-- Dawn belongs to Me --
Reprise (4.76 Miles) -- 03/28/26
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Monday 03/23/2026, 03 Shawwal 1447 -- Reprise
Nahar - Raambagh - Lake Promenade - Lake Platform - Saki Vihar - Raheja Vihar (short) - Chandivali - Nahar.
Time: 0:38:09
Mileage: 3.51 Miles - 5.66 Km
Pace: 10'51"/mile - 6'44"/km
Weather: 23C; Humidity 64%
Weight: 68.3 kg - 150.6 lbs
NEW SHOES --Up around 4:10, but still feeding off the energy of Ramzaan, again feeling great! I am out around 6:20 for a very cautious first run. But it goes far better than expected. I am not that sore, and my breath is surprisingly controllable (and temperatures are mild). Taking the same route I have walked in the closing days of Ramadhan, I end up extending a little more than I would have thought. Excellent start, but let's see how it develops from here.
38th Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat al-Mu'min till v 69; Asr Surat Ha-Mim Sajdah till v 47 (Juz 25), till end.------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 03/25/2026, 05 Shawwal 1447 --
Dneg - Royal Palms Rd - Straight past Aarey - Shri Gaodevi Mandir - Royal Palms Rd - to Entrance.
Time: 0:41:42
Mileage: 3.9 Miles - 6.28 Km
Pace: 10'41"/mile - 6'38"/km
Weather: 26C; Humidity 79%
Weight: 69.2 kg - 152.5 lbs38th Tilaavat Morning Surat ash-Shura, Surat az-Zukhruf till v 46; Dhuhr Surat az-Zukhruf till end, Surat ad-Dukhan, Surat al-Jathiyah (Juz 26); Asr Surat al-Ahqaf, Surat Muhammad;
Again, wake up at 3:30 !! Do not really succeed in reaching the visions (I have lost the practice a bit), so get up around 4:10. I feel roughly ok, but this has to stop!
My first run in Royal Palms post Ramadhan. In spite of being tired, I manage ok. I feel sore in my hamstrings, which has been slowly growing since the last run, but surprisingly, the strongest pain is in both my biceps! At this slow pace, I do manage my breath fine, able to bring it back if I start to stress. I purposefully walk the steep climb back to DNeg, to avoid adding to my muscle pains. As usual, this will take some patience.
Since yesterday, I have returned to Patel 7 Masjid for Dhuhr ki Namaaz. Abundant hugging, heartfelt "Eid Mubarak" from several members, as if this month of Ramadhan had cemented my relation with them.
38th Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat al-Fath, Surat al-Hujurat till v 11; Asr Surat al-Hujurat till end, Surat Qaf, Surat adh-Dhariyat till v 31 (Juz 27), till end; Maghrib Surat at-Tur, Surat an-Najm.------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 03/27/2026, 07 Shawwal 1447 --
Chandivali - SM Shetty - Cliff Ave - High St - Orchard - Suverna Temple - JVLR - Lake Blvd - Orchard - Raambagh - Nahar.
Time: 0:47:54
Mileage: 4.57 Miles - 7.36 Km
Pace: 10'28"/mile - 6'30"/km
Weather: 26C; Humidity 65%
Weight: 69.2 kg - 152.5 lbs38th Tilaavat Thursday Morning Surat al-Qamar, Surat ar-Rahman, Surat al-Waqi'ah; Dhuhr Surat al-Hadid (Juz 28); Asr Surat al-Mujadilah; Maghrib Surat al-Hashr.
Incredible, another severe insomnia !! Yesterday saw a reprieve, but today again, wake up at 2:30, unable to sleep back till I get up around 3:30, using the opportunity to perform Tilaavat Qur'an in the hours before dawn.
I have been caught in this rhythm since Ramzaan, but paradoxically, I actually feel quite good, sharp in the morning, and survive as long as I am able to sleep briefly during the day (usually twice). In a way, there is opportunity in this, which I try to exploit by fulfilling the promise of the late hours of the night, before dawn.
And actually, the run is surprisingly good too. Freshness is gone from the morning air, but I find a good breath, and my various aches and pains have subsided since Wednesday. So I prolong the run cautiously, preserving my good breath.
Later to Al-Husainya Masjid for Jummah. Funnily, without even thinking I fall back to the same place I was occupying during Tarawee, that is on the second row (and surrounded by similar people). Jamal Malik is not there, someone else hands me over perfume, and I do meet the boy and his father, tell them I'll be going to France next week (the father jokes to his son, "sath jaoege?"). They too went to Jamal Malik's house for Eid, after we had left.
I feel good at the Masjid, planning for this next phase. On the walk back through Khairani road, someone dumps a bucket of water on a man who is lying unconscious on the pavement.
38th Tilaavat before Fajr Surat al-Mumtahanah, Surat as-Saff, Surat al-Jumu'ah, Surat al-Munafiqun; Morning Surat at-Taghabun, Surat at-Talaq, Surat at-Tahrim (Juz 29); Surat al-Mulk, Surat al-Qalam; Asr Surat al-Haqqah, Surat al-Ma'arij, Surat Nuh;------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 03/28/2026, 08 Shawwal 1447 --
Nahar - Lakehomes - Orchard - Powai Plaza - JVLR - IIT Main Gate - Padmavati Devi - Powai Internal - Hiranandani Hospital - Techno - Main - Lake Blvd - JVLR - Raambagh - Nahar.
Time: 0:49:35
Mileage: 4.76 Miles - 7.66 Km
Pace: 10'25"/mile - 6'28"/km
Weather: 26C; Humidity 86%
Weight: 70 kg - 154.3 lbsFinally, I break this insomnia cycle. I do wake up often, but manage to sleep back just as often, and eventually get up rested at 4:30. I switch to re-learning the opening Rukus of Surat Ali-Imraan in anticipation of my trip to France.
I do feel some back pain and general stiffness, but decide to run nonetheless. This is fine overall, I gently push the distance a little, as usual focused on a comfortable pace. It is hot even in the early morning, but I manage. I have run around 3 hours on this reprise week.
On Sunday, after struggling again with multiple episodes of sleep in the heat, I get up around 4am, eager to perform Tilaavat Qur'an in the hours before dawn. And that day, I finish my 38th reading of the Book, the one that I had interrupted for Ramadhan. As I had hoped, I am ready to start the 40th during my trip to France.
38th Tilaavat Asr Surat al-Jinn, Surat al-Muzzammil, Surat al-Muddaththir; Maghrib Surat al-Qiyamah, Surat ad-Dahr, Surat al-Mursalat (Juz 30).
38th Tilaavat Sunday before Fajr Surat an-Naba, Surat an-Nazi'at, Surat Abasa, Surat at-Takwir, Surat al-Infitar, Surat al-Mutaffifin, Surat al-Inshiqaq; Dhuhr Surat al-Buruj, Surat at-Tariq, Surat al-A'la, Surat al-Ghashiyah, Surat al-Fajr, Surat al-Balad, Surat ash-Shams, Surat al-Lail, Surat adh-Dhuha, Surat al-Inshirah, Surat at-Tin, Surat al-Alaq, Surat al-Qadr, Surat al-Bayyinah, Surat az-Zalzalah, Surat al-'Adiyat, Surat al-Qari'ah, Surat at-Takathur, Surat al-'Asr, Surat al-Humazah, Surat al-Fil, Surat Quraish, Surat al-Ma'un, Surat al-Kauthar, Surat al-Kafirun, Surat an-Nasr, Surat al-Lahab, Surat al-Ikhlaas, Surat al-Falaq, Surat an-Naas; Surat al-Fatihah, Surat Al-Baqarah till v 5.
-- Our House in Sawale --
-- Me with my Mother, Me with my Grandparents --
Paris, Bords de Seine (6.31 Miles) -- 04/05/26
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Monday 03/30/2026, 10 Shawwal 1447 --
Chandivali - Lakehomes - Orchard - Main St - Hiranandani Hospital - Padmavati Devi - IIT Far Gate - JVLR - Raambagh - Nahar.
Time: 0:56:24
Mileage: 5.4 Miles - 8.7 Km
Pace: 10'26"/mile - 6'29"/km
Weather: 25C; Humidity 86%
Weight: 69.4 kg - 153 lbsI wake up around 2:30, Gulzar is already awake, she says she been waken by the doorbell, although I haven't heard anything. We both struggle to fall back asleep, but I eventually do make it, and wake up very well at 4:30, very silently to not wake her up. I complete re-learning the first two rukus of Surat ali-Imraan, just in time for trip to France.
The run feels quite good, all in all. It continues to be very hot, but I manage, and extend to nearly an hour, at a good controlled pace. Soreness seems under control.
40th Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat al-Fatihah, Surat Al-Baqarah till v 72; Asr Surat Al-Baqarah till v 97; Surat Al-Baqarah till v 142 (Juz 2); Night Surat Al-Baqarah till v 197 (in Mumbai airport).
-- With Jeremie and Justin --
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Wednesday 04/01/2026, 12 Shawwal 1447 -- PARIS
Berthollet - Claude Bernard - Gay Lussac - Bld St Michel - Quai de Seine - Rue du Bac - Blvd Raspail - Rue d'Assas - Luxembourg - Jardins de l'Observatoire - Port Royal.
Time: 0:44:28
Mileage: 4.13 Miles - 6.65 Km
Pace: 10'46"/mile - 6'41"/km
Weather: 11C;
Weight: 69.4 kg - 153 lbs40th Tilaavat Tuesday afternoon Surat Al-Baqarah till v 229; Evening Surat Al-Baqarah till v 253 (Juz 3), till v 261.
Mediocre run. Slept excessively, up around 5:30. Out before 7am, around day break. Very cold, but adjust. But I don't feel great (understandable), heavy stomach. Still, along the Quais and improvised back through Raspail / Assas. Yesterday Jeremie and Justin.
Wednesday: I have gotten up early around 4am. We try to go to the Louvre, but impossible without a reservation! We then walk to Palais Royal, then after lunch rue de Rivoli, to Place Vendome (passing absurd "instagram queues" at some places). On an inspiration, Mamie Eliane takes us to Boucheron, where we visit, sit for tea, try jewellry. Quite amazing actually.
40th Tilaavat Morning Surat Al-Baqarah till end, Surat Ali-Imraan till v 21; Asr Surat Ali-Imraan till v 92 (Juz 4);
-- Inside Boucheron's --
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Friday 04/03/2026, 14 Shawwal 1447 -- PARIS
Berthollet - Rue de l'Arbalete - Rue Censier - Rue Buffon - Quais de Seine - to Pont Royal & Back - Jardin des Plantes - Censier - Rue de l'Arbalete - Berthollet
Time: 1:05:54
Mileage: 6.02 Miles - 9.69 Km
Pace: 10'57"/mile - 6'48"/km
Weather: 6C;
Weight: 69 kg - 152.1 lbs40th Tilaavat Thursday before Fajr Surat Ali-Imraan till v 121; Surat Ali-Imraan till v 181; Morning Surat Ali-Imraan till end; Asr Surat An-Nisaah till v 24 (Juz 5).
Slept well, woke up "late" at 5:30. I embark on this run, very cold at first, but gradually warm up into it. I feel generally good, breath is ok at this slow pace, slightly stiff and sore, but much better than Wednesday.
I extend the run beyond that, running along the Seine from Austerlitz till I can go no more at the far end of the Louvre, return the same way and through the Jardin des Plantes, a fairly long run at this stage.
Again, I feel good today.
Friday: Last day with Jeremie and Justin. We visit Notre-Dame in spite of a long queue, which we cut. Late lunch "Canard aux Oranges", and they are off.
40th Tilaavat Asr Surat An-Nisaah till v 105; Surat An-Nisaah till v 148 (Juz 6); Ishaa Surat An-Nisaah till end.------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 04/05/2026, 16 Shawwal 1447 -- PARIS
Blvd Port Royal - Blvd St Marcel - Blvd de l'Hopital - Pont d'Austerlitz - Quais de Seine (Rive Droite) - Pont du Carrousel - Quais de Seine (Rive Gauche) - Jardin des Plantes - Censier - Rue de l'Arbalete - Berthollet
Time: 1:07:52
Mileage: 6.31 Miles - 10.16 Km
Pace: 10'45"/mile - 6'41"/km
Weather: 13C;
Weight: 68.7 kg - 151.4 lbs40th Tilaavat Saturday Morning Surat al-Maidah till v 43; Asr Surat al-Maidah till v 83 (Juz 7), till end.
Up very well at 5am. Less cold. Good run. Rive droite this time. Late revelers. Mounts of bottles.
We go to Rambouillet. La route. Le tunnel. Place de l'Eglise. I remember everything. The house. In the Castle Park, a picnic. A brief shower, followed by sunshine.
40th Tilaavat Asr Surat al-An'aam till v 111 (Juz 8); Asr Surat al-An'aam till end.
-- Our former House in Rambouillet, in the "Parc du Chateau" --
London, Along the Thames (7.12 Miles) -- 04/08/26
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Tuesday 04/07/2026, 18 Shawwal 1447 -- LONDON
Holiday Inn - Great Portland - Oxford Circus - Regent St - Piccadilly - Haymarket - Trafalgar - Northumberland - Victoria Embankment - to Blackfriars Bridge & along the Thames - Westminster - Horse Guards Rd - Waterloo - Piccadilly - Regents St - Oxford Circus - Great Portland - Holiday Inn.
Time: 1:01:14
Mileage: 6.1 Miles - 9.81 Km
Pace: 10'02"/mile - 6'14"/km
Weather: 6C;40th Tilaavat Monday Fajr Surat al-A'raf till v 54; Morning Surat al-A'raf till v 88 (Juz 9), till v 109; Asr Surat al-A'raf till v 158.
Arrived yesterday via Eurostar, no problem. Up around 4:40, feeling very good, well rested. Namaaz back properly (already my feet have lost the habit). Out around 6:30. Cold at first, but like in Paris, warm up to it. Try something slightly new, to the Thames, trying to reach Tower Bridge, but turn back with the bridge in view, too far. Fantastic clear weather (for some reason always in London). Feel good overall. Back via Big Ben / Waterloo, to see something different.
40th Tilaavat Morning Surat al-A'raf till end; Maghrib Surat al-Anfal till v 41 (Juz 10), till end.------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 04/08/2026, 19 Shawwal 1447 -- LONDON
Holiday Inn - Great Portland - Oxford Circus - Regent St - Piccadilly Circus - Haymarket - Trafalgar - Strand - Waterloo Bridge - Victoria Embankment - Paul's Walk - to London Bridge & Back - Victoria Embankment - Northumberland - Haymarket - Piccadilly Circus - Regent St - Oxford Circus - Great Portland - Holiday Inn
Time: 1:13:44
Mileage: 7.12 Miles - 11.46 Km
Pace: 10'21"/mile - 6'26"/km
Weather: 8C;Broke rule at 2am and watched the news. Ultimatum called off. Up at 3:45. Feel good. Cold. Aim to reach Tower Bridge. Rand. Maze along the Thames. Don't quite make it, wisely turn back at last bridge, this is already my longest since Ramzaan. Feel good. Overate yesterday (and during this whole trip!).
Later, to Heathrow. Early, but with actually not that much time to spare. Find Prayer room for Namaaz after some time. Interrupted in my reading, cannot properly complete. New formalities. I embark. Good flight, this time through Egypt. No incident.
40th Tilaavat Fajr Surat at-Taubah till v 30; Maghrib Surat at-Taubah till v 48 (in Heathrow).------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 04/10/2026, 21 Shawwal 1447 -- MUMBAI
Nahar - Raambagh - Orchard - Powai Plaza - Central - Main St - Lake Blvd Overpass - Lake Promenade - Raambagh - Nahar.
Time: 0:43:32
Mileage: 4.29 Miles - 6.9 Km
Pace: 10'09"/mile - 6'18"/km
Weather: 25C; Humidity 68%
Weight: 71.5 kg - 157.6 lbsSlept enormously yesterday and last night!! Wake up well around 4:45, alhamdulillah. Return to Surat at-Taubah, which I had imperfectly read at the airport. Then Surat Yaseen. I leave on the run "very late" around 7:10. It is obviously much warmer than in Europe. I feel challenged at first, "bloated" is the best way to describe it (weight gain, and feeling stuffed). But I get into the run, gaining comfort, and finish surprisingly well.
40th Tilaavat Fajr Surat at-Taubah till v 81; Morning Surat at-Taubah till v 94 (Juz 11), till v 111; Asr Surat at-Taubah till end, Surat Yunus till v 41;------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 04/11/2026, 22 Shawwal 1447 -- MUMBAI
Chandivali - SM Shetty - Cliff - Central - Techno - Hiranandani Hospital - Nana Palshikar - Padmavati Devi - IIT Far Gate - JVLR, down to LBS - Back up IIT Hill - JVLR, Powai Lake - Raambagh - Nahar.
Time: 1:12:13
Mileage: 6.65 Miles - 10.7 Km
Pace: 10'52"/mile - 6'45"/km
Weather: 27C; Humidity 76%
Weight: 71.5 kg - 157.6 lbsBad night, 2:30, uncomfortable. Do go back to sleep, wake up around 4:30. Good Namaaz, now around 5:10. Run, goal today is about an hour to get 4hrs weekly. A bad start, laborious, bloated, out of breath. Still feel like I am evacuating the overeating from the trip. But I gradually relax into it, in spite of the great heat, and feel better in the second half (paradoxically, particularly on the climb, which relaxes me). At a slow pace, I manage the return quite well, and overshoot my goal after all, my first 4+ hours week since Ramadhan.
Weight gain is confirmed, it will take some time to bring it back.
40th Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat Yunus till end; Ishaa Surat Hud till v 6 (Juz 12), till v 69.
Sunday Fajr Surat Hud till end; Dhuhr Surat Yusuf till v 53 (Juz 13), till v 58.
Heat (6.07 Miles) -- 04/18/26
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Monday 04/13/2026, 24 Shawwal 1447 -- Heat!
Raambagh - JVLR - Orchard (from far end) - Lakehomes - Chandivali
Time: 0:37:49
Mileage: 3.63 Miles - 5.84 Km
Pace: 10'25"/mile - 6'28"/km
Weather: 28C; Humidity 74%
Weight: 71.5 kg - 157.6 lbsAfter multiple wake-ups and dreams (among which I was fleeing through a house on a bicycle, disturbing a naked lady), I wake up around 5:10, having forgotten to put on the alarm. The run is quite mediocre, I still feel heavy, bloated, sore and out-of-breath (all that!), at least at first, but patiently get into the run. To compound matters, it feels very hot this morning, I am drenched in sweat.
This is meant to be a shorter week anyway, after the recent excesses in Paris and London. I really need to bring my weight back under control. Patience...
40th Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat Yusuf till end; Asr Surat ar-Ra'd; Maghrib Surat Ibrahim.------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 04/15/2026, 26 Shawwal 1447 -- NZ Hostel
Dneg - Royal Palms Rd - Cross Aarey - Straight - NZ Hostel Climb - Taalab - Aarey Dairy - Royal Palms - Dneg
Time: 0:48:21
Mileage: 4.56 Miles - 7.33 Km
Pace: 10'36"/mile - 6'35"/km
Weather: 26C; Humidity 72%
Weight: 70.8 kg - 156.1 lbs40th Tilaavat Tuesday Morning Surat al-Hijr v 1 (Juz 14), till end; Dhuhr Surat an-Nahl till v 66; Asr Surat an-Nahl till end (Juz 15).
Up around 4:30, to work by 7am. Expecting a mediocre short run, like Monday, but I am surprised that things are actually quite good. I am still a little sore in back and hamstrings, but at least my breath is good (it helps that this run starts downhill). Given this unexpected return to form, I decide for the NZ Hostel climb, which I pass well in control, and return well to Royal Palms, including the last steep climb. It is again phenomenally hot, but I manage well (but I do continue to sweat abundantly after the run!).
40th Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat al-Isra till v 85; Asr Surat al-Isra till end, Surat al-Kahf till v 32.------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 04/17/2026, 28 Shawwal 1447 -- Heat
Nahar - Chandivali - Raheja Vihar short - Saki Vihar - Solaris Complex - Back through the Chawl - Saki Vihar - Chandivali - Mhada - Nahar.
Time: 0:38:32
Mileage: 3.69 Miles - 5.94 Km
Pace: 10'26"/mile - 6'29"/km
Weather: 27C; Humidity 79%
Weight: 70 kg - 154.3 lbs40th Tilaavat Thursday Morning Surat al-Kahf till v 75 (Juz 16), till end; Dhuhr Surat Maryam; Asr Surat Ta-Ha till v 105; Maghrib Surat Ta-Ha till end (Juz 17).
Up too early at 4am, as Gulzar has again heard a "ringing" sound (in her sleep?). I feel tired, but I still go out on this run, keeping it short. It is again phenomenally hot even at sunrise, and I keep the effort moderate. I am a bit sore, particularly in the back, most likely from sitting on the ground too much reading the Qur'an. For variety, I return through the chawl alley along Saki Vihar.
In the good news, I have reclaimed my desired weight surprisingly quickly! I really did not expect it to happen so fast... But let's see if it holds. Also, a week after my return, the swelling in my feet has finally resorbed.
40th Tilaavat Morning Surat al-Anbiya till v 76; Asr Surat al-Anbiya till end, Surat al-Hajj (Juz 18).------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 04/18/2026, 29 Shawwal 1447 -- Heat
Nahar - Raambagh - JVLR (EB) - IIT - to LBS - Back JVLR (WB) - IIT Hill - Powai Plaza - Orchard -
Time: 1:05:28
Mileage: 6.07 Miles - 9.76 Km
Pace: 10'47"/mile - 6'42"/km
Weather: 28C; Humidity 80%
Weight: 70.3 kg - 155 lbsI get up around 4:20. I have returned to re-learning Surat al-An'aam, and praying it in Namaaz, after returning from France. It is again very hot even before sunrise, and I feel quite unmotivated to run, fearing another unpleasant sludge through the heat. But I do go out around 6:15, and at a very cautious pace, do find comfort outside, along the familiar lake / IIT route, which I extend to about an hour. I do return utterly drenched, but satisfied with this well controlled run. I have managed to regain my weight surprisingly quickly, and the swollen in my feet is finally gone.
40th Tilaavat Asr Surat al-Mu'minun (in Sawale); Sunday Morning Surat al-Nur; Surat Furqan till v 21 (Juz 19), till end;
Passpoli, Aarey Hill and Pipeline (7.72 Miles) -- 04/26/26
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Monday 04/20/2026, 02 Dhu al-Qa'dah 1447 -- Heat
Nahar - Raambagh - JVLR WB - Saki Vihar - Raheja Vihar (climb) - Chandivali - Mhada - Nahar.
Time: 0:44:55
Mileage: 4.28 Miles - 6.89 Km
Pace: 10'29"/mile - 6'31"/km
Weather: 28C; Humidity 75%
Weight: 69.9 kg - 154.1 lbsI wake up very well at 4:30am, feeling well rested, after the weekend in Sawale. By comparison, the heat here feels less. But still, I feel somewhat unmotivated to run, probably because of the heat, and not sure what route to take.
I eventually settle for this slight variation on familiar routes, feeling again a little bloated and sore at the start (in spite of my excellent weight), but finding my rhythm gradually, in spite of the heat. I conclude by the Raheja Vihar climb, as often, the climbing motion paradoxically relaxes me.
40th Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat ash-Shu'ara; Asr Surat an-Naml till v 45; Surat an-Naml till v 60 (Juz 20), till end.------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 04/22/2026, 04 Dhu al-Qa'dah 1447 -- Baba Ambedkar
Dneg - Royal Palms Rd - Aarey Dairy - Konkan Vikas Mahamandal - Babasaheb Ambedkar - Taalab - Aarey Dairy - Royal Palms - Dneg.
Time: 0:58:03
Mileage: 5.38 Miles - 8.65 Km
Pace: 10'47"/mile - 6'42"/km
Weather: 28C; Humidity 70%
Weight: 70.7 kg - 155.9 lbs40th Tilaavat Tuesday Morning Surat al-Qasas till v 43; Dhuhr Surat al-Qasas till end; Surat al-Ankabut till v 14; Asr Surat al-Ankabut till v 45 (Juz 21), till end.
Unlike the previous night, slept very well, multiple episodes of sleep, and up around 4:40. Learning the Ibrahim verses from Surat al-An'aam. I have celebrated my weight a little too soon though, it is still a little higher than desired (although within reach).
I start the run from Royal Palms at the usual 7am. Again, I start stiff and tentative, but patiently seek my rhythm as I go, and as I feel better, lengthen the run a bit, returning via the Baba Ambedkar road, through the hamlets. This is now fully paved, a sharp contrast to what it was. I feel ok overall, but this is about as much effort as I should put right now. The heat is still a factor, but I feel adjusted to it (as long as I dampen my efforts).
40th Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat ar-Rum, Surat Luqman; Asr Surat as-Sajdah, Surat al-Ahzab till v 31 (Juz 22); Maghrib Surat al-Ahzab till end.------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 04/24/2026, 06 Dhu al-Qa'dah 1447 -- Heat
Nahar - Raambagh - JVLR WB - Saki Vihar, to Westin Hotel & Back - Saki Vihar - Raheja Vihar short - Chandivali - Nahar.
Time: 0:44:03
Mileage: 4.27 Miles - 6.87 Km
Pace: 10'19"/mile - 6'24"/km
Weather: 27C; Humidity 72%
Weight: 70.3 kg - 155 lbs40th Tilaavat Morning Surat Saba; Dhuhr Surat Fatir, Surat Yaseen till v 22 (Juz 23), till end; Asr Surat as-Saffat.
For once, I wake up with the alarm at 5am. And for once, I do not recite Surat Yaseen in Namaaz on Jummah, preferring the "Ibrahim verses" from Surat al-Ana'aam, that I have been relearning. This all works out well.
I am still out around 6:30. It still feels phenomenally hot outside, even this early. And I still start the run slow and feeling strangely bloated, a bit uncomfortable, but patiently bide my time to find some acceptable rhythm. Yesterday, I saw another large langur in Hiranandani, casually sitting on a car in the middle of school drops, then extending his long slender body to run and sit again across the street.
40th Tilaavat Before Jummah Surat Saad till v 41; After Jummah Surat Saad till v 65; Asr Surat Saad till end, Surat az-Zumar till v 32 (Juz 24); Maghrib Surat az-Zumar till end, Surat al-Mu'min till v 28; Ishaa Surat al-Mu'min till v 51.------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 04/25/2026, 07 Dhu al-Qa'dah 1447 -- Aarey Hill & Pipeline
Nahar - Raambagh - Lake Promenade - Platform - Saki Vihar - Aarey Hill climb - Descent - Marol Maroshi - Aarey Pipeline - Saki Vihar - Lake Powai - Raambagh - Nahar.
Time: 1:21:51
Mileage: 7.72 Miles - 12.43 Km
Pace: 10'36"/mile - 6'35"/km
Weather: 30C; Humidity 58%
Weight: 70.3 kg - 155 lbsI am planning on roughly an hour today, not sure where to go. But once out, in spite of the heat, I feel better than the last few days, the bloated feeling has subsided. I head out towards the Aarey Pipeline, still not completely sure of the route for the day.
But in a surprise twist, feeling quite good, I ambitiously head out straight through Passpoli, to climb up Aarey Hill. This good form continues, as I head back through the Pipeline, hoping to see horses again (which I don't), running against the flow of chawl dwellers walking towards Marol. This is a good choice, as the absence of vehicular traffic soothes my effort. In spite of another day of formidable heat, I feel good throughout, always careful to manage my effort, and get by on a single small water bottle.
All in all, an excellent run, much more ambitious than planned, my longest run so far this season.
40th Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat al-Mu'min till end, Surat Ha-Mim Sajdah till v 47 (Juz 25), till end; Asr Surat ash-Shura, Surat az-Zukhruf till end (in Galleria).
40th Reading, Giving the Adhaan (8.08 Miles) -- 05/02/26
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Monday 04/27/2026, 09 Dhu al-Qa'dah 1447 -- Vihar Lake
Nahar - Raambagh - Lake Platform - Saki Vihar - Dargah Rd - IIM - Vihar Lake Climb - Back down - Saki Vihar - Solaris Complex Chawl - Raheja Vihar short - Chandivali - Mhada - Nahar.
Time: 1:03:03
Mileage: 5.97 Miles - 9.6 Km
Pace: 10'33"/mile - 6'34"/km
Weather: 29C; Humidity 87%
Weight: 70.2 kg - 154.8 lbs40th Tilaavat Sunday Dhuhr Surat ad-Dukhan, Surat al-Jathiyah (Juz 26), Surat al-Ahqaf;
Up to early at 3:45, but well awake, I get up, a bit tired, but this actually pays out: I finish learning the two "Ibrahim" Rukus from Surat al-An'aam, and recite them in Namaaz.
Ready early, I leave around 6:15 (already daylight), fearing exhaustion. It is again phenomenally hot this morning, but I manage well, careful to keep heat and breath in control. Gradually emboldened, I opt for the Climb to Vihar Lake, small roads largely deserted so early, and manage the effort well. I lengthen the return via the Chawl along Saki Vihar, for an hour plus run, remarkable in this heat.
40th Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat Muhammad, Surat al-Fath, Surat al-Hujurat; Asr Surat Qaf, Surat adh-Dhariyat till v 31 (Juz 27), till end.------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 04/29/2026, 11 Dhu al-Qa'dah 1447 -- Imperial Palace
Dneg - Orchard - Walking Zone - Imperial Palace Climb - Descent - Khet - Lakshmi rd - to Aarey rd & back - Back via Piccadilly IV Climb - Orchard Mall
Time: 1:01:22
Mileage: 5.46 Miles - 8.78 Km
Pace: 11'14"/mile - 6'59"/km
Weather: 29C; Humidity 74%
Weight: 70.7 kg - 155.9 lbs40th Tilaavat Tuesday Morning Surat at-Tur, Surat an-Najm, Surat al-Qamar; Dhuhr Surat Ar-Rahman, Surat al-Waqi'ah, Surat al-Hadid (Juz 28); Asr Surat al-Mujadilah.
Another very hot day, but luckily I am feeling well, after a second good night's sleep (up at 4:40). I again rehearse and pray the "Ibrahim verses" in Fajr Namaaz. Encouraged by my good disposition, I decide to confront the steep climbs around the Imperial Palace, and the beautiful area leading to Aarey road. It is particularly calm at this early hour (although the sun is already well up).
In "energy conversation mode", which I manage successfully, I clear the climbs well, managing breath, heat, and burning sensation in the legs. On the way back, I witness two dogs chasing away a long slender Langur monkey.
40th Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat al-Hashr, Surat al-Mumtahanah; Asr Surat As-Saff, Surat al-Jumu'ah, Surat al-Munafiqun, Surat at-Taghabun, Surat at-Talaq, Surat at-Tahrim (Juz 29).------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 04/30/2026, 12 Dhu al-Qa'dah 1447 -- The Adhaan
Dneg - Royal Palms Rd - Aarey Dairy - Konkan Vikas Mahamandal - Babasaheb Ambedkar - Talaab - Aarey Dairy - Royal Palms - Piccadilly I - Orchid Mall
Time: 0:58:51
Mileage: 5.48 Miles - 8.82 Km
Pace: 10'44"/mile - 6'40"/km
Weather: 28C; Humidity 75%
Weight: 70.7 kg - 155.9 lbsUp too early at 4:15, feeling tired and in a sulky mood. Nevertheless I proceed with today's plan, which is to run another 1 hour or so, only on flatter roads. Out early, I start at 7am sharp, after dodging on the road an incredible series of motorcycle incidents, where one after the other, they senselessly pop up right in front of me!
It is very hot again. I feel quite tired, but as often, the run gradually lifts my spirits a bit, I find a rhythm. I opt for the Konkan Vikas area, returning via Baba Ambedkar. I am tempted on the way to explore another access to the JVLR, but I do need a better reckon, and to feel fresher than today. I finish the run ok, keeping things in control at a slow pace, finishing with the steep Piccadilly I climb. I have stabilized slightly overweight, but patience.
At mid-day, still tired, I head to the Patel 7 Masjid for Dhuhr ki Namaaz. I find the small Masjid empty, no shoes in front of the door. Could this be the opportunity I have been yearning for? I perform the Wudhu rapidly, as there is still no one, with clear purpose, I slide the small windows, turn on the mic. The learned young man comes in then, as I am about ready. I ask, "Main Adhaan doun?" - "Han, de do" he approves. And so I proceed. For the first time, I give the Adhaan at the Masjid.
But my voice is trembling from intimidation. Is that perceptible? I hear my voice gently amplified. I try to build confidence, not dwell too long to not reveal the trembling, but still as I've practiced every day several times a day. My voice seems to find more assurance, although I am not quite sure if I hear it properly. I do manage to complete the Adhaan, exactly like I would at home, with no apparent mistakes, although like in my piano days, I cannot remember after the fact if I have actually performed all the parts.
The young man has returned from Wudhu, as we both take place for Sunnat Rakats, I slightly trip on the mats. Things slide back into normal, others arrive, in surprisingly high numbers, he performs the Namaaz, while someone else has taken the Iqamat. Has anyone other than him heard my Adhaan? I am still shaking at the event while I pray Namaaz, distracted by my performance. I have been fantasizing this moment for so long, it feels enormous that it has happened now, in a way so simply, on any random day where I was feeling tired. With that comes renewed sorrow at the idea that we are planned to move away from Royal Palms, to settle in the new Film City office. More than ever, I deplore this move. After this long-awaited break-through, will I ever get to return here?
40th Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat al-Mulk, Surat al-Qalam, Surat al-Haqqah; Asr Surat al-Ma'arij, Surat Nuh, Surat al-Jinn, Surat al-Muzzammil.------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 05/02/2026, 14 Dhu al-Qa'dah 1447 -- Pipeline
Nahar - Raambagh - Lake Platform - Saki Vihar - Aarey Pipeline - to Stream Crossing - Back same way.
Time: 1:25:50
Mileage: 8.08 Miles - 13 Km
Pace: 10'37"/mile - 6'36"/km
Weather: 29C; Humidity 72%
Weight: 70.5 kg - 155.4 lbs40th Tilaavat Friday before Jummah Surat al-Muddaththir, Surat al-Qiyamah, Surat ad-Dahr, Surat al-Mursalat (Juz 30);
I have slept over-abudantly yesterday, and again through the night, up at 4:30 after multiple episodes and dreams. I am out at 6:15, again to abormally hot temperatures. My goal should be no more than an hour, but I talk myself into running along the Aarey Pipeline.
I start a little tentative, but find comfort, once away from traffic along the pipeline. I do turn back at the bridge, wisely not extending further, and finish ok, but under phenomenal heat, occasionally drinking from a small bottle. As often, I find that proper positioning and relaxation of my shoulders are key, to not let the tension take hold.
This has been my longest run since Ramadhan, and my longest week. But perhaps this is unwise, under this heat. I feel more drained than energized after the run, and prompt to worry about just about anything.
40th Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat an-Naba, Surat an-Nazi'at, Surat Abasa, Surat at-Takwir, Surat al-Infitar, Surat al-Mutaffifin, Surat al-Inshiqaq, Surat al-Buruj, Surat at-Tariq, Surat al-A'la, Surat al-Ghashiyah, Surat al-Fajr, Surat al-Balad; Asr Surat ash-Shams, Surat al-Lail, Surat adh-Dhuha, Surat al-Inshirah, Surat at-Tin, Surat al-Alaq, Surat al-Qadr, Surat al-Bayyinah, Surat az-Zalzalah, Surat al-'Adiyat, Surat al-Qari'ah, Surat at-Takathur, Surat al-'Asr, Surat al-Humazah, Surat al-Fil, Surat Quraish, Surat al-Ma'un, Surat al-Kauthar, Surat al-Kafirun, Surat an-Nasr, Surat al-Lahab, Surat al-Ikhlaas, Surat al-Falaq, Surat an-Naas;
Surat al-Fatihah, Surat Al-Baqarah till v 5.
Heat (6.33 Miles) -- 05/10/26
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Monday 05/04/2026, 16 Dhu al-Qa'dah 1447 -- HEAT
Chandivali - Lakehomes - Orchard - Main St - Central - SM Shetty - Powai Vihar - Lake Rd - Raambagh - Nahar.
Time: 0:39:02
Mileage: 3.8 Miles - 6.11 Km
Pace: 10'16"/mile - 6'23"/km
Weather: 29C; Humidity 71%
Weight: 69.7 kg - 153.6 lbsA purposefully shorter run after last week's excesses, but I don't feel so good in spite of good sleep, and suffer greatly from the heat! Strong encouragement to make this week much easier.
41st Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat al-Fatihah, Surat Al-Baqarah till v 62; Asr Surat Al-Baqarah till v 122; Maghrib Surat Al-Baqarah till v 142 (Juz 2); Ishaa Surat Al-Baqarah till v 177.------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 05/06/2026, 18 Dhu al-Qa'dah 1447 -- Visa Appt
Nahar - Raambagh - Orchard - Lake Blvd -
Time: 0:34:00
Mileage: 3.18 Miles - 5.12 Km
Pace: 10'41"/mile - 6'38"/km
Weather: 28C; Humidity 75%
Weight: 70.3 kg - 155 lbs41st Tilaavat Tuesday Morning Surat Al-Baqarah till v 222; Dhuhr Surat Al-Baqarah till v 253 (Juz 3), till v 258; Asr Surat Al-Baqarah till end.
A very mediocre run. I again don't feel good, struggling to find my breath, and this strange sensation in the stomach. I am anyway excessively concerned by this morning's visa appointment. A difficult period, where everything seems to weigh me down.
Later, we drive to the Visa Appointment, we arrive an hour early, luckily she is let in right away, and all proceeds without a problem (although I do get a few phone calls from inside). Hopefully this should alleviate the disproportionate tension that has been weighing on me.
41st Tilaavat Asr Surat Ali-Imraan till v 92 (Juz 4); Maghrib Surat Ali-Imraan till v 121.------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 05/08/2026, 20 Dhu al-Qa'dah 1447 -- Sakinaka Pipeline
Nahar - Raambagh - JVLR WB - Saki Vihar - Khairani Rd - Pipeline - Khairani Rd (E) - Nahar.
Time: 0:54:00
Mileage: 5.1 Miles - 8.2 Km
Pace: 10'35"/mile - 6.35"/km
Weather: 29C; Humidity 79%
Weight: 70.7 kg - 155.9 lbs41st Tilaavat Thursday Morning Surat Ali-Imraan till v 181; Dhuhr Surat Ali-Imraan till end, Surat An-Nisaah till v 24 (Juz 5), till v 26;
I wake up normally from a stressfull dream where due to a series of mistakes and obstacles I am unable to go to Masjid for Jummah (which upsets me greatly). It is still extremely hot, and I feel thoroughly unmotivated to run, feeling another laborious unpleasant trudge in the heat.
But once out, I am surprised to find that I am actually ok. The stomach discomfort is virtually gone, and I am able to find my breath comfortably. So I extend this run far beyond what I anticipated, making a large loop through JVLR / Saki Vihar, returning via the Pipeline road through Mohili village, which is particularly peaceful with none of the schools operational. Three barking chasing dog incidents though, which I tame easily.
Again, an unexpectedly good run today. And later, I do go to Masjid, and the Imaam has given the Namaaz to one of his pupils, among the young men who was reciting Tarawee. Recognizing in his Namaaz among the last verses of Surat Ali-Imraan, I am unexpectedly moved to tears. And today, the beggars are finally allowed to stay in front of the Masjid, I can give to the women.
41st Tilaavat Friday morning Surat An-Nisaah till v 43; Asr Surat An-Nisaah till v 101; Surat An-Nisaah till v 148 (Juz 6); Maghrib Surat An-Nisaah till end.------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 05/10/2026, 22 Dhu al-Qa'dah 1447 --
Nahar - Raambagh - Lake Powai - IIT Far Gate - IIT Hill to LBS and climb back up - Padmavati Devi - Nana Palshikar - Hiranandani Hospital - Techno - Central - SM Shetty - Chandivali
Time: 1:07:58
Mileage: 6.33 Miles - 10.18 Km
Pace: 10'44"/mile - 6'40"/km
Weather: 28C; Humidity 81%
Weight: 70.2 kg - 154.7 lbs41st Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat al-Maidah till v 51; Asr Surat al-Maidah till v 83 (Juz 7), till v 87; Maghrib Surat al-Maidah till v 101; Ishaa Surat al-Maidah till end.
I finish the week much better than I started. I again feel good today, in spite of the continuing heat. My goal is to run about an hour (and no more than that!), and I end up settling for the classic Lake Powai / IIT Hill run, back through the Chawl to Hiranandani. Like Friday, with a cautious start I am soon reassured that my breath is fine, and from there, enjoy the morning. I have started earlier around 6am, and it is particularly quiet on a Sunday morning, except for the dogs who, alone in the streets, act more "playful". I seem to have recovered from the earlier mis-shape, but will continue to take it cautiously, especially in this heat. I have probably ramped back up too fast after Ramadhan.
41st Tilaavat Morning Surat al-An'aam till v 95; Asr Surat al-An'aam till v 111 (Juz 8);
Sadarmangala, Kodigehalli, Ayappa Nagar, Basavanapura (7.28 Miles) -- 05/15/26
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Tuesday 05/12/2026, 24 Dhu al-Qa'dah 1447 -- Sadarmangala
Holiday Inn - Sai Baba Hospital - Rd N 7 - Basavana Nagar - Hoodi - Station Overpass - Sadarmangala - Behind Shantiniketan - Back
Time: 0:45:05
Mileage: 4.41 Miles - 7.09 Km
Pace: 10'13"/mile - 6'21"/km
Weather: 26C41st Tilaavat Monday Morning Surat al-An'aam till end (in Mumbai Airport); Asr Surat al-A'raf till v 54 (in Bangalore).
Yesterday evening, on our first day in Bangalore, we went to a long large dinner, which ended too late for me (around 11pm), and following which I slept poorly. I still wake up before 5am, but feeling tired.
Still, I embark on this run, deciding to explore a different area from last time, heading down Basavana Nagar towards Hoodi, and back along the tracks through Sadarmangala (this will end up being the theme of the week), returning crossing the tracks and on the back side of Shantineketan. I am generally tired, but I manage this ok. And to my satisfaction, I find time for Namaaz, and I find time for Tilaavat, which I will not yield during this trip.
41st Tilaavat Morning Surat al-A'raf till v 88 (Juz 9); Asr Surat al-A'raf till v 142; Ishaa Surat al-A'raf till end.------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 05/13/2026, 25 Dhu al-Qa'dah 1447 -- Kodigehalli
ITPL Main rd - 2nd Main Rd - Hoodi Train Station - Ayappa Nagar - Kodigehalli Rd - Sadarmangala - Shantiniketan Back - Holiday Inn
Time: 0:59:14
Mileage: 5.74 Miles - 9.23 Km
Pace: 10'19"/mile - 6'25"/kmI feel much much better than yesterday, which ended up being one of those dreaded exhaustion days. This morning, I wake up very well with the alarm at 5, after multiple episodes of sleep, and a striking dream where I adamantly pray Namaaz in the middle of a group of strangers. Feeling energized, I go out again at 6:30, determined to return to Kodigehalli road after all these years.
I first take the main road to Hoodi, cross the station at the far end on the tracks, and decide to proceed to Ayappa Nagar, lengthening my initial plan a bit. As usual, this ends up being longer than I remembered, and my run will total about an hour. The Kodigehalli road, which used to be mostly fields, is almost continuously developed now, low houses or complexes, except the brief passing of the village itself, and the small "plastic trash" wood. I feel quite good, temperature is pleasant (although slightly hot when facing sunshine), and I return in comfort.
41st Tilaavat Morning Surat al-Anfal till v 41 (Juz 10); Dhuhr Surat al-Anfal till end; Asr Surat at-Taubah till v 38.------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 05/15/2026, 27 Dhu al-Qa'dah 1447 -- BasavanaPura
Holiday Inn - ITPL Main Rd - 2nd Main Rd - 10th Cross - Hoodi Station - Ayappa Nagar - BasavanaPura - to Old Madras Rd & Back - Ayappa Nagar - Sadarmangala - Back of Shantiniketan - Holiday Inn.
Time: 1:17:41
Mileage: 7.28 Miles - 11.72 Km
Pace: 10'40"/mile - 6'38"/km
Weather: 25C41st Tilaavat Thursday Morning Surat at-Taubah till v 94 (Juz 11); Surat at-Taubah till end; Maghrib Surat Yunus till v 31; Ishaa Surat Yunus till end.
In stark alternance after yesterday's renewed exhaustion, an excellent night sleep, I feel well rested, what a difference it makes!! Like last time in Bangalore, I decide to stick to the same area, as if assigning a theme to each of these trips. So I return via Hoodi to Ayappa Nagar...
I feel a little less sharp than I hoped, slightly bloated, but gradually find my rhythm, helped by the relatively mild weather (and much much drier than Mumbai!). To avoid repeating the last run, I eventually decide to push through BasavanaPura to Old Madras road, relying on my memories of the area. As usual in Bangalore, this proves longer than I anticipated, and I end up running much more than planned. But I feel overall ok, find my bearings in spite of many changes to the landscape, and return peacefully through Sadarmangala - like every day - finding solace away from traffic. The weather is again much more pleasant than in Mumbai, actually quite dry, getting hot in frontal sunshine but otherwise fine. Like last time in Bangalore, the dry air makes my mouth parched, I wish I had taken water.
I had been worried all week about going to Masjid on Jummah, but yesterday, I was able to push back a meeting, freeing up the time, a small victory! So later, I return to the Nexus Mall Masjid, for the third time in Bangalore. After having fought for this, the event actually feels rather routine. The fat Imaam is replaced by another younger man, who skipping Bayaan altogether, proceeds directly into Kutba and Namaaz. I have completed the Namaaz as I hoped, but without the heightened emotions that I have felt here in the past.
41st Tilaavat Morning Surat Hud till v 6 (Juz 12), till v 25; Maghrib Surat Hud till end; Ishaa Surat Yusuf till v 53 (Juz 13), till v 58.------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 05/17/2026, 29 Dhu al-Qa'dah 1447 -- Asalfa
Nahar - Chandivali - Saki Vihar - Saki Naka - Magan Nathuram - Kale Marg - LBS Marg - Nari Seva Sadan - Khairani Rd - Nahar.
Time: 1:07:35
Mileage: 6.22 Miles - 10 Km
Pace: 10'52"/mile - 6'45"/km
Weather: 28C; Humidity 79%
Weight: 70.2 kg - 154.7 lbs41st Tilaavat Saturday Morning Surat Yusuf till end (in Bangalore airport); Dhuhr Surat ar-Ra'd; Asr Surat Ibrahim.
I have returned to Mumbai yesterday. This morning, up early, and out early around 6am. Here is is still phenomenally hot!! After some hesitation, I decide to run about an hour, to complete another 4 hours + week, so I embark beyond Sakinaka to LBS Marg, returning via the Asalfa Chawl on the hill. At this early hour, on a Sunday, streets are mostly empty, making the dogs more aggressive, I meet several incidents along the way, which I deal with poise but cause me to stop. I anyway feel rather tired, not completely finding my breath, try to relax at a slower pace. As often, towards the end of the run, it is mostly in my shoulders that I feel the weight and tension, but this time I am barely able to dispel it.
I have indeed surpassed my 4 hour weekly goal, but I regret it, it proves too much. A short run would have been preferable.
41st Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat al-Hijr v 1 (Juz 14), till end; Asr Surat an-Nahl till v 84; Maghrib Surat an-Nahl till end (Juz 15).
US Visa, Film City Office (5.6 Miles) -- 05/23/26
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Tuesday 05/19/2026, 01 Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 -- 1st day in Film City
Chandivali - SM Shetty - Central - Powai Plaza - Orchard - Rambaagh - Nahar.
Time: 0:42:29
Mileage: 4.17 Miles - 6.72 Km
Pace: 10'10"/mile - 6'19"/km
Weather: 29C; Humidity 75%
Weight: 70.7 kg - 155.9 lbs41st Tilaavat Monday Morning Surat al-Isra (outside US consulate); Surat al-Kahf till v. 75 (Juz 16), till end; Dhuhr Surat Maryam; Asr Surat Ta-Ha till v 77; Maghrib Surat Ta-Ha till end (Juz 17).
Yesterday (Monday), Gulzar had her second Visa appointement at the US consulate. I decide to leave too early, not minding a long wait there, but this again proves excellent, as she is immediately placed into a queue where I cannot follow her. I proceed to sit on the opposite sidewalk, the heat is phenomenal even at this early hour, but I sit in the shade. I soon absorb myself in the Tilaavat of the day, directly on the phone, with no translation, which I fortunately do not need through the all familiar Surat al-Isra. I periodically lift my head, looking at the large groups that are sent into the consulate, and scrutinizing the rare individuals who come out. After about 1.5 hours, I see her among the crowd, somehow, I have missed her coming out. All went very well, only a few questions asked, they didn't even glance at the numerous documents that I had prepared! The Visa will be granted to her, closing an episode that, as often, had caused me disproportionate worries.
Today (Tuesday) marks my first day working in the Film City office, another event that has worried me excessively. I get up early around 4:20, and decide to run from home then go to work. I am out early before 6am, feeling surprisingly excellent! I take the opportunity to perform a shorter faster run, feeling fluid and carried by good breath. I think I am achieving a semi-tempo run, but in the end, my pace dissappoints slightly. Still, this is an excellent run.
I then drive to work, leaving shortly before 7:30, via the JVLR. Contrary to all my fears, the drive is very easy, no particular traffic, and I am let in with no issue at all by the guards at the entrance of Film City. I have been assigned a small conference room as office, which with windows from all sides, feels a bit like a fish bowl. Also, the walls of these conference rooms is of an absurdly saturated red color, a bizzare choice. Nevertheless, I slowly tame the place, and at lunchtime, am able to perform Tilavaat followed by a short Namaaz (4 fardh rak'aat), gradually allaying my fears.
These last two days have both nullified my exaggerated worries, bringing me unexpected enjoyment.
41st Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat al-Anbiya till v 94; Asr Surat al-Anbiya till end, Surat al-Hajj till v 49; Maghrib Surat al-Hajj till end (Juz 18).------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 05/20/2026, 02 Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 --
Nahar - Raheja Vihar (full) - Saki Vihar - Lake Platform - Raambagh - Nahar.
Time: 0:45:38
Mileage: 4.29 Miles - 6.91 Km
Pace: 10'38"/mile - 6'36"/km
Weather: 29C; Humidity 70%
Weight: 70.5 kg - 155.4 lbsI wake up around 3:30, unfortunately unable to sleep back really, and up at 4am. Like yesterday, I am out early, shortly before 6am, for a moderate run. Even so early, it is already phenomenally hot! I don't feel as good as yesterday, a bit drained, but still make the most of this run.
Then like yesterday, I drive to work before 7:30, no particular incident or traffic. In office, I am more emboldened to pray Dhuhr ki Namaaz, this time with 2 Sunnat Rak'aat also, and perform Tilaavat well. I doubt that I'll implement my crazy project of walking to Patel 7 Masjid from here, which would take over a half hour through the chawl, in this incredible heat, and perhaps would land me in trouble with security. Again an overall good day in the new office.
41st Tilaavat Morning Surat al-Mu'minun till v 51; Dhuhr Surat al-Mu'minun till end; Surat an-Nur till v 35; Asr Surat an-Nur till end.------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 05/22/2026, 04 Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 -- Formidable Heat
Nahar - Lakehomes - Orchard - Powai Plaza - Central - Main St - Lake Blvd - JVLR - Raambagh - Nahar.
Time: 0:42:09
Mileage: 4.08 Miles - 6.56 Km
Pace: 10'20"/mile - 6'25"/km
Weather: 31C; Humidity 72%
Weight: 70.1 kg - 154.5 lbs
FL1283 (207M)41st Tilaavat Thursday Morning Surat al-Furqan till v 21 (Juz 21), till end; Dhuhr Surat ash-Shu'ara till v 176; Asr Surat ash-Shu'ara till end, Surat an-Naml till v 60 (Juz 20), till end.
Yesterday was my third day in office. As I have left earlier, largely empty roads allow me to reach in only 30 minutes, similar to the commute to Royal Palms. I have now established myself in a smaller conference room (whose walls are also overwhelmingly red!), feeling more private than the "fish bowl". I continue to get bolder with Namaaz, this time unfurling the Janimaaz (but still no Topi) and adding two Sunnat Rak'aat (but still not the opening four). I imagine this will soon feel quite normal.
This morning, I get up normally around 4:40. In spite of feeling well rested, a somewhat challenging run, probably because of the formidable heat. It is indeed barely runnable, yet I manage, but I wouldn't call it pleasant. I continue re-learning Surat al-An'aam.
Later, as every Jummah, I head to al-Husaynia Masjid for Namaaz, listen attentively to the Bayaan detailing rules and traditions around the upcoming Eid ul-Ad'ha. When I return home, she has received her passport back, stamped with her 10 year US Visa !!!
41st Tilaavat Morning Surat al-Qasas till v 22, till v 43; After Jummah Surat al-Qasas till end, Surat al-Ankabut till v 44 (Juz 21), till end; Asr Surat ar-Rum, Surat Luqman.------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 05/23/2026, 05 Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 -- Formidable Heat
Chandivali - SM Shetty - Cliff - Central - Techno - Hiranandani Hospital - Nana Palshikar - Padmavati Devi - IIT Far Gate - Lake Powai - Raambagh - Nahar.
Time: 1:00:31
Mileage: 5.6 Miles - 9 Km
Pace: 10'48"/mile - 6'43"/km
Weather: 30C; Humidity 72%
Weight: 70.1 kg - 154.5 lbsI wake up at the evil 3am, but fortunately, able to sleep back to a deep striking dream, and get up around 4:45, still in half dream. I have continued to advance in Surat al'An'aam.
It is still phenomenally hot, causing me to fear today's run. Yesterday was all in all unpleasant, and fearing that today would be the same, I resolve on an easy run on familiar roads. But once out, in spite of the relentless heat, I find that I feel better, controlling my pace and temperature at a comfortable pace, able to "stay in the green" at all times. I lengthen the route slightly along the familiar Padmavati Devi Chawl. The length and effort of this run ends up feeling just perfect for the day...
41st Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat as-Sajdah, Surat al-Ahzab till v 31 (Juz 22); Asr Surat al-Ahzab till end; Maghrib Surat Saba. Sunday Dhuhr Surat Fatir, Surat Yaseen till v 22 (Juz 23), till end; Asr Surat as-Saffat.
41st Reading, Qurbani (6.63 Miles) -- 05/30/26
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Monday 05/25/2026, 07 Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 -- Heat
Nahar - Raambagh - Lake Powai - IIT Far Gate - Padmavati Devi - Nana Palshikar - Hiarnandani Hospital - Techno - Main St - Lake Blvd - Overpass - Lake Powai - Raambagh - Nahar.
Time: 0:58:34
Mileage: 5.41 Miles - 8.71 Km
Pace: 10'49"/mile - 6'43"/km
Weather: 31C; Humidity 71%
Weight: 70.1 kg - 154.5 lbsThis night has felt hotter than ever. I woke up twice drenched in sweat, having to change my wet shirt both times. I wake up again at 4am, manage to vaguely rest till 4:30, get up feeling fine.
Another very hot run. But I take it easy enough that this feels manageable. The priority is on energy conservation, regardless of pace, more than ever, comfort is the priority. And again, along familiar roads, but a little longer than last week.
41st Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat Saad, Surat az-Zumar till v 32 (Juz 24); Asr Surat az-Zumar till end, Surat al-Mu'min till v 10; Maghrib Surat al-Mu'min till end.------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 05/27/2026, 09 Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 -- Arafat
Nahar - Raheja Vihar (full) - Saki Vihar - Saki Naka - Andheri Ghatkopar - Asalfa - Khairani Rd - Shangarsh Nagar detour - Nahar.
Time: 0:55:03
Mileage: 5.16 Miles - 8.3 Km
Pace: 10'40"/mile - 6'38"/km
Weather: 30C; HUmidity 70%
Weight: 70.1 kg - 154.5 lbs41st Tilaavat Tuesday Morning Surat Ha-Mim Sajdah till v 47 (Juz 25), till end, Surat ash-Shura; Asr Surat az-Zukhruf, Surat ad-Duha, Surat al-Jathiyah (Juz 26); Maghrib Surat al-Ahqaf.
Yesterday was a bad day. Not feeling well at work, strangely dizzy and cold, I leave early around 12am - but then get stuck in traffic for nearly 1.5 hours!! Then once home, I get a call that our friend Rohan Jain has passed away. Still in an uncomfortable daze, as I attempt to break the news to the crew, I find myself suddenly unable to speak, have to pass on the announcement.
This morning, I wake up around 4am, for once having slept through the night, and vaguely try to sleep again till about 4:30. Fearing exhaustion, and fearing the heat that does not abate, I embark on a cautious run, but feeling better than expected, end up describing a relatively long loop through Raheja Vihar, Saki Naka and Asalfa. I leave later than usual for work at 8am, luckily not facing any traffic. I am increasingly emboldened in my Namaaz in office, finding confidence, and in the evening, return to Mustafa Masjid, where I am able to chant the Takbeer-e-Tashreeq with the assembly. Tomorrow is Eid-ul-Ad'ha.
41st Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat Muhammad, Surat al-Fath; Surat al-Hujurat; Asr Surat Qaf, Surat adh-Dhariyat till v 31 (Juz 27), till end;------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 05/29/2026, 11 Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 -- HEAT
Nahar - Raambagh - Lake Powai - IIT Main Gate - Powai Internal - Hiranandani Hospital - Techno - Central - SM Shetty - Chandivali.
Time: 0:49:28
Mileage: 4.74 Miles - 7.63 Km
Pace: 10'26"/mile - 6'29"/km
Weather: 31C; Humidity 65%
Weight: 70.6 kg - 155.6 lbs41st Tilaavat Thursday Dhuhr Surat at-Tur, Surat an-Najm, Surat al-Qamar, Surat ar-Rahman, Surat al-Waqi'ah, Surat al-Hadid till v 20; Asr Surat al-Hadid till end (Juz 28), Surat al-Mujadilah, Surat al-Hashr; Ishaa Surat al-Mumtahanah, Surat as-Saff, Surat al-Jumu'ah.
Get up at 4:30, after two wake-ups in the night. This stop-and-go sleeping actually suits me best, and I feel much better than yesterday. It is again phenomenally hot, but I feel good once out, finding my breath very well. I head out along familiar Lake Powai, a large bus skirts right by me at great speed, causing me to stop and yell!! Feeling that the heat is starting to affect me (like on the last run, I am carrying a small water bottle), I turn at the Main Gate into the chawl to return, achieving a satisfactory loop, just about the right effort for the day. This heat is to be handled with great caution!
Back home, I am about to cut my nails when GUlzar stops me: She has reversed her decision, and decided to arrange a Qurbani for us through Jamal Malik. At the Masjid, he calls me to the side. We ride on his bike to the shop, from there select my goat. But Pandit Ji not being ready, I go by myself with the goat in an auto-rickshaw, and walk the goat home, bewildering the young woman downstairs. We settle the goat inside the house, as before, the animal is very friendly, and does not accept to be left alone! Very intrigued by its reflection in the mirror, it eventually starts fighting with itself, till we cover the mirror.
41st Tilaavat Morning Surat al-Munafiqun, Surat at-Taghabun, Surat at-Talaq; Before Jummah Surat at-Tahrim (Juz 29), Surat al-Mulk; Asr Surat al-Qalam, Surat al-Haqqah, Surat al-Ma'arij, Surat Nuh, Surat al-Jinn, Surat al-Muzzammil, Surat al-Muddaththir; Surat al-Qiyamah, Surat ad-Dahr, Surat al-Mursalat (Juz 30).------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 05/30/2026, 12 Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 -- Qurbani
Nahar - Raheja Vihar short - Saki Vihar - Marwah - Military - Marol Maroshi - Vijay Nagar Bridge - Road No 16 - Kondivita - Apna Dhaba - Andheri Kurla - Marol CHS - Bridge over Mithi River - Marwah - Chandivali - Mhada - Nahar.
Time: 1:10:26
Mileage: 6.63 Miles - 10.67 Km
Pace: 10'37"/mile - 6'36"/km
Weather: 31C; Humidity 63%
Weight: 70.6 kg - 155.6 lbsThe goat has slept with Gulzar in the hall. When I get up in the middle of the night to get water, I find it standing right behind our door (where usually I'd find our cats)! I do go back to sleep in spite of the stifling heat, and wake up well rested at 4:30. Walking around the Gulzar and the goat, I prepare coffee and proceed with my usual routine of Tilaavat and Fajr ki Namaaz. Gulzar has not slept much.
We are supposed to go to Jamal Malik's around 8am for Qurbani, so I set out early at 6am. Again, it continues to be unbelievably hot and humid, but I manage ok. After constant hesitations, I decide for my old 88 Pictures commute route, through Marwah and Marol, fairly quiet at this early hour, and return along the Metro line, with one final detour on the small bridge over Mithi river. Again, I manage the heat fine, deliberately stopping twice to drink from a small water bottle. Another run which has felt like just the right effort in this climate.
Shortly after my return, we head out to Jamal Malik's house with the goat. We meet Pandit Ji on the way, who's desperately trying to bring a bigger goat, which obstinately refuses to go! We take the goat through the narrow passageways of the Chawl, a few people have gathered at his house. In the passage itself, just outside of his house, our goat is made to lay on its side, and in my name (Noor-Ahmad bin Yussuf), an Imaaam slits its throat, projecting blood on the walls. We later sit for some time, while a butcher, and Jamal Malik himself, cut the meat. One hissa we take for us, leaving the rest for Madrasa children who will recite the Qur'an in Jamal's shop on Monday.
And later in the day, I complete my 41st reading of the Qu'ran.
41st Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat an-Naba, Surat an-Nazi'at, Surat Abasa, Surat at-Takwir, Surat al-Infitar, Surat al-Mutaffifin; Surat al-Inshiqaq, Surat al-Buruj, Surat at-Tariq, Surat al-A'la, Surat al-Ghashiyah, Surat al-Fajr, Surat al-Balad; Asr Surat ash-Shams, Surat al-Lail, Surat adh-Dhuha, Surat al-Inshirah, Surat at-Tin, Surat al-Alaq, Surat al-Qadr, Surat al-Bayyinah, Surat az-Zalzalah, Surat al-'Adiyat, Surat al-Qari'ah, Surat at-Takathur, Surat al-'Asr, Surat al-Humazah, Surat al-Fil, Surat Quraish, Surat al-Ma'un, Surat al-Kauthar, Surat al-Kafirun, Surat an-Nasr, Surat al-Lahab, Surat al-Ikhlaas, Surat al-Falaq, Surat an-Naas;
Surat al-Fatihah, Surat Al-Baqarah till v 5.
Along the JVLR (5.81 Miles) -- 06/07/26
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Monday 06/01/2026, 14 Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 -- A Very Bad Run
Nahar - Raheja Vihar long - Saki Vihar - JVLR - Raambagh - Nahar.
Time: 0:45:09
Mileage: 4.29 Miles - 6.9 Km
Pace: 10'31"/mile - 6'32"/km
Weather: 30C; Humidity 66%
Weight: 70.6 kg - 155.6 lbsYesterday at dawn, I notice that the sky heavy and dark, and hear a faint sound. And during Fajr ki Namaaz, a small storm hits! The first rain, it feels miraculous! But this is too little to abate the heat.
Last night, I slept well, again to multiple episodes of sleep and deep dreams, get up well around 4:40. But paradoxically, this ends up being a bad run. Perhaps because of poor nutrition (no bananas this morning) or the accumulation of heat, I struggle through this, feeling tired, dizzy, nearly nauseous, cut the run relatively short, trying to find a pace that I can manage, which I kind of do, but this is far from pleasant.
42nd Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat al-Fatihah, Surat Al-Baqarah till v 83; Asr Surat Al-Baqarah till v 142 (Juz 2).------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 06/03/2026, 16 Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 -- It has rained
Nahar - Raambagh - Lake Powai - Powai Plaza - Central - SM Shetty - Chandivali.
Time: 0:42:16
Mileage: 4.06 Miles - 6.53 Km
Pace: 10'24"/mile - 6'28"/km
Weather: 29C; Humidity 70%
Weight: 70.6 kg - 155.6 lbs42nd Tilaavat Tuesday Morning Surat Al-Baqarah till v 177; Dhuhr Surat Al-Baqarah till v 217, till v 232; Maghrib Surat Al-Baqarah till v 253 (Juz 3), till v 261.
It must have rained last night! The streets are wet, subtly cooler morning air. Up later at 4:45 (after excellent sleep), I accelerate my morning rituals, to still get out around 6am. The streets are wet, occasional puddles, and the air is subtly fresher. I feel better than the last couple days, enjoy this run run, which I keep relatively short. A brief monsoon storm gathers as I get ready, some rain on the way to work, but it doesn't last, and the heat returns.
I have gained some confidence for Namaaz in office, although the endless back and forth in the corridor just outside I have to adapt to. In some ways, it requires me to strengthen my concentration, as I have to fight harder for it.
42nd Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat Al-Baqarah till end, Surat Ali-Imraan till v 31, till v 64; Asr Surat Ali-Imraan till v 92 (Juz 4), till v 130.------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 06/05/2026, 18 Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 -- HEAT
Nahar - Raheja Vihar full - Saki Vihar - Lake Powai - Rambagh entrance [3.38M - 5.44K]
Caliph Hotel - Raambagh - Nahar [0.82M - 1.32K]
Time: 0:44:42
Mileage: 4.2 Miles - 6.76 Km
Pace: 10'38"/mile - 6'37"/km
Weather: 32C; Humidity 65%
Weight: 70.6 kg - 155.6 lbs42nd Tilaavat Thursday Morning Surat Ali-Imraan till v 156; Dhuhr Surat Ali-Imraan till end, Surat An-Nisaah till v 23; Asr Surat An-Nisaah till v 24 (Juz 5), till v 60.
Another poor run unfortunately! I start ok, well rested, but severely lose steam as I go, feeling increasingly uncomfortable, probably due to the heat, which feels unbearable today, not at all pleasant. This culminates at the entrance of Raambagh where I decide to end this, and walk back home.
But on a sudden inspiration, I decide to explore the side road along the Caliph Hotel, to see if it connects (it doesn't, stops on a dead-end at a wall). Having walked sufficiently to feel sufficiently restored, I run back to Raambagh and complete the run from there.
Later, I go to Husainya Masjid at my usual time. But today I am surprised by a dense crowd! So much that unable to enter the room, I take place outside the door, on the hard floor, where already many have gathered, where I find Jamal Malik, also condemned to exile. It is that some famous Ulama has come to the Masjid to deliver Bayaan, drawing a sizable crowd, and even a video crew! The Namaaz is a little uncomfortable, but I still make the most of it, and take advantage of this otherwise quiet day to advance greatly in my Tilaavat, completing both Surat an-Nisaah and Surat al-Maidah.
42nd Tilaavat Morning Surat An-Nisaah till v 92; Before Jummah Surat An-Nisaah till v 116; After Jummah Surat An-Nisaah till v 148 (Juz 6), till end; Surat al-Maidah till v 44; Asr Surat al-Maidah till v 78; Maghrib Surat al-Maidah till v 83 (Juz 7), till v 109; Ishaa Surat al-Maidah till end.------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 06/06/2026, 19 Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 -- Marwah
Nahar - Raheja Vihar full - Saki Vihar - Marwah - Bamandayapada - Cycling Trail - Cross Saki Vihar - Raheja Vihar short - Chandivali - Nahar.
Time: 0:58:59
Mileage: 5.46 Miles - 8.79 Km
Pace: 10'48"/mile - 6'43"/km
Weather: 30C; Humidity 70%
Weight: 70.6 kg - 155.6 lbsI fear this run today, fearing a mini-collapse like yesterday. But unexpectedly the opposite happens.
I unfortunately wake up around 3:40am, unable to sleep back, ending a great silsila of excellent sleep. It is still extremely hot, the bed is wet with sweat, and a diffuse headache from the pill is weighing me down. I get up nevertheless to my usual routine, around 4:30. I fear today's run, yesterday's unpleasant memory fresh in my mind, to the point where I wonder if I should give up.
But no, I do go. It is still very hot, but I am soon reassured that my breath is better than yesterday. I am much more cautious, taking on an easy rhythm, and carrying this time a bottle of water, which I sip on occasionally. Reassured, I improvise a route that ends up pretty interesting, particularly returning through the odd cycling track that traverses the slums parallel to Marwah - an area I haven't visited in a long time. The run ends up fine, a relief after yesterday, and I have continued to (re)learn Surat al-An'aam.
42nd Tilaavat Asr Surat al-An'aam till v 111 (Juz 8); Ishaa Surat al-An'aam till end.------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 06/07/2026, 20 Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 -- JVLR
Raambagh - JVLR - Saki Vihar - JVLR - Marol Maroshi - Military - Makwana - Marol CHS - Mithri River Bridge - Marwah - Saki Vihar - Chandivali - Mhada - Nahar.
Time: 1:00:49
Mileage: 5.81 Miles - 9.36 Km
Pace: 10'27"/mile - 6.30"/km
Weather: 31C; Humidity 65%
Weight: 71.4 kg - 157.4 lbs (Weight Gain not Surprising)An entirely unexpected run today !!
Yesterday, I felt bad throughout the day, a persistent headache and vague dizziness, which I attribute partly to the heat, partly to the damn pill (which I will now stop taking). I had wrapped my running week like every Saturday, questionning again, given my lack of form, whether I should retire from running.
But today, I wake up with head clear, for once with the alarm, after multiple episodes of sleep, surprisingly energized! As I am realizing my unexpected good form, the idea of running today also takes hold of me with increasing excitement. I decide to go for it, skipping for that my usual stretching, to leave quietly before Gulzar wakes up around 6:10am.
I am vindicated. I indeed feel better than any time this week, quickly finding an acceptable rhythm. It is still very hot, but it doesn't seem to bother me as much. Ambitious, I decide to try a route that had been on my mind: I have noticed on my commute that the JVLR now has a sidewalk of sorts, connecting to the new Metro Station, and wonder whether I could run there. What better day to try this than on Sunday morning, with hardly any activity in the streets?
This works fine, along the outside settlements of tents that have been established there since we moved to Mumbai. I get down at the bridge, choosing to return through Marol, for a good hour loop, my longest run this week. I feel mostly fine, managing heat and effort, occasionally sipping from a single small bottle. What a reverse in fortune!
With this unplanned run, I end up totalling a rare 5 days this week, and over 4 hours.
42nd Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat al-A'raf till v 59; Asr Surat al-A'raf till v 88 (Juz 9), till v 152; Maghrib Surat al-A'raf till end.
-- First day in San Francisco --
Empire Mine Trails, Grass Valley (6.93 Miles) -- 06/18/26
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Tuesday 06/09/2026, 22 Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 -- JVLR, SEEPZ
Nahar - Raambagh - JVLR - Saki Vihar - JVLR - MIDC - Cross Rd C - Vijay Nagar Bridge - Marol Maroshi - Lok Bharti - Marol CHS - Andheri Ghatkopar - Saki Naka - Khairani Rd - Nahar.
Time: 1:10:37
Mileage: 6.52 Miles - 10.49 Km
Pace: 10'50"/mile - 6'44"/km
Weather: 29C; Humidity 74%
Weight: 70.7 kg - 155.8 lbs42nd Tilaavat Monday Dhuhr Surat al-Anfal till v 41 (Juz 10), till end; Asr Surat at-Taubah till v 60.
Yesterday, there were new flare-ups in the Iran war, which looked to compromise are trip, very unsure whether we'll be able to go. I sleep poorly in the night (also because of the heat), but eventually fall asleep, fortunately wake up well around 4:30. As is my tradition, I postpone looking at the news until after Namaaz. Things seem to have calmed down again, it looks like we will be able to leave after all. The situation is still volatile, but I am highly motivated to leave anyway.
In a much better mood, and feeling strangely rested, I embark on this run, which actually ends up repeating my exploration of the JVLR, this time describing a larger loop through MIDC and SEEPZ, totaling over 10 km. I feel quite good, even though I have not taken water today in spite of the heat.
42nd Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat at-Taubah till v 94 (Juz 11), till v 119; Asr Surat at-Taubah till end, Surat Yunus till v 21; Maghrib Surat Yunus till end.------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 06/10/2026, 23 Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 -- DUBAI, SAN FRANCISCO
Travel Mumbai to Dubai to San FranciscoWe travel from Mumbai to SFO. No problems, all quiet in Dubai, the plane is relatively full, airport busy, what a relief given the war situation. Arrival, we rent a car, GUlzar chooses a sports looking KIA (thinking we'll eventually buy a KIA), which I don't like at first but will get accustomed to. We are caught in surprisingly heavy traffic on the way to San Francisco, but reach the hotel without a problem. We go out in the Marina neighborhood, find a local grocery shop where we buy dinner, to which we will return regularly.
42nd Tilaavat Surat Hud till v 6 (Juz 12), till end; Surat Yusuf till v 53 (Juz 13), till end; Surat ar-Ra'd (in the Airplane).------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 06/11/2026, 24 Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 -- SAN FRANCISCOIn the morning, we walk to Crissy fields. A beautiful clear day with no fog, relatively warm, views of the Golden Gate and Alcatraz. On the beach, a man builds balls of sand. Later to Goodwill, we get briefly separated, and I fear what would happen if she got lost in the city, she doesn't even know the hotel name, and her phone doesn't seem to work! But we soon rejoin and walk through Golden Gate Park, again a beautiful day, admiring the plants. For lunch we return to Crissy field, where we sit on the grass next to some event. People imitate us. We later meet Jeremie and Justin at Cecile's house, but feeling tired, leave early.
42nd Tilaavat Maghrib Surat Ibrahim; Surat al-Hijr v 1 (Juz 14), till end.
-- Golden Gate Bridge --
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Friday 06/12/2026, 25 Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 -- SAN FRANCISCOI have not been running, and decide that perhaps I won't on this trip, to stay with her. So in the early morning we go to the Golden Gate Bridge, parking on the SF side. But this does not open till 7am, and unable to pay, I am worried that we will get a ticket. Luckily, I suddenly come up with the idea of driving to the other side where perhaps we will find parking. This works out great! We emerge out of the dense fog on the Marin County side, and find parking there with no problem, the clouds held by the hills, revealing a crystal clear sky (and here no parking fee!). We walk across the bridge, in search of the pack of dolphins we had once seen. She throws coins in the water. We then proceed to the Marin Headlands coastal road, which is now one way through the tunnel, stop on the way to admire some small birds, then park overlooking the bridge, walk down just above it. Here a fence with many locks which intrigue Gulzar, these are for couples is seems. The morning is wonderful. Seals, birds...
We return again to our Grocery shop, and to Crissy Fields for lunch, feed small birds. We then go to Downtown SF to meet someone at Fidelity, offering her a different view of the town, which impresses her as well.------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 06/13/2026, 26 Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 -- GRASS VALLEYWe drive that morning to Grass Valley, without a problem. I do most of the road without using the GPS. We reach Madeleine's house easily, finding her on her bike on the way. Jeremie and Justin join us. We go to a spot on the river. The river has just become swimmable, and with hot temperatures, attracts groups of people, making it very difficult to park on the road (I find immediately, but Jeremie has to park far). We enjoy, letting ourselves drift with the current, but Justin hardly touches the water. In the evening, I invite them all to a Thai Restaurant in Grass Valley.
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Sunday 06/14/2026, 27 Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 -- GRASS VALLEY
Grass Valley - Empire Mine Trails
Time: 1:05:58
Estimated Pace: 10'30"/mile
Estimated Mileage: 6.28 Miles - 10.11 KmTHis is my first run on this trip.
I return to the Empire Mine area, like last time, which is close to Madeleine's house, and offers a beautiful set of trails through the forest, a fairly large area. More or less remembering from last time, after climbing up the street, I enter the trails through Penn Gate, progress towards the visitor center, but turn right at some point through a maze of smaller trails, trying to carefully map my route to not get lost. As the trail continues, I eventually turn back without reaching a particular landmark, again very careful to accurately retrace my steps, eventually reassured when I reach back the main trail. It's a beautiful sunny morning, sunshine filtering through the foliage, deserted at first, but more populated as the morning progresses. At some point, I pass two women on horses, who scold me gently for not having "announced myself". It has been a great run, the dry relatively cool air make it much more pleasant than running in Mumbai.
Later, groceries shopping, then Pizza for lunch with Jeremie and Justin, who in the afternoon take Terra to a play (La Cage aux Folles, strangely), while we stay home - an opportunity for Madeleine to work on her paintings and me to advance the Tilaavat, which I am trying to maintain as I can on the trip. Similarly, I do pray Namaaz as I can, with relative success. While Madeleine is working, we talk at length, a welcome conversation. After Jeremie returns, we go to the park, where they briefly play Tennis but renounce due to the heat. Jeremie and Justin leave tonight.
42nd Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat an-Nahl till v 90; Asr Surat an-Nahl till end (Juz 15).------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday 06/15/2026, 28 Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 -- GRASS VALLEYI wake up poorly today, perhaps due to overly strong coffee, a tenacious mental fog that unfortunately will not dissipate throughout the day. We run some errands in the morning, then to the swimming pool (at Terra's request) which is a bit crowded. I hope the water will wake me up, but still I am not able to shake up that dreadful mental weariness. To make matters worse, I agree to take Gulzar to Goodwill, but the wait there, which I spend sitting in a chair trying to sleep like a very old man, only makes things worse. Back home around 5 or 6, I finally do go to sleep, and luckily am able to sleep at night as well.
-- Along the Yuba River --
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Tuesday 06/16/2026, 29 Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 -- GRASS VALLEY
Empire Mine Trails
Time: 1:08:24
Estimated Pace: 10'30"/mile
Estimated Mileage: 6.51 Miles - 10.48 KmThis is my second run in Grass Valley.
I head out again to the beautiful Empire Mine trails, a wonderful area within running distance of Madeleine's home, after a short climb on the road, enter through Penn Gate. Today, after taking a look at the map, I decide to explore the area beyond the visitor's center, taking small trails that eventually lead me across a remote paved road, to more small trails in deep forest. Eventually, I turn back, and like last time, adventurously retrace my steps, careful to not get lost. Again, weather is beautiful, appropriately cool, wonderful scents in the forest, and at times a sense of wonder and reclusion. An excellent run, prelude to an excellent day. I feel much much better than yesterday!!
Later in the morning, I leave Gulzar at a large Thrift store, while I take Terra shopping at Target (Gulzar's phone hasn't been working, which continues to constrain how much we can separate). In the afternoon, we return to the Yuba river, this time a different spot, a little more remote, accessed via a rolling trail through the forest along the river. Unlike two years ago, this spot is swimmable, and we enjoy the fresh water. There are several nude men, and fewer nude women here, to Gulzar's amazement (and even mine), generally older men. They engage with us very freely, even though we are clearly not nudists. Another man (wearing clothes) keeps coming to us to share various things, particuraly his rock collection, at first Madeleine and I consider him suspiciously as he engages with Terra, but we then realize he talks like this to everyone. As the sun declines, we get ready to leave, one of the nudists approaches us with Mosquito Spray, which we decline. But like two years ago, I get badly bitten on the way back, which will develop into a small infection in the coming days. As we walk back, the warm sunlight is retreating over the treeline on the opposite river bank, a shrinking band of color. I have felt particularly excellent today, in sharp contrast with the day before. 42nd Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat al-Isra; Maghrib Surat al-Kahf till v 45.
-- Along the Yuba River --
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Wednesday 06/17/2026, 01 Muharram 1448 -- GRASS VALLEYToday we go to another spot on the Yuba river. This is accessed through a narrow steep road (which used to be unpaved). Like yesterday, we opt to walk past the first water holes where most people have stopped, finding a craggy trail that weaves up and down along the deeply forested river bank. We eventually stop at a water spot, finding shade under a small tree (after passing through the "magical ladybug place"). Only one couple is there at first, and we enjoy a calm pool of water, although quite deep. Like yesterday, relatively big fish right by us. A man appears, starts peddling for gold on the river. We return again as the light starts to decline, along the majestic forested cliffs that border the river. An excellent day.
42nd Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat al-Kahf till v 75 (Juz 16), till v 83; Asr Surat al-Kahf till end.------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 06/18/2026, 02 Muharram 1448 -- GRASS VALLEY
Empire Mine Trails
Time: 1:12:46
Estimated Pace: 10'30"/mile
Estimated Mileage: 6.93 Miles - 11.15 KmThis is my third run in Grass Valley.
Again, I visit the Empire Mine Trails, which seems like a never-ending treasury for runners. It has rained lightly in the night, leaving variable cloudiness in the morning with beautiful sun breaks. Yesterday, while taking GUlzar on a walk here, we sat along a trail that I plan to explore today.
This veers into the deeper woods, sort of right from the main trail, gently ascending until it eventually reaches a small house by a road. Strangely, that road is fenced out, and run down along it for some time, before turning back as I am about to reach some other house. This all feels quite remote, although I do cross occasional people as the morning progresses. I retrace my steps with success, for another very pleasant and successful run. Again, the climate here is much much more conducive to running than in Mumbai (although I still return fairly sweaty). In the streets on the way back, funnily, I get barked by a dog, to which I respond with my usual DÉH! exclamation, like I would in India, much to the surprise of the owner, who luckily holds the dog tightly.
The day is otherwise fairly quiet, but in the late afternoon, we go to the Grass Valley Fair to set up Madeleine's stall, and help her sell. Gulzar has brought a large suitcase of clothes from India, which she hopes to sell as well, but those don't do well. Madeleine however has an excellent day, selling well. We finish past 10pm, very happy with the event.
42nd Tilaavat Morning Surat Maryam, Surat Ta-Ha till v 55; Afternoon Surat Ta-Ha till end (Juz 17).------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 06/19/2026, 03 Muharram 1448 -- GRASS VALLEY, JUNCTION CITY
Empire Mine Trails
Time: 1:03:09
Estimated Pace: 10'30"/mile
Estimated Mileage: 6.01 Miles - 9.68 KmMy fourth and last run in Grass Valley, again in the Empire Mine area.
I start this like yesterday, taking that new found trail to the isolated house, but this time attempt to return by a loop. This ends up working out, and as I explore my way back, I start recognizing some landmarks from my first run here, and indeed eventually reconnect back to the main trail. This has worked out perfectly, and could become a classic loop on future trips, very pleasing course through deep woods with little affluence. I add a final exploration as I am about to reach back, following a small trail with a sign to "Stacey Lane" before reaching the parking lot, which I hope will connect back to the urban roads below. This indeed works out, also destined to become my preferred route rather than running on the paved road with traffic to access the Penn Gate entrance. The weather is partly cloudy and pleasant, it has rained lightly in the night, and even though this is the second day running in a row, I feel excellent.
Later, we drive North to first stop in Redding where we meet Ian in the Walmart parking lot. He has come in an former ambulance, quite big inside, in which they will sleep during our stay. Madeleine has warned me about Ian's beard condition (where patches of it have gone bald), but having omitted to repeat this to Gulzar, her first words are: "What happened to your beard?". This is actually surely better than saying nothing, which feels equally awkward. Then, leaving Madeleine's car parked in the streets of Redding, we drive along a spectacular road through Shasta and Trinity counties, by a big lake and through gentle mountain passes, to the Trinity Jam Festival near tiny Junction City. We stop for hamburgers before arriving, which unfortunately takes an excruciatingly long time, causing to arrive at night fall. Gulzar and I are let into the festival without problem, but with light declining, we struggle a little to find a good place for our tent, especially since Ian keeps spotting growths of poison oak, to which his daughter is highly allergic. We eventually set up tent in an open space close to the festival ground. We sleep very well, as often in the tent.
-- At the Trinity Jam Festival --
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Saturday 06/20/2026, 04 Muharram 1448 -- JUNCTION CITYI have gotten up around 5am, way before anyone else, to a magical feeling of waking up in nature. In the night, gone out to pee, I am struck by the detailed starry sky, a magnificent vision with the Milky Way, and I realize there how long it has been that I have not seen such a glorious night sky (for some reason, in India, even away from Mumbai, the Milky Way isn't so visible). Luckily, my morning solitude prolongs for some time, and I am able to perform all my habitual rituals - Coffee, Namaaz, and even Tilaavat Qur'an - before the camp starts to stir to life. This has been a magical morning for me!
The festival is good. Madeleine has again set up her stall. THere is occasional live music, to which Gulzar and I occasionally move our bodies among others laid back dancers. We visit other stalls, Gulzar buys something from a lady in the mystic stall next to us. We eat our own salad. The day goes by peacefully and nicely. At night, the live music picks up, eventually, Gulzar and I retreat to the tent, strangely, we're able to sleep well in spite of the music which continues well into the early morning.
42nd Tilaavat Morning Surat al-Anbiya; Asr Surat al-Hajj (Juz 18).------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 06/21/2026, 05 Muharram 1448 -- JUNCTION CITY, Drive to SFI wake up surprisingly well again, a little less early, but still with a wonderful sense of solitude, which like yesterday I put to good use for my morning rituals, chief of which Namaaz and Tilavaat, which contrary to my fears, I am still able to advance. I feel quite good, have slept well, in spite of the loud music that has continued till around 3am. The festival continues to be relatively calm, laid back, but still Madeleine doesn't sell much. Finally GUlzar has her 1st sale with one of the tapestries. We plan to leave after lunch, I finally look up the road, realize it's about a 5 hour drive (I had thought 3 for whatever reason). So we hasten a bit, and leave around 2h30, after our last lunch with them (and the only one from a vendor).
We start by the beautiful drive back to Redding, then the monotonous nondescript long stretch of I-5. The drive regains interest when we cut towards Sausalito to return via the Golden Gate, a beautiful stretch on the bay as the day gradually declines. Gulzar wants to stop on the Bridge to throw her coins, but I am unable to find a way to the Parking from that direction, so I promise to bring her back tomorrow morning before leaving. We arrive back at the Lombard Plaza Motel at dusk, walk to that same grocery shop for a pasta dinner in the room.
42nd Tilaavat Fajr Surat al-Mu'minun till "Alima ghaibi wa shadati wa taala Amma yushrikun"; Morning Surat al-Mu'minun till end;
-- At the Trinity Jam Festival --
Crissy Field, Return to Mumbai (8.33 Miles) -- 06/27/26
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Monday 06/22/2026, 06 Muharram 1448 -- SAN FRANCISCO, Leave to Dubai
Lombard plaza motel - Crissy fields
Time: 0:53:04
Estimated Pace: 10'30"/mile
Estimated Mileage: 5.05 Miles - 8.13 KmMy last run in the US. We leave back today.
Gulzar is the one who pushes me to run this morning, in anticipation of the long trip ahead. So in spite of waking up a little later, I do, my first (and only) run in San Franscisco, exceptionally without taking the time to perform stretching. Needless to say, I head to Crissy fields, and near the bridge. It is foggy and cool, excellent weather for running. Many runners here. I don't want to make this too long, but I do manage to run the entire field to the visitor center near the base of the bridge, passing a pier with many fishermen. This gives me the idea of bringing GUlzar here later, rather than back on the bridge. My running again feels good, as it has all this trip.
Later, after packing, we leave the hotel, and as promised, return to Crissy Field near Fort Point, where Gulzar performs a dance resembling the video that Jeremie has sent us, and we throw her coins on the Pier. Then, one final trip to Goodwill on Haight, during which while casually chatting at the nearby Wells Fargo Bank, I find out the my accounts are in danger of being closed (!) if I don't establish my residency in the US. Upsetting, and too late for me to do anything on this trip!! We drive to the airport, return the rental, with ample time. A small incident at the security: We are sent back for so-called "spelling discrepancies" in both our boarding passes, the airline though finding no mistake re-issues the same boarding passes, and we are able to go through with no problem. We board the plane, sit down for the long flight. I have found no movie of interest on this trip. I am however able to advance the Tilaavat Qur'an, perhaps making up for the lost days in the US.
42nd Tilaavat Surat an-Nur, Surat al-Furqan till v 21 (Juz 19), till end, Surat ash-Shu'ara (in airplane).------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 06/23/2026, 07 Muharram 1448 -- DUBAI, in the planeA long 7.5 hours layover in Dubai. We arrive greeted by the Adhaan for Ishaa, which I pray in Masjid, as well as the other missed Namaaz while in flight. Once we have tired of looking at the shops, Gulzar falls asleep in a reclining chair, while I, freshly awakened by a good coffee, progress quite a bit on my Tilaavat. Eventually we board the plane for a shorter final flight to Mumbai. A new form (always some new form) has to be filled by both of us due to the Ebola outbreak.
Ishaa Surat an-Naml till v 45 (in Dubai); Night Surat an-Naml till v 60 (Juz 20), till end; Surat al-Qasas (in Dubai).------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 06/24/2026, 08 Muharram 1448 -- Back in MUMBAIWe land in the morning. Back home very easily. Rains have started.
42nd Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat al-Ankabut till v 45 (Juz 21); Asr Surat al-Ankabut till end; Maghrib Surat ar-Rum.------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 06/25/2026, 09 Muharram 1448 -- MUMBAI
Nahar - Raambagh - JVLR - Saki Vihar - Back Lake Powai - IIT Far Gate - Padmavati Devi - Nana Palshikar -
Time: 1:10:29
Mileage: 6.45 Miles - 10.38 Km
Pace: 10'55"/mile - 6'47"/km
Weather: 27C; Humidity 84%
Weight: 69.7 kg - 153.6 lbsYesterday afternoon's deep sleep, frustration. But I do ok, Maghrib and Tilaavat, in bed after 8pm. Many wake-ups, abundant pee, but fall back asleep relatively easily (resume reading le Memorial de St Helene). Up again at 3:40, in spite of a strong headache, get up at 4am. Advil, Tilaavat, Namaaz, the headache dissipates, and I feel surprisingly good (mood in contrast with yesterday).
This is confirmed on the run. It has rained abundantly, roads very wet, but only light intermittent rain on the run (carry a cap, which I keep mostly in hand). I feel surprisingly good, good breath, and hardly any stiffness. Extend the run along an easy route. Lower temperature and light rain helps, much more pleasant to run than before we left. Along the lake, back via Hiranandani, feel surprisingly good. As I had hoped, I have indeed lost weight in the US, good news.
Extraordinarily, I feel very good throughout the day, and strangely without sleeping even once! I go to bed a little after 8pm, skipping only Ishaa ki Namaaz.
42nd Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat Luqman, Surat as-Sajdah; Asr Surat al-Ahzab till v 31 (Juz 22), till end;------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 06/27/2026, 11 Muharram 1448 -- Kurla
Nahar - Chandivali - Mahindra Alcove - Saki Naka - Magan Nathuram - LBS Marg - Air India, to Mithi River Bridge & Back - LBS Marg - to Metro Line - Andheri Ghatkopar - Khairani Rd - Shangarsh Nagar - Nahar.
Time: 1:31:35
Mileage: 8.33 Miles - 13.4 Km
Pace: 10'59"/mile - 6'50"/km
Weather: 29C; Humidity 77%
Weight: 70.1 kg - 154.5 lbs42nd Tilaavat Friday Morning Surat Saba till v 31; After Jummah Surat Saba till end, Surat Fatir; Asr Surat Yaseen till v 22 (Juz 23), till end; Surat as-Saffat till v 114;
Again, many many wake-ups during the night, and abundant pee, and many dreams. Frustrating, but it allows me to advance in St Helene (which I had set aside during the trip), and luckily I sleep back again each time to many dreams. We both get up at 4am feeling fresh.
It has rained some in the night, but the morning is to pleasant variable clouds, clean air. I get out at 6 feeling quite good, decide to attempt a somewhat longer run in the Kurla area. I do feel generally in control, in spite of moments of weakess which I manage. I push to the Air India road, but wisely turn back at the Mithi River, to return via LBS Marg, which for some reason appeals to me today. At a cautious pace (quite slow actually), I manage the return. The run gets lengthened as I miss the entrance to the jogging path (has it been closed by some construction?), and end up returning along the Metro line. I manage ok, but this is about as much as I could handle right now, perhaps slightly too much. Still, given that I have just returned from the US, this is rather remarkable. To my great surprise, when I do the stats, I realize that this has been my longest run so far this season! This was not at all intended...
42nd Tilaavat Dhuhr Surat as-Saffat till end, Surat Saad; Asr Surat az-Zumar till v 32 (Juz 24), till end.
42nd Tilaavat Sunday Dhuhr Surat al-Mu'min; Asr Surat Ha-Mim Sajdah till v 47 (Juz 25), till end.
-- Last day in San Francisco, Crissy Field --