery. Shaped like a teardrop and steamed or fried.

Puran poli

 

A festive dish made by Maharashtrians and Gujaratis especially during Holi (to celebrate the end of the winter season) and Dussehra (to celebrate the triumph of Lord Ram over the demon Raavan). It is made by simmering chana dal (yellow gram) with sugar or jaggery (molasses or gur) till it dries up, and then hand-ground to smoothen it out. Nutmeg and cardamom powders are the flavorings. Palm sized balls of this paste are stuffed into wheat flour dough and rolled out to be roasted on a tawa frying pan with a little ghee (clarified butter).

Ragda pattice

This twin delight is a combination of ragda, soft spicy rugged flavored chickpeas, and pattice, mashed potatoes shaped into fat patties and fried. The ideal way is to eat it is to crush the ragda with the pattice and pile on the accompaniments — finely chopped onions, tangy tamarind sauce and fiery green chutney.

Sabudana vada

For Maharashtrians, sabudana vada is the traditional ‘upvas’ or fasting food. Sago is soaked until it puffs up. Crushed boiled potatoes, green chillies, coriander leaves and salt are kneaded in. They are then fashioned into palm-sized patties and deep fried until they turn crisp and golden.

Samosa

Lovingly shaped into triangles and deep fried, these calorie busters are worth the one week that you’ll need on the treadmill to work it off. But a samosa can also give you heart at that last leg of your day when transport is not in sight, it’s dark and there’s a long way home.

Sizzlers

As kids, a sizzler was part of the “growing up in Mumbai” experience. The sight of a sizzler arriving at your table, like an old steam engine, sizzling and steaming and spluttering to a halt in front of you, was an exciting experience. A combination of grilled meats and vegetables served on what looks like a hot chunk of black iron, with a side of mashed potatoes or fries and gravy.

The history of food in Mumbai is closely linked to the growth of this city from fishing village to megapolis. As wave after wave of immigrants from all over the country came with dreams of gold in their eyes, they brought their culinary treasures with them. The result? A smorgasbord of cooking styles and street food that reflects our cosmopolitanism as much as our carbohydrate-fueled work ethic.

The Veg Vs. Non-Veg Diet Debate

A crazy debate that has raged back and forth about the inadequacies of a vegetarian diet versus hazards of a non-vegetarian diet is both accurate and wrong, and if one really looks at both groups of people and their eating habits there is room for healthy living in both. Confused??

As humans we are creatures of comfort, habit and stubbornness. People get sick over time from consuming an inadequate diet or overeating and from leading sedentary lives. Did you notice the key missing words in this sentence above? There is no mention of the words Vegetarian or Non-vegetarian. This rule applies to both categories.

It’s not the type of cultural or religious beliefs we hold but our actual diet and the food we consume that is pulling the rug out from under our feet.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has said that death from diabetes and heart disease alone costs India about $210 billion every year, and it is expected to increase to $335 billion in the next 10 years.

So the average person is more likely to die from a lifestyle disease then from an automobile accident, or infectious disease such as pneumonia.

Mostly, we humans can be divided into two categories:

1. The veggie lovers
2. The non-veggie lovers

• A vegetarian diet (veggie-lovers) is one wherein a person consumes all types of plant foods along with milk and dairy, but completely avoids consuming all meat and animal derived foods and by-products.  This includes avoiding contact with these products as well.

• A non-vegetarian diet (non-veggie lovers) includes all plant foods as well as foods and by-products derived from animals like meat, poultry and fish, etc.

VEGETARIANS and their DIETS

Nearly every significant study carried out on people who are vegetarians has shown the following:
Vegetarians are at an increased risk for:

• Iron deficiency anemia
• Zinc deficiency
• Vitamin B12 deficiency

VEGETARIANS CAN and ARE ABLE to get adequate nutrition from an exclusively vegetarian diet. If vegetarians consume a variety of foods along with the right amounts of foods from each food group, a veg. diet can meet the recommendations for all nutrients. Those vegetarians that especially focus on including foods that are rich in calcium, zinc, and vitamin B12 to counter a potential deficiency, achieve optimal health. Of course, the most important part in this equation is EXERCISE. If you keep that element out, no amount of healthy vegetarian food will help you in the long term.

NON-VEGETARIANS and their DIETS

Hey you vegetarians, jump up and down for Non vegetarians are consuming more and more and more high fat content pork, chicken, turkey, beef and seafood than they have ever eaten in the past. A study carried out showed that Americans ate more of each of these foods than they did a half-century earlier. Now you might jump up and down and say, Oh! That study applies to Americans only, so why bring it up here, but let me tell you, globally everyone loves to emulate and follow all of America’s BAD habits.

The biggest increase in consumption has been for poultry. Chicken and fish in itself have not been shown to cause chronic diseases, but when the chicken and fish are deep fried in partially hydrogenated oil, they become one of the most potent causes of heart disease as they then contain trans fatty acids.

Studies have also found the following with non-vegetarians:

• Have shorter lifespan and are more prone to chronic diseases as compared to vegetarians.
• On average have more heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes.
• Predominantly eat lesser amounts of fruits and vegetables than recommended.

So which one is better? Today, both these categories are falling short.
Looking at current trend of a veggie lover and a non-veggie lover, they are BOTH consuming more of refined cereals (white bread, white rice, etc.), as compared to whole grains (whole wheat bread, brown rice, etc). Refined grains are devoid of their vitamins and fiber due to the polishing process.

Have you counted how many varieties of packaged and processed foods are available on the shelves today for both Non veg and veg diets.  Well! Don’t count as it will make your head spin. We are all emptying our pockets for convenience at the cost of damaging our health. The only ones laughing all the way to the bank are the manufacturers of these products.

We are consuming more of processed and ready to eat foods such as baked goods and fried goods in place of more healthful foods such as raw fresh fruits and vegetables. Also lets talk about SALT. Huge amount of salt is found in baked goods, packaged and processed foods and fatty meats. The combination of all the above, i.e. high intake of refined cereals, baked goods and fried goods, salt, fatty meats, promote obesity, heart disease, stroke and diabetes. This applies to both veggie lovers and non-veggie lovers. Both non-veg. and veg. diets are killing us. The use of refined foods that are devoid of natural and healthy nutrients; and foods containing saturated fats and cholesterol.

Therein lies our universal problem and solution: STOP the Debate on which category is better and understand our common problems.

We Indians have turned into a nation of FOODIES:

1. Fast Foodies.
2. Fried Foodies.

The fact is both diets can help us achieve optimum health, prevent nutrient deficiencies & other chronic diseases “IF” the focus is towards maintaining a healthy and an adequate diet by choosing the right quantity and quality of food.

The middle path seems to be best. The digestive system of human body can digest both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food.  Eating eggs and fish about three times in a week and chicken or red meat once or twice weekly is alright for the average person who doesn’t mind being omnivorous.  Whether one likes it or not, fruits, vegetables, and wholegrain cereals and pulses must be consumed everyday to stay healthy.

Both Vegetarians and Non-vegetarians need to start consuming a balanced diet and exercise adequately but more importantly change their attitude from “Fast and fried tastes best” to a “Fresh is better” approach.

The Pink City : Jaipur

Jaipur, the largest city of Rajasthan is an epitome of magnificence and vibrancy. This city was established in 1727 by Jai Singh II, and is India’s first planned city. Jaipur was the capital of former Kachwaha rulers and it so presents itself as a versatile tourist destination. This royal place is rich in heritage, culture and architecture. With splendid fortresses, majestic palaces, tranquil temples and beautiful havelis; Jaipur turns out to be an ideal tourist destination. It is not just the royal buildings and palaces that this city offers. Other than these captivating attractions, Jaipur displays exquisite handicrafts and spectacular jewellery. These intricate works of art add life and colour to this Pink City’s uniqueness. Also, the serenity of lush gardens and floral array acts as the cherry on the cake of fabulous landscapes. All this make a picturesque view that tends to enthral any visitor.

Must visit Places

CITY PALACE AND S.M.S. II MUSEUM

Situated in the heart of the old City, it occupies about one seventh of the old city area. The palace is a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture, it houses a Seven storeyed Chandra Mahal in the centre, which affords a fine view of the gardens and the city. Diwan-E-Am (Hall of public audience) has intricate decorations and collection of manuscripts, Diwan-E-Khas (Hall of private audience) has a marble pawed gallery. Mubarak Mahal has a rich collection of costumes and textiles. There is a Clock Tower near Mubarak Mahal. Sileh Khana has a collection of armory and weapons.

 JANTAR MANTAR (Observatory)

Built in 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the huge masonary instruments were used to study the movement of constellations and stars in the sky. Enormous sun-dial still provide accurate time, which are subject to daily corrections.

 HAWA MAHAL

Built in 1799, by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, is the most recognizable monument of Jaipur. The 5 storied stunning semi-octagonal monument having 152 windows with over hanging latticed balconies is a fine piece of Rajput architecture. Originally designed for the royal ladies to watch and enjoy the processions and other activities, on the street below. Now it houses a well laid out museum. The display “Jaipur past and present” is the special feature of this newly setup museum.

 JALMAHAL

6 kms on the way to Amer, this small palace is set in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. A paved causeway leads upto the beautiful water palace.

JAIGARH FORT

15 kms. standing on a hilltop, overlooking the palaces and city of Amer. The world’s biggest cannon on wheels- the Jai Ban is positioned here, built during reign of Maharaja Sawai Jaisingh. It has a twenty feet long barrel and pumped in the cannon for a single shot.

AMER

The old capital of the Kachhwahas stands atop a range of craggy hills. The fort is remarkable as much for the majestic grandeur of its surroundings as for its sturdy battlements and beautiful palaces. It is a fine blend of Hindu and Muslim architecture. The solemn dignity of its red sandstone and white marble pavilions, when reflected in the lake at the foot hill, is a sight to behold. The original palace was built by Raja Man Singh, the additional extensions were built by Maharaja Mirja Raja Jai Singh and Sawai Jai Singh II – the last Maharaja of Amer, who built a new city called Jaipur, where he shifted his capital in 1727.

The palace complex is lavishly ornamented and displays the riches of Amer. Sheesh Mahal chamber of Mirrors. Diwan-e-Am or the Hall of Public Audience is a beautifully proportioned hall open on three sides and stands on two rows of ornamented pillars. Diwan e-Khas or the Hall of Private Audience has delicate mosaic work in glass. Sukh mandir is guarded by sandalwood doors inlaid with ivory. Throughout the massive fort finely carved lattice windows, exquisitely painted doorways, halls and finely sculptured pillars crave for attention.

 NAHARGARH FORT

15 kms. cresting a hill about 600 ft. above the city, the fort was built in 1734. The walls of the fort run along the ridge and within are architectural beauties like Hawa Mandir and Madhvendra Bhawan.

CENTRAL MUSEUM

Situated in the Ram Niwas Garden. This graceful building was founded in 1876 by Prince Albert (also known as Albert Hall). It has a rare collection of archaeological and handicraft pieces.

BIRLA PLANETARIUM

It offers unique audio-visual education about stars and entertainment with its modern computerised projection system.

LAXMI NARAYAN TEMPLE

It is situated just below the Moti doongri, known for the intricate marble carvings in white marble, popularly known as Birla Temple.

KANAK VRINDAVAN

6.5 Kms on the way to Amer. This newly restored temple and garden, near Jal Mahal, has beautiful gardens and is popular picnic place. This is also beautiful location for film shooting.

 ELEFANTASTIC

Elefantastic offers the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of India’s much loved elephants for a day. An elephant farm in an elephant care village, Elefantastic was formed in 2012 to promote the wellbeing of these giant creatures and show tourists that not all of them are mistreated. Before starting Elefantastic, Rahul (the founder) worked as an elephant rider for nine years. At Elefantastic, you’ll be able to wash, feed and water the elephants, learn about elephant decorating and have a painting class, and learn about the elephants’ medicines and treatments. Numerous options for elephant rides and safaris are offered, both in Jaipur and the surrounding countryside.

What to Eat in Jaipur ?

Dal Batti Churma

Recognised as a Rajasthan speciality, Dal-batti-churma, is a wholesome Rajasthani meal. Dal, or lentil curry, is served with Bhatti, a roundel of stuffed flour that’s baked in a charcoal fire or oven. Choorma is a sweet dish made with flour, jaggery or sugar and ghee.  Bhatti comes in varieties acts as a substitute for rotis. You could opt for plain batti, or try the more exotic masala, dry fruit or missi battis. Batti is made out of wheat, flour, millet or a mix of maize and wheat flour, with loads of ghee.

 Mawa Kachori

A kachori filled with mawa and sugar syrup, this delicacy is not to be missed. It is available at all sweet shops.

Ghewar

A deep-fried sweet dish, Ghewar is in great demand during festivals such as Gangaur and Teej. It comes in varieties such as plain, desi ghee and mawa.

Mirchi Bada

Sharing prime spot with samosas and kachoris in the snack market are Mirchi Badas – green chillies dunked in besan and deep fried.

Rajasthani Subji

Gatte ki subji, Rajasthani curry, Mangori, Pakodi and Ker Sangari, the traditional subjis, are part of the daily meals here. A papad- plain or masala – is a must to sum up meals, as a tradition in Rajasthan.

Chapati/Roti 

What is interesting about Rajasthan is the variety of rotis one gets, even in the smallest eating place. Bajre Ki Roti, Makki Ki Roti, Jau-Channa Ki Roti, Besan Ki Roti, Cheelra, Paratha, Puri, Methi Puri, Rumali Roti… the list is endless.

The best time to visit this place is between October and March. Since the weather is pleasant during these months, that allows one to explore more of this place without getting scorched in the seething heat. This city of Rajputs is well known for its fairs and fests that are held on a grand level. The festivals include kite festival, camel festival, teej, gangaur, elephant festival, to name a few. The city witnesses maximum tourists during these days. To add on to its liveliness, this place has brilliant bazaars filled with bright turbans and ethnic attire, hand-dyed and embroidered textiles, pretty jewellery and delicious food. All these things can draw anyone towards them. Dressed in pink, this royal city of Rajasthan, Jaipur is the apt blend of heritage, palaces, culture and art and the flamboyance of this place can be experienced only by visiting it.